Santa Rosa-based author Scott Lipanovich discusses his Jeff Taylor mystery series and his highly anticipated new novel, West County. Scott delves into his creative journey, sharing how a high school creative writing class sparked his passion and how the unique landscapes and culture of West Sonoma County became the perfect backdrop for his mysteries. The conversation explores Scott's writing process–the challenges of plot development and the inspirations behind complex characters like the transformed PI-turned-doctor Jeff Taylor, the mysterious Edwina Siba (inspired by Armstrong Woods redwoods), and the local "West County ecosystem" they inhabit. Hear how real-life Sonoma County locations, such as Ives Park and the Luther Burbank Experiment Farm, are woven into his fictional world, and get a sneak peek at Scott’s upcoming projects.

The setting of the novel West County got us inspired to find a beer that mirrors the book's natural scenery. Look no further than "Giant Lands," a West Coast Double IPA from Fieldwork Brewing Company. In addition to Fieldwork being a Bay Area staple, it also ties nicely to local Sonoma County news, as the brewery recently opened a new outpost in Montgomery Village in Santa Rosa. Giant Lands, at 8.5% ABV, is a "big" brew perfect for December, featuring significant pine, grapefruit, and tangerine aromas that evoke the feeling of exploring the redwood forests depicted in the novel. 

Featured Guest:

Scott Lipanovich

Featured Beer:

Fieldwork Brewing Company’s Giant Lands

Books by Scott Lipanovich

• The Lost Coast (July 2021) 

• The Golden Ceiling (July 2022) 

• Sky Lake, (July 2023)

• West County

Real-World Locations in Sonoma County

• Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve (Guerneville, CA)

• Ives Park (Sebastopol, CA)

• Luther Burbank Experiment Farm (Sebastopol, CA)

• Sunspot (formerly Ocean Song)

• Sebastopol Center for the Arts (Sebastopol, CA)

• Calder Street (Sebastopol, CA area)

Where to Purchase West County

• Poet’s Corner Bookshop

• Copperfield’s Books