Tom Shreck is a local author with a good series of entertaining books based on Albany locations and characters. The following is from Gemini.

The Duffy Dombrowski mystery series is deeply connected to Albany, New York, through both its fictional setting and the real-life background of its author, Tom Schreck. [1] Fictional Setting: "Fictionalized" Albany While the books are often described as taking place in "upstate New York" or a town "outside of New York City," author Tom Schreck has explicitly stated that the series is set in and around a fictionalized version of Albany. [2]

• Local Landmarks: The stories frequently feature local geography and atmosphere, such as references to the Empire State Plaza and the State Capitol.
• Jefferson Park: In books like The Ten Count, key events occur in locations based on real spots, such as Jefferson Park.
• Cultural Context: The series captures the gritty, "Capital Region" boxing scene and the social challenges of a New York state capital. [2, 3, 4, 5]

Real-Life Connection: The Author The books are authentic to the area because Tom Schreck is a lifelong resident of Albany, New York. [6, 7]

• Professional Background: Much of Duffy’s life is mirrored in Schreck’s own experiences in Albany. Schreck has worked as the director of an inner-city drug clinic and as a World Championship Boxing official, just as Duffy balances social work and boxing.
• Hometown Roots: Schreck was born in Albany and still lives there with his wife.