In researching his Albany, New York roots, he wanted to verify his father's remark that his grandfather was famous. James used his research and writing skills acquired in twenty-one years in the Air Force, to seek the truth. He spent twelve years piecing together the story that led to the remark and wrote a story on his discovery.
Based on declassified FBI files and trial transcripts he wrote his first book entitled, "Kidnapping the Prince of Albany". The untold details of events that led notorious mobsters to kidnap John O'Connell, Jr. Personifying "The Hanging Judge", a political Kingpin exacts his revenge for the kidnapping.
His extensive research was too much for one book so he put additional information on his website at www.albanyoconnell.com
After reading the story, Ted Reed, a reporter for The Street.com commented on the book: "For readers interested in a good yarn about a famous Albany crime...you have found the right book."