Carla Conti, an award-winning author and Ambler resident, is releasing her newest narrative true-crime story, The Jacklighter: Murder, Betrayal, and Justice in Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains, later this year. The book centers on the infamous Scher-Dillon murder case of 1976 and its twisted aftermath.

The Jacklighter focuses on the life of Martin Dillon, a 30-year-old Pennsylvania attorney who was shot and killed by his best friend, Dr. Stephen Scher. Scher then married Dillon’s widow, whom he’d had an affair with, and lived a “stolen life” for 20 years. Conti examines the cover-up, investigation, and pursuit of justice after the murder. According to Conti, her novel reveals a never-before-publicized secret about the case. An excerpt of the book can be found on her blog here: A murder 50 years ago Today. Who Was Marty Dillon?

Along with her newest book, Conti has published the true crime novel Chained Birds, which examines life and corruption inside the U.S. federal prison system. She also teaches a writer’s workshop and posts short pieces frequently on her blog.

“The Jacklighter” has a tentative release date for October 2026. Interested readers can pre-order the eBook on Conti’s website: The Jacklighter & Chained Birds | Carla Conti.

Photo – Carla Conti