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Whatever It Takes
Whatever It Takes is a gritty and fast-paced crime thriller that follows Fort Worth detective Kit Hanover as she’s recruited by the FBI to go undercover in a seedy Las Vegas nightclub to take down an organized crime ring involved in money laundering and murder. Posing as a cocktail server and as an exotic dancer, Kit is thrust into a world of danger, deception, and personal reckoning. As she navigates the murky underworld of the Pink Kitten club and balances the threat of a powerful crime boss, Kit must rely on her instincts, strength, and sheer will to survive and gather enough evidence to bring justice to the victims.
Alan Brenham writes with a sharp edge and a deep understanding of the law enforcement world. The dialogue pops with realism, sometimes brutal, sometimes darkly funny. The pacing is relentless, pulling me through each scene with a white-knuckled grip. Kit is not your standard heroine. She’s tough but wounded, confident but struggling with demons, and her complexity made me root for her even harder. Her backstory, especially her strained ties to her heritage and her late adoptive father, added a real sense of weight to her choices. What really got me was the emotional toll the assignment took on her, especially the moments she doubted herself but still pushed forward.
Some of the setup sections, like the training and prep, felt a tad drawn out, but they did add to the realism. The way Kit’s moral boundaries were constantly tested gave the story tension, and I found myself questioning what I’d do in her place. There’s a lot of emotional complexity packed in here—anger, fear, pride, loneliness—and Brenham doesn’t shy away from the sleazier, more uncomfortable parts of undercover work. The club scenes are drenched in smoke, sweat, and that sense of being watched, and you can almost feel Kit’s skin crawl as she tries to keep her cover intact. It’s not just about the mission—it’s about survival. And Kit never stops being human in the face of it all.
Whatever It Takes delivers more than just a suspenseful plot. It’s a raw, character-driven ride into the underbelly of crime, power, and sacrifice. I’d recommend this book to fans of strong female leads, undercover cop dramas, and noir-style storytelling. If you liked Donnie Brasco or The Departed, this one’s for you. Just be ready to ride the emotional roller coaster. Kit Hanover is a great character, and Brenham makes you feel every step of her journey.
Pages: 350 | ASIN : B0F8C2QFHB
Breaking Silence
In Breaking Silence, by Alan Brenham, sisters Claire and Megan Deveraux initially dismiss a mysterious message from “AMZ” as a scam. However, as evidence suggesting the existence of a forgotten sibling mounts, Claire begins to question their skepticism. Their pursuit of the truth leads them into a dangerous chase involving a relentless blackmailer and a secretive victim determined to protect his hidden past. Spanning from the charm of Paris to the tranquility of a Texas suburb, this intense thriller uncovers a decades-old enigma with global ramifications.
This book is a riveting thriller that expertly blends intrigue with deep, character-driven storytelling. One of its most compelling aspects is the authenticity of its characters, particularly Claire and Megan Deveraux. Brenham depicts these sisters with remarkable nuance and depth, making them feel like real individuals ensnared in a gripping mystery. Their vividly portrayed personalities and emotionally resonant interactions make their journey both captivating and relatable, enhancing overall engagement with the story.
Brenham’s writing style further elevates the narrative. His prose is sharp and evocative, skillfully capturing the tension and urgency of the plot while also providing lush, detailed descriptions that bring the settings to life. The contrast between the glamorous, bustling streets of Paris and the tranquil, subdued Texan suburbia is vividly rendered, adding layers of atmosphere to the story. This dichotomy enhances the reader’s immersion in both the high-stakes action and the quieter, more intimate moments. The plot is intricately woven, with each twist and turn contributing to a larger, suspenseful puzzle. Brenham’s methodical revelation of information keeps readers on the edge of their seats, making the stakes feel incredibly high. The suspense builds effectively, maintaining a strong sense of momentum throughout. I do feel there are moments where the pacing slows slightly. These sections, while rich in character development and plot detail, seem to lack the brisk rhythm of the rest of the narrative–a pace that keeps readers on their toes.
Breaking Silence, by Alan Brenham, is a compelling thriller that masterfully combines intricate plotting with rich, character-driven storytelling. Despite occasional pacing issues, its authentic characters, evocative writing, and high-stakes suspense make it a memorable and engaging read. Fans of intense, well-crafted mysteries will find much to appreciate in this gripping novel.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0D8G3T6YD
The Jason Scarsdale Series
In No More Lies, a lawyer becomes the prime suspect in a crime she didn’t commit when her husband goes missing on a trip to Washington, DC. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for this story came from a case I represented in court in which the husband went missing. The police found the husband dead and arrested the wife.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
The one experience which had the biggest impact on my writing was the arrest of two police officers for false accounts of a felony-level crime.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I plan the tone and direction of the story then flesh it out organically.
Is there a fourth book planned in the series? If so, where will it take readers?
At this time, I am not planning on a fourth book in the Jason Scarsdale series.
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Dani Mueller thought a trip to Washington, DC, with her husband, Jason Scarsdale, would be a last-ditch effort to mend their crumbling marriage. But when Jason vanishes after a job interview, Dani finds herself not just fighting for her marriage, but for her life. Accused of a murder she didn’t commit, she becomes the prime suspect in a case that turns into Detective Floyd Hatchett’s personal vendetta.
Out on bond and with the walls closing in, Dani has no choice but to flee across the Atlantic to London. There, she embarks on a relentless quest for the one person who can clear her name. Her investigation uncovers clues that lead her to a US Army base in Germany, but Detective Hatchett is hot on her heels, determined to bring her down.
In a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, Dani must navigate through a labyrinth of betrayal, hidden agendas, and dark secrets. Will she manage to prove her innocence, or will she become the victim of a merciless frame-up? Time is running out, and Dani Mueller is a woman with everything to lose.
Never Say A Word (The Claire Deveraux series Book 2)
Never Say a Word, the second installment in The Claire Deveraux series by Alan Brenham, delivers a gripping blend of suspense and psychological thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story ignites a political storm when Claire Deveraux, a deaf employee of the U.S. Embassy in France, is abducted during a conference in Rome. Her kidnapper, Franco Lazzari, a wealthy pharmacist with a distorted view of reality, believes Claire is the perfect replacement for his late spouse. Claire’s journey is a testament to her resilience and ingenuity. Stranded in Lazzari’s secluded Italian countryside home, she must navigate her escape despite her inability to hear. Her vulnerability is palpable, yet her determination shines through, making her a compelling and strong protagonist who refuses to be a victim.
Brenham skillfully delves into the minds of his characters, offering a chilling exploration of Lazzari’s psyche. Lazzari’s obsessive-compulsive disorder and his disconnection from reality create a disturbing yet fascinating portrait of a psychopath. His twisted justification for his actions adds depth to his character, making him a formidable antagonist. The narrative is dynamic, shifting perspectives between Claire, Franco, and Megan, which adds layers to the story and maintains a brisk pace. The short chapters and straightforward language ensure the plot never lags, with escape attempts and confrontations providing intense, pulse-pounding moments. Claire Deveraux continues to evolve as a character, standing out as a strong, independent woman who takes charge of her fate. Her refusal to wait passively for rescue and her resourcefulness and bravery distinguish this novel from typical police procedurals. The focus remains on Claire’s struggle for survival rather than the police’s efforts. Brenham captures the raw emotion and desperation of Claire’s situation, culminating in a powerful and satisfying conclusion.
Never Say a Word is a fast-paced, action-packed read that can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel despite being part of a series. Brenham’s storytelling is sure to captivate fans of suspense and thrillers, as well as shows like “You” or “Gypsy.” This book is a testament to the strength of its heroine and the dark complexities of its villain, making it a highly recommended read.
Alan Brenham has crafted a thrilling narrative that combines psychological depth with relentless suspense. Never Say a Word stands out for its strong, resourceful protagonist and its chillingly complex antagonist. It’s a novel that not only entertains but also resonates with the strength of its characters and the intensity of its plot. A must-read for fans of the genre.
Pages: 274 | ASIN : B0CJLYPN4R
Price of Justice-The Jason Scarsdale Series
Alan Brenham’s Pride of Justice is a gripping thriller that masterfully intertwines suspense, mystery, and legal drama. Brenham’s background as a law enforcement officer and attorney infuses the narrative with a sense of authenticity and realism, crafting a compelling story that captures the reader’s attention from the outset.
The plot centers on Detective Jason Scarsdale, a dedicated investigator who relentlessly pursues justice while grappling with personal struggles. His life becomes more complicated when he encounters Dani Mueller, a determined and enigmatic woman seeking her own form of justice. Their uneasy alliance forms the crux of the story as they work to solve a complex murder case, unearthing a labyrinth of dark secrets, deceit, and corruption. Brenham’s character development stands out. Scarsdale is portrayed as a complex individual, battling internal demons and moral dilemmas that give him depth and relatability. Dani Mueller is equally intriguing, with her secretive nature and personal vendetta keeping readers hooked and curious about her true motives. Their interactions are charged with tension and mutual distrust, adding another layer of complexity to the narrative. The plot is well-constructed, with carefully placed twists and turns that maintain the tension and pace. Brenham’s knowledge of investigative procedures adds gratifying credibility to the story through his meticulous attention to detail.
Pride of Justice offers a sophisticated exploration of justice, morality, and the lengths people will go to protect those they love. Fans of the genre will eagerly anticipate Brenham’s next work.
Pages: 348 | ASIN : B0CGPVL81Y
No More Lies (The Jason Scarsdale Series Book 3)
Alan Brenham’s thriller No More Lies dives into a web of deception, betrayal, and suspense that captivates from the first page. The story unfurls with Dani Mueller, a lawyer whose life spirals into chaos when her husband, Jason, disappears under mysterious circumstances. Packed with unexpected twists, the narrative delves into the complexities of trust and truth within a marriage shadowed by tragedy.
Brenham’s prose is crisp and engaging, making it easy to get lost in the unfolding drama. His ability to craft multi-dimensional characters, particularly Dani, whose resilience and sharp mind are as compelling as they are believable, stands out. While I enjoyed the story, I felt that the pacing occasionally felt rushed, especially during key revelations that made me yearn for more.
The novel’s exploration of grief and its impact on personal relationships adds a deeper layer to the mystery. Brenham handles the sensitive topic with nuance, presenting it not just as a backdrop but as a catalyst for the unfolding events. This approach enriches the characters’ motivations, especially as the plot veers into the darker territories of the human psyche.
No More Lies concludes on a note that is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving readers to ponder the moral implications of the characters’ choices. This ending is a testament to Brenham’s skill in not only plotting a gripping mystery but also in sparking deeper reflection.
I recommend this book to fans of psychological thrillers and anyone interested in stories that probe the complexities of human relationships under stress. Brenham’s blend of suspenseful narrative and emotional depth will particularly appeal to readers who appreciate character-driven mysteries.
Pages: 321 | ASIN : B0CLYSJXWD
Life-Changing Moments
Every Silent Thing follows a shy and deaf twenty-three-year-old woman working in the U.S. Embassy in Paris who discovers a gunshot victim in the bathroom, where she is given a mysterious thumb drive. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for Every Silent Thing involves several avenues: Claire and Megan’s characters were derived from my identical twin nieces. Having lived in Europe for a few years, I wanted to use a European setting for the story. Another niece had spent considerable time touring Paris (a city I never had the chance to include in my journeys) so with her support, I created the Paris settings. My own hearing impairment gave rise to exploring deafness in a fictional story. Desiring a deaf woman as my protagonist, I consulted a deaf female author I knew from Canada to obtain her perspective on deafness.
Claire is a young and excited woman who is starting her dream job in Paris when everything changes in a moment. Do you think there’s a single moment in everyone’s life, maybe not as traumatic, that is life-changing?
I absolutely do believe in life-changing moments, having had several such moments in my own life – traumatic and non-traumatic.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes of importance to me in the creation of Every Silent Thing were mistaken identity, the family dynamic, sibling love, a Phoenix Rising theme for both Claire and Megan, and personal growth.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Claire and the direction of the second book?
The second in the trilogy, Never Say A Word, is the story of a fanatical Italian millionaire’s kidnapping scheme to make Claire his wife. The story is set in Rome, Italy, and Paris, France, and involves themes of Stockholm syndrome, sibling love, mistaken identity, and aberrant behavior. The third book in the trilogy, Breaking Silence, will be released this summer.
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LITERARY TITAN 