Blog Archives
There’s No Cure for Impossible
Carolyn Summer Quinn’s There’s No Cure for Impossible presents a captivating tale centered around Selena Lawrence, a news industry professional grappling with the fallout of her past relationships. The story kicks off with Selena discovering that her former boyfriend-loving, drama-prone friend Mila is embroiled in scandalous headlines. Anticipating a plea for help from Mila, Selena tries to distance herself from the impending chaos. However, her attempts to stay away are futile, as she finds herself increasingly entangled in Mila’s web of complications. The pressing question becomes whether Selena can break free from Mila’s toxic influence before it’s too late.
Quinn excels in creating detailed and unique characters, each with their own compelling narrative. Selena, the protagonist, is vividly portrayed, eliciting empathy from the reader as she navigates her dilemma. The portrayal of Mila, a magnet for drama, adds layers of tension, while the dynamic news crew injects further intrigue and excitement into the plot. The novel’s tone strikes a perfect balance between upbeat and suspenseful, maintaining a pace that keeps readers fully engaged. Quinn’s storytelling shines through in memorable scenes—from Selena’s desperate hideout in a hotel to the riveting moments when the news crew uncovers her connection to Mila. The book is packed with drama and surprises, culminating in a shocking conclusion that defies expectations.
There’s No Cure for Impossible is a thoroughly enjoyable read, with no shortage of excitement or twists. Quinn’s adept character development and gripping narrative make this novel a standout. I eagerly anticipate more works from this talented author.
Pages: 170 | ASIN : B0D8KJJRMB
Not Going to Jail
Framed for Murder follows a cat burglar framed for murder who seeks help from an old acquaintance now running a B&B in a small mountain town. What inspired the setup of your story?
Two weird coincidences, actually. Poppy started out as a nameless character in the first book of the series, “The Starlight Mint Surprise Murder”. My editor said she’d like to see her in the next book and it was already in my head to do it, so it seemed like kismet.
Real life inspired the opening scene. My friend and I were staying at a nice hotel along the coast six or seven floors up, but the drop to the ground was a lot further because the resort was built on a hillside. In the middle of the night, a stranger parkoured across our balcony and just kept going. It was so bizarre I knew I had to use it in a book!
Mel and Poppy are old adversaries from Mel’s previous life as a police officer. What inspired the characters and their relationship?
I’ve always loved stories where enemies have to work together toward a goal and find out they’re not so different after all. From “Toy Story” to “Terminator 2” to “Pirates of the Caribbean” or “Good Omens”, it’s always such a fun dynamic when the two become friends. (Jack Sparrow and Crowley are part of the inspiration behind Poppy.) Or in the case of Les Mis (semi-spoiler alert if you’ve never seen Les Mis) finding common ground drives one of them to take drastic measures. For a while, Mel isn’t sure which way it’s going to go for her!
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing, or did it develop organically?
One of the joys of being a mystery writer is that when real people piss you off, you get to kill them and not go to jail—LOL! So I knew who the victims were and how they were going to die before I started writing. I typically outline the story in broad strokes before I start, but it usually ends up taking on a life of its own about halfway through.
Where does the next book in the series take the characters?
It’s still a work in progress, but I believe Mel is going to drag Deputy Gregg Marks off the mountain down to her old turf in LA. They need to follow up on some clues to help Jackson out of a bind. Since Jackson and Gregg are rivals, I’m clearly obsessed with exploring enemies begrudgingly helping each other out!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
The situation gets complicated, however, when the ruggedly handsome Deputy Sheriff Gregg Marks flirts with Mel, bringing him dangerously close to the criminal she’s hiding. And just when her friendship with café owner Jackson Thibodeaux blossoms into something more, he’s offered the opportunity of a lifetime in New Orleans. Should she encourage him to go, or ask him to stay? Who knew romance could be just as hard to solve as murder?
Framed for Murder
Framed for Murder by Marla A. White offers a charming blend of cozy mystery and light romance reminiscent of a Hallmark movie. The story centers around Mel O’Rourke, a former police officer who now operates a bed and breakfast in the picturesque mountain town of Pine Cove. Despite a previous murder incident at her establishment, Mel finds her new life settling into a comfortable rhythm—until Poppy Phillips, a notorious cat burglar, arrives seeking refuge from a botched burglary. This complicates matters, especially with a local deputy sheriff who has romantic designs on Mel and could threaten Poppy’s safety.
White’s novel is a delightful foray into the cozy mystery genre, echoing the quaint and engaging qualities of Agatha Christie’s work. The narrative is well-paced, maintaining a balance that is neither too intricate to follow leisurely nor too simplistic to solve prematurely. This equilibrium ensures a pleasurable reading experience that is engaging without being taxing. The real allure of Framed for Murder lies in its characters. Mel O’Rourke, with her law enforcement background, serves as a stabilizing voice of reason amid the colorful cast of secondary characters. Her grounded presence contrasts effectively with the vibrant and sassy contributions of figures like Grandma O’Rourke and Poppy Phillips. The latter’s flair and mystery are so compelling that they could easily be the focus of a spin-off, exploring her adventures and backstory in greater depth.
Marla A. White’s Framed for Murder is an enjoyable read, perfect for those looking to unwind with a book that combines mystery, charm, and a touch of romance. Whether you’re cozying up at home or basking in the summer sun, this novel is a wonderful companion.
Pages: 284 | ASIN : B0D18C415T
Lifelong Love of Mysteries and Thrillers
Float the Boat follows a former aid worker who finds himself amid a global scandal after he finds his former colleague murdered and is accused of being an infamous serial killer. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Memories of days gone by inspired me.
In Float the Boat, half the story and the first of a series of murders take place in a former Vietnamese refugee camp in Indonesia. During the 80s, I worked in such a camp on Galang Island, Indonesia. We ran an educational program for refugees bound for the States and taught our students survival English, cultural orientation, and pre-employment skills, all to facilitate smooth assimilation into the US. Life in the remote island camp, located only a few miles from the Equator, was extremely stressful, with long work hours, a harsh environment, and the ever-present swirl of corruption and geopolitics. The maps I created bring some of this reality home to the reader. Of course, since the book opens in Washington, DC, some six weeks after Harvey Weinstein’s exposure, headlines from those days and after provided more raw material.
In summary, then, real life minus the tedious parts inspired me, and then I added in a dash or two of the extreme!
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
In real life, nobody is wholly good or bad. I modeled my characters on real people and placed them in realistic situations and conflicts. Nick Harmon, my protagonist, is a prototypical Everyman not without warts and quirks who finds himself in dire straits. Once before, he went all-in to save his life and now, confronted by dilemma after dilemma, he’s prepared to risk it to pursue the truth and save his skin. Adnan Sulaiman, my antagonist, is one bad cookie but has positive aspects, like personal magnetism, that rocketed him to fame and fortune. Even my serial killer has a soft side. Once I placed the characters in the arena, I let the famous quote from either Edmund Burke or John Stuart Mill, that “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing,” drive the plot.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
I’d like to mention three experiences. First, a lifelong love of mysteries and thrillers determined my genre. Next, I’ve spent almost a quarter of my life living in Indonesia, Japan, and Korea, and that experience fuels the stories I want to create. Last, I came to writing late in life. This is my third career, following one in the NGO world and another in strategic purchasing, and I see the wisdom in Mark Twain’s quote “Write what you know.”
Is there a second book planned?
Yes, and thank you for teeing that up for me! Nick Harmon will return in a stand-alone Mystery-Thriller sequel. A new client has a unique need, and he gets entangled in another thrilling adventure filled with twists and turns and murder, and set in Ohio and Japan. The release target is Summer 2025, and I’ll make an update on my website later this coming spring.
Author Links: Goodreads | Twitter | Website | Amazon
Adnan Sulaiman’s latest deal will make real estate history. But the Indonesian billionaire now stands accused of murder. Not by DC police, by a dead woman he never met and a cabal of media loudmouths. The bad news goes global fast. One partner bails, others waiver, and protesters mass at headquarters. He’s in the fight of his life and won’t back down.
Detective Steve Caine designates Nick the key suspect and Sulaiman a longshot. But is either man the elusive serial killer? Troubling inconsistencies mount, and unanswered questions dog him. Then a reporter breaks news about crucial evidence. One murderer or two? And if the Surf Club Killer’s in town, when will he carve another wave?
Murder in Concrete
In Murder in Concrete, author Arthur Coburn delivers a riveting mystery thriller centered around the determined and headstrong Charlie Purdue. The narrative begins with Charlie’s world being shattered by the traumatic discovery of her mother’s body and her father fleeing the scene, an event that throws her once-ordinary teenage life into disarray. Struggling with PTSD and paranoia, she takes it upon herself to unravel the truth behind her mother’s murder, leading her on an unexpected journey to a Los Angeles movie set. There, she not only finds clues to the murder but also uncovers answers to questions she hadn’t even considered.
Coburn crafts a compelling investigation, effectively drawing readers into Charlie’s quest. Her refusal to accept the town’s prevalent theory about her father’s guilt drives the story forward with urgency. The depiction of Charlie’s PTSD is a notable aspect of the book, adding layers to her character and introducing an element of unreliability in her narration. This narrative choice enriches the plot’s complexity and adds to the overall suspense.
Coburn successfully portrays Charlie as a convincingly relentless avenger in her quest for justice, complemented by a well-rounded ensemble of villains and allies. Although there are moments where the dialogue between Charlie and the secondary characters could be more fluid, these instances are balanced by the overall strength in character development, adding depth to Charlie’s interactions and journey. While occasionally facing challenges in fluidity during scene transitions, Coburn’s prose successfully maintains a brisk pace that keeps the reader thoroughly engaged. The story culminates in a notably satisfying conclusion, skillfully tying up loose ends and offering a twist that is poised to delight readers.
Murder in Concrete stands out as a solid pick for those who enjoy a fast-paced thriller that combines an intricate mystery with high emotional stakes. Coburn’s narrative invites readers into a world where uncovering the truth is as perilous as it is imperative, making for an engaging and suspenseful read.
Pages: 335 | ASIN : B0CRJ19QWQ
The New Neighbors
Step into a world of intrigue and mystery in The New Neighbors, where Sophie’s life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of enigmatic newcomers in the dead of night.
Meet Sophie, a woman with a growing sense of unease about her new neighbors. Amid her own curiosity, she forms a unique bond with Matt, a teenager grappling with the tragic loss of his parents and adjusting to a new life under the care of his aunt and uncle. But it’s not long before Sophie’s unease deepens, and the atmosphere thickens with unsettling incidents that defy explanation. A pervasive sense of danger looms, leaving Sophie baffled by the eerie silence of those around her. Her anxiety mounts as she races against time, struggling to unravel the enigma behind these peculiar occurrences and desperately seeking a way to bring them to an end.
In The New Neighbors, secrets and suspicions intermingle, and readers are thrust into a world where every page brims with tension and uncertainty. Readers join Sophie as she navigates the labyrinth of the unknown, keeping them on the edge of their seats until the very last word. Tamara Cooper’s enchanting writing style effortlessly blends light-heartedness with an irresistible aura of mystery, making it virtually impossible to resist the urge to put the novel down, with a perfect combination of drama and tension keeping readers deliciously on edge.
Sophie, the protagonist, is a delightful character, brimming with intelligence, wit, and a deeply caring nature. She’s the kind of character readers can’t help but root for, and as her world becomes increasingly enigmatic, they eagerly join her quest for answers. The introduction of Sophie’s best friend, Terri, injects an extra layer of charm into the story. Their dynamic duo is a sheer delight to read about, adding humor and depth to the narrative.
But it’s Sophie and Burke’s budding romance that truly steals the show. Their chemistry is palpable, and the author expertly crafts a slow-burning, adorable romantic tension that will have readers emotionally invested in their relationship’s every twist and turn. Tamara Cooper’s gift for vivid imagery transports readers into Sophie’s world with astounding clarity. Readers will feel like an intimate friend of Sophie’s, right beside her, as she unravels the enigma surrounding her mysterious new neighbors. The story’s construction keeps them perpetually intrigued as the mystery and tension gracefully escalate, leaving them hanging on the precipice of revelation until the very last page.
The New Neighbors is a thrilling rollercoaster of suspense that not only delivers on its promises but exceeds them, ensuring that the reading experience is nothing short of exhilarating. Tamara Cooper’s book is a mesmerizing novel that combines the charms of its characters, the allure of a blossoming romance, and the suspense of an enigmatic mystery.
Pages: 359 | ASIN : B0CHKQDG28
In Time of Need
In Time of Need by Alan Zacher artfully weaves together elements of mystery and coming-of-age into the unique narrative about its charismatic protagonist, the 68-year-old Madeline. Surprising, even her husband, Madeline, embarks on an unexpected journey to fulfill her dream of becoming a private detective. Though her initial attempts are met with difficulty, a tragic event catapults her into her first real case.
When a close friend, Ruby, loses her daughter Laura in a devastating fire, she adamantly disputes the official verdict of accidental death. However, the preceding events cast a shadow of suspicion, prompting Ruby to enlist Madeline’s detective prowess. The investigation unravels a labyrinth of secrets, challenging everything Madeline thought she knew.
Author Alan Zacher excels in portraying rich and multifaceted characters, enabling the readers to establish an emotional connection, thus rendering them more than just two-dimensional figures in a novel. As we delve deeper into the intricate plot, we can’t help but ponder whether the unveiled truths will pave the way for justice.
Amidst this engrossing drama, the book also tenderly navigates the relationship between Madeline and her steadfast, though unassuming, husband, Peter. Their journey is so charming that readers will find themselves silently cheering for their happiness.
In Time of Need is a compelling read; I feel a potential area for refinement lies in one of the climactic scenes. Here, Madeline finds herself in jeopardy as she anticipates the arrival of a police officer. Unfortunately, his delay, albeit explained, appears implausible given his prior knowledge of Madeline’s predicament, creating a gap in an otherwise seamlessly woven plot.
In Time of Need is an engaging and suspenseful mystery with an enigmatic amateur sleuth. Zacher’s crafting of a well-structured narrative with interesting characters makes this novel a worthwhile read. The profound characterization, along with an intriguing plot, indeed offers an enthralling literary experience.
Pages: 157 | ASIN : B08N57L6F2
Haunting Pasts
In Haunting Pasts, Trevor Wiltzen crafts an engaging tale of mystery, courage, and resilience. The protagonist, Mabel Davison, is a multifaceted character with roles as diverse as motherhood, entrepreneurship, and amateur detective work. Her acute intellect, indomitable resolve, and astute intuition characterize her. Unpopular among the townsfolk due to an inadvertent bust of a local drug ring, Mabel nonetheless perseveres in her pursuit of justice. Unfazed by the societal backlash, she relentlessly delves into a troubling situation of disappearances afflicting young women in her town.
The storyline propels forward on the strength of a primary lead, a gang member Mabel had previously helped incarcerate. As Mabel uncovers a trail littered with deception and tantalizing hints of the truth, she finds herself on a chilling collision course with a serial killer.
Haunting Pasts offers a riveting experience, masterfully challenging the reader’s perception of time, trust, and reality. Wiltzen’s prose exudes magnetism, effortlessly drawing readers into an immersive narrative environment. His adept manipulation of time, seamlessly entwining past and present, breathes life into the characters, making their tribulations tangible and their residual trauma palpable.
The plot’s architecture is meticulous and true to the essence of detective fiction. Wiltzen has the ability to create an intricate jigsaw puzzle, each piece slotting into place as the narrative unfolds. As a result, observing the broader picture materialize is a uniquely satisfying experience, despite some periods of slower pacing as the narrative meticulously lays down plot details. These lulls are swiftly eclipsed by the mounting suspense and intrigue that ratchet up as the plot advances.
The exploration of the central theme of ‘haunting pasts’ offers a compelling, if straightforward, examination of psychological trauma and its aftermath. Wiltzen’s approach is accessible, potentially inviting a broader audience to engage with these complex themes. For connoisseurs of the psychological thriller genre, the familiarity of certain plot elements may offer a comforting echo of classic narratives, providing a sense of nostalgia and grounding in well-trodden thematic terrain.
Haunting Pasts comes highly recommended for those looking to dip their toes into the genre or enthusiasts of 80s investigative dramas. Trevor Wiltzen’s novel is a thrilling and immersive journey into the heart of a small town riddled with dark secrets.
Pages: 318 | ASIN : B0BVJZ5S7S
