Blog Archives
Perceived Predictability
Inheriting Karma follows a man hiding in plain sight whose cover is blown, sending his life into chaos and forcing him to scramble to hold it all together with the least amount of casualties. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The question itself holds the key to my answer. I’m the type of guy who needs a challenge. Predictable outcomes send me packing from the story. I write how I feel, so having a man hiding in plain sight with a perceived predictability lets me shock the reader.
I thank you for your review; it truly nails my intention when writing stories. It’s no secret that my series is not for everyone. Characters who die in the first book are still big participants in follow-ups. For the reader, they are tasked with trying to follow the depth of karma each actor’s actions create.
What inspired your characters’ interactions and backstories?
Growing up, I didn’t have to go far for what I now call Safari Hunts. Challenging Karma was meant as a one-off, keep a last promise to my mom. So many family traits make up the characters. Mam’s boob magnet eyes, Francois’ inventing new dishes and making everyone try it, Ray’s never buying new clothes, and love of pickles.
Backstories are a blend of daydreaming, people-watching, and engagement. When my tenth draft of Challenging Karma shocked my mom into trying to talk me out of using its ending, I knew I had a formula that I couldn’t change.
By nature, I’m a puzzle solver; even playing cards, it has to be a strategic game or I get bored (any bridge players who can help educate)? Even now, I have to slow down because I write an interaction that leads to a fifth, sixth, or even seventh book storyline. For example, lawyer Charlene Reece was supposed to die in Surviving Karma then a daydream brought her story to a new level. Her Karma story really expands in Reciprocating Karma, coming out later this month.
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
For me, the story takes the reader so many miles down a path only to reach a time when the puzzle hits a three-pronged crossroads. Again, your reviewer nailed it when he said he had to go back to adjust his thoughts. So far, the twists exist on these three paths: believe what you think you read, go back to change your thinking, or go forward with expected outcomes.
The twist, although meant to shock, is a kind of progression of events that fills a lot of our current news cycles. Serial Killers in #1. A wrongfully convicted prisoner seeks payback in #2. Criminal organizations use public events to further their goals in #3. And #4, where a vigilante will seek retribution for the deaths of loved ones.
The premise, “Walk in another’s shoes,” is how I try to develop the story. Hence, the need for a comedic slowdown, weird encounter, or stubborn quirk. I want unique characters that readers can relate to. Reciprocating Karma introduces Carlee. Her sports story is one such lighter moment. But even while writing it, I could picture my wife actually living that experience (before she married a sports nut, of course).
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
Beta readers for #4, Reciprocating Karma compare it to a movie that has caused many a conversation about whether it’s a Christmas movie or a thriller during the holiday season. It comes out in the next few weeks, so readers will have to pick a side. Yes, there’s a shock, but its subtitle causes a self-review of one’s own life.
The future in my Karma world has at least two more shocks to provide. In fact, both #5 and #6 are ripping through pages (I handwrite every first draft). But with Karma being such a wide open source of inspiration, seven will start filling dreams soon.
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
Runs parallel to the soon to be released crossover book #4 ‘Reciprocating Karma!’
One oversight is all it took to turn hunters against him. Legal documents record his real name as Wilson O’Reilly instead of Forrest Clay, but his involvement with Ricky Topin going rogue brightens the already dual personality spotlight. Two criminal accomplices vie for attention over the one true love Wilson has ever experienced, a cop.
Once word spread of his link to Topin’s murderous rage, hiding in plain sight no longer became a possibility. Or just maybe? A boss to one, partner to another, and enemy to the third person, O’Reilly weaves his circumstances toward a solution. Although for him to walk the streets again, past friends may die, organizations receive new leadership, and cops become targets.
Although fluid, the first seed planted is to use his onetime lovers, position against her. A simple warning of an assassination attempt piques interest until the offspring of a former gangster ‘Inherits Karma’ from his father. One kill shot setting the stage for O’Reilly to regain the blessings of freedom.
Stuck in quicksand, law enforcement takes the case, international. Thrilling mind games culminate in a three-minute window, where survival becomes a scene of chaos.
Deception’s Edge
From the very first chapter, Deception’s Edge plunges you into a world that fuses action, espionage, faith, and deep personal trauma into a globe-spanning narrative. The story follows Blade Broussard, a knife-throwing performer with a haunted past, and a covert brotherhood known as the Soldati di Cristo, as they navigate an escalating series of violent confrontations and spiritual reckonings. Across cities like New Orleans, Rome, and Pyongyang, Potter weaves together a story that pits characters against ruthless regimes, their own inner demons, and a ticking clock that adds weight to every decision.
I found myself torn in the best possible way while reading this book. On one hand, the writing is brisk, full of punchy dialogue and vivid action that reads like a cinematic thriller. On the other hand, there are deeply reflective moments, grief, redemption, and hard-won faith that give the story emotional muscle. What impressed me most was Potter’s ability to bring out the complexity in her characters. Blade isn’t just a revenge-driven protagonist; she’s deeply flawed, grieving, sometimes reckless, but always inching toward growth. And Chase, who starts out as a bit of a mystery, becomes a steady heartbeat in the chaos, a man whose convictions give the plot real weight. Potter doesn’t just throw her characters into wild situations; she lets them break, rebuild, and wrestle with truth.
With a cast this large and subplots this layered, I sometimes struggled to keep track of shifting motivations, especially across the international set pieces. The story juggled many threads, action, espionage, faith-based conflict, and interpersonal drama. But I can’t deny that even when the plot got tangled, the emotional stakes stayed strong. The writing has heart, and that matters more to me than perfect pacing.
Deception’s Edge surprised me. It’s not just another thriller. It’s part Jason Bourne, part missionary story, part personal redemption arc. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys high-octane action with soul. It’s especially a good fit for readers who appreciate stories that ask hard questions about faith, forgiveness, and how we move forward when everything’s been taken from us. If you want a thriller with grit and grace, give this one a shot.
The Silent Professional
Sky Thunder follows a man retired from the military who now works as a CIA operative leading a mission to protect a scientist defecting from Morocco while facing off against a group of radical terrorists. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
As I finished my first book Cry of the Eagle I was doing some research on how I was going to continue the Colt Hawkins Series. During my research, I was reading about how the stealth technology had gone from aircraft to missiles and how China actually has a stealth missile called Sky Thunder. I loved the name. As I was building the outline, I remembered a book from the late 70’s that I read in high school by Gayle Rivers called The Five Fingers. I used that as the base idea for Sky Thunder.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I research everything. For Sky Thunder, I did an in-depth study of Russian Services like the FSB, Elite units, and how Russia uses contractors to be mercenaries, and even though I may know some of it, I still researched to make sure I am as accurate as I can be. I always want the story to sound authentic with the reader in mind. Especially my fellow brothers and sisters who wear or have worn the uniform. If I get positive feedback from them, then I know I did ok.
Colt Hawkins is such an engaging character. What was the inspiration for his traits and dialogue?
That is really a good question. Colt is a combination of people that I have had the pleasure to work with. Hell, part of him is me. Colt is the silent professional, Once you have been through some real life and death experiences you have nothing to prove to anyone. Colt knows what he can do when he has to do it. He doesn’t like it but he will do it for the greater good. The part where he tries to keep his emotions to himself. All the good that comes his way he is afraid to trust it. The bad he keeps in because he doesn’t want to burden anyone.
Colt slowly realizes he can’t do it alone. This is my story. Use what you know, right? I think as warriors we have it ingrained into us that we can endure, I don’t need help, I am ok, we shake it off, ignore it, or bury it deep within regardless and continue the mission at all cost. But now the mission is us, our families. At some point you have to depend on others if you don’t it becomes a lonely world. So Colt and his teammates are flawed. Like every team I have ever been on.
Where will the next installment in this series take readers? When can they expect to see it released?
Book Three Rogue Vengeance is the aftermath of Sky Thunder on so many levels. The opening paragraph reveals several things from Sky Thunder that will catch the readers by surprise. China reveals itself to Taiwan. I will say this, for Colt and Liberty things hit too close to home.
Rogue Vengeance is ready. As of right now, we are looking at every Veterans Day to be a release date for all my books. But that may all change if I acquire representation with an agent.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
“Sky Thunder” is the story of the men and women of one of the world’s most elite and secretive paramilitary organizations. Special Activities Division of the CIA, Former Tier One Operator Colt Hawkins is gritty, smart, honorable, battle-tested, and devoted to his fellow operators and his country, who are frequently put in harm’s way by the evils of the world.
Colt Hawkins has recently retired from the military and is now a CIA Operative engaged with NASA Director Dr. Liberty Starr. A new team has been assembled on their first mission in Morrocco to protect a CIA spy transferring a defecting Chinese Scientist. During the defection, Vlad Benchiko, the mastermind behind the Dallas bombings, and Wahid Madi and Amal Sefer, the two Iranian-trained radical terrorists who were also responsible for all the killing and destruction in Texas, catch Task Force 24 and the CIA off-guard trying to stop the defection.
The scientist discovered a secret about Russia and China collaborating to develop the first strike weapon, a stealth missile called Sky Thunder. The new President is determined to obtain the innovative technology that America abandoned and orders the mission- seize the technology and destroy a secret facility deep inside Russia in the Caucasus Mountain ranges. Colt leads his team, U.S. Army Special Forces members, and U.S. Navy Seals into a never attempted feat. Inside the White House, a Chinese double agent is a top advisor and part of the President’s inner circle.
CIA Special Activities Division Task Force 24 retrieves the technology. Another team is ambushed by Vlad and his army of mercenaries of Red Star Group. At the same time, the President gives the abort order, afraid of being blamed and giving the White House a black eye, leaving the CIA operatives inside Russia to fight for their survival, not giving up Dr. Liberty Starr and the CIA team with Washington insiders try to save Colt and the men and women in Russia.
An unbreakable bond is forged when people sacrifice their lives for each other to bring these brave men and women home.
My Most Crucial Audience
In Sky Thunder, a specialized team of operatives infiltrates Russian territory in an attempt to sabotage the development of advanced weaponry. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
There were several things. While researching the following plot for the Colt Hawkins Series, I found information about China and an actual stealth missile, which they call Sky Thunder. The name alone caught my attention. Combined with an old book I read in high school, I believe it was from the 1970s called The Five Fingers by Gayle Rivers. It is a classic Vietnam War Novel.
I felt that the action scenes were expertly crafted. I find that this is an area that can be overdone in novels. How did you approach this subject to make sure it flowed evenly?
All my action scenes are from combat or training scenarios I have experienced or witnessed.
The scenes would speak independently if I could add a “real” element to my writing. In the opening scene of Sky Thunder, Colt is having a flashback as he sleeps. The dream was a real-life sniper mission that I was a part of in Iraq when I was a soldier.
I think many of the writing of characters in my genre are made to be superhuman. So, I use this for several reasons, such as a flashback to show that Colt is vulnerable to what he has done in the past. I wanted my characters to have flaws, making them more relatable to my readers.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
That is an excellent question, and there are a few, such as the importance of perseverance and the search for identity. Those two resonate because I write to cope with my mental health and struggles as a combat veteran.
When I first started writing, I felt that if veterans enjoyed my stories, I won as a writer. They were, first and foremost, my most crucial audience. But I realized that there was more to it than that.
It is for anyone who reads my stories. Regardless of your life struggles, you have to find your balance, give yourself a mental health check, forget what everyone else is doing in their lives, and concentrate on yourself- Search for identity, I asked myself many times after I stopped wearing a uniform and was struggling with my mental health.
At some point, you have to “Stay in the Fight.” A fight for your self-perseverance. What do you have to do to make those adjustments or changes? I wanted to be an example that there is light at the end of the tunnel. If I can do it, anyone can.
Colt and all my characters are consistent in self-evaluating.
Can we look forward to seeing more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
I have a lot going on. Book three of the Colt Hawkins Series, Rogue Vengeance, 75k words is finished, and the final edit is complete. I am going to query a few agents on this work. I am finishing up book four, The Price of Freedom, which has over 100k words and is a pivotal piece in the series.
I also have a Dungeon and Dragon Fantasy Novel outlined for a series. I have outlined a one-off-only novel with the setting starting at the end of World War Two that will be an Adult Thriller.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
“Sky Thunder” is the story of the men and women of one of the world’s most elite and secretive paramilitary organizations. Special Activities Division of the CIA, Former Tier One Operator Colt Hawkins is gritty, smart, honorable, battle-tested, and devoted to his fellow operators and his country, who are frequently put in harm’s way by the evils of the world.
Colt Hawkins has recently retired from the military and is now a CIA Operative engaged with NASA Director Dr. Liberty Starr. A new team has been assembled on their first mission in Morrocco to protect a CIA spy transferring a defecting Chinese Scientist. During the defection, Vlad Benchiko, the mastermind behind the Dallas bombings, and Wahid Madi and Amal Sefer, the two Iranian-trained radical terrorists who were also responsible for all the killing and destruction in Texas, catch Task Force 24 and the CIA off-guard trying to stop the defection.
The scientist discovered a secret about Russia and China collaborating to develop the first strike weapon, a stealth missile called Sky Thunder. The new President is determined to obtain the innovative technology that America abandoned and orders the mission- seize the technology and destroy a secret facility deep inside Russia in the Caucasus Mountain ranges. Colt leads his team, U.S. Army Special Forces members, and U.S. Navy Seals into a never attempted feat. Inside the White House, a Chinese double agent is a top advisor and part of the President’s inner circle.
CIA Special Activities Division Task Force 24 retrieves the technology. Another team is ambushed by Vlad and his army of mercenaries of Red Star Group. At the same time, the President gives the abort order, afraid of being blamed and giving the White House a black eye, leaving the CIA operatives inside Russia to fight for their survival, not giving up Dr. Liberty Starr and the CIA team with Washington insiders try to save Colt and the men and women in Russia.
An unbreakable bond is forged when people sacrifice their lives for each other to bring these brave men and women home.
Heart of Evergreen
Heart of Evergreen by Mary L. Schmidt is a psychological thriller that masterfully delves into the unraveling life of Kim Dailey. A devoted wife, Kim’s seemingly perfect marriage takes a chilling turn when she discovers her name linked to a hit list on her husband Steve’s laptop. This revelation propels her into a whirlwind of doubt and fear, where every moment becomes a high-stakes journey to uncover the truth. As Kim confronts the possibility that her husband may be a covert assassin, the narrative explores themes of deception, resilience, and the lengths one will go to protect their family.
One of the novel’s standout strengths is its seamless blend of suspense, mystery, and romance. Schmidt crafts a deeply personal and intimate story, grounding the tension with the raw, emotional depth of her protagonist. Kim’s love for Steve, even amidst her mounting suspicion, and her compassionate observations of him as a father figure to her children, create a poignant duality that resonates. A particularly haunting moment arises when Dmitry’s death is contemplated—a scene so viscerally portrayed that it lingers long after reading. Schmidt juxtaposes the brutal finality of loss with the tenderness of grief, making it both heartrending and unforgettable. The story’s backdrop is a festive celebration overshadowed by the threat of an unseen assassin that creates gripping tension, while the richly layered characters bring authenticity and nuance to the narrative. The novel’s exploration of human relationships is deeply resonant, capturing moments of heartbreak, love, and hope with equal finesse. A notable strength lies in its portrayal of women’s resilience. Whether navigating life-altering choices or enduring harrowing trials, the women in Heart of Evergreen shine as embodiments of strength and grace. Balancing its weighty emotional themes are heartwarming glimpses of Kim’s moments of joy, particularly with her children. These scenes lend a warmth that counterbalances the darker aspects of the plot, offering moments of reprieve amidst the tension. The crescendo of the narrative, the poignant demise of Dmitry stands out as a masterfully written moment, weaving hope and heartbreak into an unforgettable climax.
Heart of Evergreen is an evocative tale that will captivate readers who enjoy romantic family sagas infused with elements of crime, desire, and emotional complexity. Fans of Ian McEwan’s Atonement will be drawn to its layered storytelling and profound exploration of the human spirit. This is a novel that lingers in the mind, leaving readers both moved and reflective.
Pages: 160 | ASIN : B0DR69LRC2
Alister in Action
In Spider’s Bait, a man known for helping others finds justice when the law fails to uncover corruption in the police department when he investigates a police sergeant’s deadly accident. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
The idea came from the fourth book in the Griffin Knight series, The Windy City Terror. I decided to create a side story where readers can see Alister in action.
What was the hardest part about writing a mystery story; where you constantly have to give just enough to keep the mystery alive until the big reveal?
For me, it’s coming up with ideas to keep readers invested in the story. The more books you make, the harder it becomes.
Do you have a favorite scene in this story? One that was fun to write?
The final scene between Alister Knight and the killer is my favorite. Another scene that was fun to create was when Xavier was in the Cyberverse.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
Lashings of Hunger is the next thrilling mystery novella that I made. It is about Tyrese Randolph, an African American private detective who travels to Alaska for a winter vacation with his Caucasian girlfriend, Nicole White. He meets her family there and gets wrapped up in a new investigation as Nicole goes missing. Also, disappearances have happened before Nicole’s, and something sinister seems to be taking place, as the wolves in Juneau are acting strange. As soon as I receive an endorsement, I’ll let my book cover designer know to add it to the front cover, and then I’ll post it on Amazon.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Amazon
While Griffin Knight is away on a case in Miami, his brother Alister takes on the responsibility of solving the death of Seattle Police Sergeant Valentina Romero. With the Killer Owls gang replaced by the even more ruthless Webheads, Alister must navigate the treacherous Seattle underworld to find the killer and put a stop to the Webheads before their power grows. But as he delves deeper into the case, he realizes there is a more dangerous enemy than he could have imagined – himself.
If you enjoyed this thrilling mystery, you’ll love Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr.’s other books, filled with complex characters and heart-pounding suspense.
Believable, Not Just Nostalgic
Twelve Palominos follows a Private Investigator from San Diego who is hired by a wealthy family to acquire the last miniature palomino that once belonged to the Emperor of China. What inspired the setup of your story?
I was looking for a “hook” that would keep readers as interested in the hunt, as in the story itself. The historical references to the origins of Palominos in different parts of the world at different times in history seemed a good way to do that.
I found Brig Ellis to be an intriguing character. What was your inspiration for this character?
I wanted to modernize the classic gumshoes of the past. Sam Spade, Philip Marlow, etc. But wanted to make him believable, not just nostalgic. That’s why I developed the military background. Also tried to split the difference between “boy scout” and “street smart” morality. He’s good, not perfect. Honorable, not sleazy. Yet will bend a few rules, maybe even break a law now and then to accomplish what he thinks is right.
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing, or did it develop organically?
Little of both really. Started simply with the title. Liked the way it sounded. Built the search around that. Outlined would “could” happen, but often revised, added to, or literally changed things as I wrote. Pretty much what I always do. Have a basic plan and/or outline…but don’t adhere to it slavishly.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Brig Ellis and the direction of the next book?
The wife of his friend calls Ellis and tells him her husband is missing. Wants him to go find the guy? Something he’d probably do without hesitation. Until she reveals the hubby went missing in Bangkok. Sex tourism capital of the world. Is he really missing or has he opted out of the marriage by long-distance proxy? Soon, Ellis is on a plane to Thailand.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Amazon
Spider’s Bait: A Risky Alister Knight Mystery
Alister Knight and Griffin Knight, dubbed “the Knight Chasers,” are renowned for enforcing justice when the law fails. When Seattle Police Sergeant Valentina Romero dies in a suspicious car accident conveniently dismissed, Alister is tasked with thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. Seattle is rife with drug trafficking, dangerous gang wars, corrupt officials, and covert illegal transactions. The Webhead gang is quickly gaining control of Seattle’s dark underground drug dealing after defeating other rival gangs. Alister’s investigation uncovers a web of connections between corrupt police officers, dangerous Webheads, and a web of lies. The path to justice is treacherous and serpentine, but he will not stop until the Webheads are no more and Valentina’s case is solved.
From the get-go, Spider’s Bait, by Miguel Angel Hernandez Jr., grips you with its fast-paced action and complex characters. Hernandez does an excellent job setting the scene in the Prologue, where bullets fly, and gang loyalties are tested. Max’s leadership and ruthless tactics come alive, especially in moments that reveal both his strategic mind and his cold-blooded nature. An especially brutal introduction sets the tone for the relentless pace of the book.
One of the strengths of the novel is its character development. Alister Knight, the other protagonist, brings a contrasting perspective to the chaotic world of the Webheads. His moral ambiguity and relentless pursuit of the truth add layers to the narrative. The scene where Alister navigates the Cyberverse to track illicit financial transactions showcases his intelligence and determination, providing a stark contrast to the raw aggression of the gang members. These dual narratives enrich the story, offering readers multiple angles on the central conflict. I do feel the dialogue in some high-tension scenes is less intense where a natural flow is crucial. I am a fan of raw authenticity when it comes to characters’ conversations. I would like to have seen a bit more from some of the exchanges between the hardened criminals. However, this does not take away from Hernandez’s well-crafted and immersive reading experience.
Hernandez’s ability to weave intricate plots and develop compelling characters makes Spider’s Bait a standout read, especially for fans of gritty, action-packed stories. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy intense, fast-paced narratives with a mix of street-level crime and cyber intrigue.
Pages: 120 | ASIN : B0CTXVR5RV
LITERARY TITAN 