Blog Archives
Romance in Evergreen
Romance in Evergreen by Mary L. Schmidt is an engaging novel that weaves together elements of family drama and thriller into an intricate tapestry of secrets and suspense. Set against the quaint backdrop of Evergreen, the story unfolds during the Leawood family’s Thanksgiving celebrations, which are abruptly disrupted by the threat of an unknown assassin. As the family contends with unexpected guests and buried secrets, they find themselves ensnared in a web of espionage that challenges their loyalties and threatens to alter their futures irreversibly.
Schmidt skillfully manages multiple storylines, propelling the narrative with quick twists that maintain the reader’s interest. The incorporation of espionage elements lends a thrilling edge to the familial conflicts, creating a compelling blend of personal stakes and broader intrigue. The novel’s pacing is effectively managed, with tension building steadily towards a climactic resolution. The story, grounded in a rich premise, offers an ambitious narrative style. At times, the prose is intricately crafted with complex sentences and a brisk introduction of new characters, designed to challenge and engage readers more deeply. While this approach might distance some from the emotional core of the story, it adds layers of complexity. Additionally, the transitions between scenes, though occasionally abrupt, contribute to a dynamic and evolving plotline that keeps readers on their toes. The novel shines in its depiction of intimate family dynamics and tense espionage activities. The quieter moments of reflection interspersed throughout provide a welcome respite from the high stakes and help to pace the narrative thoughtfully.
Romance in Evergreen offers a unique blend of suspense and drama that showcases Schmidt’s versatility as a writer. This book will engage readers who enjoy stories where personal and secretive worlds collide.
Pages: 155 | ASIN : B0CZJF3N23
Redemption of Even the Most Evil
In Firefax, a family of highly-trained assassins is left to contend with their eldest sibling’s maniacal behavior and two rival spy agencies following the death of their patriarch. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I originally wrote this when I was 17 or 18, and I think a great many things inspired it, especially books that I enjoyed as a teen, like Treasure Island, the works of Patrick O’Brian, and Fyodor Dostoevsky. The biggest inspiration for me when I first came up with the idea and wrote it, was probably the book Demons by Fyodor Dostoevsky. I’d highly recommend it, especially if you want a much deeper exploration than I’m capable of writing of the darkness and absurdity contained within the human soul.
The Firefax family is absolutely fascinating. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I enjoyed all these characters! The most fun to write was probably Murdoch. His interactions with all his siblings and with Esperanza were very amusing to describe. I also had a lot of fun writing Istäni’s character. Cara was the hardest to write because she is such a deeply repressed individual, and what boils beneath the surface isn’t always clear.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wrote this book first as a teenager, and part of what I was exploring at that time was my own teenage angst after I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Louis’ suffering is honestly part of that exploration and hasn’t changed much at all since I originally wrote the work (though, just to be clear, the character Louis himself is in no way based on me). Then, it sat in a drawer for many years. I continued writing in the interim, including some other currently unpublished fantasy works, learning and growing as a writer. I finally took Firefax out of the drawer in 2021, during the delta wave of COVID.
At the time of the rewrite, I was working in the hospital, taking care of a lot of COVID patients, and it was honestly hell on earth. People died every shift. It was very hard. I talk a bit more about this on my substack here. Rewriting Firefax was an escape for me, and a means of survival during a very dark time, more than anything. That said, I find it interesting what themes others take away from it. I think a lot of what people find in the work they bring in themselves, and interpret through their own lens, as with any piece of art.
For me, the biggest theme I see when I look back at the novel is the idea of isolation, and how inhuman it can make people to be cut off from community and love and connection. But there is also exploration of how to overcome that, and the hope, perhaps, of redemption of even the most evil people through love.
Can fans of the Firefax clan expect to see a second installment? What are you currently working on?
I am actually working on a sequel to Firefax, and probably a third book with these characters as well. I wanted Firefax itself to stand alone; people can read it and be satisfied with that one book and its ending. But there’s definitely more to come for those readers who want more of these characters.
My next work to be published will be a historical fiction set during the war between the British and French and their Native allies over the Great Lakes Region in the year 1759. It’s called La Belle Famille, and the ebook can be preordered here: La Belle Famille, or you can wait for the official release on the 265th anniversary of the battle, July 24th, 2024. It’s a high-stakes adventure tale leading up to perhaps the most pivotal battle of that entire war. There are no assassins in it, but plenty more dysfunctional family dynamics and excitement.
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Legend tells of a city of gold on a phantom island. The wealth of that city could end the American Revolution. But the only person who knows the island’s location is the world’s deadliest assassin. And he’s not giving up that secret without a fight . . .
The world’s oldest family of high-profile assassins, the Firefaxes, have been killing off dignitaries—and being well-compensated to do so—for centuries. The family is thrown into turmoil by their patriarch’s death and the return of their cunning, cruel prodigal, Murdoch. With their father dead, Murdoch is the only one who knows where the Firefax wealth is, kept on a secret island. But two competing intelligence networks in the American Revolution are bent on tracking down the legendary treasure to end the war, whatever the cost. However, these spy networks may have met their match in this wily, dysfunctional family of killers.
Think Like an Assassin
Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen follows an artist married to a private investigator who discovers her husband is actually an assassin, and she is at the top of his hit list. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I decided to write the first book of a trilogy set in Evergreen, Colorado. The title is Christmas in Evergreen, and I took my main characters out of my memoir, Her Heart, set in Lakewood, Colorado, and added characters from Boston, special women who had flaws, yet loved with their entire hearts. The story took off from there. Knowing and loving the area, plus this being my 49th book in my career, it flowed. I used events in my personal past and events already known, to make the story come alive and pop!
Kim thought things were going great in life till she discovered her husband’s hit list, and now is on the run and trying to figure out her life. What were some of the trials that you felt were important to highlight the character’s development?
In shock, Kim had to run for her life. She had little time to grab water bottles, a backpack with some clothes, her purse, and her mobile phone. She bought three burner phones, and she knew Steve would track her own phone, and she withdrew a large amount of cash right before she dropped her bank and credit cards in the bank’s trash. She had to remain calm and think. Kim tried to put herself in the role of an assassin and try to think like an assassin – not easy to do. She ditched her mobile in a ravine, left her vehicle and keys at her art gallery, and she sought help from one person she could trust.
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?
Would you believe it popped into my head? Because it truly did. I drew from personal life and events, a little from how assassin movies were planned out, and it worked. I found ways to add in twists and shocking events, without adding gore and blood because a good book, with the right hooks, has no need for that. I’ll give you my prologue for book two in the next question.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Prologue
“What did you just say? The senior officer (Special Agent Thompson) of the two men from Homeland Security, that both Nancy and Kim knew prior, repeated, ‘Rob and Liza Caldwell were taken out as a hit’ in Boston last night and we think their assassin is the agent handler extraordinaire, who put out the hit job on the President, and on you, Kim, last November. The hit man’s name is Jeffrey Sanders, we don’t know any alias, ethnicity, or if male or female. Security cameras were disabled before the actual hit. Rob and Liza were asleep when it happened early this morning. A silencer was used, and neighbors heard their dog barking non-stop and became worried. The couple checked on them, found them dead in their bed, and called 911. The police detectives could tell it was a professional hit and called us. Special Agent Hughes and I flew directly here from Washington, DC. A note left at the scene read, ‘Two down, eleven to go’ and the eleven to go are most likely both of you, the President, and people unidentified. Make no mistake. The hit man will take out anyone with you, when, NOT if, they find you.”
“How dare you take out my two best assets! I’m coming for you, Kim, and your friend, Nancy! Never mind, my best assets died in a roll-over accident! They were after you, Kim! Now I’m going to finish the job! Both of you and yours are going down! I know where you are and who you have in your life! Tit for tat. The same back to both of you!”
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Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen
Christmas in Evergreen by Mary Schmidt takes readers on a gripping journey into the world of psychological thrillers and crime fiction, interweaving elements of a troubled marriage with suspenseful twists. The protagonist, Kim Daily, is an artistically inclined individual married to a private investigator. Her world turns upside down when she uncovers a chilling secret: her own name on her husband’s hit list. This discovery propels Kim and her best friend Nancy to escape to Evergreen City, where they strategize their survival.
Schmidt’s storytelling prowess shines through in her intricate weaving of suspense and romance. The novel’s structure can be perceived as bifurcated, with the first part delving into a labyrinth of mysteries and the latter transitioning into a more intimate exploration of romantic drama. The author’s talent for creating suspense is notable, with each cliffhanger keeping readers eagerly turning pages. A significant strength of this novel is its authenticity and unpredictability. Schmidt skillfully portrays how the slow divergence of goals and aspirations can strain a relationship, culminating in a dramatic crescendo. Her vivid descriptions bring the setting of Evergreen City to life, immersing readers in its unique ambiance. The narrative flows with rich and engaging language, making it a delightful read. Among the characters, Kim stands out as a particularly compelling figure. Her fearless nature and the realistic portrayal of her challenges make her journey resonate deeply with readers.
Christmas in Evergreen is a compelling blend of suspense and romance, marked by Schmidt’s deft storytelling and rich character development. It’s a novel that entertains and offers a nuanced look at the complexities of relationships under strain. The anticipation for a sequel is a testament to the novel’s engaging and immersive nature.
Pages: 165 | ASIN : B0CRGH8ZVY
Firefax
In Firefax, by Amelia M. Vergara, the American War for Independence serves as a vivid backdrop to a tale of familial ties, espionage, and moral ambiguity. The narrative centers around the Firefax siblings, who have been nurtured on their family’s Maralah farm with a unique skill set tailored for assassination. Following the demise of their patriarch, the siblings are compelled to navigate their complex relationships anew, while simultaneously contending with their entanglement in a dangerous game orchestrated by Murdoch, the eldest, between two rival spy agencies, Argonaut and Myrmidon, in their quest for the elusive island of Lubrerum.
Vergara skillfully merges elements of mystery, action, and high-seas adventure in Firefax, creating a multifaceted and engaging story. Despite a large cast of characters within the Firefax family, Vergara introduces them methodically, allowing readers to become acquainted with each one. The narrative occasionally leans on the suspension of disbelief, yet I feel it remains within the bounds of plausibility.
Character development is a strong suit in this novel. Murdoch Firefax emerges as a complex antihero—his enigmatic and ruthless nature not only propels the storyline but also creates friction among the characters. In contrast, Cara Firefax serves as an emotional counterbalance to Murdoch, adding depth to their interactions and the overall plot. The storyline is well-crafted and paced, with the War for Independence casting a significant yet subtle influence over the events. The mystery woven through the narrative challenges the characters and keeps readers engaged, balancing predictability with emotional investment. The book concludes with an unforeseen twist, prompting speculation about the future of these intriguing characters.
Firefax is an absorbing read, deftly blending historical context with a family saga of secrecy and survival. Vergara’s narrative is both a cerebral journey and a heart-pounding escapade, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate historical fiction with a twist of intrigue.
Pages: 496 | ASIN : B0CFKHBYBV
Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen
Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen by Mary Schmidt presents a riveting narrative centered around Kim Dailey’s profound personal upheaval. The story begins as Kim uncovers a shocking truth about her husband of five years, leading her into a vortex of emotional and physical danger. The discovery of her name atop her husband’s ominous hit list propels Kim into an unforeseen journey of survival and self-discovery.
The novel is captivating from the outset, with Schmidt’s meticulous writing effortlessly drawing the reader into Kim’s world. The intimate portrayal of Kim’s life with her husband, Steve, and the subsequent unraveling of their seemingly idyllic existence is both compelling and emotionally resonant. Schmidt’s narrative deftly navigates the complexities of betrayal and resilience, making Christmas in Evergreen a page-turner. Kim’s character is particularly engaging, her strength and vulnerability painted with a realistic brush. The suspenseful elements, particularly the looming threat of assassination, add a thrilling dimension to the plot. Schmidt’s ability to intertwine themes of suspense, romance, and mystery is noteworthy, crafting a story that is as much about self-discovery and new beginnings as it is about love and danger. The novel’s detailed settings and well-crafted dialogue enhance its immersive quality. Each character is rendered with depth, allowing readers to feel a genuine connection to their journeys. The twists and turns of the plot maintain a gripping pace, ensuring that readers remain engaged until the final page.
Christmas in Evergreen is a commendable work by Mary Schmidt, showcasing her talent for creating a multifaceted story that blends mystery, thriller, and romance elements. It is a recommended read for those who appreciate a story that skillfully combines suspense with emotional depth, set against the backdrop of a festive season. Schmidt’s next work is eagerly anticipated as she continues to establish herself as a versatile and skilled storyteller.
Pages: 165 | ASIN : B0CRGH8ZVY
An Ace Up His Sleeve
Miami Vengeance: A Griffin Knight Conspiracy Mystery follows a detective looking for the killer of his friend whose investigation takes him into the heart of Miami and into the dark world of gang violence. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted to create a reason to get Griffin out of the Windy City. In order to do that, I decided that someone needed to die at the end of my fourth book The Windy City Terror.
How did you come up with the idea for the antagonist in this story, and how did it change as you wrote?
At an early age, I was big into video games, so that helped me decide on the name and hobby of the antagonist. I knew the villain would have an ace up his sleeve…one thing led to another.
How did you balance the action scenes with the story elements and still keep a fast pace in the story?
I just did it. I can’t stand books that are novel-length for no reason, and I prefer shorter reads. By keeping each of the books in the Griffin Knight series novella length, it helps me push through and get to the heart of the story, avoiding the fluff.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
Since Griffin is banged up as usual, I’m sure he’ll want to cuddle with his girlfriend Samira and relax. The next Griffin Knight book will be in Chicago, but I like to throw surprises at my readers, so stay tuned for what’s next. 🙂
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Opposing Griffin is the charismatic and ambitious leader of a deadly gang who seeks to expand beyond his tiny slice of Miami.
While looking into his friend’s suspicious death, Griffin becomes embroiled in a complicated web of lies, a cold case, and a spate of road rage murders across the city. Who is behind them and how are they connected? Was his friend really murdered? Will the truth ever come to light?
When the determined private detective faces off against an uncompromising enemy, who will survive?
LITERARY TITAN 