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The Festival of Hungry Ghosts
Stephen Frame’s The Festival of Hungry Ghosts introduces readers to Big Bad Wolf, a private investigator who has left the malevolent fairyland to forge a new life in 1930s Los Angeles. Escaping a realm dominated by sinister elves, Wolf finds himself amidst the racially diverse and gang-afflicted neighborhoods of the city, where tensions run high. The narrative thrusts him into the underbelly of gangster life as he attempts to protect a Chinese family, leading to an unwelcome entanglement with local mobsters.
In his mostly human form, deprived of his fairyland magic, Wolf reluctantly takes on a case to locate a crime lord’s missing son. He is further complicated by an alliance with a female gangster whose flair for drama and chaotic tendencies add layers to the already complex situation. Frame’s melding of traditional fairy tales with a gritty, noir backdrop creates a compelling atmosphere that enriches the narrative. The novel shines with its rich tapestry of fantastical elements and well-crafted characters, whose diverse origins and personal quirks enhance the dynamic dialogue and contribute to the story’s vibrancy. Frame masterfully maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that each scene captivates and propels the plot forward. His skillful blend of fantasy, historical intrigue, and crime elements makes The Festival of Hungry Ghosts a notable standout.
This novel is particularly appealing for those who enjoy an inventive mix of genres—combining fantasy, mystery, and historical drama with a noir twist. Frame’s creativity not only drives the story but also embeds depth and excitement, making The Festival of Hungry Ghosts a compelling read for enthusiasts of diverse narrative forms.
Pages: 327 | ASIN : B0CW1BJ4X1
Her First Homicide Case
When Things Fall Apart follows a Native American woman who is a new homicide detective and encounters antagonistic coworkers leading to her working a murder case on her own. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My sister lives in Oklahoma and related an incident to me about the verbal abuse of an older Native American man by a group of white males. Using that incident, I created the young Native American female and saddled her with a misogynistic and racist male detective as a partner.
Kit endures discrimination and prejudice from her new colleagues while trying to adjust to her new position as a homicide detective while maintaining her cultural diversity. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Facing open discrimination and prejudice from her assigned partner was the driving idea behind Kit’s character. It forced her to have to deal with it in a way so as not to totally alienate her senior detective yet defend her heritage. How she responded to the complex and deeply troubling nature of her first homicide case rounded out her character.
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing or did it develop organically?
I planned the basic plotline prior to beginning the story then developed it organically as the story moved along.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, this is the first book in this series and I am currently writing the second one now. Kit’s next case will take her out of her comfort zone working in Fort Worth with leads which send her to Las Vegas. There, she comes face to face with a nemesis who seems to be two steps ahead of her. He will force Kit to make a dangerous choice.
Author Links: Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Scout’s Honor
Scout’s Honor presents a gripping tale of Eddie Kawadsky, who later transforms into Richard Austen, navigating a tumultuous life marked by crime and an urgent quest for redemption. The story opens with a perilous drug smuggling venture in Tijuana, setting the stage for a narrative that is rich in betrayal, ambition, and survival. As Eddie’s escapades evolve from risky undertakings to major criminal operations, he is forced to confront his morality and past ties, ultimately striving to reinvent himself amidst shady deals and his ventures into real estate.
John McNellis adeptly portrays the high stakes and moral dilemmas that pervade Eddie’s world, making Scout’s Honor a riveting read. The story is laden with suspense and is intricately described which immersed me in the intensity of the conflicts. The contrast between the gritty urban settings and the lush, perilous Mexican landscapes provides a striking backdrop to the drama.
The novel portrays a broad cast and tackles intricate interpersonal dynamics, which may present a rich challenge for readers keen on delving into diverse backstories and motivations. This complexity serves as a testament to John McNellis’s skill in character development. I think he particularly excels with the character of Eddie/Richard, whose evolution is portrayed with both authenticity and depth, making his journey a compelling highlight of the story.
Scout’s Honor is an engrossing exploration of crime, identity, and redemption. This crime thriller is written with a keen eye for tension and moral complexity. The vivid settings and the dynamic protagonist add layers of depth to an already compelling narrative, making this novel a rewarding read for those who appreciate thoughtful character studies intertwined with suspenseful plots.
Pages: 312 | ASIN: B0CTLNPS93
The Nocturnal Devil: A Griffin Knight Mystery Thriller
Literary Titan 2023 Gold BookAward Winner
Firebird 1st Quarter 2023 First-Place BookAward Winner
Pencraft 2023 First-Place Annual BookAward Winner
2023 Outstanding Creator Award Winner
2024 Reader Ready Awards Top Pick
Indies Today 2022Honorable Mention
2023 Best Thriller Book Awards Finalist
2023 American Writing Awards Finalist
When two women mysteriously disappear within a few days of each other, is it random, or is there something–or someone–more sinister at play?
Detective Griffin Knight was supposed to be at home recovering from the events of his recent investigation in Seattle, but his captain and police colleagues needed his help to find out what happened to the two missing women.
In New York City, there could be any number of explanations.
Did they run away? Were they kidnapped? Are they still alive, or is it too late?
Worst of all, could there be a dangerous new prowler in the city?
The clock is ticking; Griffin Knight must act quickly before someone else becomes a victim.
Literary Titan Gold Book Award – Fiction
The Literary Titan Book Award honors books that exhibit exceptional storytelling and creativity. This award celebrates novelists who craft compelling narratives, create memorable characters, and weave stories that captivate readers. The recipients are writers who excel in their ability to blend imagination with literary skill, creating worlds that enchant and narratives that linger long after the final page is turned.
Award Recipients
Frode Ridna and the Rumbling by M. Singh
Rendezvous with Evil by Deirdre Oliver
Wiser Now by Gayle G. Curtin
The Goose Waltzer by Samantha Leigh Miller
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Silver Book Award April 2024
Celebrating the brilliance of outstanding authors who have captivated us with their skillful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. We recognize books that stand out for their innovative storytelling and insightful exploration of truth and fiction. Join us in honoring the dedication and skill of these remarkable authors as we celebrate the diverse and rich worlds they’ve brought to life, whether through the realm of imagination or the lens of reality.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
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