Blog Archives
Passion for Technology
The Ransom Enigma follows a former model and her husband, who move to Magnolia Bluff only to discover a blackmail letter at their housewarming party, leading her husband to become the key suspect in a murder case. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The simple answer is having parties that didn’t go quite right. For example, have you ever planned a big event that seemed to grow legs and get out of control? Things like the wrong catered food, not enough ice, partying that lasted way too late, police asking for the music to be turned down, or neighbors mad because your friends parked on their lawn? With our passion for technology, we chose a ransom demand, and it took off from there.
With engaging and likable characters and plenty of action, readers will find it hard to put this book down. What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
That’s a tricky question. We crafted many scenes to create the right amount of suspense. Lily gets the attention of a handsome European gentleman when Jo realizes her comatose husband is accused of murder. Developing the criminal characters was fun, especially with so many bad guys to choose from. We think readers will love chasing all the threads. We aim to have all the scenes play together to deliver a satisfying story to the fans and new readers.
Can you tell us about a book or author that has greatly inspired your own work?
Rox loves the storytelling of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, which she considers high benchmarks. Charles is a lifelong fan of everything Kevin J. Anderson, with a special emphasis on the Dune books where he collaborated with Brian Herbert.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for the town of Magnolia Bluff and the direction of the next book?
Breakfield & Burkey signed up for our fourth season with the Underground Authors to deliver another cozy mystery. Our esteemed Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles colleagues each provide satisfying stand-alone mysteries with their unique flair. We hope your fans will enjoy the entire collection of excellent stories. Our target for August 2025 is called The Flight Enigma. Stay tuned.
Author Links: Charles Breakfield | Rox Burkey | Amazon
Emails are sent. Lily offers to provide all the side dishes to complement the barbeque. Chief Tommy Jager bartends until the last guest leaves. The teenagers act as servers. Guests dance outside until the wee hours. Toasts are made to honor JJ and Jo’s dearest friends. Max the Labrador will clean up the crumbs.
After the last guest departs, JJ finds a housewarming gift addressed to Jo. She excitedly opens it and gasps with dismay. Someone left behind not a present but a blackmail letter. Jo crumbles into tears, fearing they must sell and never return. Her outraged husband swears to kill the wretched blackmailer. Unfortunately, the Chief of Police cannot unhear the threat.Two days later, the police find JJ unconscious next to a dead man.
Who will help her navigate this investigation?
Who knows the blackmailer?
All the world’s problems rest on her shoulders as her greatest love lies in a coma.
The Ransom Enigma
Step into the vibrant world of Magnolia Bluff, Texas, and prepare for a gripping thriller in The Ransom Enigma, the latest offering by Breakfield and Burkey as part of The Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles. With a fresh twist and high stakes, this novel promises to keep readers on edge. Jo, a former top model from Brazil, seeks a quiet life after the chaos of her career. Instead, she’s thrust into a whirlwind of extortion and danger. Alongside her tech-savvy husband, JJ, she becomes entangled in a shadowy game of blackmail. Breakfield and Burkey masterfully develop Jo’s character, showcasing her emotional turmoil alongside her unyielding determination to protect her family and preserve their idyllic life—no matter the cost.
The supporting cast adds richness and complexity to the narrative. JJ’s sharp business acumen and protective instincts are skillfully portrayed, offering a striking balance to his grounded, empathetic nature. Joyce, a believable and dynamic local realtor, breathes life into the setting, while Brandon, a former New York detective, brings investigative prowess to unravel the mystery. These characters are vivid, relatable, and integral to the plot’s momentum. The story unfolds with unexpected twists that defy predictability. The authors expertly weave elements of cross-border crime, small-town intrigue, and advanced technology into a narrative that captivates from start to finish. Magnolia Bluff, with its vivid descriptions and lively spirit, feels tangible and immersive, a town brimming with secrets waiting to be unearthed. Breakfield and Burkey’s approachable writing style draws readers in, combining sharp dialogue, dynamic action, and evocative detail into a seamless reading experience. The tension mounts with every scene, compelling the reader to keep turning pages until the smartly crafted resolution.
The Ransom Enigma is a thrilling tale brimming with complex characters and high-octane action. Whether you’re visiting Magnolia Bluff for the first time or returning for another adventure, this novel adds depth and intrigue to the series. For readers seeking the perfect mix of suspense, vibrant characters, and unexpected turns, this story delivers in every way.
Pages: 262 | ASIN : B0CZLGZRHR
The Lonely Prisoner
In The Lonely Prisoner, Michael J. Kundu crafts a compelling tale of injustice and resilience, shedding light on systemic corruption within the justice system. At 25, Michael Fletcher’s promising life is shattered after a drunken night leads to his wrongful conviction for murder. Sentenced to 26 years, he loses his youth, family, and future. Emerging from prison hardened by isolation, Michael begins to question the forces behind his ordeal. Why was exonerating evidence ignored? Why did the system fail him at every turn? With help from an unexpected ally, Michael uncovers a web of greed and corruption that orchestrated his downfall. Kundu’s vivid storytelling brings to life a harrowing journey through loss, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth.
Michael J. Kundu has a knack for immersing the reader in his protagonist’s emotional state. The opening chapter vividly captures the cold sterility of prison, painting a bleak picture of Michael’s initial shock and despair. This emotional rawness is a strength throughout the book. Kundu’s characters are well-drawn. Michael’s interactions with Jack, the night guard, are among the book’s most engaging moments. Jack’s enigmatic presence, marked by his piercing blue eyes and reserved demeanor, added a layer of mystery and camaraderie. I found their conversations a highlight, as they offered Michael (and the reader) a glimpse of humanity in a cold environment. That said, I feel the lawyer, Vincent, felt somewhat underdeveloped. I was left wanting more insight into his motivations and perspective on the case. While the tension between the defense and prosecution was palpable and made for a compelling read, some aspects felt a bit too dramatized. That said, the injustice of the trial is what makes the story so fascinating, and Kundu does a good job of stirring frustration in the reader—a sign of highly effective storytelling.
This slow-burning thriller unfolds at its own deliberate pace, immersing readers in its layered narrative and emotional depth. The Lonely Prisoner is a masterful blend of crime fiction and psychological exploration, a must-read for those who crave stories that linger long after the final page. Kundu’s work is both a chilling indictment of systemic failure and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Pages: 198 | ISBN : 978-1962987387
Spiritual and Reverential
In Black Yéʼii (The Evil One), a young man and his family find themselves the target of a deadly revenge plot tied to a Navajo deity. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wrote a book, Caught in a Web, that was published in 2018. At the end of the book, there was the secret- a made-up version of what took place in the house where 4 members of MS-13 were killed. The secret was the idea of three cops who, out of protection fabricated the story. As long as the secret was never mentioned or spoken of, everyone should have been safe. It was this final chapter in Web that was the springboard for Black Yéʼii. I felt it created a wonderful opportunity for me to develop another story, one with three converging storylines that mesh and join at the ending.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
It came organically. I’m a pantser, not a planner. I might have an idea of what I want to write when I sit down at the computer, but there are times when characters have a mind of their own and I follow their lead. The Navajo are spiritual and reverential towards the earth, and in particular, dreams, visions, and symbols. I knew about Yéʼii from my research. There are many, much like the Catholics have many saints. But the Navajo will never mention by name, or speak of Black Yéʼii because they feel if they do, they are inviting it into their lives. Black Yéʼii literally translates most closely to The Evil One, the subtitle of my book, and it is this evil that permeates MS-13 and other antagonists in the book that I draw on. In a scene from the book, George and Brian, two protagonists who are themselves spiritual, compare Black Yéʼii to Satan, and the evil he brings into the world.
I found the incorporation of Navajo mythology a compelling addition to this psychological thriller. What kind of research was required to put this book together?
Thank you! I appreciate your question. I worked with Navajo on words, Navajo phrases. I try in all my books to be as exact as I can be. Readers are quick to spot falsehoods. I worked with a wonderful woman, Brenda Hat from the Navajo Nation, and with the Navajo Nation Museum, along with various websites on the Navajo. I am a recipient of a podcast featuring a Navajo elder and his son as he explains Navajo culture. My interest in and love of the Navajo actually began when I started reading Tony Hillerman, who I believe was the first to incorporate Navajo beliefs and mysticism into his stories.
What is the next book you are working on, and when can fans expect to see it released?
My next book is tentatively titled Dead of Night, and because I’m still writing it, there is no release date as of yet. My publisher, Black Rose Writing, has been a wonderful home for my writing, and once I finish it, I will submit it to them, and they will determine the publication date. Dead of Night is another thriller-crime-mystery, and it takes place both in Milwaukee and in Waukesha, both in Wisconsin.
Author Links: GoodReads | Bluesky | Facebook | Website | Substack | Amazon
Can Detectives Graff, O’Connor, and Eiselmann find the killers and put a stop to the killing before anyone else dies?
Black Yéʼii (The Evil One)
Black Yéʼii is a gripping psychological thriller that plunges readers into the duality of love and evil in a small Wisconsin town. The story weaves between past trauma and present terror as Angel Benevides, his mother, and his friends made up of adopted brothers become the targets of a deadly revenge plot tied to the enigmatic and fearsome Navajo deity, Black Yéʼii. The book begins with a chilling home invasion and murder, setting the tone for a narrative filled with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and shocking twists. Lewis masterfully interlaces Navajo spiritual elements with the gritty realism of crime, creating a world where loyalty, courage, and survival are tested at every turn.
Joseph Lewis writes with an unflinching eye for detail. The opening chapter hooked me immediately, its brutal depiction of the home invasion was both horrifying and mesmerizing. His vivid descriptions made Carmen Benevides’s fear palpable, and the attackers’ malice leaped off the page. Lewis’s knack for pacing is remarkable. Each scene flows naturally into the next, leaving no room for filler. The dialogue is sharp and often tinged with an authenticity that adds layers to each character, particularly the enigmatic George Tokay.
The incorporation of Navajo mythology into a modern crime thriller is both unique and compelling. The concept of Black Yéʼii as a metaphor for the darkness within human nature is thought-provoking. I particularly enjoyed the moments where George reflects on his cultural heritage, it brings a poignant depth to the narrative. I felt that the supernatural elements were sometimes underutilized. While they added intrigue, I wished the story explored more of Black Yéʼii’s mystical presence rather than keeping it primarily symbolic. The balance of cultural richness and crime drama is a fresh take that sets this book apart. Angel’s tragic arc is heart-wrenching, and his vulnerability contrasts sharply with the cruelty of his attackers. George Tokay, as a central figure, is fascinating. His connection to both the spiritual and physical battles in the story gives him a unique edge.
The camaraderie among the brothers is a highlight, especially their moments of quiet reflection at the lake. These softer scenes provide a necessary counterpoint to the violence and elevate the story from a simple thriller to something more emotionally resonant.
Black Yéʼii is an intense and thought-provoking read that merges psychological tension with cultural depth. While its graphic content won’t be for everyone, those who appreciate dark, character-driven thrillers will find it hard to put down. I’d recommend it to readers looking for a story that lingers in the mind long after the last page.
Pages: 425 | ASIN : B0DH8P5TNV
Flat Out Lies
Flat Out Lies is an aptly named mystery thriller by Karen Grose. It is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very last page. Ria and Jim appear to be a typical married couple, striving to maintain a happy home for their two teenage sons. However, their facade begins to crack when an unexpected murder shakes their tranquil neighborhood. As secrets unravel, the foundation of their seemingly perfect marriage reveals itself to be a web of lies threatening to tear their family apart.
From the first page, Grose crafts an atmosphere of suspense. As readers try to understand the motivations of Ria and Jim, they quickly realize that the narrative is unreliable. Both characters conceal crucial information, transforming this mystery into a complex puzzle. With each chapter, new revelations about the characters deepen the intrigue, making it clear that nothing and no one can be trusted. Ria and Jim’s fear of their past actions being exposed leads to mounting tension and paranoia. Jim views Ria as increasingly erratic, while Ria suspects Jim is hiding something significant. The resulting confusion and uncertainty raise doubts about whether the truth will ever surface. Grose’s writing captivates and keeps readers on edge. Her compelling storytelling immerses readers in a world of secrecy and suspense. The plot’s numerous twists make it difficult to put the book down, as each answered question spawns new mysteries. Grose transforms readers into detectives, challenging them to piece together the truth.
Flat Out Lies is a deeply engaging thriller with a meticulously structured plot and well-developed characters. For anyone seeking a gripping read from start to finish, this book is an excellent choice.
Pages: 313 | ASIN : B0D4R9DP1X
Severed Echoes
In Severed Echoes, author D.V. Chernov weaves a compelling mystery centered around Detective Nick Severs, who stumbles upon a perplexing case. A tip from an old school friend leads Nick to investigate a suspected murder, initially disguised as a suicide. The story gains complexity as Nick’s friend’s honesty comes into question, and he grapples with a haunting, recurring nightmare.
Chernov skillfully uses sharp, succinct sentences to escalate tension, exemplified in lines like “woman’s startled shriek. Short, sharp, and clear.” This narrative style not only builds suspense but also immerses the reader in the role of a detective, encouraging them to piece together the mystery alongside the characters. Parallel to Nick’s story is Kat, engaged in a quest for retribution with the aid of the hacktivism group ‘f8sabitch’. The connection between their paths remains an intriguing aspect of the plot. The book’s opening line, “The boy’s skull cracked, and the sound made Nick open his eyes,” sets the tone for the unfolding mystery. From the outset, Chernov captivates readers with questions that can only be answered by delving deeper into the narrative.
Severed Echoes incorporates contemporary themes, including references to COVID, which adds a layer of relatability for modern readers. This novel is a compelling read for those drawn to mysteries, providing a rich blend of suspense, character development, and relevant societal commentary. Chernov’s storytelling is engaging, making it a challenging book to put down for anyone captivated by unraveling a good mystery.
Severed Echoes is an intricately crafted narrative that masterfully balances suspense and character-driven storytelling. D.V. Chernov presents a modern mystery that not only engages readers in a complex plot but also resonates with contemporary themes. The book’s strength lies in its ability to immerse the reader in the detective’s journey, turning each page into a step deeper into its enthralling mystery. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or new to mystery novels, this book offers a captivating reading experience, marking D.V. Chernov as a noteworthy voice in mystery fiction.
Pages: 348 | ASIN : B0B65Q8K78
Sovereignty: He Lied For Your Sins
In Sovereignty: He Lied For Your Sins, by Rhys Hagan, readers are transported into the life of Amphion, an ambitious Roman banker whose thirst for recognition and fame leads him down an unconventional path. In his quest for renown, Amphion conceives a plan that intertwines the resurgence of the city’s religion with his financial aspirations. His search for a collaborator leads him to an unexpected partnership with Jesus Christ, setting the stage for a narrative that blends historical intrigue with thought-provoking dilemmas.
As a piece of historical fiction, I feel Sovereignty offers a captivating premise that may provoke contemplation among readers with deeply held beliefs. Narrated from the perspective of the avaricious Amphion, Hagan crafts a narrative that is both accessible and fluid, inviting readers to ponder the delicate balance between morality and ambition. The novel challenges readers to reassess their perceptions of right and wrong, advocating for introspection over blind adherence to established norms. Hagan’s storytelling is marked by its neutrality, allowing readers to engage with the tale and its characters without feeling coerced. The author’s boldness shines through in his willingness to juxtapose fictional elements with real-world implications, encapsulated in the provocative assertion: “Luke if there’s one thing to take away from Christianity, it’s that faith is profitable.”
Sovereignty: He Lied For Your Sins boldly navigates a subject fraught with complexities, handling the theme of religion with the subtlety and respect it demands. Hagan’s prose is immersive, managing to be both unpretentious and direct. The characters are vividly drawn, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the narrative. Rhys Hagan’s novel is a compelling and articulate novel that deftly explores a contentious topic with skill and sensitivity.
Pages: 306 | ISBN : 978-1642049589
LITERARY TITAN 