Blog Archives
One For The Money
Ryan Hale’s debut novel, One For the Money, introduces readers to Blake Franklin, a former Fort Worth cop turned private investigator, in the first installment of The Blake Franklin Investigations Series. Despite failing the detective exam three times, Blake’s tenacity is undiminished. His transition from law enforcement to private investigation begins with financial backing from his uncle Lewis, setting the stage for his new career. Blake is quickly entangled in a series of cases involving a disreputable car dealer accused of scamming elderly women. His investigation reveals a sinister network of missing individuals, suspicious deaths, and menacing adversaries, escalating the danger as he digs deeper. As the situation intensifies with more lives at risk and a mounting body count, Blake’s quest to recover the stolen cars threatens to disturb a volatile criminal element.
Against a backdrop of vintage automobiles and nefarious activities, Hale crafts a narrative rich with intrigue and action. While Blake’s investigative methods sometimes appear hasty and lack refinement, reflecting his inexperience, these traits also bring a dynamic unpredictability to his character. His natural charm and commitment to justice are his greatest assets, particularly as the stakes grow and the case draws federal attention. The narrative is bolstered by a robust cast of supporting characters. Figures like the affable Sharon Longstreet and the formidable Madeline Bailey provide emotional depth and complexity to the storyline, enriching the reader’s engagement. Fans of crime fiction and thrillers with a penchant for classic cars will find much to appreciate in Hale’s novel. It offers a compelling blend of suspense, sharp plot twists, and a touch of humor that keeps the pages turning.
One For the Money is a thrilling series opener, inviting readers to follow Blake Franklin as he navigates the murky waters of private investigation. Ryan Hale skillfully combines suspense, character development, and action elements, making this an excellent read for anyone drawn to gritty, realistic crime fiction. Whether you’re a devotee of detective stories or a newcomer to the genre, Blake Franklin’s daring escapades and the vivid backdrop of this suspenseful narrative will surely capture and hold your attention.
Pages: 238 | ASIN : B0BW51BJZP
The Power of the Ascendant
Power of the Ascendant delves into the lives of superpowered humans, exploring their dynamics among themselves and those lacking powers. The story centers on Phillip, a man who grapples with understanding his abilities, his role in the world, and the divine plan laid out for him. Despite its religious undertones, this novel encompasses a portrayal of conflict, presenting a world with its own distinct religious elements and metaphysical rules.
The narrative combines elements reminiscent of Avatar: The Last Airbender and X-Men, creating a rich, superhero movie-like tapestry that delves deeply into its world and lore—a comparison the author Ris playfully acknowledges. This depth makes the setting feel like part of a well-established universe. As the primary protagonist, Phillip acts as a relatable guide for readers, navigating the intricate details of his powers and the broader universe. Power of the Ascendant maintains a consistent adherence to its own complex systems and world-building throughout, making it a compelling read for fans of superpowers, metaphysical exploration, and philosophical inquiry. Ris’s skill in weaving these elements together commands great admiration. While the narrative features dialogue that can feel formal and deliberate, especially for characters who do not use telepathy, this stylistic choice stands as the main point of critique. Yet, it does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.
Power of the Ascendant stands out for its ambitious world-building, thoughtful character development, and insightful exploration of its unique mechanics. Ris’s work is a testament to creative storytelling that enriches the genre, making the novel a worthwhile endeavor for those intrigued by the interplay of superpowers and philosophical depth.
Pages: 332 | ASIN : B0CYB2CT5Q
Casino Redux: Unveiling the Global Casino Network of Chinese Organized Crime
Casino Redux: Unveiling the Global Casino Network of Chinese Organized Crime by Anthony Cabot offers an insightful and meticulously researched glimpse into the clandestine world of organized crime in China and its global reach. While the common perception of Chinese organized crime might be limited, Cabot’s exploration unveils the complex and often unnoticed impact of criminal syndicates, extending far beyond the borders of China.
Cabot’s narrative style, rich in detail and intensity, transforms an exhaustive study into an engaging read. The book resonates with the intrigue of fiction, yet it remains firmly rooted in the sobering reality of the Triads’ expansive control. From foot soldiers to the affluent leaders orchestrating criminal activities, the author reveals the intricate layers of this underworld, operating just beneath the surface of everyday life and often eluding legal repercussions. A significant portion of the book delves into the Triads’ influence over the modern gambling industry, drawing parallels to cinematic portrayals like Scorsese’s “Casino.” However, Cabot’s analysis transcends mere storytelling. By dissecting the complex web of the Triads’ operations and their impact on significant gambling hubs such as Vancouver, Sydney, and Macau, he uncovers their endeavors’ staggering scope and profitability. Readers will find themselves enthralled by the depth of the underworld’s infiltration into seemingly innocuous aspects of life, such as tourism and entertainment.
Casino Redux: Unveiling the Global Casino Network of Chinese Organized Crime not only educates but leaves a lasting impression, altering perceptions of the gambling scene and the unseen presence of criminal syndicates. This book is a compelling read for anyone interested in the intricate dynamics of organized crime and its global implications.
The Roads We Take
Driving for Justice follows a successful lawyer who becomes a Laafia car driver. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration really came from observing the hectic pace and priorities of modern professional life. I was intrigued by the idea of someone with a high-stress, prestigious career making the unexpected choice to embrace a simpler, and more interpersonal job on the side. The act of driving, which is physically linear but can be emotionally and philosophically meandering, seemed like the perfect metaphor to explore John’s unexpected journey of self-discovery. It’s about the roads we take, the stops we make along the way, and the passengers—each carrying their unique stories—that join us during the ride.
John takes great pleasure in driving and meeting new people in his part-time job, learning their stories, and, in the process, learning more about himself. What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
Human vulnerability and resilience strike me as profoundly compelling themes for fiction. In Driving for Justice, John’s encounters with various passengers highlight these aspects beautifully. Each person he meets represents different facets of life—hope, despair, ambition, and regret. I find the concept of strangers opening up in the confined space of a car fascinating. It’s a safe space where conversations can veer into personal territories more freely, revealing the raw and real layers of personality that we often hide from the outside world. This setting allows exploration of how our interactions shape us and the poignant truth that everyone has a story worth telling.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Several themes are central to Driving for Justice. First, the themes of redemption and self-discovery are crucial as we follow John’s journey from a life he no longer finds fulfilling to one where he rediscovers his passion and purpose. Second, the idea of empathy and connection emerges as a powerful theme. John’s day-to-day experiences emphasize that understanding and kindness can have far-reaching effects on people’s lives, including our own. Finally, the theme of justice—what it means and how it can be achieved outside traditional frameworks—is explored through John’s establishment of a pro-bono legal clinic, highlighting his evolution from a career-driven lawyer to a community-focused advocate. Each of these themes challenges the reader to think about the impact of their choices and the potential we all have to effect change in our environments.
In Driving for Justice, several key themes shaped the narrative and enriched the story’s depth and complexity. These themes not only drive the plot but also invite readers to engage with broader social and personal issues:
- Redemption and Transformation: Central to the novel is the protagonist, John’s journey of redemption and personal transformation. John seeks a simpler life and redemption for past choices that may have prioritized success over personal fulfillment. His role as a Laafia car driver symbolizes his quest for a more meaningful existence, suggesting that true fulfillment often comes from unexpected sources.
- Empathy and Human Connection: The novel strongly emphasizes empathy and the transformative power of human connection. Through his interactions with passengers, John discovers the diverse embroidery of human experiences and challenges. These encounters serve as a reminder of the common humanity shared by all, regardless of their backgrounds or current circumstances, and they foster a deeper understanding of empathy as essential to personal and societal well-being.
- Justice and Accessibility: Another significant theme is the concept of justice, especially social justice. As a high-profile lawyer, John reflects on the inadequacies of the formal justice system in terms of reaching and protecting all individuals equitably. His decision to start a pro-bono legal clinic underscores the theme of justice and accessibility to everyone, particularly the underprivileged, and highlights individuals’ role in addressing systemic inequalities.
- The Human Stories Within the Urban Experience: The city itself is a backdrop against which various human stories unfold. The novel explores how urban environments shape the lives and experiences of its inhabitants, emphasizing the idea that every individual has a story and that these stories are worth hearing. This theme invites readers to look beyond the surface of busy urban life to understand the struggles, dreams, and resilience of those living within it.
- Self-Discovery and Identity: John’s transformation also prompts him to question and redefine his identity. The theme of self-discovery is woven throughout the narrative as John evaluates his past, considers his present, and makes choices about his future. This theme resonates with readers exploring what it means to live authentically.
- The Power of Small Acts: The novel celebrates the notion that small acts of kindness and understanding can have profound impacts. Each of John’s drives encapsulates this theme, as even brief interactions can illuminate truths, alter perspectives, or provide comfort. It illustrates how ordinary moments can lead to extraordinary revelations and changes.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently working on a novel. As I fine-tune the elements of these stories, considering various factors that will shape their final forms, I will soon decide on the final title and when it will reach my readers. I eagerly look forward to sharing this news with my fans. Stay tuned for updates and teasers that I hope will whet your appetite for the romantic journeys ahead!
Each passenger John encounters in his car brings a new perspective, revealing the city’s heartbeat and the complexities of human experiences. These encounters range from an ambitious college student wrestling with his future, a high-profile executive hiding vulnerabilities behind a façade of success, to a figure from John’s past who threatens to disrupt his newfound peace.
As John drives through the city, he faces his own internal struggles, reflecting on his past decisions and contemplating his future. His journey is one of self-discovery, empathy, and understanding, challenging his views on justice and humanity.
Ultimately, John’s experiences as a driver led him to a significant decision – establishing a pro-bono legal clinic to assist those who cannot afford it. This initiative brings together diverse individuals, including former colleagues and new allies, who share his vision of accessible justice.
Driving For Justice is about finding redemption and purpose in unexpected places. It celebrates the nuances of human connections, the impact of storytelling, and the power of empathy in navigating the complex world of legal and moral dilemmas. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most significant journeys are those that bring us back to our core values.
And Then There Were None
The Spire follows a New York City detective who is put on a high-profile case when four people are found murdered in a luxury penthouse. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The idea stems from the classic Agatha Christie mystery, “And Then There Were None.” The key difference being the setting – not an island but instead, a luxury skyscraper. The idea of a group of strangers being murdered, one by one. However, the concept evolved to more of a howcatchem as opposed to a whodunit. As well, the novel draws from the Jeffrey Epstein case, and is an integral plot element.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
I like to apply rules to my characters. In this instance, Mike Vogel wasn’t going to use his gun. This directly contradicts the classic American detective story, in which the gun is used to solve most problems. My approach with Mike is from the opposite side.
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?
The ending. In any novel, it’s coming up with a satisfying conclusion. This book was no exception. But, with a mystery, it requires something more. The reader themselves must have an opportunity to crack the case. And they expect the detective to solve it. The reader expects the solution to be complex. Not simple. Otherwise, they are let down. Which makes that the most challenging part of the writing process. At least it was for The Spire.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it out?
Although The Spire is the first in the Mike Vogel series of novels, the book I’m writing now is a departure from that. It’s titled The Special. The story takes place inside a cargo plane hijacked over the Atlantic. The captain is forced to play a cat and mouse game with the thieves while attempting to take back control of her aircraft. The challenge is being able to maintain momentum for the entire novel, while keeping the setting in mostly one location. It will be available in 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Website
To find the killer, Mike must use all of his investigative skills and grapple with his own dark secret, while searching for the purported sex tapes of the world’s most powerful men—videos worth killing for—and holding the key to the entire investigation.
Pursued by Talon—a shadowy private intelligence company—with ties to the U.S. government, and perhaps the killer too, Mike must uncover the truth about what happened that night in The Spire.
Once Upon A Crime
Once Upon a Crime by Alan Brenham dives into the complex world of vigilante justice, illuminating the perils of taking the law into one’s own hands. The narrative centers on Madison Chase, a detective entangled not only in a harrowing hunt for a serial killer targeting sexual predators of children but also in a personal custody battle, adding layers to the already intricate plot.
The story unfolds with Madison chasing a serial killer known from the outset as Penny Grimes. This unconventional approach of revealing the killer’s identity early in the story intriguingly shifts the focus from the ‘who’ to the ‘why’ and ‘how,’ pulling readers into a deeper engagement with the narrative. Brenham skillfully balances the revelation of information, providing just enough to propel the story forward while peppering the plot with sufficient twists to maintain suspense. Brenham’s narrative prowess shines as he weaves complex characters and tightly knit plot elements without leaving any loose ends. Detective Chase is portrayed with a blend of professional acumen and personal vulnerability, making her character both compelling and relatable. The addition of her daughter to the storyline does more than just add a personal stake; it enriches the narrative, offering a poignant glimpse into the personal drives that fuel Chase’s professional endeavors.
For aficionados of crime thrillers and readers drawn to stories of justice and ethical dilemmas, Once Upon a Crime offers a gripping, well-paced read. Alan Brenham’s knack for detailed storytelling is evident as he deftly navigates the moral complexities of vigilante justice, making this book a notable addition to the genre.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0CJLXT8ZW
Driving For Justice
In Driving for Justice, Justin K. Kojok weaves a tale of redemption and introspection set against the vibrant backdrop of city life. John Sanbian is a successful lawyer with high-stakes cases who takes on a part-time job as a Laafia car driver, encountering passengers whose diverse stories mirror the city’s complex human landscape. This shift in career sets John on a path of self-discovery, pushing him to confront his past, reevaluate his views on justice and humanity, and ultimately find deeper meaning in his life.
The novel adeptly explores themes of empathy and moral dilemma through John’s interactions, which challenge both his and the reader’s perceptions of justice. His journey from a lawyer to someone who actively seeks to aid the vulnerable—culminating in the establishment of a pro-bono legal clinic with his wife, Lila—highlights the potential for personal transformation and societal impact.
John’s character resonates due to his vulnerability and the universal quest for purpose, making him a relatable figure for readers grappling with similar existential questions. The narrative is enriched by the contrasts it draws between the idealism of John’s aspirations and the gritty reality of urban existence, underscoring the narrative’s message that individuals can indeed make a difference. The character portrayals in the book present opportunities for further depth and distinctiveness. Although John and Lila sometimes merge in their characteristics, this similarity prompts an anticipation of further development in their individuality. Moreover, while effective, the dialogue has the potential to more vividly reflect each character’s unique voices and backgrounds, enriching the narrative’s diversity and relatability.
Driving for Justice is a compelling exploration of personal and legal dilemmas, offering a thoughtful look at the intersections of life, law, and morality.
Pages: 439 | ASIN : B0CQ419FDH
Survive the Day: A Butnari and Hill Crime Thriller
Survive the Day is an intriguing entry in the ‘Butnari and Hill Crime Thriller’ series. It’s an adventurous crime thriller that captures the essence of human resilience and determination. Author E. A. Coe masterfully intertwines the harrowing journey of Carmen, a young Mexican woman ensnared in human trafficking, with the meticulous and high-stakes world of FBI agents Marina Butnari and Douglas Hill. Coe’s portrayal of the dark world of human trafficking and the complex mechanisms of law enforcement makes for a gripping and eye-opening read.
Coe’s writing is both detailed and emotionally engaging, transporting readers into the heart of the action. The depiction of Carmen’s struggle, juxtaposed with the inner workings of the FBI, offers a comprehensive look into the multifaceted nature of crime and justice. Coe’s commitment to detail is evident throughout the novel. While the storyline is compelling, the narrative takes moments to delve deeply into procedural aspects, adding a layer of authenticity and depth to the world in the novel.
One thing I truly enjoyed about Survive the Day is its portrayal of character relationships, particularly the dynamic between agents Butnari and Hill. Coe crafts their interactions with a level of depth and complexity that adds a rich layer to the narrative. For example, their efforts during the intense rescue operation in Las Vegas highlight their professional competence and subtly reveal their mutual respect and underlying trust. This partnership, underpinned by their individual strengths and vulnerabilities, adds a compelling human element to the story, making the characters more relatable and the plot more impactful.
Survive the Day is a recommended read for fans of crime thrillers and readers interested in the nuances of law enforcement. Its realistic portrayal of human trafficking significantly contributes to the genre, and its compelling characters ensure an engaging experience. This book is particularly suited for readers who appreciate a blend of action, emotional depth, and a glimpse into the workings of the FBI.
Pages: 376 | ASIN : B0CTRGZGNS
LITERARY TITAN 