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A Storyteller at Heart
An Eye for an Eye: The Mallet Murders follows a police force in Nova Scotia who would rather do anything other than solve the mystery surrounding a serial killer terrorizing the town. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I lived in Nova Scotia for seven years and was a police officer/investigator. The small town I lived in had many quirky and inspirational characters that I could use in the story. Moreover, a few of my police officer colleagues were so terrible at their jobs that they became rousing characters in the book. I like to use absurdist humour, and the serial killer Saul, a cat-loving psychopath, became a perfect antagonist for me.
How did you come up with the idea for the antagonist in this story, and how did it change as you wrote?
I knew a guy who had (what seemed like) a million cats in his home, whom he called “cat.” My daughters encouraged me to write about a cat-loving killer, as they were convinced that the guy was a tad “odd.” He was a nice guy in real life; however, writing a character into the story was easy based on his idiosyncrasies.
I found this novel to be a cutting piece of satire. What is one thing that you hope readers take away from your novel?
I am a storyteller at heart. Give me a topic, and I’ll make up a silly or slapstick story in the blink of an eye. I have held a few very serious jobs in my life, like policing and child protection—dark humour has helped me to maintain my sanity. Joseph Heller inspired me (Catch-22 and Something Happened!). I loved how he drew me into his narratives and colourful characters, making me laugh out loud. Few authors have been able to do this. Carl Hiaasen is one, and David Sedaris is another. The Monty Python team and their work NEVER get old for me, and laughter has been a considerable medicine in my life. In fact, satirical books saved my life in my teens. I wrote about this in my memoir, The Hate Game: Screaming in the Silence (by Gary Trew). Literary Titan also reviewed the memoir. I hope readers enjoy the story’s absurdity, knowing that the location, scenarios, and some of the characters were a very real part of my life experience.
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?
I wear two hats (or sombreros). I write humorous crime fiction and nonfiction (memoirs and other challenging topics like generational trauma). I want to write a sequel to The Man with the Pink Sombrero AND An Eye for an Eye. Two very different books—both absurdist fiction, yet with a commonality of humour. In An Eye for an Eye (the mallet murders), I have a sequel as the end of the story leaves the reader with many questions about the antagonist. Saul and his paramour escape the prison, obviously) and relocate. This time, his “partner” finds herself in a situation where she and the antagonist find joy and justification in their new “venture,” leading to more killings. The sequel may be called “Hello, Mr Pillow.” Enough said.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Chaos unfolds in Yeovilton County as a doctor is found dead, one eye chillingly missing. While the authorities turn a blind eye to the mayhem, former detective Daryl Smith is determined to uncover the truth behind the gruesome killings. He joins forces with Yvonne Sparks, a brilliant profiler sidelined by her colleagues, and the pair begin the strangest homicide investigation of their lives. As events unfold, a twisted cat-loving serial killer emerges, brandishing a mallet and leaving a trail of chilling clues: a missing eyeball, dismembered fingers, half-eaten cans of tuna, messages written in blood and vanishing purebred felines.
In this thrilling story, a quirky cast of characters takes center stage: a one-eyed Chartreux cat, a scandalous mayor, a book club-obsessed police chief, a seductive cult leader, and a detective who prioritizes bias over his badge. At the core of it all is a cold-hearted killer who puts the well-being of his cats above everything else.
An Eye for an Eye is more than just a murder mystery; it’s a wild and darkly comedic journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The outrageous characters will shock you and have you laughing out loud.
An Eye for an Eye: The Mallet Murders
An Eye for an Eye: The Mallet Murders masterfully exposes the dysfunction, mediocrity, and deep-seated corruption within law enforcement. Set against the grim backdrop of Nova Scotia, a serial killer lurks while the police department, rife with apathy, treats the escalating murders as mere inconveniences. Chief Kennedy, preoccupied with his book club and personal escapades, displays a staggering lack of leadership, swiftly declaring homicides as suicides and shelving cases as cold. Yet, amidst this chaos, the narrative reassures readers that not all officers have succumbed to this moral decay; a few still hold onto their integrity.
One of the novel’s standout qualities is its suspense. While employing dramatic irony, the author skillfully builds tension by weaving a web of mystery around the characters’ connections. For instance, Chapter 19 introduces Bobby Bobbit, and Chapter 21 shifts focus to the Poskett family. These characters vanish from prominence for much of the story, reappearing only briefly. This subtle threading leaves the reader pondering their significance and questioning how they tie into Saul or the broader case. The author expertly sustains this intrigue until the final pages, making the resolution deeply satisfying.
The portrayal of the police department’s shortcomings is scathing and incisive. More effort is spent scrutinizing Daryl’s clerical error during his application than on investigating the string of murders gripping Nova Scotia. Chief Kennedy’s incompetence reaches absurd levels, as he prioritizes recruiting book enthusiasts over capable officers to bolster his book club. Investigations are laughably perfunctory; if no leads emerge within a mere 22 minutes, cases are abandoned and marked cold. This gross negligence breeds public mistrust, illustrating the chasm between law enforcement and the community they are supposed to protect.
The story evokes a visceral emotional response, ranging from anger and disgust to morbid curiosity. Chief Kennedy’s flippant remarks at Dr. Hussain’s crime scene—where he muses about re-election and lobster sales—cement him as a detestable figure. Scenes such as the brainstorming session about the killer, treated as a light-hearted joke, are equally infuriating. Despite this, the author elicits unexpected empathy for characters like Saul. A poignant example occurs when Saul, seeking justice, approaches the Skank family only to face harsh insults. Moments like these reveal the depth of the narrative, allowing readers to connect with Saul’s plight while simultaneously lamenting the environment he must navigate.
This novel is an excellent recommendation for fans of crime fiction, particularly those who enjoy titles like In a Place of Darkness by Stuart MacBride or The Wrong Hands by Mark Billingham. Readers who appreciate dramatic irony and are captivated by protagonists unraveling mysteries will find much to love here. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions—anger, pity, and disgust—but be assured the gripping storytelling will keep you hooked until the very end.
Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0DPZT3KMB
Tuck, Cluck & Buck: The Quest for a Pup’s New Home (Tucker Tails)
Tuck, Cluck & Buck: The Quest for a Pup’s New Home by Hope Chambers is a heartwarming tale that beautifully explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and animal welfare. At its core, this story follows Tucker, affectionately called Tuck, a playful and adventurous puppy whose curiosity leads him to a life-changing journey. When Tuck falls from a truck and is separated from his human companion, he is left to navigate an unfamiliar world. Determined to find a new home, Tuck sets out on an adventure, using his keen sense of smell to guide him. Along the way, he encounters Cluck, a friendly duck, who offers companionship and support. Together, they embark on an unforgettable journey, soon joined by Buck, a skunk with a heart as big as his courage.
What makes this children’s book particularly special is its ability to foster empathy in young readers. Tuck’s journey is not just one of survival but one of emotional growth, teaching children the importance of compassion toward animals. The theme of pet abandonment is addressed in a way that reinforces the responsibility that comes with caring for pets while also encouraging adoption as a loving option for animals in need. Hope Chambers weaves rhyming verses into the narrative, adding a lyrical charm that makes the story flow effortlessly. The playful language enhances the sense of adventure and makes the book a delightful read-aloud experience.
One of the most touching elements of the book is its conclusion, which features a real photograph of Tuck along with his heartwarming adoption story. It’s a perfect touch that brings the narrative full circle. The illustrations are another standout feature. They are vibrant, detailed, and lifelike, capturing the expressions of both humans and animals in a way that radiates warmth. The camaraderie between Tuck, Cluck, and Buck is vividly brought to life, creating a sense of genuine companionship that resonates throughout the story.
Tuck, Cluck & Buck: The Quest for a Pup’s New Home is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book that entertains and educates. It encourages children to treat animals with kindness while also emphasizing the joys and responsibilities that come with adopting a pet.
Pages: 49 | ASIN : B0D77ZMJJR
Sally Mitts finds A Home
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten, by Shain Stodt, is a heartwarming and engaging children’s book that follows the adventure of a young kitten named Sally. When her family moves to a new house, Sally, scared by the noise and commotion, hides and is inadvertently left behind. When she finally emerges from her hiding place, she finds herself alone in an empty house. Hungry and frightened, Sally ventures outdoors in search of food, encountering a garden filled with butterflies, worms, and flowers. She is soon discovered by a kind couple, but her fear drives her to run away, leading her through unfamiliar streets and loud honking cars, further away from home and into a state of being lost. Sally, now far from her loving home, faces uncertainty about her future. What unfolds next is Sally’s journey at the shelter and her subsequent adoption by Fred Mitts.
The story, while beginning with a sad and anxious twist, evolves into a tale of hope and kindness. As a reader, I initially felt heartbroken that Sally’s family left her behind. However, the narrative took me through an emotional journey fraught with anticipation. The moment Sally met Fred Mitts, I shared her skepticism but was relieved and hopeful when Fred took the time to bond with her. His kindness and patience offered a comforting resolution to Sally’s ordeal. Children will undoubtedly be captivated by Sally’s adventure and will root for her to find a new, loving family.
The hand-drawn illustrations by the author add a charming and colorful dimension to the story, making each page visually engaging and enhancing the narrative. The illustrations create a soft and welcoming atmosphere that complements the storyline perfectly.
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten is an enchanting tale that children will love. The story teaches valuable lessons about kindness, resilience, and finding new beginnings. This book marks the start of what promises to be a delightful series of adventures for Sally and her readers.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CVJYN6DC
Curious Chris- Why No Flamingos?
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? by Cindy B. Witty, illustrated by Sally Garland, stands out as a particularly charming and insightful children’s book. The story, centered around Chris, a boy with an insatiable curiosity, captures the essence of a child’s imaginative world. Chris’s constant stream of questions, ranging from the mundane to the fantastical, not only entertains but also reflects a deep and relatable aspect of childhood.
The narrative’s strength lies in its portrayal of how Chris’s parents navigate his endless inquiries. They ingeniously propose a pet as a way to channel his curiosity, leading to Chris’s whimsical desire for a flamingo, or “falingmo” in his endearing mispronunciation. This choice is an imaginative yet grounded approach to dealing with a child’s boundless imagination. As the story unfolds, with the realization that a flamingo is an impractical pet, it takes a gentle turn towards dealing with disappointment and finding joy in unexpected outcomes.
The introduction of Angel, the sandy-colored Labrador, marks a significant shift in Chris’s journey. The gradual shift from disappointment to affection is handled with a deft touch, teaching an important lesson about adaptability and openness to new experiences. What truly elevates this book are Sally Garland’s illustrations. They do more than just accompany the text; they breathe life into Chris’s world, making the story more immersive and engaging for young readers. The combination of Witty’s storytelling and Garland’s visuals creates a captivating experience.
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? is a rich, multifaceted tale that delves into themes of curiosity, adaptability, and the joys of unexpected companionship. It is an excellent choice for children, offering both entertainment and valuable life lessons in a delightful package.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CFW25HT3
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