Blog Archives
The History of Mankind
Desert Guardian follows a young man on a post-graduation trip, who literally falls into a hidden world of illegal artifacts, danger, and unexpected friendships. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The grandeur and other-worldly feel of the gorges, rivers, and hoodoos of Canyonlands National Park provided the inspiration for the set-up of this story.
What were some ideas that were important for you to personify in your characters?
Ethan is a “reluctant hero,” dropped into the setting by accident, so one of his main themes was finding the strength to persevere, uncover the theft of ancient artifacts, and fight not only for his own survival but for that of newfound friends.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Our relationships with the earth, wilderness, and the history of mankind are themes in the novel. The thieves see the artifacts not as precious history but as something to be exploited. Relic, and eventually Ethan, see their connections with the past and the place that shaped it and work to protect them.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have a total of six Relic novels and am working on the seventh. It is not likely to be ready for another year or so.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Get ready for an epic adventurous thrill ride into danger and murder
A moonshining hermit. A campus bookworm. A midnight murder. Can an unlikely duo and a whitewater crew save themselves and an ancient Aztec battlefield from deadly looters? Ethan’s world turns upside-down when he slips off the edge of red-rock cliffs into a world of twisting ravines and coveted artifacts. Saved by a mysterious desert recluse named Relic, Ethan must join a whitewater rafting group and make his way back to civilization. But someone in the gorge is killing to protect their illegal dig for ancient treasures… When Anya, the lead whitewater guide, is attacked, he must divert the killer into the dark canyon night, but his most deadly pursuer is not who he thinks… Ethan struggles to save his new friends, face his own mortality, and unravel the chilling murders. But when they flee the secluded canyon, a lethal hunter is hot on their trail…
Desert Guardian
Desert Guardian by A.W. Baldwin is an action-packed adventure set against the vast and rugged backdrop of the American Southwest. The story intertwines past and present, starting with a flashback to a Pueblo ambush on Mexica warriors in 1224 A.D. This historic tension sets the stage for the modern-day narrative, where Ethan, a young man on a post-graduation trip, literally falls into a hidden world of illegal artifacts, danger, and unexpected friendships. After surviving a bike accident, Ethan is saved by Relic, a desert hermit, and the two forge an unlikely bond as they navigate the harsh desert and the shady underworld of artifact smugglers.
The author perfectly captures the wild beauty of the desert, making it a character in its own right. The descriptions are vivid. Baldwin writes with a clear reverence for the setting, and that love of the environment adds depth to the story’s more intense moments. The setting is well-crafted, but the dialogue and character development, at times, feel less polished. Ethan’s internal monologues occasionally lean toward melodrama, particularly when he reflects on his near-death experience, which may momentarily disrupt the immersion. Relic’s gruff yet wise personality shines through, especially in moments where he imparts desert survival tips or shares cryptic advice.
The pacing of the novel is generally quick, with moments of introspection balanced by bursts of action. The scenes involving the artifact smuggling ring are tense and engaging, especially as the reader starts to unravel how deep the conspiracy goes. Boss, the antagonist, is suitably ruthless, and his cold demeanor makes for a chilling counterbalance to the more humane characters like Relic and Ethan. The subplot involving ancient Pueblo petroglyphs and hidden trails gives the novel an air of intrigue that kept me flipping pages, wondering how all the pieces would connect.
Desert Guardian is an entertaining adventure novel for those who enjoy thrillers with a historical twist and a strong sense of place. Baldwin’s love for the desert landscape shines through, and the fast-paced plot will appeal to adventure lovers. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories about survival, hidden treasures, and characters who live by their own rules in the unforgiving wilderness.
Pages: 209 | ASIN : B08MB6XL8S
So Much Forever
So Much Forever continues the captivating journey of Phoenix, Curt, and Rose Martinsen as they navigate new challenges in their small-town life. Danbury masterfully weaves a tale that pulls the family back into a life-or-death situation filled with suspense and emotional depth. The introduction of Tempest as the antagonist adds a thrilling layer to the story, her obsession with Curt creating tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
One of the standout aspects of the novel is the richly developed characters. Curt emerges as a compelling figure, showcasing strength and dedication that resonate deeply. It’s clear why fans wanted more of him, and Danbury delivers by placing him at the heart of the narrative. Phoenix and Rose also shine, their relationships and individual personalities adding warmth and authenticity to the story. Pop Pop brings wisdom and charm, enhancing the family dynamic and providing moments of levity. Danbury’s writing is technically proficient, with seamless pacing and transitions that make the substantial length of the book fly by. The word choice is precise and evocative, painting vivid scenes that immerse the reader fully into the Martinsens’ world. The blend of action, emotion, and character development is handled with skill, ensuring that each element enhances the others. Tempest serves as an excellent villain—complex and unpredictable. Her interactions with the main characters add intrigue and propel the plot forward in unexpected ways. The exploration of her background provides depth, making her more than just an adversary but a fully realized character with motivations that add to the story’s richness.
So Much Forever is a thrilling and emotionally engaging novel that showcases Danbury’s talents as an author. It builds upon the previous entries in the series while also standing strong on its own, making it accessible to new readers. The combination of a compelling plot, well-developed characters, and proficient writing makes this book a rewarding read that will leave fans eagerly anticipating what comes next for the Martinsen family.
Pages: 485 | ASIN : B0D9CB79CX
A Global Problem Ignored
Love in the Shadows follows a woman determined to escape the cycle of abuse who sets out to exact justice on the men who perpetrate it. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
During research for my Emmy-winning CBS documentary, The Abused Woman, it became apparent that marital, physical, verbal and psychological abuse had no class, race, religion or age boundaries. The powerful have preyed on the weak and helpless throughout history. This global problem was either ignored or dismissed just so long as you’re not among those being brutalized. My research for the documentary revealed a world of hidden habitats in which mostly unpaid volunteer women and men provided safe havens for victims on the run from their abusers.
It seemed like you took your time in building the characters and the story to great emotional effect. How did you manage the pacing of the story while keeping readers engaged?
The pacing was provided by the characters, all of whom were fictional representations of those I had interviewed for my book, “The Battered Rich,” published by Ashley Books and unfortunately out of print. If I couldn’t hold the interest of my readers by telling the victims’ stories truthfully along with the incisive comments from psychiatrists, therapists and police, I was the wrong author for this book.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
I learned there was a cottage industry of cosmetologists who padded their income by teaching rich abused women how to disguise their bruises from friends and the public. A bigger surprise was to hear for the first time from a psychiatrist the term, “messiah complex,” which applied to surgeons who were non-verbal, god-like figures in the operating room but couldn’t handle highly educated wives who were socially and verbally their superiors. Physical violence often became their only recourse.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
It is another noir, historically based crime thriller. Although Newark remains the launching pad for the novel, I am creating a fictional city in the upper Midwest that like Newark, profited greatly during WW2 but in the late-1940s was socially and economically adrift with the closure of the massive war-time industries, and as a result became easy prey for the mob-controlled labor unions whose original instructions were provided by the legendary Jimmy Hoffa. With any luck and remaining in good health, I hope to have the final completed in 2026.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website 1 | Website 2
One woman used her fists to fight back, driving her abusive husband from their home. Four physically abused women enlist a mafia gangster in a crazy scheme to payback powerful men who escaped punishment despite years of brutal behavior. Newark’s Police Homicide Chief is astonished to discover there is no difference in the battery and mayhem affecting the rich and poor.
A rich and beautiful woman, physically and mentally abused, goes on a three-continent search after her wealthy German aristocrat husband fatally beat a household member she had loved since childhood. Also tracking the husband are two anonymous international killers hired by the mafia because for years he had been embezzling millions of gangster money earned by investing in Nazi companies. Throughout the book it becomes obvious that evil works in the shadows.
Homecoming Queen: A Small Town Political Thriller
Homecoming Queen by Chad Boudreaux is a gripping political thriller set in the small, turbulent town of Miranda, Texas. The story centers on Anika Raven, a determined woman who returns to her hometown to rescue her younger sister from a neglectful and dangerous home environment. Along the way, Anika uncovers dark secrets about the town, its people, and herself, all while navigating a landscape fraught with political corruption, personal vendettas, and a brewing natural disaster.
Boudreaux’s writing is compelling and immersive, capturing the essence of small-town life with a flair for suspense and drama. The prologue sets the tone with an eerie interview, hinting at the town’s sinister undercurrents. The characters are well-developed, each with their own flaws and motivations, making them feel real and relatable. Anika’s fierce determination and vulnerability make her a protagonist you can root for, even as she grapples with her own demons. One of the standout elements of the book is its vivid depiction of Miranda. The town itself feels like a character, with its rich history, unique culture, and a palpable sense of foreboding. The interplay between the town’s past and present adds depth to the narrative, making the reader feel as though they are uncovering the town’s secrets alongside Anika. Boudreaux’s attention to detail, from the dilapidated homes of the Lower West Side to the opulent residences of the Upper East Side, paints a vivid picture of a community on the brink. Scotty Mathis, the antagonist, effectively drives the plot forward with his clear-cut villainy, keeping the story engaging and fast-paced. Anika’s journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is about saving her sister. The book raises important questions about the lengths one will go to protect loved ones and the sacrifices that come with it. Boudreaux masterfully weaves these themes into a fast-paced plot that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
Homecoming Queen is a compelling read for fans of political thrillers and small-town dramas. Chad Boudreaux delivers a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with well-crafted characters and a richly detailed setting. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of suspense, action, and emotional depth. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling page-turner or a story that delves into the complexities of human relationships, this is a novel that will not disappoint.
Pages: 344 | ISBN : 1636983677
Personal Traumas
In The Revenge Paradox, a college dropout’s plan for revenge backfires after he sells the gun he stole from his stepfather to a questionable character. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Years ago, I saw a national news story about a young man whose parents were so frustrated by his refusal to contribute to the household that they had him legally evicted from their home. It got me wondering what might happen if a person in similar circumstances became so distraught that they vowed to get revenge. I used that “What if…?” question as a jumping-off point for the creation of a deeper fictional story that explores how the personal traumas that occur in a child’s early life can later drive their actions into unexpected and potentially dangerous territory.
Did you create an outline for the characters in the story before you started writing, or did the characters’ personalities grow organically as you were writing?
I create short bios for each of my main characters, along with stock photos that I pull from the internet. The bios include details of the character’s upbringing, education, and career path, as well as hobbies, sports, and other interests. I then zero in on the psychological aspects of their personality: what does this person desire, what are his greatest fears, and how does he react to the joys and stresses in his life? And most importantly, why? A person’s hidden fears and heartfelt desires are often a strong motivation for their behavior.
Do you have a favorite scene in the book? One that you especially enjoyed writing?
I had a great time writing the scene in which the husband and wife, Mitchell and Debra, are questioned by the police after an unknown assailant breaks into their home. They are each concealing information from the other, and trying hard not to tip off the police that they know more than they’re telling. It’s a tense and compelling scene that’s loaded with deception and innuendo.
What is the next book fans can look forward to seeing from you?
Next up is Mango Republic, a zany and darkly funny tale of suspense about an earnest but clueless young husband who gets caught in the crossfire between his overbearing father-in-law, a hell-on-wheels ex-girlfriend, and a wealthy resort owner with criminal connections. For a change of pace, this one’s set on the Gulf coast of Florida, where danger lurks in the mangroves!
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
College dropout-turned-Amazon reseller Rudy Hodgens vows revenge when his parents evict him for refusing to get a real job and generally being a slacker. If it weren’t for his friend Fudgie offering him a place to crash, he’d be on the street. Good thing he stole his stepfather’s gun before he moved out.
Rudy thinks he’s onto a promising new business venture when he sells the gun to a shady acquaintance who’s eager for as much illicit merchandise as Rudy can supply. Plus there’s Laci, the alluring pink-haired girl he recently met at the bus stop. They begin dating, and Laci persuades Rudy to return to school. All of a sudden, life’s looking up.
But the stolen gun triggers a chain of events that threaten to derail Rudy’s newfound happiness, and his desire for vengeance takes a violent turn. Only Laci can save him from his worst impulses, but there’s a catch—Laci’s secretly out for revenge too, and Rudy’s standing in her way.
The Revenge Paradox
In The Revenge Paradox, Buttner surpasses expectations, delivering a thriller that is both captivating and meticulously crafted. Her innovative approach and superb writing elevate the book, making it a standout in the genre. The plot is a remarkable blend of family drama, suspense, and mystery, demonstrating Buttner’s skill in crafting a compelling narrative. Her ability to weave intricate details into the fabric of the story not only captivates but also lends authenticity to this fictional tale.
Pages: 268 | ASIN : B0D5WXX7WP
The Daughter Between Them
Leslie Graham, an accomplished news editor, leads a fulfilling life in California with her two daughters, Jillian and Rhonda. Despite her contentment, the shadows of her past still loom over her. As Leslie pursues a promotion and her daughters gain independence, their lives are suddenly jeopardized when the girls are involved in a hit-and-run incident. Leslie starts to believe that their past is not entirely behind them and is prepared to do whatever it takes to protect her daughters, even if it means confronting old ghosts.
The Daughter Between Them by Alretha Thomas is a fast-paced crime thriller that captivates from the first page to the last. Spanning just over 300 pages, the novel reads quickly, thanks to Thomas’s skillful establishment of the central mystery and the escalating drama that leads to an exhilarating reveal and a satisfying conclusion. From the outset, Leslie is portrayed as a driven and capable mother and professional, yet she harbors a palpable fear rooted in her past. Her anxieties are validated when Jillian and Rhonda are targeted in a hit-and-run.
As Leslie grapples with the enigma of their attacker, readers are introduced to Barbara’s narrative from ten years earlier. Barbara, who initially appears to be a protective mother to her daughter Nancy, gradually reveals herself to be less sympathetic than she seems. The stories of Leslie and Barbara intertwine and eventually converge seamlessly. The dual perspectives and timelines are handled adeptly, enhancing the narrative’s depth and engagement. While mostly clear, the settings add an element of surprise and discovery. For example, a late excursion to a theme park starts with the intrigue of a mountain campground before the appearance of rides, and the eventual naming of the park clarifies the scene.
The Daughter Between Them is a compelling thriller that maintains its intrigue and excitement throughout. Thomas has crafted a convincing and consistently enjoyable read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0D1JR9N8W
LITERARY TITAN 