Blog Archives
Raw Honesty. Nothing Contrived.
The Dancer and the Swan follows a woman navigating grief, memory, faith, and forgiveness after her father dies, who volunteers with hospice, where she meets a proud and enigmatic retired dancer. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Pauline Swanson is actually a recurring character from two other novels I’ve written. I every case, I’ve never intended to continue her story, but she simply would not let me be. This is the first time she is the main protagonist, and even as the author, I learned so much more about her that I never expected as the story progressed. Meanwhile, since she has always been a guide for others, I wanted to put her in a situation where she could once again fulfill that role, but also have the person she’s helping be strong enough to be even more of a guide for Pauline. That’s how Deborah Deneaux gradually came to be. Whereas Pauline carries heavy amounts of (largely undeserved) shame and regret in her life, I wanted someone she would grow close to who one also made some uncomfortable decisions, but who does not carry shame or guilt and instead has owned those decisions and were empowered by them. That’s how Deborah Deneaux was born.
One thing that stands out in your book is the depth of emotion that you bring to your characters. What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
Raw honesty. Nothing contrived. I wanted to make sure I wasn’t forcing my characters to feel or do anything simply to advance some plot point. I also didn’t want to minimize or over-sensationalize Pauline’s traumas, nor the complex situations DeeDee went through. I try to avoid extremes and easy resolutions. Most important—and most challenging—was to ensure I was representing the characters, their genders and their cultures—respectfully, appropriately, and genuinely. Too many times, I feel that characters in a novel become victim to the plot—puppets to the rising action and climax. As an author, I let my characters steer the boat through the storms they are facing.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
First and foremost, the power and indomitable force for good women have had on society. Second to that, this is a heavy exploration of guilt, shame and forgiveness—especially the very real difference between shame and regret, and how much not distinguishing the difference between those two things can lead to a life of self-punishment. In that same vain, how much trauma can wrongly redirect guilt and shame. But also, importantly, I wanted to try and honestly convey healing, growth, and acceptance.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
I will be revisiting an in-progress work that was put aside due to Pauline Swanson’s insistence that her story be told. It is about a veteran who owns a pawn shop in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who’s older brother left home at 17 and was never heard from again. When an item very personal to his brother shows up at the pawn shop, this character goes on a journey to retrace steps that will, hopefully lead to finding his long-lost sibling.
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Pauline Swanson is a recovering alcoholic who has dedicated the last ten years of her life caring for her estranged father who has just died. Now she’s ready to start living again herself.
Volunteering for a hospice program, she’s assigned to Deborah “DeeDee” Deneaux, a 76-year-old Creole woman in the final stages of pulmonary sarcoidosis. As Pauline learns about DeeDee’s sprawling life story—growing up in 1960’s New Orleans, her provocative adventures in 1970’s San Francisco, and her success in 1980’s Chicago—a bond develops between the two women. But Pauline’s past won’t stay buried, and she will need to confront the traumas of her own childhood and the mistakes of her youth.
Meanwhile, when Pauline meets DeeDee’s son, Raymond, and learns of his strained relationship with his dying mother, Pauline feels compelled to mend their fractured relationship before it’s too late.
The Dancer and the Swan is at once a historical drama against the backdrop of urban renewal and social change, while also being an exploration of determination and faith against the traumas of life as experienced by two strong, unique women.
It Still Mesmerizes Me
Upon This Rock is a genre-bending mystery that follows a gay American couple in Italy, as their vacation unravels into a gripping chase through ancient secrets, Vatican conspiracies, and personal reckonings. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
In 2014, my husband, Alfredo, and I went to Orvieto – sight unseen – having done a house-swap with a couple who had an apartment there. Alfredo and I had just lost our four best friends in less than 2 years. We were their caregivers, and were exhausted. We turned over our clients to a colleague for 4 months and took, what we thought, would be a sabbatical. On our first day in Orvieto, we were taken to dinner by an Orvietani who told us the true story of a young local deacon who had committed suicide after having been denied the priesthood on the rumor that he was gay. We arrived on the actual anniversary of his suicide, and the entire town, still, was talking about it. As someone who in my youth had seriously considered religious orders, I became both angry and obsessed by the story. At the same time, we heard of a local scandal involving a Catholic bishop who had granted use of one of Orvieto’s chuches to a woman Episcopal priest for her mainly expat congregation. When I found out that 500 years earlier Orvieto was where Medici Pope Clement VII fled following the Sack of Rome, and it was here that he received the emissaries from England’s King Henry VIII asking for a divorce from Catherine of Aragon, something “clicked” in my brain. The idea of a centuries-spanning mystery involving the Church came in an instant. I started writing like crazy – and doing a lot of research. The historical instances mentioned in the book – Etruscan, Roman, Medieval, Renaissance and WWII – are all accurate. Orvieto has seen a lot, and it still mesmerizes me. We visit annually now. Alfredo said to me once that actually “Orvieto itself is a character in your book.”
How did you approach balancing humor and grief in Lee’s character without losing emotional depth?
Grief is not linear, nor does any one person grieve the same way. Like all couples, Lee and Adriano share their own secret “language” and humor. So, it seemed natural to me, that even when speaking of serious subjects, they would still speak as they always did. Sometimes, humor entered in. Also, as a literary device, any story dealing with murder, political intrigue and suicide needs to have a bit of leavening. One of my favorite characters to write was “Lady Peg.” Just her appearance in any scene, I hoped, would induce a chuckle.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Ultimately, I think Upon This Rock is about redemption, and forgiveness. Without giving away the plot, every character in the book that is from Orvieto, feels guilt or responsibility for the apparent suicide of Andrea. Also, the protagonists have their own demons. Lee feels guilt over the loss of his family. Adriano feels guilt at the estrangement from his family. Every character in the book – including a couple of popes – has to face their own human frailty and ego. Everyone needs to forgive someone, and in turn, forgive themselves. Additionally, as someone who has friends who are suicide survivors, and also knows people who have taken their own lives, the idea of finding hope during despair is important. At one point in the novel, the number for a local suicide help line is given. It’s a real number – not a fiction.
What kind of research did you do to weave historical papal intrigue into a modern-day thriller?
The short answer is – a lot. I love history, all history, and I have a mind for remembering dates and characters. I spent countless hours reading, digging through Orvieto’s library; taking the train to Rome to go through the Vatican museum, and frankly, just talking to lots of people – historians, other writers, locals who remembered Orvieto’s WWII history – that was, and is, the most fun. It’s also the greatest challenge: stopping research and actually getting down to writing. There was a good deal of history that got left on the cutting room floor. If I’m totally honest with myself, some of the book is over-written because I just wanted to paint as accurate a picture of each period I described as possible. My new book, “Thorns of the 15 Roses”, is likewise inspired by a real event: a massacre during the early days of the Spanish Civil War in the small Andalusian town of Grazalema. It takes place exactly ten years following the events in “Upon This Rock”, and once again finds Lee and Adriano – now in his home country, Spain – dealing with a centuries-spanning mystery, and a current day crime.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
“An elegant, twisty thriller in which a gay couple investigates a mysterious suicide in a scenic Italian hill town. It’s not hard to imagine that this book could do for Orvieto what Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil did for Savannah.” (Armistead Maupin, author of the internationally acclaimed Tales of the City)
An American couple in Italy investigate the suicide of a cleric in the picturesque Italian city of Orvieto—and find themselves plunged into a conspiracy that may destroy the Catholic Church. In the stunning thriller Upon This Rock, San Francisco business executive Lee Maury and his husband Adriano come to Orvieto to soak in the city’s beauty and rich history, but Lee becomes fascinated with a local tragedy, the suicide one year earlier of Deacon Andrea, a much-loved candidate for the priesthood.
Growing obsessed with learning the truth behind Andrea’s death, Lee and Adriano stumble upon a conspiracy of terrorism, human trafficking, and a plot to destroy one of the Church’s most sacred shrines—all somehow linked across 500 years to Renaissance Pope Clement VII, who escaped to Orvieto after the sack of Rome in 1527. Before they know it, Lee and Adriano’s dream vacation becomes a race to save innocent lives—and not get killed in the process.
A Day Between Destinies: A Romantic Journey Through Vienna and Paris
Mary Alcock’s A Day Between Destinies is a tender, slow-burning romance set against the dreamy backdrop of Vienna. It follows two strangers, Luke and Isabelle, who meet by chance on a train and end up spending a single, unforgettable day together. What starts with a shared laugh over a runaway ice cream cone becomes a deeply emotional journey through music, art, vulnerability, and connection. The entire novel plays out over the course of one day, but the emotional depth and richness of their fleeting moments feel expansive, like a lifetime compressed into hours.
I was surprised by how quickly the story drew me in. The opening chapter, in particular, was immediately engaging. The moment a young boy accidentally sends his ice cream flying into the face of an impeccably dressed German woman is both humorous and vividly cinematic, chaotic in a way that feels authentic rather than exaggerated. Yet, it’s the quiet moment that follows, when Luke and Isabelle exchange a glance and a subtle, knowing smile, that signals the deeper emotional thread of the narrative. The dialogue throughout is crisp and engaging, witty without feeling overly constructed, and warm without tipping into sentimentality. Alcock demonstrates a keen talent for creating characters who feel genuine, and the natural rhythm of their connection gives the story an undeniable charm.
What stood out most for me was how Alcock made the setting an active part of the story. Vienna isn’t just a backdrop, it’s alive. From the glow of streetlights on cobblestones to the hush of a late-night café, every detail adds atmosphere and texture. When Luke and Isabelle share apple strudel after dinner, it’s not just about dessert; it’s about emotional intimacy, about savoring the moment. And then there’s the kiss by the river that felt sincere, tentative, and perfectly timed.
Alcock handles themes of hesitation, fear, and self-doubt with remarkable sensitivity. Isabelle’s quiet confession, “I don’t want to ruin what we have by trying to force it into something it’s not,” strikes a deeply authentic chord. It reflects a universal vulnerability: the apprehension that something precious might be diminished by the weight of expectation. Luke’s response is understated yet deeply reassuring: “Maybe the magic doesn’t have to fade. Maybe it’s something we carry with us.” In that exchange, Alcock captures the emotional complexity of tentative hope, and it becomes clear why their connection is so compelling.
By the end, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to either of them. This book isn’t about grand gestures or over-the-top declarations. It’s about how a single day, when truly lived, can change everything. It’s hopeful without being naïve, romantic without being cheesy. If you’ve ever had a “what if” moment that stayed with you longer than you expected, this book is going to tug at your heart.
I’d recommend A Day Between Destinies to fans of cozy, character-driven romance and travelers at heart. It’s for anyone who believes that sometimes, all it takes is one day to change your entire path.
Pages: 93 | ASIN : B0DWD2LV2R
Whispers of the Forgotten – Chasing Shadows
Whispers of the Forgotten is a blend of mystery, adventure, and slow-burning suspense, wrapped in a heartfelt narrative about legacy, danger, and hidden truths. The story kicks off in a cozy bookstore and quickly spins into something much bigger: secret societies, ancient cities, and a mysterious artifact called the Heart of the Ancients. When Evelyn inherits the shop from her grandmother, she doesn’t expect to find a hidden letter that flips her world upside down. But she does. And from there, she’s pulled into a quest involving a forgotten city called Elara, a shadowy group called the Circle of the Serpent, and secrets buried deep in her family’s past.
I really loved how the book opened. The atmosphere of the bookstore, dusty, warm, and quiet, immediately hooked me. That first chapter was magic. It had this gentle sadness that lingered. The letter from Evelyn’s grandmother was deeply affecting, so intimate and emotionally charged that it sent a chill through me when she read the line, “You are the only one I trust…” In that moment, it became clear the story wasn’t merely about solving riddles or uncovering secrets; it was a poignant exploration of grief and the weight of inheritance. The scene with Demetri, the cat, silently observing from the shadows, added a subtle yet chilling layer of unease. It was an expertly executed moment that signaled something was wrong without resorting to melodrama.
Evelyn is compelling, smart, and emotionally grounded. Her reactions felt real. She’s not some fearless heroine out of the gate; she’s scared but curious, which I related to. Dr. Magnus, on the other hand, I had mixed feelings about. Dr. Magnus is a fascinating character; reserved, enigmatic, and intentionally complex. His composed demeanor and precise language create an air of mystery that adds tension and intrigue to every scene he’s in. When he offers Evelyn $2,000 to examine a set of documents, it’s a striking moment that underscores the urgency and significance of the quest ahead. The ambiguity surrounding his motives is skillfully crafted, inviting readers to remain engaged and curious about his true intentions. Michael and Julia, by contrast, bring warmth and groundedness to the narrative, and the introductions of Mei Ling and Mark hold great promise. Evelyn’s descriptions of them suggest they will add both emotional depth and essential skills to the team’s dynamic.
The pacing is excellent, with creepy notes, mysterious figures outside the window, and family secrets unfolding like a thriller, but it started to slow down a bit once the full team assembled. The detailed expedition briefings and in-depth discussions between characters enrich the story’s sense of realism and complexity. These moments provide valuable insight into the stakes, personalities, and motivations of the team, allowing the reader to fully grasp the magnitude of their mission. The thorough exposition ensures that every piece of the puzzle is thoughtfully laid out, building a strong foundation for the unfolding adventure. I appreciated the journal entries and letters from Lydia. Those gave the story so much heart and mystery. I especially liked the one that warned Evelyn not to trust anyone, not even allies. That moment was especially impactful. It introduced a sense of unease that lingered throughout the narrative, prompting continual questions about trust and motive. It deepened the suspense, encouraging the reader to remain alert to the possibility of hidden agendas and shifting loyalties.
Whispers of the Forgotten is a book that sneaks up on you. It starts small, gets personal, then blooms into a big adventure. It’s not just a mystery about an ancient artifact; it’s about inheritance, grief, and stepping into a destiny you didn’t ask for. It’s perfect for readers who like their adventure with a side of introspection, and who don’t mind a little shadowy weirdness creeping around the edges.
Pages: 300 | ASIN : B0F4NG3CX9
What Happened To Him
Kundu: Prince of Riverton City is a coming-of-age tale that centers around a young man with albinism living in poverty-stricken Jamaica. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
From age 6 to 9, I lived in Waterhouse, a volatile part of Kingston, Jamaica. There were daily skirmishes over territory between warring political gangs, year-round. There was a boy about my age who lived in the house directly across from the one-bedroom house my family rented. We never spoke, but his grandmother would always yell at him for various things.
As a child, and even now as an adult, I find myself wondering what happened to him. Did he get out of Waterhouse? Was he a doctor now? Was he even alive?
I will never know the answers to those questions, so I created a life for him.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I needed to research significant events in Jamaica in 1980. It was an election year as well as a time of natural disasters and political warfare.
I sourced archival reports from the Jamaica Gleaner Newspaper and reports from the local police department. I also visited Jamaica six times in two years. I found myself driving on the outskirts of Riverton City at night, which wasn’t a good idea: it still remained a dangerous place to be.
I enjoyed the depth of the main character, Kundu. What was your process to bring that character to life?
I have a theory that everyone – every character – has felt like an outsider at some point in their lives: You’re short, have an odd accent, skinny, old, bald, dark skin, thick glasses. The character has to fight and grow if they are to live. I wanted Kundu to wear his peculiarity on his skin.
His difference is obvious, but his sameness, his empathy, his loyalty, bleeds through. To create Kundu, I imagined being odd, or different to everyone.
Emotionally, I had to make space for my twelve-year-old self.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m not 100% sure, but the second book of a Kundu trilogy could be next. Targeting the winter of 2026.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
In an atmosphere of incessant turf wars, classism, political skirmishes, colonialism, incest, and gang violence, Kundu is forced to make adult decisions too early in his teen life; in the process he will lose friends, family, and some of his own dreams.
Tidal Fates: Calling
Tidal Fates: Calling, the first in a new fantasy series by Thomas Usle, follows a richly imagined world where politics, prophecy, and personal legacies collide. At its core, it’s the story of Ira and his sister Esther, two outcasts journeying through a land filled with ancient secrets, divine mysteries, and brewing revolutions. Their quiet life with dwarven kin is disrupted by the rising tide of rebellion against an aging empire. From forest hunts to sea-bound voyages, and imperial courts to hidden temples, Usle weaves together high-stakes adventure and intimate struggles in a world where loyalty is tested and destinies are called.
What struck me most about this fantasy novel was its earnestness. The prose is lush, often poetic, full of rich description and a genuine reverence for its own mythology. At times, I found myself pausing to reread sentences, not for clarity, but to savor them. But it’s also wordy. Scenes that could be tight linger in their own ambience. I appreciated the care and attention to world-building—cities, rituals, languages, even fashion are all deeply thought out—but it did slow the pace early on. Still, I cared about Ira and Esther. Their pain felt real. Their bond felt lived-in. And their quiet dignity in the face of judgment made them easy to root for.
Usle isn’t afraid to tackle empire, identity, exile, and redemption all at once. He paints power with nuance—never wholly evil, never blindly good. I loved the tension between those loyal to tradition and those aching for change. The court politics were rich and layered, pulling me deep into the complexities of shifting alliances and long-standing tensions. There’s a lot to track, but it makes the world feel full and alive, like I was uncovering pieces of a larger puzzle. The villains stood out with their intense convictions, and while I had inklings of where some arcs were heading, that sense of anticipation added to the enjoyment. Watching it all unfold made the payoffs feel satisfying and earned.
Tidal Fates: Calling is a sweeping and soulful epic that blends high fantasy with an emotional core. It’s not a breezy read, but it’s a rewarding one. If you love the grand world-building of Tolkien, the political drama of Sanderson, or the emotional pull of Le Guin, there’s a good chance you’ll be drawn in here. I’d recommend it to readers who want to live inside a world, not just visit it.
Pages: 309 | ASIN : B0F36NHNVQ
No Shortage of Action
Keepers & Destinies: The Reckoning follows a grieving warrior with divine powers who faces enemies from both Heaven and Hell as she fights to protect the remnants of humanity. How long did it take you to imagine, draft, and write the world your characters live in?
It took about 3 years. Oddly enough, the concept came to me in a dream, which felt like a cheat code to fast-tracking some of the worldbuilding and character development.
What can readers expect from Book 3 in this series? When will it be available?
Readers can expect no shortage of action in a world that’s grown even more chaotic. The morally grey dance only continues as the fallout of our beloved character’s actions lead to more thought-provoking consequences. A lot of the characters’ arcs will reach what i hope is a satisfying conclusion.
I am anticipating a summer 2026 release for the final installment in the Keepers & Destinies trilogy.
Author Links: X | Facebook | Website
Tortured by a great loss, she strives to right the wrongs of the past, protect those she loves and establish a new balance of power on Earth. However, her own demons and doubts, coupled with the secrets and betrayal lurking at seemingly every turn, make her task near insurmountable.
Her enemies, the Fallen, are cunning, ruthless and formidable as they strike at her mind, might and heart. Their machinations and her thirst for vengeance drive her down a path that could spell the end for Andrea. She must rebuild her crumbling faith in herself, her friends and some unlikely allies if she’s to survive the snares of a post-apocalyptic world. Her destiny as Earth’s Champion and the fate of the human race are in the balance.
Note from the Author: This book contains some grueling realities of an imagined war between man and celestials. Dark themes associated with loss, grief and coping mechanisms are featured as this tale unfolds.
LITERARY TITAN 