Blog Archives
Redemption of Even the Most Evil
In Firefax, a family of highly-trained assassins is left to contend with their eldest sibling’s maniacal behavior and two rival spy agencies following the death of their patriarch. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
I originally wrote this when I was 17 or 18, and I think a great many things inspired it, especially books that I enjoyed as a teen, like Treasure Island, the works of Patrick O’Brian, and Fyodor Dostoevsky. The biggest inspiration for me when I first came up with the idea and wrote it, was probably the book Demons by Fyodor Dostoevsky. I’d highly recommend it, especially if you want a much deeper exploration than I’m capable of writing of the darkness and absurdity contained within the human soul.
The Firefax family is absolutely fascinating. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I enjoyed all these characters! The most fun to write was probably Murdoch. His interactions with all his siblings and with Esperanza were very amusing to describe. I also had a lot of fun writing Istäni’s character. Cara was the hardest to write because she is such a deeply repressed individual, and what boils beneath the surface isn’t always clear.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wrote this book first as a teenager, and part of what I was exploring at that time was my own teenage angst after I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Louis’ suffering is honestly part of that exploration and hasn’t changed much at all since I originally wrote the work (though, just to be clear, the character Louis himself is in no way based on me). Then, it sat in a drawer for many years. I continued writing in the interim, including some other currently unpublished fantasy works, learning and growing as a writer. I finally took Firefax out of the drawer in 2021, during the delta wave of COVID.
At the time of the rewrite, I was working in the hospital, taking care of a lot of COVID patients, and it was honestly hell on earth. People died every shift. It was very hard. I talk a bit more about this on my substack here. Rewriting Firefax was an escape for me, and a means of survival during a very dark time, more than anything. That said, I find it interesting what themes others take away from it. I think a lot of what people find in the work they bring in themselves, and interpret through their own lens, as with any piece of art.
For me, the biggest theme I see when I look back at the novel is the idea of isolation, and how inhuman it can make people to be cut off from community and love and connection. But there is also exploration of how to overcome that, and the hope, perhaps, of redemption of even the most evil people through love.
Can fans of the Firefax clan expect to see a second installment? What are you currently working on?
I am actually working on a sequel to Firefax, and probably a third book with these characters as well. I wanted Firefax itself to stand alone; people can read it and be satisfied with that one book and its ending. But there’s definitely more to come for those readers who want more of these characters.
My next work to be published will be a historical fiction set during the war between the British and French and their Native allies over the Great Lakes Region in the year 1759. It’s called La Belle Famille, and the ebook can be preordered here: La Belle Famille, or you can wait for the official release on the 265th anniversary of the battle, July 24th, 2024. It’s a high-stakes adventure tale leading up to perhaps the most pivotal battle of that entire war. There are no assassins in it, but plenty more dysfunctional family dynamics and excitement.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Legend tells of a city of gold on a phantom island. The wealth of that city could end the American Revolution. But the only person who knows the island’s location is the world’s deadliest assassin. And he’s not giving up that secret without a fight . . .
The world’s oldest family of high-profile assassins, the Firefaxes, have been killing off dignitaries—and being well-compensated to do so—for centuries. The family is thrown into turmoil by their patriarch’s death and the return of their cunning, cruel prodigal, Murdoch. With their father dead, Murdoch is the only one who knows where the Firefax wealth is, kept on a secret island. But two competing intelligence networks in the American Revolution are bent on tracking down the legendary treasure to end the war, whatever the cost. However, these spy networks may have met their match in this wily, dysfunctional family of killers.
Pharo and the Murder at Smoke Lake
Pharo and the Murder at Smoke Lake, by Steve Skurka, transports readers to the year 1914, where the turmoil of the European war forms a stark backdrop to an intriguing murder mystery. In this historical context, Pharo Simmons, the dedicated president of the Sherlock Holmes fan club, finds herself embroiled in a complex investigation alongside the legendary author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. As the narrative unfolds, Conan Doyle, grappling with the mysterious drowning of a travel companion at Smoke Lake, encounters Pharo, who has traveled to Canada for an interview. Drawn into the intrigue, Pharo lends her investigative expertise to the famed author, setting the stage for a journey replete with suspense and unexpected twists.
Skurka’s narrative style is noteworthy for its clarity and the skillful weaving of suspense, maintaining a consistent tension that drives the plot forward. The setting of 1914 is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the story, adding depth and historical context to the unfolding events.
The novel shines particularly in its character development. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is portrayed with a richness that pays homage to his real-life persona, while Pharo Simmons emerges as a compelling protagonist. Her strategic mind and inspiring character add layers to the story, particularly appealing to young readers. The dynamic between Pharo and Conan Doyle is thoughtfully explored, offering insights into their individual characters and their collaborative efforts to unravel the mystery.
Skurka’s plotting is masterful, creating a narrative that is engaging and difficult to set aside. The pacing is well-calibrated, striking a balance that keeps the reader deeply involved in the unraveling of the mystery without feeling overwhelmed or disengaged. Pharo and the Murder at Smoke Lake is a commendable addition to the murder mystery genre, enriched by its historical setting, well-crafted characters, and a plot that captures and retains the reader’s interest.
Pages: 290 | ASIN : B0CVLF2PFR
Firefax
In Firefax, by Amelia M. Vergara, the American War for Independence serves as a vivid backdrop to a tale of familial ties, espionage, and moral ambiguity. The narrative centers around the Firefax siblings, who have been nurtured on their family’s Maralah farm with a unique skill set tailored for assassination. Following the demise of their patriarch, the siblings are compelled to navigate their complex relationships anew, while simultaneously contending with their entanglement in a dangerous game orchestrated by Murdoch, the eldest, between two rival spy agencies, Argonaut and Myrmidon, in their quest for the elusive island of Lubrerum.
Vergara skillfully merges elements of mystery, action, and high-seas adventure in Firefax, creating a multifaceted and engaging story. Despite a large cast of characters within the Firefax family, Vergara introduces them methodically, allowing readers to become acquainted with each one. The narrative occasionally leans on the suspension of disbelief, yet I feel it remains within the bounds of plausibility.
Character development is a strong suit in this novel. Murdoch Firefax emerges as a complex antihero—his enigmatic and ruthless nature not only propels the storyline but also creates friction among the characters. In contrast, Cara Firefax serves as an emotional counterbalance to Murdoch, adding depth to their interactions and the overall plot. The storyline is well-crafted and paced, with the War for Independence casting a significant yet subtle influence over the events. The mystery woven through the narrative challenges the characters and keeps readers engaged, balancing predictability with emotional investment. The book concludes with an unforeseen twist, prompting speculation about the future of these intriguing characters.
Firefax is an absorbing read, deftly blending historical context with a family saga of secrecy and survival. Vergara’s narrative is both a cerebral journey and a heart-pounding escapade, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate historical fiction with a twist of intrigue.
Pages: 496 | ASIN : B0CFKHBYBV
The Old Corsair
In The Old Corsair, Michael DeStefano introduces readers to Terrie Murphy, a naval intelligence officer embarking on her first assignment. Tasked with overseeing an excavation site, Terrie’s role is initially to safeguard any unearthed artifacts. However, the secretive nature of the discoveries quickly captures her interest, propelling her into a self-initiated investigation. As the narrative unfolds, Terrie uncovers a broader conspiracy involving the enigmatic Captain Tunney and the ship, Neptune’s Trident. This discovery takes on a personal dimension as it appears linked to the mysterious death of her sister a decade prior.
DeStefano’s narrative compels the reader to ponder the multifaceted nature of justice. Through Terrie’s journey, the story delves into the realms of moral ambiguity, legal intricacies, and the pursuit of retribution, underscoring justice’s imperfections and elusiveness. The protagonist’s determination to unearth the truth and seek accountability for her sister’s demise is a testament to her resilience and dedication.
The Old Corsair is marked by meticulous research and eloquent writing. DeStefano’s expertise in historical matters, coupled with his narrative prowess, results in a captivating and immersive experience. His attention to detail brings each scene to life with vivid descriptions and well-crafted settings. Particularly noteworthy is Terrie’s character development, which is portrayed with authenticity and depth. Her initial wariness towards new acquaintances, evolving into trust and ultimately, flourishing friendships, adds a relatable and humanizing aspect to her character.
The Old Corsair is a compelling blend of mystery and historical fiction. It engages the reader’s curiosity from start to finish, making it an excellent read for enthusiasts of these genres. This book is an exploration of the complexities of justice and human relationships, woven into a suspenseful and intriguing narrative.
Pages: 460 | ASIN : B0C8VQKDCY
Adventurous Spirit
What Happens in Montana follows a seasoned chef and gardener whose quiet life at a retreat is disrupted by the arrival of a group from Las Vegas, leading her to confront past heartaches and the resort’s supernatural secrets. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration came from my real group of girlfriends who I met in Las Vegas at a Mommy and Me Playgroup twenty-one years ago. These friends really do exist! They were so helpful in crafting dialogue. I could just ask myself what one of them would say in a certain situation, and I could hear their response. As for the crazy, run-down, haunted retreat, it exists as well, and I was brave enough to stay there by myself. It was just for one night, but that was more than enough! I wasn’t really sure I believed in ghosts, but after staying there, it is a definite possibility. I found the place quite by chance. My husband and I were driving to the lake a few summers ago and there was a detour that brought us near this retreat. It looks so majestic from the road, so I asked my husband about it because he has lived in Montana for over thirty years and so he knows almost everything about it. He told me its history as a place for celebrities back in the 20s and 30s. He also knew that its current owner turned it into a holistic retreat free of alcohol and that she had only had enough money to fix part of it up. Guests really do stay in just a small grey building next to the massive stucco building. The picture on the cover of my book is the real place, but you have to look closely at the spine and back of the book to find the part where guests stay. It is very strange! I thought it would bring out the adventurous spirit in the friends in my book, and I think it worked.
As for the ghost, it is said to be haunted by Simone. I used her real name, but all that is known about her is that she was a prostitute who was murdered there. I had a blast making up the rest of her backstory with the help of a ton of research. I was shocked to learn that eighteen percent of Montana’s original homesteaders were single women. I can’t imagine coming to Montana alone and building a little homestead, learning to farm, ranch, and survive in this harsh climate back in the late 1800s. Simone’s backstory adds a historical element to the book which I truly enjoyed learning about.
Can you share more about your process for creating such intricate and complex characters, especially Maude and the women from Las Vegas?
Well, I suppose I already talked about my girlfriends from when I lived in Las Vegas. We do reunions every couple of years, and while we’ve never actually done one at that retreat, we have gotten together in Montana and Vegas. They are the kind of friends where we don’t have to see each other often to know how much we care about each other. I also think that those friends you make when your children are small are very special friends. You go through so much as a new mother; loss of identity, loss of sleep, fear of failure, to name a few, that those people who are right there with you and support you are your lifeline. Like they say, “Write what you know.” So, these friendships allowed me to write authentically about how important these bonds are. As for Maude, I just love quirky characters. My grandmother was a spunky, tell-it-like-it-is kind of lady, so I thought quite a bit about her when writing Maude. She was spunky till she died at age 96. Unfortunately, she had a series of mini-strokes toward the end of her life, and she would be unconscious for up to ten minutes. When she woke, she said, “Am I still here?” She was a crack-up and so full of life up until her last day. I wanted an older voice of reason for the ladies at the retreat to balance what I knew would be a wild ride for them, so my grandma fit the bill. I also thought of Betty White for Maude’s character because I loved her spunk as well. The idea for Maude to be friends with the ghost just made sense to me because she is a loner, but even loners need someone to talk to, so her dog and the ghost were perfect for her.
How did you develop the supernatural elements in the story, particularly the character of Simone, the resort’s ghost?
Well, in addition to the historical research I did to make her character authentic, I did quite a bit of research about haunting. I wanted to know more about how and why ghosts haunt. I really didn’t want my novel to be hokey, though. It’s a fine line with the paranormal, I think. I love the idea of a ghost, but I didn’t want her to be overwhelming or unbelievable. I wanted the ghost’s presence to be subtle, just enough to keep it interesting. I wanted her to tell her story because that period in history is fascinating, especially the women’s side of the story, which hasn’t been told much. So, since I find strength in telling stories, I thought the ghost might, too. It was fun to imagine what it might be like to be a ghost and what she might want. How would she get these living people to do what she needed? It was a fun puzzle to solve.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
Despite quite a few of my early readers asking for more of these characters, that is not the direction I’m headed, at least not for this next book. Instead, I am doubling down on my love of quirky, initially unlikeable characters, and my love of writing dialog. This next one is called Harriet Hates Lemonade. Harriet is cranky, set-in-her-ways, and very opinionated. She is also quite funny, much to her dismay. She is the way she is because she was unwittingly abused by her husband. I am aiming to show the insidious side of emotional abuse in as light-hearted a way as possible. It will be big on character, especially Harriet’s, but also big on transformations, heart, and learning to find your way when you didn’t even realize you were lost.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
At a hot springs retreat in Montana, whiskey-swigging Maude, the nearly eighty-year-old chef, longs for the glory days when the retreat hosted martini-sipping celebrities instead of long-haired hippies who refuse to wear deodorant. Brooke, feisty, adventurous, and a bit reckless, proposes a reunion at the retreat with her best friends to get away from the chaos of her life with teenagers and the emotional aftermath of her postponed wedding. One of those friends, Tracy, has devoted her life to her children and her husband despite her excruciating boredom. But a long-held secret could cost her the most important friendships in her life. Haunting the place is a ghost who, in life, dealt with tragedy by turning to prostitution which led to her murder over 100 years ago at the very place they all are staying.
What Happens in Montana explores friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness with blunt truth and witty insights. Together, these friends learn to navigate empty nests, infidelity, deception, and poltergeists. Most importantly, they learn their friendship is strong enough to get them through it all.
Victims Tell Their Story
The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City, follows a group of five prostitutes who band together to stop a murder who is praying on working girls in a city that turns a blind eye to their deaths. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I began to imagine a scenario in which Jack the Ripper—whose 1888 murders in London were never solved—came to Buffalo in 1901 and picked up again where he’d left off, I began to do my usual background research. And I read a lot of books about the Ripper and about other serial killers, in hopes, I suppose, of figuring out what made them tick. I quickly gave up on that, and decided that I would never understand the mind of a serial killer—nor really did I care to. But the thing that gave me the critical idea for my book—and what makes it different from other ‘slasher’ books—is that I found that in so many of these serial killer biographies, the authors (intentionally or not) seemed to adopt a kind of ‘hero-worshipful’ tone about the killers, going on in lurid detail about their exploits, criminal genius, ability to evade the law, and so on. And all this while the actual victims of their crimes were treated as so much stage-dressing, their entire lives reduced to the single moment of a terrible death at the hands of a madman. And frankly that made me sad. So I resolved to write my book differently—from the victims’ perspective. I wanted to let them tell their stories, and give them an opportunity to reclaim—and proclaim—their full humanity, which had been stolen from them, first by the procurers and pimps who lured them into vice, and then by a killer stalking them as so much prey. I’m proud of the result.
I love that the protagonists are women who are typically ignored, scorned, and blamed for their own troubles. What were some driving ideals behind their characters’ development?
Thank you for saying so! I love them, too, for that very reason. In The Buffalo Butcher, all of ‘decent society’, from the cops to the common citizens, considers these young prostitutes (my protagonists) as disposable, unworthy, morally defective creatures. Yet in truth these “working girls” are some of the most decent, genuine people you would ever like to meet. They’ve known poverty and exploitation, and have endured aconstant drip of scorn from their so-called betters. All their illusions about what life ‘ought to be’ have been stripped away—and yet through it all, they have maintained a full measure of human kindness, decency, and willingness to put it all on the line—even to the cost of their lives—for a friend. I like to tell stories about real people—and these young ladies are about as real as they come. As such, The Buffalo Butcher is no ‘cozy mystery’: it’s a gritty, unflinching look at a part of life that perhaps we’d all like to pretend doesn’t exist—but for the sake of my characters—and my love and respect for them—I could not in good conscience turn away from depicting the sometimes horrifying reality of their circumstances.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
Being from Buffalo, New York, I’m fascinated with the history of the place, and its former centrality—once a kind of early Silicon Valley—in the economic and social history of the United States. And in 1901, the biggest world’s fair of all time, the Pan-American Exposition, took place in Buffalo, bringing eight million people to the city. No author could ask for a better setting! But here’s the more interesting part, the metaphor: the great Exposition ran for only one brief season, May through November 1901, and then all but a single building was torn down, and the glittering pleasure city reduced to rubble. Knowing that fate lends The Buffalo Butcher a slightly elegiac quality, which mirrors the lives, loves, and losses of the main characters. And, if I may add, this arc of rise and fall serves as a larger metaphor: as a young person, I witnessed my beloved hometown go through a similar decline and collapse—from boom to bust. But what is beautiful and triumphant, both in real life and I hope in the book—both for cities and with people—is that hope is never lost. Today Buffalo—a city that people once dismissed as a relic of the past—is once again on the rise, re-emerging refreshed and vibrant, and learning both to embrace its rich history and, at the same time, welcome a new and different future.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Current of Darkness, the next installment of my Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries, is to appear in April of 2024, and in it society sleuth Sarah Payne returns to confront a case of industrial espionage in early Niagara Falls . . . then, in October, my next off-series book, The Phantom of Forest Lawn, will be out. I’m pretty excited about both stories, and I hope readers will share my enthusiasm!
Author Links: Goodreads | Website | Instagram
Summer 1901, and the great Pan-American Exposition welcomes the world to Buffalo, New York—Queen of the Lakes . . . the Electric City. Eight million visitors throng the bustling boomtown—all of them looking for a good time.
While the Pan-American blazes bright, in its shadow lies a zone of darker pleasures: the Tenderloin District, a rabbit’s warren of saloons, brothels, and ask-no-questions hotels. In this sprawling vice quarter, fully as large as the Exposition itself, fairgoers can indulge their less innocent appetites.
As heat and swarming crowds choke the city, the bodies of prostitutes begin turning up, slashed and mutilated by a pitiless hand—their flesh carved with strange symbols. Their gruesome murders are a final indignity worked on once-hopeful young women.
Some say the killings are the work of the Devil himself. Others hint that the Whitechapel Murderer, Jack the Ripper, has crossed the Atlantic to resume his bloody career. Yet the city’s power brokers—afraid of any publicity that would harm the Exposition—turn a blind eye to the victims.
As the bloody summer wears on, only one thing is clear: it’ll be up to the working girls themselves to stop the carnage. And in The Buffalo Butcher, five of them will stand together to confront the killer . . . and to reclaim their humanity.
An important new novel by Robert Brighton, acclaimed author of the Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries.
The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City
In The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City, author Robert Brighton immerses readers in the vividly recreated world of Buffalo, New York, circa 1901, amidst the bustling backdrop of the Pan-American Exposition. As the city, aglow with the marvels of the Electric City, draws in millions of tourists, a dark narrative unfolds in the shadowy corners of the Tenderloin District, known for its less savory aspects.
Brighton skillfully weaves a tale of mystery and suspense as the city braces for a presidential visit, only to be shaken by a series of grisly murders within the red-light district. The victims, prostitutes, are found brutally mutilated, bearing cryptic symbols—a detail that adds a chilling layer to the narrative. Amidst fears of the impact this news might have on the city’s reputation, there is a palpable tension between the city officials’ efforts to suppress the news and the police’s urgent quest to apprehend the culprit. An intriguing subplot emerges as the women of the Tenderloin District, disillusioned by the city’s response, take it upon themselves to confront the serial killer. This twist not only propels the plot but also showcases the resilience and agency of these characters in a compelling manner.
Brighton delves deep into the theme of abuse, exploring its multifaceted impact on the characters. Through Helen, a central figure, the narrative poignantly illustrates a harrowing cycle of poor decisions and worsening circumstances, culminating in a profound portrayal of the psychological toll of abuse. The story is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail, both in character development and historical context. The author’s unflinching approach to the grittier aspects of each character’s journey adds depth and realism to the story. The pacing is particularly commendable; the story unfolds at a measured tempo, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world Brighton has created.
The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City is a gripping novel and an emotionally resonant thriller that masterfully blends historical authenticity with suspenseful storytelling. Its exploration of mature themes like murder, prostitution, and drug abuse lends it a gritty realism, making it suitable for a mature audience with a penchant for mystery and historical fiction. This book promises to keep readers engrossed to its very last page.
Pages: 328 | ASIN : B0CKS7P2L8
Motives That Lie Beneath
A Murder in Ashwood follows an amateur sleuth who suspects the murder of a prominent man in town is only the start of the secrets that are being hidden. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I think the most common reaction to any injustice is outrage, followed by a desire to shine a light on the people who try to shirk responsibility or shift the blame to others. In Ashwood, Sarah Payne had fallen in love with the victim, and since no one is officially held to account for his murder—and because every one of the likely suspects has something to gain from remaining in the shadows—she decides that it will be up to her to avenge him.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
I don’t suppose any writer can entirely keep himself from revealling something about himself in his work, but in my case if it happens, it’s entirely unconscious. In fact, I have a practice I follow quite closely: If, as I am writing, I ever feel that my personality, beliefs, or autobiographical elements are creeping into the story, I stop writing and go and do something different. Then I come back and begin again with a clean slate. I want to tell my characters’ story—not my story.
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
It never fails to surprise me how consistently shocking real life can be, so to my mind fiction ought to offer up surprises and shocks that happen just as naturally as a story goes along. Human beings will very willingly do strange and shocking things for power, money, revenge, or conquest — often without much, if any, thought to the consequences of their actions. Good fiction, I think, is both a mirror in which we can view human behavior, and also an X-ray machine that allows us to see the motives that lie beneath it.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next installment in the Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries, Current of Darkness, will appear in Spring 2024. It’s all finished and is with the imprint now, so it’s time for them to work their magic!
Author Links: Goodreads | Pinterest | Instagram | Website | Amazon
Buffalo, New York…as the remains of the great Pan-American Exposition are swept away, and the bitter memories of William McKinley’s assassination begin to fade…the city reels again, at the sensational murder of successful businessman Edward Miller, bludgeoned to death in his cozy den, in one of the city’s most fashionable enclaves: Ashwood.
But for all its glitz and glamor, Ashwood guards the dark secrets of its fashionable residents…including those of Edward’s estranged wife Alicia, her lover Arthur Pendle, and would-be detective Sarah Payne. Soon, they will all face a hurricane of courtroom drama, public outrage, and the behind-the-scenes scheming of cold and corrupt District Attorney Terence Penrose.
Meanwhile, those caught up in the most scandalous crime of a new century have reputations to protect…skeletons best kept hidden away in the tidy closets of trendy Ashwood…and plenty of reasons to keep the motive behind Edward Miller’s murder from ever seeing the light of day – a motive that only the victim and his killer knew…
Can justice be done…and the truth uncovered by the Avenging Angel Detective Agency…before a killer strikes again?
Find out in award-winning A Murder in Ashwood…the second novel in the Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries from Robert Brighton, acclaimed author of The Unsealing.
It’s as much a ‘whydunit’ as a ‘whodunit’ in a page-turning story that leaves readers wanting more.
Contains three original interior scratchboard illustrations by Mark Summers.
Discover the Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries…
Get your copy today!
LITERARY TITAN 