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Twists and Turns
A Change in Destiny: Dark Suspicions follows an FBI investigator who loses his prime suspect and a key witness, causing him to turn his attention to the suspect’s wife, only she has an identical twin sister complicating matters. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for this setup on Book II is questions have been left unanswered from Book I.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I loved writing the Boots brother characters. They are complicated as you discover at the end of the book. If any were more difficult it was Brian. His story became more involved as the story progressed.
I felt that there were a lot of great twists and turns throughout the novel. Did you plan this before writing the novel, or did the twists develop organically writing?
The twists and turns…some were planned others developed. As an author, you may be heading down one road with your thoughts and plans, and then a left turn comes up fast and takes you in another direction.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
I do not plan to write another book for this series, however; I did leave it open to a possible one. I will need to sleep on it.
I am working on a book of short stories, and a new paranormal comedy/cozy mystery series, and have plans for a thriller/horror novella.
There will be two audiobooks released sometime this year, Dark Suspicions and my novella It’s for the Best.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Website | Amazon
Charlie is not alone in the spotlight—her mirror-image twin, Dani, adds complexity to the case as a potential accomplice. Brian suspects the twins are concealing crucial evidence. However, their formidable legal defense team hinders any progress. Brian is forced to conceive a risky strategy to uncover a more profound layer of criminal activity. He will deceive those closest to him to discover the truth.
Meanwhile, Charlie and Dani plan to protect their secrets, forging ahead despite Brian’s probing. His relentless pursuit of justice teeters on the brink of an all-consuming obsession. Will his dark suspicions lead to dark consequences?
A Change in Destiny: Dark Suspicions
Janet K. Shawgo’s Dark Suspicions delivers a rich tapestry of crime fiction, weaving a morally intricate plot with compelling characters. This multi-layered sequel thrusts FBI investigator Brian Deeds into a labyrinthine fraud case that spirals into unimaginable complexity. Adding to the intrigue are twin sisters Charlie and Dani Edwards, whose enigmatic bond and tangled secrets elevate the story to gripping heights. The dynamic between the twins kept me on edge, constantly questioning their motives and intentions.
Among the cast, Charlie and Dani stand out as the most intriguing characters. Their contrasting personalities—Charlie’s calm, calculated demeanor and Dani’s impulsive, emotional nature—create a captivating interplay. From the outset, the writing gripped me, vividly rendering their world with an atmosphere of suspense and unease. However, while the twins’ actions often drive the plot, their inner thoughts and motivations could have been explored further. In contrast, Brian’s character receives extensive development, painting a detailed picture of his obsession with justice and the toll it takes on his life. Shawgo’s prose shines in its ability to transport readers to vividly described settings, whether it’s the bustling streets of Galveston during New Year’s celebrations or the high-stakes environment of FBI operations. These richly detailed backdrops amplify the tension, serving as a canvas for moments of quiet reflection and explosive conflict alike. Themes of trust, betrayal, and obsession are intricately woven into the narrative, particularly through Brian’s relentless pursuit of justice and the unraveling of his personal life.
Dark Suspicions is a masterfully crafted thriller, brimming with unpredictable twists and emotional depth. The chaotic interplay between Charlie and Dani and Brian’s relentless chase for truth creates an irresistible whirlwind of suspense. Fans of psychological drama and crime thrillers will find themselves hooked until the final page. It’s a story that lingers, leaving readers both satisfied and eager for more.
Pages: 269 | ASIN : B0DK3SN4PK
The Bond of Twins
A Chance in Destiny: Dark Choices follows a devastated woman who is on a mission to stop her cheating husband from killing her and stealing her inheritance. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration for the story is the fact I am a twin. I wanted to show how strong the bond can be in families. Some siblings are extremely close and some are not, I chose the stronger bond.
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
When developing my stories, I do not always know where a plot twist will develop. It’s not something I plan, but when it fits the story, it fits, and I love my editor’s comment, “I didn’t see that coming.” I believe these can be specific to each author. Not all stories need a twist, but I sure enjoy adding them.
Charlie receives a life-altering shock when she discovers her perfect life is an illusion, and she has to find her inner strength to survive emotionally and physically. Do you think there’s a single moment in everyone’s life, maybe not as traumatic, that is life-changing?
Life-changing can be anything. We all have those moments, our first home, marriage, a baby, illness, loss ( personal, financial, or work), betrayal. Not every change is devastating, but the wrong trigger could set a direction you never planned to travel. My characters were lucky, it’s not always the case in real life.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have finished the next book in this series, the release date is January 2025. You won’t want to miss it!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Website
FBI agent Brian Deeds is assigned to investigate Charlies’ husband for bank fraud. When the possibility of his ex-fiancés’ involvement arises in the case, will his feelings override his duty?
In this gripping tale of deception and danger, the twins will use an outhouse, a pig farm and some very sharp knives to outmaneuver Jonathan and stay one step ahead of the FBI’s investigation. Will they have what it takes to make the dark choices to change their destiny?
A Change In Destiny, Dark Choices
In A Chance in Destiny: Dark Choices by Janet K. Shawgo, readers are thrust into a world where Charlie Edwards’ life unravels with the discovery of her husband’s infidelity and a sinister plot to claim her inheritance through any means necessary. Fearing for her safety, Charlie turns to her identical twin, Dani, for assistance. Together, they utilize their unique skills to dismantle the malevolent scheme threatening to consume them. Simultaneously, FBI agent Brian Deeds finds himself entangled in fraud allegations surrounding Charlie’s husband, blurring the boundaries between his professional duties and personal emotions, especially considering his past connection with Charlie.
This captivating thriller novel explores the intricate web of trust, loyalty and the extraordinary lengths individuals will go to when facing altering their destiny. The contrasting personalities of Charlie and Dani create a magnetic dynamic that underscores the resilience they exhibit in the face of adversity. As we witness Charlie’s transformation from a vulnerable victim into a strategic powerhouse, it becomes clear that her journey is one of profound empowerment. Dani’s unwavering support is a testament to the strength of familial bonds, adding depth to the narrative. The introduction of FBI agent Brian Deeds adds an intriguing layer of moral ambiguity to the story. Duty clashes with personal emotions, and this theme reverberates throughout the narrative, presenting our characters with ethical dilemmas that challenge their principles.
The gritty realism of the story’s surroundings, featuring an outhouse, pig farm, and razor-sharp knives, underscores the characters’ resourcefulness as they navigate perilous situations. As the twins embark on a high-stakes game of wits against Jonathan and attempt to stay one step ahead of the FBI, the novel grapples with the consequences of dark choices and the relentless pursuit of justice. The tension is expertly maintained, building towards a suspenseful climax that will keep readers thoroughly engaged from beginning to end.
A Chance in Destiny: Dark Choices is a riveting narrative that delves into human nature’s depths, showcasing its characters’ transformative power while challenging their very core. This gripping police procedural will have readers in suspense till the thrilling end.
Pages: 285 | ASIN : B0CF2BJVS9
A Very Dark Place Inside
The Bishop’s Palace follows a woman journalist in the 1890s who investigates a mysterious story surrounding the Bishop’s Palace and missing children. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for this book comes from my home in Galveston. There is a very interesting place on Broadway that was given to the Catholic church. The Gothic stone building has a commanding presence you cannot ignore. At night it draws you to stop and wonder at its magnificence when built over a six-year time period between 1886-1892. A Bishop did reside there at one time, and it is open for the public to view. It is a very dark place inside and left me with an uncomfortable feeling when touring. I discovered even though something can be beautiful, it can also be disturbing and possibly hold a secret. What a wonderful setting and plot for my story.
Morlanna is strong, intelligent, and a fighter. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Morlanna, my strong New Woman, for that time period. I built her on the ideas of women such as Marie Curie, and Nellie Bly. She could be friends with Caleb Carr’s character Sara Howard from THE ALIENIST. I looked back through history and discovered many women stepped forward to break the rules of a somewhat stiff society. We are better for their refusal to be ignored or frowned upon because they broke away from the norm of that time.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The main theme of the book is obvious…greed. I mean who wouldn’t want to find a palace full of gold and jewels? I tried to show how greed can blind an individual to the truth standing before them. I wanted my readers to understand even a Holy Man could be persuaded away from his faith for such treasure. Strength and determination are admirable qualities, but it sometimes takes friendship and a group working together to find a solution.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My next novel will be published by Black Rose Writing coming out on December 14th. A CHANGE IN DESTINY, DARK CHOICES is a thriller/suspense giving you a wild ride on how love can turn dark.
Author Links: Twitter | GoodReads | Instagram | Website
The Bishop’s Palace
Janet K. Shawgo’s The Bishop’s Palace is a captivating work of paranormal fiction that explores how a local mystery brings an entire town together. Set around a corrupt Bishop who sold his soul for the sake of greed, this gripping story revolves around the Bishop’s Palace and the treasure that lies within. The youth of the town, as well as several from neighboring towns, went in search of this treasure but never returned. The protagonist, Morlanna Miller, is a journalist trying to make a name for herself in the male-dominated world of journalism. Despite facing severe opposition from her boss and colleagues, she investigates the Bishop’s Palace and becomes trapped by the cursed Bishop. As the townspeople become aware of the situation, a sense of discontent grows, but will it be enough to save Morlanna?
Shawgo’s writing style is both strong and inspiring. Morlanna is a fearless character who fills the book with empowering energy. While the protagonist’s initial hostility can be overwhelming, her actions become understandable as the story progresses. The characters are well-developed, with the townspeople and the town itself beautifully reflecting the society of the time and engaging readers.
I appreciated the book’s representation of strong female characters. The book’s primary focus remains on the women of the town and Morlanna, and even the Bishop’s Curse represents the relevance of females. The story is incredibly empowering for female readers, showcasing Morlanna’s sass and courage while avoiding overshadowing her achievements with the male gaze. The Bishop’s Palace presents multiple motifs throughout the story. The city represents the oppression of women, while the country’s life portrays freedom of choice and influential women in society.
The Bishop’s Palace is highly recommended for readers looking for a fresh perspective on female characters in a suspense and thriller novel. While the plot may be clichéd in terms of a superhero bringing society together to destroy evil, the freedom and strength that Morlanna experiences in this story are incredibly fulfilling.
Pages: 148 | ASIN : B0B352THVW
Began As A Simple Revenge Book
It’s For The Best follows three generations of one family and slowly uncovers the dark secrets that they try to keep hidden. What was the initial idea behind this story, and how did that transform as you were writing the novel?
It’s for the Best began as a simple revenge book, but evolved to include the history behind Blessan. The story of Gean and Bo was not in the original manuscript. A good friend and one of my Beta Readers said it needed more so their story was added.
How did you come up with the idea for the antagonist in this story and how did it change as you wrote?
Billie has been and was always going to be the main antagonist even above Gean’s father. This novella was written because of Billie, all the other characters evolved around her.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Family, friendship, and love will be the first you see in the story, followed by greed, envy, deception, and plagiarism. The final is my very favorite Justice and Karma.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I have a new Thriller/Suspense which will be out December 2023, published by Black Rose Writing called A CHANGE IN DESTINY, DARK CHOICES.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Website
Leroy Grinder, owner of the Circle G. Ranch, and his good friend, Jackson Hellman, work with the one person who can stop Billie. Blessan Hackney, his ranch foreman. The trio must step forward to correct an injustice and save Glenmore before it’s too late.
It’s For The Best
In the town of Glenmore, Texas, Ambrose Glenmore is known for his wealth and ruthless dealings. His daughter, Gean, is to be his successor. However, she has reservations. She meets Bo Hackney, a local ranch hand, and they begin to date, but her father doesn’t know about it because Ambrose doesn’t think highly of Bo. Smitten, Bo asks Gean to marry him. Elsewhere, Billie Dwyer, Gean’s best friend, dreams of a life of luxury. And, as time passes, you realize she’ll do anything to get it. Will Bo and Gean have a happily ever after? Does Billie get the life she wants? And, will Ambrose get his daughter to do as he wishes… only time will tell…
Author Janet K. Shawgo has created a story with a captivating plot and intriguing characters. The characters in the story are well-developed and likable. Gean is sweet and brave, and her relationship with Bo is one that I was rooting for. Bo is sweet, smart, tough, and has an interesting yet sad backstory. Leroy Grinder, who is, in many ways, Bo’s father, is also a character that I enjoyed reading about.
The pace of the story is smooth, and the author provides just enough backstory for the characters to keep you hooked. Shawgo takes the readers on a shocking and emotional roller coaster, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
It’s For The Best takes readers on a suspense-filled journey as the town’s dark history threatens those who have kept it hidden. Janet. K. Shawgo immerses readers into life in Texas with characters that you will love and some that will shock you. I recommend It’s For The Best to those who enjoy a thrilling story that will have you on edge waiting to see if the town can be saved before it is too late.
Pages: 145 | ASIN : B0918T3PJD
LITERARY TITAN 