Blog Archives
In Dante’s Twisted Mind
Miranda Quinn’s life takes a turn from everything going great to everything falling apart. What was your inspiration for the setup of the story in Miranda Nights, and how did that help you create the dramatic ending?
I came up with the opening for the description for Miranda Nights early on…
She has a loving husband and a successful career- who says you can’t have it all? Miranda Quinn is living her best life… until she’s not.
I subscribe to the Whack-a-Mole theory of life. You resolve an issue and just when you think you’re safe… up pops a problem or complication or challenge- something that says ‘not so fast, my friend. Did you forget something?’ And even when you’re facing something really huge, little things still pop up and demand you deal with them. I wanted a happy ending and some closure for Miranda, Eric and their friends and family, but chose to leave a few things up in the air- jobs, health issues, etc.
How did you come up with the idea for the antagonist in this story and how did it change as you wrote?
I knew upfront that he would be someone from Miranda’s past with a grudge against her, but his background as a police officer and his fanatical views developed over time. The 7 Deadly Sins theme was fun to research and imagine how it would all play out in Dante’s twisted mind.
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
Much of my story and character development come from how my main characters react to or respond to the plot twists, so for me, they go hand in hand. For me, it’s all part of the fun of writing!
Will there be a third Miranda Quinn story in the future?
Yes- I’ve been busy coming up with new adventures and mishaps for Miranda. The third (and final) installment is in the works!
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Amazon | Instagram | GoodReads
It’s been two years since her legal advice TV show was canceled, but the former Assistant District Attorney has rebounded with a late-night radio show, Miranda Nights. When her closest friend’s teenaged son gets arrested, Miranda tries to help but the evidence against him is overwhelming. Following a family member’s medical diagnosis, Miranda begins to wonder if her ‘happily ever after’ has been canceled as well.
But the real trouble arrives when a persistent caller, desperate for Miranda’s attention, embarks on an all-out effort to get her to see the error of her ways. Threatening messages and slanderous social media posts escalate to break-ins and arson when a fanatical fan claims to be her only path to salvation.
Miranda Nights is a fast-paced, witty story full of hidden dangers, with a strong and resilient woman at its core.
Miranda Nights
Miranda Nights, by Gail Ward Olmsted, is a fast-paced and engaging novel that effortlessly weaves together elements of women’s fiction and legal thriller genres. Centered around Miranda Quinn, a former Assistant District Attorney turned radio show host, the story takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. The narrative unfolds as Miranda’s much anticipated legal advice TV show comes to an abrupt end, only for her to rebound with a late-night radio show. Initially, everything seems to fall into place for Miranda, with a supportive husband and a flourishing career.
However, her life takes a dramatic turn when her friend’s teenage son is arrested, and Miranda finds herself entangled in a case burdened with overwhelming evidence against him. Simultaneously, she grapples with a family member’s medical diagnosis, forcing her to reevaluate her happiness. As tensions rise, Miranda encounters a relentless caller who gradually becomes obsessed with her. This anonymous stalker resorts to increasingly dangerous measures, including threats, stalking, slanderous social media posts, break-ins, and even arson. Gail Ward Olmsted skillfully explores the hidden dangers that permeate Miranda’s life, emphasizing her resilience as she navigates through these harrowing challenges.
Miranda Nights excels in its superb writing style and captivating storytelling. The author deftly builds upon the cast of characters introduced in the first book, introducing fresh problems and dilemmas for them to confront. The interconnected storylines shed light on the difficulties faced in today’s world, particularly the repercussions of “sexting” among teenagers and the legal ramifications that ensue. The primary plotline, focusing on stalking and the violent consequences arising from a misguided sense of moral superiority, creates an intense and adrenaline-filled narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
A notable strength of this novel lies in Gail Ward Olmsted’s exceptional character development and meticulous world-building. The characters share deep, personal connections, illustrating their camaraderie in both mundane daily life and the extraordinary challenges presented within the story. Each character possesses a distinct and authentic voice, but the protagonist, Miranda, truly shines. Her blend of strength, courage, vulnerability, and emotional depth makes her a compelling focal point. Her growth since the first installment adds further dimension and relatability to the story.
Miranda Nights is an unforgettable, enthralling, and thought-provoking novel. The intricate plot, filled with surprises and mystery surrounding Miranda’s stalker, ensures a riveting reading experience. Fans of women’s fiction and legal thrillers will find this book to be an absolute must-read.
Pages: 266 | ASIN : B0C2ZT5K97
LITERARY TITAN 