Blog Archives
The Spire
Set against the backdrop of New York City’s contrasting landscapes, Shaun Goldsmith’s The Spire delves into the dichotomy of a metropolis that is both a tourist’s paradise and a locale with a darker, hidden side. The narrative follows veteran detective Mike Vogel as he navigates through the complexities of a double homicide in The Spire, a symbol of affluence in Midtown Manhattan. Characterized by his formidable ego, Vogel faces a convoluted case teeming with an abundance of suspects, pushing his detective skills to their limits.
Goldsmith’s writing style is notably brisk and impactful, characterized by straightforward sentences that convey a certain ‘too-cool-for-school’ attitude commonly found in notable works of the cops-and-robbers narrative. The influence of revered authors such as Elmore Leonard and Raymond Chandler is palpable, with Goldsmith even paying direct homage to Chandler in his writing. The protagonist, Mike Vogel, is a quintessential detective figure whose personal life is overshadowed by his dedication to solving crimes. This portrayal taps into a recurring theme in detective literature: the transformation of a detective’s persona, often towards cynicism, due to the nature of their profession. Vogel’s character may ring familiar to avid readers of the genre, yet his journey remains engaging.
The Spire excels in its gradual narrative build-up, with the plot intensifying progressively. As readers explore the upper tiers of New York’s social strata and delve into the city’s underbelly, it becomes clear that the mystery surrounding the Spire murders may not conclude with a definitive resolution. However, this aspect does not detract from the novel’s appeal. Instead, the journey alongside Mike Vogel, an intriguing and dynamic character, becomes the focal point of Goldsmith’s storytelling.
The Spire offers an immersive experience into the life and mind of a dedicated detective while painting a vivid picture of New York City’s multifaceted character. Goldsmith skillfully delivers a narrative that is as much about the intriguing protagonist as it is about the unfolding mystery, making it a captivating read for fans of the genre.
Pages: 369 | ASIN : B0CVFY99DG
Then Came Four
Then Came Four, by Edward Izzi, is a compelling and gritty portrayal of Detroit in 1964, a time marked by racial tensions, police brutality, and societal upheaval. The novel masterfully interweaves the lives of diverse characters, each representing a facet of Detroit’s complex social landscape. Central to the narrative is the infamous “Big Four” – a group of police officers notorious for their violent tactics, particularly against African Americans. Through their actions, the novel exposes the deep-rooted systemic racism and corruption within the Detroit Police Department, The Big Four’s aggressive enforcement methods, and their eventual trial.
Cynthia Young is a 23-year-old African American prostitute. Cynthia’s harrowing existence on the streets of Detroit, fighting poverty and marginalization, offers a stark contrast to the power wielded by the Big Four. Her character is a heartbreaking representation of those who bore the brunt of the city’s racial and economic disparities.
Author Edward Izzi delves into the community’s response to police brutality, encapsulated in the figure of Moses Abbott, a vocal activist leading the anti-police brutality movement. His efforts to mobilize the community against the Big Four underscore the novel’s theme of resistance and the fight for civil rights. What makes Then Came Four particularly impactful is its vivid depiction of the city’s atmosphere. From the sweltering summer heat to the tense encounters in Detroit’s bars and streets, the setting becomes a character in itself, reflecting the city’s volatility during this period. The story culminates in a dramatic courtroom showdown, bringing a sense of closure to the narrative. However, the novel doesn’t shy away from highlighting the systemic issues that persisted beyond this legal battle, suggesting a continual struggle for justice and equality.
Then Came Four is not just a historical novel; it’s a resonant piece that speaks to ongoing issues in contemporary society. Its raw, unfiltered portrayal of Detroit’s darkest days serves as a powerful reminder of the past and a call to acknowledge and address the underlying issues that still affect many communities today.
Pages: 326 | ASIN : B0CRW11X8F
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?
Shitamachi Scam
Michael Pronko’s latest novel presents a compelling and intricately crafted crime story centered around Detective Hiroshi and his team as they navigate the complexities of a chilling case. The narrative delves into the investigation of a ruthless group of scammers who prey specifically on the retired and elderly, aiming to deceitfully strip them of their life savings. As the story unfolds, Hiroshi skillfully connects a series of murders to these fraudsters, leading to an in-depth and gripping inquiry.
The novel adeptly weaves various incidents, all tracing back to the same group, showcasing Hiroshi and his colleagues’ determination to unravel and halt the nefarious activities of these criminals. Pronko’s writing style is particularly noteworthy. His insightful and detailed prose engages the reader, maintaining a sense of intrigue throughout the narrative. Moreover, his vivid portrayal of Tokyo serves as an immersive backdrop and enriches the reader’s experience, bringing the story’s setting to life with remarkable clarity. The theme of the novel resonates deeply, as it mirrors a real-world issue – the exploitation of the elderly by scammers. Pronko addresses this sensitive topic with a nuanced and thoughtful approach, making the story entertaining and meaningful. The relevance of this theme may strike a chord with many readers, adding a layer of realism to the intriguing plot.
Shitamachi Scam is a well-crafted noir crime novel that combines a suspenseful storyline, rich character development, and a profound understanding of a significant societal issue. His skillful storytelling captivates and enlightens, making this book a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Pages: 336 | ASIN : B0C7NZT7B1
Heinous Events of the Crime
Louis Mie and the Trial of Hautefaye follows a lawyer in 1870 France who is tasked with defending an accused murderer in a high-profile political show trial. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As with many extraordinary events in history, true life can be stranger than fiction. I
stumbled upon the story of the mob murder in Hautefaye as I was doing other research on the same area of France. As I delved further, I came across Louis Mie, the real-life lawyer who defended multiple accused, though I chose to focus on only one of his clients, Leonard Piarrouty. It was in researching Louis Mie and reading some of his own writings that the inspiration took hold to not only cover the tragic and drastic event itself but to focus the story on this intriguing real person. I wanted the trial to anchor the progression of the main plot, but I knew readers would need more to fill in the context of the characters and the events. After all, the Franco-Prussian war and Napoleon III aren’t frequent topics in historical fiction. As the readers deepened their knowledge about the heinous events of the crime, I wanted them to deepen their emotional understanding of Louis and his world in parallel. I, therefore, decided to intersperse flashbacks from multiple points of view to fill in the world and its colors around him.
Louis struggles with a rocky marriage and advancing his career while navigating a case where the truth could be deadly. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
What struck me initially about Louis was his idealism that he retained despite his many years of practicing law, the nearly two decades under Emperor Napoleon III’s government that he was opposed to, and his personal hardships. His writings were so passionately devoted to the principles of a republic, to equality and social justice, even when he could have become more tempered, complacent, or even cynical. I knew I needed to make sure his character retained that fire and commitment to his ideals, but I also spent a lot of time reflecting on how one can go through life so unbent and uncompromising in one’s views. Does it mean that he must have had blinders on in other areas? How difficult must it have been to live in a world of gray turmoil when he saw things so black and white? These qualities may have been both a strength and a flaw and I leaned into that as I put together the facts of what happened as well as what I conjectured he might have been like.
What kind of research did you do for this novel to ensure you captured the essence of the story’s theme?
I love the research part, so I could go on about this for a while. Once I understood the broad strokes of the event and time period, I tried to immerse myself in primary and secondary sources. My most important primary sources were the newspapers covering the trial at that time, as well as Louis Mie’s own writings and his family-related documents that the Departmental Archives in Dordogne were so helpful in providing for my research. Georges Marbeck is also a preeminent source on this event and put together a book of primary source examples from the event, in addition to his excellent book on the topic. I was even able to use a copy of the original crime scene map as my guide when I visited Hautefaye in person and traced the steps of the event. Visiting the locations was also key for me. I had many other secondary sources about the Third Republic, Napoleon III, and even the Périgord region under the Second Empire, but it would take up way too much space to talk about all of these great resources as well.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book will pick up where Louis Mie and the Trial of Hautefaye leaves off, but this time with Vincent as the protagonist as he navigates the dangerous and devastating events of the Paris Commune, covering February to May 1871. Louis Mie will also be making appearances in this next book. In addition, I’ve started working on a book that will focus on Louis’ wife, Anne Mie, and her transition from her youth in India where she was orphaned, and eventual move to France and meeting Louis Mie. Chronologically, it would be more of a prequel, though I see all of these as interconnected standalones. As I’ve been working on both, I’m hoping to release one later in 2024 and the other fairly soon after that.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
France, 1870. A frenzied mob brutally murders a man they believe to be a Prussian spy and a threat to the cult of Emperor Napoleon III. Louis Mie, a republican lawyer, finds himself entangled in a web of political intrigue and moral dilemmas when he is tasked with defending one of the murderers: a political show trial that could send his career to new heights.
But as Louis delves deeper into the high-profile case, he quickly realizes that defending the enigmatic Leonard Piarrouty is far more complex than he ever imagined. And now his entire life is about to fall apart as his obsession with his work takes his strained marriage to the brink of collapse.
In a gripping race against time, Louis must confront the blurred lines between justice, loyalty, and the pursuit of power, risking everything to unearth the truth: secrets that ruthless men will kill to protect.
Will Louis be able to save his client… or his own family?
This evocative historical novel, based on true events, holds the answers…
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
The Auction
In The Auction, author David Alderman weaves a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of a murder-riddled Chicago. While grappling with personal loss, FBI agent Chris Blood finds himself entangled in a sinister web of crimes with undercurrents of the paranormal. The story, a supernatural thriller, intricately merges multiple storylines around the central figure of Agent Blood as he relentlessly pursues an elusive murderer.
Alderman’s characters are captivating, and their journeys enthrall, showcasing the novel’s ambitious scope. Its complex, multi-threaded plot, rich with detail, invites readers to engage deeply, piecing together the overarching narrative. This intricacy, a reflection of Alderman’s creative vision, offers a rewarding experience for those who immerse themselves in unraveling the intertwined stories. The novel’s strength lies in its character development, with figures like Kristiny, Chris, and Tiffany being portrayed with depth and relevance, making their personal stories resonate regardless of their roles. This character-centric approach adds a rich layer to the narrative, though a more straightforward structure could enhance the overall coherence of the plot. Alderman’s novel is a perfect match for mature readers with a passion for supernatural thrillers. The book, rich in complexity, rewards those who immerse themselves in its intricately crafted world. Alderman’s skill as a storyteller becomes more evident with each page, hinting at the potential for even more compelling narratives in his future works.
The Auction is an engaging and thought-provoking read, demonstrating Alderman’s growing prowess in the realm of supernatural thrillers. Readers looking for suspense and mystery will not be disappointed, and anyone who has experienced the loss of someone they love will be touched by the emotions Alderman brings out in his characters.
Pages: 325
Poetic Justice
In the dwindling twilight of Roman dominion, Poetic Justice by Fiona Forsyth transports readers to Tomis, a remote outpost at the Empire’s edge, where the esteemed poet Ovid finds himself in exile. Initially dismissive of the locals as mere barbarians, Ovid’s attention swiftly shifts to a more sinister matter: a series of ritualistic murders, eerily escalating from animal to human sacrifices. As the macabre acts begin to mirror the unsettling themes of Ovid’s own verses, he forms an unlikely partnership with Marcus Avitius, the Governor’s advisor, in a bid to unravel the mystery. Together, they delve into the dark underbelly of Tomis, seeking to expose the chilling truth behind the violence.
As the inaugural installment of the Publius Ovidius Mysteries, Forsyth’s novel is an ambitious foray into historical fiction, ingeniously casting the ancient Roman poet Ovid as a central figure in a gripping murder mystery. Against the odds, the narrative captivates with its richly woven tapestry of historical intrigue and literary imagination. Forsyth demonstrates a profound command over the era, bringing Roman life’s societal and political nuances into sharp relief, thus enabling readers to immerse themselves fully in the period.
The depiction of Ovid and Avitius stands out, with both characters meticulously crafted and offering a compelling dynamic. They are supported by a cast of vividly drawn figures, each contributing to the unfolding drama and deepening our understanding of Roman society. Forsyth’s narrative prowess shines through in every element of the book, from the authentic dialogue and well-measured pacing to the underlying tension that simmers throughout, hinting at the lurking dangers in the shadows of Tomis.
Forsyth’s work is a testament to the power of historical fiction, demonstrating an ability to educate about a bygone era and entertain and engage through a story that is as thrilling as it is unlikely. Poetic Justice is a testament to the genre, proving that with enough skill and creativity, even the most obscure historical figures and moments can spring vividly to life, offering readers a window into the past that is both enlightening and profoundly entertaining.
Pages: 283 | ASIN : B0CP9HW9SJ
LITERARY TITAN 