Blog Archives
The Godfather of Dance
The Godfather of Dance, by Andrea Barton, is a captivating crime/mystery novel that follows the determined journalist Jade. Eager to write a career-defining article, Jade teams up with her dance instructor, Anton, who is haunted by the unsolved murder of his fiancée. Both driven by their own goals—Jade for her career and Anton for closure—they embark on a dangerous quest to uncover the truth. The story plunges the reader into a world of suspense and peril as Jade and Anton become targets themselves. The question looms: will they uncover the identity of Anton’s fiancée’s murderer, or will the killer strike again first?
The novel is fast-paced and skillfully written, keeping the reader engaged through action-packed chapters. The dynamic between Jade and Anton, from their differing backgrounds to their shared determination, adds depth to the narrative. Anton’s past within a crime family introduces twists and secrets that further draw the reader in. The author’s engaging writing style allows the reader to become fully engrossed in the story, rooting for the characters’ success. Jade’s dedication to solving the mystery, despite her career ambitions, makes her a compelling character. The portrayal of imperfect characters adds realism and intrigue to the story. Anton’s troubled family history resurfaces as Jade digs deeper, bringing great danger to them both.
Andrea Barton’s The Godfather of Dance is a gripping tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to unravel the mystery alongside Jade and Anton. The author’s ability to maintain a fast-paced, action-packed narrative ensures that readers remain captivated until the very end. This book is highly recommended for fans of crime and mystery novels.
Pages: 328 | ASIN : B0CQ3F3NDJ
The Psychology That Unconsciously Drives Us
The Mountain Mystic follows a detective investigating the disappearance of an old family friend who gains information from a psychic on where the body is hidden. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
A lot of this series is inspired by stories my family has told me about what it was like growing up in a coal town. This particular book was inspired by two of those stories. One involves my Aunt Rita, who had a prescient dream as a child about a neighbor being murdered. The other involved my Aunt Connie, who visited a psychic in her youth that accurately predicted she would be a young widow. Those stories had been bouncing around inside my head forever. Then one day, I was reading an article about a cold case investigation where the police were so desperate for clues they engaged the services of a psychic and everything came together after that.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think makes for great fiction?
Past is not only prologue, it’s often the B plot of a good story. Our personal histories determine much of the psychology that unconsciously drives us. So I like stories where, to resolve the surface-level A-plot, the character needs to work out some aspect of their psyche, a toxic trait or mental block, that allows them to achieve the results they’ve been seeking. It’s like the external and internal plots are two disparate lines on a graph that finally converge at the climax of the story.
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing or did it develop organically?
I consider myself a hybrid plotter/pantser. Before I begin writing a book, I usually know how the story will begin and end, as well as what the major plot twist will be in the middle. Everything else I make up as I go along. Writing it that way gives me the feeling of discovering the story, rather than dictating it. Also, it allows me to come up with tons of ideas throughout the process that I never would have thought of if I’d committed to a detailed plot outline from the outset.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Marybeth Cain and the direction of the next book?
There will be one more book in this series to wrap up the lingering tensions in Mary Beth’s life, as the larger unsolved mysteries in her past. One thing that makes Mary Beth different from most police protagonists is that she was raised by criminals and thinks like they do. That can be an asset when solving crimes, but it also means she really toes the line between enforcing the law versus her own vigilante sense of justice. That recklessness has caused her a lot of problems that so far she’s been able to sidestep, but in the third book, she’ll need to fully come to terms with it. Also, after driving her family’s criminal operation out of West Virginia, she finds that she may have created a bigger problem than she solved. At the same time, her old nemesis, attorney Alexander Pomfried, takes advantage of his new position as district attorney to come after her. For that reason, the third book is written more in the style of a legal thriller than a police procedural.
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But the case that haunts Mary Beth most is one that went cold before she was even on the force: the long-ago disappearance of a family friend, named Maria Ruiz. So when a country psychic’s vision leads to the discovery of Maria’s body, Mary Beth isn’t willing to chalk it up as genuine clairvoyance and goes all in on an investigation that cuts close to home.
The Stanton Falls Mysteries
In The Stanton Falls Mysteries, by Susan Reed-Flores, readers are treated to three captivating short stories: “Murder at the Museum,” “Murder at the Marina,” and “Murder at the Lakehouse.” Set in the picturesque town of Stanton Falls, Connecticut, these tales revolve around two dedicated local police detectives who find themselves at the heart of intriguing murder investigations. Each story is approximately 40 pages long, making them perfect for a quick and satisfying read.
In “Murder at the Museum,” Detective Dan Ross takes center stage as he investigates the murder of Jack Crawford, an employee at the town’s art museum. The list of suspects includes the museum board members and Crawford’s former lover and executive assistant, Charlotte Wayward. The second story, “Murder at the Marina,” shifts the focus to Detective Ross’ partner, Detective Anthony Scalari. Here, Scalari delves into the mysterious death of Joseph Camden, an Assistant VP at an insurance company. This installment also enriches the narrative with callbacks and further character development for Detective Ross and Charlotte. The third story, “Murder at the Lakehouse,” masterfully intertwines elements from the first two tales. Both detectives join forces to unravel the murder of an unidentified man near Detective Ross’ lake house, bringing together threads from their previous cases.
Susan Reed-Flores employs a formal writing style that, despite the grim subject matter, maintains a wholesome tone throughout the book. The detectives are portrayed not only as skilled professionals but also as individuals with supportive personal lives, adding depth to their characters. The seamless blending of the stories creates a cohesive and engaging reading experience. These stories are an excellent recommendation for fans of classic “whodunit” mysteries, those who prefer their crime stories on the lighter side, and anyone seeking a quick and enjoyable read.
The Stanton Falls Mysteries provides a delightful escape into a world of intrigue and well-drawn characters, leaving readers eager to see if personal conflicts might arise for Detectives Ross and Scalari in future installments.
Pages: 141 | ASIN : B0BC3RS4MW
Everyone Has A Story
Otro accidente en Asturias follows the owner of a local surf school who discovers the human remains on the beach. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve traveled extensively in Spain and the north coast of the country is a relatively undiscovered marvel, from the Basque Country to Galicia. The people, the food (!), the beaches, the cultures (they are all unique) and the landscape helped me come up with the idea for a trilogy whose second book is Otro accidente en Asturias. The first is set in the Basque Country and is called Un detective accidental en Donostia.
Michael does not just fall into a mystery but a journey of self-discovery. What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
I believe everyone has a story to be told, whether it’s about themselves or something that occurs to them. The universality of the human experience, even though circumstances differ, drives great fiction.
One thing that stands out in your novel is the level of detail in the scenery. Readers are drawn in and can easily imagine themselves in Gijón. Why choose this place and time for the setting of the story?
Because Gijón is AWESOME! Also because there is a strong surf culture there as well as tremendous cuisine and, of course, cider. You can’t help but fall in love with it all.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on the third book of the trilogy which is based in Galicia.
Otro Accidente En Asturias
Michael Featherstone’s Otro accidente en Asturias transporta a los lectores al pueblo costero de Gijón, España, a través de los ojos del protagonista Michael, quien dirige una escuela local de surf. La narrativa comienza con una detallada descripción de las interacciones diarias de Michael, utilizando su integración en Gijón como telón de fondo para un misterio más amplio que se desarrolla, desencadenado por el inquietante descubrimiento de restos humanos en la playa.
Featherstone es hábil en entrelazar las costumbres y ritmos diarios de Gijón en la trama, convirtiendo observaciones culturales ligeras en un examen suspenso de las corrientes más oscuras del pueblo. Su ritmo hábil y su meticulosa atención al detalle, especialmente en sus retratos de los personajes locales y las dinámicas sociales, aseguran una transición sin fisuras de una vida comunitaria tranquila a un misterio tenso y cautivador. La cultura local de surf y las relaciones comunitarias no solo enriquecen la historia, sino que también otorgan autenticidad y profundidad a los eventos que se desarrollan.
La prosa es lúcida y atractiva, manteniendo un fino equilibrio entre la ambientación inmersiva y el movimiento narrativo dinámico. A medida que las tensiones se intensifican, el desarrollo personal y las reflexiones de Michael se entrelazan en el núcleo del misterio, culminando en un clímax que es tanto emocionante como narrativamente satisfactorio. Los personajes secundarios realzan la trama, cada uno contribuyendo al entorno social y cultural de Gijón y avanzando en el misterio central.
La novela de Featherstone va más allá de simplemente desentrañar el suspense; se adentra en temas introspectivos de identidad, pertenencia y resiliencia. Otro accidente en Asturias es una novela meticulosamente elaborada que entrelaza la profundidad cultural con el suspense, atrayendo a los lectores que disfrutan de narrativas que reflejan las complejidades de la vida a través de un lente de suspense.
Pages: 250 | ASIN : B0CY5N997Z
One For The Money
Ryan Hale’s debut novel, One For the Money, introduces readers to Blake Franklin, a former Fort Worth cop turned private investigator, in the first installment of The Blake Franklin Investigations Series. Despite failing the detective exam three times, Blake’s tenacity is undiminished. His transition from law enforcement to private investigation begins with financial backing from his uncle Lewis, setting the stage for his new career. Blake is quickly entangled in a series of cases involving a disreputable car dealer accused of scamming elderly women. His investigation reveals a sinister network of missing individuals, suspicious deaths, and menacing adversaries, escalating the danger as he digs deeper. As the situation intensifies with more lives at risk and a mounting body count, Blake’s quest to recover the stolen cars threatens to disturb a volatile criminal element.
Against a backdrop of vintage automobiles and nefarious activities, Hale crafts a narrative rich with intrigue and action. While Blake’s investigative methods sometimes appear hasty and lack refinement, reflecting his inexperience, these traits also bring a dynamic unpredictability to his character. His natural charm and commitment to justice are his greatest assets, particularly as the stakes grow and the case draws federal attention. The narrative is bolstered by a robust cast of supporting characters. Figures like the affable Sharon Longstreet and the formidable Madeline Bailey provide emotional depth and complexity to the storyline, enriching the reader’s engagement. Fans of crime fiction and thrillers with a penchant for classic cars will find much to appreciate in Hale’s novel. It offers a compelling blend of suspense, sharp plot twists, and a touch of humor that keeps the pages turning.
One For the Money is a thrilling series opener, inviting readers to follow Blake Franklin as he navigates the murky waters of private investigation. Ryan Hale skillfully combines suspense, character development, and action elements, making this an excellent read for anyone drawn to gritty, realistic crime fiction. Whether you’re a devotee of detective stories or a newcomer to the genre, Blake Franklin’s daring escapades and the vivid backdrop of this suspenseful narrative will surely capture and hold your attention.
Pages: 238 | ASIN : B0BW51BJZP
Baby Girl Jones
Baby Girl Jones delves into the intricate lives of three women, each shadowed by traumatic pasts linked to their adoptions. Claire, a detective, unravels the mysterious overdose of a woman; Mallory, emerging from the instability of dangerous foster homes, finds solace with her adoptive parents; and Greta, adopted early into a home marred by aloofness and abuse, harbors destructive desires that threaten to entangle all their lives.
The narrative masterfully interweaves the distinct paths of Claire, Mallory, and Greta, offering a rich exploration of their backgrounds and how they shape their present. The mystery of Baby Girl Jones’s origin is both compelling and unsettling, driving the plot forward through the perspectives of these three characters. Each narrative voice is fully developed, with Mallory displaying significant growth. Greta and Mallory serve as intriguing foils to one another, while Claire’s investigative thread propels the storyline. As a prequel, the novel skillfully sets the stage for future events, hinting at pivotal decisions and brewing conflicts that promise to escalate in subsequent installments. Particularly notable is the exploration of themes such as adoption, foster care, and the enduring impact of abuse—handled with sensitivity and depth. This balance of thrilling elements with poignant social commentary positions Baby Girl Jones as a compelling read within the thriller genre, offering both suspense and insightful reflections on complex issues.
Baby Girl Jones adeptly mixes suspense with deep social insights, making it a standout thriller that captivates and resonates emotionally with its readers. Through its well-crafted characters and their interlinked stories, the book invites readers to reflect on the profound effects of family dynamics and personal history. The unfolding mystery, combined with the promise of future revelations, ensures that the anticipation for the next book in the series is palpable and exciting.
Pages: 328 | ASIN : B0CW1H387R
Twists and Turns
Once Upon a Crime follows a veteran homicide detective who needs to find a vigilante serial killer before she kidnaps her daughter. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for Once Upon A Crime came from my reading about the hunt for the Son of Sam. He’d sent a taunting message to an NYPD detective threatening the detective’s daughter.
Another part of the inspiration came from a criminal case I worked on when I was a police officer about the sexual assault of a young lady.
How did you come up with the idea for the antagonist in this story, and how did it change as you wrote?
In writing Once Upon A Crime, given that most sex crimes have women as victims, I wanted a female character hunting for sexual offenders to be the antagonist. At first, she was a disgruntled police officer whose back story was about her being dispatched to do a preliminary investigation of the brutal sexual assault of a young girl. A news item gave me the idea for a different antagonist: Penny Grimes.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
When I started writing Once Upon A Crime, I had fairly good idea of where I was going with it. As the story took root, several ideas came to mind for the twists and turns used in it.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Detective Madison Chase and the direction of the next book?
At this time, I haven’t decided whether to write a sequel to Once Upon A Crime.
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In a twisted game of cat and mouse, Detective Madison Chase must outwit a serial killer targeting sex offenders—before her own daughter becomes the next victim.
October in Fort Worth takes on a sinister hue for Penny Grimes. She’s not just a vigilante; she’s a poetic executioner, leaving headless pedophiles as her gruesome calling cards. Each murder scene is adorned with a chilling rhyme, taunting the police and, in particular, haunting veteran homicide detective Madison Chase.
But Penny has a darker agenda. She’s set her sights on Chase’s daughter, Emily—a blonde, blue-eyed four-year-old, living image of the child Penny has always yearned for. Unbeknownst to Chase, while she’s hot on the trail of Fort Worth’s most elusive serial killer, Penny is plotting to kidnap Emily.
LITERARY TITAN 