Blog Archives
Trauma Shapes Us
TYE follows two brothers who were failed by a system meant to protect them from abuse and neglect and turn to a life of crime and working for a mafia family. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
TYE is a prequel to Clifford’s War: The Bluegrass Battleground. After I wrote that book, I was focused on a sequel but felt like I left a lot of unanswered questions about the TYE brothers and how they became who they were. There was so much more story left untold.
I needed to go back and tell their story so that the fans of the first book could better understand the brothers and their story.
-JDR
The first book in the series, Clifford’s War: The Bluegrass Battleground, started with the main character, Clifford Dee, in the middle of a situation that changes the trajectory of his life. The Tye Brothers were pivotal but treated as throw-away characters, initially. J. Denison Reed started to wonder out loud what made these men who they were? Why were brothers committing these atrocities? The conversation got our imagination going and we knew it had to be childhood trauma.
-EJE
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
I believe everything that happens to you, shapes you. Good or bad. We are faced with decisions every day, and there were options for the Tye brothers. This story is about compounding events, mistakes, and bad decisions that let the Tye brothers down their destructive path. It could happen to anyone if they let it. We are all impressionable based on our experiences and how we process them. That’s what makes it so tragic.
-JDR
I find that sometimes, it doesn’t matter if someone has a good heart, is intelligent, and/or simply knows right from wrong. If they aren’t loved or have a solid support system, they will do what they have to do to survive. Survival mode looks different for everyone.
-EJE
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
We needed to show how destructive the Tye brothers were, and could be. We also wanted to show that they were human, they could love, they could care, but also, they could hate and destroy without one. This is why their brotherly relationship was important. It’s all they had that was solid. Everything else around them crumbled.
-JDR
Trauma shapes us and when it happens in childhood without a healthy resolution, bad things happen and it will have a domino effect.
-EJE
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am working on the Third Sequel of Clifford’s War. If you are familiar with the last book, the protagonist, Clifford Dee, heads out of state on a solo mission. This one will be a doozy! I also have other stories outside the Clifford’s War universe planned, but for a later date. EJ is working on some side stories that are still inside the universe but will be their own stand-alone books.
-JDR
There are two books in the works, currently. One follows Sara and a case she encounters while visiting family and friends in Kentucky.
The other book has Clifford Dee leaving his team behind to help an old acquaintance in Colorado. They happen simultaneously and one feeds into the other.
-EJE
Author Links: GoodReads | Threads | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Waxpool Publishing House | Amazon
Darius and Marcus Tye, traumatized by their father, found it difficult to cope with the tragic loss of their mother at his hands Despite efforts to find solace in group homes and foster care, the brothers could not escape the shadows of their troubled past, which led them to a life of crime, employment from a sinister mafia family, and hunted by the authorities for the nefarious bloodshed they left in their wake.
** Advisory: Contains scenes of domestic violence, sexual assault, and extreme violence. **
The Killing Ground
In the storm-swept deserts of Arizona, FBI agent Brad Hanley stumbles upon a chilling crime scene: a body half-buried in the sand, an arm jutting from the earth, and a mouth stuffed with soil. The grim discovery sends shockwaves through him when he identifies the victim as his former colleague and friend, Agent Dan Ortiz. As Brad reels from the loss, he enlists the help of Lance Tallbear to track down the killer, believing a mole within his task force could be behind the gruesome act. Together, they plunge into a high-stakes world of cartel warfare and deceit, where the price of truth may be their lives.
The Killing Ground by L.D. Lauritzen grips readers from the start, enveloping them in the raw atmosphere of the desert and the unforgiving reality of a murder investigation. Lauritzen’s vivid descriptions bring the crime scene and its desolate surroundings to life, while a steady, suspenseful pace propels the story forward. The tension simmers as Brad wrestles with both his grief and the urgency to bring his friend’s killer to justice, all while navigating treacherous alliances. With each twist, Lauritzen pulls readers deeper into the mystery, making the sense of urgency as palpable as the intense Arizona heat. Lauritzen’s writing style is taut and relentless, creating an atmosphere thick with suspense. His precise pacing builds layer upon layer of tension, drawing readers into a labyrinth of danger and deception. The Killing Ground masterfully balances action with introspection, giving insight into Brad’s inner struggles even as the stakes around him escalate. Lauritzen’s skillful control over pace and plot twists makes this novel a standout in the crime thriller genre, leaving readers guessing—and holding their breath—until the final reveal.
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers that explore the dark underbelly of cartel conflicts and betrayal, The Killing Ground will not disappoint. With its intricate plot, haunting setting, and complex characters, Lauritzen’s novel is a compelling dive into the ruthless world of cartel violence and justice. It’s a must-read for anyone who appreciates a gritty, suspenseful mystery that keeps you on edge right to the very last page.
Pages: 540 | ASIN : B0DHR11LDT
Changing Lives
Against the Wind follows a sixteen-year-old girl living in foster care who runs away and steals an antique airplane, leading her to meet a quantum physics professor also on the run from the FBI and Russian mafia. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve been a licensed pilot for nearly 28 years, but I’ve been flying with my father since I was a small child. He had his pilot’s license at the age of 16 and I’ve known of young pilots flying cross country and have always been impressed with that! As for the quantum physics aspect of the novel, the science behind it is absolutely amazing! Quantum computers will change our lives forever!
Your characters are wonderfully emotive and relatable. Were you able to use anything from your own life to inform their character development?
I think most authors have a storehouse of characters and character traits to call on when writing. Any teenage cross-country pilot shows remarkable independence and, in the case of Against the Wind, real courage. I wanted the physics professor to learn as much from her as she did from him!
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?
For me, it’s usually a mix. Certain key twists must be planned and others evolve in the course of the writing.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am working on the next “Relic” book, featuring the moonshining hermit of Canyonlands National Park (see Moonshine Mesa for example). Thought a “series,” each novel is stand-alone.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Book Reivew
Chloe flees her unsafe foster home in a stolen antique airplane. Professor Dochauser eludes a Russian spy willing to kill for the professor’s breakthrough in quantum computing. When their paths collide, they begin a cross-country quest to find Chloe’s grandfather and a safe haven for the professor. The Russian mafia, FBI, and social services race to find the runaway and the quantum prototype that can tip the balance of world power.
But not everyone in the chase is who they seem…
#TechnoThriller #OrganizedCrime #RussianMafia #CrimeThrillers #EspionageThrillers #FlyingAirplaneThrillers #YoungFemalePilot #QuantumComputerThriller #ActionThriller #ActionAdventure #CrossCountryChase #Adventure #FlyingAdventures #ThrillerMystery #TechnoMystery #Heartwarming #Humour&Adventure
Finding Magdalena
Finding Magdalena, by Shannon Condon, embarks on a gripping journey with Magdalena “Maggie” Curran, a teenager whose life is upended after a tragic car accident claims her parents. Set against the prestigious backdrop of Easton Academy, where Maggie is a scholarship student, this coming-of-age story navigates themes of grief, survival, and the enduring power of love. Maggie’s struggle to adapt to her new reality as an orphan is palpable and her deepening friendship with the charming and protective Graham brings warmth to her otherwise lonely world. As Maggie ventures beyond her comfort zone and meets new people, unsettling secrets begin to surface, threatening both her safety and peace of mind.
Condon delivers a fast-paced and emotionally charged young adult read that blends grief, romance, suspense, and tension. The story hooks readers with its portrayal of raw emotion, complex friendships, and Maggie’s journey of self-discovery. The narrative deftly weaves together the past and present, testing the strength of its characters in ways that keep readers on edge. From the outset, Finding Magdalena sets a promising tone, drawing readers into Maggie’s shattered world after the sudden death of her parents. The writing builds an emotional foundation, hinting at the deep exploration of loss and suspense that lies ahead. The elite boarding school setting adds to the intrigue, and the initial hints of mystery beneath Maggie’s grief suggest an intense, thrilling ride. Maggie’s relationship with Graham is heartfelt and one of the book’s more compelling aspects. Her nightmares and anxieties are rendered realistically, and the simple, accessible writing makes the book a fast and engaging read.
I do feel the themes of grief and self-discovery seem to take a back seat halfway through the plot as the focus shifts heavily toward romance. Though the romantic elements are well-executed, the transition seems abrupt, as though two different stories—one of loss and one of high school love—are competing for attention. I would love to have seen a slightly more nuanced balance between these two elements. The thriller aspects remain intriguing as there are moments of genuine suspense and emotional resonance that shine through, particularly in Maggie’s relationships with Graham and Sarah, and how an unexpected friendship helps her break out of her shell. These elements keep the reader engaged and invested in Maggie’s plight.
Finding Magdalena offers moments of emotional depth, tension, and heart and is a compelling read for those who enjoy fast-paced young adult fiction with a mix of romance and suspense. I recommend Shannon Condon’s thriller to any reader seeking a new author and a cast of relatable characters to explore.
Pages: 372 | ASIN : B089QLLCN7
TYE
TYE by J. Denison Reed and Elliott J. Emerson presents a grim and intense narrative that delves deep into the troubled lives of Marcus and Darius. From the start, it is clear that the brothers have endured a lifetime of hardship. Their home was a battleground of family dysfunction, and the foster care system offered no respite. Scarred by years of trauma, Marcus and Darius are left bitter and resentful, with emotional wounds that run deep.
This book is strikingly dark, evoking a sense of tragedy reminiscent of Shakespearean drama. Like the works of the famed playwright, TYE weaves together elements of deep emotional pain and high-stakes intensity. The drama is palpable, building with each chapter as the characters’ destructive paths become more apparent. The story is also intensely character-driven. Marcus and Darius, the two central figures, are disturbing to read about, violent, cold, and utterly devoid of empathy. Their transformation into ruthless killers is unsettling, yet the narrative succeeds in making their darkness comprehensible. The emotional weight of their childhood, marked by neglect and abuse at the hands of a mentally ill father, leaves the reader with a complicated sense of empathy for them despite their actions. I found TYE to be haunting, disturbing, and deeply tragic. Its darkness is relentless, yet the authors manage to stir feelings of sympathy for Marcus and Darius, who never received the care and love they needed as children. The trauma they endured permeates the story, highlighting the cyclical nature of abuse and the devastating toll it takes on the human spirit.
While this fast-paced, gripping read is not for the faint of heart, the scenes are often graphic and disturbing, painting a bleak portrait of the brothers’ painful and dysfunctional lives. Despite its brevity, TYE leaves a lasting impact. I recommend it to readers who enjoy intense thrillers that explore the darker side of the human condition, but be warned: This story lingers long after the final page is turned.
Pages: 244 | ASIN : B0D5WP4VCW
Shores of Okinawa
Shores of Okinawa by Patrick Greenwood is a riveting political action thriller, navigating a complex web of global cyber security, hacking, and international intrigue. Set across the United States, Europe, and Asia, including Taiwan and Okinawa, the novel follows Jack Kendall, a former U.S. Marine turned technology troubleshooter for Techline, a global security communications firm. The stakes rise dramatically when his two children, William and Regina, are drawn into a global conspiracy that threatens critical data. To prevent a catastrophic cyber attack on Taiwan, Jack must assemble a team of experts and law enforcement to outwit their adversaries.
One of the strengths of Shores of Okinawa is the intricate plot structure. Greenwood expertly weaves together a wide array of characters and subplots, creating a cohesive story despite the complexity. The motivations of both the heroes and the villains are well-delineated, giving readers a nuanced perspective on the unfolding conflict. Watching Jack, his children, and their allies scramble to counter the villains’ dangerous plans makes for compelling reading. The reintroduction of characters from Greenwood’s previous novel, Forever Our Sunrise in Saigon, added depth, making the universe feel interconnected and familiar for returning readers. The vivid, globe-spanning settings were another highlight, taking readers to different parts of the world as the characters race to stop the impending cyber catastrophe. After a slow start, the narrative gained momentum and held my attention through its final pages. The opening chapters, focused on a series of phone calls between characters as they plot their strategies, felt slow and lacked immediate action, making it harder to become invested in the story right away. The technical jargon, while relevant to the cybersecurity theme, often felt overwhelming and unnecessary, bogging down the pace. There were also moments of redundancy, particularly in the exchanges between characters, where information was repeated multiple times—first conveyed through narrative, then through character dialogue, and again through relays of that same information to other characters. This repetition occasionally disrupted the otherwise taut flow of the story.
Shores of Okinawa is an engaging and thought-provoking thriller, blending cyber warfare with political intrigue. Once the plot finds its stride, the book delivers suspense, action, and a fascinating look into the complexities of modern cybersecurity. Fans of Greenwood’s previous work will especially appreciate the returning characters and expanded universe.
Pages: 502 | ASIN : B0DCZNQ9W5
Against the Wind
Against the Wind by A.W. Baldwin spins an electrifying tale of adventure, danger, and unlikely partnerships. The story centers around 16-year-old Chloe, who has a lot on her plate. She’s desperate to escape her sketchy foster parents and even more determined to steal a plane to visit her grandfather. But will her daring plan work out? At the same time, Professor Dochauser is deeply involved in a high-stakes quantum physics project, research that holds the potential to change lives. However, a relentless “journalist” will stop at nothing to steal the professor’s work. It doesn’t take long for Chloe and the professor to realize that if they want to survive, they’ll need to rely on each other, because failure—or death—is not an option.
Chloe, the novel’s fiery protagonist, is a sassy, well-crafted character who brings a spark to every page. Readers will be drawn to her wit and resilience. The professor, while flawed, is equally compelling—a brilliant yet endearing figure that you can’t help but cheer for. Together, they face a series of thrilling, life-threatening situations, and the chemistry between them keeps the story’s momentum strong. The pacing is spot-on, with a tone that balances tension with bursts of humor. Set primarily in the sky, the story’s high-flying action will make readers dream of becoming pilots themselves. The stakes are high from the start—being shot at in a plane is just one of the pulse-pounding moments that makes this novel hard to put down. Yet, amid the danger, there are moments of beauty and human connection, such as when Chloe and the professor meet kind-hearted strangers on their journey to Spokane. The story also touches on the darker side of life, especially in Chloe’s struggle with her foster parents, who are anything but ideal. There’s an underlying sadness in her story, but it never overshadows the fierce drive that pushes her forward. Meanwhile, the looming threat of a mysterious antagonist—willing to go to any extreme to seize the professor’s secrets—keeps the tension high.
Against the Wind is a fast-paced, action-packed thrill ride that blends danger, humor, and heart. With its engaging characters, sky-high adventures, and nail-biting twists, this is a story that readers will devour and thoroughly enjoy!
Pages: 322 | ASIN : B0DHV3G316
Cauldron of Wrath
When Malcolm Hendricks questions his ability to lead the FBI’s Southern California Joint Terrorism Task Force, he is unprepared for the extreme challenges that await him. Lebanese terrorists, organized, ruthless, and determined, have committed an unthinkable act. Smuggling two nuclear devices into the United States via Mexico, they aim to execute a grand plan that threatens not only the country but potentially the entire world. Hendricks finds himself in a frantic race against time, as death looms ever closer to an unsuspecting group of workers at a crucial drilling site.
Terrence Poppa’s Cauldron of Wrath is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller that takes readers on a gripping journey from beyond the Mexican border to Los Angeles and Yellowstone National Park. The stakes are high, with the potential destruction of the United States hanging in the balance. The plot is meticulously developed and paced, creating a palpable sense of desperation as law enforcement and terrorists engage in a tense cat-and-mouse chase.
The FBI’s use of spy movie-esque tools adds an edge to their efforts, but the terrorists’ cunning ensures that the outcome remains uncertain, heightening the suspense at key moments. The plot’s plausibility is commendable, though I feel it does have a distinctly United States-centric perspective. While this focus is understandable given the setting, the global implications of the terrorists’ plan present an opportunity to escalate the stakes further, which sometimes feels underexplored. The characters driving the narrative largely fit into clearly defined roles of heroes and villains. However, there are instances of moral ambiguity, with some characters’ arcs aiming for emotional depth, and I believe this occasionally detracts from the overall momentum of an otherwise riveting story.
Cauldron of Wrath is a compelling thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Its high-stakes plot, well-matched adversaries, and relentless pacing make it a standout in the genre. This book is particularly well-suited for fans of action-packed narratives and those interested in espionage and terrorism-themed stories.
Pages: 318 | ASIN : B0D755SY35
LITERARY TITAN 