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The Last Inning
In The Last Inning, private investigators Jack Hayes and Felicia Braxton find themselves enmeshed in peril as they delve into a chilling cold case involving two women who vanished from a nightclub. Their probe pits them against a formidable adversary, Marcus Tate, a man with a past marred by violence and crime, including a previous assault on Jack.
The plot thickens as Hayes and Braxton uncover a sinister nexus between the glamorous facade of professional baseball and the shadowy realms of drug trafficking and homicide. Their list of suspects spans from an up-and-coming baseball prodigy to a scheming game veteran whose corrupt practices and manipulative ways render him a substantial threat.
The Last Inning captivates with its relentless pace, delivering suspenseful narrative twists that keep the reader riveted. Each revelation is skillfully woven into the fabric of the story, culminating in a climax that’s as unexpected as it is satisfying.
The novel shines a spotlight on the intricacies of its characters, particularly through the resilient Felicia, whose complex background and unyielding spirit resonate deeply. Her character stands as a beacon of perseverance, adding a rich layer of human struggle to the narrative.
With its compelling blend of intrigue and character-driven storytelling, The Last Inning is an engrossing read that commands the reader’s attention from start to finish. It’s a compelling selection for fans of suspense and mystery who relish a narrative that’s as thrilling as it is emotionally engaging.
Pages: 269 | ASIN : B0CJT5JX24
I Love Creating & Solving Mysteries
Justified Malice follows a private detective working with the FBI to hunt down a crime boss and seeks help from the Mexican cartel. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
In my previous novel (Human Collateral), the crime boss escapes at the end. Finding a unique set of circumstances to track him down was the initial motivation as well as a way to string together the first two novels in the thriller series. Having spent considerable time in Mexico gave me many very romantic locales to draw upon and an opportunity to introduce the cartel into the mix which added a ton of intrigue and suspense.
Is there anything about Miles Darien that came from yourself or your life experiences?
My interest in detective thrillers dates back to my childhood love of Sherlock Holmes stories. It helped me fashion Miles’ professional attributes. The various places visited in these novels are places I know intimately so there is that element. Also, Miles’ views on the world at large mirror my own.
What was the hardest part about writing a mystery story, where you constantly have to give just enough to keep the mystery alive until the big reveal?
Actually, creating and solving the mysteries is what keeps me writing. For me, it’s nourishment. Each book has several cases which lead to the main one which allows me to create and build interest while authenticating Miles’ credentials as a sleuth.
What do you have planned for Miles Darien in the future? When can your fans expect his next mystery?
I’ve already begun writing the next installment of the series. Look for a murder mystery this time around. Also, expect Miles’ relationship with his FBI partner Ken to make a dramatic shift.
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Miles and the FBI had set up an elaborate sting to bring down Reese’s operation. The sting was successful except Reese had evaded the trap Miles and the FBI had set up to capture him.
Months later on another case, the FBI learns that Reese has set up shop in Mexico. Miles jumps at the chance to finally bring Reese to justice. When he and his journalist friend Ryan come up empty in their search, Miles makes a risky and dangerous choice. He asks the local Mexican cartel for help. He explains to them that taking over Reese’s operation would be a most fair bounty for helping to locate him. When the cartel finally agrees to assist, they provide an unexpected location, Reese is operating out of a villa in Havana.
The FBI organizes a raid only to find the hideout abandoned. Miles once again makes the risky decision to turn to the cartel. They provide him with a one word update, Chicago.
Justified Malice (A Miles Darien Detective Thriller Book 2)
In Justified Malice, Miles is once again catapulted into a high-stakes mission, this time journeying through the vivid terrains of Mexico. Tasked with an undercover assignment for PG Parts—a company ensnared in an embezzlement whirlwind—Miles is driven by a dual ambition: to resolve the case promptly and to relish a vacation alongside his cherished partner, Ken. But destiny has other plans. The re-emergence of the elusive Jonathan Reese in the heart of Southern Mexico sets the stage for a riveting confrontation. Miles, grappling with bygones and lamenting his past oversight with Reese, is galvanized with renewed resolve to corner his nemesis, even if it necessitates allying with local cartels.
Justified Malice boasts a mesmerizing mystery, well-conceived and laden with intricate layers. The meticulous design of the plot is evident, pulling readers into a vortex of suspense with each unfolding chapter. While Miles may initially seem like a conventional lead, it’s his steadfastness and professional fervor that underscore his significance. Ryan, however, emerges as the novel’s unexpected heart, propelled by personal loss and a pursuit for closure amidst chaos. While I enjoyed the story, I felt the narrative’s reserved approach to early suspense, notably during the bomb episode, could have been improved. Heightening the immediacy and tension of such moments might have heightened the immersive thrill for readers. But this is a minor point in an otherwise riveting novel.
Justified Malice is an exhilarating read, blending crime, suspense, and deep-seated grudges into a compelling tale. It showcases an intricate plot, unforeseen deviations, and characters that linger in memory. For fans of detective mystery novels, this is an indispensable addition to their collection. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of mystery and suspense that keeps you riveted until the closing page.
Pages: 320 | ASIN : B0C2ZSPYR8
O’SHAUGHNESSY INVESTIGATIONS, INC. The Cases Nobody Wanted
In the heart of 1942’s Brooklyn, A.G. Russo introduces readers to the formidable pair, Maeve O’Shaugnessy and Vic Marino, in O’Shaughnessy Investigations Inc: The Cases Nobody Wanted. This duo delves into cases others hesitate to touch, their most challenging being the chilling murder of Lucille Sullivan, a young woman whose life was tragically cut short within the walls of a luxurious apartment.
Though the circumstances surrounding Lucille’s death scream for justice, the police show a surprising lack of interest, propelling Maeve and Vic into a whirlwind of danger and intrigue. As they navigate a world rife with thugs and enigmatic figures, the narrative masterfully pieces together an intricate puzzle of suspense and deception.
Russo paints a vivid historical canvas, transporting readers to a Brooklyn gripped by the aftermath of Pearl Harbor’s attack and the ongoing upheavals of World War II. With numerous men on battlefronts, women like Maeve find themselves stepping into roles beyond domestic confines. Her journey from a secretary, ensnared in societal expectations, to a fierce detective alongside the pragmatic ex-cop Vic is a testament to resilience and partnership.
One of Russo’s strengths is character development, with Maeve emerging as an especially compelling figure. Her tenacity, even in the face of adversity, resonates deeply and adds layers of depth to the narrative.
This neo-noir mystery doesn’t shy away from the realities of its era. Themes of violence, racial tensions, sexism, and more are explored with raw authenticity, sometimes employing language and situations reflective of the times.
Engrossing and evocative, O’Shaughnessy Investigations Inc: The Cases Nobody Wanted is a treat for those yearning for a robust mystery novel that both entertains and challenges. Highly recommended for the discerning mystery aficionado.
Pages: 316 | ASIN : B0CJ228TXX
Inspiration Comes From All Over
Love Put Me In – Love Got Me Out tells the story of a man wrongly convicted of murder who asks his detective grandson to find the real killer and clear his name. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The country and western song Ol Red, originally sung by George Jones, then re-released by Blake Shelton in 2001
Trey just wants to help his grandfather out but winds up discovering more than he expected and testing his skills as a detective. What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of the characters?
The characters in the song Ol Red gave me the idea for the main characters. With over 40 years traveling to all the counties in Oklahoma as well as several in the surrounding states and Utah, Wyoming, and Alabama for oil and gas companies, I listened to hundreds of books on tape and CD, which gave me a good insight and ideas. I made notes to myself about how I would write if I ever decided to write a book. In the years of listening to the books, I realized that it is best to limit the characters in the story to make it easier for the reader to keep track of the characters and not overload the reader with numerous characters. Also, I tried to establish a character’s personality early on and maintain the personality throughout the store.
As I was drafting an outline for my main characters and how I could make them more interesting to the reader, I began to think of actors and the characters they portrayed. For my book character Billy, especially in his older years, I thought of the character Gus McCrae, played by Robert Duvall in Lonesome Dove. I tried to use his mannerisms and humorous comments to bring him to real life for the reader. For my character of Trey, the retired detective and Billy’s grandson, I thought of Tom Selleck and the character Jesse Stone, with his laid-back approach and calm demeanor. Thinking of these actors and their characters made it easier for me to develop my characters in a way that would keep the reader intrigued and looking forward to the next chapter of my book.
Some events in the book were chillingly similar to real-life events. Did you take any inspiration from real life when developing this book?
Yes, I have done a lot of fishing for various types of fish, which made it somewhat easy to relate my fishing experience with the reader. Also, with my traveling experience, I would use maps to find the shortest route to my destination; therefore, it was fairly easy for me to use this experience in my story when Billy was mapping out his trip to Idaho.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
I am working on another story based on another old country and western song, Long Black Vail. In this story, Trey, the retired detective, is trying to solve another murder back in the 1930s. Just like the song, an innocent man is convicted and hung.
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After many years of worrying about being caught and wondering who had committed the murder, he told his grandson, Trey, a retired detective, about his past and how he had escaped from prison with the help of Ole Red. Even though the murder had been committed in the 1930s, Trey told his grandfather Bill he would go to Georgia and try to find out who committed the murder. Trey got more than he bargained for when during his investigation of the old murder, he uncovered crime and corruption that had been going on for decades in his grandfather’s old hometown of Harwood, Georgia. Trey’s investigation brought to light the person who murdered Luke Hampton so many years earlier and was a shock and total surprise to him and his grandfather Bill.
Love Put Me In – Love Got Me Out
In Love Put Me In – Love Got Me Out, author James Blurton weaves a captivating tale of suspense and mystery centered around a protagonist unjustly punished for a crime he did not commit. After Luke Hampton is mysteriously murdered, Billy, who has just lost his wife at the hands of Luke, becomes the prime suspect. Despite his innocence, Billy is sentenced to 99 years to life in prison. Following a daring escape, he spends decades living off the grid, eventually revealing his secret to his grandson, Trey, a retired detective. Thus, begins a thrilling journey to uncover the true killer, unearthing a web of startling secrets about the county and its residents.
Blurton creates vivid, memorable characters, each ingrained with unique habits and mannerisms that bring them to life. For example, Billy is a coffee addict with a penchant for old-fashioned brewing methods. The novel deftly transitions through various moods and themes, ensuring there is never a dull moment. The story maintains a gripping pace, from the tender romantic atmosphere at the outset to shocking criminal acts and the gritty realities of prison life. Much of the narrative is dedicated to Trey’s complex investigation, featuring dramatic interviews and complex, puzzle-like analysis of clues.
This exciting novel is fast-paced, giving readers one thrilling moment after another. The author has put so much action into this story that it will be hard to put down as each clue expertly leads to the next. In addition, there are memorable characters that facilitate a strong connection with readers.
This unpredictable book offers an engaging blend of themes that will resonate with a diverse range of readers, including fishing enthusiasts, mystery buffs, dog lovers, fans of detective fiction, and Christian audiences. In addition, the novel maintains a strong sense of intrigue, keeping readers eager to solve its mysteries and rewarding them with a jaw-dropping, climactic conclusion.
Love Put Me In – Love Got Me Out is a riveting private investigator crime novel. If you are searching for a thrilling, suspense-filled mystery, this book is worth a read.
Pages: 277 | ASIN : B0BFBPGGMX
Entanglement
In Sheila Mae Bitts’ latest addition to the Falloy Private Detective series, Entanglement, readers are swept up into the clandestine world of espionage and criminal subterfuge. The story unfolds in the bustling city of Chicago, where our private investigator must assist a Hollywood actress in eluding the grasp of relentless Russian spies. As the plot thickens, Falloy and his accomplice Snow find themselves inadvertently entangled in a perilous situation, the danger of which extends to their unsuspecting circle of friends.
The intrigue deepens as a ruthless lead spy, hellbent on securing his authority, conspires to exploit any individual unfortunate enough to cross his path. As the narrative reaches its crescendo, Falloy finds himself in a perilous standoff with this formidable adversary, who tempts him with the power to rewrite history. Facing a consequential choice, Falloy must confront the far-reaching implications of his decisions.
Bitts crafts a heart-pounding detective suspense-thriller, meticulously piecing together an intricate narrative puzzle that keeps readers questioning and guessing at every twist and turn. She seeds doubt with finesse, leading her audience through a maze of deceptive clues and skillful misdirection. The denouement delivers a striking culmination of suspense and surprise, leaving readers both gratified and pondering. I do, however, think the writing could perhaps benefit from incorporating a touch more subtlety in order to fully capture the tense atmosphere and urgency.
While the narrative’s pacing displays a unique rhythm, oscillating between electrifying moments of adrenaline-fueled intensity and periods of slower, more contemplative exploration, this approach crafts a distinct reader experience. This variance in tempo, while a departure from the continuous high-speed momentum typically associated with thrillers, offers an opportunity for readers to fully absorb the rich details of the storyline and its characters, adding depth to the overall narrative.
With its ingeniously constructed plot twists and richly developed characters, Entanglement serves up a tantalizing cocktail of mystery, suspense, and intrigue, sure to tantalize fans of the genre.
Pages: 183 | ASIN : B0B8QQTC5N
In Time of Need
In Time of Need by Alan Zacher artfully weaves together elements of mystery and coming-of-age into the unique narrative about its charismatic protagonist, the 68-year-old Madeline. Surprising, even her husband, Madeline, embarks on an unexpected journey to fulfill her dream of becoming a private detective. Though her initial attempts are met with difficulty, a tragic event catapults her into her first real case.
When a close friend, Ruby, loses her daughter Laura in a devastating fire, she adamantly disputes the official verdict of accidental death. However, the preceding events cast a shadow of suspicion, prompting Ruby to enlist Madeline’s detective prowess. The investigation unravels a labyrinth of secrets, challenging everything Madeline thought she knew.
Author Alan Zacher excels in portraying rich and multifaceted characters, enabling the readers to establish an emotional connection, thus rendering them more than just two-dimensional figures in a novel. As we delve deeper into the intricate plot, we can’t help but ponder whether the unveiled truths will pave the way for justice.
Amidst this engrossing drama, the book also tenderly navigates the relationship between Madeline and her steadfast, though unassuming, husband, Peter. Their journey is so charming that readers will find themselves silently cheering for their happiness.
In Time of Need is a compelling read; I feel a potential area for refinement lies in one of the climactic scenes. Here, Madeline finds herself in jeopardy as she anticipates the arrival of a police officer. Unfortunately, his delay, albeit explained, appears implausible given his prior knowledge of Madeline’s predicament, creating a gap in an otherwise seamlessly woven plot.
In Time of Need is an engaging and suspenseful mystery with an enigmatic amateur sleuth. Zacher’s crafting of a well-structured narrative with interesting characters makes this novel a worthwhile read. The profound characterization, along with an intriguing plot, indeed offers an enthralling literary experience.
Pages: 157 | ASIN : B08N57L6F2
LITERARY TITAN 