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Twists and Turns
Muddy the Water follows a detective in pursuit of a suspected murderer who manages to reinvent himself as a reporter for a small-town newspaper in South Carolina. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
In 1997 Matt drove south from Virginia to Hilton Head, SC, to start a job as a reporter for a small newspaper called the Hilton Head Island Packet. That’s when he started thinking: what if he got bumped off and the guy who showed up for work the next day at The Packet was an impostor? After all, Matt had been hired over the phone. No one had any idea what he looked like. That kernel of an idea rattled around in Matt’s head for decades. He even sketched out the plot and wrote down character names. Abraham Mink was one of them. But it never went beyond that until February 2020, when he relayed the rough idea to Jessica during a family dinner. “Let’s write it together” she said, her eyes on fire. A few days later, Jessica had contacted a coroner from Jasper County, SC, to confirm that a dead body could, in fact, travel seventy-five miles downstream and make it largely intact to the ocean. With the coroner’s blessing, we were off!
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing, or did it develop organically?
As we mentioned, the kernel of the mystery occurred to Matt as he drove to his first job, but there were 30 more chapters to come up with. One day early in the pandemic, we both woke up before dawn, caffeinated ourselves thoroughly, and got on a Zoom together to map out the plot. On a whiteboard, we outlined about 20 chapters, which we hoped would be enough for a full novel. We found out after about six months of writing that the manuscript was a bit thin so we added a few more twists and turns to flesh it out.
What do you find is 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?
We find the hardest part of writing a mystery is laying the trail of hints that we leave for the readers. It has to be subtle enough not to give away the big reveal, but clear enough that the reader notices it. There also have to be carefully considered “red herrings” that also catch the readers’ attention and softly distract them from figuring out the ultimate ending. One of the good things about writing as a team is you can bounce those ideas back and forth to determine what will really work.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes! Matt and Jessica are pleased to announce a sequel to Muddy the Water (whose title is yet to be determined) with many of the same characters, including Lillian Grimes, Ben Broome and Florence Park. It, too, will be grounded in facts with lots of believable twists and turns and a fantastic finale!
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Website | Amazon
When a half-eaten body washes in, it becomes the biggest story in the paper’s history and brings cunning, charismatic Ben immediate success. But it also leads Grimes closer to the truth. She soon teams up with hungry rival reporter Florence Park to hunt Ben down before he can charm-or kill-his way to freedom.
Shown from three perspectives, killer, detective, and reporter, Muddy the Water brings readers inside the newsroom of a struggling small newspaper on the bucolic South Carolina coast and speaks to the concept of identity-and whether anyone ever shows his or her true self.
Muddy the Water
Haversport, Massachusetts, appears idyllic—a serene, coastal haven. That illusion shatters when a beloved fishing captain is discovered savagely murdered. Suspicion immediately falls on Ben Broome, a defiant young deckhand. Detective Lillian Grimes, convinced of his guilt, is ready to make her move, but Broome vanishes before she can act. Months later, he resurfaces in South Carolina, not as a fugitive but as a reporter for a small newspaper. Fame quickly finds him when a decomposed body washes ashore. Meanwhile, Detective Grimes partners with Florence Park, a rival journalist, to track Broome down. Yet, Broome has plans of his own, upending their pursuit in unexpected ways.
Muddy the Water, by Matt Barrows and Jessica Barrows Beebe, unfolds as a gripping mystery-crime novel, skillfully narrated from three distinct perspectives: Detective Grimes, Ben Broome, and Florence Park. This narrative approach evokes the intricate storytelling of Dashiell Hammett and Michael Connelly. By alternating narrators, the authors enrich the story, providing depth and nuance that elevate it above a standard whodunit. Each perspective brings something vital to the narrative. Broome, initially a suspect steeped in mystery, emerges as a multi-dimensional character grappling with moral ambiguity. Grimes, seemingly a textbook detective archetype, reveals layers of complexity that make her both relatable and compelling. Park’s voice, unbiased and sharp, offers readers a clear lens through which to view the escalating tension, grounding the story amid its twists and turns.
The structural ambition of the novel is worth noting. Shifting between three protagonists could have easily disrupted the pacing or diluted the impact, but Barrows and Beebe handle it with remarkable finesse. Their seamless transitions and strong characterizations make the narrative cohesion feel effortless, even as the plot hurtles forward with intensity. Readers will find plenty to admire here. The dialogue is thoughtful and deliberate, adding a contemplative tone to the thrilling plot. The pacing balances moments of quiet revelation with bursts of high-stakes drama. Most importantly, the conclusion is deeply satisfying—a payoff that feels genuinely earned rather than conveniently delivered.
Muddy the Water is more than a murder mystery; it’s a character-driven exploration of truth, deception, and justice. Fans of crime fiction will appreciate its clever twists, while those new to the genre will find themselves captivated by its rich storytelling and dynamic cast. This novel proves that in the hands of skilled authors, even the murkiest waters can yield treasures worth discovering.
Pages: 258 | ASIN : B0DLLHQXWX
The Lonely Prisoner
In The Lonely Prisoner, Michael J. Kundu crafts a compelling tale of injustice and resilience, shedding light on systemic corruption within the justice system. At 25, Michael Fletcher’s promising life is shattered after a drunken night leads to his wrongful conviction for murder. Sentenced to 26 years, he loses his youth, family, and future. Emerging from prison hardened by isolation, Michael begins to question the forces behind his ordeal. Why was exonerating evidence ignored? Why did the system fail him at every turn? With help from an unexpected ally, Michael uncovers a web of greed and corruption that orchestrated his downfall. Kundu’s vivid storytelling brings to life a harrowing journey through loss, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth.
Michael J. Kundu has a knack for immersing the reader in his protagonist’s emotional state. The opening chapter vividly captures the cold sterility of prison, painting a bleak picture of Michael’s initial shock and despair. This emotional rawness is a strength throughout the book. Kundu’s characters are well-drawn. Michael’s interactions with Jack, the night guard, are among the book’s most engaging moments. Jack’s enigmatic presence, marked by his piercing blue eyes and reserved demeanor, added a layer of mystery and camaraderie. I found their conversations a highlight, as they offered Michael (and the reader) a glimpse of humanity in a cold environment. That said, I feel the lawyer, Vincent, felt somewhat underdeveloped. I was left wanting more insight into his motivations and perspective on the case. While the tension between the defense and prosecution was palpable and made for a compelling read, some aspects felt a bit too dramatized. That said, the injustice of the trial is what makes the story so fascinating, and Kundu does a good job of stirring frustration in the reader—a sign of highly effective storytelling.
This slow-burning thriller unfolds at its own deliberate pace, immersing readers in its layered narrative and emotional depth. The Lonely Prisoner is a masterful blend of crime fiction and psychological exploration, a must-read for those who crave stories that linger long after the final page. Kundu’s work is both a chilling indictment of systemic failure and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Pages: 198 | ISBN : 978-1962987387
Black Yéʼii (The Evil One)
Black Yéʼii is a gripping psychological thriller that plunges readers into the duality of love and evil in a small Wisconsin town. The story weaves between past trauma and present terror as Angel Benevides, his mother, and his friends made up of adopted brothers become the targets of a deadly revenge plot tied to the enigmatic and fearsome Navajo deity, Black Yéʼii. The book begins with a chilling home invasion and murder, setting the tone for a narrative filled with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and shocking twists. Lewis masterfully interlaces Navajo spiritual elements with the gritty realism of crime, creating a world where loyalty, courage, and survival are tested at every turn.
Joseph Lewis writes with an unflinching eye for detail. The opening chapter hooked me immediately, its brutal depiction of the home invasion was both horrifying and mesmerizing. His vivid descriptions made Carmen Benevides’s fear palpable, and the attackers’ malice leaped off the page. Lewis’s knack for pacing is remarkable. Each scene flows naturally into the next, leaving no room for filler. The dialogue is sharp and often tinged with an authenticity that adds layers to each character, particularly the enigmatic George Tokay.
The incorporation of Navajo mythology into a modern crime thriller is both unique and compelling. The concept of Black Yéʼii as a metaphor for the darkness within human nature is thought-provoking. I particularly enjoyed the moments where George reflects on his cultural heritage, it brings a poignant depth to the narrative. I felt that the supernatural elements were sometimes underutilized. While they added intrigue, I wished the story explored more of Black Yéʼii’s mystical presence rather than keeping it primarily symbolic. The balance of cultural richness and crime drama is a fresh take that sets this book apart. Angel’s tragic arc is heart-wrenching, and his vulnerability contrasts sharply with the cruelty of his attackers. George Tokay, as a central figure, is fascinating. His connection to both the spiritual and physical battles in the story gives him a unique edge.
The camaraderie among the brothers is a highlight, especially their moments of quiet reflection at the lake. These softer scenes provide a necessary counterpoint to the violence and elevate the story from a simple thriller to something more emotionally resonant.
Black Yéʼii is an intense and thought-provoking read that merges psychological tension with cultural depth. While its graphic content won’t be for everyone, those who appreciate dark, character-driven thrillers will find it hard to put down. I’d recommend it to readers looking for a story that lingers in the mind long after the last page.
Pages: 425 | ASIN : B0DH8P5TNV
Fertile Ground for Murder
Fertile Ground for Murder, by Stella Sinclaire, is a compelling mystery that pulls readers into the troubled life of Samantha Brewer, a podcaster thrust back into her small-town roots to uncover the truth behind a tragic murder. The story kicks off when Samantha, forced to confront memories she’d rather forget, returns to Willow Creek to investigate the death of her childhood friend and mentor, Ethan Green. As she digs deeper into a case fraught with tension, buried secrets, and environmental disputes, Samantha finds herself entangled in a twisted web where even familiar faces hide the darkest truths.
Sinclaire does an excellent job of setting the stage with rich sensory details that breathe life into the rural landscape. The descriptions are often so vivid that you can almost smell the tangy scent of tomatoes ripening in Green Acres Farm’s fields or feel the oppressive Iowa heat sticking to your skin. What struck me most was how well the characters are fleshed out. Samantha is relatable in her struggle to reconcile past and present, and Lucas Fernandez, Ethan’s protégé, stands out as a particularly layered figure. The tension between Samantha and Lucas is palpable, especially when he confesses to a reckless mistake that could paint him as a prime suspect. It’s moments like these that make the emotional stakes of the investigation skyrocket, leaving me genuinely invested in their fates.
Yet, there’s also a fair share of melodrama, particularly in scenes with Samantha’s overbearing mother, Delores, whose dramatic entrances and passive-aggressive remarks sometimes verge on soap opera territory. Sinclaire’s writing shines in dialogue, especially when small-town dynamics come into play. Conversations at Mae’s Diner or the terse exchanges with Sheriff Cooper are crackling with tension and unspoken history. These scenes not only advance the plot but also serve as a social commentary on tradition versus progress.
Fertile Ground for Murder is a solid pick for fans of small-town mysteries steeped in rich character development and environmental themes. The book deftly explores the price of progress, generational conflicts, and the lengths people go to protect their way of life. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves atmospheric mysteries with a slow-burn feel and doesn’t mind a bit of sentimentality. If you enjoy uncovering secrets in a place where even the cornfields seem to whisper their disapproval, Sinclaire’s latest will keep you hooked until the last page.
Pages: 162 | ASIN : B0DFW5F4QV
Caretaker (The Goodpasture Chronicles)
Caretaker, the first installment in The Goodpasture Chronicles by R.J. Halbert, is an intriguing blend of historical mystery, family drama, and supernatural elements. The story follows Ian and Lyana Keane, a couple who move with their children to a mysterious old house in a small town, hoping for a fresh start after a series of personal losses. As they settle into their new home, they begin to uncover the secrets of the house and its connection to the enigmatic Goodpasture family, leading them on a journey that intertwines the past with their present.
What immediately stands out in Caretaker is Halbert’s ability to create a sense of place. The descriptions of the Goodpasture house and the small town of Littleton are vivid, almost cinematic, making it easy to imagine the sprawling gardens, the eerie, fog-laden driveway, and the antique-filled rooms of the old mansion. The house itself is practically a character in the story, with its creaking floors, hidden rooms, and a mysterious caretaker who seems to know more than he lets on. Halbert does an excellent job of building an atmosphere that is both inviting and unsettling, pulling the reader deeper into the mystery. The character development in the book is another strong point. Lyana, in particular, is a well-drawn character whose struggles with her past and hopes for her family’s future make her relatable and compelling. Her journey from skepticism to belief, as she encounters the house’s strange phenomena, is handled with subtlety and care. The dynamic between the Keane family members, especially between Lyana and her children, adds depth to the story and grounds the supernatural elements in a very human experience. The flashbacks to Lyana’s childhood, although sometimes jarring, effectively build her backstory and explain her motivations. The story thoughtfully takes its time in the beginning, richly establishing the setting and characters, which allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the world before diving into the central mystery. As the plot progresses, the pace accelerates, drawing you deeper into the unfolding events. The buildup of tension is masterfully handled, leading to satisfying revelations that keep readers engaged while also leaving just enough unanswered questions to create anticipation for future installments.
Caretaker is a captivating read that blends elements of mystery, history, and the supernatural into a story about family, loss, and the search for new beginnings. R.J. Halbert’s skillful storytelling and rich descriptions make it an enjoyable journey, particularly for readers who appreciate a slow-burn mystery with emotional depth. I would recommend this book to fans of gothic fiction, haunted house stories, and those who enjoy a well-crafted family drama with a touch of the supernatural.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B0D15KJXBR
Trapped by Your Own Thoughts
In MINDFARM: The Harvest, a man trying desperately to stay grounded discovers the truth about mankind when he finds himself part of a unique group of people each battling their own mental illnesses. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Well, I often found myself falling victim to my own mental illness. The resulting battles in my own mind would leave me exhausted…questioning why I would spend so much of my own mental energy belittling myself or imagining catastrophic events. That’s when the idea came to me, to focus my mind on creating a story that was filled with some of the most ridiculous imaginative thoughts I could have. I wanted to bring conspiracies to life that the protagonist would be left questioning until the very end.
What was your favorite character to write for and why? Was there a scene you felt captured the character’s essence?
I loved writing the main character because so many of his qualities (BiPolar, funny, Dad,) are my own…you write what you know. There’s a scene where he is laying in bed in Old Victoria, thinking about his loved ones back home…but his mind quickly changes its train of thought to despair… that scene perfectly encompasses what it is like to be trapped by your own thoughts.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from MINDFARM?
I hope people will ultimately understand what it is like living with particular mental illnesses… and how hard life can be. I hope the book will inspire people to pursue more creative hobbies to direct their brain power to something that can benefit them and others.
Can you give us a peek inside Book 2 in the series? What can readers expect?
Book 2 is in development! Expect more fun and even more action in this book…. I plan on having a few twists and turns. We will also be getting more backstories from our current DOA members with their own internal dialogues/narration!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
MINDFARM
Imagine if everything you knew about your life was shattered in a single day. What if you discovered you’ve been living a lie? And what if you couldn’t even trust yourself? In Mindfarm: The Harvest, Andrew DiVincenzo takes us on a journey with a man on the brink of losing his sanity, desperately trying to stay grounded.
The story unfolds mostly within one day, centering around Jetson Stewart as he uncovers a truth too bizarre to believe. Despite its serious themes of mental health, the book is infused with a delightful sense of humor. It’s rare for contemporary sci-fi to make me laugh out loud, but this one did, repeatedly. DiVincenzo introduces the sci-fi elements in a refreshingly unique way, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. His skill in world-building and character development is evident; the characters come alive, resonating deeply with readers. The blend of comedy, sci-fi, heroism, and psychological fiction keeps you guessing at every turn, making the story both heartwarming and thought-provoking.
One of the standout aspects of Mindfarm: The Harvest is its ability to entertain while offering insightful commentary on mental health. Through Jetson’s experiences, readers gain a better understanding and empathy towards bipolar disorder, a testament to DiVincenzo’s writing prowess. When a reader can empathize with the characters, the author has truly succeeded.
The writing itself has a nice rhythm and pace, making the pages turn effortlessly. If you’re looking for a light-hearted yet meaningful sci-fi read, Mindfarm: The Harvest is an excellent choice. It entertains, educates, and leaves a lasting impression, embodying the essence of what great art should achieve.
Pages: 383 | ASIN : B0D21PQWVQ
