Blog Archives
Driven to the Edge
Car Trouble follows a young man staggering under the weight of personal chaos, societal dysfunction, and one disaster after another—starting with his car catching fire on the freeway. Jim Crack is a fascinating character. What scene was the most interesting to write for that character?
The scene that got the ball rolling was walking down the sidewalk with my/his shirt off like at the beginning of the novel. Jim is a very personal character; he’s not me, but parts are; When I was in my early twenties, I was parking cars and working at a liquor store and had gone through a series of breakdowns, car-wise, if not mentally, including having a car breakdown on the way to get to a car that had broken down, and in the midst of being car-less, I was walking down the street with my shirt off on a hot day to my drug dealer’s house and imagined I must look like a desperate character to people driving by in their air-conditioned cars; This Jim Crack fellow was born of that, combined with having had a car burn down at an earlier point in my life on my way to a theme park where I worked (not Disneyland). Of all the stupid things I’ve done, maybe the dumbest was taking a ridiculous number and variety of guns a housemate had in his room because he owed money for rent. I drove around with them in my trunk for several weeks, during which I risked being pulled over for driving in a condition in which society prefers we not drive. I was also arrested once for stealing my car from a tow yard after a situation similar to Jim’s. I tried to build this into long-form, character-driven fiction. It was my first attempt at writing a novel, which I’m sure shows, but in trying to weave together a coherent narrative, the entire sentence-by-sentence process was interesting.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Being young and without resources while being maladapted to consumer culture underlies the main conflicts in the story. Without him realizing it exactly, Jim senses that the mechanized manner in which we live, represented especially by the automobile, is unnatural, and in certain terms, bad for the soul and the planet. Jim is a character driven to the edge of madness by the capital necessities to which we must all adapt every day or risk pushing our belongings around in a shopping cart, begging for food—which we see reflected in reality by the crisis of homelessness throughout the US. This idea is in opposition to the fantasy of Disneyland, where we find the sanitized version of the American Dream, where everyone is moral and upstanding. Against this backdrop, Jim seeks human connection, which for him comes through a VCR, while for Adam and Tink, sexuality is at odds with religious principles, and so the primate human animal desire is at odds with civilization as envisioned by Disney, Christian conservatism, and corporate America: that people grow up in happy homes with parents who love each other.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Fans. Ha. My next book, Maineiac, is a memoir about a time when I was not much older than Jim Crack, and I was doing a lot of psychedelics and drinking too much but was in love with a good Christian woman who was a friend from high school. I followed her out to Maine, driving across America, where I got a job on a lobster boat, and tried to work up the courage to tell her how I felt while struggling with alcoholism and doubts about religion. It’s set to be released by MSI/San Juan Press near the end of August.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
When his car burns to the ground, wallet and keys inside, twenty-one-year-old anti-hero Jim Crack is launched into an epic journey. He goes from being a Disneyland Goofy caught in a love triangle to jail for grand theft auto and from a reunion with his estranged father to running guns for a possible terrorist cell in Las Vegas. Jim’s only hope of redemption seems to be following his alcoholic Mormon friend back to Utah, where he hopes to get clean and escape to a more natural way of life.
Spider Seeds
David Tocher’s Spider Seeds is a genre-bending literary tale that blends horror, folklore, and psychological drama into a haunting and poignant coming-of-age story. The novel follows Madison Perth, a successful author haunted by a brutal act of teenage bullying and the creeping darkness that event plants within her. As an adult, she crosses paths with a strange plant shop and unwittingly reignites the sinister forces tied to her past. From the ghostly forests of British Columbia to the cozy neighborhoods of Victoria, the novel peels back layers of trauma, resilience, and transformation, both emotional and otherworldly.
Tocher’s writing hits hard and fast, then lingers like the sticky web it describes. What impressed me most was how vividly he brings scenes to life—one minute, you’re on a nostalgic walk through a peaceful, cherry-blossomed city; the next, you’re choking on dread in a shadowy gully. His prose carries the rhythm of folklore but is sharp with modern sensibility. The characters—especially Maddy—feel incredibly real. She’s prickly, vulnerable, brilliant, and deeply scarred, and that’s what makes her so compelling. Her inner monologue, particularly when battling the internal venom of her past, left me shaken and nodding in recognition.
But what stuck with me even more than the plot was the slow, chilling realization that Spider Seeds is really about infection, not just by something supernatural, but by hate, memory, guilt, and self-protection. The horror isn’t loud or gory; it’s soft, parasitic, and psychological. That said, I felt that a few narrative beats, like the mythos surrounding the plant and the shop’s family legacy, felt rushed. I wanted just a little more from the ending. Still, the way Tocher plays with tension and emotional stakes more than made up for it.
Spider Seeds is a novel for readers who enjoy their horror quiet but unforgettable—less jump scare, more creeping dread. It’s perfect for fans of Stephen King’s more psychological work, or even Neil Gaiman with a darker twist. Anyone who’s ever been bullied, or who still carries the weight of being “the outsider,” will see pieces of themselves in Maddy.
Pages: 124 | ISBN : 1068965495
Misunderstanding
Misunderstanding is a raw and poignant story that delves deep into the lives of two young girls, Alice and Lilly, who form an unlikely yet heartwarming bond against the backdrop of their turbulent lives. The story traces their journey from childhood, marked by trauma and resilience, into adolescence, where their friendship becomes both a refuge and a source of strength. It contrasts the bleak realities of abuse and neglect with moments of courage, loyalty, and tender humanity.
The author’s writing is incredibly vivid and emotionally gripping. From the first chapter, I felt plunged into Alice’s world, where playing with a battered deck of cards in a dingy trailer represents her only escape from a harsh reality. The scene where Alice’s father storms into their home, unleashing chaos and violence, left a knot in my stomach. The author doesn’t shy away from portraying the grim truth of Alice’s life, yet through it all, Alice’s spirit shines—a beacon of strength in her dark world. The way her imagination transforms mundane objects into rich, creative stories is both heartbreaking and beautiful.
On the other hand, Lilly’s life, although materially comfortable, is emotionally hollow. Her mother’s obsession with appearances and her father’s passive enabling create a veneer of perfection masking dysfunction. The scene in which Lilly timidly watches her mother’s frantic dress selection struck me deeply. It underscored how Lilly is often left to navigate her mother’s whims and insecurities alone. The stark contrast between Alice and Lilly’s circumstances highlights how trauma can take many forms—some glaring, others insidious.
The friendship between Alice and Lilly is the heart of the book. Their bond, forged in innocence and mutual understanding, becomes a lifeline for both girls. A standout moment is when Alice defends Lilly at the playground, facing down bullies with a ferocity that belies her small stature. It’s both touching and powerful. Their friendship is further tested and deepened at summer camp, where they face external threats and internal doubts. The pacing in some sections feels uneven, with intense moments sometimes overshadowing quieter, reflective scenes that I think could have added more depth to the characters’ emotional journeys. Even so, the scenes of Alice asserting her dominance over camp bullies or Lilly finding her own voice are uplifting and satisfying.
The book also raises questions about resilience and justice. The harrowing chapter where Alice is attacked by Oliver is difficult to read but important. It confronts the readers with the stark reality of abuse and the societal systems that often fail victims. Alice’s courage in recounting the event and her determination to move forward are inspiring, though the lingering injustice is a bitter pill to swallow. This section is handled with sensitivity and nuance, keeping the focus on Alice’s perspective and strength. While the story is emotionally powerful and deeply moving, I felt it occasionally relies on familiar tropes of trauma and redemption.
This book is a compelling and emotional read that I would recommend to anyone interested in stories about resilience, friendship, and the complexity of human relationships. It is especially suited for readers who appreciate layered characters and narratives that balance darkness with hope. While it doesn’t shy away from harsh realities, it also reminds us of the power of connection and the strength found in even the youngest hearts.
Pages: 186 | ASIN : B0DTF6124W
Unlawful Games
Unlawful Games, by Adam Klein, is a gripping legal thriller that plunges readers into a world of high-stakes tension and moral ambiguity. From the outset, Klein crafts an action-packed murder mystery, leaving readers glued to the pages as they try to unravel the dark secrets and deadly traps that surround Salvatore Amici, a promising defense attorney in New York City. Salvatore, fresh from a courtroom victory, is basking in the praise of his family and friends when his life takes a chilling turn: a former client, newly acquitted, becomes the prime suspect in a brutal double homicide. But why was he targeted? And what danger lies ahead?
The suspense in Unlawful Games doesn’t ease up. Klein masterfully weaves in plot twists, from anonymous threats at Salvatore’s doorstep to harrowing encounters with law enforcement, that keep readers on edge. Just as you think you’ve pieced together the mystery, a shocking new revelation emerges, pulling you deeper into the story’s intricate web. Klein’s skillful pacing and efficient prose make this complexity manageable within the novel’s concise length, under 300 pages, yet the impact lingers long after. While the plot is fast-paced and intense, Klein’s characterizations, particularly Salvatore’s, provide a thought-provoking look at the attorney’s internal struggles. Salvatore’s professional facade cracks under the weight of guilt and self-doubt as he questions his own ethics and the consequences of his work.
I do believe that the supporting characters could benefit from deeper detail. While Salvatore’s wife and children appear throughout as anchors in his tumultuous life, they serve more as background elements than as fully realized characters. Klein’s writing style, formal and precise, seems to draw from his familiarity with legal settings, adding authenticity to Salvatore’s voice. By the end of the novel, some mysteries remain unanswered, leaving an open door for a sequel. Klein sets the stage for further character development and exploration into Salvatore’s troubled conscience and professional battles, a prospect that would appeal to readers captivated by this suspenseful first book.
Unlawful Games is a suspenseful and tightly crafted thriller, filled with shocking twists and high emotional stakes, solidifying Klein as a writer of intense, character-driven mysteries. It’s a compelling read that leaves readers questioning what justice truly means.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0BL3DLMXW
Ulterior Motive
No Stone Left Unturned follows Stone and his companions as they search for a missing child across North and Central America. What inspired the story’s setup, and how did that help you create the ending?
More and more, we have heard of human trafficking globally, quite often, children being abducted. With my cast of protectors, the question would be, “What would you go through to get your child back?” Politics seem to get in the way of immediate actions, especially when the theatre is international in scope, so many agencies get involved (I left a dedication to these heroes). So, at the end of the book, when the Secretary of State gets shot by an armed assailant, our antagonist makes a call for Raines and the team to get involved to protect the President. Is there an ulterior motive?
What inspired the relationship that developed between the characters?
Raines, the oldest of the team, comes across as the big brother, leader, or father figure. He has dealt with all members of the team in different ways. Cameron is his equal in fighting, Michael is his son and accomplished in his own right, and Sara is a solid female component to the team, for which Raines shows much respect. He is also sensitive to the fact that she and Cameron have a child together and misses the family bond. Serina, a new member, compliments Sara.
Where do you see your characters after the book ends?
Ahhhh, with an overwhelmingly positive response to this third installment, they will all continue in book 4, The Ghost and Stone. It picks up where this book leaves off.
What is the next book you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it?
The Ghost and Stone will be out late next Spring and feature plenty of action.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The characters’ emotional journeys take center stage amid the high-octane martial arts action and suspense. As the pressure intensifies, their vulnerabilities and insecurities come to the forefront, testing their resolve and pushing some to confront their pasts. The relationships between team members deepen as they rely on each other’s strengths and support to navigate the treacherous path ahead. The tension rises with each revelation as the story hurtles toward its climax.
Homecoming Queen: A Small Town Political Thriller
Homecoming Queen by Chad Boudreaux is a gripping political thriller set in the small, turbulent town of Miranda, Texas. The story centers on Anika Raven, a determined woman who returns to her hometown to rescue her younger sister from a neglectful and dangerous home environment. Along the way, Anika uncovers dark secrets about the town, its people, and herself, all while navigating a landscape fraught with political corruption, personal vendettas, and a brewing natural disaster.
Boudreaux’s writing is compelling and immersive, capturing the essence of small-town life with a flair for suspense and drama. The prologue sets the tone with an eerie interview, hinting at the town’s sinister undercurrents. The characters are well-developed, each with their own flaws and motivations, making them feel real and relatable. Anika’s fierce determination and vulnerability make her a protagonist you can root for, even as she grapples with her own demons. One of the standout elements of the book is its vivid depiction of Miranda. The town itself feels like a character, with its rich history, unique culture, and a palpable sense of foreboding. The interplay between the town’s past and present adds depth to the narrative, making the reader feel as though they are uncovering the town’s secrets alongside Anika. Boudreaux’s attention to detail, from the dilapidated homes of the Lower West Side to the opulent residences of the Upper East Side, paints a vivid picture of a community on the brink. Scotty Mathis, the antagonist, effectively drives the plot forward with his clear-cut villainy, keeping the story engaging and fast-paced. Anika’s journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is about saving her sister. The book raises important questions about the lengths one will go to protect loved ones and the sacrifices that come with it. Boudreaux masterfully weaves these themes into a fast-paced plot that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
Homecoming Queen is a compelling read for fans of political thrillers and small-town dramas. Chad Boudreaux delivers a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with well-crafted characters and a richly detailed setting. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of suspense, action, and emotional depth. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling page-turner or a story that delves into the complexities of human relationships, this is a novel that will not disappoint.
Pages: 344 | ISBN : 1636983677
Digger
In Digger by Arjay Lewis, readers meet Joshua Bennet, a young reporter grappling with his father’s mysterious and sudden death. Raised on his father’s stories of nocturnal horrors and having witnessed inexplicable events himself, Joshua doubts the official explanation of his father’s demise. Determined to uncover the truth, he sets out to find his father’s old ally, known only as Digger. Armed with nothing but an alias, Joshua’s journalistic skills are put to the test in a quest that proves more daunting than expected.
Throughout the novel, Joshua relies on childhood notes about his father’s escapades as a demon hunter, using his journalism career not only as a means to investigate but also as a disguise to deflect suspicion in the small, tight-knit communities he explores. These settings are vividly portrayed, with residents’ wariness adding a layer of authenticity to each encounter. Joshua’s pretense of researching articles lends him just enough credibility to continue his inquiries, gradually peeling back layers of mystery with each reluctant source he persuades.
Fans of supernatural dramas like “Supernatural” or “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” will find Digger a novel take on the demon hunter narrative. Lewis refreshes a familiar genre by shifting the perspective to an outsider, adding a layer of intrigue and novelty. Without revealing too much, the narrative excels in drawing readers into Joshua’s relentless pursuit of the enigmatic Digger. The pacing of the book is deliberate, with early chapters setting a measured tempo that crescendos into a gripping, sleep-defying conclusion.
For those drawn to supernatural thrillers and horror, Digger promises a compelling blend of suspense and the unexplained.
Pages: 412 | ASIN : B0C5TKXXJS
A Talent and Skill to Build On
The Red Deuce follows twin sisters working in different government agencies who accidentally wind up uncovering an international conspiracy, putting their lives at risk. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I was serving as the general counsel of a public company, I was visited by a CIA agent who requested that our company employ agents used by the intelligence service in the former USSR. More recently, the counterintelligence chief of the NY office of the FBI was charged and convicted for passing intelligence secrets to China. These were the two incidents leading to my book, Red Deuce.
Twins are known to have a special bond, making them an intriguing choice for your main characters. What was your inspiration for the characters and their relationship?
I come from a family with twins, though they preceded me by a couple generations. I felt that the interplay between twins would make for a rich personal context for protagonists.
Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself?
Yes, I see myself now as a creative person, a talent and skill that I now have a chance to build on and improve.
I find a problem in well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned for the sisters?
Absolutely! Books two and three are done but in different stages of editing. I have plans for books four and five, with possibly more to come.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
One fiery redhead in the family can be a caution. When the redhead comes in a pair it means double trouble for anyone who bets against them.
Mandy Doucette is a by-the-book corporate lawyer whose work includes vetting acquisitions. Her twin sister, Reggie, is an FBI pathologist. Both are happy in their respective comfort zones.
But things are about to change. First, Mandy senses something is wrong with a proposed acquisition. She spots a mystery behind why a major corporation made a whistleblower’s complaint disappear—along with the whistleblower.
Soon Mandy’s up to her eyeballs in trouble. She’s risking her life to stop moles from stealing American defense technology and trying to figure out who is trying to frame, then kill her. At the same time, Reggie is investigating corpses dug up in cornfields and forests. Could they be the key to what Mandy is investigating? Suddenly, Reggie’s life is also at risk.
As the sisters dig deeper and come out of their comfort zones, one thing is for certain—you don’t want to get these redheads mad. If they can stay out of the assassin’s crosshairs, they might just bring down your international conspiracy.
Ladies and gentlemen, place your bets. The twists and turns are about to begin.
LITERARY TITAN 