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The Mountain Mystic
In Russell W. Johnson’s gripping murder mystery, The Mountain Mystic, Sheriff Marybeth Cain, the county’s inaugural female sheriff and successor to her late husband, grapples with the unresolved disappearance of family friend Maria Ruiz—a case that predates her tenure. The saga deepens when, against better judgment, she consults a psychic, leading to revelations that challenge her to veer off the traditional investigative path and risk her career for the sake of truth.
As the second installment in the Mountaineers Mystery series, this novel captivates with its intense narrative and complex protagonist. Marybeth is portrayed as both fearless and flawed, a combination that adds layers to her character and keeps readers engaged. Her dynamic with her deputy injects a lighter tone into the otherwise somber storyline, balancing the gravity of their investigations with moments of camaraderie. Johnson’s talent shines through in his ability to develop tangible characters and craft a tight plot peppered with unexpected twists.
The Mountain Mystic moves at a brisk pace, interweaving suspenseful detective work with profound character studies. This blend of action and introspection ensures that the narrative is as thrilling as it is thought-provoking. With its sophisticated plot twists, richly drawn characters, and vivid setting, this book will appeal to enthusiasts of the mystery genre looking for a story that both entertains and challenges.
The Mountain Mystic delivers a compelling mix of suspense and depth, making it a standout addition to the Mountaineers Mystery series. Johnson’s adept storytelling not only entertains but also invites readers to ponder the complexities of justice and truth. This novel is a must-read for those who appreciate a mystery that offers both intellectual engagement and heart-pounding moments.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0D1YW857L
A Dangerous Combination
Death By Association follows a woman living in a small resort village who tries to solve a murder mystery that all started with a scandal in the HOA. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Let’s be honest: HOA Boards tend to attract the power-hungry and bored, always a dangerous combination. HOAs also wield a surprising amount of genuine legal power. When you mix that power with a few individuals who have too much time, nothing better to do, and a taste for snooping on their neighbors, you get a hot mess. Hating the HOA is a universal, shared human experience, and it’s surprising more meetings don’t end in open murder! The inspiration for the book came directly from an internal fracas at the homeowners association in my own neighborhood, which was precipitated by a series of vicious letters and emails. Nobody died, of course, but it felt like it might easily have come to that.
Desert Pines seems like the perfect place to go when you want to just escape the fast-paced life. Was there a reason why you chose this location as the backdrop for your story?
The city of Desert Pines is based loosely on the small resort town of Sunriver, Oregon. I spent most of my summers there growing up and still try to get out there several times a year. The nice thing about a Resort setting is that there is great fuel for the imagination and even better sources of material. Some of the population is settled, but much of it is transient, providing a great opportunity for steady characters and new faces alike. I’m also fascinated by the idea that human drama will happen wherever there are humans. Crime and heartbreak aren’t confined to the big city, and the most interesting dramas can play out in the smallest of settings
Is there anything about Jane that came from yourself or your life experiences?
Jane often speaks with my voice, but I have also enjoyed giving her opinions and feelings that I don’t share as well. Writing is a very cathartic exercise, a perfect way to inhabit personalities, emotions, and thoughts that are much different from your own. Jane shares my sense of the ridiculous, for sure, but I’m much less reserved than she is.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
The next book in the series, called Rapid Death, continues the adventures of Jane, Joe, and Howard and was released in July of 2023. The third book in the series, Death Benefit, will be released in early summer of 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook
Jane McLaren is happy living and working in the sleepy resort village of Desert Pines, Oregon – or so she tells herself. She has a home with her feisty grandfather for as long as she wants it, a steady job as a barista, and no questions asked.
Boredom may be a small price to pay for privacy, but Jane quickly discovers that when nothing has meaning, you might start to care about anything. Even the HOA.
After a minor town scandal escalates into something more sinister, neighbor turns on neighbor and the annual meeting of the homeowners association ends in open murder.
Can this unwilling amateur sleuth solve the mystery before it’s too late, or will the murderer strike again?
Death By Association
Death By Association by Julie Titterington is set in the tranquil town of Desert Pines—a setting that protagonist Jane McLaren appreciates for its unhurried pace. Recently relocated to live with her grandfather, Dr. Howard McLaren, Jane starts anew, working as a barista and forming a close friendship with her employer, Timothy. Her routine life takes a sharp turn when a distraught local, Chad, warns her of a brewing “HOA crisis.” Jane’s curiosity is piqued, but she soon realizes that this local drama is about to escalate into a murder investigation, pulling her into the midst of it due to her unique past skills.
The novel thrives on its dynamic ensemble. The HOA board, a mosaic of philanthropists, doctors, and real estate agents, not only harbors personal secrets but also a collective animosity toward their controversial president, Chad Perenna. The introduction of a determined and charming detective, Joe Conner, adds another layer to the narrative as he seeks Jane’s assistance in solving the crime. Titterington excels in crafting deep, multifaceted characters, particularly in detailing Jane’s relationships with Timothy, Detective Conner, and her grandfather. The tensions among the spouses of the board members and the looming threat of wildfires bring additional depth and urgency to the story. Engaging and filled with intrigue, Death By Association is a compelling start to what promises to be an absorbing series. The book’s rich character development and clever plot twists make it a recommended read for those who enjoy thrillers with strong female leads and complex interpersonal dynamics.
Death By Association serves as a captivating introduction to Julie Titterington’s new series, expertly weaving suspense and rich character development. The story invites readers to delve into the deceptively quiet world of Desert Pines, where every character conceals layers yet to be uncovered. This novel is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a thriller that balances intrigue with deep personal connections.
Pages: 330 | ASIN : B0BR8JJ3K7
It’s Not Work, It’s Fun
Child of Secrets From Afar follows a couple looking to grow their family. They adopt two Vietnamese girls, one of whom has an enigmatic past and goes missing. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I remember hearing that some of the Vietnamese orphans rescued during Operation Babylift in 1975 weren’t really orphans at all. Some of the older children had intact families back in Vietnam and wanted to return home. That always intrigued me. I wondered if their parents had deliberately sent them away from the war zone for safety reasons, or if they’d been accidentally swept up, which is what happened to some children I’d seen profiled on a documentary, or what. There’s an element of the unknown in an adoption, where the new parents just don’t know everything about the former life of their adopted child. I figured that might make a good basis for a mystery, especially one involving a child from the days when South Vietnam was falling and the place was in utter chaos.
When writing a new novel, what comes first for you — the plot or the characters — and why?
The plot. Definitely the plot! I get an idea for a story, choose the time and place, and I start building on that. The characters just start to pop into my head once I’ve settled on the story premise. I can easily visualize them as I start to write about them.
Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?
I always loved books as a child, especially mysteries. Nancy Drew, The Bobbsey Twins, The Happy Hollisters – I loved them all. Mysteries are still my favorite genre. I must have literally hundreds of books on my Kindle. Besides, I wholeheartedly enjoy putting a story together. It’s not like work for me. It’s fun!
Can you share any upcoming projects or plans for future books?
I work on several at a time, believe it or not. I came up with an idea for one recently, a mystery set right here in New York City, where I live, and have been working on it. I also think a few of my previous books, like BACKSTABBED ON BROADWAY and A CHARM WITHOUT A CHAIN, could be turned into series. Both of those have characters that it would be fun to put into new situations with new mysteries to solve.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Blog
When a strange Vietnamese man Belinda doesn’t know takes such an interest in Liana that he tracks her to the O’Malley’s Indiana hometown, Belinda has to wonder what is going on. The stakes are raised higher when their new daughter, who isn’t forthcoming about her past, goes missing not long after this odd guy shows up.
Who is this man? What does he want with her child? And what, for that matter, went on with eight-year-old Liana, back in Vietnam, to have sparked this whole dilemma in the first place?
A riveting mystery about a well-intentioned American family and their adopted child of secrets.
Child of Secrets From Afar
In Child of Secrets From Afar, the author weaves a gripping narrative that explores the complex dynamics of an American family completing its circle through adoption. Belinda and Jonathan, after years of yearning for a sibling for their daughter, adopt two Vietnamese girls; one who has spent her whole life in an orphanage and the other with an enigmatic past. The story unfolds as the family encounters unforeseen challenges and secrets, particularly concerning the girls’ adjustment to their new life.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in the author’s nuanced portrayal of family and adoption. Quinn’s detailed narrative vividly depicts the character’s emotions and experiences, drawing readers into the heart of the family’s journey. The mystery element is skillfully interwoven, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the truths hidden in the girls’ pasts. The character development, especially of Belinda, is a highlight. Her determination to protect and understand her daughters adds a layer of depth to the story, offering a resonant depiction of familial love and commitment.
The narrative style is immersive, allowing readers to envision the unfolding events and feel an integral part of the story. The novel presents a unique plot with well-crafted characters and an engaging mystery at its core. Quinn’s descriptive storytelling not only maintains the reader’s interest but also thoroughly examines what it means to be a family.
As the story reaches its conclusion, the intricacies of the family’s journey are revealed with a deft touch, providing a satisfying resolution to the mysteries that have been so central to the narrative. Quinn’s skillful storytelling ensures that the themes of family, belonging, and the enduring power of love resonate long after the final page is turned.
Child of Secrets From Afar offers a compelling tale and invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of adoption and the unbreakable bonds that can form within a family, regardless of its origins. It’s a poignant reminder of the lengths we go to for those we love, making it a memorable and impactful read.
Pages: 162 | ASIN : B0CVNBXZ98
The Difference Between Justice and the Law
In Out of the Shadows, a woman fueled by revenge and the encouragement of a new acquaintance turns her passion for justice into a career as a detective. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As a psychiatric advocate, I once overheard the trans woman who later became Gloria say exactly what Gloria did when we first met her. I never met her but I kept those few sentences in my head for 10 years until I found a story to put her in.
Hannah, on the other hand, is a mix of many, many people I have known, both professionally (as a psychiatric professional), and personally, who had terribly traumatic early lives but managed to survive and were some of the most heroic people I ever met. The story evolved from the characters, as most of my stories do, with them leading the way.
I thought your characters were incredibly memorable and relatable. Which character in the novel do you feel you relate to more and why?
Oh, Hannah. I did not have her traumas, but I think her sense of justice and her desire to seek the truth and put down pretentiousness comes from me. I am known for not compromising when it comes to BS and have been a member of the Sceptics Society. I am also a died-in-the-wool feminist and have noted over a long life that life isn’t quite as fair for women as it is for men. So I guess it’s inevitable that some of that comes out in many of my characters. The females, anyway.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One theme is the difference between justice and the law. While the law of the land seeks to address injustice, it so often fails to do so. Take rape, where 92% of women do not report this serious assault to the police. This is after 20%+ of women and 6% of men experience it. Then because of all kinds of prejudice plus the adversarial nature of court proceedings of the 8% of cases reported, many drop out, so only 1% result in a conviction. It’s not only rape but any crime where injustice happens because of the necessary high burden of proof, clogged legal system, disparity between lawyers’ competence (poor vs rich). So many people will never see justice. Gloria makes all this clear to Hannah.
The other theme is the drag theatre. I didn’t see that as a theme because, as an actress, I worked with gay people all my life and saw nothing odd about that. But a beta reader said it was interesting to him how `these people’ were portrayed as simply ordinary everyday people – which, of course, they are. But to him, it was an important book because it didn’t in any way sensationalize that, and he felt people should read the books to get a better understanding of `them.’ Dear me, are we really in the 21st century? With all the shenanigans going on in America right now, I begin to wonder.
Can you give us a peek inside book 2? Where will the next installment take Hannah?
Book 2 has Hannah wondering if the detective life is for her. As she puts it, in all her cases her clients did okay but she was kidnapped, beaten up and failed in her major task, But when her first and eternally grateful client asks her to `just visit a friend of her daughter’s, Hannah bites the bullet and goes along with it. What she doesn’t expect is that this favor will bring her head to head with a clever and ruthless psychopath. She’s appallingly out of her depth as she tries to outmaneuver this rogue human being in a race to save her client’s life and her own. In his twisted mind, anyone who thwarts him must be destroyed, and Hannah is in his way. To defeat him, Hannah must think like him, but will that threaten her mind as well as her body?
Author Links: Facebook | Website
In Hannah Tree’s flotsam life only two things motivate her, injustice and the desire to destroy the person who ruined her life.
Troubled loner Hannah Tree’s drifter lifestyle changes forever when she meets the statuesque Gloria Starr.
Gloria, who sees something in Hannah that Hannah cannot, pulls her off the streets, gives her a job and puts a roof over her head. She also encourages her to turn her fierce pursuit of justice into a detective business. Hannah isn’t so sure, but since ramming justice down abusive people’s throats is something she’s always done she figures she might as well be paid for it.
But when, by a twist of fate, Hannah stumbles across the man who ruined her life, her burning need for revenge takes over. Heedless of the consequences Hannah pursues her obsession down dark and dangerous pathways, exposing appalling abuses at every turn, risking not only her own safety but that of everyone around her.
But those responsible do not tolerate meddlers.
THE FRIDAY NIGHT CLUB
The Friday Night Club emerges as an enthralling Australian crime thriller, inviting readers into the complex world of its protagonist, Hannah. This novel cleverly intertwines her gritty confrontation with a dark past and her unwavering dedication to forging a brighter future for others while delivering sharp retorts and resolute denials that keep the pages turning.
The narrative’s unique quality lies in its vivid, anime-esque portrayal of scenes and characters, conjuring a visual feast reminiscent of Japan’s renowned art style and storytelling pace. Whether intentional or a happy coincidence, this approach provides a dynamic backdrop for the unfolding drama. The novel boasts a tapestry of diverse and vibrant characters, including Gloria, an emblematic figure of the transgender community, Damian, a flamboyant drag queen, and Nick, the ostensible heartthrob. Each intersects with Hannah’s journey uniquely, enriching the narrative with their distinct presence. Hannah herself is a study in contrasts: a woman striving for emotional detachment yet continually drawn into the lives and troubles of those around her. Her battles against external injustices, sinister crimes, and internal demons offer a compelling exploration of the protagonist’s psyche, history, and evolving worldview.
The story unfolds briskly, presenting a series of rapid developments that keep readers on the edge of their seats. However, this occasionally limits the space for characters and readers to fully absorb each twist. While the narrative’s portrayal of institutional systems in Australia may offer a fresh perspective to those accustomed to American settings, it adds a layer of intrigue and cultural nuance. Moreover, the central romantic subplot evolves with a fervent intensity, offering a passionate, if sometimes unexpected, journey that captivates and thrills.
The Friday Night Club, by Deirdre Oliver, is an exceptional book that readers will be drawn into from the opening pages. Oliver delivers a captivating and emotionally resonant experience that holds the tension and suspense from start to finish. The novel’s narrative and memorable characters have firmly established it as a not-to-miss read.
Pages: 310 | ASIN : B0B8XM7Z31
A Murder in Ashwood
After the discovery of Edward Miller’s lifeless body in his residence, a prominent member of the Ashwood social circle, the once-thriving society is thrown into turmoil. Adding to the intrigue, Edward’s estranged wife, Alicia Miller, returns to the scene amid whispers, conjecture, and relentless media scrutiny fueled by their ongoing divorce proceedings. While the police diligently pursue their investigation, a sudden suicide raises suspicions, potentially sabotaging any hope of a successful resolution. In this volatile environment, it falls upon the intelligent and determined Sarah Payne to untangle the web of deception, seek justice, and uncover truths that will shatter her faith in both the concept itself and the people she believed she knew.
Robert Brighton’s A Murder in Ashwood is a meticulously crafted mystery notable for its well-crafted narrative. While it serves as a sequel, it functions seamlessly as a standalone novel, requiring no prior knowledge of the series. Brighton’s prose is lucid, focused, and, at times, vividly descriptive. The story eschews unnecessary filler, placing a heavy emphasis on natural and engaging dialogue. Characters behave convincingly and realistically, reflecting Brighton’s thorough research into the societal norms and behaviors of the chosen period. The result is a remarkable historical mystery that defies conventional expectations.
The heart of the mystery in this novel is less about identifying the perpetrator, as the identity becomes apparent early on. However, this revelation doesn’t diminish the tension but instead shifts the focus onto the journey rather than the destination. How did the murderer execute their plan? How many allies were involved? Can truth and justice prevail against an orchestrated web of corruption and oppressive authority? These are the mysteries that our protagonists must unravel, and their ultimate triumph remains uncertain. As they inch closer to the truth, they begin to question the very values that initially drove them to seek justice, leaving readers to ponder their fate with bated breath.
Pages: 534 | ASIN : B0C7H3NHLN
LITERARY TITAN 