Author: Marissa DeCuir

Born and bred in Louisiana, currently living in New Orleans, she has lived and developed a strong base for our company and authors in Chicago and Nashville. Her journalism work has appeared in USA Today, National Geographic and other major publications. She is now interviewed by media on best practices for book marketing.

Bestselling author investigates the life and lore of his ninth-great-grandfather and one of the world’s most famous outlaws: Captain William Kidd

Posted on January 9, 2025 | by Marissa DeCuir

DENVER, Colorado – In “Captain Kidd: A Tale of Treasure and Betrayal” (Diversion Books/Simon & Schuster, May 13, 2025) bestselling author Samuel Marquis delves into the legendary life of his own ninth-great-grandfather, Captain William Kidd (1654–1701), casting new light on one of history’s most infamous figures.

Captain Kidd has captivated imaginations for over 300 years and inspired many stories about pirates, but was he really a criminal? Just how many ships did he plunder, how many men did he force to walk the plank, and how many throats did he slit? Or is the truth more inconvenient, that he was a buccaneer’s worst nightmare, a revered pirate hunter turned fall guy for scheming politicians?

In “Captain Kidd,” Marquis reveals the real story. Kidd was an English-American privateer and leading New York husband and father, dubbed “trusty and well-beloved” by the King of England himself and described by historians as a “worthy, honest-hearted, steadfast, much-enduring sailor” who was the “victim of a deliberate travesty of justice.” With honors far more esteemed than the menacing Blackbeard or any other sea rover at the turn of the 17th century, how can Kidd be considered both gentleman and pirate, both hero and villain?

“Captain Kidd: A Tale of Treasure and Betrayal”

Samuel Marquis | May 13, 2025 | Diversion Books | Nonfiction / History

Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1635769685 | $34.99

About the Author

The ninth-great-grandson of legendary privateer Captain William Kidd, Samuel Marquis, M.S., P.G., is a professional hydrogeologist, expert witness, and bestselling, award-winning author of 12 American nonfiction-history, historical fiction, and suspense books, covering primarily the period from colonial America through WWII. His American history and historical fiction books have been #1 Denver Post and Amazon bestsellers and received multiple national book awards in both fiction and non-fiction categories (Kirkus Reviews and Foreword Reviews Book of the Year, American Book Fest and USA Best Book, Readers’ Favorite, Colorado Book Awards). His historical titles have also garnered glowing reviews from #1 bestseller James Patterson, maritime historians, U.S. military veterans, Kirkus Reviews, and Foreword Reviews (5 Stars). His pirate book “Blackbeard: The Birth of America” has been an Amazon #1 Bestseller in Colonial Period History of the U.S. Marquis lives with his wife in Louisville, Colorado, where they raised their three children. Find out more about him at samuelmarquisbooks.com.

Follow Samuel Marquis on social media:

Facebook: @samuelmarquisbooks | Twitter (X): @Sammarquisbooks

Instagram: @sammarquisbooks

Early Praise for

“Captain Kidd: A True Story of Treasure and Betrayal”

“A swashbuckling account of privateers, pirates, and pirate brokers on the Caribbean high seas at the dawn of the 18th century. With Captain Kidd, Samuel Marquis deftly separates the man from the myth in a riveting narrative that includes a compelling cast of characters, cannon fire, sword fights, mutiny, and treasure—all with the fate of empires hanging in the balance. A rollicking tale that proves that true stories are the best ones.”

—Buddy Levy, bestselling author of Realm of Ice & Sky and Empire of Ice and Stone

“Marquis paints the life of the inimitable Captain Kidd in bold, rich colors. A dashing, absorbing tale.”

—Stephan Talty, bestselling author of Empire of Blue Water

In an interview, Samuel Marquis can discuss:

Balancing Family Descendancy with Truth – Discovering his ancestral connection to Captain William Kidd began with childhood stories but was solidified through modern genetic-genealogical research, which shaped his approach to researching and writing this book.
The Sensational Legend That Still Resonates Today – The enduring fascination with Captain Kidd stems from his complicated life story, his close connection to many important historical figures, his rigged London show trial, and the myth of his buried treasure — a mix of fact and folklore.
The American Hero Behind the Pirate Myth – Captain Kidd was far more than a mere “pirate” — he was a colonial American hero with a complex legacy, including wartime bravery and civic leadership. The myth of Kidd as a villain was a political construct by the English Crown, masking his true role as a trusted privateer and scapegoat for England’s failure to capture the English pirate Henry Every and other “real” seafaring outlaws. This book challenges the pirate caricature to reveal Kidd as a democratic sea captain, devoted family man, and misunderstood hero of early America.
Real Estate, Rectors, and Revolution – Captain Kidd’s impact on New York includes his role in building Trinity Church and his influence as a prominent citizen shaping the early maritime city.
A Sea Commander Ahead of His Time – Captain Kidd’s egalitarian practices aboard his gunships reflected values of inclusivity and democracy, making him progressive in an era of rigid social divides.
The Thrill of the Chase – One of Captain Kidd’s most exhilarating moments was his dramatic battle off India’s Malabar coast against the Portuguese, showcasing his strategic brilliance and tenacity.
A Love Story Lost to History – Captain Kidd’s relationship with his wife Sarah was one of devotion and resilience, shaping his life and legacy in ways rarely acknowledged.

An Interview with Samuel Marquis

How and when did you first discover you were related to the legendary Captain William Kidd?

My parents and relatives told me at an early age that I was the ninth-great-grandson of Captain Kidd based upon our Marquis family tree on my father’s side. However, the stories I heard represented the traditional British Crown and East India Company narrative that he was a New York gentleman who went off the rails and “turned arch-pirate” — which is complete balderdash.

What was it like reexamining an ancestor with such a controversial past? How did your familial connection shape how you researched and approached this book?

As a professional scientist and hydrogeologic expert witness in addition to being an American history author, my approach was to research and write the book as a scholarly historian and not as a family descendant. At the same time, it was important to me to present a sympathetic portrayal of Kidd since he has been badly mischaracterized and maligned as a vicious cutthroat and arch-pirate over the centuries due to the original anti-piracy propaganda campaign in the late 1690s by the English Crown and East India Company.

Why do you think Captain Kidd’s legacy stays with us more than other impactful people from his time? Why do you think his tale continues to capture the imagination of so many people?

Over the centuries, Captain Kidd has come to define the “pirate” brand even though he was never actually a pirate. He remains such a pivotal figure in the history of piracy because of his unique and complicated life story and career trajectory; his key role in the creation of buried-pirate-treasure mythology; his ridiculously unfair trial in which the English Crown illegally stacked the deck to win its case against him; and his Forrest-Gump-like connection to a wide variety of important historical events and people from 1689-1701.

Did Captain Kidd really bury treasure here in the United States – and be honest, have you ever looked for it?

Most, if not all, of this “treasure” was tracked down and seized by Kidd’s treacherous business partner and sponsor of his Indian Ocean voyage, Lord Bellomont, the royal governor of New York, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, who arrested and imprisoned him. Thus, Captain Kidd did not “bury” treasure in the way that we have come to know from Treasure Island and Pirates of the Caribbean.

What do you hope people will take away from this book?

I want my readers to see Captain Kidd as he truly was, as a gray-shaded colonial American hero, and not as the villainous, heartless, dastardly, and fiendish arch-pirate, as falsely created by the English Crown and East India Company, who made him out to be a monster to suit their own political agenda. Perhaps my dedication at the beginning of the book sums up the Captain Kidd legacy best:

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“Hit-and-run” drama based on observing officer’s grief

Posted on January 9, 2025 | by Marissa DeCuir

Debut author pens story of friendship and healing between officer and witness

LOS ANGELES, CA – Debut author Karen Uhlmann watched a police officer stake out an intersection in her neighborhood four-to-five times a week. Ever since the devastating loss of a young child in a hit-and-run, the officer taped the vehicles driving by, hoping to find the suspect. From her observations of his grief, Uhlmann crafted the basis of her debut novel “Intersections” (She Writes Press, May 6, 2025), the story of an officer and a witness mourning together, but with one small secret: the killer is the witness’s daughter.

After working as a reporter in the Chicago area, award-winning writer Karen Uhlmann imagines the turmoil and choices of both the criminal’s mother and the police officer investigating the crime, diving into the psychology of grief, justice, and protection shared between two strangers bonded by tragedy.

About the book: When suspended police officer Ed Kelly witnesses a fatal hit-and-run, he begins to regularly stake out the intersection hoping to find the car responsible. Charlotte Oakes, a style guru, also witnesses the event that killed a young child, and begins to visit the site of the hit-and-run. While both grapple with the grief of losing an innocent life, Charlotte is hiding a secret from Ed – she believes her daughter is involved in the crime. And as Ed gets closer to the truth, Charlotte must choose between shielding her daughter, or giving her up. Perfect for fans of Emma Straub’s All Adults Here and Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere.

Intersections

Karen Uhlmann | May 6, 2025 | Spark Press | Women’s Fiction

Paperback | 9781647428891 | $17.99

Ebook | 9781647428907 | $12.99

Karen Uhlmann received her MFA in fiction from Bennington in 2010 and has published short stories and book reviews in Southern Indiana Review, Story, Whitefish Review, and The Common among others. She won the 2016 Rick Bass/Montana Fiction Award, and the 2012 Northern Colorado Writers Award judged by Antonya Nelson. She was recently shortlisted for the 2024 Lascaux Fiction prize and longlisted for a collection of short stories by Santa Fe Writers Project. She lives in Los Angeles but spent most of her life in Chicago. Learn more about her at her website.

Follow Karen Uhlmann on social media:

Instagram: @karenuhlmann

In an interview, Karen Uhlmann can discuss:

How witnessing a police officer filming cars at an intersection in her neighborhood sparked the idea for the novel
How grief and loss can unite two unlikely people in healing and friendship despite their differences
How a mother copes with her daughter’s challenging mistakes and addiction
How Karen begins her career as an author in her 50s and using themes of midlife throughout her book
Her previous works, including her short stories and the recognition they have received

An Interview with Karen Uhlmann

1. How did witnessing the police officer filming at the intersection inspire your book?

The police officer was on the scene when the girl died, and he and another officer broke down crying. The accident was near my home, and I frequently saw the officer videotaping. He ticketed drivers who blew through the stop and put a sticker with a picture of the girl on the ticket. There was a mystery person who left flowers for four years (I actually did not know this when I was writing). The driver was actually caught right away and jailed, but the grief over her death was palpable. I started the book years later, as his image had stayed with me.

2. How can the unexpected “intersections” we make in life help us when we are dealing with grief and trauma?

One never knows where one will find comfort and understanding. It’s rare to find another who has the ability and compassion to see what another person is going through outside of a trauma or grief group. But occasionally, this type of person unexpectedly enters one’s life and it’s a gift.

3. What are some of the challenges people face after witnessing a traumatic event? How are these represented in “Intersections”?

Fear would be the biggest challenge. Ed has PTSD, and Charlotte constantly fears for her daughter. It can be debilitating. Ed has panic attacks.

4. There’s a prominent mother/daughter relationship in the story with the daughter struggling with addiction as well as being involved in the hit-and-run. Could you share how you wrote the complexity of this relationship?

This is a touchy subject. I don’t have a daughter, but I do have a neurodiverse family member who has faced mental health challenges and addiction. There is no question, this helped me write about Libby and Charlotte.

5. What is next in your writing career?

I have started to write a fictionalized account of my colorful family who were originally Jewish pioneers. That said, I am not deep into the project yet.

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Breaking Barriers and Building Wellness: New Book for Black Professionals Serves as Guide to Thriving in Corporate America

Posted on January 9, 2025 | by Marissa DeCuir

In “Company Men: A Wellness Guide for Black Men in Corporate America” (Wordeee, Feb. 12, 2025), Justin Grant draws on his two-decade career in journalism and corporate communications to deliver a groundbreaking resource tailored to the unique challenges faced by Black men in corporate spaces.

Corporate America brings with it many advantages that make it an attractive career path. Six-figure salaries, generous health benefits, and a path to retirement, if you’re fortunate enough to go the distance. But building a lasting and rewarding career in corporate America is difficult no matter what your racial or gender background happens to be. From navigating office politics to dealing with difficult bosses and co-workers, while managing the anxiety-inducing realities of layoffs and reorgs—all while working to secure your financial future —corporate life is not for the faint of heart.

While there are over 20 million books sold yearly on how to manage corporate life, “Company Men” is one of the few to speak directly to Black professional men in addressing the unique challenges they face in maintaining their well-being across various spectrums (mental, physical, social, and financial). “Company Men” offers the help and tools Black men need to extract the benefits of working in corporate America while minimizing the physical and psychological effects of the challenges that come from being a person of color in these spaces.

“Justin has delivered a must-read for every Black man who works in corporate America. Period.” – Ian Dunlap, founder of Red Panda Academy

“Company Men: A Wellness Guide for Black Men in Corporate America”

Justin Grant | Feb. 12, 2025 | Wordeee | Business Nonfiction

Hardcover | ISBN: 978-1-959811-79-4 | $32

Ebook | $14.95

Justin Grant is a communications expert and journalist with an extensive track record of delivering compelling storytelling to diverse audiences through a variety of platforms, including news media, marketing, and public relations. Over the last 20 years, Grant has honed these skills as a news reporter for Thomson Reuters and ABC News and as a corporate communications professional for leading U.S. financial services firms, including Fidelity Investments, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan Chase. He’s also provided commentary for National Public Radio and has published articles in numerous outlets, including Huffington Post. As an African American, Grant has contributed key perspectives to financial services firms on how to leverage authentic messaging and use the power of Black media to attract, engage, and convert Black consumers. He is currently the Executive Director of JPMorgan Chase Advancing Black Pathways, where he devises strategies to strengthen the economic foundations of Black communities around the world. He serves as a mentor to numerous students and young professionals of varying backgrounds, both in the United States and Brazil, and sits on the Board of Trustees at Long Island University, where he has taught journalism. Grant lives in the suburbs of New York with his wife and three children. Find out more about him at CompanyMen.org.

Follow Justin on LinkedIn: @jpaulgrant

“Through Company Men, Justin offers a valuable roadmap for Black men to maximize their leadership, and at the same time, embrace the trials and triumphs of corporate life. Every Black male professional – whether newly minted or seasoned veteran – should read this book and apply its lessons for longevity and success.” — Derek Dingle, Chief Content Officer at Black Enterprise

“Getting a foot in the door with the world’s leading corporations is just half the battle for Black talent. Building a lasting, rewarding, and enjoyable career is the ultimate goal. Through Company Men, Justin provides Black men with the blueprint.” — Frank Holland, Reporter, CNBC

In an interview, Justin Grant can discuss:

A Call to Action for Leaders – Organizations must actively foster environments that reduce undue stress and promote health equity, particularly for underrepresented groups.
The Hidden Costs of Code Switching – Code switching — shifting behaviors, speech, and attitudes to match dominant cultural norms — is a survival tool for many Black professionals.
Avoiding the “Angry Black Man” Stereotype – For Black men, especially in corporate spaces, there’s a heightened pressure to manage emotions and reactions to avoid being labeled as the “Angry Black Man.”
The Weathering Effect – This refers to the cumulative toll of stressors faced by people of color, eroding health over time. Examples include corporate pressures, systemic racism, and high-stakes career environments that often go unnoticed until they manifest as serious health conditions.
Knowing Your Worth and Demanding It – Black men often earn less than their white counterparts due to systemic racism and cultural expectations that discourage negotiation.
The Art of Picking Your Battles – One of the keys to success in corporate America is knowing what hills are worth dying on. Not every conflict or challenge is worth escalating — sometimes, stepping back is the smartest move.
Survival of the Most Adaptable – Commit time and resources to self-improvement and mastering new skills. Stay curious and open to acquiring new knowledge. Define your value by your contributions, not your job title.
Building a Career Roadmap – Justin encourages professionals to seek happiness and purpose at work, reminding them that they have the power to shape their futures.
The Power of Professional Networks – Seek experienced professionals who can provide advice, share wisdom, and guide career decisions.
Practical Advice for Thriving Amid Challenges – Prioritize rest as a foundation for physical and mental health, eat better, seek a career that aligns with personal values, seek proactive healthcare tailored to individual needs, address emotional and psychological challenges with professional support, build meaningful, supportive relationships and maintain strong social connections.

An Interview with Justin Grant

What are the most common barriers Black men face when trying to advance in corporate environments, and how can they overcome these challenges?

In doing research for my book, I’ve learned that the higher Black men climb up the socioeconomic ladder, the greater the likelihood of them developing anxiety and depression. In addition, Black men have the second-lowest life expectancy of any group in the United States and achieving a higher socioeconomic and professional status is not providing the protective shield around Black men’s lives that one would assume it would for higher earners, such as those who work in corporate America.

How can Black men effectively build and leverage professional networks in industries where they may be underrepresented?

Challenge yourself to make three to five friends in the office. Find your tribe within the company. These are the people who you vibe with on an intellectual and social level, no matter what background they may happen to be from.

What role does mentorship play in the success of Black men in corporate settings, and how can one find a mentor in environments where diversity may be lacking?

Mentorship is a big part of how we grow as human beings. We all need someone to model ourselves after as we find our way in life, both personally and professionally. On a more basic level, we also need folks around us who are experienced in successfully navigating the challenges that we’re going to face in our work.

How should Black men navigate micro-aggressions and implicit biases in the workplace without jeopardizing their careers or mental health?

One of the worst things you can do in this scenario is remain silent and quietly stew in anger. In moments like these, you’ve got to speak up — with tact. In some of these instances, the offender may not even be aware that they’ve done anything wrong. Use these moments as teachable moments. But don’t ever stay silent and try to choke away any anger you may feel over a microaggression. Doing so will be corrosive to your psyche over time.

Paralyzed soldier enhanced with experimental tech in high-stakes, globetrotting thriller

Posted on January 9, 2025 | by Marissa DeCuir

For fans of The Six Million Dollar Man, fast-paced action converges with real-world events

Morgan Hill, CA – Technology: some see it as a trap, others as an opportunity. But it’s only a matter of time until it’s used for what was once thought impossible: the enhancement of humans. In his heart pounding thriller “Artificial Agent” (Big Dee Books, January 21, 2025), inspired by “The Six Million Dollar Man”, J.W. Jarvis imagines a thrilling next chapter in which a highly decorated Navy SEAL is given a second chance to serve his country when advanced tech restores his ability to walk and grants him unique powers. But while technology gives him a new life, it may also prove to be the world’s undoing.

Loyalty runs through Michael Cooling’s veins. Abandoned by his father and devoted to his mother, the highly decorated Navy SEAL gladly leads a mission to extract two Ukrainian generals held by Russia. But after falling into the hands of a brutal Russian officer and nearly killed, the heroic patriot ends up comatose in a hospital bed…and unknowingly paralyzed.

Determined to escape a wheelchair-bound existence, the wounded warrior undergoes surgery to integrate an untested hi-tech endoskeleton into his ravaged human flesh. And as he trains tirelessly to adapt to his new synthetic body, he develops an unprecedented strength and speed he hopes will help him crush those who would see the USA fall. But when the world is brought to the brink of destruction, will his newfound powers be enough?

Fans of James Bond and James Patterson won’t be able to put down this fast-paced thriller, which ties our current world of AI and technology, envisioning the high-tech future that may be closer than we realize.

“Artificial Agent”

J.W. Jarvis | January 2025 | Big Dee Books | Technothriller

Hardcover | 979-8-9887157-2-6 | $23.99

Paperback | 979-8-9887157-7-1 | $15.99

J.W. Jarvis: J.W. Jarvis lives in sunny California but is originally from the suburbs of the Windy City. When he’s not thinking of ways to create inspiring characters and nonstop action stories, you can find him reading, golfing, traveling, or just sipping a hot vanilla latte. Visit J.W. Jarvis at www.authorjwjarvis.com.

Follow J.W. Jarvis on social media:

Facebook: authorjwjarvis | Twitter: @authorjwjarvis | Instagram: @authorjwjarvis

In an interview, J.W. Jarvis can discuss:

How his love of “The Six Million Dollar Man” inspired him to write “Artificial Agent”
How he incorporated current technological advances such as AI, sustainable fuel sources, and materials science into his thriller
Why bionic devices are the present, but AIonicTM devices are the future
Why he chose to write in present tense and use shorter chapters, and how it can give the perfect tone for action-packed thrillers
Using real world events, such as the Ukrainian and Russian war, to show the frightening reality of the power-hungry world we are living in
How technologically superior private or public organizations will advance us faster than governmental organizations
Why the modern-day world needs technologically advanced secret agents
His previous YA series and how it compares to “Artificial Agent”

An Interview with J.W. Jarvis

1. You’re a longtime fan of the show “The Six Million Dollar Man.” How did this show with similar topics inspire “Artificial Agent”, but in a less campy representation.

The bionic man was ahead of its time when it came out. Sure, there were superhero movies with fantasy powers, but nothing with such a believable theme that real technology could aid in making humans more powerful. Fast forward to 50 years of technological advancements and we are in an era again where technology is even better suited for biological integration. Machines are only as good as their operators. I wanted to integrate the two together into a secret agent that evil will never see coming, as this hero doesn’t wear a shiny, bright uniform.

2. How do you combine current events with fictional thrills? For example, showcasing the frightening reality of how countries can use technology, specifically in the Ukrainian / Russian war.

Warfare is inevitable as long as there are persons in high positions with big egos and power-trips. Technology allows countries to fight wars with minimal risk to its military personnel, but how do we reduce civilian casualties? There is a fine line between fiction and non-fiction. My fiction thriller introduces clandestine operatives with superior technology to hopefully neutralize real-life threats before there are human and property losses. The question is how reliable can technology be in unconventional warfare, especially when it’s experimental?

3. What are some ways you incorporate technological advances, such as AI, into your thriller?

Many people that don’t understand AI, see it as a threat. In the wrong applications, it can be, but it also can be one of the world’s greatest assets. People spend a lot of time finding information or answers to their questions, whether it be for research or problem-solving. By using AI, militaries can advance technology faster and solve problems quicker which in turn improves response times and minimizes the cycles of conflict. But it’s not just AI. Materials science has made leaps and bounds in the last few decades, examples include composite materials, solid-state batteries and nanoparticles. My thriller incorporates advanced materials with artificial intelligence to create a formidable super-agent for the ages.

4. What are the unique habits and writing styles you incorporate into your work?

My favorite time to write is in the early morning when my mind is fresh and uncluttered from the day’s challenges. Coffee is preferred, but I also enjoy a good cup of green tea. I have a dedicated office, but for some reason a crackling fireplace helps me think. I have a laptop next to my monitors that is typically running a streaming fireplace from Netflix to get me that cozy effect. Another habit is taking long walks while I visualize in my head how the rest of my chapter will be authored or to just come up with a new plot line.

5. Tell us how your newest book is different from your former YA books, and what is next for you as an author!

Artificial Agent is my first entry into the thriller genre, which I have always wanted to write. It’s my first preference in books I read too. This book is for my adult fans that enjoy non-stop action, but also can handle the sex and violence that comes with characters doing anything to protect our national security. Currently writing The Phantom Healer, the final book in my YA First Responder trilogy, then I plan to send my AIonic agent on another dangerous but necessary mission.

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Novelist reveals the hidden true story of the woman who made Vincent van Gogh the artistic giant he is today

Posted on December 18, 2024 | by Marissa DeCuir

St. Louis, MO–In the tradition of “The Paris Bookseller” and “Her Hidden Genius,” Joan Fernandez’s novel “Saving Vincent” (She Writes Press, April 15, 2025) is inspired by the true story of a woman overshadowed in history by the giant talent she saved: Vincent van Gogh.

How did a failed belligerent Dutch painter become one of the greatest artists of our time?

In 1891, timid Jo van Gogh Bonger lives safely in the background of her art dealer husband Theo’s passion for selling the work of unknown artists, especially his ill-fated dead brother, Vincent. When Theo dies unexpectedly, Jo’s brief happiness is shattered. Her inheritance—hundreds of unsold paintings by Vincent—is worthless. Pressured to move to her parents’ home, Jo defies tradition, instead choosing to open a boarding house, raise her infant son alone, and promote Vincent’s art herself. Her ingenuity and persistence draw the powerful opposition of a Parisian art dealer who vows to prevent her success, and so sink Vincent into obscurity. How will Jo overcome the forces working against her, and save herself along with Vincent?

“Saving Vincent: A Novel of Jo van Gogh”

Joan Fernandez | April 15, 2025 | She Writes Press | Historical Fiction

Paperback | ISBN: 978-1-64742-870-9 | $17.99

Ebook | ISBN: 978-1-64742-871-6 | $9.95

Praise for the book…

“An intriguing art- and history-filled tribute to an oft-overlooked dynamic woman.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“‘Saving Vincent’ is a luminous, captivating novel about a woman who was truly ahead of her time.”

—Camille Pagán, bestselling author of “Good for You”

“You’ve probably never heard of Jo van Gogh, but were it not for her, none of us would have ever known there was a Vincent van Gogh. In this skillfully researched and propulsive story, Joan Fernandez shares the untold history of a true unsung heroine who saved her brother-in-law’s artwork and legacy. You will root for Jo van Gogh from beginning to end.”

—Renée Rosen, USA Today bestselling author of “Let’s Call Her Barbie”

“Fernandez brings Jo’s untold story to life with brilliant historical acuity. . . [her] portrayal of Jo as a strong, smart, and indomitable woman is both inspiring and empowering. . . Lovers of Van Gogh’s work will find this story intense, vibrant, and deeply moving.”

—Publishers Weekly, BookLife

“‘Saving Vincent’ is a captivating tale that weaves together themes of courage, ingenuity, and an unwavering belief in the beauty of art… Fernandez not only uncovers Jo’s significance but also enlightens us about the crucial role she played, weaving a rich tapestry of storytelling that underscores the profound importance of art in our lives.”

—Midwest Book Review

“Fernandez does an excellent job in her portrayal of Jo as a strong, determined woman ahead of her time in the male-dominated art world…[Saving Vincent] forces readers to become deeply invested in Jo as a woman, creating an unforgettable portrait of resilience and passion. Very highly recommended.”

–Readers’ Favorite

About the author…

Joan Fernandez is a novelist who brings to light courageous women’s brilliant deeds in history. She is a former senior marketing executive and general partner of the financial powerhouse Edward Jones. In 2018, she retired from a 30+ year career to be a full-time writer. Since leaving the corporate world, she’s become a member of the Historical Novel Society, the Author’s Guild, and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA). In April 2020, she founded a Historical Fiction affinity group within WFWA that grew from a handful of people to nearly two hundred authors. Her short story, “A Parisian Daughter,” was published in the American Writing Award-winning anthology, “Feisty Deeds: Historical Fictions of Daring Women.” Joan’s debut novel, “Saving Vincent” (She Writes Press), was also recognized by the American Writing Awards, winning their 2024 art award.

Joan is a sought-after public speaker, recently presenting “Top 10 Secrets for Forming a Vibrant, Lasting Author Community” at the Historical Novel Society UK Conference in May 2024. She also presented “How to Portray the Past Truthfully without Harm” at the Tenth Anniversary Conference for WFWA in September 2023.

Additional memberships include the Missouri Writers Guild, Unite Against Book Bans, Right to Read Coalition and PEN America.

Joan calls both St. Louis, Missouri and Sedona, Arizona, home, where she enjoys foodie meals with her Cuban husband and antics with grandkids. Learn more about her life and work at: www.joanfernandezauthor.com

Follow Joan Fernandez on social media:

Facebook: @joanferndzauthor | Instagram: @joanfernandezauthor

In an interview, Joan Fernandez can discuss:

How she discovered Jo van Gogh and what her story means to her
How she approached blending fact and fiction in “Saving Vincent”
The extensive research process that went into writing the book
Why this story of one woman’s strength and resilience at the turn of the 20th century still matters today

An Interview with Joan Fernandez

1. Why did you want to write about Jo van Gogh, and how did you discover her story?

I discovered Jo in 2016 when, on a girlfriend trip to Amsterdam, we visited the Van Gogh Museum. I spied Jo’s black-and-white photo on a small display about the Van Gogh family. When I read an accompanying note about her being the one to sell Vincent’s paintings, I remember staring into her eyes and thinking, “If not for you, none of this would be here.” It felt wrong that she’d been lost behind Vincent’s giant shadow. I felt she should be acknowledged.

2. What was the writing process like for this book? How long did it take to write?

Truthfully, I wrote two manuscripts! In the first one I reimagined Jo’s life, filling in the gaps I couldn’t find with research. My manuscript was completely done and ready to begin pitching to agents when a new biography was released about Jo by the Van Gogh Museum. I’d just spent two years learning writing craft, hiring book coaches and editors, and now had to decide whether to go ahead to publish this first version or to toss it and start over. I chose to begin again. When my book is published, it will be seven years.

3. What is the most surprising thing you learned from this story?

Van Gogh is beloved worldwide, so we all know that Jo was ultimately successful. Yet, I am still awestruck by her conviction that Vincent’s artwork was worthy of greatness when so many told her she was wrong. Her conviction gave her the resilience to reach her true potential, which in turn drove the paintings’ value from worthless to priceless.

4. Tell us about Georges Raulf. Is he a real historical figure? How did you write his character and why?

In real life Jo did not have a singular enemy, but rather lots of pushback from a number of forces. It was fun to create Georges Raulf as a composite of this headwind and also reflect the time’s political crosswinds and shaky, gradual acceptance of modern art. He reflects a patriarchal worldview, offended by Jo’s meddling in a man’s art-dealing world, but I also fleshed him out so that he’s not simply a caricature but has a human story behind his awfulness.

5. What are the ethics of writing about historical figures? Can you write about the past without doing harm?

Start with research, events and people in your subject’s life, and read your character’s diaries or journals, if possible. I read the 100-letter correspondence between Jo and her husband Theo, and 902 letters from and to Vincent. I believe you should write without the intent to harm, but rather to understand. If writing about heinous and violent historical events, avoid egregious details and show at least a few character’s faces, reactions and thoughts that they’re repulsed. Even this small signal of empathy goes a long way toward ensuring you don’t injure today’s reader.

Vengeance stalks Charles Darwin’s family in this ingeniously plotted story of deception and murder

Posted on December 6, 2024 | by Marissa DeCuir

A Victorian tale of biblical, eye-for-an-eye revenge

SPRINGFIELD, VA – In “Fatally Inferior” (Level Best Books, December 10, 2024), award-winning author Lyn Squire delivers another gripping, period mystery. When a member of Charles Darwin’s household goes missing and a former maid dies in childbirth (or so it seems), reluctant detective Dunston Burnett is thrust into a twisted web of deception, revenge, and murder.

Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, Dunston, a mild-mannered retired bookkeeper, must confront enemies with motives as complex as the theories of evolution themselves. The investigation takes him from the halls of Down House, Darwin’s home in Kent, to the shadowy streets of London, where every clue brings him closer to a chilling truth.

Squire masterfully blends fact with fiction, weaving a narrative rich in period detail while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Fans of intricate plots, atmospheric settings, and richly developed characters will be captivated by this second Dunston Burnett mystery. With its tantalizing blend of real nineteenth-century figures and a devilish mystery, “Fatally Inferior” is a must-read for lovers of historical whodunits.

“Fatally Inferior”

Lyn Squire | December 10, 2024 | Level Best Books | Period Mystery

Paperback | 978-1-68512-783-1 | $16.95

Ebook | 978-1-68512-784-8 | $5.99

“A layered and fast-paced mystery that also takes time to explore the importance of Darwin’s work.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“Dunston Burnett is back for a second time, now pulled into an investigation of a missing person in the household of Charles Darwin. The intrigue becomes as thick as pea soup or English fog and Burnett desperately tries to track down a merciless killer bent upon revenge. ‘Fatally Inferior will leave you spent and exhausted and is not to be missed. Read the book.’”

– Matt Cost, award winning author of sixteen histories and mysteries, including the Mainely Mysteries, the Clay Wolfe Trap Mysteries, and the Brooklyn 8 Ballo Mysteries.

“If you’re in the market for a good, old-fashioned mystery and you enjoy traveling to different places and different times, you won’t do better than Lyn Squire’s latest, Fatally Inferior. Squire has gifted us with a fast-paced, historical crime novel set in England smack in the middle of the Victorian Age. While sprinkling in actual historical figures like Charles Darwin and the controversy born of his seminal book, Origin of the Species, Squire draws us into a mystery filled with enough twists and turns that keeps us turning the pages.”

-Charles Salzberg, 3-time Shamus Award nominee and author of Second Story Man and Man on the Run

‘Lyn Squire continues his highly original Dunston Burnett mystery series with a tale worthy of Willkie Collins himself. Burnett investigates the strange disappearance of Charles Darwin’s daughter-in- law. There are some terrific twists and turns as the compelling plot unfolds. Beautifully written and populated with some great characters, Fatally Inferior is a wonderful read!’

-Mark Ellis, author of the acclaimed Frank Merlin London wartime detective series.

Immortalised to Death (Book 1)

Ebook: 978-1-68512-359-8 $5.99 | Paperback: 978-1-68512-358-1 $16.95

Death strikes England’s foremost novelist Charles Dickens, his latest tale only half told. Was he murdered because someone feared a ruinous revelation? Or was it revenge for some past misdeed? Set in the Kent countryside and London slums of 1870, Lyn Squire’s “Immortalised to Death” reveals the ending to Charles Dickens’s unfinished “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”, while diving deep into Dickens’ evolving and ultimately tragic double life.

Debut author Lyn Squire kicks off his electrifying Dunston Burnett Trilogy with legendary Victorian novelist Charles Dickens dead at his desk, pen still in hand. The mystery unravels as Dickens’ nephew and unlikely detective Dunston Burnett, tries to find the solution of his uncles’ unfinished novel. Convinced that the identity of Dickens’ murderer lies in the book’s missing conclusion, Dunston becomes obsessed with investigating those closest to Dickens. A stunning revelation crowns this tale about the mysterious death of England’s foremost novelist, and the long-held secret hidden in his half-finished manuscript.

The deft plotting will remind readers of Agatha Christie and the evocative prose will have them questioning which parts of the book are fiction and nonfiction. Squire seamlessly reimagines Dickens’ untimely death and final unfinished story while tying it neatly into a thrilling whodunnit. Is Dunston Burnett, a diffident, middle-aged, retired bookkeeper, able to crack the case of his uncle’s murder, or does he only find buried secrets in his brilliant continuation to Dickens’ novel.

LYN SQUIRE was born in Cardiff, South Wales. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Wales, his master’s at the London School of Economics and his doctorate at Cambridge University. Lyn is now an American citizen living in Virginia. During a twenty-five year career at the World Bank, Lyn published over thirty articles and several books within his area of expertise. Lyn also served as editor of the Middle East Development Journal for over a decade, and was the founding president of the Global Development Network, an organization dedicated to supporting promising scholars from the developing world.

Lyn has always been an avid reader of whodunits and has reviewed scores of mysteries for the City Book Review (Sacramento, CA), but it was the thrill of solving Charles Dickens’s unfinished ‘Mystery of Edwin Drood’ that convinced him to put aside his development pen and turn to fiction. Finding a solution to the mystery has attracted massive interest since the author’s death in 1870. A 1998 bibliography lists over 2,000 entries, with continuations ranging from the obvious (a Sherlock Holmes pastiche) to the absurd (The Mysterious Mystery of Rude Dedwin). Lyn’s version of what happened to Edwin is revealed in his first novel, Immortalised to Death. The adventures of his protagonist, Dunston Burnett, a non-conventional amateur detective, continue in Fatally Inferior and The Séance of Murder, the second and third stories in The Dunston Burnett Trilogy. Find more about Lyn on his website.

Praise for Lyn Squire and “Immortalised to Death”

“The novel is a delightful piece of reimagined history set against a backdrop of locations and characters that would make Dickens proud.”

– Kirkus reviews

“The writing style imitates Dickens’s, with frequent descriptive embellishments, exuberant wordplay, and rhythmic, alliterative phrasing…”

– Foreword reviews

“‘Immortalised to Death’s’ ingenious solution to fiction’s most celebrated unfinished mystery holds the key to the secret life, and murder, of legendary author, Charles Dickens himself. This novel’s cleverly wrought combination of fact and fiction will grip fans of historical mysteries from the opening death scene to the last astounding revelation.”

– Herta Feely, award-winning author of “Saving Phoebe Murrow” and founder of Chrysalis Editorial

In an interview, Lyn Squire can discuss:

The importance of historical accuracy when referencing real people, and the process Squire undertook to ensure the accuracy of his books
His decision to focus book two around Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution
His upbringing in South Wales and how his childhood in the UK influenced his writing
How book one in the series was inspired by a story contest of everyday readers and writers trying to finish / “solve” Dickens’ last mystery story “Mystery of Edwin Drood”
The widespread fascination with Dickens’ death and last novel, and how Squire worked to uphold Dickens’ legacy with his book

An Interview with Lyn Squire

How did the thrill of reimagining the ending of “Mystery of Edwin Drood” lead you to the main idea for “Immortalised to Death”?

It was a process. Once the excitement of my Eureka moment had passed, my first thought was to write up my solution as non-fiction and be done with it. But then, the more involved I became, the more I saw that my ending to Dickens’s mystery, the only one he ever wrote, suggested an overarching story-line encompassing the author’s liaison with Ellen Ternan and the much-debated question about a possible offspring from that illicit union.

To what extent is historical accuracy important to you and your writing process? What did the research look like for “Immortalized to Death”?

Historical accuracy is not a must for me. If one is writing fiction, then surely it is acceptable to adapt incidents and descriptions to fit a story’s needs. That said, I do try to stay close to the facts. For instance, I visited Gadshill Place, Dickens’s home in Kent, to make sure that the book’s description of his home was as faithful to the original as possible. For me, though, the goal is to provide readers with a convincing impression of place and time, and not overwhelm them with detail.

How did you decide to focus book two around Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution?

I built the book around two aspects of Charles Darwin’s life. On The Origin of Species created a furor in England, pitting religious traditionalists against an emerging breed of empirical scientists. Darwin was bombarded with scathing reviews in academic journals, blistering editorials in the leading newspapers and crude cartoons in the cheaper broadsheets. It is this avalanche of disgust and hatred that prompted my inclusion of threats against his work and his family in Fatally Inferior. The other aspect was his relationship with his wife, Emma. They were first cousins. In the nineteenth century, the offspring of marriages between such close relatives were thought to suffer from loss of vigour and even infertility. This led to the idea of a couple desperate for a grandchild but cruelly robbed by tragedy of any hope of a happy old age spent in the joyful company of their children’s children.

What did the research look like for book two compared to book one?

Much the same actually. I followed a similar program: reviewing online material about Victorian England for background; reading Darwin’s major works, including his autobiography, and several biographies; and visiting Down House in Kent where he wrote ‘On the Origin of Species.

What’s next for you as a writer?

I’m two thirds of the way through ‘The Dunston Burnett Trilogy’. The third book — ‘The Seance of Murder- — is nearing completion and will be published in late 2025 or early 2026. It is a story of greed set against the spiritualist movement that swept through England and America in the late 19th century.

Perfect for fans of “Saltburn” and “A Study in Drowning”

Posted on December 5, 2024 | by Marissa DeCuir

“A folktale you’d find in the library of a gloomy seaside manor—haunting, ethereal, and lace-delicate.” –Hannah Whitten, NYT bestselling author

Adelaide, South Australia– Renowned YA author of “flower-threaded horror”, Lyndall Clipstone returns in a moody, monstrously Gothic romantic horror. “Tenderly, I Am Devoured” (Henry Holt/Macmillan, July 1, 2025) follows a young woman who must bind herself to a dangerous chthonic god with the help of the son of a rival family to save her family’s legacy—and herself—from ruin.

Expelled from her prestigious boarding school following a violent incident, eighteen-year-old Lacrimosa “Lark” Arriscane returns home in disgrace to discover her family on the point of financial ruin. Desperate to save them, she accepts a marriage of convenience…to Therion, the chthonic god worshiped by Lark’s isolated coastal hometown.

But when her betrothal goes horribly wrong, Lark begins to vanish from the mortal realm. Her only hope is to seek help from Alastair Felimath: the brilliant, arrogant boy who was her first heartbreak, and his alluring older sister, Camille. As the trio delves into the folklore of gods, Lark falls under the spell of the Felimath siblings.

Ensnared by a fervent romance, they perform a bacchanalia with hopes the hedonistic ritual will repair the connection between Lark and her bridegroom. Instead, they draw the ire of something much darker, which seeks to destroy Therion—and Lark as well.

“Tenderly, I Am Devoured”

Lyndall Clipstone | July 1st, 2025

Henry Holt/Macmillan (US), Hot Key (UK), Penguin Random House (AUS/NZ)

Print | 9781250348906 | $19.99

Ebook | 9781250348913 | $11.99

LYNDALL CLIPSTONE writes dark tales of flower-threaded horror. A former youth librarian who grew up running wild in the Barossa Ranges of South Australia, she currently lives in Adelaide, in a hundred-year-old cottage with her partner, two children, and a shy black cat. Her debut novel, “Lakesedge,” was a Dymocks, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble bestseller, nominated for the 2021 Book Shimmy Awards, and selected as one of Better Reading’s 2022 top 50 kids’ books. “Unholy Terrors” was featured in Teen Vogue, and chosen as a Kids’ Indie Next Pick for Nov/Dec 2023. Her works have been published in over four territories, including multiple translations. Learn more about Lyndall and her writing at her website.

Follow Lyndall Clipstone on social media:

Instagram: @lkclipstone

TikTok: @lkclipstone

Substack: Magic Letters

In an interview, Lyndall Clipstone can discuss:

Her departure from writing ‘romantasy’ to exploring ‘horrormance’ and why horror and romance make for the perfect genre-blending story
The importance of female-centric horror written by women with a thematic focus on empowerment for teen readers, especially young girls
The necessity of LGBTQ+ stories in horror and how her own queer identity has influenced her creation of a “soft-girl, flower-threaded romantic horror” story
The process of creating a fictional literary and artistic canon, and dead language, for “Tenderly, I Am Devoured,” loosely based on Pre-Raphaelite art, Classical Greek Literature, and Latin texts
How “Tenderly, I Am Devoured” was written after an intense creative burnout when Lyndall thought she might not return to writing
How Lyndall’s background as an artist and illustrator informed her writing and the creation of her own interior art for her book

Advanced Praise for “Tenderly, I Am Devoured”

“A folktale you’d find in the library of a gloomy seaside manor—haunting, ethereal, and lace-delicate.”

–Hannah Whitten, NYT bestselling author of For The Wolf and The Hemlock Queen

“Equal parts romantic and horrifying, Tenderly, I Am Devoured, shimmers with aching loveliness and the deepest yearnings. Clipstone’s world-building is so sumptuous, I’m ready to pack my bags for Verse!”

–Erin A. Craig, #1 New York Times bestselling author of House of Roots and Ruin

“This is a shimmering fever dream of a story, replete with lyrical prose and all the haunting, passionate trappings of the feminine Gothic novel. Decadent and transfixing.”

–Claire Legrand, New York Times bestselling author of Furyborn

“Tenderly, I Am Devoured transported me to a gothic, dreamy, and sea-swept world that I didn’t want to leave. I was wholly enraptured by this story and the fascinating characters that populate it. This book is a dark delight and I can’t recommend it enough.”

–Alexis Henderson, author of The Year of the Witching and An Academy for Liars

Praise for “Unholy Terrors”

Kids’ Indie Next Pick for Nov/Dec 2023

“Lyndall Clipstone has woven a dark dream that ensnares all five senses. Fanged yet delicate, with its windswept moors, blood moons, and aching romance, Unholy Terrors is utterly spellbinding.”

—Rachel Gillig, New York TimesYT bestselling author of The Shepherd King duology

“As romantic as it is gruesome, this heart-stopping gothic fantasy explores what it truly means to be a monster.”

—Kelly Andrew, New York Times bestselling author of The Whispering Dark and Your Blood, My Bones

“A whirlwind journey, filled with heart-wrenching tension and sinister twists. This is the kind of dark romance you thirst for!” —Alexandra Christo, internationally bestselling author of To Kill A Kingdom

Praise for “Lakesedge”

“Brooding and atmospheric.” —Kirkus

“A linguistically lush fantasy.” —Publishers Weekly

“Bloody, sumptuous, and as timeless as a fairy tale.”

—April Genevieve Tucholke, author of The Boneless Mercies

“Lakesedge is an intense tale of mystery and magic that will have lovers of gothic romance eager for the next installment.”

—Juliet Marillier, author of the Blackthorn & Grim and Warrior Bards series

“Reminiscent of the romantically gothic atmosphere of the Phantom of the Opera.” —Dawn Kurtagich, author of And the Trees Crept In and The Dead House

An Interview with Lyndall Clipstone

1. Tell us about ‘horrormance’ and why you felt compelled to write a novel that departs from the popular genre, ‘romantasy.’

I think of horrormance as the goth sibling to romantasy; a genre-blend of horror and romance resulting in a wonderfully spooky, swoony read. I’ve always enjoyed writing character-driven stories, and after three fantasy books, I found myself wanting to lean even more inward with my storytelling. I wanted to intensely focus on the minutiae of character experience, with the interiority of the main character taking a central role in the plot. Horror is a perfect space for this, as the visceral nature of fear–for both the characters in-text and the readers of the story–creates a close-up, microcosmic atmosphere. With the addition of romance, everything is further intensified: much like horror, romance elicits a psychological reaction (desire rather than terror!) and there’s a similar loss of control, of being dragged out of comfortable familiarity. By interweaving a heavy romantic subplot through the main story, the characters’ emotional arcs gain an added layer of tension and depth. It’s absolutely my favorite genre as an author and as a reader, too.

2. How have queer people historically impacted the horror genre? Why did you feel compelled to include queer storylines in “Tenderly, I Am Devoured”?

I can only speak from personal experience, but for me, queerness has an inherent feeling of being remade, of exploring the liminal space of identity and forging your own place within the borders of an established world. Growing up in rural Australia during the 1990s, I didn’t have a strong frame of reference to understand my bisexuality. It was through books such as Poppy Z. Brite’s Lost Souls, one of my first encounters with romantic horror, that I began to make sense of my own emotions. Because of this, I have always strived to include queer storylines as an organic part of my work, for the readers who may see themselves in the experiences of my characters.

3. What was the process behind creating a literary canon and dead language based on Classic Greek Literature and Latin? How were those aspects necessary for the themes and storylines of “Tenderly, I Am Devoured”?

One of my major inspirations for “Tenderly, I Am Devoured” was Donna Tartt’s “The Secret History”. I love how she wove the mythos of Classical Greek Literature through the lives of her protagonists, and how their use of ancient language became emblematic of their insular world. I wanted to create something similar in my own work, but felt having real-world languages and literary themes in my second-world setting would be confusing. Hence: my invented canon. Tharnish, the fictional dead language I created, is formed of a mix of Latin and Cornish, as the setting for “Tenderly, I Am Devoured” is loosely based on the area of Cornwall where my ancestors are from. Alastair’s favorite book, the epic poem The Neriad, is inspired by Virgil’s The Aeneid, particularly Aeneas’s journey to the underworld.

4. What about the horror genre feels so empowering to you as a writer? How does this story aim to inspire and uplift young, female readers?

As a writer, horror is a space where I can explore themes of darkness in ways that are necessary–yet not always palatable. Horror is a genre where I can be truly weird as a creator, and delve into strange and subversive concepts which often provide a new angle to examine a character’s arc. As someone drawn to experimental, fever-dream storylines and prose, I love the freedom I feel when writing horror: particularly when it’s blended with romance. I am also very passionate about writing flawed, “unlikeable” female protagonists. It is my intention, in all my work, to explore the messiness of girlhood, to celebrate girls who are selfish and foolish, who make bad choices yet come out thriving. And I’ve found horror is the perfect genre for this. If readers take anything away from my stories, I hope it is that you have permission to be imperfect.

5. What is next for you as a writer?

I am working on what I hope will become my adult debut: a sapphic horror which I like to pitch as Sierra Simone’s Thornchapel series by way of Mona Awad. I can’t reveal too much yet, but I’m deeply enthralled by this story and these characters, and can’t wait to share it with readers one day.

Download press kit and photos

Award-winning Southern novelist pens lyrical novel on 1930s freak shows and the meaning of “weird”

Posted on December 5, 2024 | by Marissa DeCuir

Tallahassee, FL – What does it mean to be different? From Mark Mustian, founder of the Word of South Festival of Literature and Music and award-winning author of the international bestseller “The Gendarme,” comes the new Southern gothic novel, “Boy With Wings” (March 15, 2025, Koehler Books).

About the book: Johnny Cruel is born with strange appendages on his back, frightening his neighbors and leaving him struggling to find a home. Johnny ends up in a “freak show” traveling the 1930s South, where he bares his back to onlookers who come to gape and fawn. Is he a horror or an angel? Should he hide himself to live his life?

As Johnny comes to grips with his uniqueness, he embarks on a journey of love and finds the miracles that give our lives meaning. Mustian’s thrilling and emotional story of self-discovery is perfect for book clubs and fans of historical fiction.

“Boy With Wings”

Mark Mustian | March 15, 2025 | Koehler Books | Literary Fiction, Historical

Hardcover | ISBN 979-8-88824-429-6 | $28.95

Paperback | ISBN 979-8-88824-427-2 | $19.95

Ebook | ISBN 979-8-88824-428-9 | $7.99

Praise for the Author…

“In this propulsive tale of the magic lurking inside our mortality, Mark Mustian has conjured a surreal hero. Here is a translucent rendering of boyhood and aberration, of the fault lines of race and the frailty of religion. In sentences that are equally primal and poetic, Mustian transports us through the shacks, camps, circuses, and back alleys of the Depression-era South, asking a still-resonant question: what’s the price of belonging in a society that’s already broken?”

–Katy Simpson Smith, author of “The Everlasting,” for “Boy With Wings”

“Novelist Mustian writes relentlessly, telling [Ahmet’s] haunting story in brief bursts of luminous yet entirely unsentimental prose and reminding us that, when life gets bloody, we had better watch out for our own humanity.”

—Library Journal (Starred Review), for “The Gendarme”

“Every decade or so, I find a novel that I sense, just by reading the basic description, will become unforgettable; after reading only 20 pages of ‘The Gendarme,’ my impression was confirmed with great force. For this decade, and this reader, ‘The Gendarme’ is that extraordinary, unforgettable novel…”

—BookPage, for “The Gendarme”

“A well-plotted, well-told story with a powerful, moving message…”

—Baton Rouge Advocate, for “The Gendarme”

“A brilliantly conceived and carefully crafted novel…”

—Southern Literary Review, for “The Gendarme”

About the Author…

ME Pabst last soccer game, Saturday May 18, 2024, & Annie Pabst’s 3 yr old bday party, Sunday May 19, 2024, Ocala, Florida.
[©Cyndi Chambers Sports / 2024]

MARK MUSTIAN is the author of the novels “The Return” and “The Gendarme,” the latter an international bestseller that has been published in eleven languages. He was a finalist for the Dayton International Literary Peace Prize, shortlisted for the Saroyan International Award for Writing, and the winner of the Florida Gold Book Award for fiction. He is the founder and president of the Word of South Festival of Literature and Music in Tallahassee, Florida, now in its tenth year. A former elected official and an attorney, he lives in Florida and Michigan with his wife and elderly dog. Learn more at: www.markmustian.com

Follow Mark Mustian on social media:

Facebook: @MarkMustianAuthor | Twitter: @MarkMustian

In an interview, Mark Mustian can discuss:

What being a Southern writer means to him, and why he founded the Word of South Literary Festival in Tallahassee
How themes of ignorance, superstition and spirituality play into the novel
How race and religion are portrayed in the novel
How the 1930s setting for the novel reveals contemporary issues in society, both in the American South and beyond
What “Southern gothic” means in 2025: its history and resurgence
Why “weirdness” both fascinates and repulses people, and what our complicated reaction really says about us

An Interview with Mark Mustian

1. What inspired you to write “Boy With Wings”?

I’ve thought about writing this book for quite some time. I’ve started it, stopped it, begun again, made revisions. I wanted to dig into what it means to be different, and how that truly feels.

2. Although there are no “freak shows” today as there were in the 1930s, do you believe there’s a contemporary equivalent?

There actually are still a few traveling freak shows, but oddities today are shown mostly on the Internet and TV. Just as in the 1930’s, there’s much that is fake, and some that is real.

3. What is the significance of ignorance and superstition in this book?

Ignorance and superstition are related in certain ways to belief (and religion). We tend to equate anything we don’t or can’t understand to God, but at the same time we fear it. Human oddities seem a perfect example—we’re fascinated even as we’re repelled.

4. What role does spirituality play in the book?

The main character, Johnny, struggles with his body and his belief. Is it God he believes in, or the Bible, or even something else? He struggles also with the role society seems to want him to play. I think those struggles are there for all of us, and spirituality is the path (with its many branches) that can lead us through.

5. As a Southern writer, how do race and religion connect to the book and reflect the region you call home?

It’s hard to write as a Southerner without addressing race and religion, or at least it is for me. Each so permeates life here, and arguments can be made that we’ve come a long way on both, or that we haven’t come very far at all (and don’t want to). Dichotomies are everywhere: the hypocrisies of the Church, the unwillingness to look past oneself, the tribalism that’s in our blood, the absolute beauty of the land and its people. All fertile ground for a writer.

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Therapist confronts childhood abuse, sharing a powerful story of survival, resilience and empowerment in new memoir

Posted on December 5, 2024 | by Marissa DeCuir

SEATTLE – Seasoned psychotherapist Carol Odell’s memoir “Girl, Groomed: A Therapist’s Memoir of Trauma” (She Writes Press, April 22, 2025) is an unflinching exploration of her journey to confront and heal from the complex trauma of childhood sexual abuse within the world of Virginia’s equestrian show-jumping circuit.

Raw and riveting, “Girl, Groomed” is an evolving story of coming to terms with the impacts of Odell’s own history of sexual abuse and violence at the hands of a predatory horse trainer who, for far too much of her young life, held all the reins. Set in the equestrian world of Virginia, this candid memoir details how, starting at ten years old, Carol falls under the spell of Clarentine, the charismatic—and explosively violent—owner of the stables just down the hill from her house. In tandem with that story, Carol examines the multi-faceted consequences of the complex trauma that resulted from the exploitative relationship Clarentine cultivated with her – including the resulting crisis she blindly imposes on her marriage. Chapters toggle back and forth between scenes of her childhood growing up jumping horses on the show circuit and the therapy sessions she later undergoes as an adult.

Using her own journey as an example, Carol demonstrates in this insightful memoir how unintegrated trauma limits us and our connection with others—and how the work of uncovering and reintegrating “what we do with what happens to us” can become the very source of our liberation.

“A powerful, quietly moving memoir of abuse that encapsulates one woman’s incredible resilience.” – Kirkus Reviews

“Girl, Groomed: A Therapist’s Memoir of Trauma”

Carol Odell | April 22, 2025 | She Writes Press | Memoir

Paperback | ISBN: 978-1647428723 | $17.99

Carol Odell, LICSW, grew up riding horses on the show jumping circuit in Virginia. She has been a practicing psychotherapist facilitating groups and working with couples and individuals since 1984. Married for 38 years and the mother of a grown son, her other passions include: squash, pickleball, partner dancing, mosaics, writing, hiking, traveling, and being in community with friends and family. She and her husband, Mark, currently split their time between Seattle and Cle Elum, Washington. Find out more about her at carolodellmsw.com.

Follow Carol Odell on Instagram @mosaicofthoughts_

“In ‘Girl, Groomed’ we are given the heartbreaking, and at times terrifying story of a young girl persistently and indelibly targeted by a sexual predator. Odell holds her story with the reverence of a survivor and the wisdom of the therapist she eventually became. Stirring, unputdownable, and ultimately a story of courage and hope, this book’s beauty lingers long after you have closed its pages.” – Meghan Riordan Jarvis, “End of the Hour: A Therapist’s Memoir”

“Through candid reflection and gripping prose, Odell examines the emotional toll of normalized abuse, the insidious power dynamics she faced, and her long, winding journey toward healing and self-compassion. This memoir offers a profound look at the lasting impact of trauma and the courage it takes to rebuild one’s life.” – Mary Catherine McDonald, “Unbroken: The Trauma Response is Never Wrong”

“This is a story of a violent man who relied on complicity and coercion to leverage—and eventually poison—a young girl’s love of horses, but it is, above all, the story of that little-girl-turned-woman who found the courage and support to take her confidence, agency and majestic horses, back.” – Courtney Maum, “The Year of the Horses”

In an interview, Carol Odell can discuss:

The catalyst for healing – A personal crisis, like her husband asking her to leave, became a pivotal wake-up call for confronting unprocessed trauma and its ripple effects. Healing is not just about the self but also about repairing relationships and breaking harmful patterns.
Understanding grooming and abuse – Grooming often involves a slow desensitization of harmful behaviors, making them harder to recognize in the moment. Predators exploit power imbalances and access to victims, emphasizing the need for oversight and accountability in these environments.
Broader impacts and advocacy – Carol’s story aligns with the #MeToo movement, highlighting grooming, abuse normalization, and the courage to challenge cultural complicity. She advocates for creating compassionate spaces for survivors to share their stories on their terms, without pressure or judgment.
Practical advice for therapy and self-work – Effective therapy involves observing resistance, challenging narratives, and staying present with discomfort as it arises. Healing requires balancing self-compassion with accountability, fostering growth without judgment.
The process of healing and integration – Trauma cannot simply be “gotten over;” it must be understood, integrated, and reframed to prevent cycles of self-judgment and shame. Observing how trauma influences behaviors, like control and criticism in relationships, is key to developing agency and stopping the perpetuation of harm.
Empowerment through rewriting narratives – Survivors can reclaim their power by untangling past trauma’s impact on their lives and crafting new, self-aware responses to triggers. Resilience is built not by avoiding triggers but by consciously responding differently when they arise.
Personal and professional evolution – Sharing her story publicly represents a significant new phase in Carol’s healing journey, embracing vulnerability and connection. Looking forward, she envisions creating space for personal growth, connecting with horses, writing, and spending time with loved ones.
The challenges and rewards of memoir writing – Revisiting traumatic memories through writing required confronting emotions long buried, which was both painful and liberating. Writing serves as a powerful medium for emotionally reconnecting with past experiences and integrating them into a fuller sense of self.

An Interview with Carol Odell

What inspired you to begin the challenging, yet ultimately rewarding, journey of confronting and unpacking the trauma from your childhood abuse?

My husband kicking me out of the house was a harsh wake up call for me to confront how my past unprocessed trauma was still negatively impacting my present life and those around me. I realized that despite a lot of work that I had already sifted through, there were other pieces of my history of abuse and constant exposure to violence that I was negatively paying forward with my husband in the form of control, superiority, contempt…Through what I discovered during this crisis and the freedom I experienced because of this work, I then wanted to share more broadly with others.

What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir?

Putting myself back into the difficult scenes involving abuse was challenging as well as healing. It required me to write down the memories that I had emotionally disconnected from. By recreating these scenes, I had to dredge up those old fragmented away emotions and live into what I had been avoiding. The writing became a portal for me to feel my way back into what had happened to me. It was both painful and liberating.

How did you manage the difficult feelings that must have come up while writing painful scenes in your memoir?

I took regular breaks from my writing and during those I would kickbox while watching tennis on TV. The combination of moving my body in order to literally punch out the stress while watching tennis, which I find rhythmic and meditative, became a good destresser for me. Because writing is such a solitary activity I also made sure to balance this by spending lots of time with friends and in my various communities. Our nervous systems need movement and relationships with others to discharge and heal trauma. It is important that everyone customize whatever works for them.

How did you identify the efforts of your abuser to “groom” you? What signs should people look for? What should we understand about abusers?

As a kid, I had no context or framework to understand that I was being incrementally groomed by a predator. Now looking back I can see how there was such a slow progression of transgressions that it became normalized – like a frog in boiling water. For me, I wanted to keep the relationship with the horses so my abuser’s increasing attention just became the price to pay. As a way of coping, I also created a narrative that made it seem OK and like I was handling the situation. The typical predator/pedophile will commit 117 acts of abuse over the span of their lifetime. They create situations where they have access to children and a power imbalance. In circumstances ripe for this, there needs to be extra accountability and oversight.

Can you explain the importance of integrating trauma as opposed to “getting over it?” Why does this matter? What happens if you take a different approach?

There is a strong cultural notion that the past and all traumatic events are something to “get over.” We all want this to be true. The result is that victims can end up negatively judging themselves and self-shaming when the impact lingers or when the nervous system gets retriggered. There is an honoring of self when we can see with clarity what has been lived through and that it isn’t our fault. The ways of coping were creative and helpful at the time even if they are also now limiting. This recognition of trauma informs our lives, but it doesn’t need to define us. Here is where the work can help rewrite our stories.