Indie Author Spotlight
D R Johnson
Book Featured: MURDER IN THE FRAME
Tell us about your book in one or two sentences max. (No spoilers!)
Murder in the Frame sees theatrical agent Ginny Fellows and her group of actor friends investigate the murder of a life model at a local art class. What appears to be an open-and-shut case soon reveals secrets reaching far beyond their quiet market town.
Without giving anything away, what makes your book stand out from others in its genre?
The story grew out of my own background. I studied at Liverpool School of Art and later taught art and design in art schools and universities for over twenty years, so the life-drawing classes, art tutors, student personalities and creative atmosphere all come from first-hand experience. It felt like the perfect setting for a murder mystery.
Why should someone pick up your book next?
Because it's a mystery that's as much about the people as the crime. You'll meet characters you'll want to spend time with, enjoy plenty of laughs along the way, and hopefully still be guessing the culprit until the final chapters.
Jay Hirschman
Book Featured: The Auditors
What inspired the idea for this story?
The story was born from my frustration with the "polite nod and glazed-over expression" people give when they hear someone is an auditor. Drawing from 15 years of professional experience, including eleven years at a Big 4 firm, I wanted to prove that auditing is a compelling, high-stakes endeavor that operates at the "financial heart" of the world.
If readers could take away one feeling or message after finishing your book, what would you hope it is?
The core message is that friendship and human connection are the ultimate safeguards against corruption. While technical expertise uncovers the clues, it is the "Friendship Factor"—the unwavering loyalty and collective grit of Jase, Reese, and Andee—that allows them to outmaneuver a global empire and save the world when the systems meant to protect it fail.
Without giving anything away, what makes your book stand out from others in its genre?
It stands out through its "insider authenticity," blending technical accounting realities—like relational databases, P2P cycles, and SOX regulations—directly into the suspense. Unlike traditional thrillers that rely on machine guns, this one proves that data and spreadsheets can be just as dangerous and exciting.
Laric Tolleson
Book Featured: The fire we inherit
Tell us about your book in one or two sentences max. (No spoilers!)
Three years after the last adult died, kids run the city of Las Vegas and 14 year old Aiden Brann begins his first day as a firefighter.
What inspired the idea for this story?
My career as a Las Vegas firefighter inspired many parts of the story, making it relatable and realistic.
Without giving anything away, what makes your book stand out from others in its genre?
My book stands out as it is a dystopian but isn't about overthrowing some evil empire and morally grey characters. My characters are fantastic role models, loving in an amazingly well prepared world despite having no adults.
Kelly Scialampo
Book Featured: Shadows: hexed
If readers could take away one feeling or message after finishing your book, what would you hope it is?
Live, dont hold back. Go out there and go after what you want, you only live once.
What kind of readers do you think would enjoy your book the most?
Anyone who loves vampires and love stories.
If you could tell readers one thing before they start your book, what would it be?
Have an open mind. I learned alot from writing my 1st book Shadows The Unveiling. Book 2 Hexed which is the continuation is so much stronger and really solidifies the trilogy!!
