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How far would you go to seek justice?

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How far would you go to seek justice?

This autumn, my latest crime novel, Rough Justice, is being released. It’s a gripping crime thriller that delves into the gritty underworld of London and asks the question: How far would you go to seek justice?

Like my DCI Rob Miller series, Rough Justice explores the darker side of humanity through a complex, character-driven narrative. This time, the story centres around Shrap Nelson, a homeless, female, ex-military investigator battling severe PTSD. Her journey begins when a fellow homeless veteran who once saved her life is brutally murdered. When the police show little interest, Shrap takes it upon herself to uncover the truth. 

It’s a tale that’s been brewing for years, inspired by my observations of London’s unseen communities and the stories of veterans struggling to reintegrate into society. Shrap’s path is fraught with danger and moral ambiguity, forcing her to navigate a world where loyalty is tested, and redemption comes at a steep price. 

I think Shrap’s vulnerability, but inner strength, will resonate with readers, offering a raw and unflinching look at the struggles faced by those living on the fringes of society. Armed only with her sharp intellect and military training, Shrap must rely on her wits and a crew of fellow outcasts to piece together the puzzle. She frequently pushes herself out of her comfort zone and into a world she thought she’d left behind.

Writing Rough Justice was an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing me to explore the themes of loyalty, revenge, and redemption in a deeply personal way. I hope readers find Shrap’s story as compelling and thought-provoking as I did, and that it shines a light on the resilience and courage of those who fight for justice, no matter the cost.

Rough Justice is published by Mortlake Press.

Release date: 1 October 2024

Preorder link https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D35THWG9. 

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📚The Marlow Murders Wins Best Crime Fiction at the National Indie Excellence Awards! 🥳

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I am thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you! My book, The Marlow Murders, has won the Best Crime Fiction award at the 18th Annual National Indie Excellence® Awards (NIEA). This book is one of my favourite of the DCI Rob Miller series, I couldn’t be more honoured.

About the National Indie Excellence Awards

The National Indie Excellence® Awards celebrate excellence in independent publishing, recognising outstanding books across a wide range of genres. Established in 2005, NIEA evaluates books based on their written content, design, and overall production quality. This year, the competition was fiercer than ever, with numerous talented authors and beautifully crafted books in the running.

The Marlow Murders (Detective Rob Miller Mysteries Book 7)

The Marlow Murders takes readers on a thrilling journey through the picturesque setting of Marlow, after Debby Morris, a mother of two, mysteriously disappears from a Christmas party. Detective Rob Miller is brought back from suspension to head a complex investigation that will test his limits. As Debby’s body is discovered weeks later, still dressed in her elf costume, the pressure mounts for Rob to uncover the truth. With another body found and connections between the cases emerging, Rob must race against time to stop a ruthless killer.

This novel is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Fans of Helen H. Durrant, Mick Herron, Joy Ellis, Angela Marsons, Rachel McLean, Alex Smith, and J.M. Dalgliesh will find The Marlow Murders an irresistible addition to their crime fiction collection.

Praise for The Marlow Murders

Here’s what some readers and reviewers have to say about The Marlow Murders:

– “Slick, clever and beautifully contrived, this is one of the best police procedurals I have read in ages.” – Brown Flopsy Reviews

– “What a twist at the end. I’d never have guessed.” – Bookchatter Reviews

– “There is a twist at the end that I really didn’t see coming. I had to explain to my other half why I was shouting at my kindle.” – Ebookwyrm Reviews

The Journey Ahead

Winning the Best Crime Fiction award at the NIEA is an incredible honour that encourages me to continue writing and exploring the depths of crime fiction. I am grateful for the support of my readers, whose enthusiasm and feedback have been invaluable. This achievement is as much yours as it is mine.

Looking Forward

With this accolade, I am more motivated than ever to bring you more compelling stories and unforgettable characters. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you soon.

If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy of The Marlow Murders and dive into the mystery that has captivated readers and critics alike. Let’s celebrate this achievement together and look forward to many more thrilling adventures ahead!

Thank you for your continued support!

~Biba

 

The Marlow Murders is available on Amazon at the links below:

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Read the official press release here. 

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Writing Rough Justice

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Writing Rough Justice

Hey everyone! I’m thrilled to share some behind-the-scenes insights into my latest novel, Rough Justice. Writing this book has been an incredible journey, one that took me deep into the heart of London and into the minds of some of its most overlooked residents. It’s a story about justice, loyalty, and redemption, and I’m so excited to finally bring it to you.

Finding Inspiration in London’s Shadows

The idea for Rough Justice came to me while wandering through the streets of London, my hometown. It’s a city of stark contrasts—where wealth and poverty sit side by side. I often found myself wondering about the lives of those we don’t usually see: the homeless, the veterans struggling with PTSD, and the people living on the fringes of society. These musings eventually led me to Shrap Nelson, the fierce and complex protagonist of Rough Justice.

Shrap is a homeless ex-military investigator with a past that’s as rough as the streets she sleeps on. When her friend Doug, a fellow homeless veteran, is brutally murdered, Shrap takes it upon herself to uncover the truth. This journey pulls her back into a world she thought she’d left behind, navigating the dangerous underbelly of London in search of justice.

Setting the Scene

London’s gritty underworld isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right. The city’s dark alleyways, crowded shelters, and hidden corners add layers of atmosphere and authenticity to the story. London is alive with secrets and shadows, and every street has a story to tell. Setting Rough Justice here allowed me to explore these hidden stories and bring a rich, atmospheric quality to the novel.

Exploring Themes of Loyalty and Redemption

At its core, Rough Justice is a story about loyalty and redemption. Shrap is driven by her fierce loyalty to Doug, who once saved her life. Despite the risks, she feels a deep obligation to uncover the truth behind his death. This loyalty propels her into the heart of London’s criminal underworld, where she must confront not only dangerous adversaries but also her own demons.

Redemption is another key theme in the book. Shrap’s journey isn’t just about solving a murder—it’s about finding a path to healing. Battling severe PTSD, she relies on her military training and sharp intellect to piece together the puzzle. Her quest for justice becomes a quest for self-redemption, a way to reclaim her sense of purpose and worth in a world that’s often been harsh to her.

Creating Shrap Nelson

Creating Shrap was both a challenge and a joy. She’s a character of contrasts—resilient yet vulnerable, strong yet scarred. Her past is marked by the horrors of war and the harsh realities of homelessness, making her journey all the more poignant. Writing her story required me to balance her strength and determination with her pain and struggles.

Shrap’s development throughout the novel is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience. She’s not alone on her journey; she’s supported by a group of societal outcasts, each with their own stories of hardship and survival. This ensemble of characters adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of community and solidarity in the face of adversity. Together, they navigate a world filled with danger and deception, forging bonds that are as fragile as they are unbreakable.

A Tale of Loyalty, Revenge, and Redemption

Rough Justice is more than just a crime thriller—it’s a story that delves into the depths of loyalty, revenge, and redemption. It’s a narrative that explores the human condition through the lens of a character who, despite her struggles, refuses to be defeated.

I hope Rough Justice offers not only a gripping mystery but also a poignant exploration of the themes and characters that define our humanity. Through Shrap Nelson’s journey, I believe you’ll find a story that resonates, captivates, and ultimately, moves you.

Thanks for joining me on this journey. I can’t wait for you all to read Rough Justice! It’s coming out on October 1, 2024, so mark your calendars!

Preorder link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D35THWG9 

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Behind the scenes: Kenzie and Reid

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As an author, I’ve had the privilege of delving deep into the lives of my main characters, uncovering the grit, determination, and unwavering courage that defines them. Today, I invite you to step behind the scenes with me and get to know this dynamic duo who have become like family to me over the course of seven thrilling books.

Any questions, ask in the comments below and I’ll try to answer them for you. 

Kenzie Gilmore Biography

Kenzie Gilmore, a tenacious investigative reporter, has made a name for herself by delving into some of the most perplexing and dangerous cases in sultry southern Florida. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth, she’s tackled everything from the mysterious murder of missing heiress Natalia Cruz in the treacherous Everglades to infiltrating the inner circles of loan sharks and unraveling the dark web of human trafficking. Kenzie’s fearless journalism has not only exposed the underbelly of Miami’s crime world but also put her in the crosshairs of those who’d kill to keep their secrets. Her partnership with ex-cop Reid Garrett has been unexpectedly fruitful, blending her investigative prowess with his law enforcement expertise to solve cases that seemed impenetrable. Kenzie’s stories, marked by heart-stopping moments and shocking revelations, resonate deeply with fans of gritty crime thrillers, earning her a place among the best investigative reporters in fiction.

Reid Garrett Biography

Reid Garrett is a dedicated detective with the Sweetwater Police Department, whose resolve and intuition make him a standout in the field of law enforcement in southern Florida. Despite the serene beauty of the Everglades that he considers his backyard, Reid is all too aware of the darkness that lurks within it, having investigated multiple murders and complex criminal operations that challenge the peace of his community. His unexpected partnership with investigative reporter Kenzie Gilmore has led him down paths he never anticipated, combining his policing skills with her journalistic tenacity to solve some of the most bewildering and dangerous cases Miami has ever seen. From unmasking human traffickers to unraveling the mysteries behind drug-related deaths and beyond, Reid’s commitment to justice is unwavering. His role is not just as an enforcer of the law but as a protector of the innocent, a pursuit that often sees him navigating the fine line between the letter of the law and the spirit of justice. Reid Garrett’s journey is one of courage, resilience, and an unyielding dedication to the badge he wears, embodying the true essence of what it means to serve and protect.

Storm Surge, Kenzie Gilmore Book 7, is out now. Available at Amazon. 

In the eye of the hurricane, lies a deadly secret.

A hurricane blasts the coast of Florida, unleashing mayhem and devastation. Amidst the chaos, a billionaire Miami philanthropist, Salvatore Del Gatto, is suspected of foul play when his yacht washes ashore, containing millions of dollars in stolen diamonds. Investigative reporter, Kenzie Gilmore, is assigned the case.

As the tempest rages on, Lieutenant Reid Garrett’s team discovers a corpse in a demolished coastal property. Initially thought to be a natural death, things take a dramatic turn when an uncut blood diamond is found on the victim. When it’s revealed the victim died six hours before the hurricane made landfall, Reid knows this was no accident.

As Kenzie and Reid piece together what happened, they uncover a sinister plot involving a network of dangerous criminals who will stop at nothing to keep their illegal activities under wraps. Even if it means murder. Suddenly, they’re hurled from the eye of the storm, into the path of the hurricane, as they race against the clock to catch the culprits and bring them to justice.

Purchase now on the links below:

AMAZON US

AMAZON UK

Behind the Glitz

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Unveiling Miami's Diamond Underworld in 'Storm Surge

Storm Surge, set against the backdrop of Miami’s sultry skyline, delves into the murky world of diamond smuggling. My latest blog post goes behind the scenes of the novel, revealing the depth of research and imagination that brings the narrative to life.

The Setting

Miami, a city known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and lavish lifestyles, serves as the perfect backdrop for a tale of luxury and lawlessness. Storm Surge peels back the city’s glittering veneer to expose the criminal underworld thriving beneath. The novel’s setting in Miami is not just a backdrop but a character in its own right, reflecting the dual nature of beauty and danger.

A Storm of Chaos

The novel kicks off with a hurricane’s fury, a force of nature that mirrors the tumultuous events about to unfold. Salvatore Del Gatto, a billionaire philanthropist with a hidden agenda, finds himself at the center of suspicion when his yacht is destroyed and millions in uncut conflict diamonds washes up on the shore. This event sets the stage for an investigation that spirals into the heart of Miami’s smuggling operations.

The Characters

Kenzie Gilmore, an investigative reporter with a nose for the truth, and Lieutenant Reid Garrett, a seasoned law enforcement officer, find their paths converging as they delve into the case. From a corpse discovered in hurricane wreckage, a high-end jewellery thief operating in the Miami area, and the mysterious diamonds, their journey is fraught with danger and intrigue. 

A Web of Deceit

At the heart of Storm Surge is Salvatore Del Gatto, a man whose philanthropic facade masks his role in the criminal network. His character embodies the complexity of Miami’s smuggling underworld, where loyalty is bought, and betrayal is a currency. As Kenzie and Reid unravel the layers of deceit, they realize that all may not be as it seems. Could there be a different antagonist at play here, or is everything connected?

A Race Against Time

The novel thrives on a sense of urgency as Kenzie and Reid piece together clues amidst the chaos left by the hurricane. Their investigation reveals not just a single crime but a sprawling network of corruption that spans from the shores of West Africa to the glittering heart of Miami. The narrative is a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, where the storm outside is matched only by the storm within the city’s underbelly.

Research

Drawing from real-world insights into diamond smuggling and the dynamics of criminal networks, Storm Surge offers a glimpse into the intricacies of global crime rooted on the streets of Miami. There are various organisations involved in international diamond smuggling, and I’ve only referenced some of the main ones in this novel, however, the path the diamonds take, the general procedures and the background are very authentic. 

More Than a Crime Thriller

Beyond its thrilling plot, Storm Surge explores themes of morality, greed, and the fine line between right and wrong. The characters, from Kenzie’s relentless pursuit of the truth to Reid’s dedication to justice, reflect the novel’s deeper questions about the cost of uncovering secrets and the nature of corruption.

Storm Surge is not just a novel; it’s a journey into the heart of darkness that lies beneath the surface of paradise. Set in a city where danger and beauty go hand in hand, it’s a story that entwines the fate of its characters with the pulse of Miami itself, delivering a heart-pounding narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from the eye of the storm to its devastating path.

What’s in Store for 2024?

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On the 2nd of January 2024, I sat down and began writing the next Kenzie Gilmore book. Book 7 in the series, STORM SURGE. Yesterday, I wrote the last line. That’s exactly 6 weeks, although to be fair, I put down a lot more words in the last two weeks than in the first four, but that was because I ran into a couple of sticky plot issues that needed resolving and got behind schedule. Some books are like that. 

I’m branching out this year into the brave new world of direct selling. For the new series of books I have planned, you will now be able to buy them early, before anyone else, via my website. I will also be selling special editions, book bundles and large print versions from my online store. If you’re like me, and your eyes are not as good as they used to be, the large print editions will be a welcome option. 

Speaking of new series, ROUGH JUSTICE, which is releasing mid-year, features a heroine unlike you’ve ever seen before. Gritty, tough, and damaged, she operates in the shadows and will stop at nothing to see justice served. “A female protagonist unlike any you’ve seen before,” was one remark I got from an editor, and “Hugely relatable and filled with pathos,” was another. I can’t wait to bring her to you.

DCI Rob Miller is back for more in the next instalment in the series later in the year. Once again, set along the Thames, this case takes him back to a previous investigation that he’d rather forget, but makes him question whether he caught the right guy the first time round. Stay tuned for more on that. 

Who doesn’t love a good spin-off, right? The latest Dalton Savage book, THE FROST KILLER, introduced a young, FBI agent, Avril Dahl, who now becomes the focus of her own series. Be sure to sign up to my mailing list or follow me on the socials for more about her, and when the first book in the series, COLD RECKONING, is coming out. 

The indominable Dalton Savage will also be back later this year, with his next small-town investigation. There are some changes coming for his team, which he doesn’t see coming, which will keep you on the edge of your seat. Keep a look out for CRIMSON MOON, already available for preorder on Amazon. 

If you’re especially interested in the audiobook versions of my books, please let me know here, via email, or getting in touch via my socials, or hitting reply on my monthly newsletter. There are special deals and promo codes available that you might find useful, as well as trailers, and behind the scenes sneak-peaks. 

2024 promises to be an exciting year, and I’m so grateful to be sharing it with you. 

 

Summer of ’23

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This summer saw a lot of changes, both in my personal and in my professional life. As I was flying over the North Atlantic on my way to Boston, taking my eighteen year old to college in the States, I thought about how lucky I am to be able to do this for a living. Of course, it doesn’t come without hard work, a gruelling schedule, and dedication (those early mornings can be hell!), but at the same time, I am grateful to be able to do what I love. 

Armed with my laptop, I explored the USA’s East Coast after helping my son get settled in. I wrote in coffee shops, libraries and book stores all over New England. I met some amazing people. I went sightseeing, did tours, and walked. A lot. 

It was a fantastic summer, and apart from the rather strange sensation of returning home without my son, I enjoyed every single minute of it. I do realise that I wouldn’t be able to do this without my readers. So if you’ve read one of my books, subscribed to my newsletter, supported me in anyway, or left a review, I’d just like to say a huge THANK YOU. You make my dream possible, and allow me to continue to write about heroes like DCI Rob Miller, Kenzie Gilmore and Sheriff Dalton Savage. I hope to continue to thrill you for many more years to come! 

National Crime Reading Month

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June was National Crime Reading month, a concept created by the CWA (Crime Writers Association) to encourage readers to get to the library, bookshop or local community centre and meet an author, read a new book, be introduced to some new characters. 

I participated in two such events. The first was  an author discussion and signing at West Barnes Library in Motspur Park where I met local readers and sold autographed copies of my books. It was a great way to interact with readeres, and I will endeavour to do more library events in the future. 

The second was a crime writing workshop with author Joy Kluver. Hosted by Wimbledon Bookfest at Wimbledon Library, we taught a hall of beginner crime writers the basic concepts needed to craft your own crime novel. What a great afternoon! 

Thanks to the CWA for coming up with the initiative and to Joy Kluver and the other brilliant local authors who took part. 

 

Soho style

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The Soho Killer. Sounds ominous, right? Well, it is. The fifth book in the DCI Rob Miller series (Joffe Books) is one of the darkest yet. Set in the heart of the capital’s West End, it starts with a brutal murder that sends the local community reeling and law enforcement scrambling to understand what happened.

Rob Miller is nearby on personal business, so gets the call to attend the scene, and what he finds both shocks and horrifies him. Set in August 2022, London is about to enter the most intense heatwave in history, and tensions are running high both at the precinct and on the streets. Tempers flare along with the temperature, and the police are inundated with call outs. Still battling the negative press, the Met are desperate to raise their image and rebuild trust, however, the nature of the brutal crimes is making it very difficult for them. The public expect answers, and they can’t give them any.

Who is killing seemingly random homosexual men on the streets of Soho, and why? The killer is clever, illusive, forensically aware, and seems to know the location of every camera in the area.

When I was researching this book, I took my partner with me to Soho and stood in the centre of Soho Square where the first body was found. “Can you see me?” I shouted.

He glanced at the CCTV camera mounted to the lamp post in the south corner and nodded. “Yep.”

I shifted several paces to the left, under the beady eye of the statue of King Charles II. “What about now?”

“Sort of.”

More shuffling left.

“That’s it!” he called.

And that’s where I placed the body.

I’m surprised we didn’t get called in for questioning ourselves, so furtive was our behaviour. 🙂

I also had a very interesting chat to a guy in a fetish shop about bondage gear, harnesses, colour codes and things that I was not even aware of prior to writing this book. Store owners, street vendors, council clean up workers, bar staff and cafe managers all contributed to my research – and a huge thanks goes out to them.

Soho is a busltling community with a diverse community and I absolutely love it. Having only been in a couple of times in the past, for theatre shows or jazz concerts, I’d never really explored it properly. I can now confidently say I know it extremely well, right down to every CCTV camera , back alley, sex shop and green space.

So if you’re in the area, I highly recommend a panini and coffee at Bar Italia, followed by a lazy early evening visit to ‘Ain’t Nothing But, a local blues bar with a colourful line-up that won’t fail to entertain. Soho has become my new favourite haunt, until the next book, anyway…

Bar Italia in Soho

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