Behind the Glitz
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.
