P.D. Workman's Blog, page 3

Fictional Dads: The Good, The Bad, & The Complex

Father’s Day is just around the corner. I really should have gotten this blog post done last week!

Today, I thought I would take the time to go over the roles of fathers in my books. There are some great ones and some really terrible ones. Just like in real life, I suppose. As much as we praise and express our thanks for those fathers who nurtured us and helped to make us what we are, there is no denying that not everyone has been so blessed. In fact, a fair number would probably rather bypass Father’s Day altogether and not have to think back to any of their experiences.

So let’s go through some characters, starting with the villainous and hopefully working our way uphill.

Young Adult Fiction

Parental figures in young adult fiction are often absent. If not absent, they are at least not involved in their teen’s lives, and the kids are able to come and go pretty much as they please, getting into whatever trouble they can. Here’s how mine break down:

Between the Cracks Click to start this series!

Definitely “bad dads” in this series. The father of the Simpson family is a predatory, sick, abusive individual, who is killed near the beginning of the second book in the series (although we still see him in flashbacks in the other characters’ stories later in the series.)

Ruby’s friend Marty’s father, also a bad dad, as are many of the various foster and step fathers that the other children encounter in the remainders of the series. With a couple of beacons of hope: Ruby’s boyfriend Charlie, while the author of some questionable choices, is nonetheless a good father for Ruby’s daughter, Sheree, from the time she is a toddler until she goes off to college (and later.) Justin tries, and is generally a good father to Marcie and the children he has with Sondra, despite his abandonment of Michelle and Kenny.

Dusty, one of Ronnie’s husbands, is a real sweetheart and is definitely a good dad, as tender and thoughtful with them as he is with Ronnie, raising them on his own when she disappears.

Breaking the Pattern Click to start this series!

Another series full of bad dads. Henry‘s biological father is not mentioned, and his mother moves through a series of boyfriends who are less than stellar. Sandy‘s father, Rene, professes to love her, but is unspeakably evil. Sandy does manage to get together with Peter, who becomes Gracie’s father, a gentle and steadying influence in her life. Bobby has been through multiple foster homes and prefers a home without a father present.

Tamara’s Teardrops Click to start this series!

Tamara’s parents died when she was younger, and her foster father, Mr. Baker, must take the blame for a lot of the bad choices Tamara made. Mr. Henson, the foster father she gets when she is released on parole, is much better, and despite Tamara’s anxiety about foster fathers, does not cross the line with her and remains a good influence throughout the series, though Mrs. Henson definitely outshines him.

Medical Kidnap Files Click to start this series!

Gabriel’s father is rarely mentioned in the Medical Kidnap Files, but he is, at least, not a bad guy. He is serving overseas and does not have much opportunity to see his son, especially after Gabriel’s apprehension.

Renata’s father is not mentioned, she only ever speaks of her mother.

Stand Alone YA Books

Steven’s father (Don’t Forget Steven) is a horrible person, which makes him pretty leery of any other father figures, though his foster father while he is awaiting trial is a pretty good guy. Taylor’s father (Intersexion), though not mentioned much, was also an abuser. Justine’s and Gem’s fathers (Stand Alone and Gem, Himself Alone) are not mentioned. Nathan’s father (Those Who Believe) turns out to be a stand-up guy. Parker’s father (Endless Change) was a good dad but died a few years before the storyline.

Kelli’s biological father (Making Her Mark) is almost too good to be true, though he turns out to have some flaws, like anyone else. Nadie’s father (Questing for a Dream) is not mentioned, but her grandfather raised her and helped to raise several of the other children in their band, whether biologically related or not. He is a strong father figure but struggles with addiction.

Mystery, Suspense, and Thriller Novels

Fathers are not as notably absent in crime fiction as they are in YA fiction, but a lot of my main characters are grown-up foster kids, who therefore do not have strong father figures or were pretty messed up by their fathers. Twisted family histories make for good backstory, with lots of friction and maladaption.

Auntie Clem’s Bakery Cozy Mystery Series Click to start this series!

Erin’s father died before she went into foster care, so she has only had foster fathers growing up. None have been discussed in any detail.

Vic’s pa, a member of an organized crime syndicate, is abusive and not supportive of her gender identity.

The majority of the main characters are women rather than men, forming a sisterhood community, and not much is said about their husbands or fathers.

Reg Rawlins, Psychic Investigator Click to start this series!

Reg Rawlins didn’t know anything about her father when she was young, before her mother died and she went into foster care.

It isn’t until she is an adult that an immortal takes her back in time and she learns something about her father. And let’s just say he is a little… nontraditional.

Good or bad? It’s really hard to say. Mortal values can be so confusing.

Zachary Goldman Mysteries Click to start this series!

Zachary’s father was abusive and a drunk, and Zachary didn’t see him after he turned ten. He had a lot of foster parents, but readers only really learn about one. Mr. Peterson, Lorne, was only Zachary’s foster father for a couple of weeks, and yet changed his life forever. His nurturing spirit and and the gift of a camera forever changed the course of Zachary’s life, and he was there for Zachary in the decades to come, along with his partner Patrick Parker, who became a step father of sorts. If you are looking for chosen family, you will find it in this series.

Zachary himself turns out to be not a bad father figure either. He helped to take care of his younger siblings before the family was broken up, and he helps young people not his own in a number of the books in the series. Although Zachary’s longing to become a father is so far unfulfilled, he is growing into a strong father figure himself.

Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers Click to start this series!

Unlike many of the other characters, Kenzie grew up with her father around. she did not have to worry about povery, homelessness, addiction, or abuse. Her father, when he was home from work, was available to her, interested in her, and supportive of whatever path she wanted to follow in life.

But Kenzie had some issues with him, especially after Amanda’s death. A lot of secrets came to light that she would probably have preferred not to know about. She learned that he was a different sort of person than she had ever realized. And she isn’t so sure she approves of his ruthless self-serving ethics.

Parks Pat Mysteries, Police Procedural Click to start this series!

Margie Patenaude’s father has not yet been mentioned in the series. Nor has her daughter, Christina’s father. But Margie’s grandfather, Moushoom, plays a big role in her life and Christina’s. He is wise and playful, deeply spiritual, and he is one of the reasons she chose to move to Calgary.

Detective Cruz who Margie works closely with, is also portrayed as a loving and attentive father.

Stand Alone Mystery and Suspense

The main character in the first book that I published, Looking Over Your Shoulder, Abe, is a loving and protective father, concerned for the physical and emotional needs of his children. The problem is that he is schizophrenic and when he is having a psychotic break, his judgement about what is real and what is best for his children can change quite a bit.

Leo’s father in Lion Within is another abusive father, sadistic and cruel. But Leo himself, like Zachary, takes over as a father figure to his siblings, helping to raise them while they are all still at home, and when it is just him and the youngest child left, takes Stormy away with him to finish raising her on his own.

Vanna’s father in Pursued by the Past is deceased and is mentioned only very briefly, but it is clear from the way that Vanna and her mother talk about him that he was a special, caring father.

And finally, in Loose the Dogs, we have examples of at least one bad father figure, and others who are good, including the police detective investigating the incidents, who despite his mental health struggles still cares greatly for his daughter and rushes to her aid when he perceives she may be in danger.

It is probably clear from the above that there are more bad dads causing pain and conflict in my books than there are good, but it is important to have a few great dads thrown in there for examples, whether they are biological dads or not.

The rescuers, nurturers, and those who would go to any lengths to protect the children in their charges are just as important to story development and reader satisfaction as the ones who are placed there to cause conflict and personal growth.

So which dads will you choose to read today? Will he be villainous or the nurturers? And how will their behaviour affect their children and the outcome of the story? Click a link or a book cover above to start reading one of these page-turners now.

The post Fictional Dads: The Good, The Bad, & The Complex first appeared on pdworkman.com.

Exploring “Close To Home” by Cara Hunter

A couple of my recent blog posts might interest you!

Peek Behind the Curtain: My Monthly Writing FlowDon’t miss this new release! Fur and Fury

And be sure to .

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme. Read the rules and more teasers at The Purple Booker. Anyone can play along.

Close to Home is the first book I have read in the DI Adam Fawley series by Cara Hunter. (And it’s actually the first in the series.)

Hunter crafts well-rounded characters, particularly DI Adam Fawley himself. He is both relatable and complex, offering a glimpse into the life of a dedicated detective grappling with personal and professional challenges. The supporting cast is equally compelling; each character brings unique aspects that enrich the story.

The novel immerses readers in the police procedures engaging the reader from beginning to end. I did figure out the final twist ahead of time, but it was still satisfying to see it unfold. A good introduction to the series, I would certainly read more in this series.

‘Horrible, isn’t it?’ says the girl beside me, breaking into my thoughts.

Cara Hunter, Close to Home

Summary

A brilliantly plotted psychological crime novel about a missing child and the scandal that erupts in the aftermath with a shocking twist

They know who did it. Perhaps not consciously. Perhaps not yet. But they know.

When eight-year-old Daisy Mason vanishes from her family’s Oxford home during a costume party, Detective Inspector Adam Fawley knows that nine times out of ten, the offender is someone close to home. And Daisy’s family is certainly strange—her mother is obsessed with keeping up appearances, while her father is cold and defensive under questioning. And then there’s Daisy’s little brother, so withdrawn and uncommunicative . . .

Related posts Exploring “Close To Home” by Cara Hunter Peril in the Blooms Reservoir of Secrets Grounded in the Wind Murder and Redemption: Inside J.A. Jance’s Devil’s Claw From Undercover to Uncovering Truths: In This Bright Future From Classics to New Adventures: Your Holiday Reading Awaits! Holiday Happiness Starts Here: Claim Your Literary Treasure Trove! Mysteries Under the X-mas Tree A Fatal Game of Cat and Mouse Atmospheric Settings Meet Twisty Plots in ‘Parks Pat’ Series Organize and Write Your Next Novel with Obsidian Thrill Your Canada Day with Parks Pat Cases 1-9 Parks Pat Cases 1-9 Parks Pat Cases 7-9 Secrets and Suspense: With Child – A Kate Martinelli Mystery Turn a Page on the New Year Echoes of the Engine Bench with a View Beneath the Icy Depths Dick Wolf’s The Ultimatum: A Must-Read for Thriller Fans




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He Broke the Silence

by P.D. Workman


Preorder
Series: Zachary Goldman Mysteries #20
Genres: Mystery, Suspense, Mystery/Suspense

eBook Price: $ 5.99 USD
Paperback Price: $ 15.95 USD


eBook Paperback Accessibility Pack RetailersBookbubBingebooks Goodreads

Coming Soon!

He Broke the SilenceAboutPraise for Zachary GoldmanAuthor NotesBook Club ResourcesOn my BlogPraise for P.D. Workman

In a case where silence speaks louder than words, Zachary must navigate a tangled web to uncover the truth that could change a child’s life forever.

Innocence Caught in the Crossfire

When a brutal home invasion leaves a father dead and his young son, Leo, traumatized, Zachary Goldman, private investigator, is hired to find answers. The attack is dismissed as random, but Zachary suspects a far more sinister motive.

With his unique gift of reaching those who cannot or will not speak and an unwavering determination to find justice, Zachary delves deeper into the case. He finds himself unraveling a complex tapestry of family dynamics, hidden motives, and desperate decisions, but as he gets closer to the truth, he discovers that not everything is as it seems.

With the threat of powerful enemies looming, Zachary must protect his young witness and expose the killers before the silence becomes permanent.

For readers who crave complex, character-driven suspense and detailed investigations.

Can Zachary break the silence before it’s too late? Order your copy of He Broke the Silence today!

Join Zachary Goldman on his latest investigation—where every moment counts in the pursuit of justice and healing. Order your copy today!

Reviews for the Series

— an amazing and suspenseful story. It carries you away into a psychological tailspin that keeps you going in so many different directions.

— A really good piece of detective fiction with some novel and original features which keep the reader guessing until the last few pages.

— I love the way the investigation plays out…very interesting.  That is done very well. It held my interest. I very much wanted to find out the outcome…

— Very well written. [Zachary] is flawed with a capital F … In spite of his problems, he is a very sympathetic character and doggedly pursues the truth.

— What a great story. Fabulous plot with interesting and complex characters. I was totally involved into the wee hours. Many twists and left waiting until the end. Highly recommended

— an amazing and suspenseful story. It carries you away into a psychological tailspin that keeps you going in so many different directions.

— A really good piece of detective fiction with some novel and original features which keep the reader guessing until the last few pages.

— I love the way the investigation plays out…very interesting.  That is done very well. It held my interest. I very much wanted to find out the outcome…

— Very well written. [Zachary] is flawed with a capital F … In spite of his problems, he is a very sympathetic character and doggedly pursues the truth.

— [She Wore Mourning] made for a pleasant read while presenting an interesting story.

— What a great story. Fabulous plot with interesting and complex characters. I was totally involved into the wee hours. Many twists and left waiting until the end. Highly recommended

— Wow! I just finished it. In one day! I could not stop reading it! This book grabs hold of you from the start. It’s a very well written detective novel. It pulls you not the story and is very emotional. You feel for the characters. This is the first novel I have read by this author but it will not be my last. I highly recommend this book.

Author Notes may contain spoilers!

Coming Soon

Coming soon A Thrilling Way to Explore World Cultures From Stigma to Strength: Celebrating Autistic Identity Mental Health Awareness Month Read for International Women’s Day An early Christmas Present – Unlawful Harvest and other new releases He Was Not There and Freebies this Weekend He Was Not There and more new releases! Books for your birthday She was Dying Anyway and a round-up of new releases Excerpt from “Stand Alone”




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“Every single one of [P.D. Workman’s] books has spoken to me … And I have found strength in the books I’ve read.”

“This is one author I certainly will be looking out for, I can’t recommend her enough.”

“I’ll read anything by P. D. Workman that I can get my hands on.”

“Every book by PD Workman that I’ve read has been a gripping one, however different the genres are, going from lighter mysteries to really dark ones… this is one of my favourite, most dependable authors.”

“P.D. Workman is an incredibly versatile writer. No matter which of her books I read I am drawn into a great story and honestly, I don’t think I’ve followed another author that could go from cozy mystery to YA to a PI series dealing with mental health issues. Really enjoy her books!”

“[P.D. Workman’s] stories are so believable and you can’t help but feel like you know these people. You find yourself crying, laughing and feeling the characters emotions. Now if an author can make you cry and feel every emotion in a story, she is one hell of an author.”

“P. D. Workman, does not shy from probing the deep psychological scars of childhood trauma, mental illness, and addiction. Also characteristic of this author, these extremely sensitive issues are explored with extensive empathy, described with incredible clarity, and portrayed with profound insight.”

“Once again P.D.Workman has created an intense psychological mystery that impacts a wallop of thought induction. The writing is so well developed and draws you into the characters story.”

About P.D. Workman

P.D. Workman is a USA Today Bestselling author and multi-award winner, renowned for her prolific output of over 100 published works that span various genres. With a knack for crafting page-turners, Workman captivates readers with everything from cozy mysteries like the Auntie Clem’s Bakery series to gripping young adult and suspense novels.

A prolific reader and writer since childhood, P.D. Workman crafts emotionally powerful stories that don’t shy away from hard topics. Her books tackle mental illness, addiction, abuse, and trauma with raw honesty and compassion, giving voice to the often unheard. If you crave authentic, character-driven page-turners that hit deep and stay with you long after the final page, you’re in the right place.

With each new release, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling blend of thought-provoking storytelling and relatable characters that define P.D. Workman’s brand as an author of unforgettable page-turners—gripping tales that leave a lasting impact long after the last page is turned.

P. D. Workman does not shy from probing the deep psychological scars of childhood trauma, mental illness, and addiction. Also characteristic of this author, these extremely sensitive issues are explored with extensive empathy, described with incredible clarity, and portrayed with profound insight.
—Kim, Goodreads reviewer

The post He Broke the Silence first appeared on pdworkman.com.

2025-07-18 – Release of Healed to Death

Watch my blog and social media for the release of Healed to Death, the next book in the Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers series

Join Assistant Medical Examiner Kenzie Kirsch as she uncovers dark secrets lurking in the shadows of the streets. When a homeless man dies under mysterious circumstances, Kenzie must untangle a web of deceit involving a rogue “Night Doctor” who treats society’s most vulnerable with chilling unpredictability.

Can she navigate the ethical dilemmas and dangerous alleys before more lives are lost? Or will this case prove too deadly?

With riveting twists and socially relevant themes, this gripping medical mystery will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Praise for Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers

 This mesmerizing tale is sure to keep you up late reading “just one more chapter” until you come to the realization that you are not going to put this book down until you have finished the very last sentence.

 I always look forward to another story in this series because the author consistently delivers timely, relevant stories peopled with believable characters that are convincingly human, complete with positive attributes as well as fears, foibles and flaws. Add in the riveting details of an assistant medical examiner’s work with the bodies of victims who succumbed to all manner of abuse, misfortune and violence, and you will invariably be in for a thrilling ride …

P.D. Workman never fails to deliver an intriguing mystery with plenty of thrills, drama, and unexpected twists that will hold your attention from start to finish. The characters are believable, with flaws and attributes that will endear them to the reader. The stories always have, at their heart, socially relevant topics that are explored with compassion, intelligence, and dignity.

Looking for a strong female lead in an engaging medical mystery? Award-winning and USA Today Bestselling Author P.D. Workman brings you an up-and-coming Medical Examiner’s Assistant who is right up your alley.

Join Dr. Kenzie Kirsch as she uncovers mysteries, conspiracies, and thrills!

The post 2025-07-18 – Release of Healed to Death first appeared on pdworkman.com.

Peek Behind the Curtain: My Monthly Writing Flow

Introduction

“Readers want a behind-the-scenes look at your process.”

And writers want to know how I can write and publish at the pace I do.

I end up doing a brief “elevator” recap for people who want to know my writing process, but what if they want to do a deeper dive? What if we only have 30 seconds and they want a longer explanation? It also takes me time and energy to briefly summarize t my process every time I answer a question about it in writer’s groups. Posting it here, I can satisfy readers who are curious about my process and direct authors who are interested here with a link.

Monthly Workflow1. Last week of the month

During the last week each month, I begin planning for the next month’s book.

Obsidian:

My use of Obsidian for writing is recorded in a few blog posts, such as Organize and Write Your Next Novel with Obsidian.

To kick things off, I create a new folder for the new book in the series folder and opt-drag the subfolders and documents from my “new book template” folder over. This provides the initial infrastructure for the book. (Obsidian uses folders/files stored on your hard drive, not a cloud-based database.)

I begin by brainstorm using mindmapping the current state of affairs in the series and possible directions to go, listing and reviewing open loops I may have in the series, and reviewing any other notes I may have on ideas for the series.

Once a storyline or idea starts to gel, I use a variation of the Snowflake Method: starting with a one-sentence logline, expanding to a five-line summary, back-cover copy, and other marketing metadata, then expanding again to an outline and character sketches. All of this takes place in Obsidian. This is where all of the action happens.

As part of this planning process, I create my cover and title (before beginning the book). I will make any adjustments to the back cover copy/product blurb after the story is drafted. It never goes exactly where I expected.

I create my research notes (on poisons, forensic techniques, cultural settings, etc.) in Obsidian. Research notes that may be reused in later books will be copied to my main research files database after the book is drafted. That way I don’t have to remember which bit of research was used for each individual book.

I prepare character sheets, which are supplemented with pinned images of character models for consistent visual reference

Todoist:

Todoist is my project and task manager. For each new book I import my master project template, which includes planning tasks, drafting the book, getting it through the publication process, over 150 tasks for each book. This template is stored as an Excel spreadsheet so that I can add the book title and publication date, and it generates the descriptions and due dates for the rest of the tasks to be imported into Todoist.

2. Drafting (Days 1–20)Time-Blocking in Fantastical (Google Calendar)

My writing timeslots are blocked out in yellow (e.g., 8 am–9:30 am, 12:30 pm–3:00 pm, 6:00 pm-8:00 pm) six days a week. I do sprints in whatever group I can (I’ve got a good messenger group right now, but it seems like all sprint groups peter out sooner or later.)

Daily Word Quota:

My goal is 6,000 words per day Monday through Saturday, with Sunday as a rest day. I generally begin with a review of the summary of the previous day’s work, reading through the last 500-1000 words, and writing out thoughts and ideas about the next scenes in my Rocketbook. Then I jump into sprints.

Progress Tracking:

I generally type all of the day’s work in one file, so I can see word count at a glance. Sometimes I like to write in the OhWrite! Global Room, because it is fun to collect the stars and occasionally chat with the other writers there. The OhWrite editor window is a markdown editor, so I can use all of the same formatting as I use in Obsidian, and I can just copy/paste into the file in Obsidian. After all the words are done, I then use the Note Refactor plugin to split it into chapter files on the H2 headings. I have some custom CSS set up on OhWrite to make it look the way it does below.

The status bar in Obsidian also tells me how many words are in the project (book) in total.

Sometimes I generate pictures for visualization purposes or future marketing.

At the end of the day, I summarize each chapter, and make note of interesting pull quotes, etc. for marketing purposes.

3. Comprehensive Edit (Days 21–26)Revisions, Structural Review, Line Edits:

I track all tweaks, style notes, and unresolved questions in Obsidian using Callouts and Dataview tables to ensure nothing slips through. You might enjoy reading mor ein Elevate Your Writing Process: Using Callouts in Obsidian.

During this editing phase, I perform a deep pass on plot flow, pacing, character arcs, and prose. This is my main edit for that book and takes 4-6 days.

Other Edits:

Then I do a second edit on last month’s book. And a polish of the book from the month before. And a final edit of the book going to my editor, and reviewing my editor’s comments on the one being published next month before formatting (Vellum) and sending to ARC readers. Yes, that is 5-7 books to be edited each month.

Other Tasks

I also perform other tasks such as finalizing the back cover copy, updating the cover, creating mock-ups and pull quotes, creating a web page for the book, listing it for preorder in all stores, and copying research to my main research folder.

4. Next-Month PlanningSeasoning

After editing this month’s book is complete, I put it aside for 30 days when I can reread it with fresh eyes.

Planning:

While I am still editing, I begin planning for the next month, importing the Todoist template and outlining and researching in Obsidian so that on the first day of the next month, I can begin writing without delay.

Project/Task Planning Process 1. Monthly Planning

Because I follow the same schedule each month, I know my general writing workload at any particular time of the month.

My monthly dashboard, which used to be recorded in an analog bullet journal, with items to be covered during the month is in Todoist in a kanban board view.

The month’s promotions are also tracked in a similar kanban. The red-yellow-green dots are status indicators that tell me at a glance whether the promo is “flight ready” or not.

Those two monthly dashboards are exported to Obsidian to be printed for insertion into my A6 binder.

2. Weekly Planning

Each Sunday I run through a fairly involved weekly planning exercise.

The week plan also include a review of my Fantastical calendar and adjustment of my writing sessions alongside personal commitments (exercise, family time) to ensure work-life balance.

My weekly schedule follows the same flow each week and only needs to be adjusted few outside commitments.

During this weekly review, I set my “Big Rock” tasks for the week: my writing goals, publication prep, holiday prep, family stuff, or other important projects. These are set up on an Alistair Grid in Obsidian, which I print out and place in my A6 binder.

Daily Workflow1. A6 Analog Binder (Daily Plan)

Each night before bed, I write down only my tasks from the week grid on the right-hand page, and my time blocks from Fantastical on the left-hand page. This is my last “commitment” check:

Am I really going to do this? Does anything need to be adjusted?Any possible issues?

Having this information in my binder ensures that it is in front of me during the day with no electronic distractions.

2. Task Execution & Capture

Check-Off: As I’m completing tasks throughout the day, I check the priority goals off with an “X” in my binder (on both the daily page and the week dashboard). I also have lots of other tasks to do and check off as complete in Todoist.

Deferrals: Any unfinished tasks in my binder are marked with “>” as they are migrated/rescheduled for a later date. And/or they are resheduled in Todoist.

Quick Notes: Brief notes, insights, etc. are jotted down below my priority tasks on the right-hand page.

Recap of Tools

A6 Analog Binder: My plain paper daily planner used for recording top priorities and daily time blocks. There are also tabs for month and week dashboards

Rocketbook: Freeform writing journal/planner/prewriting.

Todoist: My master task manager where project templates reside along with due-dates, labels, and reminders.

Obsidian: My notes and writing—a general vault for day to day work plus series vaults containing everything from outlines through character sheets, to research logs, daily journals, and manuscript compilation via Longform.

Fantastical (Google Calendar): This acts as single source of truth regarding all scheduled activities including writing blocks, meetings, calls, workout sessions, and personal and family commitments.

The post Peek Behind the Curtain: My Monthly Writing Flow first appeared on pdworkman.com.

Don’t miss this new release! Fur and Fury

I am really excited to announce the release of the next book in the Reg Rawlins, Psychic Investigator series, Fur and Fury! If you just finished Spellbound Statues, you will know that everything is not well in Black Sands. And trust me, things are about to get even more intense!

About Fur and Fury

Fur and Fury: A Riveting Paranormal Mystery and Adventure by award-winning and USA Today Bestselling Author P.D. Workman

Welcome back to Black Sands, a town where ancient rivalries between warlocks and werewolves threaten to erupt into chaos. Get ready for a gripping tale filled with magic, mystery, and a fierce struggle for power.

A Town Divided

In the heart of Black Sands, tensions have reached a boiling point. Reg Rawlins, our beloved psychic investigator who has always preferred to stay on the fringes of her supernatural world, suddenly finds herself thrust into an escalating conflict between two powerful factions.

When a peace summit goes awry, Reg discovers the key to an ancient artifact capable of reversing Corvin’s curse—an artifact located deep within werewolf territory. With warlocks armed with centuries of magical knowledge on one side and primal werewolves on the other, Reg must step up as she navigates this perilous situation.

Can she unite these divided factions before it’s too late? With betrayal lurking around every corner and alliances shifting like sand, Fur and Fury promises readers an exhilarating ride filled with intrigue, danger, and heart.

A Must-Read for Fans of Paranormal Mystery and Adventure

Don’t miss out on this spellbinding adventure! Choose your format below and join Reg Rawlins on her quest for truth amidst deception!

Who Will Enjoy Fur and Fury?

Fur and Fury is perfect for fans of paranormal mysteries who love strong characters navigating complex relationships against a backdrop of magical intrigue. If you enjoy stories where humor meets heart—where witty dialogue dances with dramatic twists—you’ll find yourself completely immersed in Reg Rawlins’ world.

This book will appeal particularly to readers who love:

Strong Female Protagonists: Reg is no ordinary hero; she’s a con artist turned psychic sleuth who brings wit and resilience to every challenge.Paranormal Elements: The blend of warlocks, werewolves, magic artifacts, and psychic abilities creates a vibrant tapestry that will captivate fans of fantasy.Mysteries with Depth: This isn’t just another cozy mystery; it’s filled with tension as characters grapple with age-old conflicts while navigating their personal stakes.Genre Tropes

Expect classic genre tropes such as:

Rival Factions: The long-standing feud between warlocks and werewolves adds layers of conflict.The Reluctant Heroine: Reg may not want the spotlight or responsibility but finds herself at its center nonetheless.Action-Packed Quest: A race against time to recover an ancient artifact drives the narrative forward.Betrayal & Deceit: Trust issues abound as alliances shift unexpectedly.Early Reviews

Here’s what early readers are saying about Fur and Fury:

“Treachery! Tensions between warlocks and werewolves are at an all-time high…Reg certainly has her hands full. P.D. Workman has proven herself as a prolific author whose boundless imagination will entertain any fan of paranormal cozies.“

“I love this series! This book is another great addition. I love these magical characters. It picks up right where the last one ended.”

Join Reg Rawlins as she dives headfirst into another thrilling adventure filled with magic, mystery, humor, heart—and plenty of surprises along the way! Don’t wait—grab your copy of Fur and Fury today!

Don’t Worry If You’re New to the Series!

Fur and Fury is a great standalone adventure—ideal for anyone who’s new and wants to jump into a fun story. The characters and settings are so well done that even if you haven’t read the earlier books, you’ll find yourself hooked in no time. And for those of you who are already fans, dive back into the town of Black Sands and reengage with Reg and her friends.

If you’re just starting out or catching up on the series, check out the offers below.

Special Deals

To celebrate the release of Fur and Fury, I have some fantastic deals on other books in the series:

What the Cat Knew (Book 1)

$0.99

Start your journey with What the Cat Knew, Book 1 in the series—perfect for newcomers eager to dive into Reg’s world!

Reg Rawlins, self-confessed con man arrives in the enchanting town of Black Sands and finds that it is not at all the place she expected—and neither is she. Buy direct for $0.99 for a limited time

Reg Rawlins Books 19-21

3 IN 1

Grab a bundle deal on Books 19-21 to catch up before you jump into Fur and Fury!

Save by purchasing books 19-21, available at all popular online retailers or my estore. Kidnappings, cats, cursed chocolate truffles and shifters.

Reg Rawlins Books 1-21

BEST DEAL

Or go all out with our best deal: snag Books 1-21 in one incredible bundle at my e-store!

Get the entire collection of books 1-21 for a savings of 50%! The magical world of Reg Rawlins, Psychic Investigator, complete with cats, dragons, fairies, dwarfs, witches, and treacherous warlocks is yours.

Happy reading!

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below or connect with me on social media—I’d love to hear what you think about Reg’s latest escapade!

The post Don’t miss this new release! Fur and Fury first appeared on pdworkman.com.

Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers 8-10

by P.D. Workman


Series: A Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thriller
Genres: Mystery, Suspense, Thriller, Mystery/Suspense

eBook Price: $ 9.99 USD


eBook Retailers

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Make it a bundle:
Big Bundle Zachary and Kenzie Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers 8-10

…especially engrossing because of the subject material, the powerful emotions, the unexpected twists and the masterful weaving together of the details that will undoubtedly leave me thinking about this book for some time

AboutPraise for Kenzie KirschOn my BlogPraise for P.D. WorkmanFrom USA Today Bestselling Author, P.D. Workman!

Kenzie has another body on her hands

Looking for a strong female lead in an engaging medical mystery? Award-winning and USA Today Bestselling Author P.D. Workman brings you an up-and-coming Medical Examiner’s Assistant who is right up your alley.

Kenzie Kirsch, brilliant assistant medical examiner, is about to uncover deadly secrets. Follow her as she navigates the treacherous world of medicine and crime in the Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers series. With her sharp intellect and unwavering determination, Kenzie will stop at nothing to solve the most puzzling medical mysteries. Prepare yourself for heart-pounding suspense and shocking revelations. Bestselling Author P.D. Workman will keep you guessing until the very end.

This ebook includes three books in this series:

8. Endowed With Death
9. Shattered to Death
10. Captured in Death

Endowed With Death

The death of a child is always heartbreaking, but what Kenzie Kirsch, assistant to the Medical Examiner, finds on her slab shakes her to the core. Kenzie can’t help but feel a surge of anger and sadness as she examines the evidence.

Shattered to Death

As Kenzie Kirsch delves into the mysterious death of a patient, she stumbles upon illicit human experiments preying on the most vulnerable. The exploitation of those seeking solace and healing is a chilling reality Kenzie cannot ignore.

Captured in Death

Follow Kenzie, the assistant medical examiner, as she races against time to unravel the mystery behind photo of a dead man that has been circulating amongst the local teens. 

P.D. Workman never fails to deliver an intriguing mystery with plenty of thrills, drama, and unexpected twists that will hold your attention from start to finish. The characters are believable, with flaws and attributes that will endear them to the reader. The stories always have, at their heart, socially relevant topics that are explored with compassion, intelligence, and dignity.

The writing is skillful, with wonderfully complex plots and well-developed characters. Highly recommended!

If you are a reader of the Zachary Goldman Mysteries series, you have already met Kenzie Kirsch. This series is a spinoff from Zachary Goldman Mysteries, giving Kenzie a front-and-center position in solving medical mysteries.

Join Dr. Kenzie Kirsch as she uncovers mysteries, conspiracies, and thrills!

“P.D. Workman has done it again. she has managed to write a book that will push your buttons. If it doesn’t then you need to take another look.”

“This is a brilliant read. Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start. Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable. Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story. Can’t wait to see what the author brings us next!”

“Absolutely fabulous as always.”

2025-06-16 – New Release Currying Death 5 Days Missing – Unravel the Secrets in “She Once Vanished”! A Thrilling Ride Awaits You in “He was Deceived” Plot Twists and Triumphs: 2024 Review Get Hooked: She Was Out of Reach Hits Shelves Today! Holiday Happiness Starts Here: Claim Your Literary Treasure Trove! A Chilling New Tale Awaits: Read “Captured In Death” Humor and Heart in David Rosenfelt’s “Holy Chow” Solving Mysteries With Bytes And Brains: Man Overboard Uncover the Chilling Secrets of Shattered to Death Unraveling a Killer’s Mind: Kellerman’s “Over the Edge” Kenzie Kirsch is Back in a Gripping New Mystery Celebrating Highlights From 2023 And Exciting Releases In 2024 Turn a Page on the New Year Black Friday Blowout: Your Ultimate Binge Read Dick Wolf’s The Ultimatum: A Must-Read for Thriller Fans Ignite Your Halloween Spirit with these Thrilling Reads You Won’t Want to Put Down this New Release Unleash the Magic of Ink and Shadows The Truth Will Be Revealed: Posed for Death Booked to Die: A Page-Turner with a Unique Twist Unlawful Harvest and Living Donor Day Aging with Attitude: Geezer-Lit Mysteries Nobody is Perfect, Even in a Fictional World Revealing the Naked Truth in Devil’s Delight Don’t Miss Out on This Thrilling Adventure! Open Up a Whole New World of Reading With an Accessibility Pack Bidding Farewell to 2022, Hello 2023! Exploring the Depths of a Closed-Scene Mystery October is my Bookiversary It’s Camp Nanowrimo Time Again Celebrating Celiac Disease Awareness Month with Fictional Characters Get Gentle Angel for $0.99 and other great deals! Curl up with a Christmas book Something could happen in the Blink of an Eye New release day! Gentle Angel and more A deal on Dosed to Death and other books Giving thanks for books! Investigating A Most Curious Murder Dosed to Death and other new releases Let’s not forget this classic Agatha Christie Unlawful Harvest and other great DEALS! Fiction Books for ADHD Awareness Curl Up With The Cat Who Blew the Whistle Doctored Death and more new releases! Another Bookiversary [image error] Let the fake snow fly, it is Christmas in July! Books for Father’s Day Fiction about Human Trafficking Unlawful Harvest and other freebies this weekend Excerpt from Before the Fall An early Christmas Present – Unlawful Harvest and other new releases Reviewed by Randy: She Was Dying Anyway Do No Harm and other New Releases Excerpt from Two Kinds of Truth Summer writing




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“Every single one of [P.D. Workman’s] books has spoken to me … And I have found strength in the books I’ve read.”

“This is one author I certainly will be looking out for, I can’t recommend her enough.”

“I’ll read anything by P. D. Workman that I can get my hands on.”

“Every book by PD Workman that I’ve read has been a gripping one, however different the genres are, going from lighter mysteries to really dark ones… this is one of my favourite, most dependable authors.”

“P.D. Workman is an incredibly versatile writer. No matter which of her books I read I am drawn into a great story and honestly, I don’t think I’ve followed another author that could go from cozy mystery to YA to a PI series dealing with mental health issues. Really enjoy her books!”

“[P.D. Workman’s] stories are so believable and you can’t help but feel like you know these people. You find yourself crying, laughing and feeling the characters emotions. Now if an author can make you cry and feel every emotion in a story, she is one hell of an author.”

“P. D. Workman, does not shy from probing the deep psychological scars of childhood trauma, mental illness, and addiction. Also characteristic of this author, these extremely sensitive issues are explored with extensive empathy, described with incredible clarity, and portrayed with profound insight.”

“Once again P.D.Workman has created an intense psychological mystery that impacts a wallop of thought induction. The writing is so well developed and draws you into the characters story.”

Goodreads reviews for Endowed with Death Reviews from Goodreads.com About P.D. Workman

P.D. Workman is a USA Today Bestselling author and multi-award winner, renowned for her prolific output of over 100 published works that span various genres. With a knack for crafting page-turners, Workman captivates readers with everything from cozy mysteries like the Auntie Clem’s Bakery series to gripping young adult and suspense novels.

A prolific reader and writer since childhood, P.D. Workman crafts emotionally powerful stories that don’t shy away from hard topics. Her books tackle mental illness, addiction, abuse, and trauma with raw honesty and compassion, giving voice to the often unheard. If you crave authentic, character-driven page-turners that hit deep and stay with you long after the final page, you’re in the right place.

With each new release, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling blend of thought-provoking storytelling and relatable characters that define P.D. Workman’s brand as an author of unforgettable page-turners—gripping tales that leave a lasting impact long after the last page is turned.

P. D. Workman does not shy from probing the deep psychological scars of childhood trauma, mental illness, and addiction. Also characteristic of this author, these extremely sensitive issues are explored with extensive empathy, described with incredible clarity, and portrayed with profound insight.
—Kim, Goodreads reviewer

The post Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers 8-10 first appeared on pdworkman.com.

Celebrate with the Perfect Mother’s Day Book

This Mother’s Day, celebrate the incredible women in your life with the gift of literature! Whether you’re searching for a heartfelt read for yourself or a thoughtful present for your mom, we have the perfect solution. Dive into our fun quiz to find P.D. Workman books that highlight strong and/or loving mother figures, and make this Mother’s Day memorable!

Why Books Make Perfect Mother’s Day Gift

Books have a unique power to connect us with emotions and experiences. They can inspire, uplift, and remind us of the strength found in motherhood. This year, give her a gift she can enjoy over and over—an engaging story that explores the complexities of our relationships with our mothers.

This year for Mother’s Day, I have something fun for you to try!

Are you looking for a book for you or your mom to read this Mother’s Day? Looking for books about strong and/or loving mother figures, but don’t know where to start?

Just answer a few questions, and this handy quiz will pick a favourite P.D. Workman page-turner for you!

Mother’s Day Quiz

Start the Mother’s Day Book Quiz Now!

Explore Previous Year’s Recommendations

Looking for more inspiration? Check out these posts from previous years:

A Mother’s Day Literary Brunch – pdworkman.comGive Yourself Books for Mother’s DayBooks for Mom! Buy Her Books for Mother’s DayReading About Strong MothersFamily Matters: Books That Celebrate MothersShare Your Results!

After completing our quiz, don’t forget to share your results on social media! Tag @pdworkmanauthor and #MothersDayReads so I can see what you are enjoying.

Join Our Community

Want more book recommendations tailored just for you? Sign up for my newsletter to receive updates on new releases, special offers, and literary insights related to P.D. Workman’s works.

Conclusion

This Mother’s Day, let literature be your way of expressing gratitude and love towards those who nurture us. Whether you choose a book from our quiz or explore past recommendations, each story has the potential to resonate deeply with its reader. Celebrate motherhood through fiction—it’s a gift that will be cherished forever.

Happy reading this Mother’s Day!

The post Celebrate with the Perfect Mother’s Day Book first appeared on pdworkman.com.

2025-06-20 – New Release Currying Death

Suspense, science, and a strong female lead! “Currying Death” will keep you guessing until the very last page! Are you ready?

Watch my website and social media for the launch of Currying Death, book #11 in the Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thriller series.

Death was on the menu

When a man is found dead under suspicious circumstances, assistant medical examiner Kenzie Kirsch steps in to unravel the mystery. With her sharp eye for detail, Kenzie suspects foul play and dives into a chilling investigation.

As Kenzie uncovers unexpected behavioral changes, mysterious health issues, and rising tensions in the victim’s life, she realizes she’s dealing with something far more sinister than natural causes.

Blending scientific rigor with heart-pounding suspense, “Currying Death” promises an enthralling journey through forensic science and human psychology. Every clue matters and every character hides a secret in this gripping tale that will keep you hooked until the last page.

Praise for Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers

 This mesmerizing tale is sure to keep you up late reading “just one more chapter” until you come to the realization that you are not going to put this book down until you have finished the very last sentence.

 I always look forward to another story in this series because the author consistently delivers timely, relevant stories peopled with believable characters that are convincingly human, complete with positive attributes as well as fears, foibles and flaws. Add in the riveting details of an assistant medical examiner’s work with the bodies of victims who succumbed to all manner of abuse, misfortune and violence, and you will invariably be in for a thrilling ride …

P.D. Workman never fails to deliver an intriguing mystery with plenty of thrills, drama, and unexpected twists that will hold your attention from start to finish. The characters are believable, with flaws and attributes that will endear them to the reader. The stories always have, at their heart, socially relevant topics that are explored with compassion, intelligence, and dignity.

Looking for a strong female lead in an engaging medical mystery? Award-winning and USA Today Bestselling Author P.D. Workman brings you an up-and-coming Medical Examiner’s Assistant who is right up your alley.

Join Dr. Kenzie Kirsch as she uncovers mysteries, conspiracies, and thrills!

The post 2025-06-20 – New Release Currying Death first appeared on pdworkman.com.

2025-06-16 – New Release Currying Death

Suspense, science, and a strong female lead! “Currying Death” will keep you guessing until the very last page! Are you ready?

Watch my website and social media for the launch of Currying Death, book #11 in the Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thriller series.

Death was on the menu

When a man is found dead under suspicious circumstances, assistant medical examiner Kenzie Kirsch steps in to unravel the mystery. With her sharp eye for detail, Kenzie suspects foul play and dives into a chilling investigation.

As Kenzie uncovers unexpected behavioral changes, mysterious health issues, and rising tensions in the victim’s life, she realizes she’s dealing with something far more sinister than natural causes.

Blending scientific rigor with heart-pounding suspense, “Currying Death” promises an enthralling journey through forensic science and human psychology. Every clue matters and every character hides a secret in this gripping tale that will keep you hooked until the last page.

Praise for Kenzie Kirsch Medical Thrillers

 This mesmerizing tale is sure to keep you up late reading “just one more chapter” until you come to the realization that you are not going to put this book down until you have finished the very last sentence.

 I always look forward to another story in this series because the author consistently delivers timely, relevant stories peopled with believable characters that are convincingly human, complete with positive attributes as well as fears, foibles and flaws. Add in the riveting details of an assistant medical examiner’s work with the bodies of victims who succumbed to all manner of abuse, misfortune and violence, and you will invariably be in for a thrilling ride …

P.D. Workman never fails to deliver an intriguing mystery with plenty of thrills, drama, and unexpected twists that will hold your attention from start to finish. The characters are believable, with flaws and attributes that will endear them to the reader. The stories always have, at their heart, socially relevant topics that are explored with compassion, intelligence, and dignity.

Looking for a strong female lead in an engaging medical mystery? Award-winning and USA Today Bestselling Author P.D. Workman brings you an up-and-coming Medical Examiner’s Assistant who is right up your alley.

Join Dr. Kenzie Kirsch as she uncovers mysteries, conspiracies, and thrills!

The post 2025-06-16 – New Release Currying Death first appeared on pdworkman.com.