Biba Pearce's Blog, page 2
December 30, 2024
Crafting Cold-Blooded Crime Fiction
November 5, 2024
The Modern Detective
Cold Reckoning: A Chilling New Thriller Blending Scandinavian Noir and Psychological Suspense
September 19, 2024
The Serial Murderer
Rough Justice Press Release
June 23, 2024
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.
June 17, 2024
📚The Marlow Murders Wins Best Crime Fiction at the National Indie Excellence Awards! 🥳
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:
Read the official press release here.
June 12, 2024
Writing Rough Justice
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
March 14, 2024
Behind the scenes: Kenzie and Reid
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:
February 18, 2024
Behind the Glitz
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.
