A Stirring in the North Fork

by Mark Torres

A Stirring in the North Fork is a thrilling page-turner about the brutal and unsolved murder of a woman on Long Island nearly four decades ago. Driven by an unwavering passion, Savoy Graves, an out of work attorney, reconstructs the fragmented murder case and uncovers a series of heart-wrenching and shocking truths. Worlds collide as Graves struggles to identify those responsible for the murder in this gripping and tragic tale about love, self-discovery, redemption and most of all, a quest for justice.

204 pages, Paperback

Published November 29, 2015

Reviews

[Lorenzo]

I regret getting this book. Found it in a thrift store and I should have left it there. Started out with a cliche plot straight out of a grade B horror flick. Grade school grammar is unforgivable. I couldn't finish it; it was just to painful to read. Completely bland and self serving attempt at writing. This must be the reason why it was self published. No self respecting publisher would touch it with a ten foot pen. Just proves anyone can call themselves an author no matter how terrible the writing is. Do yourself a favor and don't bother. Stick with John Grisham, James Patterson or other authors.This book is a complete mess.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this one - specifically how all the characters both past and present are shown. Also the epilogue format was the perfect way to wrap this up.

[Angie Mangino · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stirring in the North Fork
By Mark Torres
2015
Reviewed by Angie Mangino
Rating: 5 stars

Pulling readers immediately into the story, the very first paragraph introduces Maria Cruz and quickly shares the tragedy that establishes empathy for her fate and desire to learn more.

“She lamented getting home far past her daughter’s bedtime. Things will be better now, she thought. As she approached her car, she fumbled for the keys in her purse. This distracted her from noticing the hulking figure rushing up behind her. A sharp blow to the back of her skull rendered her immediately unconscious.”

In a bold, but efficient switch to first person by the author, readers now get to know Savoy Graves in the second chapter, relating to him more personally as they begin the journey with him that leads to his pursuit of justice for Maria.

“I had it all…or at least I thought I did. Being accepted into the New York office of Powell & Mason, the world’s most prestigious law firm, with a cushy salary of $175,000 per year, had me beaming with thoughts of lavish lifestyle...It is September, 2009.”

How would Savoy get involved in the unsolved murder case of Maria? What part will Lola Cruz play in pursuit of justice for a mother she never knew? Who murdered Maria so brutally, and why? Why did this hardworking housekeeper’s murder become an unsolved cold case?

Excellent characterizations, sense of place, and realistic dialogue keep readers absorbed each step of the way to a satisfying conclusion.

Angie Mangino currently works as a freelance journalist and book reviewer, additionally offering authors personalized critique service of unpublished manuscripts. http://www.angiemangino.com

[Moumita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good! It's a fast paced, page turning crime/detective novel. It is thoughtfully written yet manages to maintain a fast pace, and also manages to have a little bit of everything, from crime, passion, humor and suspense without being encumbered by anything. Being the author's first novel, I can honestly say I that devoured this novel. Great job Mr. Torres!!

[Eléna-Margarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suspenseful and a page turner that serves up justice nicely with a wonderful twist.