Saturday, May 11, 2024

Q&A with Geri Dreiling, author of THE POISON DART

 


TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW BOOK, THE POISON DART.

 

In this novel, reporter Debbie Bradley investigates a fentanyl overdose death. Through her investigation, she uncovers a complex web of family secrets and the surprising reach of drug-trafficking cartels into the Midwest. The story is told with empathy and reveals shocking connections between the characters. This is the second novel in the Debbie Bradley Mystery Series, and it continues to explore the personal relationships of Debbie Bradley, Chase Laclede, Beth Hughes, and Detective Flannery.

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE TITLE FOR THIS BOOK?

The Poison Dart has a double meaning. It is the name of the drug cartel at the center of the story, as well as a symbol of the needle involved in the overdose death.

WHAT DRIVES THE CHARACTERS IN YOUR STORY and HOW DO THEY GROW?

The novel features a diverse set of characters, each explored through perspective chapters that delve into their past and motivations. Here are a few noteworthy examples:

Debbie is a determined young journalist driven by ambition and a strong sense of justice who often grapples with the conflict between personal ambition and moral integrity.

Macie Holloway is haunted by the memory of her dead best friend, struggling with grief, guilt, and fear, all of which shape her decisions.

José Rodrigo “J.R.” sought a better life for his family but found himself ensnared by the grip of the cartel, trapped in circumstances beyond his control.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS A PIVOTAL SCENE IN YOUR BOOK AND WHY?

In the pivotal scene, the main characters converge in a single location. The paths that lead them to this moment are as unique as each character. The outcome of their lives hangs in the balance, depending on their choices during this crucial moment.

HOW IS YOUR BOOK DIFFERENT THAN ANY OTHER BOOK IN THIS GENRE?

The Poison Dart is a gripping crime thriller that treats the characters and subject matter with humanity rather than sensationalizing them.

IF YOUR BOOK WERE TO BE MADE INTO A MOVIE, WHO WOULD BE YOUR CAST?

Debbie Bradley: Saoirse Ronan

Beth Hughes: Laura Linney, Kate Winslet or Laura Dern

Chase Laclede: Jharrel Jerome

Detective Daniel Flannery: Jon Hamm

Captain Jack Flannery: Jeff Bridges

José Rodrigo: Michael Mando

Macie Holloway: Jenna Ortega

Caleb and Connor Webb (Twins): Timothée Chalamet

WHAT CRITERIA DID YOU USE WHEN SELECTING THE COVER FOR YOUR BOOK?

I'm lucky. My husband is an excellent cover designer, a beta reader, and a fantastic listener. He understands the mood and emotional resonance I wanted the cover to convey. I tried to capture not only Debbie's voyage through the darkness but also that of many characters. Despite the darkness, a glimmer of light subtly splits the art into a dart.  

WAS THERE A MESSAGE IN YOUR BOOK THAT YOU WERE TRYING TO CONVEY?

As someone who worked in a prosecutor's office, as a criminal defense lawyer, and as an investigative journalist, I've met people from many walks of life. Sometimes, they've made bad decisions that landed them in trouble. Others have found themselves in a difficult situation despite their innocence. I aimed to explore life's nuance and complexity while crafting a compelling thriller. 

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE AS A WRITER?

Carving out uninterrupted time to focus. I’ve found that writing for the first few hours of the morning to be my most productive.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR NEW WRITERS?

Read. Read. Read. And devise a writing schedule that works for you. When you miss a day because of, you know, Life, forgive yourself then reset and resume.

DO YOU HAVE A BLOG OR WEBSITE READERS CAN VISIT FOR UPDATES, EVENTS AND SPECIAL OFFERS?

www.geridreiling.com

 

 

THE POISON DART is Available on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/Poison-Dart-Bradley-Mystery-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B0CR9JSKF9/

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