October Newsletter -Because Every Story Deserves the Truth
Hello Friends
I’m so thrilled you’re here! Shadows Over Sumter officially dropped on August 28, and I had to wait until the 29th to order my own copy—talk about suspense. If you’ve been following along with me, I hope you’ve grabbed yours too.
When you finish (or even as you’re reading), come back to my site and tell me what you think. I’d love to know which reenactment you believe could have truly happened, based on the evidence in the appendix and under my Case Files tab.
Shadows Over Sumter Progress and latest news
Although Shadows Over Sumter is now live, my investigation continues. I’m still pursuing new leads and reviewing any emerging evidence that might shed further light on the 1968 death of Francis Michael Brickley. Each discovery adds another layer to the story, and I remain committed to uncovering the truth wherever it leads. The early reviews have been encouraging — readers appreciate the depth of research and the emotional honesty behind the narrative. At my recent book signing, one reader suggested turning this into a series or writing a follow‑up volume, which I’m seriously considering as the investigation evolves.
Interesting tidbit about the Sumter Coroner in 1968
While reviewing Sumter County records from 1968, I stumbled across a curious detail about the coroner. On paper, his job was straightforward: determine causes of death and sign off on reports. But the more I dug, the more I realized his role reached far beyond the morgue.
He moved quietly between law enforcement, grieving families, and the courthouse, often shaping how a death was officially remembered. That kind of quiet influence can change the course of an investigation—and it definitely caught my storyteller’s eye.
A Moment in the Present - Once Upon a Crime, Smithfield, NC
On Saturday September 26, I had the joy of meeting readers face‑to‑face at Once Upon a Crime in Smithfield, NC. Between the shelves of mysteries and true‑crime classics, we gathered to talk about Shadows Over Sumter, the investigation, and the unanswered questions that still echo from 1968.
The conversations were thoughtful, curious, and full of energy — a reminder that history comes alive when people engage with it. Thank you to everyone who stopped by, asked questions, and shared their own stories. Moments like these give meaning to the work and keep the search for truth moving forward.
A little tidbit about my Writing
Let me introduce you to Gus, one of my favorite fictional characters in Shadows Over Sumter. Gus is Mike’s handler at the CIA—the steady voice in his ear who makes sure Mike follows the rules and doesn’t go too far off script. He’s a seasoned CIA operative, the person Mike turns to when he needs information, backup, or a way out of trouble. In my mind, Gus is always trying to keep Mike safe, even when Mike does what many men do in thrillers—push the limits and bend the rules. You’ll see Gus appear in both reenactments, quietly shaping events from behind the scenes.
Finding Meaning in the History
1968 was a year of upheaval and transformation — a turning point when the world seemed to fracture and reform all at once. From the Tet Offensive in Vietnam to the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, history was rewriting itself in real time. Amid the chaos, quiet stories like Mike Brickley’s remind us that history isn’t just headlines — it’s the lives caught in their shadow.
Blogs are released every Tuesday
Every Tuesday, a new post dives deeper into the mystery behind Shadows Over Sumter. From missing reports to conflicting signatures, each entry unpacks another layer of the investigation — inviting readers to weigh evidence, challenge assumptions, and share their theories.
Follow along as the case unfolds, one clue at a time.
Would you like to be part of a virtual book club?
I am excited to share these new findings with my favorite readers. Share your thoughts with me below.