Carol Potenza

Beautifully written with a riveting plot and a richly drawn, diverse cast of characters, Hearts of the Missing is the mesmerizing debut from 2017 Tony Hillerman Prize recipient Carol Potenza. When a young woman linked to a list of missing Fire-Sky tribal members commits suicide, Pueblo Police Sergeant Nicky Matthews is assigned to the case. As the investigation unfolds, she uncovers a threat that strikes at the very heart of what it means to be a Fire-Sky Native: victims chosen and murdered because of their genetic makeup. But these deaths are not just about a life taken. In a vengeful twist, the killer ensures the spirits of those targeted will wander forever, lost to their family, their People, and their ancestors. When those closest to Nicky are put in jeopardy, she must be willing to sacrifice everything—her career, her life, even her soul—to save the people she is sworn to protect.

A Mystery

Hearts of the Missing

Sting of Lies

Cozy, hard-boiled, or historical? Is writing a mystery novel a mystery? Crafting a solid mystery has its own requirements: Story beats. They're the keys to delivering a satisfying read and we're letting everyone in on the secret. This sassy chat (in book form) presented by award-winning authors will help you execute a story that works. It's a guideline for assembling clues, criminals, and conclusions in your own unique, "perfectly-poisonous" blend. Whether your book is a carefully plotted caper or a crime of opportunity or something in between, join our covert operation as we demystify the mystery beats.This book is for you, mystery writer.

How to Write a Killer Book

Demystifying the Beats

From the award-winning author of Hearts of the Missing and the Nicky Matthew Mysteries seriesTHE THIRD WARRIORAncient prophecies and murderWhen Fire-Sky Pueblo Police Sergeant Nicky Matthews is lured by an eerie spirit to the body of a missing cowboy, it should've been a cut and dry case-the New Mexico summer heat must have driven the poor guy to cool off in an isolated water tank with tragic consequences. But as Nicky investigates the cowboy's erratic last days, his death turns more and more sinister.Betrayals close to homeSomeone in the Fire-Sky police department is warning Albuquerque's most vicious drug gang of undercover operations on the Pueblo. Begging Nicky to help him find the snitch, her former lover-and New Mexico's State Police Chief-barrels back into her life, endangering her growing relationship with Conservation Agent Franco Martinez. But when the trail leads back to her best friend, Nicky is torn between her loyalties and her job.A stalking deathThe two investigations collide as fires erupt on and off the Pueblo. With the tension, heat, and body count rising, Nicky's actions take a reckless and dangerous turn, her behavior and emotions driven by elements outside of her control. She soon realizes the spirit who led her to the first body only appears to those about to die.And lately, she's seen him a lot.

Carol Potenza

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