Category: After the Verdict

AFTER THE VERDICT: THE SUPERNATURAL FACT OR FICTION

Is the supernatural fact or fiction? Angels, demons, ghosts/spirits, the Force, God…anything that cannot be explained by science or the laws of nature. Don’t we all in one way or another believe in the supernatural? Books, movies, and stories abound. How many of you remember sharing ghost stories around the campfire?

around the campfire

camp fire, stories, fun, laughter

Just look at some of the most popular television shows, both past and present — Touched by an Angel, Poltergeist, Game of Thrones … the list can go on and on. Prior to the political campaigns, the news was fraught with stories of successful exorcisms and exorcisms gone bad. Numerous reports of hauntings and sightings by ghost busters made headlines.

It makes for great marketing potential. The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, featured as one of the most haunted hotels in the country, inspired the setting for my book, After the Verdict.

the stanley hotel

Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, CO, wedding, wedding planner, books, Hidden Bloodlines, wedding budget, Stanley Hotel, Christmas, Christmas wedding, budget, checklist, timeline, organization, organization tips, library, military discount, veterans, savings, cost savings, Our Lady of the Mountains, Estes Park, Colorado, University of Colorado, photographer, videographer, Laura Grace Petersen, Jackson Dorfman
The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado

It started with a weekend adventure at the Stanley Hotel for our wedding anniversary and we were definitely in for a treat.

wedding

At the registration desk, a group of ghost busters, replete with the necessary equipment joined us. Their excitement was contagious as they discussed what ghosts they hoped to detect as well as when and where it would all start. We were even invited to join them. Even though we declined their kind invitation, we heard them in the halls outside of our room trying to detect a spirit seen on a ladder going to the roof.

Although they shared their disappointment with us the next day, it did not stop them from planning their next visit. They just knew the next visit would be THE visit.

supernatural, fog, night, writing, publishing, story, fiction, novel, mistakes, writing mistakes, Thyme for Writers, journey, Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado, agents, editors, craft, skills, writers conference, tools, titles
The Supernatural – Fact or Fiction? Night Fog …

Solicitations for stories on miracles, angels, and other unexplainable happenings occur on a regular basis. I have received such solicitations more times than I can count. Many have either personally experienced miracles or know someone who has. I have.

What do you believe?

Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available on Amazon at:  https://amzn.to/4a7UVOv

A missing groom, a murdered attorney, a massive snowstorm—what else can go wrong with what was supposed to be a storybook wedding?

After the Verdict

Gutsy Colorado lawyer Briana Bertelli has just successfully prosecuted a serial killer…or has she? Betrayed in previous relationships, she’s vowed to remain single and dependent on no one but herself. All goes according to plan until her best friend’s wedding rehearsal.

Highly decorated, retired Special Forces veteran Kale McLaren has seen much death and is ready to experience a new life.

Now the Chief Operating Officer of a global special ops organization, he’s looking forward to a relaxing weekend at a friend’s wedding. The last thing he expects is to be brought face-to-face with death and the most intriguing woman he has ever met … Briana.

With the highest of stakes and time running out, can Briana and Kale combine forces to discover what happened after the verdict?

You do not need to read the first book in the series, Search Beyond Lies, in order to enjoy the second. You can find the first in the series, Search Beyond Lies at : https://amzn.to/3ueVmTO

Search Beyond Lies is a work of fiction, inspired by true events.

On July 5, 2018, Brian Perri was reported missing on Mount Meeker, one of the most dangerous mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. A selfie revealed his last known location was the summit. Search Beyond is a work of fiction, whose inspiration lies in a rare type of friendship J.C. Fischer and Kimo McEwen had with Brian where they put their lives on hold and jeopardized their safety and well-being to search for him.

The search was covered by news media far and wide. J.C.’s pleas for volunteers brought in many from along the entire Front Range. Why did so many come forward? It was J.C. and Kimo’s care, concern, persistence, loyalty, and dedication to finding Brian that exemplified true friendship—and that is a contagious type of friendship experienced by very few.

© 2024 Karen VDH Fischer

AFTER THE VERDICT: THE HOTEL FACT OR FICTION – Part 2: The Infamous Room 217 and the Ghost of Mrs. Wilson

The Stanley Hotel’s Room 217 is one of the most popular rooms in the hotel, after all, the ghost of Mrs. Wilson will keep your clothes nice and tidy. Four presidents and Stephen King were among the many prominent guests who stayed in that room. Although Stephen King did not pen The Shining there, his stay did inspire it.

Mrs. wilson

Stanley Hotel, Room 217, Estes Park, Colorado
The Stanley Hotel Room 217

Who is Mrs. Wilson? She was the chief chambermaid in 1911. On the day the hotel opened for the season, the hydroelectric plant went down. By the way, this hotel was the first hotel to have electricity. Mrs. Wilson was lighting the gas lamps when she was almost killed. Acetylene was pumped into the rooms, and in Room 217 there happened to be a gas leak.

Room 217, Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado
Room 217 – Stanley Hotel Estes Park, CO

When Mrs. Wilson went into the bathroom, it blew out the front of the hotel. She was blown through the floor into the MacGregor Room and survived. Almost forty years to the day, she died of a heart attack in that room. According to the tour guide, Mrs. Wilson is a permanent visitor here who will fold and put away your clothes.

Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado, Room 217, Bear-Clawed Tub
The Stanley Hotel Room 217 Bear-Clawed Tub

our stay

My husband and I had the opportunity to stay in that room. Except for the bear-clawed tub and the view, it struck me as an ordinary room with an extraordinary history. Shortly after arriving, we had a few visitors just wanting to see it and take photos. We took a few photos of our own. One visitor who was clearly absent was Mrs. Wilson. I had to fold my own clothes and keep them nice and tidy.

You may find some similarities between Room 217 and the honeymoon suite described in my book, After the Verdict https://amzn.to/4a7UVOv. Check out Chapter 2 of the book and let me know what you think!

Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available on Amazon at:  https://amzn.to/4a7UVOv

A missing groom, a murdered attorney, a massive snowstorm—what else can go wrong with what was supposed to be a storybook wedding?

After the Verdict

Gutsy Colorado lawyer Briana Bertelli has just successfully prosecuted a serial killer…or has she? Betrayed in previous relationships, she’s vowed to remain single and dependent on no one but herself. All goes according to plan until her best friend’s wedding rehearsal

Highly decorated, retired Special Forces veteran Kale McLaren has seen much death and is ready to experience a new life.

Now the Chief Operating Officer of a global special ops organization, he’s looking forward to a relaxing weekend at a friend’s wedding. The last thing he expects is to be brought face-to-face with death and the most intriguing woman he has ever met … Briana. With the highest of stakes and time running out, can Briana and Kale combine forces to discover what happened after the verdict? Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available at:  https://amzn.to/4a7UVO

You do not need to read the first book in the series, Search Beyond Lies, in order to enjoy the second. You can find the first in the series, Search Beyond Lies at : https://amzn.to/3ueVmTO

Search Beyond Lies is a work of fiction, inspired by true events.

Search Beyond Lies

On July 5, 2018, Brian Perri was reported missing on Mount Meeker, one of the most dangerous mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. A selfie revealed his last known location was the summit. Search Beyond is a work of fiction, whose inspiration lies in a rare type of friendship J.C. Fischer and Kimo McEwen had with Brian where they put their lives on hold and jeopardized their safety and well-being to search for him.

The search was covered by news media far and wide. J.C.’s pleas for volunteers brought in many from along the entire Front Range. Why did so many come forward? It was J.C. and Kimo’s care, concern, persistence, loyalty, and dedication to finding Brian that exemplified true friendship—and that is a contagious type of friendship experienced by very few.

© 2024 Karen VDH Fischer

AFTER THE VERDICT: THE HOTEL FACT OR FICTION – Part 1

Although the Preston Hotel, is a fictitious hotel, its inspiration lies in the historic Stanley Hotel. The mysterious Stanley Hotel touts itself as a hotel “7500 feet above ordinary.” Listed on the Historic Registry and featured as one of the most haunted hotels in America, I definitely agree. My husband and I had the pleasure of staying there on several occasions

Of interest

The Stanley Hotel attracts a variety of guests from all over the world, offers unusual tours, and its décor takes you back in time. There are:

  • guests including frequent visitors from various “ghost buster” groups,
  • ghost tours,
  • museum pieces, and
  • the fact that it inspired the setting for movies, a television series, and Stephen King’s book The Shining, as well as my own – After the Verdict — It’s a fun place to visit.
Stanley Hotel - Historic - Pool Table
The Stanley Hotel — Pool Table

They even offer a Ghost Adventure Package. What would F.O. Stanley think? I wonder…

F.O. Stanley

F.O. Stanley, famous for his Steamer among other things, moved west because of his health. He suffered from symptoms of consumption and found reprieve after he arrived in Estes Park, Colorado, the gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park. Excited about his health benefits, he wanted to build a hotel replete with all the eastern amenities he found the area lacking in.

Original Stanley Vehicle

He bought 160 acres from Lord Dunraven (more on him later) and initially built the main building of the Stanley Hotel. When it opened in 1909, it was the first hotel in the area to offer posh amenities like electricity, telephones, bathrooms en suite, and automobiles. It attracted visitors from all over, especially those who searched for a similar reprieve for their health.

The Stanley Hotel – Otis Elevator

Stanley, in some form or another, helped develop the town. By 1917, the municipality was official with civic organizations, a power plant, and water works. Together with his wife Flora, he worked to create the Rocky Mountain National Park, probably his most lasting legacy. His efforts went a long way toward his friendship with Kyle Mills, a renowned naturalist.

By the 1970’s, this grand hotel was no longer grand. Faded by the wear and tear of time, it earned the reputation of being haunted. But for Stephen King’s stay which inspired his best-selling novel, The Shining, the hotel might have ceased to exist. In the next post on the Stanley Hotel, we’ll explore one of the most popular rooms in the hotel — the one frequented by many prominent guests and the ghost of Mrs. Wilson.

What historic hotels have you visited?

Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available on Amazon at:  https://amzn.to/4a7UVOv

A missing groom, a murdered attorney, a massive snowstorm—what else can go wrong with what was supposed to be a storybook wedding?

After the Verdict

Gutsy Colorado lawyer Briana Bertelli has just successfully prosecuted a serial killer…or has she? Betrayed in previous relationships, she’s vowed to remain single and dependent on no one but herself. All goes according to plan until her best friend’s wedding rehearsal

Highly decorated, retired Special Forces veteran Kale McLaren has seen much death and is ready to experience a new life.

Now the Chief Operating Officer of a global special ops organization, he’s looking forward to a relaxing weekend at a friend’s wedding. The last thing he expects is to be brought face-to-face with death and the most intriguing woman he has ever met … Briana. With the highest of stakes and time running out, can Briana and Kale combine forces to discover what happened after the verdict? Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available at:  https://amzn.to/4a7UVO

You do not need to read the first book in the series, Search Beyond Lies, in order to enjoy the second. You can find the first in the series, Search Beyond Lies at : https://amzn.to/3ueVmTO

Search Beyond Lies is a work of fiction, inspired by true events.

Search Beyond Lies

On July 5, 2018, Brian Perri was reported missing on Mount Meeker, one of the most dangerous mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. A selfie revealed his last known location was the summit. Search Beyond is a work of fiction, whose inspiration lies in a rare type of friendship J.C. Fischer and Kimo McEwen had with Brian where they put their lives on hold and jeopardized their safety and well-being to search for him.

The search was covered by news media far and wide. J.C.’s pleas for volunteers brought in many from along the entire Front Range. Why did so many come forward? It was J.C. and Kimo’s care, concern, persistence, loyalty, and dedication to finding Brian that exemplified true friendship—and that is a contagious type of friendship experienced by very few.

© 2024 Karen VDH Fischer

AFTER THE VERDICT – FACT OR FICTION INTRODUCTION

After the Verdict has been released! It is Book Two in the Search & Recovery International Series. If you haven’t read the first in the series, Search Beyond Lies, there’s no better time than the present, especially since it is available for .99 on Kindle Countdown until January 22 and is free if you have Kindle Unlimited.

This article is the first of the Fact or Fiction articles for After the Verdict and will give you a general overview. In future articles I will delve into some of the more fascinating, eye-popping stories and secrets.

the location

Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, CO, wedding, wedding planner, books, Hidden Bloodlines, wedding budget, Stanley Hotel, Christmas, Christmas wedding, budget, checklist, timeline, organization, organization tips, library, military discount, veterans, savings, cost savings, Our Lady of the Mountains, Estes Park, Colorado, University of Colorado, photographer, videographer, Laura Grace Petersen, Jackson Dorfman

Although Eustis Park and the Preston Hotel, are fictitious places, the Preston Hotel is inspired by the historic Stanley Hotel, registered as the second most haunted hotel in the country, and is located in Estes Park, Colorado.

I have stayed in the hotel many times, including in the infamous Room 217, but I have not seen any ghosts… yet.

The CharacterS

The modern characters in this story are fictitious. However, some of the historical characters lived and are a part of Estes Park’s history and folklore. I’ll share the fascinating stories behind some of these characters, so stay tuned.

Gloria’s poster dog is real. He was my family dog adopted from Poodle Rescue and has his own unique story. Although the Horse Whisperer is an entirely fictitious character, the Ute Indians were a tribe native to the area. Their medicine men participated in vision quests. Stay tuned for even more interesting stories!

I love stories. Growing up, I can’t even begin to tell you how often I got into trouble for being engrossed in stories…when I should have been doing chores. Oops… fortunately, I have been forgiven.

My next article will take a look at the Stanley Hotel, which touts itself as a hotel “7500 feet above ordinary.” It is, in more ways than one.

Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available on Amazon at:  https://amzn.to/4a7UVOv

A missing groom, a murdered attorney, a massive snowstorm—what else can go wrong with what was supposed to be a storybook wedding?

Gutsy Colorado lawyer Briana Bertelli has just successfully prosecuted a serial killer…or has she? Betrayed in previous relationships, she’s vowed to remain single and dependent on no one but herself. All goes according to plan until her best friend’s wedding rehearsal

Highly decorated, retired Special Forces veteran Kale McLaren has seen much death and is ready to experience a new life.

Now the Chief Operating Officer of a global special ops organization, he’s looking forward to a relaxing weekend at a friend’s wedding. The last thing he expects is to be brought face-to-face with death and the most intriguing woman he has ever met … Briana.

With the highest of stakes and time running out, can Briana and Kale combine forces to discover what happened after the verdict? Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available for preorder at:  https://amzn.to/4a7UVOv

You do not need to read the first book in the series, Search Beyond Lies, in order to enjoy the second. You can find the first in the series, Search Beyond Lies at : https://amzn.to/3ueVmTO

Search Beyond Lies is a work of fiction, inspired by true events.

On July 5, 2018, Brian Perri was reported missing on Mount Meeker, one of the most dangerous mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. A selfie revealed his last known location was the summit. Search Beyond is a work of fiction, whose inspiration lies in a rare type of friendship J.C. Fischer and Kimo McEwen had with Brian where they put their lives on hold and jeopardized their safety and well-being to search for him.

The search was covered by news media far and wide. J.C.’s pleas for volunteers brought in many from along the entire Front Range. Why did so many come forward? It was J.C. and Kimo’s care, concern, persistence, loyalty, and dedication to finding Brian that exemplified true friendship—and that is a contagious type of friendship experienced by very few.

© 2024 Karen VDH Fischer

Handling Life’s Transitions as We Move into the New Year

You know how it goes. You’re cruising along in life, and suddenly the road takes a sharp turn. Perhaps the road signs warned you. Perhaps it came by surprise. In either case, life will never be the same. Consider the roads you have traveled. No doubt you’re facing circumstances today that you hadn’t expected to face 5 years ago, 5 months ago, or even 5 days ago, but here you are. Perhaps you or your loved one has health problems, or you have become a new parent, and you not only have a new little cherub to care for, but your body has changed! It will never be the same, or so you think. Perhaps you have lost a loved one, lost your job or spouse, or are facing other transitions in your life.

The last Christmas with Brian Perri

There are so many life transitions and issues that we must cope with, that if l were to touch on all of them, they would fill multiple books. Instead, Handling Life’s Transitions as We Move Into the New Year is the first in a series that will provide an opportunity for you to reflect on 2023, the transitions you are facing, and hopefully provide general guidelines on getting through them as we move into the new year and beyond. You’ll notice a common theme – controlling the controllable.

The Snowball Effect

If you’re a writer, whether published or not, joining other writers in a writers’ group is highly encouraged. An article written by Amanda Cabot, Thyme with Other Writers is an enlightening article that addresses the importance of being a part of a writers’ group.

Writers' group, writing retreat
Writing Retreat with some members of our writers’ group.

I had been a part of a phenomenal group of writers for 14 years when difficult life transitions hit a number of its members and the group dissolved. This particular group was special and was a source of inspiration and motivation for me. These life transitions snowballed into mine.

controlling the controllable

To get through these transitions and my own, I looked at what I can control – my time, efforts, attitude, and maintaining important relationships–and focused on controlling the controllable.

Although we no longer meet as a group, I have maintained special relationships with a few. These special relationships were the impetus for the motivation, support, and invaluable assistance I received in getting After the Verdict, Book Two in the Search & Recovery International Series, ready for preorder with a January 11, 2024 release date. Thank you, Amanda Cabot, Leslie Sartor, and Jane Choate, for your support, prayers, and the sharing of your invaluable expertise and skill.

What transitions have you gone through in 2023? What can you control?

A missing groom, a murdered attorney, a massive snowstorm—what else can go wrong with what was supposed to be a storybook wedding?

Gutsy Colorado lawyer Briana Bertelli has just successfully prosecuted a serial killer…or has she? Betrayed in previous relationships, she’s vowed to remain single and dependent on no one but herself. All goes according to plan until her best friend’s wedding rehearsal.

Highly decorated, retired Special Forces veteran Kale McLaren has seen much death and is ready to experience a new life.

Now the Chief Operating Officer of a global special ops organization, he’s looking forward to a relaxing weekend at a friend’s wedding. The last thing he expects is to be brought face-to-face with death and the most intriguing woman he has ever met … Briana.

With the highest of stakes and time running out, can Briana and Kale combine forces to discover what happened after the verdict?

You do not need to read the first book in the series, Search Beyond Lies, in order to enjoy the second.

Search Beyond Lies is a work of fiction, inspired by true events.

A suspense thriller with a dash of romance, Search Beyond Lies tells the story

of the search for a missing scientist, a top-secret project, and a ticking clock. Desperate to find his friend and mentor, James Frankel knows that only former Army Ranger, Charlie Sommer can help him. But how can he trust a woman who’s keeping secrets?

As a former Army Ranger, Charlie Sommers garnered the reputation of having the highest search and rescue success rate, but she’s plagued by the one she left behind. Now she’s on the verge of an exciting new beginning as a part of Search & Recovery International where her secrets are safe. There’s only one problem: the new assignment will take her back to Colorado and the loss that still haunts her.

The clock is ticking down. With their lives–and their hearts–at risk, Charlie and James join forces in an attempt to save the scientist and the world from catastrophe while finding the truth beyond lies in this action-packed thriller. It is available at https://amzn.to/3ueVmTO.

RECOMMENDED BOOKS – THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

Good books are the gifts that keep on giving. With the holidays upon us, I thought this was the perfect time to provide a few recommendations to place under the tree if you have one, and if not, to share with a friend to show you care.

The christmas spirit

To get you into that Christmas spirit, there are two books I recommend:

Tick Tock Dead, A Jenna Hart Mystery by L.A. Sartor

If you enjoy cozy mysteries, L.A. has just launched a great new series with this book. I’ve read it and highly recommend it.

It’s Christmas and nestled in a valley between two towering Colorado mountain ranges, the old mining town turned uber chic ski resort of Angelcroft is in a battle for its soul.

And now the battle has turned deadly.

Lifelong resident Jenna Hart is definitely not sleuth material. In fact, she’s a custom jeweler who loves working with diamonds and brilliant gems, and this is her busiest season ever.

But now her one goal is to find out who murdered her friend.

Enlisting the help of those who know the town’s secrets — even as they seem to hide their own — Jenna digs deep only to find the dire warnings from handsome newcomer, police Detective Derek Tripp, that she could be risking her own life are prophetic.

Nevertheless, nothing and nobody will stop Jenna from finding the truth.Tick Tock Dead is the first book in the Jenna Hart Mystery series. If you enjoy small town mysteries populated with fascinating characters whose lives are far more complicated than what they seem on the surface, join Jenna for an adventure in the charming mountain town of Angelcroft.

Check out L.A. Sartor’s other books at: lesliesartor.com

Christmas Witness Survival by Jane M. Choate

If you can’t pass up a romantic suspense, you won’t want to miss Christmas Witness Survival – a real page turner.

Seeking ranch refuge…


in order to survive

Fleeing after discovering her fiancé is a murderer, Hailey Davenport thinks nowhere is safe this Christmas. Trusting another man is the last thing Hailey wants, but she reluctantly finds refuge in the back of Michael “Chap” Chapman’s truck. The security expert won’t let her face hired gunmen alone—even when danger follows them to his ranch. With enemies closing in, keeping Hailey safe might be the last thing Chap does…

Historical Romance

Against the Wind by Amanda Cabot is a must read, especially if you’re an historical romance enthusiast. Even if you’re not, I highly recommend this book – I couldn’t put it down! Against the Wind is book 2 in the Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing Series. If you haven’t read the first, After the Shadows, I recommend you pick up both!

Amanda Cabot, Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing, historical romance

Doctor-in-training Louisa Vaughn has no intention of remaining in Sweetwater Crossing. She’s just there for a few days to help a friend. But she can’t abandon the injured man she finds at the side of the road. Until his broken leg heals, she’ll serve as the town’s doctor and midwife. She may not be fully qualified yet, but surely she’s better than nothing. Josh Porter’s plans to win his grandfather’s challenge and fulfill his father’s final wish to gain full control of the family business hit a roadblock when he breaks his leg. But his enforced stay in

Sweetwater Crossing gives him new ideas about the expansion of the company into new territory–ideas Louisa could help turn into reality.

If only the town were more accepting of Louisa’s talents! Someone is determined to convince her to abandon her dream of healing others. Can Josh help her uncover the person behind the threats before it’s too late? And is there any future for them together when neither of them plans to stay?

You can find out about Amanda’s other books at amandacabot.com

romantic suspense thriller

Book Two in my Search & Recovery International Series, After the Verdict, is available for preorder. 

A missing groom, a murdered attorney, a massive snowstorm—what else can go wrong with what was supposed to be a storybook wedding?

Gutsy Colorado lawyer Briana Bertelli has just successfully prosecuted a serial killer…or has she? Betrayed in previous relationships, she’s vowed to remain single and dependent on no one but herself. All goes according to plan until her best friend’s wedding rehearsal.

Highly decorated, retired Special Forces veteran Kale McLaren has seen much death and is ready to experience a new life.

Now the Chief Operating Officer of a global special ops organization, he’s looking forward to a relaxing weekend at a friend’s wedding. The last thing he expects is to be brought face-to-face with death and the most intriguing woman he has ever met … Briana.

With the highest of stakes and time running out, can Briana and Kale combine forces to discover what happened after the verdict?

You do not need to read the first book in the series, Search Beyond Lies, in order to enjoy the second.

Search Beyond Lies is a work of fiction, inspired by true events.

On July 5, 2018, Brian Perri was reported missing on Mount Meeker, one of the most dangerous mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. A selfie revealed his last known location was the summit. Search Beyond is a work of fiction, whose inspiration lies in a rare type of friendship J.C. Fischer and Kimo McEwen had with Brian where they put their lives on hold and jeopardized their safety and well-being to search for him.

The search was covered by news media far and wide. J.C.’s pleas for volunteers brought in many from along the entire Front Range. Why did so many come forward? It was J.C. and Kimo’s care, concern, persistence, loyalty, and dedication to finding Brian that exemplified true friendship—and that is a contagious type of friendship experienced by very few.

If you’re interested in gifting any of these books, just click the title, the link is embedded. Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! Happy New Year!

COVER REVEAL – After the Verdict

I am excited to reveal the cover for Book 2 in the Search & Recovery International Series – After the Verdict! We are well on our way to ensure a release date in 2023! If you’re interested in knowing what this book is about, keep reading…

The Rocky Mountains

After the Verdict – Sneak Preview

A missing groom, a murdered attorney, a massive snowstorm – what else can go wrong with what was supposed to be a storybook wedding?

Gutsy Colorado lawyer Briana Bertelli has just successfully prosecuted a serial killer…or has she? Betrayed in previous relationships, she’s vowed to remain single and dependent on no one but herself. All goes according to plan until her best friend’s wedding rehearsal.

Highly decorated, retired Special Forces veteran Kale McLaren has seen much death and is ready to experience a new life. Now the Chief Operating Officer of a global special ops organization, he’s looking forward to a relaxing weekend at a friend’s wedding. The last thing he expects is to be brought face-to-face with death and the most intriguing woman he has ever met … Briana.

With the highest of stakes and time running out, can Briana and Kale combine forces to discover what happened after the verdict?

Have I intrigued you? I certainly hope so!

The Artist Behind the Cover

L.A. Sartor, Christmas, Best-Selling Author, job, goal, burnout, Prince of Granola, The Chunky Method Handbook, Thyme for Writers

In my last article, I introduced the amazing artist, L.A. Sartor – a true Renaissance woman. She is not only a creative genius when it comes to creating covers, but her books are true page turners. Check out her books with more amazing covers and stories at: L.A. Sartor.

Fact or Fiction

I’ve blended fact and fiction to create this book, just as I did with the first of the SRI series, Search Beyond Lies. If you haven’t read it, now might be the right time, while you’re waiting for this book to be released.

Stay tuned!

Let me know what you think of this cover!

© 2023 Karen VDH Fischer

A suspense thriller with a dash of romance, Search Beyond Lies tells the story

suspense thriller, romantic suspense, Colorado, Rocky Mountains, action
Search Beyond Lies, Book One in the Search & Recovery International Series

of the search for a missing scientist, a top-secret project, and a ticking clock. Desperate to find his friend and mentor, James Frankel knows that only former Army Ranger, Charlie Sommer can help him. But how can he trust a woman who’s keeping secrets?

As a former Army Ranger, Charlie Sommers garnered the reputation of having the highest search and rescue success rate, but she’s plagued by the one she left behind. Now she’s on the verge of an exciting new beginning as a part of Search & Recovery International where her secrets are safe. There’s only one problem: the new assignment will take her back to Colorado and the loss that still haunts her.

The clock is ticking down. With their lives–and their hearts–at risk, Charlie and James join forces in an attempt to save the scientist and the world from catastrophe while finding the truth beyond lies in this action-packed thriller. It is available at https://amzn.to/3ueVmTO.

Search & Recovery International – What’s Next?

Today’s article will give you a sneak peek into what is next. The last article, Search Beyond Lies: Fact or Fiction – The Scientist, is the last fact or fiction article for Search Beyond Lies unless I receive specific questions or requests. If you have one, feel free to ask!

Book 2 in the Series

After the Verdict is the second book in the Search & Recovery International Series. I am excited to announce that it will be ready for release later this year. I recently received the final edits, and I’m happy to say it’s definitely in the home stretch.

K.V. Fischer

The Characters

The hero in After the Verdict is Kale McLaren, the Chief Operating Officer for SRI. You will see a few of the characters you met in Search Beyond Lies and meet a few more you will love, and of course those you will love to hate.

You will meet Briana Bertelli, a gutsy Colorado attorney who successfully prosecuted a serial killer – or did she?

The Cover

The cover is still in process, but I am excited by its development. The artist, L.A. Sartor, created the cover for Search Beyond Lies and has assured me that she will create the covers for the entire series. She is an author in her own right and a true Renaissance woman. Her books are page-turners you won’t be able to put down. You can visit her  at: www.Lesliesartor.com

Expect a cover reveal in the near future! I can hardly wait!

L.A. Sartor, Christmas, Best-Selling Author, job, goal, burnout, Prince of Granola, The Chunky Method Handbook, Thyme for Writers
L.A. Sartor

The Setting

The story is set in a mountain town at the mouth of Rocky Mountain National Park. I don’t want to reveal too much at this point, but I’ll share the back cover copy once the cover is revealed.

Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park

Fact or Fiction?

After the Verdict is a work of fiction, but as in most fiction, there is inspiration found in reality. After its release, you will be able to uncover what is fact and what is fiction through my Fact or Fiction blog series.

Stay tuned!

© 2023 Karen VDH Fischer

A suspense thriller with a dash of romance, Search Beyond Lies tells the story

suspense thriller, romantic suspense, Colorado, Rocky Mountains, action
Search Beyond Lies, Book One in the Search & Recovery International Series

of the search for a missing scientist, a top-secret project, and a ticking clock. Desperate to find his friend and mentor, James Frankel knows that only former Army Ranger, Charlie Sommer can help him. But how can he trust a woman who’s keeping secrets?

As a former Army Ranger, Charlie Sommers garnered the reputation of having the highest search and rescue success rate, but she’s plagued by the one she left behind. Now she’s on the verge of an exciting new beginning as a part of Search & Recovery International where her secrets are safe. There’s only one problem: the new assignment will take her back to Colorado and the loss that still haunts her.

The clock is ticking down. With their lives–and their hearts–at risk, Charlie and James join forces in an attempt to save the scientist and the world from catastrophe while finding the truth beyond lies in this action-packed thriller. It is available at https://amzn.to/3ueVmTO.