Bullet

Praise for CLON-X

Jun 29, 2026 | About Me, Bullet, CLON-X, Darcy, Texas

Book Four in the Darcy McClain & Bullet Thriller Series

From James, Head of Editorial for Coffee & Chapters Book Enthusiasts

“We steward a private, highly selective hub of dedicated “super-readers” who actively champion exceptional works within your genre.

In celebration of our upcoming digital showcase series … our editorial board is hosting a dedicated master-series focused on The Architecture of Storytelling: From Vision to Voice. I am delighted to inform you that CLON-X: A Darcy McClain and Bullet Thriller was the premier recommendation… Your work stood out to us specifically for its compelling narrative depth, atmospheric world-building, and strong market appeal.

Why CLON-X Was Nominated (and What We See in Your Work). Our editorial board specifically shortlisted CLON-X because it represents the pinnacle of high-stakes, atmospheric suspense. The juxtaposition of former FBI Special Agent Darcy McClain’s sharp investigative instincts with the unique presence of her Giant Schnauzer, Bullet, immediately gripped our team.

Beyond the brilliant pacing, it is the profound thematic depth of your plot, diving into the murky ethics of human cloning, dark family secrets, and the prophecy of Dr. Catherine Lord’s own demise, that made it the premier recommendation for our founder, Olivia. We see immense potential for this book to completely captivate our audience, as our readers actively crave complex, character-driven thrillers that challenge the intellect while keeping the adrenaline pumping.”

*****

Liz, literary agent with Darhansoff & Verrill Literary Agency

“I recently came across your book while reviewing titles in your genre, and your work genuinely stood out to me. Your writing showed a strong creative voice, reader appeal, and clear publishing potential, which is exactly the kind of work we pay close attention to within our agency.”

*****

And from Joel host at WriteWise Author Studio

“I recently came across CLON-X and was immediately drawn to its compelling blend of forensic mystery, biotechnology, and high-stakes suspense. What particularly captured my attention was the way the story combines a chilling murder investigation with provocative questions surrounding human cloning, scientific ethics, and the lengths people will go to protect dangerous secrets. The discovery of Dr. Catherine Lord’s remains and the mystery surrounding her research create an instantly gripping premise.

I was especially intrigued by Darcy McClain’s role in the investigation. As a former FBI Special Agent reluctant to become involved, yet unable to ignore the evidence left behind by Cate herself, Darcy finds herself pulled into a case where every new discovery raises even greater questions. The combination of digital investigation, family intrigue, scientific controversy, and personal danger promises a thriller that is as intellectually engaging as it is suspenseful.

I’d be delighted to invite you to join me for a featured interview to discuss CLON-X, the inspiration behind the novel, your approach to blending cutting-edge scientific concepts with crime fiction, the creation of Darcy McClain as an investigator, and the ethical questions surrounding genetics, cloning, and scientific responsibility that drive the story. I believe our audience would greatly enjoy hearing about the research, ideas, and creative decisions that shaped this compelling thriller.”

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Book Cover Designs

Mar 6, 2026 | About Me, Brainwash, Bullet, California, CLON-X, Darcy, Gadgets, Genocide, New Mexico, Self-Publish Your Book, Settings, Texas, Writing

I was grappling with ideas for my next blog post when I received an email from a first-time reader. His question, “Where do you get your book cover designs? LOVE them!” That got me to thinking.

Brainwash

After I completed the rough draft of Brainwash and polished the book several times, I sent the manuscript to my editor. In the course of conversation, I asked her if she knew a good book cover designer. Without hesitation she replied, “Fiona of Fiona Raven Book Design.”

Those ghoulish zombie-looking characters on the cover were her idea, and I’ve had a lot of compliments on the design. She also suggested splitting the book’s title, Brainwash, into two words to make the title larger, more “grabby.”

Gadgets

As for Gadgets, the cover images were a no-brainer: hot air balloons. All I had to do was pull from my collection of photographs—the 800+ shots I had snapped during my attendance at two Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiestas.

In fact, while photographing the events, I found myself contemplating the gruesome thought of shooting a hot air balloon out of the sky, not with a conventional projectile, but with something more technologically advanced. With my background in medical lasers while working for an ophthalmic corporation, I thought, “Laser? Hmm. Why not?”

Genocide

In keeping with the morbid plot line, a morgue scene with dead bodies piling up seemed fitting for the cover. As for the book’s colors, I drew upon the premise for Genocide: Sean Ireland, the first gay presidential candidate in US history, is guaranteed the election—until he’s found dead at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.

Throughout history, the color purple, has had special significance. By the mid-20^th century, it and its vibrant cousin lavender had become synonymous with the LGBTQ+ community. To complement my purple/lavender choice, I went with a vivid lime green. In retrospect, a darker green would’ve been more complimentary and striking.

During a visit to Vancouver, BC, I had the chance to meet Fiona. I spent a delightful day touring Granville Island and after lunch met with her. She was putting the finishing touches to my cover for Genocide. Not long thereafter, Fiona retired and sold her business. That’s when I hired Alan and Ian of the Book Designers (https://bookdesigners.com/) to do the paperback and Kindle versions of Genocide, as well as the audiobook for Brainwash.

CLON-X

Again, the book’s plot guided my choice for the cover. Out for a run in Keller, Texas, former FBI Special Agent Darcy McClain and her giant schnauzer Bullet find a canvas sack submerged in a creek. Inside are the pulverized remains of renowned geneticist Dr. Catherine (Cate) Lord, who has been receiving death threats for her alleged research on human cloning.

Pulverized remains. Red of course for the background. As for the central emblem on the cover, I chose a DNA strand for human cloning. The text for the title and author name was an easy decision—another one of my favorite colors: turquoise.

Blue Angel

While writing Blue Angel, my mind wandered to what the cover would look like. My imagination played upon the dark, life-altering secrets that would challenge Darcy throughout the plot. That’s when I envisioned a black background for the cover. As for the blue angel, would the person be good or bad? Regardless, I chose blue for the title and author color. As for the book cover image? Hold that thought. You’ll know soon!

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