Kelly Romo's Blog

“They seemed so nice…”That’s how way too many true crime stories start. If you’ve ever ignored your gut to stay polite—this post is for you. Learn the red flags, trust your instincts, and remember: it’s always better to be rude than dead.

The rush of cold water, the whisper of wind through canyon walls, and the quiet precision of a fly fisherman casting into the current or a whitewater raft floating by sounds serene. But, beneath the surface of Oregon’s Deschutes River, danger lurks. In DEAD DRIFT and I AM THE RIVER, that danger takes the form of a serial killer who uses the peaceful facade of fly fishing to mask his dark intentions. The Deschutes isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character all its own, offering beauty, isolation, and an edge of fear, both in fiction and real life.

 

The Allure of the Deschutes River

Winding through central Oregon’s high desert, the Deschutes River has long been a source of life and adventure. Once a vital resource for Native American tribes and early settlers, today it’s a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts drawn by its rugged beauty, challenging whitewater rapids, and world-class fly fishing. Steep canyon walls, stretches of whitewater, and the whisper of nature make the Deschutes feel untouched by time. The Deschutes isn’t just known for its beauty—it’s also notorious for its unpredictability. Strong currents run beneath calm surfaces, hidden rapids catch even seasoned rafters off guard, and the steep, rocky terrain can make it difficult to find safety. The river's isolation adds another layer of risk since miles can stretch between access points, and cell service is often nonexistent. In these two thrillers, the raw wilderness amplifies the tension—when danger strikes, there’s no easy escape. This wild, untamed beauty makes it the perfect setting for suspense.

Real-Life Chills: Two Dark Tales from the Deschutes

The Deschutes River isn’t just a backdrop for fictional suspense—it has been shadowed by real-life horrors. In addition to cold cases of missing people and murders, one of the most chilling connections involves serial killer Israel Keyes, who is believed to have murdered eleven people across the U.S. between 2001 and 2012. His first known crime occurred near the Deschutes River sometime between 1996 and 1998. Keyes confessed to abducting and assaulting a teenage girl, estimated to be between 14 and 18 years old, near Maupin, Oregon, where his family lived for a short time. The victim had been with friends, but Keyes separated her from the group. No police reports matching the crime have surfaced, so the victim’s identity—and her fate—is unknown. Keyes often targeted isolated areas like hiking trails and campgrounds, blending his love for remote wilderness with terrifying intent. His calculated cruelty left a trail of unanswered questions, even after his 2012 arrest and subsequent death at his own hands.

Further upstream, at the headwaters of the Deschutes, the Lava Lake Murders cast an older, equally haunting shadow. During the brutal winter of 1923–1924, three trappers living in isolation by the frozen lake were found murdered—shot, bludgeoned with a hammer, and hidden beneath the ice. Suspicion fell on a former Elk Lake Lodge employee who had disappeared shortly after the murders. He was discovered five years later in Montana, but authorities lacked the evidence to convict him. Nearly a century later, the case remains unsolved.

Weaving Fiction from Reality in Two Deschutes River Thriller Novels, DEAD DRIFT and I AM THE RIVER

 

Two Girls

A Whitewater Rafting Town

And a Serial Killer Just Getting His Feet Wet

 

Emmy has always acted on impulse. Now aged out of foster care, she’s ready for freedom on her own terms. When her best friend, Amber, becomes the target of a predatory uncle lurking in the shadows of her group home, they hatch a desperate escape plan.

 

Their goal is clear: get to Canada, where Amber will be safe, and the foster system can no longer control their lives. But along the way, a detour tempts them—a whitewater rafting adventure promises one last taste of freedom and fun before they disappear for good. The decision seems harmless, maybe even healing. Instead, it becomes the turning point that seals their fate.

 

The rafting town of Lodell feels eerily cut off from the world. Emmy’s car radio crackles with static, a reminder of how far they’ve strayed from safety. Just as they consider turning back, a truck loaded with whitewater rafts and rugged, charming guides appears—offering the excitement and escape they’re chasing. Against every instinct, they follow the truck down an isolated dirt road to a remote river town with a dark secret. A girl vanished from there the summer before—and she won’t be the last.

 

In these thrillers, the Deschutes isn’t just the setting—it’s a silent accomplice to a serial killer who hides in plain sight, blending into the river’s peaceful flow while masking the deadly undercurrent below.

Come on In, the Water is Fine

The Deschutes is stunning, powerful, and, in its isolation, a little unsettling. In DEAD DRIFT and I AM THE RIVER, it becomes the perfect hunting ground—a place where the wildness of nature mirrors the dark intentions of a killer. If you’re drawn to stories where suspense flows as deeply as the river itself, these two thrillers might be your next adventure. Dive in—just don’t expect the current to carry you to safety.

Last summer, during our trip to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Africa, we met a porter named Freedom. Every day, he went above and beyond to make sure we had a great experience. Freedom speaks six languages and is highly intelligent, hardworking, and well-educated. Despite his abilities, opportunities in Zimbabwe are scarce.

 The economy of Victoria Falls relies almost entirely on tourism. Unlike service workers in the U.S., tipping is not a reliable source of income there. Tipping is not customary in many countries, so when people from those countries travel, they don’t tip—which leaves service workers struggling to make ends meet. On top of that, there is a whole line of people applying for every job in Zimbabwe. Families also face immense challenges, including paying school tuition, even for public education, and hoping they get enough rain for their vegetable gardens.

 

When we gave Freedom a generous tip, he said he used it to catch up on overdue school fees for his children. Freedom is the sole support of his wife, their two daughters, aged eleven and six, his late brother's three children, and his sister-in-law. We connected with Freedom via WhatsApp while we were in Africa, and he shared some photos of his home and family with us. When we gave him our final tip before leaving, his daughters recorded a video clip to thank us, and Freedom shared it with us. His pride in his family and their modest home shines through in the videos he sends of his family, chickens, and goats. When I mentioned my son’s upcoming wedding, Freedom said they should come to Victoria Falls for their honeymoon. If they did, his wife, Luyando, would prepare a meal using one of their goats.

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After returning home, the disparities between my opportunities and Freedom’s weighed heavy on my heart. While I couldn't help everyone in Zimbabwe, I realized I could make a meaningful difference for Freedom's family. I decided to send the children some clothes and a soccer ball, but shipping costs exceeded $700. Instead, I sent the money directly to Freedom through Western Union. He used it wisely and purchased a laptop for the children’s schoolwork, shoes, food, and paid some school fees. He even shared receipts and photos to show how he spent the funds.

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When I shared a photo of the fall leaves around my town, Freedom asked how many cars I had, thinking they were all mine. He expressed his wish for a car and explained that owning one would allow him to start a taxi business and provide stable support for his family.

 

This sparked an idea that aligns with my deep belief: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime." If I could help Freedom get a car, it could transform his life and his family’s lives for generations. A car would enable him to start a sustainable business, feed his family, and give the children a good education. In Zimbabwe, family and community are central to life. Freedom would also have the chance to grow his business and help his entire village.

I looked into what it would cost in Victoria Falls to purchase a reliable used car with enough money left over for permits and startup expenses, and I discovered it would cost about $5,000. When I asked Freedom if he would be open to donations for this purpose, he was extremely excited.

 

I’ve set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise $5,000 for Freedom’s car and permits. Any amount will help—even $5 will get him $5 closer. Together, we can help Freedom build a sustainable future for his family and his village.

 

Donate here: https://gofund.me/584a876a

 

With Love,

Kelly

The rugged terrain, rivers, and small-town allure of Oregon’s high desert inspired every twist and turn of my Whitewater Thriller series. The area is a haven for outdoor living that draws hikers, whitewater rafting enthusiasts, and fly-fishing aficionados alike. It’s there where the rushing waters of the Deschutes and glittering lakes of the Cascades sparked my imagination and became the backdrop for my Whitewater Thriller novels, DEAD DRIFT and I AM THE RIVER.

 

Maupin, Oregon, a quaint town nestled along the Deschutes River, became the cornerstone of my fictional world. Based on this whitewater rafting destination, I created the fictional town of Lodell, where the pulse of the story beats with the rhythm of the flowing river. To immerse myself in Maupin, I made countless stays along the Deschutes River at the lodge of the Imperial River Company, where I wrote and absorbed the ambiance that would breathe life into my story. I interviewed the townspeople and river guides to get a feel for the culture of a whitewater town. The river guides took me on thrilling rafting trips through class II through IV rapids, where I was able to experience the heart-pounding adrenaline surge and watch how they expertly navigated the river and the people in their rafts. Each splash and swirl enriched my understanding of the river's allure and danger.

The Deschutes River offers more than just excitement—it is a sanctuary for serenity. I spent many peaceful days along its banks, connecting with nature and the age-old tradition of fly fishing. I camped under the stars where the wind rustled the walls of my tent, and the pulsing thump of trains echoed down the canyon. Ospreys nested nearby and swooped down to grab fish from the river right in front of me, and the haunting call of mourning doves added another layer to the symphony of the wilderness—all of which I weaved into the atmosphere of my thrillers.

 

Prineville, Oregon, with its rugged charm and rich history, captured my imagination as I sought inspiration for the fictional town of Silverdale. Prineville exudes a sense of authenticity that infuses every page of my novels. From its quaint downtown adorned with historic buildings to the surrounding vistas of juniper-dotted hillsides, Prineville offers a glimpse into a bygone era while embracing the spirit of adventure that defines the region. It's a place where the past meets the present, where the echoes of pioneers mingle with the whispers of modern-day explorers, and the Crooked River weaves through the rugged canyon. In Prineville, the allure of the untamed wilderness is palpable, making it a fitting landscape for the resilient characters that populate my stories.

Bend, Oregon, serves as a vibrant outdoor recreation hub that influenced the creation of the fictional town of Rockland in my novels. Nestled at the base of the majestic peaks of the Cascade Range, Bend embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration. Its lively downtown scene, brimming with breweries, art galleries, and eclectic shops, reflects a community that embraces creativity and innovation. From the Deschutes River's serene shores to nearby mountain hiking trails, Bend offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in their passions. I spent many days there imagining my town of Rockland, where through-hikers of the Pacific Crest Trail venture to restock their supplies, get a nice warm meal, and a shower in a city that welcomes them.

Up from Bend and along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway, a dozen lakes, including Elk Lake, Lava Lake, and Little Lava Lake, glitter like jewels in the forest. In my novels, the serial killer declares, “I am the river, and the river is me. It is the fluid, and I am the flesh,” making the headwaters of the Deschutes River particularly significant to him. Little Lava Lake serves as the origin of the Deschutes River, drawing both myself and the serial killer to its shores to replenish and reflect.

Maupin, Prineville, Bend, and the Cascade Lakes transcend mere scenery in my Whitewater Thriller series. They are characters in their own right, and each contributes to the rich atmosphere of my novels. From the rush of the rapids to the tranquility of mountain lakes, every vista is a chapter waiting to be written.

 

In the end, my journey through these landscapes wasn't just about research—it was about immersion, about experiencing the pulse of life that beats within the heart of Oregon. As the pages of DEAD DRIFT and I AM THE RIVER turn, it's my hope that readers, too, will feel the rush of the rapids, the scents of juniper and sage, and the haunting calls of mourning doves as they embark on their own adventure through the pages.

The Musical Preferences of Serial Killers

As a thriller writer, I know how important it is to delve into the minds of my characters and understand their motives and thought processes. That's why I was intrigued when I stumbled upon an article listing the favorite songs of some of the most notorious serial killers in history. It got me thinking about the significance of music in their lives and what it reveals about their personalities.

As a writer, both professionally and personally, I wonder about every detail I share with the world, whether it's through social media or the pages of my novels. The thought of how my words could be interpreted or utilized once they leave my hands is a constant lingering concern. Perhaps this is heightened by the fact that I often slip into the psyche of a serial killer in my thriller novels. I can't help but wonder about the ramifications for the musicians whose work has been taken to heart by such individuals. Are you ready to dive in and see what I found?

***I would love your input for a song to go with my serial killer, HIM (see the last paragraph for more info).

David Berkowitz

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David Berkowitz, also recognized by the moniker Son of Sam and the .44 Caliber Killer, was a military veteran who confessed to the murders of eight people across various New York boroughs between 1975 and 1977. He professed that he was acting under the command of a demonic entity, which he believed was embodied in his neighbor's dog, "Sam". Interestingly, Berkowitz was an avid admirer of the musical duo Hall & Oates and their chart-topping hit "Rich Girl" in particular. He alleges that this song stirred him and not only offered him the impetus for his heinous deeds but also identified his victims: young females.

Ted Bundy

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Theodore Robert Bundy, commonly known as Ted Bundy, was a charismatic and intelligent serial killer who abducted, assaulted, and killed numerous young women and girls primarily during the 1970s, although there may have been earlier victims. After more than ten years of denial, he admitted to the commission of thirty murders across seven states between 1974 and 1978, although the actual number of his victims remains undetermined. In the book "Ted Bundy: Conversations with a Killer", Bundy candidly shared his predilection for talk radio. He stated, "I would lie in bed for hours listening to news broadcasts exclusively...My favorite thing on Sunday nights was to scan the radio bands for talk shows, call-in programs, documentaries, and the like. I'd prefer to spend all day listening to talk shows than music."

Jeffrey Dahmer

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Jeffrey Dahmer, often referred to as the "Milwaukee Cannibal" or the "Milwaukee Monster," was a notorious serial killer who claimed the lives of 17 males from the late 1970s to the early 1990s. He frequently found his victims in public places such as bars, bus stops, and malls. Dahmer had a severe alcohol addiction, and during his short military service, he would often get heavily intoxicated. He was fond of the heavy metal band Black Sabbath, especially their song "Iron Man," and would often indulge in their music while inebriated and planning his nefarious deeds.

John Wayne Gacy

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John Wayne Gacy, often referred to as "The Killer Clown", was a serial killer who performed at children's parties and hospitals in the Chicago area under the monikers "Pogo the Clown" and "Patches the Clown". He was accountable for the murder of at least 33 people, predominantly during the 1970s. The police later uncovered the remains of 26 victims from a crawlspace in his residence in Norrige, Illinois. Gacy, during his time on death row, revealed his favorite musicians to be REO Speedwagon and Elton John. In addition, he expressed appreciation for the music of Bob Dylan, Neil Diamond, and Roy Orbison.

Vickie Dawn Jackson

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Vickie Dawn Jackson, often dubbed "The Angel of Death", was a covert murderer operating within Nocona General Hospital, where she served as a nurse from 2000 to 2001. Her modus operandi involved injecting her victims with a drug that incapacitated their respiratory systems. A native of Texas, she had a deep affection for country music, resonating with its simplicity of three chords and the honesty in its lyrics. The Third Spur, a well-known local honky tonk, was not only a place where she enjoyed music but also became a site of one of her assaults.

Charles Manson

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Charles Manson, although not classified as a serial killer, was infamous as the cult leader of the Manson Family, credited with the murders of seven individuals, including Hollywood actress Sharon Tate. Manson harbored aspirations of becoming a musician and was associated with Dennis Wilson of the Beach Boys. The band recorded a song written by Manson originally titled “Cease to Exist,” but they renamed it “Never Learn Not to Love,” leading to Manson's resentment for not receiving acknowledgment. He identified references in The Beatles' White Album, which he believed were directed at him and incited him to ignite a race war. He construed their song "Helter Skelter" as a call to arms for the Manson Family. In the course of the Tate/LaBianca killings in 1969, his disciples inscribed "Healter Skelter" (with an "a") in the victims' blood. Manson also expressed an admiration for the Mamas & the Papas and Neil Young.

Richard Ramirez

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Richard Ramirez, also known as "The Night Stalker," was responsible for the brutal murders of 15 (or possibly more) individuals in California between June 1984 and August 1985. A self-proclaimed Satanist, Ramirez often compelled his victims to profess their love for Satan. Ramirez was an ardent fan of AC/DC, and it was, ironically, his prized AC/DC baseball cap left behind at a crime scene that led to his undoing. His fandom extended to other heavy metal bands, as evidenced by the lyrics from Judas Priest's song "The Ripper," found at one of his crime scenes. Some speculate that his murderous spree may have been influenced by the AC/DC song "Night Prowler," though this has not been definitively confirmed.

Aileen Wuornos

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Aileen Wuornos, infamously referred to as the "Damsel of Death," was a sex worker turned serial killer who fatally shot seven of her male clients in Florida. A cinematic depiction of her life, titled "Monster", was released in 2003, featuring Charlize Theron and Christina Ricci in lead roles. The movie secured numerous accolades and nominations, primarily for Theron's exceptional performance, including the Academy Award for Best Actress, the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Drama, the SAG Award for Outstanding Lead Actress, the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Actress, the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead, along with the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature for Patty Jenkins. Wuornos harbored a fascination for Natalie Merchant and her band, 10,000 Maniacs, so profound that she requested for Merchant's song, "Carnival," to be played at her wake.

Can You Help Me?

While it may be unsettling to think about the musical preferences of serial killers, examining their favorite songs can shed light on their innermost thoughts and desires. As I search for the perfect song for my own fictional killer, HIM, I would appreciate your help selecting a song he would sing to Ashely and her girls. Keep in mind the setting of my thriller is in 2009. If you have a song in mind, one that threads this chilling narrative together, I'd love to hear it. Feel free to reply to this email with your recommendations. Your input in shaping this spine-tingling tale is highly valued.

Summer is here, and that means it's time for fairs, festivals, and rodeos in Oregon! I'm excited to announce that I will be signing books and meeting readers at four different fairs this year! If you're in the area, I'd love for you to stop by and say hi! I will have copies of both my historical fiction novels, as well as my thrillers.

The first fair is the Robin Hood Festival in Sherwood on July 14th and 15th. This festival is a family-friendly event that features jousting, live music, and a medieval marketplace. I'm excited to participate in this celebration of all things Robin Hood.

Next up, I will be attending the Newberg Old Fashioned Festival from July 27th - 30th. This festival has been a favorite for Oregon families for over 60 years! With carnival rides, live entertainment, and delicious food, there's something for everyone to enjoy. I'll be there with my books, eager to meet new readers and chat with old friends, former students, and fans.

August 4th and 5th will find me at the Deschutes County Fair and Rodeo. This fair has been a staple of Central Oregon summers for over a century, providing the local community and visitors alike with a week of fun and excitement. From rodeo events to carnival rides and live music, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. I'm looking forward to this fair and rodeo because my thrillers are set at the Deschutes River and the Cascade Lakes--right in the backyard of this fair. If you plan on visiting or are in the area, drop by and grab a copy of my books to take home with you.

Finally, on August 12th, I will be attending Aurora Colony Days. This festival is a celebration of Oregon history, as it takes place in a town founded in 1856 by a group of German immigrants. The festival includes a parade, a quilt show, a craft fair, and more. I'll be there, signing books and enjoying the festivities.

If you're in Oregon this summer, I hope you'll come to one of the fairs, festivals, or rodeos I'll be attending. I'd love to meet you, sign a book or two, or even just chat about literature, writing, or whatever. These festivals are the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends, so mark your calendars and join me for a day of excitement and some good old Oregon entertainment.

If you're unsure where my booth is located, keep an eye out for a banner with my giant head on it!

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Audiobooks have become increasingly popular, and with good reason. They allow you to dive into a great story or topic without having to sit down and read. Audiobooks are perfect for commuting, working, or just relaxing. However, finding a good narrator can be challenging. That's why I'm excited to introduce you to Talon David and Ryan Haugen, the narrators for DEAD DRIFT as well as my newest book, I AM THE RIVER. They both brought their unique talents to the project, creating an unforgettable audio experience.

I AM THE RIVER (Available now on Audible.com )

Talon David and Ryan Haugen are an incredible duo and the perfect narrators for my latest audiobook, I AM THE RIVER. Their unique and dynamic vocal styles bring a depth of emotion and character to my book. If you are a fan of audiobooks, I highly recommend you check out I AM THE RIVER and experience the exceptional work of these talented narrators.

TALON DAVID

Talon David is an actress and recording artist based in Nashville. Talon's charismatic, intellectual, and articulate voice was perfect for I AM THE RIVER, which is a thrilling story full of twists and turns. Talon's home recording studio is top-notch, allowing her to produce and record for voice-over projects, specializing in audiobook narration. When you listen to I AM THE RIVER, you'll hear the passion and dedication Talon brought to the project.

She's also a talented musician, and her pop-structured music incorporates jazz chords and rock rhythms. Talon's goal for her music is to tell stories that uplift listeners by acknowledging the reality that life is tough, incredibly painful, and worth singing about. To learn more about her music, check out her WEBSITE.

RYAN HAUGEN

Ryan Haugen is a warm narrator with a dynamic vocal range. He's been featured in AudioFile's Best Audiobooks of 2022 and has narrated over 70 titles on Audible. Ryan is a Graphic Audio producer of best-selling audio dramas. Ryan has also done voice work for video games and ESL training programs for kids in South America. Ryan's childhood passion for animation, cinema, and video games informs his voice-over approach, making him perfect for I AM THE RIVER, which is a thrilling psychological thriller with a dark and ominous male character. Ryan is always searching for new projects to hone his craft and looks forward to hearing from authors and rights holders who wish to collaborate with him. Check out his WEBSITE.

SAMPLE CHAPTERS

Here is the prologue and first chapter so you can hear how their unique and dynamic vocal styles bring a depth of emotion to the characters in my book. If you are interested in purchasing the audiobook, it is available at AUDIBLE or these other RETAILERS.

Nothing in life is done in isolation. Once I finish the first draft of my novels, I rely on my editors to help my work reach its full potential. From the initial developmental edit to content edits and the final copyedit, they are instrumental in helping me create a final book that is polished and ready for publication. I cannot thank them enough for all their hard work and expertise!

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Mike Magnuson

Mike was an invaluable asset in the successful completion of this novel. His keen eye for detail and thorough proofreading helped to ensure that the final product was polished and professional. He also provided insightful advice on how to improve its structure, particularly with regard to the ending. His expertise helped me to focus and write a satisfying conclusion for readers.

Mike Magnuson is the author of The Right Man for the Job, The Fire Gospels, Lummox, Heft on Wheels, and Bike Tribes. His short stories and personal essays have appeared in Salon, Esquire, Gentleman’s Quarterly, The Massachusetts Review, Men’s Health, Bicycling, Backpacker, Popular Mechanics, The Big Smoke, Best American Sports Writing, and many other publications. He lives in Menasha, Wisconsin, on the north shore of Lake Winnebago. Mike is currently working with composer Rick Krizman on a project called ACME Hotel, featuring Rick’s music wranglings and Mike’s spoken-word performances.

Diane Peters

The creation of a novel is no easy task and often requires the help of another set of eyes. Enter the beta reader—an experienced individual who can provide invaluable feedback on a first draft that allows for revisions to be made before it's ready for publication. This was certainly true in my case when I wrote my thriller, I AM THE RIVER. Without the assistance of my beta reader Diane Peters, this book would not have become what it is today.

Reading has been Diane's passion since childhood. Her favorites were Nancy Drew, Five Little Peppers, and Louisa May Alcott's books. She currently reads women's fiction, science fiction, romance, mystery, and paranormal and urban fantasy. She taught reading for thirty-seven years, among other classes.

Diane loves introducing people and children to new authors. She discovers new authors and books through her twelve years of being in a book club. She even invited me to their meetings when they discussed my books, WHISTLING WOMEN and WHEN SORROW TAKES WING. Diane loves to pass on her passion for books. Now, she gets to find books for her grandkids, who love being read to.

Julie Martinez

Julie was instrumental in helping me with my book, I AM THE RIVER. She has been actively involved in working to protect the rights of victims for many years and understands the complexities associated with this topic. Her insights were invaluable as I sought to create a narrative that accurately reflects the experiences of those affected by crime and violence. With her help, I was able to craft a story that resonates deeply with readers while also shedding light on important issues related to victims' rights.

Julie is married and a grandmother of twelve. She had lived in Central Oregon for forty-some years and has been a Prosecutor based advocate inside the criminal justice system for twenty years. She loves being an advocate and being able to help victims that may be at one of the worst times of their lives. She has been involved in the facilitation of victim rights for twenty years. Julie’s Victim Assistance Program's mission statement is: To assist victims of crime through their personal victimization with respect and dignity while providing timely and effective services in an effort to achieve justice and community safety. Julie likes providing victims with the assistance and services necessary to facilitate a safe, restorative healing process. She also has a love of reading and truly loves suspenseful books.

Colton Donovan

I was fortunate to have Colton as one of my content editors. His expertise and meaningful insights as a first responder helped me bring those scenes to life and gave me the confidence to represent them in an accurate and realistic light.

Colton is a highly experienced first responder and paramedic with nine years of experience in various capacities. In addition to his work as a firefighter/paramedic, AIC Engineer, AIC Lieutenant, and member of Special Rescue Teams, he also enjoys leisure activities such as traveling the world and exploring the outdoors. When he's not working hard to save lives, Colton is often found camping, hiking, surfing, or snowboarding. He cherishes the time spent with family and friends, soaking up the sights and sounds of each unique adventure.

Retired Sheriff

I am grateful for the help of a retired Sheriff who provided a content edit with my law enforcement scenes. He has many years of experience in the field, and his insights helped me accurately portray the reality of law enforcement. His attention to detail was impressive as he edited my scenes with police procedures, tactics, and protocols. His knowledge made a huge difference in the quality and accuracy of my writing.

He wishes to remain anonymous, so I am not including his name or photo, but I could not give my thanks to my other editors without including him.

My daughter, Brittany, created an extraordinary cover for my newest thriller! It all started with her taking on the challenge of designing my cover for I AM THE RIVER. It was a daunting task that scared even me! But, as she did for my other two covers, she rose to the occasion and used her “creative magic” to design a cover so eye-catching and epic, it gave me chills...literally.

,Introducing My Daughter / My Cover Designer

Brittany Romo is a graphic designer with an eye for creating stunning visuals. Brittany's portfolio at ,BRITTANY ROMO DESIGN showcases her ability to capture the essence of any project and bring it to life in a captivating way. From logos and branding to book covers and illustrations, she has created designs that are both visually appealing and emotionally resonant. Brittany always takes the time to understand her client's vision before diving into the design process, ensuring that each piece she creates reflects their unique style and aesthetic. Her commitment to quality work makes her an invaluable asset for anyone looking for creative design solutions.

Brittany has taken her passion for design to a whole new level and has become a novel cover designer extraordinaire. Her unique approach to blending typography and graphics together create a visual masterpiece that captures the essence of a book. Not only are her designs top-notch, but her witty personality and eye for detail make her the perfect collaborator for any author.

,Researching Thriller Covers

Have you ever wondered what makes a thriller book cover so captivating? The cover is the first thing that catches a reader’s attention and can make or break the decision to pick up the book. But have you ever thought about the research that goes into creating a thriller cover? From the typography to the colors and images, every detail is carefully thought out to evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue. As a designer, researching thriller covers can be both challenging and exciting. The challenge lies in creating a cover that stands out among the sea of other thriller books while also accurately portraying the tone and genre of the story.

,Sharing the Final Product with the World!

There's nothing quite like the feeling of sharing your hard work with the world. After all, art—whether it is my story or her design—is meant to be shared, and it is extra rewarding that we work together to combine our talents.

In the end, having Brittany design my novel cover was a thrilling and inspiring activity. It allowed us to bond over the creative process and share our finished product with joy. The final result is a beautiful book cover that perfectly captures the essence of my novel.

My daughter's talents as a cover designer are certainly something to be proud of! She also designed my covers for DEAD DRIFT and WHEN SORROW TAKES WING. I look forward to seeing what cover design she comes up with for my next book.

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,Brittany Romo Design

If you're in need of a stunning cover that makes your book stand out on the shelf, there's no need to look any further; contact Brittany at ,www.brittanyromodesign.com

Here are six telltale signs to look out for.

Are you concerned that someone you know could potentially be a serial killer? Do you have someone acting a little suspicious in your life? Are their words and behaviors difficult to reconcile? If so, it is important to note that there are certain key signs to look out for when identifying a potential serial killer. These include sensation seeking, lack of remorse, guilt or empathy, impulsivity, the need for power over others, predatory behavior, and the torture of animals. By keeping an eye out for these hallmarks, you may discover if someone close to you is more than they appear.

SENSATION SEEKING

Does someone in your life search endlessly for the next thrilling experience? Do they take risks and have an affinity for seeking out experiences and emotions that are unique, intricate, and powerful? Do they feel that life is mundane without the occasional rush of adrenaline or strange exotic feelings? This type of personality trait involves a readiness to push boundaries in all areas – physical, social, legal, and financial – without fear or worry of the repercussions. Unfortunately, this behavior can often lead to dangerous situations and is one indicator of a serial killer.

LACK OF REMORSE, GUILT, OR EMPATHY

Does a person in your life lack remorse, guilt, or empathy? Do they consistently show disregard for right and wrong? People with a lack of remorse or empathy often manipulate or treat others harshly without consideration of their feelings. They are impulsive in their behavior and do not stay within the boundaries of the law. Unfortunately, these individuals are often more than just lawbreakers. They may lie habitually, behave violently towards others, and struggle with drug and alcohol abuse. They also tend to avoid responsibilities related to family, work, or school, which can further exacerbate the problem. What's more, they may purposely attempt to make those around them angry or upset.

IMPULSIVITY

Do you know someone who makes rash decisions or reacts without thinking? Impulsivity is characterized by hot-headedness, unpredictable behavior, and instability in emotions, relationships, and other areas of life. These emotional outbursts often lead to feelings of inadequacy and a cycle of unstable behaviors that can be hard to break free from. For instance, someone with impulsiveness might become overly irate at even the slightest insult without understanding why their reaction was so disproportionate. Or they may take action without considering the consequences.

NEED FOR CONTROL

Does someone in your life try to control and manipulate you? Do they keep you in fear? Control comes in many forms, such as keeping you away from family, friends, or supportive people—and they make you feel guilty when you spend time with others. Controlling behaviors may include putting up financial, social, and emotional barriers that make it difficult for the victim to get out of the relationship. These measures could also involve stalking, questioning, embarrassing, or gaslighting their partner. In extreme cases, the perpetrator might even deprive the other person of basic needs like sleep or food. Sometimes, these behaviors can be so subtle and psychologically abusive that even long after the relationship ends, their victims remain traumatized. It is, therefore, essential for anyone in this kind of situation to take action as soon as possible.

PREDATORY BEHAVIOR

Do you know someone who displays predatory-like behavior eerily similar to wild carnivores? Unlike their animal counterparts, predatory people have no legitimate need to kill; they do so just because they can. In some rare cases, they may be provoked into violence, but it’s usually because they view other people as inferior beings who don’t matter in the grand scheme of things. It’s difficult to spot someone with this personality type since they can be highly skilled at pretending to be normal, though underneath the façade lies an unquenchable thirst for blood and destruction. It is not uncommon for them to disguise themselves as empathetic individuals, making them even more challenging to identify.

TORTURE OF ANIMALS

When it comes to the psychological profile of a serial killer, there is one telltale sign that should NEVER be overlooked: torturing animals. Studies have shown that killing or torturing small creatures such as birds, cats, and squirrels can often be an early warning sign of sociopathy in children. Much like many serial killers who murder other people to gain a sense of control over their lives, kids with violent tendencies tend to gain the same feeling by taking out their aggression on innocent animals. This behavior is further compounded when they collect, dissect, and disembowel them as part of their morbid fantasies. Parents should be especially vigilant when observing any strange behaviors around animals in their child, as these traits can potentially indicate deeper psychological issues than simply "kids being kids.” While this doesn’t necessarily guarantee a person will become a serial killer, it is an alarming sign that requires further investigation and possible help for the child exhibiting such behavior.

The hallmarks of a potential serial killer are stark and vivid. Sensation seeking, lack of remorse, impulsivity, control, predatory behavior, and animal torture are all traits to be aware of in your life. Of course, it is essential to remember that not everyone who possesses these qualities is a serial killer. However, if each trait is present and recognizable to someone close to you, then it might be worth investigating further. In any case, remain vigilant and trust your gut instincts.

***Disclaimer: This blog post is meant for entertainment purposes. I do not claim to be an expert on serial killers other than the research I did for my thriller novels. This blog is research-based, but please, take it all with a grain of salt.