T.C. Shadowbrook's Blog

10 Reasons to Buy Perfect?



If you're looking for your next thriller obsession, let me tell you about my book Perfect? and the reasons I think you should read it next.

After writing The Silent Victim, which was 15+ years in the making, I had no idea what I would write next. So I took some classes, including a villain-making class, and that is where I created Elliot. Then, in a separate class on phobias, I started connecting him to specific fears and asking myself what kind of story could grow from that. Somewhere in the middle of all that, Elliot, Emily, and Courtney completely took over my brain. Their story kept expanding, the twists kept multiplying, and what started as one idea grew into something much bigger. Eventually, it became a trilogy.

1. Every Word Was Vetted

I need everyone to know this book put me through it during the editing process. I had migraines trying to make it perfect, which feels very on-brand for a book called Perfect?.

And yes, there was the Elliott vs. Elliot issue, but not because I was changing my mind about his name. It was always Elliot. My brain just kept betraying me and throwing in that extra "t" like a typo on a personal mission. So, let me save you the confusion now: it is definitely Elliot. Not Elliott. If that sounds obsessive, good. I was obsessive. Every detail mattered, and I treated it that way. Of course, since I was struggling with migraines and I had a hard deadline, I did it to myself. During the ARC reads, the typo was pointed out, and my brain only saw Elliot, not Elliott. Thank you to the ARC readers who pointed this mistake out to me! That was much appreciated.

2. It’s Scarily Realistic

I learned so much during this whole process. I focused on fears and tried to bring them alive. I wanted my readers to feel it, even though they knew information that my characters did not. The first chapter was truly difficult to write, but after I made it through the book, I went back and rewrote it with the vibes and feeling I had for the rest of the book. I wanted it to hit hard, I wanted people to go "OMG...What is wrong with this guy?"

I have received reviews that say just that in the opening, and yes, I did let out an evil laugh at the shock of the beginning and the ending. I wanted to make it memorable, and I think I did.

While taking my fears and phobias class, I wrote down a few that I really tried to focus on: humiliation, powerlessness, invasion of privacy, and abandonment. Not all of those fears were concentrated on in Perfect? but I promise they will be there throughout the trilogy.

3. It Peels Back the 'Perfect' Mask

This is one of the biggest themes in the book. Perfection is a performance. It’s a shield. It’s the version of ourselves we show when we don’t want anyone to see what’s really going on underneath.

That’s what I wanted to explore in Perfect?. Why do we hide behind facades? Why do we work so hard to protect an image that was never real to begin with? If you like thrillers that dig under polished surfaces, this one was written for you.

4. A Fresh, Powerful Voice

As a woman of color, I know how important perspective is. I wanted to write strong female characters and bring a fresh voice to the thriller space.

That doesn’t mean perfect women. It means layered women. Sharp women. Messy women. Women with depth, fear, instinct, and edge. That mattered to me on every page, and I think readers can feel that difference.

5. It’s Rooted in Real Situations

Now, it may not seem it, but I did a ton of research on a few things throughout Perfect?. Two major things I want to point out that I had researched, besides how the police handle things. First, when Emily is reading a book is real.  The second is the case that Courtney hears about from Rivera. I won't spoil the conversation.

6. Authentic Trauma, Not Just Tropes

I didn’t want this book to lean on cheap jump scares. I wanted it to hit in a more lasting way.

For me, the real tension comes from emotion, trauma, and the things people carry in silence. That’s the kind of horror that stays with you after the last page, and it’s a big part of what gives this story its weight.

7. An Entire World to Obsess Over

Perfect? connects to my Simply Obsessed series, and that rabbit hole goes deep.

If you’re the kind of reader who loves patterns, connections, crumbs, and bigger story threads, just know I see you. I write for you too. This is the kind of story that gives you more to obsess over once you realize how much is connected.

8. The Ending Will Wreck You (and the Matcha-Fueled Spreadsheet That Made It Happen)

I’m not spoiling the ending, but I will say this: it has kept people up until 2 AM. I’ve seen the love/hate reactions, and yes, I have done a little evil laughing over them.

That reaction is my favorite kind. If an ending gets under your skin enough to make you text someone in all caps, I did my job. If you want a thriller that actually leaves a mark, this one delivers.

Behind the scenes, the real MVP was a matcha-fueled spreadsheet. That was the tool I used to track the trilogy’s twists, crumbs, reveals, and all the little details that had to land at exactly the right moment. It’s the reason everything stays so tightly connected, even when the story keeps twisting in new directions. Very obsessive, completely necessary, and honestly the only way I could keep it all straight.

9. The Tropes

Here are a few of the key tropes you’ll find in Perfect?:

The Perfect Facade — polished on the outside, something much darker underneath.
Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing — danger hiding behind charm, beauty, and trust.
Realistic Trauma — fear grounded in emotion, consequences, and what people carry after the damage is done.
Strong/Messy Leads — layered women who feel sharp, complicated, emotional, and real.
The Shattering Twist — the kind of ending that pulls the rug out from under you.

10. A Mystery for the Detail-Obsessed

And here’s the fun part: so far, only one person has found a very specific character crumb. Which makes me wonder... did I bury it too well?

If you love catching details other readers miss, Perfect? is absolutely your kind of book.

What Readers Are Saying

One of my favorite parts of this whole process has been watching readers react in real time.

Some of you loved the ending. Some of you wanted to fight me over it. Honestly, both reactions make me happy.



If you’ve already read Perfect?, thank you for being part of this ride. If you haven’t yet, maybe this is your sign. Either way, I’m glad you’re here.

Guest Spotlights

If you’re looking for more books to add to your TBR, here are a couple of guest spotlights to check out:



J.L. Crane, The Woman Who Remembered Everything: When fractured memories start surfacing, a woman is pulled into a mystery that forces her to question who she is, what really happened, and whether the truth will set her free or destroy everything she thought she knew. https://storyoriginapp.com/swaps/06411fac-3ede-11f1-a034-3f7eccabc1ee



R.M. Demeester, The Girl Once Known: A buried memory returns with a name attached, sending a woman back into a dangerous past where old secrets refuse to stay hidden and every answer seems to come with a new threat. https://storyoriginapp.com/swaps/0652bcd2-3905-11f1-b7fb-0f3bc5ee46b6


Fables & Filth: Ink & Intrigue Festival

The festival started yesterday, and it is such a fun one for dark book lovers. There are free books, giveaways, and author Q&As happening throughout the event. I hope you caught my Q&A! If you missed it, don't worry—I am still actively participating in the festival. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

Festival Discord: https://discord.gg/gwVnbHXfFZ



The Silent Victim Giveaway

There is also a The Silent Victim giveaway happening on Goodreads, which means you have a chance to win a free eBook. You can enter here: https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/437829-the-silent-victim.
Stalk Me

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/t-c-shadowbrook/
Discord: https://discord.gg/PDZusFXpwN


— T.C. Shadowbrook

It is finally Friday, and the air feels just a bit lighter today. I have my favorite matcha latte sitting right next to my laptop, and the steam curls in the morning light. There is something so grounding about the earthy smell of matcha as I get ready to dive into thrillers and mysteries. It helps me focus while the rest of the world is still waking up. I wanted to take a moment to sit down and share some huge updates with you because things are moving fast in the publishing world.

If you have been following my journey for a while, you know how much I value community. Writing can be a lonely job sometimes. I spend hours and hours inside my own head or talking to characters that do not actually exist. That is why I am so excited to announce that I am officially starting a new online book club. This is not just any book club, though. We are making a permanent home for it over on Discord.

Why Discord is the New Home for Our Community

I chose Discord because it allows us to have a much more interactive experience than a simple email thread or a social media comment section. In our new server, we have dedicated channels for everything. We can talk about current reads, share theories about upcoming plot twists, or even just hang out and talk about our favorite snacks. It feels like a cozy digital living room where we can all gather and be ourselves.

The best part is that we can host live events and voice chats there. I want to hear your voices and know what keeps you up at night while reading a suspenseful novel. If you want to join the inner circle and be part of these conversations right from the start, you can join us here
T.C. Shadowbrook's Discord

Celebrating a Tiny Win

Before we get into the heavy stuff, I have to share a tiny win that made my whole week. I took a peek at the Goodreads page for my upcoming release and saw that we have already hit nine reviews. For an author like me, that feels like a massive victory. Each of those nine people took the time to read the early copies and share their honest thoughts with the world. It is so encouraging to see that the story is resonating with people.

If you want to see what those early readers are saying or if you want to add the book to your own want-to-read list, you can find the page here
T.C. Shadowbrook's Goodread Page

Answering an ARC Reader Question

Speaking of early readers, I recently got a wonderful question from one of my ARC readers. They asked about the inspiration for the main character's secrets in my latest story. They wanted to know whether those secrets were based on real people or just came from my imagination.

I think the best secrets in fiction are the ones that feel grounded in real human emotions. For this character, the secrets arose from a deep need for self-preservation. I often think about what a person would do if they were pushed to their absolute limit. Most people believe they are good, but everyone has a line they are willing to cross if the stakes are high enough. Exploring that grey area is where the real magic happens in a thriller.

Mark Your Calendars for These Big Dates

There is so much happening over the next few months, and I do not want you to miss a single thing. I have been working hard to make sure there are plenty of opportunities for you to grab my books and hang out with me online. Here are the dates you need to know.

Starting today, March 27, and running through March 31, the Kindle version of The Silent Victim will be completely free. This is my way of saying thank you for being such an amazing support system. Whether you are new to my writing or you just want to gift a digital copy to a friend, this is the perfect window to do it. You can find the book on my Amazon author page here
T.C. Shadowbrook's Amazon Page

After the free promo ends, we head straight into the big release. April 1 is the official launch day for Perfect?, and I am both nervous and thrilled to get this book into your hands. It has been a long journey from the first draft to the finished product, and I am so proud of how it turned out.

Then, on April 23, I will be participating in the Fables and Filth Festival. I am especially excited about this because I will be hosting a live Q&A session. You can come and ask me anything about my writing process, the themes in my books, or even what kind of matcha I am drinking that day. It is going to be a fantastic event filled with book lovers, and I would love to see you there.

Finally, looking further into the summer, we have the release date for Pursued? on July 1. It feels like a long way off, but the time is going to fly by.

A Writing Update from the Trenches

While all these promotions and releases are happening, I am still a writer at heart, which means I am always working on the next thing. Right now, I am deep into Pursued?, and it is quite the challenge. Starting a new book is always a mix of excitement and terror. You have this blank page staring back at you, and you have to find the voice for a new set of characters and a new mystery.

In Pursued? I am exploring some very dark streets and high-stakes situations. I want the reader to feel the tension from the very first sentence. It is a slow process, but I am really liking the way the atmosphere is coming together. Writing as a woman of color allows me to bring unique perspectives and cultural nuances to the thriller genre, and I hope that shines through in this new project.

Let's Keep the Conversation Going

I want to thank you again for being part of this community. Whether you are joining Discord, leaving a review on Goodreads, or just reading these newsletters every Friday, you are the reason I get to do what I love. I hope you enjoy the free promo for The Silent Victim, and I cannot wait to see you at the Fables and Filth Festival in April.

If you ever have questions or just want to say hi, you can always reach out through my website or find me in the book club. I will be here with my matcha latte and my notebook ready for the next adventure.

Have a wonderful weekend and happy reading.

T.C. Shadowbrook

Let’s talk about irony. Not the "rain on your wedding day" kind of irony, but the deep, soul-crushing, slightly hilarious kind that only an author can truly appreciate.

Right now, I am supposed to be finishing the final edits on my upcoming book. The title? Perfect?.

The problem? I can’t stop trying to make the book Perfect?... well, perfect.

I’ve been staring at the same three paragraphs for forty-five minutes. I’ve adjusted the formatting on the title page. I’ve even considered researching the exact chemical composition of the ink used in 19th-century printing presses just in case it becomes relevant to a plot point in Chapter 22. (Spoiler: It won’t).

Welcome to the glamorous world of the perfectionist author, where the higher the standards, the lower the actual word count.

The Mega-Struggle of the Perfectionist

There is a specific brand of torture involved in writing a book about the concept of perfection while being a perfectionist yourself. The question mark in the title, Perfect? is meant to be a provocation. It’s meant to challenge the reader to look beneath the surface of a seemingly flawless life to find the cracks, the shadows, and the secrets.

But my brain doesn't seem to care about the nuance of the punctuation. It just sees the word "Perfect" and decides that every single comma in this manuscript needs to be interrogated like a suspect in a high-stakes thriller.

If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by a project because you’re afraid it won’t live up to the vision in your head, you aren’t alone. It turns out there’s actual science behind why we do this to ourselves.

The Procrastination Playbook

In my house, procrastination doesn’t look like lying on the couch watching reality TV. It looks incredibly productive.

-The Deep Dive: I need to know the exact layout of a specific street in London for a scene that lasts two pages. Three hours later, I am an expert on 1920s urban planning, but I haven't written a single word.

-The Matcha Ritual: A quick break to clear my head turns into a twenty-minute ceremony of sifting powder and achieving the perfect froth. If the matcha isn't smooth, how can the prose be?

-The "Admin" Trap: Scrolling through the Amazon store to make sure everything looks "just right" for when the book finally launches.

It’s all a clever ruse. My brain is just trying to keep me away from the scary work of being a "real" writer, which involves making mistakes and writing some truly terrible first sentences

Thriller Writing and the Need for Control

As a thriller writer, the need for perfection is even more intense. In a mystery, everything has to fit. The clues have to be subtle but present. The pacing has to be tight. If one thread is loose, the whole sweater unravels.

When I’m working on a book like The Silent Victim, I can spend days worrying if a character’s motivation is clear enough. In Perfect?, I’m exploring the dark side of a "flawless" exterior, and that makes me even more self-conscious about my own work. I want the prose to be as sharp as a scalpel. I want the atmosphere to be so thick you can taste it.

But here’s the truth I have to keep reminding myself: a finished, "imperfect" book is infinitely better than a "perfect" one that only exists in my head.

Breaking the Cycle (or at least trying to)

How do I get past the "Perfect?" hurdle? Usually, it involves a few specific tricks:

1. The "Garbage" Draft: I give myself permission to write something absolutely terrible. I tell myself, "This chapter is going to be a disaster, and that’s okay." It takes the pressure off.

2. The Timer: I set a timer for 20 minutes. I’m allowed to do whatever I want once it goes off, but for those 20 minutes, I have to engage with the manuscript.

3. Community: Talking to other writers who are going through the same thing. Speaking of which, if you want to hang out with a bunch of us who are equally obsessed with stories (and occasionally procrastinating), you should definitely join my personal Discord community here. It’s a great place to find your next favorite read or just commiserate about the struggle of the creative process.

What’s Next for T.C. Shadowbrook?

Despite the procrastination and the obsessive matcha whisking, Perfect? is getting closer to the finish line every day. It’s a story I’m incredibly proud of, even if I still want to tweak every third adjective.

If you’re looking for something to read while you wait for the new release, you can always check out The Silent Victim on Amazon. It’s got all the suspense and mystery you’ve come to expect, and I promise I eventually stopped editing it long enough to actually publish it!

Guest Spotlight: Willard B. Graves — Shrouded In Mystery

In Shrouded In Mystery by Willard B. Graves, every night is a struggle for sleep. Exhaustion is taking its toll, and an unrelenting sense of danger follows the narrator everywhere. Constant panic, looking over your shoulder—this psychological thriller keeps the tension high.

Grab it here

Final Thoughts from the Editing Abyss

To all my fellow perfectionists out there: the irony is real, but it doesn't have to be permanent. Whether you’re writing a book, painting a canvas, or just trying to organize your kitchen, remember that "done" is usually better than "perfect."

The cracks are where the light gets in, right? Or in my case, the cracks are where the tension builds and the mystery deepens.

Happy reading, and stay curious. (And maybe just a little bit imperfect).

If you are interested in joining the ARC read of Perfect? sign up by clicking here

The Messy Truth: Struggles and Love Behind Writing

Here’s the messy truth about writing: it’s romantic for about five minutes.

Then it turns into you, in the dark, whispering “why would you do that?” to a fictional character who cannot hear you, while your document blinks like it’s patiently waiting for you to stop being dramatic and type.

But the real struggle isn’t just the dramatic whispering (though, yes, it happens). It’s the stuff no one wants to put on a cute Reel.

It’s finding the time when life is already booked solid. It’s writing in stolen pockets—between obligations, after work, before the sun wakes up, during that one quiet hour when everyone else is finally doing their own thing. It’s trying to protect your writing time like it’s a tiny candle in a windy room.

It’s hunting for motivation when your brain would rather do literally anything else. Suddenly organizing a junk drawer feels urgent. Suddenly you “need” to research Victorian doorknobs for a scene that does not include Victorian doorknobs. Suddenly you’re bargaining with yourself like, “If I write 500 words, I can read one more chapter,” as if reading were a currency and not a lifestyle.

And then there’s the big one: the pressure of getting it right.

Because once you’re deep in a book, it stops feeling like “words on a page” and starts feeling like a promise. You want the pacing tight. The emotions clean. The twists sharp. You want to stick the landing. You want the story to come out the way it looks in your head—which is rude, because in your head it’s already perfect.

And yet… I love it.

I love it in the way you love something that tests you. The way you love a story that won’t leave you alone. The way you love a process that is equal parts art, chaos, and “please don’t crash, please don’t crash, please don’t crash.”

Because the love part is this: when a story hits, it’s not a vague idea. It’s a whole experience.

It’s like having the story I'm picturing stuck in my head—scenes, tone, tension, the little expressions on people’s faces, the exact way the air feels in the room when something goes wrong.

And the drive comes from wanting to get that story out of my skull and onto the page—the story I'm picturing, right there on the paper—so you (my reading friends) can see it, and then other readers can see exactly what I dream and picture, too.

I’m currently living in the land of late nights, second-guessing, and matcha-fueled determination. And I’m close—like, so close.

The Big Win: The Draft is DONE!

My current Big Win is simple and huge at the same time:

Perfect? is officially drafted. The writing is finished.

Tiny Win: Editing Finish Line (Hopefully Friday)

Tiny Win update: I’m really hoping to have the book fully edited by the end of tomorrow (Friday). I’m currently in that hyper-specific editing zone where I’m hunting down consistency issues—the little details that love to shapeshift between chapters (names, timelines, who-knows-what someone was wearing three scenes ago, etc.).

And honestly? Editing is definitely not my favorite part of the process. I love the creating part. The editing part is more like… “let me lovingly wrestle this manuscript into behaving.”

Which means I’ve swapped the writing trenches for the editing trenches—the part where:

every scene gets questioned,
every line gets tightened,
and I suddenly want to re-outline the entire book as a form of procrastination disguised as “responsible planning.”

It’s exciting. It’s terrifying. It’s the kind of adrenaline that has me telling myself, “I’m just going to mark up a few pages,” and then—somehow—it’s midnight and I’m surrounded by stacks of paper like I’m building a fortress out of my own second-guessing.

For the next week, the vibe is very much: final editing sprint. Not in a cute, aesthetic way. In a “matcha in one hand, red pen in the other, pages everywhere, messy bun holding on for dear life, and I swear this makes sense” way.

And yes—it’s going to be chaotic. The kind of chaotic where I’m choosing edits over basically everything else. If your text gets answered slower, if the laundry becomes a conceptual art piece, if my social life goes into airplane mode… just know I’m not ignoring the world. I’m in a paper-stacked trench, trying to polish Perfect? into its sharpest final form.

The Matcha-Fueled Chaos (a.k.a. The Part No One Puts on Instagram)

This is the part of writing that looks like:

rereading the same paragraph 12 times and deciding it’s either brilliant or garbage (no in-between),
making a tiny change that somehow breaks three other scenes,
and going to bed thinking, “I nailed it,” then waking up thinking, “I have never written a word in my life.”

Also: the late nights. Not always because I’m behind, but because the story gets its claws in and refuses to let go. Sometimes the words show up at a reasonable hour. Sometimes they only arrive once the house is quiet and my brain decides 10:47 PM is the perfect time to solve the entire third act.

Writing is a balancing act between discipline and obsession. I’m doing my best to make it look graceful. It is not graceful. It is, however, happening.

The Deadline: Final Polish + Edits Finished by March 1st

Speaking of the calendar: my goal is to have all final polish and edits finished by March 1st.

Yes, I know. That’s soon. Yes, I did this to myself. Yes, I’m still doing it anyway.

Now that the draft is finished, the focus is 100% on edits. I like a deadline because it forces me to stop endlessly tinkering and actually land the plane. The plan is:

do a solid pass for continuity (because timelines are liars),
polish the horror elements so they feel intentional,
tighten the whole story until it clicks,
and clean up any last “wait… does this even make sense?” moments before they escape into the wild.

It’s a sprint, but it’s the kind of sprint where you can finally see the finish line and it makes you run harder.

Why I Love It Anyway (Even When It’s a Mess)

Because when it works—when a scene hits, when a twist snaps into place, when the ending suddenly feels inevitable in the best way—it’s magic.

It’s also personal. Writing asks for your attention, your patience, and your honesty. It asks you to keep showing up even when you’re tired, even when you’re not sure, even when you’re convinced the last chapter is going to take you out in a dramatic puff of smoke.

And then you show up anyway.

So that’s where I’m at: two chapters left, matcha-fueled chaos, and a March 1st finish line that I fully intend to cross—with messy hair, a heartfelt sigh, and probably a tiny victory dance.

The Reading Corner

When I’m not neck-deep in my own edits, I’m usually found with my nose in a book. I just finished devouring Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston and let me tell you—I ❤️❤️❤️ the ending! It was the perfect escape from my own paper-stacked fortress and kept me guessing until the very last page.

Now, I’ve just cracked open An Academic Affair by Jodi McAlister. It’s an academic rivals-to-lovers story, and I’m already hooked on the banter. It’s exactly the kind of palate cleanser I need while I polish the darker edges of Perfect?.

Become an ARC Reader for The Silent Victim!

Cory survived the war, but he might not survive the truth. On death row for a murder he can’t remember, Cory’s only hope lies in the blackouts that haunt him. For Michael, a lawyer driven by a brother’s legacy, the case is more than just justice—it’s an obsession.

The Silent Victim is a psychological thriller exploring PTSD, narcissism, and the weight of the past. If you love dark, character-driven suspense, I'd love for you to join the ARC team!

⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: This book contains scenes of graphic gore and visceral violence.

Special Sale Alert 🔥

If you’ve been meaning to grab The Silent Victim, this is your sign: it’ll be on sale for just $0.99 from March 24th to March 30th. (Yes, seriously—less than a fancy matcha.)

Guest Spotlight

In Frontier Vengeance (Book 4), Danny Coogan is now working as a US Marshal, and he is within weeks of becoming a father for the first time. During a takedown of a fugitive, he makes a grisly discovery: a body, and it's the son of someone he knows and works with. Thus begins an off-the-books investigation that leads him to millions of dollars in stolen money, an entire collection of dead bodies, and an ultimate showdown with an adversary determined not to be taken alive.

Author Love & A Big Thank You!

If you're looking for a thriller that scratches that dark, unsettling, can't-stop-thinking-about-it itch, check out Fixed Point by Lynn M. Kristopher. It’s a genre-bending debut that blends psychological suspense with speculative twists, challenging the boundaries of fate and free will. It’s the perfect read if you like layered characters and a taste for the uncanny.

And seriously—a big thank you to Lynn for recently featuring The Silent Victim in her newsletter. It’s honestly so awesome to have supportive fellow authors in the thriller community.

Let's Connect!

Want to chat about psychological thrillers, writing, or your latest book obsession? I'd love to hear from you!

Discord: Join our community
Facebook: T.C. Shadowbrook on Facebook
Instagram: @tcshadowbrook
LinkedIn: Connect on LinkedIn

P.S. Be honest: are you a “deadline demon” (affectionate) or a “wait, why did I just deep-clean the fridge?” finisher? Drop a comment or message me: I actually read and respond to them all!

There's a debate in the reading community that refuses to die: audiobooks vs ebooks. Which one is "real" reading? Which one helps you retain more? Which one is better for your TBR pile that's currently threatening to topple over?

Here’s my honest take: I’m firmly Team Audiobook.

I used to love the feel of a hardback in my hands: the weight, the paper, the whole ritual. But eye strain has made physical reading a major struggle for me, even with reading glasses. These days, audiobooks are my lifeline for staying immersed in stories.

And just to make it crystal clear: I do use ebooks when I’m traveling or on the road, because they’re easier to carry. But day-to-day? I’m still primarily Team Audiobook. If my eyes are having a rough day, listening is how I stay in the story.

Now, if you’re trying to figure out which format fits your reading goals, let’s break it down.

When Audiobooks Win

Audiobooks are magic for one specific reason: they let you read when you can’t actually read.

For me, that’s not just about a busy schedule: it’s about my eyes. When eye strain flares up, sitting down with print (even a gorgeous hardback) stops being relaxing and starts being a fight. Audiobooks keep me in the story anyway, and honestly? That’s why I ride so hard for them.

Doing dishes? Audiobook. Folding laundry? Audiobook. Making dinner? Audiobook. And especially the treadmill: audiobooks are my favorite way to distract myself while I get my steps in. Commuting to work? Audiobook. Going for a walk because your body is staging a revolt after hours at your desk? Audiobook.

I can't count how many thrillers I've "read" while doing dishes or driving to the grocery store. If I had to sit down with a physical book every single time, my reading count would be tragic. Audiobooks turn dead time into book time, and that's a game-changer for busy readers and writers alike.

The other huge win? Accessibility. For people with dyslexia, visual impairments, or conditions that make traditional reading difficult, audiobooks open up entire worlds of stories. That matters. And even if you don’t think of yourself as someone who “needs” accessibility features, eye strain can sneak up on you fast. Audiobooks are the workaround that keeps the story alive.

The Multitasking Reality

Here's the catch: multitasking while listening to an audiobook can affect retention. If you're listening to a complex thriller with seventeen suspects and a twisty timeline while also trying to parallel park, you might miss something important.

But for leisure reading? The difference is minimal. Your brain is remarkably good at following a story even when your hands are busy. Just maybe don't try to absorb a dense fantasy epic with a 40-page appendix while assembling IKEA furniture.

When Ebooks Win

Ebooks shine when you need control.

Even though I’m primarily Team Audiobook, I’ll admit ebooks are fantastic when you’re studying something, whether it's a craft book on writing suspense or a nonfiction deep dive. And when I’m on the road, ebooks are honestly the easiest option to toss in a bag and go. Ebooks (or physical books) give you the ability to flip back and forth. You can highlight. You can search for a specific term. You can reread a paragraph without fumbling with the audio controls.

This is especially true for complex fiction. If you're reading a thriller with multiple timelines, unreliable narrators, or a cast of characters with similar names, being able to glance back at earlier chapters is invaluable. With an audiobook, you're stuck rewinding and hoping you land in the right spot.

The Visual Element

Some books just don't translate well to audio. If a thriller includes maps, photographs, letters, or interior artwork, you're missing out with an audiobook. I've listened to books where the narrator says, "See the diagram on page 142," and I'm like... cool, I'm driving. Guess I'll just imagine it?

If the book has visual components that matter to the story, go with the ebook (or physical copy).

My Take as a Writer (and Obsessive Reader)

As a writer (and an obsessive reader), I’m going to say the quiet part out loud: I’m Team Audiobook, and I’m not pretending to be “format neutral.”

I used to be a hardback girl. I loved the feel of a physical book: the texture, the weight, the whole vibe. But eye strain has turned physical reading into a major struggle for me, even with glasses. Audiobooks didn’t just become convenient; they became my way to keep reading at all.

And ebooks? They’re useful, and I do use them when I’m traveling or on the road because they’re so easy to carry. But if I’m being honest about my default setting, it’s audio. If my eyes are acting up, I’m taking in the story by listening.

So yes: I’ll still talk about the strengths of ebooks because they do have them. But when it comes to my real life reading? Audiobooks are my lifeline.

Guest Sportlight

Looking for your next read after you decide between audio or ebook? Check out The One Who Smiles by Lynn M. Kristopher.

It’s a pulse-pounding psychological thriller featuring Rachel Quinn, an FBI agent on a hunt she can’t ignore. If you like tense vibes, high stakes, and that “one more chapter” feeling, this one’s worth a peek.

Grab it here: Click Here

Now if you'll excuse me, I have a thriller waiting for me: on audiobook, because I have laundry to fold and a TBR pile that isn't getting any smaller.

-T.C. Shadowbrook

Let's Connect!

Want to hang out between chapters? Come say hi. I’m always down to talk thrillers, what you’re listening to lately, and all the little writing/reading obsessions that keep us up past bedtime.

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P.S. If you're looking for your next dark thriller read, check out my books.

Sprints, Secrets, and the Book 1- Chapter Countdown

People think the hardest part of writing a trilogy is plotting it. Mapping out three books, making sure the timeline doesn't fall apart, and ensuring a throwaway line in Book 1 pays off in a massive way by Book 3. That's the stuff that keeps you up at night, right?
Wrong.

The hardest part is the shift from architect to inhabitant. You go from building the blueprint to actually living inside the house. And let me tell you, moving day is terrifying.

Tiny Win: The Blueprint is Done

This week's win? The trilogy planning is officially complete. The full series twists are locked in, the long-game turns are mapped, and the character arcs are ready to implode in all the right ways. I've been living in spreadsheets and timelines for weeks, and now it's time to actually write Book 1—all 29 chapters of it.

So what's the plan? Writing sprints.

And before you picture me lacing up running shoes and doing laps around the block, let me clarify: I'm talking about typing sprints, not cardio. I promise no track suits were harmed in the making of this draft.

What Are Writing Sprints (and Why Am I Obsessed)?

A writing sprint is simple: you set a timer, you silence your inner editor, and you just go. No stopping to fix a typo. No agonizing over whether "gaze" or "stare" is the better word choice. You just get words on the page, even if they're messy, even if they're imperfect, even if you cringe a little while typing them.

The goal was 12 chapters by Friday, no editing, no second-guessing, just raw first-draft energy—and it is officially FINISHED. A whole day early. I would do a victory lap, but let’s be honest: these are writing sprints, not running. The closest I’m getting to cardio is aggressively refilling my matcha and pacing while I contemplate my timeline.

The chapters are gloriously chaotic. There are placeholder names like "VILLAIN GUY" and notes to myself in all caps like "FIX THIS LATER, IT MAKES NO SENSE." But they exist. And that's what matters.

Why sprints? Because perfection is the enemy of progress. If I stop to polish every sentence, I'll still be on Chapter 1 in six months. The dark, twisty story in my head needs to get out before it drives me completely insane.

The Book 1 -Chapter Countdown

Here's the thing about writing a trilogy: every chapter is a domino. You can't write Chapter 15 in Book 2 until you've nailed the setup in Chapter 8 of Book 1. You can't write the big reveal in Book 3 if you haven't planted the seeds in the opening chapters.

So yes, I’m sprinting through Book 1 in order—all 29 chapters—one sprint at a time. Meanwhile, I’m still keeping an eye on the bigger trilogy flow, because those Book 2 and Book 3 setups don’t plant themselves.

It's equal parts exhilarating and exhausting. Some days, I sit down, and the words pour out like I'm channeling the characters directly. Other days, it feels like pulling teeth. But the countdown keeps me going. Every chapter I finish is one step closer to the end.

And honestly? I kind of love the pressure. There's something about a hard deadline that makes the brain kick into overdrive. Sleep becomes optional. Matcha becomes a food group.

What I'm Reading: Anatomy of an Alibi

In between sprints, I've been reading Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston. It's a masterclass in layering secrets and misdirection. The kind of book where you think you've figured it out, and then, nope, you were completely wrong.

I'm drawn to books like this because they remind me why I love writing dark psychological thrillers in the first place. There's a puzzle at the heart of every good mystery, and watching a skilled author pull off a twist you didn't see coming is like watching a magician reveal the trick. You're impressed, a little frustrated you didn't catch it, and immediately want to try it yourself.

If you're looking for a book that'll keep you guessing, grab this one. Fair warning: you might lose track of time and accidentally stay up until 3 a.m. Ask me how I know.

Come Hang Out on Discord (I'll Actually Be There)

Here's the deal: I'm deep in the writing zone right now, but I also know that staring at a blank page for hours can make you feel like you're slowly losing your mind. So I'm inviting you to come ask me questions on Discord while I'm working.

Seriously. Pop in, ask me anything: about the books, about writing, about why I choose to write such dark stuff, and I'll respond right away. Unless I'm sleeping. Which, let's be real, isn't happening much during a Book 1 -chapter countdown.

Think of it as a live "ask me anything" session, except it's happening in real-time while I'm actively drafting. Want to know how I come up with my twists? Ask. Curious about my writing process? Ask. Want to know if my characters are based on real people? (They're not, but the answer is still entertaining.) Ask.

Join the Shadowbrook Discord here: Discord

I'd love to see you there. Plus, it's a great distraction when I inevitably hit a scene that makes me question all my life choices.

The Plan From Here

This week’s goal is officially in the bag: 12 chapters DONE—and yes, a day early. I’m celebrating like a responsible adult (which means I stared at the word count, whispered “wow,” and immediately started thinking about the next deadline).

Because next week? The stakes are higher. The new target is 15 chapters. Same rules: sprints, zero mercy, and absolutely no pretending I’m going to “just tweak a sentence real quick” (lies).

Quick fun update from the writer cave: I have zero weekend plans, which means I’m absolutely going to get a head start on that 15-chapter goal over the next couple of days. You know the vibe—when there’s no social calendar, there’s only the story. (And maybe some snacks I can eat one-handed while I type like a gremlin.)

And next Friday is going to be the start of the editing marathon—not the fussy line-by-line perfection stuff (yet), but the big-picture “does this trilogy flow seamlessly?” kind of pass. Timeline checks. Continuity checks. Making sure the dominoes fall the way they’re supposed to. Turning "VILLAIN GUY" into an actual name. Making sure Book 2 doesn’t quietly set itself on fire halfway through.

The only challenge? Editing means I have to resist getting swept away by the story I just wrote. Because it is so easy to sit down “to edit” and then suddenly I’m basically just flipping pages like a reader, lost in the world I built, cheering for my own twists… and accomplishing exactly zero actual edits.

But for right now, I’m taking the win. Then I’m setting the timer again.

Links & Resources:
Subscribe: Join Here
Reviewer Copy:Request a Free Copy of The Silent Victim
Discord: Join the Community

Until next time, stay curious (and maybe gram some extra macha...or chai).

T.C. Shadowbrook

Behind the Scenes: Why I Write About the Dark Side of Human Nature

People ask me all the time: "Why do you write such dark stuff?"

The simplest answer? Because this is exactly the kind of stuff I want to read. I’ve always been drawn to stories that aren’t afraid to peek under the rug and see what’s being hidden. When I pick up a book, I want to be challenged, I want my pulse to quicken, and I want to explore those "what if" scenarios that most people are too polite to talk about.

There is a specific kind of "slippery slope" that fascinates me. We like to think of "villains" as monsters, but the most terrifying characters are the ones who started out just like us—until one bad choice or one hidden secret spiraled out of control. I don’t write about darkness to be morbid; I write about it because it’s where the most interesting psychological truths are hidden. By inhabiting these characters, I get to explore the human reason why someone would do the unthinkable. It gives us all a safe space to explore our own shadows from the comfort of a reading chair.

Tiny Win: Milestone Reached!

The pre-order links for the entire series are officially live on Amazon! There is something so satisfying about seeing those "Available Now" and "Pre-order" buttons side-by-side. It makes the whole journey feel incredibly real. You can find them all on my Amazon author page now.

What I’m Working On: The Trilogy Puzzle

I am officially wrapping up the heavy lifting for the trilogy planning today. Writing a trilogy is like building a three-story house where you have to make sure the foundation on the first floor can support a surprise balcony on the third. I’ve been obsessing over timelines and consistency—making sure a casual mention in Book 1 pays off in a massive way by the end of Book 3. It’s been a puzzle of twists and turns, and I’m thrilled to say I’m starting the actual writing phase today!

What I’m Reading: A Classic Deep Dive

I’ve been reading American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis. It’s a masterclass in unreliable narration and the extreme edge of the dark side. It’s definitely heavy, but as a writer, it’s fascinating to see how Ellis maintains that clinical, detached tone while describing utter chaos.

Question for You:

What is the one "twist" in a book or movie that you never saw coming? I’m always looking for new ways to keep you guys guessing, so let me know over on Discord!

Links & Resources:

Subscribe: Get exclusive updates first: Join here
Reviewer Copy: Read my work early: Request a Copy
Shadowbrook Discord: Come chat with us: Join the Community

Until next time, stay curious (and maybe keep the lights on).

T.C. Shadowbrook

Big News, New Blogs, and Planning a Trilogy!

T.C. Shadowbrook successfully set up her Goodreads Author account, Amazon Author account, and the Discord server.

Hey there, fellow book lovers!

If you're reading this, you've just witnessed history in the making. Okay, maybe that's a little dramatic, but this is genuinely exciting for me, this is my very first blog post on my Goodreads Author Page!

I've been wanting to connect with readers in a more personal, ongoing way for some time. Social media is great and all, but there's something special about Goodreads. This is where the real book people hang out. You know what I mean, the people who have "just one more chapter" syndrome, who have a TBR pile that's less of a pile and more of a small mountain, and who get genuinely excited about a well-executed plot twist.

So, welcome to my little corner of Goodreads. Pull up a chair, grab your beverage of choice (mine's matcha, always matcha), and let's chat.

Why Goodreads? Why Now?

I'll be honest with you. I've been building my author platform piece by piece, and for a while, I wasn't sure where blogging fit into the picture. My website is live, and I wanted a place to talk directly to readers without the noise of algorithm-driven social media.

Then it hit me: Goodreads is literally built for readers and authors to connect. Why wasn't I using this already?

So here we are. I'm committing to sharing updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, what I'm reading, and all the little things that make this writing journey so wild and wonderful. Consider this your backstage pass.

The Big News: I'm an AutoCrit Featured Author!

Okay, let's get to the really exciting stuff. I recently got some news that genuinely made me do a little happy dance in my living room.

I've been selected as a Featured Author by AutoCrit!

For those who might not know, AutoCrit is a fantastic editing software that a lot of authors (myself included) use to polish their manuscripts. Being featured by them is such an honor, and honestly, it feels like a wonderful validation of all the hard work I've been putting into my craft.

I've been using AutoCrit as part of my writing process, and it's been a game-changer for catching those sneaky overused words and tightening up my prose. If you're a writer and you haven't checked it out, I definitely recommend giving it a look.

But yeah, Featured Author! Still pinching myself a little bit.

What I'm Working On: Perfect? (Book 1 of the Trilogy)

Now let's talk about what's consuming most of my creative energy these days.

Right now, my full focus is outlining Perfect? - and I already have the first line.

Without giving too much away (because where's the fun in that?), I can tell you that this trilogy is going to be a dark, twisty ride. We're talking secrets, manipulation, and that creeping sense of dread that makes you want to sleep with the lights on. You know, the good stuff.

Right now, I'm in the planning and outlining phase for all three books. Yes, all three. At the same time.

I know some authors are "pantsers" who write by the seat of their pants and let the story take them wherever it wants to go. I admire that, I really do. But for a trilogy with interconnected threads, hidden clues, and payoffs that span multiple books? I need a plan.

So my current setup looks like this: a giant spreadsheet with columns for each book, rows for major plot beats (inciting incident, midpoint, dark moment, climax, all that good stuff), and color-coded notes everywhere. It's chaotic, but it's my chaos.

And yes, there's always a cup of matcha beside me while I work. Always.

The goal is to make sure the tension builds across all three books, that every twist earns its place, and that by the time you finish Book 3, you'll want to immediately go back and reread Book 1 to catch all the things you missed.

No pressure, right?

Behind the Scenes: Planning a Trilogy is...A Lot

I won't sugarcoat it, planning a trilogy is intense.

Every decision I make in Book 1 has ripple effects. Plant a clue too obviously? Readers will figure it out way too early. Bury it too deep? It won't land when it's supposed to. And don't even get me started on keeping track of character arcs across three books while also juggling my Master's degree studies.

But here's the thing: I love it.

There's something deeply satisfying about seeing the puzzle pieces come together. When I figure out how a seemingly small moment in Book 1 is going to explode into something massive in Book 3? Chef's kiss.

Quick question for you: Do you prefer your thrillers slow burn and creepy, or fast and twisty? I'm genuinely curious, drop a comment and let me know!

What I'm Reading: The Man No One Believed by Joshua Sharpe

Between writing sessions and grad school, I always try to keep a book going. Reading is fuel for writing, after all, and it is relaxing, yet tense.

Right now, I'm reading The Man No One Believed by Joshua Sharpe.

It's an investigative retell, and it's definitely pulling me in. There's something about the way Sharpe unravels the story that keeps those thriller gears turning in my brain. It's the kind of book that makes me want to take notes, not because I'm studying it, but because I keep thinking, "Oh, that's clever. How did he do that?"

If you're looking for your next read and you enjoy investigative narratives with layers to unpack, I'd recommend giving this one a shot.

I'll try to share what I'm reading in future posts, too. Consider it a little book club moment between us.

Book Spotlight: The Silent Victim

Speaking of thrillers, if you haven't checked out my book The Silent Victim yet, this is your sign.
It's a fast, twisty thriller packed with secrets, danger, and that one question you can't stop asking: who can you trust?

If you enjoy stories that keep you guessing, where every character might be hiding something, and where the tension doesn't let up until the very last page: this one's for you.

You can find it on my Goodreads page, and I'd love to hear what you think if you've already read it. Reviews and ratings genuinely mean the world to indie authors like me. They help other readers discover the book, and they make my entire day when I read them.

No pressure though. Just, you know, mild encouragement. 😉

Let's Stay Connected

This is just the beginning. I'm planning to post here regularly with updates on the trilogy, more behind-the-scenes content, reading recommendations, and maybe some random thoughts about the writing life.

If you want even more updates and a chance to hang out with me and other readers, I also have a Discord community where we chat about books, writing, and life in general. It's casual, it's fun, and I'd love to see you there.

Thanks for being here for this very first Goodreads blog post. It means more than you know.

Now, back to my spreadsheet. Book 1 isn't going to write itself.

Talk soon,

T.C. Shadowbrook