Leaping Into the Abyss

by Christopher CJX Joseph

Nadonis Sebastian lost for four years, returns from being officially declared dead, finding herself suspected of the murder of her affair, Mitchell Gardner, and embroiled in a current web of deceit containing damaging information involving her former boss, District Attorney Christian Phillips, and her ex-husband, City Planner Cecil Sebastian, currently caught in a hush money scandal.

In the lush, uptown-funk valleys of Southwest Ohio, something in the water doesn't compute as the rebirthed mother of three, educated, ambitious, and successful black woman must take back her life and discover the conspiracy against her that threatens her existence.

The renewing strength of water plays a crucial backdrop to the soul of this adventure.

365 pages, Paperback

Published January 10, 2025

About the author

"Stories fill my mind just as sand fills a vase."

My writing inspiration is sprawling novels that sweep readers away in atmospheric murder mysteries, thrilling adventures, political corruption, fraud, and love lost. 'Leaping Into the Abyss' is comparable to Stieg Larsson's Millennium series or James Patterson's Alex Cross series, with a touch of magical realism and cultural elements, such as my hometown hero Virginia Hamilton's The House of Dies Drear.

I am the self-published author of three additional novels: the action/drama Roadkill Pathfinder Pt. I and Roadkill Crossroads Pt. II and the family drama Eat@Zeke's. I first self-published periodicals when I was fourteen.

Discover more at Landofunk.com.

Christopher Joseph currently resides in Ohio with his family.

Review of Eat@Zeke's by Chandra Claypool of 'Where the Reader Grows" Blog, March 2019.
"The characters are a lot of fun, and I love that they all center around Mama. Their closeness because of her is on point. The community as a whole is fantastic. I love that you're doing something different, so the work stands out!"

Reviews

[Sophie James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leaping Into the Abyss by Christopher CJX Joseph is a gripping and emotionally charged story of redemption, deception, and resilience. Nadonis Sebastian’s return from presumed death thrusts her into a storm of lies, suspicion, and hidden agendas. Set against the vivid backdrop of Southwest Ohio, the novel brilliantly weaves mystery, politics, and personal rebirth into a thrilling narrative. Joseph’s storytelling captures both the intensity of the plot and the spiritual symbolism of water as a force of renewal. This book is a must read for fans of suspenseful, character driven dramas that explore strength, truth, and the fight for survival.

[Mercy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an absolute page-turner! Nadonis Sebastian’s return from the dead is a gripping premise, and the twists that follow are nothing short of breathtaking. The mix of political scandal, murder suspicion, and deep personal stakes kept me hooked from start to finish. The lush Ohio setting, woven with the symbolic strength of water, gives the story both atmosphere and soul. A powerful, thrilling, and empowering read that blends suspense, drama, and resilience in all the right ways. Highly recommended!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best mystery/suspence I've read this year. Touching and well paced thriller that gives you "I hope this becomes a movie" vibes. No notes. 5 stars. Left no crumbs.

[Joe Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite honestly one of the best fiction books I've read in a while! The action kicks off quickly and keeps you captivated throughout the story making you want to keep reading! The protagonist is simply stunning, and one could feel her determination to clear her name and figure out who killed her boyfriend. You felt the story in real time surrounding recent events such as COVID19, the elections, and political landscape. Not to mention the tie in with leap year! And that ending! Who knew Ohio was rife with so much drama! I can't wait for the sequel!