Turning Corners

by Mike Smith

On the surface, Les and Nora Zalleo are winning at life. Nora’s nonprofit is on the cusp of a major expansion, and the couple is throwing a party to celebrate. But beneath their seemingly loving marriage lurks a dangerous fault line. Les has a secret he's keeping from his wife. And Nora has a secret, too.

Miles away, a young woman is found dead beneath her apartment balcony. Newly minted Detective Charlie DeMassey is tasked with uncovering what happened. Who was this young woman, and how did she meet such a tragic fate? Was it an accident? Suicide? Murder?

As these characters' stories unfold, their intersections prove to be more than just coincidence. Turning Corners reveals the consequences of hidden feelings, hidden motives, and hidden truths.

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2025

About the author

Mike Smith is an author, comedy writer and screenwriter. His comedic writing has most often been seen in the legendary Friar's Club Roasts, writing material for events honoring Martin Scorsese, Robert De Niro, Jack Black, Billy Crystal, and more. He has written and directed multiple short films which have been shown in various film festivals across the country. He is also the author of the coming-of-age novel "Miss Mezzanine", which IndieReader.com rated 4.5 out of 5 stars, describing it as "a lovely little book about the potential of turning points, romantic whims, and the willingness to be open to change and new experiences."

Reviews

[Lindsey Herd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an absolute page-turner from start to finish! The writing is immersive, the pacing is perfect, and the final reveal was both satisfying and completely unpredictable. This is a must-read! Highly recommend!

[Kaitlyn Landram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dare I say, a perfect murder mystery.

[Lindsay C · Rating 5 out of 5]

You are instantly captivated and feel a deep connection to the characters from the very beginning of Turning Corners. The intriguing undercurrent of a whodunnit mystery keeps you on your toes, eager for more twists and turns. Smith's masterful writing enables you to vividly visualize the story at every turn, leaving you yearning for the next chapter. This is yet another brilliantly crafted work from a truly talented author.

[Alyssa Fazio-Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smith’s creativity, imagination and ability to depict everything in such great detail are just a few of the many reasons I was able to finish Turning Corners in less than 24 hours! I throughly enjoyed this story and highly recommend to anyone that loves a book filled with who dunnit energy. My only regret was not reading it sooner! Bravo Smith!

[Lucie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Turning Corners? More like turning pages so fast because this book kept me captivated from start to finish

[Katlyn Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t remember the last time I picked up a book and simply had to finish it in just a few sittings. Turning Corners is a captivating who-done-it story infused with characters that have real, raw and engaging emotional depth. Such a thoughtful and excellently tied together story.

[David Riehl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mike created fascinating characters through unique perspectives. The mystery evolved much differently than expected, through the exploration of the character's lives and personalities. A wonderful mystery and dive into real human lives and struggles.

[Michelle Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down once I started it. The author kept me engaged and guessing with every page. I highly recommend Turning Corners to anyone seeking a thought-provoking and immersive read.

[Lorraine Landram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Not only an enthralling mystery but also highly realistic development of human character.