Crime Fiction Yesterday Rising: Three Crime Novellas by Stephen Burdick

Two close calls with death and the lingering guilt he harbors over the injury to Detective David Sizemore compounds Joe Hampton’s ongoing attempt to come to terms with the passing of his wife. Persuaded to assume the role of consultant to the homicide division soon has him and Detective Carly Truffant on the trail of a serial killer who mutilates his victims. Uncovering the identity of the killer proves as difficult as understanding why rookie Detective Dani Mc Masters resents him being a part of the team. An unexpected turn of events finds Joe and McMasters trapped and fighting for their lives.

Then, his dream of a peaceful getaway is shattered when he finds himself in the middle of an investigation during his visit to a small community on the coast of southwest Florida. The help of a stranger before joining forces with the lead detective doesn’t keep him from the prospect of winding up in a watery grave.

Upon his return home, Joe helps Detective Truffant trace the origin of human bones uncovered on a local beach. As they dig deeper, they come to realize that the skeleton may have a connection to the disappearance of an aunt that Truffant never knew.

TheBigThrill caught up to author Stephen Burdick for a quick chat about his latest thriller, YESTERDAY RISING, which has been hailed as one part Bones, one part Cold Case Files, and one part Criminal Minds:

Stephen Burdick

What do you hope readers will take away from this book?

Dedication and perseverance, along with the help of good friends, will get one through the toughest of times.

Which took shape first: plot, character, or setting?

Setting—Florida provides many different settings for all genres.

What authors or books have influenced your career as a writer, and why?

Randy Wayne White—I can’t get enough of his Doc Ford series. I’ve spoken to him at book signings and he’s been very supportive and inspirational.
John Grisham—I enjoy his many characters and detailed stories.
Robert B. Parker—I find the unique character of Jesse Stone and his troubled life to be fascinating.

Stephen Burdick was born and raised in Florida. He is a retired civil servant currently living in the Tampa Bay area. He enjoys getting together with friends and attending various events.