A CIA code name, a marriage-threatening secret, and a Duran Duran song that starts appearing in the strangest places—Maria Denison turns all three into a fast-paced, character-driven suspense story you will not predict by chapter eight. Sarah sits down with Maria Denison to unpack the real-life spark behind her genre-bending novel, why she calls it thriller-mystery-suspense with a preternatural twist, and how she built a story where the romance is a vehicle, not the engine. If you love twisty books with hidden clues, emotional stakes, and a heroine whose past refuses to stay buried, this one belongs on your list. Maria shares:

• Why she is re-marketing her books away from romantic fantasy and urban fantasy
• How Cara Andre, a suburban mom and business owner, gets pulled back into a secret CIA life she left behind 15 years ago
• The moment a song becomes a warning, a clue, and a callback to a code name
• Why the story is built for readers who enjoy suspense, but do not need a heavy espionage manual
• How she hides clues in banter, humor, and the most irrelevant-seeming details

Maria also opens up about the childhood moment that nearly sent her to the CIA herself, the family dynamics that made that impossible, and the declassified research and real-world conversations that helped shape the book's atmosphere. That mix of personal fascination and careful digging gives the novel its edge, while keeping the focus on what matters most: a woman, a marriage, and a threat that can no longer stay secret. If you are drawn to page-turners with strong characters, layered tension, and the kind of mystery that rewards close listening, this episode is for you. It is especially timely for anyone interested in CIA stories, declassified history, and suspense that feels both smart and deeply human.

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After 15 years in traditional publishing, marketing books, Stephanie Moon now helps authors take charge of their own marketing by building meaningful relationships with readers and tackling the work publishers often leave to them.

In this episode of Unframed with Sarah, Stephanie shares practical strategies for authors at every stage of their careers to increase visibility, connect authentically with their audience, and build a sustainable writing career. Beyond the business of books, we get to know the person behind the expertise: what motivates Stephanie, what she’s learned along the way, and how she developed her impressive talent for growing dahlias.

It’s a conversation about the power of connection, the realities of being an author, and the unexpected passions that make us who we are.

Connect with Stephanie:

Website

Instagram

Substack

If you are interested in podcast guesting opportunities, join Unframed with Sarah on PodMatch!

Sandra Catania and Andrea Kimberly join Sarah to discuss the creation of their *Fortunes of Wisdom Oracle Deck* — bringing illustration, intuition, and storytelling together in a deck designed to inspire reflection and connection.

Join us for a conversation about spirituality, the process of creating an oracle deck, intuitive readings, and how art and creativity can help us make sense of our experiences.

Connect with the Guests!

https://linktr.ee/fortunesofwisdomoracle

If you are interested in podcast guesting opportunities, join Unframed with Sarah on PodMatch!

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