For Acquiring Editors

Description:

SPYMASTER is a middle grade historical graphic novel which tells the true story of Benjamin Tallmadge, one of the Revolutionary War’s most pivotal Spymasters. Benjamin headed George Washington's Culper Spy Ring, which Washington relied on. 

Haunted by the deaths of both his brother and his friend Nathan Hale, Benjamin is spurred by a thirst for revenge. He learns too late that what you wish for may become the most horrific thing of all. 

SPYMASTER is the untold story of vengeance, morality and the uncovering of Benedict Arnold's treason. Readers will be riveted by the intricate spy tactics and moved by the moral conflicts that Benjamin tackles throughout his life. The book follows him from his childhood as the son of a pacifist preacher through his time as one of the key players in the Revolutionary War. 

If you're seeking gripping middle grade social studies tie ins for your publishing house, this is for you!

The inspiration:

By the Sword, my first published book, is about Benjamin Tallmadge's experiences at the Battle of Long Island. I was so moved by this young man's emotions and virtue that I had to write his story. Years passed, and I wrote Revolutionary Rogues, about traitorous Benedict Arnold. But I had to leave out Benjamin Tallmadge's crucial involvement in that story--and all his stirring emotions . I realized that Benjamin's life experiences  and lessons were extraordinary and had to be shared. I had been writing scripts, and I decided to try my hand at a graphic novel with the screenwriting program. It didn't take long to realize that this was the perfect way to portray the action and poignancy inside this gripping true story.  

Description:

Evolution is a novel about truth and consequence. Seventeen-year-old Darwin was abused by his alcoholic mother growing up. He received no love or affection, and he treats women as he had been treated —with hate and violence. When he meets Karyn, the sixteen-year-old half sister he never knew he had, he discovers he’s capable of caring. But he’s still filled with rage at the father who left him at his mother’s mercy. He wants love, but he craves revenge. Which emotion is stronger?

Evolution confronts the darkness lurking in everyone, and tears down the barriers dividing “us” and “them.” We are all of the same descent.

The Inspiration:

I wasn't looking to write this story, but Darwin spoke to me when I was turning the corner to my street. I had the stirrings of a story brewing, with the opening line "Duct tape is good." I knew the character was an antihero, and I was excited for it. But when I met Darwin, I realized that I cared about him, no matter what he'd done. This was the most upsetting and challenging thing to happen in my writing career. Writing this manuscript made me face the brutal truth about humanity--an inevitable tragedy.

I thought the character's name was Daryl, but he told me his name was Darwin. I responded, "Then I guess the name of this story is Evolution."

Of all my compelling manuscripts, I consider this my greatest work.