Introduction
Welcome to another edition of "Author Spotlight"! Today, I'm excited to feature T. N. Trainer, an author who blends paranormal suspense, urban fantasy, and mystery into thrilling and engaging stories. Her Cami Mitchell series, beginning with the novel Spirit Beacon, introduces readers to a world where ghosts are real, and the living must confront not only supernatural threats but also the complexities of their own lives. T. N. Trainer brings a unique background, global perspective, and lifelong passion for storytelling to her work.
A Worldly Perspective: T. N. Trainer's Journey to Writing
T. N. Trainer's path to becoming an author is as diverse as the genres she writes. Her father's work took the family to many countries when she was growing up. As she explains, "I lived in Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and that definitely shaped me as a person. You really learn to appreciate everything you have when you see so many people who have so little. You also learn to appreciate other cultures, and their history and beauty." She recalls fond memories of her time in India: marveling at the Taj Mahal, experiencing the thrill of riding elephants in Khana game reserve, and trekking through the Thar Desert on camels.
After graduating college with a major in English, T. N. Trainer found a way to combine her passion for storytelling with her love for the natural world. She joined an educational multimedia company, a role that took her on extensive travels throughout the National Parks of the Western United States. Immersing herself in these majestic landscapes, she worked as a photographer, videographer, writer, and narrator, capturing their beauty and sharing it with others. This experience ignited a lifelong passion for National Park conservation.
Writing, however, has always been a constant. As a child, she wrote poetry and short stories. After becoming a mother, she turned her attention to longer-form works, such as novels. While she initially explored science fiction/fantasy and paranormal romance, she found her niche in paranormal suspense with the Cami Mitchell series. Her current life in Southern California is a blend of family, writing, and bringing these stories to life.
The Cami Mitchell Series: Ghosts, Mysteries, and Small-Town Secrets
T. N. Trainer's Cami Mitchell Series dives into the world of the paranormal, blending suspense, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.
- Spirit Beacon (Book 1): This debut novel introduces us to Cami Mitchell, a grad student who has seen ghosts since she was a child. Seeking refuge from the constant presence of spirits, Cami finds peace in the small town of Santa Theresa. But, as the blurb asks, "What would you do to save everything you love?" The arrival of strange, new specters puts Cami and her best friend, Kat, on a collision course with a sinister mystery that threatens not only the ghosts Cami has come to know and love, but the entire town. The story promises a thrilling ride, with the ultimate stakes: "Now it’s up to Cami and Kat to find a way to save the ghosts, and defeat an evil entity, before it destroys Santa Theresa, and everyone they love. Even if it kills them."
- Spirit Whispers (Book 2 - Coming later in 2025): The adventure continues in Spirit Whispers, which is already completed and in the beta reading stage. This highly anticipated sequel promises to delve deeper into the mysteries of Santa Theresa and further explore Cami's unique abilities.
Beyond Cami Mitchell: Exploring New Worlds
T. N. Trainer isn't stopping with the Cami Mitchell Series. She's also currently working on the first book in a new urban fantasy werewolf shifter series, which is also in beta reads and planned for release later in 2025. This demonstrates her commitment to exploring different facets of the paranormal and urban fantasy genres, promising readers even more exciting stories to come.
What Readers Are Saying About Spirit Beacon:
T. N. Trainer's debut novel has clearly captured readers' imaginations with its blend of suspense, mystery, and the paranormal. Here's what one reviewer had to say:
- "This ghostly thriller was very entertaining and different from most other ghost books. It was fast-paced and kept me wanting to read more each chapter I read. I loved the characters of the way they handled the mysterious ghosts. The storyline was interesting and suspenseful in not knowing what the ghosts were going to do or not to the protagonist, her friend, and the danger to the whole town. Author, T.N. Trainer did a splendid job in creating a great storyline that keeps the suspense going until the very end. I would like to read more from this author." - Shelly Neinast, 5 Stars, Goodreads
- "I absolutely love stories where heroines see ghosts (Medium, the Charley Davidson series etc) so I was eager to read this book and I was not disappointed... I really appreciate the attention to detail when it came to worldbuilding, little touches like getting her witch best friend to bind her house and workplace so she wasn't bother by unwanted ghosts there... Some of the writing was really powerful, such as the discription of a ghost trying to transition... Overall it was great read, perfect for fans of small town mysteries, or programs like Meduim and Ghost Whisperer. I really look forward to reading more of this series." - LV, 4 Stars, Goodreads
- "A fascinating story that will have the reader eager to find the culprit or culprits." - Toni, 5 Stars, Goodreads
A Call to Connection
I encourage you to explore the chilling and captivating world of T. N. Trainer's Cami Mitchell Series. You can connect with her on her website, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky.
You can purchase her book through the Amazon affiliate link below:
This book is also free to read with a Kindle Unlimited subscription!
And be sure to keep an eye out for Spirit Whispers and her upcoming urban fantasy shifter series, both coming later in 2025!
After reading, consider leaving a review on Amazon or Goodreads to share your thoughts and support her work.
Conclusion
T. N. Trainer is a rising voice in the paranormal suspense and urban fantasy genres, bringing a fresh perspective and a chilling blend of mystery and the supernatural to her Cami Mitchell Series. Her dedication to crafting engaging stories, even while juggling the demands of life, is inspiring. I encourage you to explore the spooky world of Spirit Beacon and look forward to the upcoming Spirit Whispers, as well as her new urban fantasy shifter series. T. N. Trainer is an author to watch, and I'm excited to see what thrilling tales she shares with us next.
Thanks for reading!
*This post contains affiliate links. For more information about my affiliate relationships, please see my Affiliate Disclosure.