Introduction

In today's edition of "Author Spotlight", I'm featuring Vicki M. Taylor, a remarkable author who fearlessly explores the complexities of human experience across a wide range of genres. From dramatic fiction and suspenseful thrillers to heartfelt romance and even science fiction, Vicki's stories are united by their strong female characters, realistic situations, and a willingness to confront difficult issues head-on. As Vicki herself says, she lets her characters guide the story: "I listen and let them speak. We figure out the genre when the story ends."

From Challenges to Characters: Vicki M. Taylor's Writing Journey

Vicki M. Taylor's path to becoming an author is a testament to the power of channeling personal struggles into creative expression. She openly shares her ongoing battles with a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. These experiences, rather than defining her, have become a source of strength and insight, informing her writing and allowing her to create characters who grapple with complex emotions and difficult situations with authenticity and empathy. Her stories often explore themes of resilience, recovery, and the search for hope amidst adversity. In addition to writing, Vicki finds solace and joy in her family life. She lives in Florida with her husband and their beloved pets.

Exploring the Depths of Human Experience: Vicki M. Taylor's Novels and Novellas

Vicki M. Taylor's novels and novellas delve into complex relationships, difficult choices, and the search for hope amidst adversity. She tackles challenging topics with sensitivity and honesty, creating stories that resonate with readers on a deeply emotional level.

• Forever Until We Meet: This novel explores the challenges and vulnerabilities of online relationships. It follows Patricia, a woman navigating a lonely life in a small town after her daughter leaves home, as she ventures into the world of internet chat rooms. Her encounter with a seemingly charming "knight" of the digital realm leads to heartbreak and disappointment, but ultimately sets her on a path of self-discovery and a renewed understanding of love.

• Not Without Anna: This novel tackles the devastating impact of teenage death on a small Florida town. After a young girl drowns under questionable circumstances, and another teen commits suicide, the community must grapple with grief, guilt, and the search for answers. Not Without Anna explores the complexities of loss, the importance of communication, and the potential for healing within a community.

• Trust in the Wind: This novel centers on two individuals scarred by loss: Joanne, a young single mother fiercely protecting her independence, and Roy, a widowed sheriff still reeling from the death of his wife and child. As they navigate their individual pain and a tentative connection with each other, they must learn to trust again and open themselves up to the possibility of love.

• March Madness (Novella): This suspenseful novella plunges readers into a thrilling investigation with a unique twist. Detective Laurel goes undercover to catch a serial killer who is targeting young women during the college basketball finals, leaving behind unusual calling cards: mascot dolls from the losing teams. The story blends crime, suspense, and a touch of sensuality as Laurel races against time to stop the killer.

• Catch of the Season (Novella): This science fiction/fantasy novella offers a unique and chilling perspective on the relationship between predator and prey. When aliens, resembling lobsters, respond to distress signals from Earth's oceans, they decide to hunt a human – Captain Matt Green, a successful lobster hunter. Catch of the Season turns the tables on familiar tropes, forcing readers to question their assumptions about humanity's place in the food chain.

• Second Glances Second Chances (Novella): This novella explores themes of destiny, choice, and the possibility of altering one's path. When Erica, a bartender in the Florida Keys, wakes up next to a naked stranger with no memory of how she got there, she must fight to reclaim her life and make decisions that will determine her future.

• Out For Justice (Novel): This romantic suspense novel follows rookie detective Karen Sykes as she investigates the brutal murder of a young boy, a case that hits close to home due to her own past trauma. As she works alongside crime scene technician Mike Connelly, sparks fly, but the investigation takes a dangerous turn when her partner becomes a victim. Out For Justice blends mystery, romance, and a cat-and-mouse game with a killer.

• Good Intentions (Novel): This novel tells the "tragic story" of Tracy Reynolds, a woman who opens her home to a pregnant teenager, Megan, with the best of intentions. However, both Tracy and Megan are unprepared for the challenges and emotional turmoil that lie ahead, exploring the complexities of family, responsibility, and the potential consequences of even the most well-meaning actions.

Beyond Novels: Self-Help and Anthologies

Vicki M. Taylor's writing extends beyond fiction. She has also authored a self-help book and contributed to several anthologies, demonstrating her versatility and her commitment to using her words to help and connect with others.

• Words Heal: A Self-Guided Creative Writing, Expressive Therapy, & Journaling Process: This book offers a practical and compassionate approach to using writing as a tool for healing and self-discovery. Drawing on her own experiences and understanding of therapeutic techniques, Vicki provides readers with self-guided imagery, expressive writing exercises, and journaling prompts to help them navigate personal challenges, process difficult emotions, and cultivate a more positive outlook.
• Anthology Contributions: Vicki's work has also been featured in several anthologies, including Beyond the Mundane: Flights of Mind, Wizards of Words (WOW), and Out of the Box. These contributions showcase her ability to connect with other writers and contribute to diverse collections of work.

What Readers Are Saying About Vicki M. Taylor's Work:

Vicki M. Taylor's books have resonated with readers who appreciate her willingness to tackle difficult subjects, her strong female characters, and her ability to create emotionally engaging narratives. Here's a sampling of what readers are saying:

• "This book is a stunning exploration of vulnerability and resilience...The author’s ability to portray her emotional highs and lows is remarkable, creating a story that’s both painful and hopeful...A poignant and inspiring tale!" - Karen on Forever Until We Meet, 5 Stars, Goodreads
• "This is a beautifully written book with nothing to dislike. It deserves a rating of 5 out of 5 stars...I recommend it to readers who enjoy emotionally gripping books." - Reader C G on Not Without Anna, 5 Stars, Goodreads
• "March Madness by Vicki M. Taylor takes readers on a journey of suspense, thrill, and attraction...The author skillfully intertwines sensuality with crime and action...I enjoyed reading this book. With nothing to dislike, I rate it 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend it to readers of crime fiction." - Anthionette Gwen on March Madness, 5 Stars, Goodreads
• "This is a short book, but it gave me chills. Taylor did a really great job...This is a thought-provoking and unsettling book." - Anthionette Gwen on Catch of the Season, 5 Stars, Goodreads
• "I recommend this book to anyone above 18 years who enjoys a good read. With its themes of self-discovery, this book is a compelling read that will leave the readers reflecting on their own lives." - Obinna Sharon on Second Glances Second Chances, 5 Stars, Goodreads
• "The book was very well written with characters that were described as strong real women in real situations. Some sensitive issues were brought forth. I thought the way she gives the reader some of the harsh realities of life makes the book more interesting...This book is extremely good." - Gayle Pace on Out For Justice, 4 Stars, Goodreads

A Call to Connection

I encourage you to explore the diverse and emotionally resonant work of Vicki M. Taylor. You can connect with her and learn more about her books on her website, and through her social media pages: Facebook, Instagram, X, Pinterest, LinkedIn and YouTube.

You can purchase her books, as well as the anthologies she's published in, through the Amazon affiliate links below:  

• Forever Until We Meet
• Not Without Anna
• Trust in the Wind
• March Madness
• Catch of the Season
• Second Glances Second Chances
• Out For Justice
• Good Intentions
• Words Heal: A Self-Guided Creative Writing, Expressive Therapy, & Journaling Process
• Beyond the Mundane: Flights of Mind (Paperback only)
• Wizards of Words (Paperback only)
• Out of the Box

All of the above books are also free to read with a Kindle Unlimited subscription! 

Conclusion

Vicki M. Taylor is a writer who bravely confronts the complexities of human experience, crafting stories that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Her willingness to explore difficult themes, combined with her talent for creating strong, memorable characters, makes her a powerful voice in contemporary fiction. Whether you're looking for a suspenseful mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a thought-provoking exploration of loss and healing, Vicki M. Taylor's diverse body of work offers something for everyone. I highly recommend exploring her books and following her continuing journey as an author.

Thanks for reading!

Angela G. Williams

*This post contains affiliate links. For more information about my affiliate relationships, please see my Affiliate Disclosure.