DEVIL IN THE DUNES BOOK CLUBS!

Wendy Byard was a college English professor and high school English and history teacher for over 25 years. She taught her students research, essay, and creative writing as well as critical thinking skills. She  empowered them to win writing awards at Mott College, in the state of Michigan, and elsewhere.   

She recently published Devil in the Dunes, an engrossing kidnap suspense novel set on the charming - and often deadly - coast of Lake Michigan.  It is available via Amazon, Barnes and Noble, IngramSpark, and other US and worldwide distributors.

She currently writes the column "Beyond Our Backyards for The County Press in Michigan.

Byard is the published author of Teach and Reach for Classroom Miracles.  She was magazine writer for On the Town magazine; a Special Writer for The Flint Journal; a journalist for Capitol News Service; a published essay writer; and a previous advertising and marketing account executive for Group 243 in Ann Arbor and Grey Advertising in Chicago. 

She is the owner of the graphic and website design firm Wordgirl Marketing.  

Byard earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and history and a master’s degree in English Education from Michigan State University.  She was a writer for The State News at MSU.

She resides in Metamora, Michigan. 

 SIX YEARS AGO, CADIE MCLEOD'S PARENTS WERE BRUTUALLY MURDERED.

 NOW SHE'S MISSING.

After Cadie McLeod is snatched from the Lake Michigan dunes on the day her parents were killed six years ago, the 18-year-old must escape her abductor if she's going to live and solve the mystery of their grisly deaths - murders for reasons no one could imagine.

Ten years ago, little Emily Hadly disappeared from the dark dunes while her parents napped nearby. Emily was never seen again. Now another young woman – the popular, wildly beautiful, and exceptional 18-year-old Cadie McLeod is missing from those same dunes. At first glance, Devil in the Dunes might appear to be a simple whodunnit; however, the tale’s reality is much more complex, unexpected, and horrifying. 

On a Lake Michigan beach, under a midnight moon, a man stalks a young woman enjoying an end-of-year bonfire with classmates. Minutes later, as Cadie leaves the party and walks tipsily down Scenic Trail toward her bike and Aunt Marie’s cozy cottage, a man emerges from the shadows, chokes her unconscious, and pumps her arm full of Ketamine. As a storm blows in across the Great Lake, the man drives Cadie to a remote location where he imprisons the unconscious woman in an old root cellar built into a hillside. His years-in-the-making revenge plan has begun.

The night selected for Cadie’s abduction is not random. Six years ago, on the very night that Cadie disappears, her parents Thomas and Aileen were run down in grisly fashion (the local news said "obliterated") as they walked hand in hand across coastal highway M-22 for ice cream. Their killer was never captured. 

The mysterious, psychological kidnap thriller Devil in the Dunes is an addictive, plot-driven novel with characters to care about. Readers will be fully immersed in this dark tale, quickly turning page after page to discover who murdered Thomas and Aileen and why and what happens to their only daughter - a strong-willed woman who fights for her freedom. The finale is utterly unpredictable and takes place in a cruiser off North Manitou Island in the midst of a ferocious Lake Michigan storm. The novel has been called “epic” and “gripping.” Several reviewers said they, “could not put it down.” 

Wendy Byard grew up loving Nancy Drew books - even sneaking out of her middle school classes to hide out in the library and read every book in the series. The teen sleuth was clever and courageous, bold and beautiful - Wendy's first example of a literary feminist.  Of course, she went on to read many more mysteries throughout her life from Stephen King to John Grisham to current mystery authors like Lisa Jewell. (She and her husband also love Dateline and Forensic Files!)

Wendy loves a good whodunnit. She appreciates the suspense genre as it provides excitement but also engages the reader as they analyze clues, evidence, characters, plot, and motivation. Mystery novels are more than just good distraction: they compel critical thinking and also analysis of themes like love, sacrifice, hope, bravery, redemption, and good versus evil.  Wendy is still contemplating: why this book? Yet, as she digs deeper, she begins to discern deeper messages in her own novel, like the the power of hope, love, and goodness.

The target audience for this suspense book is broad and encompasses many kinds of readers, but generally includes those who enjoy mystery, thriller, and crime fiction. People who will like this novel often seek a thrill of the chase, the excitement of unknown outcomes, and the satisfaction of unraveling complex plots. They will enjoy the suspenseful Devil of the Dunes regardless of age or gender.

Further, people are naturally inclined to seek answers, and suspense keeps them guessing.  There often is an adrenaline rush. The tension built by suspense can trigger the body's fight-or-flight response, leading to feelings of excitement, and this physiological reaction is pleasurable to many people. Readers of Devil of the Dunes will definitely experience these feelings!

Devil in the Dunes is comprised of 52 chapters and an epilogue. It is  85,690 words long.

The novel can be obtained via Amazon, Barnes and Noble, IngramSpark, and other worldwide distributors as well as several Michigan bookstores. Go to the Purchase tab for complete purchasing information. Thank you. 

Reviews are available at this website and also at Amazon. Click on button below to go Amazon reviews. 

https://elizabethmccravy.com/start-a-book-club/

https://www.oprahdaily.com/entertainment/books/a64491824/how-to-create-successful-book-club/

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• Cadie's Abduction: Cadie is abducted from the Lake Michigan dunes during a high school bonfire.
• Parents' Murder Anniversary: The abduction occurs on the anniversary of her parents' brutal death, when they were run down by a car on coastal highway M-22.
• The Killer's Revenge: A sinister character, referred to as "The Weirdo," is revealed to be carrying out revenge for mysterious reasons.
• Cadie's Fight for Survival: Cadie must use her intelligence and cunning to escape her abductor and solve the mystery of her parents' murder.
• Michigan Setting: The story is set against the backdrop of the natural beauty and sometimes dangerous power of the Michigan landscape, including Lake Michigan dunes, coastal highway M-22, and other landmarks like the Cherry Bowl Drive-in Theatre and Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes.
• Themes of Revenge and Betrayal: The novel explores themes of betrayal,  redemption, and the devastating consequences of hate and revenge.
• Strong Female Protagonist: Cadie is described as a strong, intelligent, and multi-faceted young woman, a modern take on characters like Nancy Drew. 

In essence, Devil in the Dunes is a suspenseful tale of kidnapping, survival, and unraveling a dark mystery with deep roots in the past, all set within a vividly depicted Michigan setting. 

 Devil in the Dunes features several prominent landmarks and locations, primarily situated in Northwestern Michigan. These include:

• Lake Michigan dunes: The sandy dunes along the lake play a significant role in the story, particularly as the setting for Cadie's abduction.
• Coastal Highway M-22: This highway is the location of the tragic hit-and-run that killed Cadie's parents.
• Cherry Bowl Drive-in Theatre: This classic drive-in theater is a specific landmark mentioned in the book.
• Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes: This well-known national lakeshore is included in the story's setting.
• Empire Bluffs: These imposing bluffs are another geographical feature showcased in the novel.
• North Manitou Island: A dramatic scene in the book unfolds off the coast of this island during a storm.
• Traverse City: A well-known town on the bay, it serves as part of the book's West Michigan setting.
• Leland (Fishtown): This historic area, known as Fishtown, is also included in the story.
• Mackinac Island: This charming island is another featured location.
• Harbor Cove: This fictional location near Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes serves as a setting in the narrative.

• Good vs. Evil: The story involves a battle between good and evil, particularly in the context of the disappearance of Cadie McLeod and the events surrounding her abduction.
• Love and Redemption: Themes of love, hope, and the possibility of redemption are explored.
• Consequences of Hate and Revenge: The novel examines how choices driven by hate and vengeance can have significant repercussions.
• Betrayal: The story delves into the theme of betrayal.
• Survival: Cadie McLeod's abduction makes the story a gripping battle for survival.
• Female Empowerment and Heroism: The author created Cadie McLeod as a strong, intelligent, and inspiring female protagonist, exploring themes of female empowerment and heroism

 In the novel Devil in the Dunes by Wendy Byard, the main characters and their roles are as follows: 

• Cadie McLeod: A popular, athletic, and intelligent senior in high school who is abducted from the Lake Michigan dunes on the anniversary of her parents' murder. She is forced to use her wit and cunning to escape and solve the mystery of her parents' deaths. She is presented as a strong female protagonist, a "somewhat modern take on Nancy Drew," who is calm and courageous.
• Thomas and Aileen: Cadie's parents, who were brutally murdered six years prior to her abduction, run down by a car on a deserted coastal highway.
• The Weirdo: The abductor and killer, described as having a "sick obsession" that drives their actions. Their motivations are rooted in hate-fueled reasons.
• A Father-Son Duo: Characters who play a role in trying to find Cadie after her disappearance. 
• Detective Jake Brennan: A heroic detective involved in the investigation who is haunted for years because he unknowingly let a little girl die in a bus fire.
• Nick Brennan: Detective Brennan's son, who is in love with Cadie, and broken by his mother's abandonment and the deaths of his neighbors, Thomas and Aileen McLeod.
• Sergeant Dana Bakker: Another character involved in the investigation who shows determination and regret because she couldn't bring the McLeod's killer to justice. Her trauma leads to divorce and health issues.

 Atmospheric Setting:

• The novel is set in a sleepy northern Michigan beach town, where the serene beauty of the location contrasts with the looming danger.
• The descriptions of the Lake Michigan dunes and the setting, such as the "shifting sands and impenetrable pitch-black waters,"  help to immerse the reader in the story.
• The author uses descriptions like the red supermoon casting rays through clouds to create a hazy spotlight on the beach, adding a sense of suspense and observation. 

2. Suspense and Mystery:

• The novel is a whodunnit and psychological thriller, focusing on the disappearance of a young woman named Cadie.
• The author creates suspense by connecting Cadie's abduction to the unsolved murder of her parents years prior, creating a sense of escalating danger.
• The story is described as a "gripping battle for survival" against a sociopath,  implying the use of techniques to build tension and fear. 

3. Character Development:

• The protagonist, Cadie, is described as a strong and clever young woman, suggesting a focus on character growth and resilience.
• The author draws inspiration from Nancy Drew, indicating a focus on a strong female lead who uses her intelligence to overcome challenges. 

4. Pacing and Plot:

• The novel is described as an "addictive page-turner" that keeps readers guessing until the end.
• This suggests a fast-paced plot with well-timed reveals and cliffhangers. 

5. Figurative Language (Based on analysis of similar works and common practices in the genre):

• Imagery: Likely employed to create vivid descriptions of the setting, characters, and events, such as the descriptions of the dunes and the supermoon.
• Symbolism: The story's elements, like the contrasting peaceful setting and the lurking evil, might be used to symbolize the inherent tension between good and bad. 

6. Themes:

• Betrayal, redemption, and hope.
• The power of love versus the consequences of hate and revenge. 

In summary, Devil in the Dunes likely utilizes a combination of evocative setting descriptions, suspenseful pacing, a strong protagonist, and thematic exploration to create an engaging and thrilling reading experience.  

 Wendy Byard wrote "Devil in the Dunes" after being inspired by a family trip and her love for mysteries. Key elements of her writing process and influences:

• Inspiration: The initial idea came to her during a nighttime drive to St. Louis.
• Michigan Setting: She was drawn to the idea of a mysterious tale set against the beautiful but sometimes dangerous backdrop of Michigan's Lake Michigan coast. This included the wild nature and stormy weather of the lake, as well as specific Michigan locations.
• Passion for Mysteries: Byard has always enjoyed mysteries and the suspense genre. She is a fan of detective stories and psychological thrillers.
• Developing the Plot: She "mused on" the fictitious crime story and its plot for a significant period of time.
• Strong Female Protagonist: She aimed to create a strong, multi-faceted female character with a voice, drawing inspiration from Nancy Drew books she enjoyed as a child.
• Teaching Background: Byard spent many years teaching creative writing, which informed her approach.
• Exploration of Themes: She delves into themes like betrayal, redemption, hope, love, and the power of goodness.
• Plot-Driven Style: "Devil in the Dunes" is described as a dark, mysterious, and suspenseful kidnap thriller that is plot-driven and keeps readers engaged. 

 Wendy Byard's inspiration from the iconic Nancy Drew books plays a significant role in the creation of her protagonist, Cadie McLeod, in "Devil in the Dunes". Here's how Nancy Drew influenced Byard's writing:

• Role Model: Byard grew up admiring Nancy Drew, who was portrayed as a clever, calm, and courageous teen sleuth.
• Strong Female Protagonist: Byard wanted to create a novel that featured a strong, empowered female protagonist, similar to Nancy Drew.
• Modern Take on Nancy Drew: Cadie McLeod, the protagonist of "Devil in the Dunes," is described as a modern adaptation of Nancy Drew.
• Empowered and Intelligent: Cadie is depicted as an empowered, smart young woman, even earning a full scholarship to study forensic science at Michigan State.
• Source of Inspiration: Byard's goal was to create a character like Cadie who could serve as an inspiration to other women. 
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Essentially, Nancy Drew's strong, independent, and capable nature provided a blueprint for Byard as she developed the character of Cadie McLeod, aiming to create a similarly impactful and inspiring female lead for her own mystery novel. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more 

  1. Inspiration and Long-Term Development:

• Wendy Byard's interest in writing Devil in the Dunes developed over several years as she contemplated a mystery novel set in Michigan.
• She drew inspiration from her love for Michigan's landscapes, Lake Michigan, and a desire to create a strong, female protagonist, influenced by her admiration for the Nancy Drew character. 

2. Focus on Story Elements:

• Byard aimed to create a story that delved deeper than a simple crime narrative, exploring themes like betrayal, redemption, hope, and the contrast between love and hate.
• Her goal was to craft a captivating "whodunit and psychological thriller" that balances suspense, emotion, and an underlying sense of evil.
• She emphasizes the importance of character development, giving insight into their motivations and personalities. 

3. Creative Writing Teacher and Author:

• Byard has a background as an educator, teaching creative writing to students.
• Her experience in teaching creative writing likely influenced her approach to developing narratives. 

4. Potential for "Organic" Approach:  

• While not explicitly confirmed, the reference to "organic storytelling" suggests a possible approach to writing where the story unfolds naturally, without a strict outline, as details and characters evolve.
• This method focuses on letting the narrative flow from the interactions between characters and the story world, with conflict arising naturally from those elements. 

In summary: Wendy Byard's writing of Devil in the Dunes was inspired by her desire to create a compelling mystery set in Michigan, driven by strong characters and a deep exploration of themes. While the exact extent to which she used the "pantsing" or "organic" method is not detailed, her background in teaching creative writing and the description of the novel's development suggest a process that likely involved a degree of creative freedom and exploration 

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