If you’re on the hunt for a gripping new read that combines charm, wit, and high-stakes action, look no further than Dead Man’s Hand: Forger’s Book 1 by Steven Meehan. This novel introduces us to Marcus, a character who is as smooth as he is cunning, navigating the world of poker with an ease that is both enviable and entertaining.
Marcus: The Smooth-Talking Poker Prodigy
Marcus isn’t your average card player. He’s a lover of life who seems to excel at just about everything he tries, but poker—especially Texas Hold ’em—is where he truly shines. Armed with sharp wits and keen observational skills, he has an uncanny ability to read his opponents and mentally dissect their strategies. It’s not just about the cards for Marcus; it’s about the thrill of the game and the challenge of outsmarting everyone at the table.
However, Marcus isn’t without his flaws. His naivety often interferes with his meticulously crafted plans. He might be able to read a bluff from a mile away, but when it comes to understanding the depths of criminal masterminds, he has a thing or two to learn. This mix of brilliance and vulnerability makes him a relatable and intriguing protagonist that readers can’t help but root for.
High Stakes and Higher Risks
The story kicks into high gear when Marcus learns about an exclusive, high-stakes poker tournament in New Orleans. Never one to back down from a challenge, he eagerly sets off to join the game. But this isn’t just any tournament—it’s run by one of the most powerful criminal masterminds east of the Mississippi, Bertrand Dempsey.
As Marcus delves deeper into this dangerous world, he realizes that his usual tricks might not be enough to see him through. The stakes are higher than ever, and it’s not just money on the line—it’s his life. With every hand dealt, Marcus must stay a step ahead, using not only his poker prowess but also the unique skills that set him apart from others. It’s a game where only the sharpest can emerge victorious, and luck has very little to do with it.
The tension escalates as Marcus finds himself entangled in a web of deception and peril. His observational skills are put to the ultimate test as he navigates a world where one wrong move could be his last. The blend of action, suspense, and strategic thinking keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to see how Marcus will outwit his formidable opponent.
Meet the Author: Steven Meehan
Steven Meehan brings a fresh voice to the thriller genre with Dead Man’s Hand. By day, Steven is a software developer, but by night, he’s a passionate storyteller who has always loved crafting narratives. Interestingly, Steven’s background is in mathematics—a choice he made in college to avoid writing lengthy papers! Despite this, his flair for creative writing shines through in his engaging prose and complex characters.
The concept for Dead Man’s Hand began with the creation of a unique magic system, which then evolved into the rich, character-driven story we see today. Steven’s approach to world-building is meticulous, and he skillfully weaves elements of magic into a narrative grounded in reality. This fusion creates an alternate world where characters like Marcus can manipulate their surroundings in extraordinary ways.
Why You Should Dive Into “Dead Man’s Hand”
This book isn’t just for fans of poker or thrillers; it’s for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted story with dynamic characters and unexpected twists. Marcus’s journey is as much about personal growth as it is about outmaneuvering dangerous foes. His interactions, both at the poker table and beyond, reveal layers of his personality that make him both compelling and endearing.
Steven Meehan’s storytelling is immersive, pulling readers into a world where every detail matters. The suspense is palpable, and the stakes feel real, making it easy to lose yourself in the narrative. Whether you’re looking for an exciting new series to get hooked on or simply a captivating read for the weekend, Dead Man’s Hand: Forger’s Book 1 is a fantastic choice.
So, are you ready to join Marcus at the poker table? Grab your copy and prepare for a thrilling adventure that will keep you guessing until the very end.
We had the privilege of interviewing the author. Here are excerpts from the interview:
Hi, Please introduce yourself and tell us about what you do.
My name is Steven Meehan, and by day, I’m a Software Developer, but by night, I am an avid storyteller. That said, technical writing isn’t my favorite thing to do, which is why I ran away from writing papers in college. In fact, I selected my degree in Mathematics. I didn’t have to write those pesky papers. However, I’ve always loved creating stories. Even back in high school, I crafted and have since lost several rudimentary stories that were poor attempts compared to what I’ve been able to accomplish over the past decade.
Please tell us about your book.
The early days of Dead Man’s Hand started with the world’s magic system. From there, I built out the main character and started penning the original storyline. While the tale has a slow burn to the use of magic, deep down, this is a character-driven tale that creates an alternate world where people can impose their will on the world.
Please tell us about your journey.
Back in 2015, I was wading through the custody of my daughter, and despite the allegations of abuse being bandied about, I poured all my spare moments into creating this book. That outlet served as a life raft during that tumultuous point in my life and helped me stay sane. Unfortunately, after publishing the book, I lost the manuscript. Thankfully a couple of years ago, with the help of KDP, I scraped the contents from the Kindle copy and I knew it needed work. With a year of working with Silversmith Press, a wonderful publisher, my book has been elevated to new heights with this edition.
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
On several occasions, I’ve had friends and family tell me I’m stubborn. In fact, the one example they throw at me is my refusal to go to a doctor. It’s gotten to where if I tell my friends that I’m seeking medical help, they know it’s serious because I should have gone a month prior. Stubbornness is just perseverance that is misunderstood, and that’s what has enabled me to finish both the original edition and this new edition. Without that inner desire coursing through me, compelling me to carry my burdens until the job is done, no matter what, I wouldn’t have these accomplishments under my belt.
Any message for our readers
If you enjoy a story where the main character has to dig deep to find out who he really is, buy my book and enjoy Marcus’s journey. However, if you’re not ready to dive into Dead Man’s Hand, head over to my website and check out the sub 1000 word stories I publish there. While a lot of them are completed elsewhere, you can get a feel for my writing before buying my novel. Also, my dad’s favorite story of mine was Journey of Thanks, available in full on my website.
Thank you so much, Steven Meehan, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!
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