Since adolescence, I knew I wanted to write. Writing as J. Hawki, I am a native of Baltimore, Maryland. After reading the urban drama, Durango Street, by Frank Bonham, borrowed from my neighborhood bookmobile library, and later, Sidney Sheldon’s, The Other Side of Midnight, I discovered my love for thrillers. In 2012, I released my first psychological thriller, Elephants and Chopping Blocks Retain Their Natural Color. Its third edition was re-released in February. In April 2018, its sequel, Catch an Elephant by the Tail was released.

“My pulse-pounding, quick change, thrill-a-minute way of pacing is similar to the style of male thriller writers like James Patterson and John Grisham. Being one of a small group of women writing in this genre, I hope to inspire more women to write true psychological thrillers, and not literary fiction pretending to be.”

Elephants and Chopping Blocks Retain Their Natural Color - Synopsis

Psychiatrist Kirsten Leone is a leading figure in her field, respected by colleagues and clients alike, but her personal life is in shambles, as she finds herself caught up in a tumultuous secret relationship she cannot share with her family. When a series of gruesome murders stumps law enforcement agencies nationwide, Kirsten consults on an intense FBI investigation in hopes of luring out the methodical and manipulative killer. However, as her involvement in the case deepens, the killer begins targeting not only Kirsten but also her loved ones.

Catch an Elephant By the Tail

In this sequel to Elephants and Chopping Blocks Retain Their Natural Color, renowned psychiatrist and investigator Kirsten Leone has retreated from the hunt for an elusive group of killers. She now anxiously waits for developments in the case, as suspected ringleader Malcolm Johns remains at large. However, when her lover is abducted while pursuing a lead in the investigation, Kirsten is plunged back into her search.