WAYNESBORO–Waynesboro author Kirsten Hubbard describes her new book as a fast-paced thriller that deeply moves its readers.
She said “Milwaukee Deep” offers interesting perspectives on trauma and colonialism as it explores the true events and mysticism of a small Caribbean island, Vieques, which was commandeered by the U.S. military as a weapons dump and proving ground for over 60 years.
Writing under the pseudonym Kirstie Croga, Hubbard draws upon a career of storytelling and a deep, holistic understanding of community issues to create a rich, authentic, loving tribute to survivors of trauma.
The book’s Ambrose Nobel, an amateur fighter and freelance writer, is a vocal advocate for those with traumatic pasts. “Ambrose’s own experiences have left her deeply suspicious, reclusive, and often unable to communicate under stress,” Hubbard said. “We meet her in the delicate space between shedding destructive relationships and cautiously forming healthier ones.”
Immersed in the island as she researches a family history she is ghostwriting, Ambrose’s personal struggles are overlaid on the island’s storied history and the legacy of the natives who survived the decades-long assault, she explained.
Now working on the sequel, “One White Mule,” Hubbard plans to travel to Poland to do some research and expects the new book may be available at the end of 2024.
“It features the same character and people connected with the main character. In thrillers, especially military thrillers, you typically have a strong male lead. These books have a strong, female lead,” she said.
In addition to being a writer, athlete and entrepreneur, Hubbard said she feels her life epitomizes the power of the pen to change the world. “My work with nonprofits and NGOs across the globe gives me a unique perspective on social issues and the ability to spin the honest and complex tale of the human condition into action-packed, humorous, and intriguing storytelling,” she said.
Hubbard is the founder of Ghost Writer LLC, an award-winning business that embraces a mission of writing a better human story. She also founded Mission Solved Inc, a nonprofit supporting emerging adults with childhood trauma, broadband equality, literacy, and “everyone an athlete” programming.
The novel will be released nationally on May 5 and is available for pre-order from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BooksAMillion, and Mascot Books. Limited autographed advance copies of Milwaukee Deep are available at kirstiecroga.com and locally at WBO Health and Fitness and Elite Martial Arts.
