The journey from one genre to another can be a bold and exhilarating leap in literature. For Charles Rogers, an alumnus of The University of Southern Mississippi, this transition became a thrilling adventure after a fulfilling career in public relations.
Meet Charles Rogers, a seasoned PR professional-turned crime fiction writer. The transition from crafting press releases and managing corporate communications to weaving intricate tales of mystery and suspense is extraordinary.
“I’ve always enjoyed crime fiction novels and TV shows, and I’ve always enjoyed writing,” Rogers said.
His two passions naturally converged, setting the stage for a new creative endeavor.
Rogers’ writing journey began with a short story, gradually becoming interconnected narratives. These tales come together in their debut novel, “The Chambers Files,” which has garnered positive reviews on various platforms. One might wonder what sets this crime and mystery novel apart from the rest of the genre’s offerings. According to him, the answer lies in its accessibility. The book features short, engaging chapters with straightforward language, making it an easy and enjoyable read for many audiences. This novel strikes a unique balance between thrilling crime scenes and language suitable for adults and younger readers. It’s a blend that ensures that the book can be appreciated by readers of all ages.
Rogers’ connection to Hattiesburg was important in the story’s setting. While “The Chambers Files” is a work of fiction, he needed to include locations with which they were familiar. Each setting within the book, from the streets of The Hub City to the landscapes of Wyoming, was carefully chosen to give readers a glimpse into places close to his heart.
Rogers emphasizes that it is intended for entertainment when asked if the book carries specific themes or messages.
“I enjoy crime mystery and creating suspense, then resolving it,” he explained.
Rogers also acknowledges the subtle revelation within the story – the connection between crimes spanning different regions. The novel explores how local crimes often have broader implications involving various areas nationwide. The narrative revolves around Detective Bobby Chambers, whose investigations reveal surprising connections between criminal activities in Northern Virginia, South Mississippi, and Wyoming. As readers embark on this literary adventure, they are immersed in a gripping tale of crime and mystery and taken on a journey through landscapes and regions that have impacted his life. The book has successfully exposed readers to places that may be unfamiliar, from Hattiesburg to Wyoming, enriching their understanding of these locales.
And the literary journey continues. Rogers is working on a second book, still in the crime and mystery genre, but not featuring Detective Chambers. However, readers can anticipate appearances from some beloved characters from the debut novel. While there isn’t a set release date for the new book, he is excited about the upcoming narrative set in College Station, Texas.
The transition from public relations to crime fiction has been fulfilling for him. Writing, which has always been a passion, has become a source of boundless enjoyment. The leap from crafting PR materials to creating suspenseful narratives has added a new layer of creativity to their life, which they eagerly embrace.