Step into the sultry, suspense-filled world of the North Florida Trilogy, where the humid Gulf Coast of the 1980s hides secrets as deep as its swamps! Co-authored by P.V. LeForge and Anne Petty, this literary mystery series weaves local myths, resilient female protagonists, and a haunting sense of place into a captivating journey. From forgotten legends to personal reckonings, the trilogy—comprising Hell and High Water, Museum Piece, and Time Piece—invites readers to uncover the mysteries of Florida’s lesser-known shores.
Perfect for fans of Southern Gothic and character-driven suspense, this hidden gem offers a fresh take on the Sunshine State, far from its touristy beaches. Ready to dive into a world of intrigue and history? Let’s explore the North Florida Trilogy’s origins, stories, and lasting allure.
How the North Florida Trilogy Began
P.V. LeForge, a Florida native with a Master’s in Writing from Florida State University, teamed up with Anne Petty, a horror and fantasy author, to craft this evocative series. Drawing from their deep connection to North Florida’s rural landscapes and rich folklore, they set out to create mysteries that blend gritty realism with supernatural whispers. Published through their own Black Bay Books and Kitsune Books, the trilogy reflects their passion for storytelling that honors the region’s unique history and culture.
The 1980s setting—a time of change in Florida’s small towns—inspired the authors to explore how the past shapes the present. LeForge’s life on a Monticello horse farm and Petty’s fascination with mythology and Tolkien infused the series with authenticity and depth, making it a love letter to North Florida’s untamed spirit.
The Heart of the North Florida Trilogy
The trilogy kicks off with Hell and High Water, where shrimpboat captain Carla Conway navigates personal turmoil and a chilling murder in Tate’s Hammock. When her nanny, a revered root doctor, is found dead, Carla uncovers tales of a long-dead volcano, runaway slaves, and shapeshifters, blending mystery with local legend. Museum Piece follows Vicky Rankin, a new private detective in Panama City, as she unravels the eerie secrets of a mysterious museum, where creaking boards and ghostly laughter hint at dark deeds.
Time Piece, the trilogy’s finale, centers on Melanie Truslow, who inherits her estranged father’s haunted house after his drowning. Digging through a basement filled with cryptic clues—chicken bones, cigarette butts, and unsettling videos—she pieces together her family’s past, steeped in Florida’s swampy myths. The series’ themes of identity, belonging, and the weight of history shine through strong female leads, each grappling with their roots in a vividly drawn 1980s North Florida.
The trilogy’s style merges literary suspense with Southern Gothic vibes, using the Gulf Coast’s marshes and small-town quirks as a backdrop. From loafer’s benches to abandoned churches, the setting feels alive, grounding the supernatural elements in a tangible sense of place.
Why the North Florida Trilogy Resonates
Though lesser-known, the North Florida Trilogy has carved a niche among fans of regional mysteries and Southern literature. Its blend of folklore, history, and personal drama appeals to readers seeking stories beyond mainstream thrillers. By spotlighting North Florida’s overlooked landscapes, LeForge and Petty offer a counterpoint to Miami-centric narratives, celebrating the state’s diverse cultural tapestry.
The series’ enduring appeal lies in its authenticity and emotional depth. Readers connect with its flawed, relatable heroines and the way it captures a specific time and place. As a testament to LeForge and Petty’s storytelling, the trilogy remains a hidden treasure for those who discover it, inviting new fans to explore its mysteries.
- Publication Years: 2013–2014
- Number of Books: 3
- Authors: P.V. LeForge and Anne Petty
- Publisher: Black Bay Books and CreateSpace
Ready to unravel the secrets of Tate’s Hammock or Panama City’s shadowy museums? Grab Hell and High Water and dive into the North Florida Trilogy’s mesmerizing world of mystery and myth!