Silicon Valley isn’t just a place – it’s a living, breathing ecosystem of ambition, innovation, and secrets.

Susan Moore – 16 January 2025

The Back Flap

When her tycoon husband suddenly dies, a woman discovers the sinister secrets of Silicon Valley, in this psychological thriller debut.

When tech mogul Brad Jones is found drowned off the Marin coast, his death is quickly ruled a suicide. But his wife, Dr. Anna Jones, a renowned cyberpsychologist, isn’t convinced. Driven by grief and suspicion, Anna begins to dig into Brad’s past, uncovering some dark details behind Silicon Valley’s elite.

Anna soon crosses paths with Scott and Kristy Lyle, influential figures with connections reaching the highest echelons of the tech industry. The deeper she goes, the more she realizes Brad’s death is tied to a long-buried secret—one that powerful people would kill to protect. Caught between the truth and some dangerous enemies, will Anna risk everything to expose the sinister forces at play?

The Widow’s Web is a gripping psychological thriller that explores ambition, betrayal, and the terrifying reality that our worst enemies may be those we trust the most..

About the book

What is the book about?

The Widow’s Web is the story of Dr. Anna Jones, a cyber-psychologist who investigates her tech mogul husband’s suspicious death in Northern California. As she uncovers dark secrets among Silicon Valley’s elite, she becomes entangled in a dangerous web of lies, power, and betrayal.

When did you start writing the book?

Over three years ago.

How long did it take you to write it?

The first draft took about eight months. After that, I alternated between letting the manuscript rest and revisiting it with fresh eyes for new rounds of editing.

Where did you get the idea from?

The tech world has been my constant companion for over three decades, seeping into every corner of my existence. From Sprint Technology Laboratories, to Lucasfilm IT at Skywalker Ranch, to a wild ride on the frenzied wave of the dot-com boom at a South Park startup. Add over twenty years of marriage to a serial tech entrepreneur, and you’ve got a front-row seat to one of the fastest moving industries in the world. Silicon Valley isn’t just a place – it’s a living, breathing ecosystem of ambition, innovation, and secrets.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

Absolutely. Some days, I felt like I was solving a puzzle blindfolded, trying to ensure each narrative thread connected without unraveling the entire story.

What came easily?

I love writing dialogue. It’s where I find the most joy in the writing process, especially when characters start to speak for themselves and reveal unexpected facets. There’s a certain magic in that.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

While I draw inspiration from the world around me, as many writers do, my characters are not carbon copies of real people. They are unique figures crafted from a mix of experiences, observations, and imagination, not reflections of anyone from my personal life.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

Margaret Atwood’s narratives, which delve into the complexities of human nature and the darker aspects of society, inspired me to craft a story that not only entertains but also provokes thought and introspection.

And Terry Hayes’ I Am Pilgrim captivated me with its intricate plotting and relentless pacing, keeping me on the edge of my seat. The novel’s seamless blend of espionage, suspense, and richly drawn characters was a masterclass in thriller writing.

Do you have a target reader?

I’d say my target reader is anyone who enjoys fast-paced thrillers with intricate plots, richly woven with thought-provoking elements that keep them on the edge of their seat!

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

I do have a writing process that has emerged from the early days of trial and error. I always keep a notebook handy to jot down ideas whenever they strike. My primary goal is to complete a first draft without getting bogged down by too many edits. This initial draft is often lengthy and may leave some plot threads open. Once the first draft is done, I focus on refining and tightening the narrative, and allowing enough time between edits to regain my own perspective of the story.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I do outline, but my approach is flexible. I start with the idea of where the story is headed and create a brief outline to guide me. However, I’m an instinctive writer and prefer to let the story unfold organically as I write. This allows me to discover new directions and surprises along the way, making the writing process more enjoyable and dynamic.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

Great question! For the first draft, I try to avoid editing as I go, focusing instead on getting the story down. However, there are times when I can’t resist going back to tweak certain areas, but overall, I aim to keep the momentum going and save the bulk of the editing for later drafts.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

I’m one of those writers who has to write in silence because I’m so much in my own inner world when I’m writing. However, I do enjoy listening to music before and after writing sessions to help me get into and out of the zone. Movie soundtracks are my go-to, especially anything composed by Hans Zimmer. Oh, and of particular note at the moment is Night Over Manaus by Boozoo Bajou.

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

I did have a long-term agent until earlier this year, but we parted ways, and I decided to pursue publishing on my own terms. This shift has allowed me to explore new avenues and take more control over my creative journey.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

As previous answer.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

My publisher Bloodhound Books has created the cover.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

Bloodhound Books does have a marketing plan and alongside this I’m working with the brilliant PR gurus at BookSparks.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Hone your craft—it’s the old adage that you need to know the rules before you can break them. Be persistent, stay open to editorial feedback, and above all, read, read, read! The more you immerse yourself in the written word, the better equipped you’ll be to refine your own writing.

End of Interview:

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Get your copy of The Widow’s Web from Amazon US or Amazon UK.