AC-I-272 Behind the Scenes of Muddy the Water: A Sibling Duo's Crime Thriller Journey

In this captivating episode of Audiobook Connection, host Becky Parker Geist sits down with sibling authors Jessica Beebe and Matt Barrows to explore the behind-the-scenes story of their gripping crime thriller, Muddy the Water. What began as a decades-old idea from Matt—sparked by a spooky drive to a small South Carolina newspaper—evolved into a suspense-filled novel brought to life by both siblings during the pandemic. Listeners will hear how a real-life job in journalism inspired a fictional identity theft, how a shrimp-boat-captain-coroner shaped crucial plot details, and how Jess and Matt navigated everything from sibling squabbles to bird species accuracy. With alternating perspectives of a cunning fugitive, determined detective, and ambitious young reporter, Muddy the Water is not only a tightly plotted thriller but a deep dive into the theme of identity—and whether anyone ever truly reveals their real self. Plus, discover the creative process behind the audiobook, narrated from three unique points of view, and their dream of adapting the story into a television series. It's a lively, funny, and inspiring look at family collaboration, creative persistence, and the unexpected paths stories take to find their voice. 🎙️ Listen here to Muddy the Water on AMPlify Audiobooks.