Books | “Kilimanjaro and Beyond” & ”The Secret Truth" | A Conversation with Author Barry Finlay | Audio Signals Podcast With Marco Ciappelli

In this episode of the Audio Signal Podcast, I had the distinct pleasure of diving into the world of storytelling with the remarkable Barry Finlay. Barry is renowned for his ability to captivate audiences through his thrilling mystery novels, and his newest release, "The Secret Truth," promises to be another page-turner.

Meet Barry Finlay: The Accidental Adventurer

Barry's journey into the world of writing is itself a fascinating tale. Born in central Canada and initially rooted in a career defined by numbers as an accountant for the Canadian federal government, he made a surprising transition into becoming a full-time author. His leap from the predictable world of accountancy to the unpredictable world of writing wasn’t just a career change; it was a life change prompted by a major physical challenge—climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at nearly 60 years old. This adventure sparked his first book and led him on a wildly different trajectory than he ever imagined.

Crafting Stories: A Journey from Nonfiction to Mystery

Barry's transformation into a storyteller wasn't immediate. Initially, he penned nonfiction works based on his life experiences, like "Kilimanjaro and Beyond." However, his creativity truly found its calling in the world of mystery and thrillers. Our conversation revealed how Barry's characters, much like his writing process, developed organically, often leading him on unpredictable paths.

The difference Barry outlines between mystery and thrillers is profound—mysteries are character-driven, requiring readers to guess the perpetrator until the very end, while thrillers often present a transparent dichotomy between hero and villain from the onset. For Barry, this distinction is critical and reflects in the intricate layering found in his writing.

"The Secret Truth": A Peek into Barry’s Latest Work

Barry's latest novel, "The Secret Truth," is the third installment in his Jake Scott Mystery Series. Set against a backdrop of intrigue, peril, and personal stakes, Jake Scott finds himself embroiled in an investigation following the dramatic explosion of a bed and breakfast. Barry describes this suspense as a complex puzzle, filled with subtle clues and misdirections—a true testament to his mastery in the mystery genre.

Advice for Aspiring Writers

Barry offers invaluable advice for budding writers drawn to the art of storytelling. He emphasizes the importance of simply starting—writing one's thoughts on paper before editing or seeking feedback. Recognizing the significant role marketing plays post-writing, Barry encourages resilience against negative reviews, reminding aspiring authors to stay true to their vision despite criticism.

Our conversation illuminated not just the mechanics of writing but the soul behind it. Barry Finlay's stories are powerful reminders of how storytelling transcends genres and media, shaping our perceptions of reality—both virtual and tangible.

About the Books

The Secret Truth: A Jake Scott Mystery - Attention all readers! Get ready for a gripping mystery that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Jake Scott, a retired reporter, is on his way to a peaceful bed and breakfast when his life is suddenly put at risk by a reckless driver. But his journey takes an even more dangerous turn when he approaches the bed and breakfast he is staying at and it explodes, killing all occupants. Homicide detective Dani Perez is determined to uncover the truth, and she enlists Jake's help to investigate the backgrounds of the victims. As Jake delves deeper into the case, he uncovers dark secrets that point to a sinister plot at the bed and breakfast. With the clock ticking and danger lurking at every turn, Jake must use all his investigative skills to solve the mystery before it's too late. Fans of suspense and thrilling plot twists will not want to miss this page-turner. For fans of "Gone Girl," this book is a must-read.

Kilimanjaro and Beyond: A Life-Changing Journey - EVERY MOUNTAIN TOP IS WITHIN REACH IF YOU JUST KEEP CLIMBING - Barry Finlay It is January 16, 2009, and 60 year-old BARRY FINLAY and his son CHRIS are propped against a rock, struggling to draw a breath on their treacherous climb up Mount Kilimanjaro. Their destination is tantalizingly close, yet the weather and -- more importantly -- their health will determine the end result. Barry's backpack holds a Canadian flag with the names of over 200 donors mobilized by the climbers back home. The donors have contributed to providing classrooms and clean water for desperately deserving school children in Tanzania. For Barry, this is a life-changing physical, mental and spiritual adventure. Follow along as he and his son strive to climb one of the World's Seven Summits, meet the children who will benefit from their fundraising, and come to an understanding that one or two people really can make a difference. It is a journey that leaves the two with the lasting impression that nothing is more satisfying than reaching a goal and giving others the opportunity to achieve theirs. "If you're the kind of person who can usually find any excuse to talk yourself out of a great idea, this book is the inspiration you need to get out of your comfort zone and make things happen." Helen Osler, author of Cameras of Kilimanjaro, Australia

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Resources

The Secret Truth: A Jake Scott Mystery (Book): https://amzn.to/3BVs9Uo

Kilimanjaro and Beyond: A Life-Changing Journey (Book): https://amzn.to/3Noyk64

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