Through the Shadows began as an investigation into the Sims triple homicide, and grew into a broader study of Florida’s cold cases and missing-person inquiries. This book chronicles my transformation from curious investigator to committed advocate for victims and invites readers to help shed light on stories that are too often left unanswered.
Through the Shadows, three years in the making, began as a deep dive into the Sims case—a haunting, unsolved triple homicide that lingered like a specter over my thoughts for years. I had chased it tirelessly, combing through records, interviews, and whispers lost to time, determined to shed light on this decades-old mystery. What started as an investigation into one tragic night in Tallahassee grew into something much deeper and more personal. With each interview, record search, and late-night note, I thought I was simply uncovering facts. Instead, I found stories layered with grief, resilience, and unanswered questions that reached far beyond a single crime. What began as a focused investigation expanded into a range of cases crying out for attention.
I soon found myself detouring from the Sims case to cover other missing person mysteries, cold cases, and overlooked victims. Each chapter introduced new crimes, new names, and new communities. I revisited stories from the Paradise After Dark: Missing & Unsolved podcast, a true crime podcast I host with my husband, Ken, and the work we do through The Florida Themis Project, our non-profit organization that is committed to raising awareness for Florida’s missing and unsolved and helping families and loved ones affected by them. Those intersections revealed a shared thread: too many families forced into silence by bureaucracy, stigma, or sheer exhaustion.
True crime shows and documentaries often highlight the sensational aspects of their subjects. They focus on twists, confessions, and dramatic evidence. What rarely gets shown is the slow, tedious grind of legal procedures. Without that context, fans assume investigations and trials happen in weeks instead of years, that every piece of evidence is airtight, and that prosecutors always seek justice rather than taking the easier route.
Understanding the legal system requires more than just binge-watching documentaries. It demands patience, attention to detail, and respect for both victims and the rights of the accused. With a degree in paralegal studies and a background in law enforcement, I also aim to bridge that knowledge gap, turning casual interest into meaningful action.
However, the most unexpected revelation was this: Through the Shadows became my own story, a chronicle of transformation. I had always been fascinated by true crime—the psychology, the investigative process, and the courtroom drama. But over time, that fascination evolved. I started to see beyond the headlines and the horror—to witness the pain, the injustice, and the resilience of those left behind.
I started out as someone drawn to the “whodunit” thrill. True crime was entertainment; a puzzle to solve. But immersing myself in these lives changed my perspective. I stopped just admiring the mystery and began supporting the people behind it. I no longer see myself simply as a storyteller—I am a victims’ advocate.
This book is not just a recounting of crimes; it’s a record of the lessons I’ve learned about empathy, accountability, and the power of silence. It reflects my journey from a curious fan to someone who now fights for visibility, answers, and dignity for those whose stories are often reduced to a footnote.
Through the Shadows isn’t only what’s written on the page—it’s what drives the work we continue to do. It’s also a reminder that when we give voice to the voiceless, we become more than mere observers. We become part of the change.
Through the Shadows is not a conclusion—it’s a call to action. I invite readers to help amplify the voices of those who are marginalized, advocate for policy changes, and ensure that no victim is forgotten. Whether you listen to our podcast, volunteer with Themis or any similar organization, or share the stories in this book, your voice is important. Together, we can shine a light on every shadow and seek answers to every unanswered question.
Get your copy today - Through the Shadows
 | A guest post by
|