My latest mystery novel is now available for pre-order wherever you buy books.
What’s the story about?
This story centers on twelve-years-old soccer-obsessed Diez Espada who is named after the jersey number of Leo Messi. Diez loves to dabble in solving mystery, but his dad would prefer if Diez could focus on soccer. When Diez is unexpectedly invited to a glitzy World Cup party in Miami his love for fútbol and solving mysteries collide! While on display in front of Miami’s most glamorous and powerful residents, the famous trophy is taken!
Diez is thrust into the most thrilling match of his life. Teaming up with his crush, Rio, and the world-famous Detective Enzo, Diez dives headfirst into a one-night whirlwind of secret tunnels and a squad of suspicious suspects: a spoiled son of a Miami tycoon, a famous sportscaster, and even Rio’s two prankster younger brothers.
The clock is ticking, the suspects are slippery, and the stadium lights are ready to shine. Will Diez find the trophy in time for the World Cup championship match?
What was your inspiration for the novel?
As you may already know, the FIFA World Cup’s final tournament game is the most-watched sporting event in the world, and this summer, North America will host the men’s games. This is thrilling not only for soccer fans like me, but also an exciting setting for a mystery novel.
Before I set out to write the novel, I researched the World Cup tournament and hunted for a real mystery. I found it hiding in plain sight: the iconic (and very valuable) trophy! Did you know that the first World Cup trophy known as the Jules Rimet was almost taken during WWII by the Nazis? Later, the same trophy was stolen while on display in London in 1966. Luckily, a sweet pup named Pickles discovered it on his morning walk. Way to go, Pickles! But that’s not all: In 1983, while the Jules Rimet trophy was on display in Rio De Janeiro, it was taken in the night and never seen again!
Inspired by the trophy’s storied past, The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup Trophy became my love letter to fútbol and the classic whodunit mysteries.
When will the book come out?
The book’s official release dates is May 5, 2026. It’s now available for pre-order wherever you buy books (Amazon, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, and independent bookstores everywhere). It will be available in English and Spanish. Yay! Keep your eyes open on my Instagram account as there will be some advance giveaways.
