I’m so excited to introduce to you a few of the prominent characters in my cast for The New Dawn, an intelligent espionage conspiracy thriller.
The theme for this book is trust & betrayal, and I could not imagine a more perfect cast to live out this story!
The Protagonists:
Caterina Ellis

Born in Italy, but moved to the states at nine years old, Caterina has followed in the footsteps of her parents and godfather to work at the international Covert Security Intelligence Network (the Network).
She is loyal, hardworking, and caring. But still learning how to navigate her emotions. She is strong, but sometimes doesn’t feel like she is. She tries to do the right thing, but often feels like she has made the wrong decision, again.
A Few Favorite Things:
- Espresso
- Italian wine
- Roman carbonara
André Marco Cabral Torres

Recruited from the slums of Brazil as a teenager, André is an assassin trained in capoeira—the Brazilian martial art that combines combat with the fluidity and rhythm of dance. The extraordinary tales of his missions are legendary within the Network. André is brooding, judgmental, and fiercely protective.
A Few Favorite Things:
- Alone time
- Cool tech
- Feeling in control of things
The Supporting Cast:
Jamison Baines
Godfather of Caterina Ellis and Director of the DC Center branch of the Network. Jamison is thoughtful, patient, and brilliant. His greatest priorities in life are his goddaughter and bringing peace to the world.
A Couple Favorite Things:
- Excellent wine
- Spending time in Rome
Michael Moirer
Mike is a tech genius working for the Network. He’s had a crush on Caterina ever since he laid eyes on her, but they’ve only ever been “work friends.”
Mike is skilled, intuitive, and sensitive. He may not exude a lot of confidence, but he is stronger than anyone would guess. (He’s so fun to write!)
A Couple Favorite Things:
- Cool tech
- Hacking into places illegally
Nathan Causey
His pale skin makes him look sickly, but don’t let that fool you—Nathan Causey is a force to be reckoned with. He’s cunning, strategic, and an officer at the Network.
A Couple Favorite Things:
- Cachaça, a Brazilian spirit distilled from fermented sugarcane juice
- Winning arguments
Dr. Jack Young
Supportive, philosophical, and a great friend. Dr. Jack Young is an emergency room doctor with a big heart and even bigger faith.
A Couple Favorite Things:
- Pondering life
- Helping people heal
They want to meet you too!
I hope you enjoyed these snippets as much I enjoyed writing them! These characters are so close to my heart, and I cannot wait for you to get to know them better through my thriller, The New Dawn.
This story is all about trust & betrayal—so tell me, who do you think is the most trustworthy character in this cast? And who might be hiding something? Drop your guesses in the comments below!
This thriller is not yet published. Publishing journey updates are posted on this book page.
Stay Updated on The New Dawn
Sign up to receive Sarah’s latest content and book news by email.
We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at anytime. Our Privacy Policy.

S.J. Siedenburg is a thriller & fantasy novelist, an editor, and a bibliophile with a passion for stories and helping writers finish their novels. She’s the author of the guidebooks Character Presentation, Before the First Draft, and the How to Write a Novel online course. Six of her short stories have been published through writing contests. Sarah lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” —John 1:5
