Saturday, April 30, 2016

Shelley's Review- Girl on the Run by Daryl Wood Gerber

My review for this week is Girl on the Run by Daryl Wood Gerber.







Paperback: 296 pages
Publisher: Chucklin, Inc. (April 7, 2016)
Language: English



“Readers will be shocked by this exciting, fast-paced thriller’s twists and turns." Kirkus Reviews From nationally bestselling author Daryl Wood Gerber comes a gripping new suspense!

When a fairytale fantasy night becomes a nightmare, Chessa Paxton must run for her life...but will the truth set her free?

Chessa Paxton, an event planner in Lake Tahoe, celebrates a successful night at the Happily Ever After Ball, but her dream quickly becomes a nightmare when she wakes up beside the body of her dead husband. Nauseous and confused, feeling as if she's been drugged, she can't explain to the sheriff why her princess costume is bloodied. With her father already a convicted murderer, she feels invisible shackles ratcheting onto her wrists and ankles. She runs! But she can't escape vivid flashes of memory: a massacre in a meadow; men and women in fairy tale costumes; Snow White’s dead body shielding her from bullets.

Though Chessa is a former costumer and a master of disguise, she quickly learns that hiding while trying to prove herself innocent is the most difficult task imaginable. Especially when the sheriff wants to throw her in jail and the real killer wants to silence her forever.



Girl on the Run is a gripping and intense suspense mystery that will have you on the edge of your seat. Fast-paced and action packed you will be pulled in from the start. Daryl Wood Gerber has dipped her hand into the suspense mystery genre and has a hit on her hands with her debut book. Get it today for a thrilling ride.






Agatha Award-winning and nationally bestselling author DARYL WOOD GERBER ventures into the world of suspense with her gripping debut novel, GIRL ON THE RUN.

Daryl also writes the bestselling Cookbook Nook Mysteries.

As Avery Aames, she pens the bestselling Cheese Shop Mysteries.

Fun tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in "Murder, She Wrote". In addition, she has jumped out of a perfectly good airplane and hitchhiked around Ireland by herself. She absolutely adores Lake Tahoe, where GIRL ON THE RUN is set, and she has a frisky Goldendoodle named Sparky.

Visit Daryl at www.darylwoodgerber.com.

Friday, April 29, 2016

What's New? Newlywed Dead by Nancy J. Parra

What's New? Coming May 3rd to bookstores and e-readers near you. Newlywed Dead(Perfectly Proposals Mystery) by Nancy J. Parra.








Series: Perfect Proposals Mystery (Book 3)
Mass Market Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Berkley (May 3, 2016)
Language: English



In the new Perfect Proposals mystery from the author of Bodice of Evidence and Engaged in Murder, a country club wedding reception becomes the scene of a baffling crime.


The wedding for Pepper Pomeroy’s sister Felicity starts with dearly beloved but it ends with dearly departed when Ashley, the bartender Pepper befriended earlier in the evening, drops dead from a lethal nightcap. Authorities think it’s just a tragic accident. After all, who’d want to kill a virtual stranger at a country club wedding reception? That’s what Pepper wants to know.


A search into Ashley’s past reveals a twisty path of secret sororities, well-connected enemies, and an unsolved slaying still shadowing members of high society—including a filthy-rich battle-ax whose demands for the services of Pepper’s Perfect Proposals are starting to sound more like veiled threats. Pepper’s business may be booming but continued success means outsmarting a mysterious culprit who’s still wedded to the idea of murder.


About the Author




Nancy J. Parra is the author of Bodice of Evidence and Engaged in Murder in the Perfect Proposals Mystery series and Flourless to Stop Him, Murder Gone A-Rye, and Gluten for Punishment in the Baker’s Treat Mystery series. She lives in California with her trusty Bichon-Poo, whom she refers to warmly as “Little Dog.” Parra also authors the national bestselling Candy-Coated Mystery series as Nancy Coco.


Thursday, April 28, 2016

Blog Tour- Without a Doubt by Nancy Cole Silverman

Nancy Cole Silverman is is here today. The next installment of the Carol Childs Mystery Without a Doubt is being released on May 24th. You won't want to miss this one.







Without a Doubt (A Carol Childs Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Henery Press (May 24, 2016)
Paperback: 258 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1635110258
E-Book ASIN: B01C4LEFTE


Synopsis

As radio reporter Carol Childs investigates a series of Beverly Hills jewelry heists, she realizes her FBI boyfriend, Eric, is working the same case. Even worse, she may have inadvertently helped the suspect escape. The situation intensifies when the suspect calls the radio station during a live broadcast, baiting Carol deeper into the investigation.

In order for her to uncover the truth, Carol must choose between her job and her personal relationships. What started out as coincidence between Carol and Eric becomes a race for the facts—pitting them against one another—before the thieves can pull off a daring escape, leaving a trail of dead bodies behind, and taking the jewels with them.

Related subjects include: women sleuths, murder mystery series, whodunit mysteries (whodunnit), book club recommendations, suspense, noir.

Books in the Carol Childs Mystery Series:
• SHADOW OF DOUBT (#1)
• BEYOND A DOUBT (#2)
• WITHOUT A DOUBT (#3)

Praise for this series:
“Carol is a smart, savvy heroine that will appeal to readers. This is a cozy with a bite.” – Rosemary Smith, Books for Avid Readers (on Shadow of Doubt)

“Fast paced and cleverly plotted, an edgy cozy with undertones of noir.” – Sue McGinty, Author of the Bella Kowalski Central Coast Mysteries (on Beyond a Doubt)

I really enjoyed this book. Cozy mystery with humor and attitude, that draws you in from the first page. You won't want to stop reading this one. This is by far my favorite in the series and am looking forward to what will happen next.





About The Author –

Nancy Cole Silverman credits her twenty-five years in radio for helping her to develop an ear for storytelling. In 2001, Silverman retired from news and copywriting to write fiction full time. In 2014, Silverman signed with Henery Press for her new mystery series, The Carol Childs’ Mysteries. The first of the series, Shadow of Doubt, debuted in December 2014 and the second, Beyond a Doubt, debuted July 2015. The third, Without A Doubt, is available in May 2016. For more information visit www.nancycolesilverman.com


Author Links –
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nancy-Cole-Silverman/314202208737024?ref=h
GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4027978.Nancy_Cole_Silverman
Twitter: @NancyColeSilve1


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Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Last Light by Cj Lyons

Welcome to another exciting tour with Novel Publicity. Today we're pleased to share an interview with our featured author, CJ Lyons!





In a world of constantly changing markets, readership and trends, we’d like to talk to you a bit more today on how you cope with constant change as an author. Social media can be hard to manage for some people, do you have any useful tips for how to use social media as an author?

CJ: If it energizes you and makes you more creative, helps you get more words on the page, then have a blast! If you see it as a burden that sucks the creativity from your day (that’s me, lol!) then don’t worry about it. It’s just one more tool and there are many ways to reach readers.

How much time to you devote to social media for your books each day (or week)?

CJ: I’m lucky if I remember to post something during any given week, so almost nothing. If I am there spending time on social media it’s not because it’s scheduled but rather because my readers are engaging me. Conversations are much easier for me than remembering to come up with a clever meme and posting it.

Many authors use platforms such as Facebook to escape when they suffer writer's’ block. Do you ever do this, and have you found any creative ways to use social media to inspire your writing?

CJ: Nope…I never go to FB except to post or answer reader’s comments/messages. I’m a hermit by nature and I’ve learned to embrace the fact that I’m simply not “social” in the social media sense. Plus, any time/words spent on social media are less times/words spent on getting the story told—which is what my readers keep telling me is what they want, more books.

Your www.cjlyons.net offers lots of extras including your books, research links and tips for writers. Can you tell us a bit about building your site? Who helped you, and how much work is it to keep up to date?

CJ: I built it myself—after several disastrous encounters with web designers who’d flake out on me right when I needed them most. But remember, former ER doc here, so I’m a total control freak. I’ve had the site since 2004 so it’s grown over time. Now it’s so large that my biggest challenge is pruning the clutter, something I’m slowly tackling. I don’t blog, so it really doesn’t take a lot of time to keep up other than listing new titles.

Now that we’ve talked about your website, we’d like to know if you read blogs, or have other favorite websites, and if you do, what’s your favorite right now?

CJ: I run my life from my email inbox so I only follow blogs/newsfeeds that have an email subscription option (you wouldn’t believe how many don’t!) I follow my friend, Joanna Penn’s writing blog, TheCreativePenn.com because she’s brilliant and so energetic—I recommend her site to any aspiring author. Other than that the main blogs I follow are sites like the FBI, Officer.com, The Browser, the New York Times and Washington Post, Big Think, the Crime Report, and LifeHacker—places where quirky stories come my way and inspire my writing.

You have links to facebook and twitter social media links on your website. Is there a specific channel you’re more likely to be active on, and if so why?

CJ: My twitter followers are mainly fellow writers and I’ve pretty much given up on it—it’s overwhelming for someone who doesn’t go online very much. I have a FB page (https://www.facebook.com/cj.lyons) and enjoy interacting with readers there, but I don’t post much except fun quotes I stumble across (I collect quotes), the occasional news on my books, and deals on good books that come across my inbox. Sometimes I’ll do events there with fellow thriller authors like Toni McGee Causey or Debra Webb—authors I know my readers will enjoy hearing from. But it’s all very low key.

Newsletters are one of many ways authors like to keep in touch with their readership. Can you tell us what subscribers can expect when they sign up for your newsletter, and how often they might hear from you?

CJ: I try to do at least one Thrillers with Heart newsletter a month (it always amazes me when readers write and ask for more!) and I keep it short and sweet—usually a featured deal on a book, or an exclusive read for my fans, occasionally a special guest feature with a fellow thriller author my fans know and love. When you sign up for my Thrillers with Heart mailing list, you’ll receive a free copy of Snake Skin, the first Lucy Guardino FBI Thriller with your welcome email. I also send other free reads when inspiration hits me and I can get organized enough to upload the files.

Where do you go for social media and marketing advice? Know any great books or tips other authors might find useful?

CJ: As I mentioned above, Joanna Penn is the shining star here. Also the guys at the Self Publishing Podcast are awesome. There’s so much advice out there, it’s really hard not to find the answer to any questions you have. Years ago that wasn’t the case, so I began my own writing blog, NoRulesJustWrite.com in order to give something back. It’s still there with all the resources available but I’ve stopped adding new material as my mission of showing people their publishing options was accomplished.

One last chance...If you were doing it all over again, would you change anything about how you published, got cover art made, or got the word out about your books?

CJ: When I first self-published back in 2009 no one really knew what it was all about. I started because my NYC publisher insisted on releasing only one book a year and my readers were deluging me with emails asking for more. I even offered to give my publisher free short stories to release between books to keep the readers happy but they refused. So when I heard about Kindle and self-publishing I realized I had the answer—I could publish manuscripts that for a variety of reasons had been accepted by NYC publishers, professionally copyedited, etc, but never made it to actual publication. That way my readers would be happy and remember my name in between my print books. There were few freelance graphic designers doing cover art in those days and that’s my one regret. I found one within six months of publishing once I realized that my e-books were really taking off, but I wish I’d had one from the beginning. Also, even though my earlier books had been through NYC publisher’s copy-editors, I realized early on that copy-editing wasn’t the same as proofreading and I quickly hired freelance proofreaders and revised those manuscripts. Now, I often have the cover art before I even start a book (my designer does them in batches to keep the series branded) and I hire the same developmental editors, copyeditors, and proofreaders that my NYC publishers use! I love it when readers can’t tell the difference between my self-published titles and my NYC published ones.

Thanks for joining us today Cj!

About the Books

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author CJ Lyons. For fans of Lisa Gardner, Tami Hoag, and Jeffery Deaver: "Everything a great thriller should be--action packed, authentic, and intense." ~#1 New York Times bestselling author Lee Child After leaving the FBI, life should be easy, right? Wrong--not if you're Lucy Guardino. Lucy has always seen herself as a normal Pittsburgh soccer mom who happened to have a job chasing the worst of the worst. But after a violent predator targets her family and she's injured, Lucy sacrifices her career with the FBI in order to keep her family safe. What is she now that she's no longer a FBI Special Agent? she wonders as she begins her new job with the Beacon Group, a private consulting firm that specializes in cold cases and bringing justice to forgotten victims.Lucy fears she's traded being a kick-ass law enforcement officer for being a civilian mother hen shepherding a team of amateurs. What is she now that she's no longer a FBI Special Agent?

she wonders as she begins her new job with the Beacon Group, a private consulting firm that specializes in cold cases and bringing justice to forgotten victims.Lucy fears she's traded being a kick-ass law enforcement officer for being a civilian mother hen shepherding a team of amateurs. Her fears appear justified when she's partnered with TK O'Connor, a former Marine MP struggling with her transition to life back home, and sent to rural Texas to investigate a case that's more than cold, it's already been closed with the killers behind bars for the past twenty-nine years. But...who really killed Lily Martin, her infant daughter, and husband?

Why was an entire family targeted for anihilation? What price will Lucy pay when she fights to expose a truth people will kill to keep buried? LAST LIGHT is the seventh Lucy Guardino novel, but they can be read out of order. If you enjoy captivating suspense, intelligent storytelling,strong and vulnerable characters, and a freight-train pace, then you'll love this adrenaline rush of a heart-pounding thriller. Join the millions of readers who've fallen for CJ's Thrillers with Heart and grab your copy of LAST LIGHT today!

My Review;

This fast-paced action filled drama will keep you mesmerized by the story. The cast of Characters are strong and intense. A gripping non- stop read you won't want to put down. Cj Lyons is a Brilliant story teller and this book shows that. I loved the ride with each page and look forward to reading the next one.





amazon.com
Barnes-Noble-Logokobo 



Pediatric ER doctor turned New York Times bestselling thriller writer CJ Lyons has been a storyteller all her life—something that landed her in many time-outs as a kid. She writes her Thrillers with Heart for the same reason that she became a doctor: because she believes we all have the power to change our world. In the ER she witnessed many acts of courage by her patients and their families, learning that heroes truly are born every day. When not writing, she can be found walking the beaches near her Lowcountry home, listening to the voices in her head and plotting new and devious ways to create mayhem for her characters. To learn more about her Thrillers with Heart go to www.CJLyons.net Connect with CJ on her website, Facebook, or Twitter.




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Book Trivia hosted by Terri L. Austin

I am thrilled to have Terri L.Austin hosting trivia today.Leave answers and email in the comments for a chance to win. Good Luck!








Thanks for having me on, Shelley. My name is Terri L. Austin and I write the Rose Strickland Mystery series. Today, I’ll be asking a few trivia questions from my series. The person who answers the most, wins. In case of a tie, I’ll let Shelley pick a winner. (Continental U.S. only.) Up for grabs is any one of my e-books. Winner’s choice—mobi or epub.

Okay, let’s get this party started!

1. What is Rose’s real name?

2. What color is Roxy’s hair?

3. Where does Rose work?

4. Who is Rose’s IT friend?

5. What is the name of Rose’s boyfriend?

6. And my favorite question, what does this boyfriend do for a living?


Good luck, kittens! Thanks again, Shelley!

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Blog Tour- Silence of the Lamps by Karen Rose Smith

I'm excited to be part of Karen Rose Smith's blog tour. Silence of the Lamps is released today. This is the fifth book in the series.







Silence of the Lamps (A Caprice De Luca Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
5th in Series
Kensington (April 26, 2016)
Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages



Synopsis

Caprice’s house staging is disrupted by Drew Pierson, a caterer who opened Portable Edibles, a business in direct competition with her sister Nikki’s Catered Capers. Nikki turned down Drew as a possible partner and he seems determined to undermine and bury her. However his successful launch of a deal for his blackberry barbecue sauce must have stirred up his enemies. When Nikki visits the house where Drew lives with his grandmother to resolve differences, she and Caprice find him dead–murdered with the base of a valuable Tiffany lamp.

Caprice discovers clues about Drew’s sly business dealings–from stealing recipes from another chef, to friends who hold grudges, to a sister who will now inherit half of her grandmother’s estate since Drew is dead. In the midst of her own romantic relationship upheaval, helping her uncle set up his pet sitting-business, assisting a friend care for a pregnant stray cat, Caprice follows the suspect trail, inadvertently putting herself in danger once more.

STAGED TO DEATH, Book 1
DEADLY DECOR, Book 2
GILT BY ASSOCIATION, Book 3 February 2015
DRAPE EXPECTATIONS, Book 4 August 2015
SILENCE OF THE LAMPS, Book 5 May 2016
SHADES OF WRATH, Book 6 December 2016


This has been a fun series from the start. It's packed with fun, humor and murder that you won't be able to stop reading.




About The Author –

Award winning and best-selling author, Karen Rose Smith’s plots are all about emotion. She began writing in her early teens when she listened to music and created stories to accompany the songs. An only child, she spent a lot of time in her imagination and with books–Nancy Drew, Zane Gray, The Black Stallion and Anne of Green Gables. She dreamed of brothers and sisters and a big family like her mother and father came from. This is the root of her plotlines that include small communities and family relationships as part of everyday living. Residing in Pennsylvania with her husband and four rescued cats, she welcomes interaction with readers on social media.


Author Links:

Webpage: http://karenrosesmithmysteries.com/
Blog: http://karenrosesmith.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenRoseSmithBooks
Twitter: https://twitter.com/karenrosesmith
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21863.Karen_Rose_Smith
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/karosm/



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Monday, April 25, 2016

First in Series - Staged to Death by Karen Rose Smith

This weeks first in series is Staged to Death(A Caprice De Luca Mystery) by Karen Rose Smith. Released on December 3, 2013.









Series: A Caprice De Luca Mystery (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Kensington (December 3, 2013)
Language: English



Cozy mystery, Book 1 in the Caprice De Luca home-stager mystery series

Caprice De Luca stages houses for high-end clients. When she discovers a body in the castle-mansion she staged to sell and starts asking questions, she finds herself in danger. On the way to solving the murder, Caprice's large Italian family helps and hinders. She also finds romance with Dr. Seth Randolph. But does her brother's partner, attorney Grant Weatherford, care about her, too? Or is he just worried she'll get herself killed and her family will blame him?

Enjoy solving the mystery with Caprice, cook along with her, see her find homes for the stray animals she protects, be a part of the De Luca family...in STAGED TO DEATH.

Watch for Book 2, DEADLY DECOR, in June 2014.
Watch for Book 3, GILT BY ASSOCIATION, in February 2015.
Watch for Book 4, DRAPE EXPECTATIONS, in August 2015
Watch for Book 5, SILENCE OF THE LAMPS, in March 2016



About the Author:


Karen Rose Smith is writing mysteries as well as romances now! Her plots, whether in mystery or romance, are all about relationships.

She began writing in her early teens when she listened to music and created stories to accompany the songs. After expressing feelings in poetry, earning a degree in English and French, completing short stories that became too long to find a market, she turned to her fascination with relationships to writing romances and now mysteries. This award-winning best-selling author (USA Today List, Borders Bestseller List, Amazon Romance Bestseller lists, Barnes and Noble Bestseller list) will see her 95th novel released in 2016. She has published with Silhouette, Harlequin, Kensington and Meteor/Kismet. Her awards include two Golden Leaf awards in short contemporary romance, the Golden Quill in traditional romance, two cataromance.com's awards for Best Special Editions and Romance Review's Today's Best series romance award. Jane Bowers of Romance Reviews Today states: "Karen Rose Smith's storyworlds are complete and realistic and lovely places to visit and revisit. She excels at stories that feature couples brought together by infants and children, and she handles her plots and characters with sublime sensitivity."

Karen is well-known for writing emotion-packed novels. An only child, she spent a lot of time in her imagination and with books--Nancy Drew, Zane Gray, The Black Stallion and Anne of Green Gables. She dreamt of brothers and sisters and a big family like her mother and father came from--seven children in her mom's family and ten in her dad's. On weekends she was often surrounded by aunts, uncles and cousins. This is the root of her plotlines that include small communities and family relationships as integral to everyday living. She believes universal emotions unite us all and that is the reason she employs them to propel her plots.

It is no secret that Karen married her college sweetheart and they have been married for 44 years. She believes in the power of commitment and the hope that goes along with the promise of everlasting love. Along with enjoying time with her husband, Karen enjoys cooking, watercolor painting, gardening, shopping, listening to music and keeping her four rescued cats company or vice versa.

She has been busy indie publishing her SEARCH FOR LOVE series. In addition, she is writing her Caprice De Luca mystery series as well as her Daisy Tea Garden series for Kensington Along with romances for Harlequin Special Edition. Readers can follow her on Facebook (Search--Karen Rose Smith) or on

Twitter @karenrosesmith.

 Contact her through her website www.karenrosesmith.com or KarenRoseSmithMysteries.com

if you'd like to belong to her street team or her readers group on Facebook. She welcomes interaction with her readers on Facebook and Twitter, and would love to chat about plotlines, titles, emotions, heroes, heroines, music, books, gardening, cooking, or anything else readers deem noteworthy!

http://www.karenrosesmith.com

Sunday, April 24, 2016

Weekly Wrap Up #17

It was a fun week here, thank you to all who have visited.







Coming this week to Shelley's Book Case


April 25th- First in a Series- Staged to Death by Karen Rose Smith
April 26th- Author Spotlight and Blog Tour- Silence of the Lamps by Karen Rose Smith
April 27th- Book Trivia hosted by Terri L. Austin
April 28th- Blog Tour- Without a Doubt by Nancy Cole Silverman
April 29th- What's New? Newlywed Dead by Nancy J. Parra
April 30th- Shelley's reviews



Last week at Shelley's Book Case:



April 18th- First in Series- To Brew or Not to Brew by Joyce Tremel
April 19th- Author Spotlight- Joyce Tremel
April 20th- Book Trivia. Kate O'Connell
April 21st- Blog Tour- Meddling with Murder by Ellie Campbell
April 22nd- Blog Tour- Raisin the Dead by Karoline Barrett
April 23rd- Blog Tour- With a Vengeance by Annette Dashofy

Saturday, April 23, 2016

Blog Tour- and Giveaway- With a Vengeance by Annette Dashofy

I am so happy to be part of Annette Dashofy's blog tour. The next installment of the Zoe Chambers Mystery Series With a Vengeance will be released on May 3rd. Special guest today is Zoe Chambers herself. I am so thrilled she is her today. Have you followed this series from the start? Are you a Fan?








Series: A Zoe Chambers Mystery
Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Henery Press (May 3, 2016)
Language: English



Synopsis

Paramedic Zoe Chambers and the rest of rural Monongahela County’s EMS and fire personnel are used to wading into the middle of trouble to rescue the sick and the injured. But when someone with an ax to grind seeks retribution by staging accident scenes and gunning down the first responders, Zoe finds herself forced to not only treat her own brethren of the front lines, but also, in her role as deputy coroner, seek out whoever is killing her friends.

At the same time, Vance Township Police Chief Pete Adams races to track down a gun, a mysterious all-terrain vehicle, and the sniper before Zoe goes back on duty, placing herself—and Pete—firmly in the gunman’s crosshairs.

Related subjects include: cozy mysteries, women sleuths, murder mystery series, whodunit mysteries (whodunnit), book club recommendations, audio books for download, police procedurals series, amateur sleuth books.


Books in the Zoe Chambers Mystery Series:

• CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE (#1)
• LOST LEGACY (#2)
• BRIDGES BURNED (#3)
• WITH A VENGEANCE (#4)


Zoe Chambers is back and she is ready for action in this intense and gripping whodunit. She will do what she needs to do to find the killer that is going after her friends. Fast-paced page turner will have you up all night reading. I couldn't put it down.The characters are so well developed and with the strong story line this book brings you into the story and keeps you captive until the end. I am excited and looking forward to the next adventure Zoe will get into.



My name is Zoe Chambers and I’ve been asked to write a blog for Shelley. This is all new to me, so I hope I don’t mess it up too bad.

I’m a paramedic for Monongahela County EMS in southwestern Pennsylvania. I’ve been riding the ambulance for over ten years and love it. I guess I’m something of an adrenalin junky. When the lights and sirens are going and we’re racing to a call, I know I’m doing exactly what I was meant to do.

A year or so ago, I was offered the position of deputy coroner as well. I jumped on it, thinking I’d get to play crime scene investigator like on TV. Boy was I wrong! My duties consisted mainly of calling time of death on a few poor old folks who expired in their homes. Occasionally, I’d pronounce a traffic accident victim dead, which for a paramedic is a little disconcerting. I mean, I’m used to jumping in and trying to save lives. Not pronouncing them officially deceased.

One other thing about this deputy coroner gig I hadn’t considered—autopsies. Let me tell you, folks, I have seen a lot of stuff in my years on the ambulance. I could gross you out with my stories without half trying. But I can’t handle an autopsy. I try. The smells get me. Every. Time. My boss, Coroner Franklin Marshall, and our forensic pathologist both think it’s funny to see me bolt for the door. Trust me. It’s not funny.

Anyhow, for the most part, there’s darned little investigating. Franklin takes on all the interesting cases for himself.

Or most of them.

We had a case recently that was a little too up close and personal for me. One of the other crews with Mon County EMS responded to a call for an ATV accident back in some reclaimed strip mines. When they got there, a sniper opened fire. One of the guys—a really close friend of mine—was killed. His partner had to be Life Flighted to a Pittsburgh hospital. Franklin asked me to give him a hand at the crime scene to process my friend’s body. It’s been weird, over the years, working on a patient who turns out to be someone I know. It was a thousand times worse processing the deceased body of a co-worker.

I’m really sorry. This is still hard for me to talk about. But my friend Annette Dashofy has written a book about the case. It’s called With a Vengeance. I hope you’ll pick up a copy.


Thanks for letting me be here today. Now I need to get to the barn. Yeah, not only am I a paramedic and a deputy coroner, I also manage a barn where I keep my horse. No rest for the wicked, as they say.






About The Author –

Annette Dashofy is the USA Today best-selling author of the Zoe Chambers mystery series about a paramedic and deputy coroner in rural Pennsylvania’s tight-knit Vance Township. CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE, published by Henery Press, was a finalist for the Agatha Award for Best First Novel and for the David Award for Best Mystery of 2014. LOST LEGACY, was released in September 2014 followed in April 2015 by BRIDGES BURNED, which has been nominated for the Agatha for Best Contemporary Novel. WITH A VENGEANCE, the fourth in the series, will be available May 3.

Author Links

website– www.annettedashofy.com
blog– http://annettedashofy.blogspot.com/
Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/annette.dashofy
Twitter– @Annette_Dashofy



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Friday, April 22, 2016

Blog Tour- and Giveaway- Raisin the Dead by Karoline Barrett

I am so delighted to have Karoline Barrett here with us today, Her new book Raisin the Dead was released on April 19th.







Raisin the Dead:
A Bread and Batter Mystery
2nd in Series
Cozy Mystery
Publisher: InterMix (April 19, 2016)



Synopsis


The author of Bun for Your Life returns to Destiny, New York, where bakery owners and amateur sleuths Molly Tyler and Olivia Williams never crumble under pressure…


While the rest of Destiny is focused on the arrival of an upper crust perfume mogul, Molly is more concerned about what’s on the front page of the newspaper: her mother. Library director Anne Tyler was photographed at the most romantic restaurant in town having a cozy dinner with library advisory board member Philip Baldelli. But there’s more for Molly to worry about after Philip is found dead a few days later.


When Detective Sean Corsino zeroes in on Anne as a person of interest in the case, it turns down the heat on his budding romance with Molly. But after he’s injured during the course of his investigation, Molly and Olivia must step in to sift through the clues and clear Anne’s name.



This has been a fun series from the start. Molly wants to get the scoop on what is happening with her mother and why she made the headlines.But when Philip[ is murder her life gets turned around and she has to put her mother on hold and find out who the killer is and why. This is a fun fast-paced whodunit that will keep you guessing to the end. I was captivated from the start and couldn't put it down. Looking forward to find out what will happen next with Molly and her friends.




I’m so excited that Detective Sean Corsino has stopped by to talk to us today! We get to know Detective Corsino in my Bread and Batter series through Molly’s eyes, but I thought it would be nice to hear from the detective himself!

1. Welcome, Detective Corsino! How do you like Destiny, NY so far? Please call me Sean. Destiny is beautiful, and I consider it home, now. The lake is spectacular. I was raised in New York City and was a detective there for quite a while. Destiny is a nice break from big city life.

2. Let me get this question out of the way. Say the Bread and Batter series makes it to television. Whom do you see playing your role? Wow. That’s a tough one. I think I ought to be able to play myself. How’s that for an answer?

3. You took the easy way out! Okay, I’ll let you off the hook this time. So, what’s the difference in being a detective in a large city and being one in a small town, and which do you like better? Since I’ve been in Destiny, I’ve gotten to know many residents by their first names, which I didn’t do in New York. There’s a sense of community here that was sometimes missing in New York City. Also, the police department here is much smaller than the one in New York. Not only am I a detective here, I have to make sure the maintenance on our police cars is kept up. And, I take care of Dusty, my patrol horse. If there’s a light out at the corner of Main and Beaumont, you might see me directing traffic. Chief Carly might be running radar out one of our rural highways on any given afternoon. Our evidence room also doubles as our break room. As to your second question, I think I like a small department better. Less stress and aggravation, and a more laid-back lifestyle.

4. You’ve met someone special since you’ve moved here. Yes, I have.

5. You’ve got to give us more than that! Is she the one causing the big smile on your face? You all know her as the owner of Bread and Batter Bakery, Molly Tyler. We met when I first arrived in town. Our relationship has grown since then, but I don’t want to give anything away. You’ll read more about us in Raisin the Dead.

6. hope we read more about yours and Molly’s dogs, Beau and Noelle, too. You will! We’re both crazy about those two. I’m hoping our writer gives them more to do in future books.

7. That would be awesome. How do you feel about Molly’s mystery solving ability? I admit she’s almost as good at murder solving as she is at making her delicious cupcakes. I’d rather she leave police business to me, but something tells me that’s not gonna happen.

8. Are you working on a case now? Since the mystery in Raisin the Dead’s been solved, things have been quiet in Destiny, but I’m sure that will change eventually.

9. What do you and Molly do when you’re both not working, or tracking down killers? We like keeping things simple: making dinner for each other, watching movies, hiking with the dogs, typical couple stuff. Hope I haven’t put you to sleep.

10. Not at all. You’re very charming! Thanks for joining us, Detective…Sean. Looking forward to reading more about you and Molly, and learning more about Destiny! Thanks for having me. I think you’ll all enjoy Raisin the Dead!






About The Author –

I live in a small Connecticut town with my husband. When I’m not writing, I’m either reading, spending time by the water, taking pictures, traveling, indulging in social media, accompanying above-mentioned husband to New York Yankees games, or doing anything that does not involve math..


Author Links

Webpage- http://www.karolinebarrett.com/

Blog http://www.karolinebarrett.com/category/blog/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KarolineBarrettBooks

Twitter- https://twitter.com/KarolineBarrett

Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3315555.Karoline_Barrett


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, April 21, 2016

Blog Tour- Meddling with Murder by Ellie Campbell

I am thrilled to be part of Ellie Campbell's blog tour for her new book Meddling with Murder.Have you read this book? Would you like the chance to win an e-copy of it? Leave a comment and email below to be entered.








Series: Crouch End Confidential
Paperback: 308 pages
Publisher: Across the Pond Press (March 29, 2016)
Language: English


Crouch End Confidential, the agency started by housewife and mother, Cathy O’Farrell, with ex-cleaner, Pimple is failing badly. Hardly surprising when Cathy’s too soft-hearted to charge their only clients, little old ladies seeking lost pets and a school kid searching for his stolen bike.


A new case involving a teenager in possession of an unexplained Glock pistol promises to change all that. Quickly Cathy’s deep in waters over her head, forced with hilarious results to pose as a mathematics tutor, a subject of which she’s truly clueless. There’s also the tricky situation of best friend and new mother Rosa hiring her to investigate her fiancé, Alec, plus the mysterious sabotage of Cathy’s friends’ cycle shop and a gang of yobbos dealing drugs at her children’s primary school.


Worst of all, an ill-fated trip to rural Norfolk has Cathy’s husband, Declan, intent on buying a post office and transplanting the family to safer climes, threatening to tear Cathy permanently from her beloved North London home.


Pretty soon Cathy’s risking her friendships, her marriage and even her life untangling all these messes. But that’s what you get for meddling in murder…


I enjoyed this book.With laughter and humor and a side of murder the author keep you captivated by the story and likable characters. Once you start it you won't be able to put it down. I look forward to reading more by this author.






About The Author


Ellie Campbell is a pseudonym for sister writing team, Pam Burks and Lorraine Campbell. Running wild as tomboys in Scotland, playing imagination games, they couldn’t dream that one day they’d co-author novels despite an ocean between them. From boring clerical jobs in London to a varied life of backpacking and adventure travel, both started almost accidentally as short story writers, Lorraine when working in publishing, Pam as a fun hobby while an at-home mother of three.


By the time each had 70 short stories published internationally, Pam was settled in Surrey, England, and Lorraine had finally taken root in Boulder, Colorado. Long telephone chats about life and fiction led to their current collaboration. They have produced five acclaimed novels – How To Survive Your Sisters, When Good Friends Go Bad, Looking For La La, To Catch A Creeper and Million Dollar Question. They write contemporary women’s fiction laced with humour, romance, and mystery.


When not hunched over computers, Lorraine, a certified ROTH ‘horse whisperer’, can usually be found messing about with her four rescue horses and Pam on a fund raising bike ride, madly cycling over mountains to Paris, Barcelona or Gibraltar on the back of her husband’s bone-shaking tandem.

Author Links:
Webpage: http://chicklitsisters.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ecampbellbooks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EllieCampbellbook

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Book Trivia hosted by Kate O'Connell

It's time for trivia and today's host is Kate O'Connell. Leave answers and email below for a chance to win a $10 gift card to Amazon.









1. Maddie Fitzpatrick arrives in her hometown of Pembroke, New Jersey after 15 years living in which city?


2. Laura can be exasperating but her intentions are good. What is her job at the St. Claire Dance Studio?


3. Maddie has never met Ricky Russo when she agrees to teach his class. What dance style does he teach?


4. When a dancer falls down dead during one of Maddie’s classes and the police arrive, who does Maddie run into for the first time in 15 years?


5. Which character in Dying to Dance drives a car the same colour as her nail polish?


6. Peter St. Claire is worried about the financial state of his dance studio but there is something even more important about to happen in his life. What is it?



Kate O’Connell is the author of the Maddie Fitzpatrick Dance Mysteries published by Cozy Cat Press. Kate studied in both the U.K. and the U.S. and earned degrees in theatre arts and dance history. While conducting her doctoral research, Kate taught and performed Argentine Tango which is where the inspiration for her cozy mystery series originated, allowing her to combine her knowledge of dance and her love of a good mystery.


The first book in the series, Dying to Dance, came out in 2014, followed by Dead Man Dancing in 2015. Kate is busy with the final touches to the third title, Dance or Die, coming out in December 2016. The series can be found both in print and digital formats at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. You can also find the inquisitive Argentine Tango teacher Maddie Fitzpatrick on facebook at Maddie Fitzpatrick Dance Mysteries.

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Author Spotlight- Joyce Tremel

I am thrilled to be spotlighting Joyce Tremel today. Joyce is the author of To Brew or Not to Brew( A Brewing Trouble Mystery). Released on December 1st 2015 it will have you hooked from the start. The next one in the series is coming out on October 4th and is called Tangled up in Brew. Don't miss this series is it really good.








Joyce Tremel was a police secretary for ten years and more than once envisioned the demise of certain co-workers, but settled on writing as a way to keep herself out of jail. Her flash fiction has appeared in Mysterical-e, and her non-fiction has been published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police magazine.


Her debut novel, TO BREW OR NOT TO BREW has been nominated for a 2015 Reviewers’ Choice Award for best amateur sleuth by Romantic Times. The second book in the series TANGLED UP IN BREW, is scheduled for release 10.4.2016.


Joyce is a native Pittsburgher, has two grown sons, and lives in a suburb of the city with her husband and a spoiled cat. When coming up with the idea for this series, she thought her big city with the small town feel would be the perfect setting for Max's brew pub. She hopes "yinz" guys agree! 


You can find more about Joyce and her books at http://www.joycetremel.com/

Monday, April 18, 2016

First in a Series- To Brew or Not to Brew by Joyce Tremel

Happy Monday to you! Today's First in Series is To Brew or not to Brew(A Brewing Trouble Mystery) by Joyce Tremel. Have you read this book? Is it on your list to be read? Leave a comment and email for a chance to do just that.







eries: A Brewing Trouble Mystery (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley (December 1, 2015)
Language: English



An all-new mystery series set in a Pittsburgh craft brew pub, featuring a brewmaster with a head for sleuthing.

The Allegheny Brew House is a dream come true for Maxine “Max” O’Hara, who went all the way to Germany for her brewmaster certification, and is now preparing to open her own craft brew pub in a newly revitalized section of Pittsburgh. But before she can start pouring stouts and lagers to thirsty throngs, there’s trouble on tap. Suspicious acts of sabotage culminate in Max finding her assistant brewmaster and chef Kurt Schmidt strangled in one of the vats.

Between rescuing a stray gray tabby she names Hops and considering a handsome ex-hockey player as her new chef, Max doesn’t have a lot of time to solve a murder. But with a homicide detective for a dad, she comes to criminal investigation naturally. And if someone is desperate enough to kill to stop her from opening, Max needs to act fast—before her brand-new brew biz totally tanks...


INCLUDES RECIPES


About the Author:





Joyce Tremel was a police secretary for ten years and more than once envisioned the demise of certain co-workers, but settled on writing as a way to keep herself out of jail. Her flash fiction has appeared in Mysterical-e, and her non-fiction has been published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police magazine. Her debut novel, TO BREW OR NOT TO BREW has been nominated for a 2015 Reviewers’ Choice Award for best amateur sleuth by Romantic Times. The second book in the series TANGLED UP IN BREW, is scheduled for release 10.4.2016.

Joyce is a native Pittsburgher, has two grown sons, and lives in a suburb of the city with her husband and a spoiled cat. When coming up with the idea for this series, she thought her big city with the small town feel would be the perfect setting for Max's brew pub. She hopes "yinz" guys agree! 


Giveaway: Would you like a chance to win To Brew or Not to Brew by Joyce Tremel? Leave a comment and email below and one lucky reader will be chosen on Wednesday. Good Luck!


Sunday, April 17, 2016

Weekly Wrap Up #16

Here is what happened this week: It looks like we are finally getting our Spring weather here. Many days of outside reading to come. Do you like to read out doors?








April 11th-First in Series- Crime and Poetry by Amanda Flower
April 12th- Author Spotlight- Amanda Flower
April 13th- Book Trivia -Larissa Reinhart.
April 14th- Guest Post- Jennifer L. Hart
April 15th- What's New? Irish Stewed by Kylie Logan
April 15th- Blog Tour- Unhappy Medium by Dawn Eastman
April 16th- Blog Tour- For Dead Men Only by Paula Paul.

Coming this week:


April 18th- First in Series- To Brew or Not to Brew by Joyce Tremel
April 19th- Author Spotlight- Joyce Tremel
April 20th- Book Trivia. Kate O'Connell
April 21st- Blog Tour- Meddling with Murder by Ellie Campbell
April 22nd- Blog Tour- Raisin the Dead by Karoline Barrett
April 23rd- Blog Tour- With a Vengeance by Annette Dashofy


Hope to see you there!!

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Blog Tour- For Dead Men Only by Paula Paul

Happy Saturday. I am thrilled to be on this blog tour. Paula Paul is a new-to-me author and I enjoyed her book For Dead Men Only. Welcome Paula, thank you for being here today.








File Size: 1679 KB
Print Length: 195 pages
Publisher: Alibi (April 12, 2016)
Publication Date: April 12, 2016
Sold by: Random House LLC
Language: English



Synopsis

The Temple of the Ninth Daughter sits on a hill at the edge of Newton-upon-Sea, an aura of mystery lingering over its tall, gray silhouette. Villagers whisper about the treasure housed inside, protected by local Freemasons who are bound by clandestine oaths.

Dr. Alexandra Gladstone has no time for such nonsense. Between the patients in her surgery and the rounds she makes with her faithful dog, Zack, her days are busy enough. But Alexandra has no logical explanation when the Freemasons start dying, one by one, with no sign of foul play other than smears of blood on their Masonic aprons. And what to make of reports that a Knight Templar rides through the village before each passing?

After the constable disappears in the midst of the crisis, Alexandra reaches out to her dashing, diligent friend, Nicholas Forsythe, Lord Dunsford, for assistance. Is someone after the treasure, or might a more sinister game be afoot? In order to solve this puzzle, Alexandra must somehow catch a killer who shows no remorse—and leaves no witnesses.



I love historical mysteries and this one is so captivating and brings you into the story right from the start. Fast- paced and action packed you will be so involved with this book.Paula is a new to me author and I will be getting the rest of the books to read. It is brilliantly written and the characters are well developed. Enjoyed every minute of this book.





About The Author


Award-winning novelist Paula Paul was born on her grandparents’ cotton farm near Shallowater, Texas, and graduated from a country high school near Maple, Texas. She earned a BA in journalism and has worked as a reporter for newspapers in both Texas and New Mexico. She’s been the recipient of state and national awards for her work as a journalist as well as a novelist. Her previous novels featuring Dr. Alexandra Gladstone, including Symptoms of Death, have appeared on bookstore and online bestseller lists. She is also the author of the Mystery by Design series, which she wrote as Paula Carter. She lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Author Link:

Webpage – http://www.paulapaul.net/

Friday, April 15, 2016

Blog Tour- An Unhappy Medium by Dawn Eastman

I have loved this series from the start and am happy to be on this tour.  An Unhappy Medium( A Family Fortune mystery) by Dawn Eastman was released on April 5th.







Series: A Family Fortune Mystery (Book 4)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley (April 5, 2016)
Language: English



Psychic Clyde Fortune and her zany family are back in the fourth in the national bestselling series from the author of A Fright to the Death.
Former cop and novice psychic Clyde Fortune finds herself in a race for justice when a Zombie Fun Run turns deadly…

All of Crystal Haven, Michigan, is psyching up to participate in a Zombie Fun Run organized by Clyde’s nephew Seth, but Clyde is fretful about the undead festivities. For one thing, her sister, Grace, has unexpectedly returned to town after fifteen years. For another, Clyde has the nagging feeling that something is about to go wrong…

When one of the zombie runners is found murdered and then Grace disappears, Clyde realizes her grim premonition is dead-on. Now, she and her police detective boyfriend Mac must find a ghoulish murderer before someone points the finger at Grace. And when a tangled web of family secrets and old grudges combines with a mysterious case of stolen diamonds, even someone as quick-witted as Clyde might not be able to outrun a killer…


This is book four in the Family Fortune mystery series and this one is my favorite so far. I loved the excitement this story brings from the first page. The characters have become so strong they make you want to come and stay awhile. And come on a Zombie Run who wouldn't like that. If you have been a fan of this series you will be visiting old friends and if you are just starting this series you will be hooked on the great story and a trip to Michigan is always a fun time. You know there will be a murder to solve as well and how fun is that.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dawn Eastman lived in Michigan for many years, in a house full of animals, unusual people, and laughter. She now lives in Iowa with her family and one extremely bossy small dog. She is the national bestselling author of The Family Fortune Mystery Series, which features psychics, animal communication, quirky characters and murders.

Author Links

Webpage – www.DawnEastman.com
Twitter – @DawnAEastman
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DawnEastmanAuthor
Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6544185.Dawn_Eastman



Giveaway: Would you like to win a copy of  An Unhappy Medium? Leave a comment and email below and one lucky reader will be chosen on Sunday.Good Luck.

What's New? Irish Stewed by Kylie Logan

What's New? Irish Stewed( AN Ethnics Eats Mystery) by Kylie Logan.








Series: An Ethnic Eats Mystery (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley (May 3, 2016)
Language: English



The national bestselling author of the League of Literary Ladies Mysteries introduces an all-new cozy culinary mystery series featuring ethnic eats.


After flopping as a personal chef to a Hollywood movie star, jobless Laurel Inwood finds herself humbled in Hubbard, Ohio, helping her aunt Sophie run her restaurant. Much to Laurel’s dismay, Sophie’s Terminal at the Tracks is not the cozy bistro her aunt would have had her believe—it’s a run-down greasy spoon in an old railroad station. To save the dingy diner, Laurel cooks up a plan to feature alternating ethnic cuisine as specials.

But first there’s the problem of the body in the booth. Slumped over a table with a receipt spike in his back is Jack Lancer—”the Lance of Justice”—an investigative reporter for local TV news. Assisted by the drop-dead gorgeous owner of the neighboring Irish store—who may or may not be a suspect—Laurel sets out to track down a killer who had no reservations about impaling a newshound. But as she turns up the heat, will she end up in the soup herself?


INCLUDES RECIPES


Find all of Kylie Logans books at:

http://www.kylielogan.com/

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Guest Post with Jennifer L. Hart

I am excited to have Jennifer L. Hart visiting with us today. Jennifer is the author of the Laundry Hag series as well as the Damaged Goods Mystery series. Check them out.






The Bowtie Angel Chef’s Guide to Cooking for a Spring Crowd


Spring’s here, and you know what that means. Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day, proms, graduations, cookouts and more. The season is bursting with activity and when people are active they like to eat. Big gatherings means a ton of food, so I thought I’d ask the chefs of the Bowtie Angel to share with us some wisdom for handling spring feasting fever.

Q. What dishes do you think are the best during large spring gatherings?

Andy: I find that it depends on the occasion. People dressing up for prom are less likely to gorge on heavy or sauce covered dishes than on something bite sized. For a prom crowd I like to make appetizers. Kids love their apps! Stuffed mushroom caps, maybe arancini, something light. A barbecue on the other hand, is all about the main courses. My Spring Fling pasta is a big hit and goes well with burgers, chicken and ribs.


Aunt Cecily: They will eat the food I make for them and like it.

Mimi: I always like to make a special event dessert. Flag cake for Memorial Day, large cream filled cupcakes decorated with edible flowers for Mother’s Day, or cannoli made to look like rolled up diplomas for graduations. Deserts are the most creative food!


Q. When cooking for a large crowd, how do you handle special dietary needs or food allergies?

Andy: The first step is to ask if there are any dietary restrictions I need to adhere to. These days you have to expect there will be people who require special diets. I always try to include some simple dishes, five ingredients and list everything on a card next to the dish. Caprese salad is a perfect example. Fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, fresh grape tomatoes and basil infused extra virgin olive oil. Simple, clean and straightforward. Naturally gluten free. The more complicated a dish, the more likely you’ll add something that someone can’t eat.

Aunt Cecily: If God wants him dead by turning my good food to poison in his belly, who am I to stop Him?

Mimi: Asking in advance is the best way. Puddings, Italian Ice and fresh fruit are usually safe bets for most dietary restrictions.


Q. Do you have a favorite spring gathering recipe?

Andy: oh, tons of them! I already mentioned the Spring Fling pasta, which works as a sit down meal as well as a side. Spring means fresh veggies and I love to experiment with different sorts of pasta primavera. Quality and variety is the name of the game.

Aunt Cecily: No. I make the pasta every day.

Mimi: My sweet tooth really kicks in during the spring, so I tend to make lots of cakes. And frosting is a perfect medium to experiment with flowers or other unique designs. Also gelato, there are so many flavors and we have a new ice cream machine at the Bowtie Angle, so I’ll be making some fresh berry sorbet.


Q. Any last tips or tricks for our home chefs to keep in mind?

Andy: Advanced planning is your best bet. There’s nothing more stressful than trying to throw a meal together for thirty on short notice! If you have kids who bring friends along at the last minute, I’d recommend freezing some ready to go dishes that you can just pop in the oven.

Aunt Cecily: Make the pasta, feed the people. The rest will sort itself out.

Mimi: Organize your pantry and refrigerator based on what you make the most. Don’t put a one-time ingredient in with your flour and sugar, it will just get in the way and get shuffled to the back out of sight, where you will forget you have it. I also like to keep a list of what I have and what I’m running low on taped to the pantry door so I never run out of anything essential mid-recipe.



Thanks so much ladies!


Do you find you eat any differently in the spring? One random commenter will receive a Southern Pasta Shop Charm Bracelet.





Jennifer L. Hart knows that surviving as military spouse takes persistence, comfort food and a stellar sense of humor. Her books often focus on people who’ve lived the military lifestyle and zany antics of neurotic heroines who like to eat, drink and have fun. Her works include the Misadventures of the Laundry Hag mystery series, the Damaged Goods mystery series and the Southern Pasta Shop Mysteries.


visit Jenn online at jenniferlhart.com or laundryhag.com

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Book Trivia- Larissa Reinhart

It's time for trivia and today's lovely host is Larissa Reinhart! Thank you so much for visiting today. Good Luck everyone, the winner will be chosen on Saturday.








Thanks so much for having me on your Bookcase, Shelley!

For those who don’t know me, I’m Larissa Reinhart and I write the Cherry Tucker Mystery series for Henery Press. The sixth novel, A COMPOSITION IN MURDER, releases November 15th, and a Cherry Tucker short story in a Halloween mystery anthology is also releasing this fall. The first in the series is PORTRAIT OF A DEAD GUY, which was a finalist for the Daphne du Maurier and The Emily award, and Dixie Kane Memorial winner. I’m also a Georgia Author of the Year finalist for the fourth book, DEATH IN PERSPECTIVE.


I’m from Peachtree City, Georgia, but am currently residing in Nagoya, Japan. It’s my fourth time to live in Japan and we’re having a blast, although we miss Georgia.


Let’s have some fun with a Cherry Tucker quiz. Because I used to teach, I’m going to make it multiple choice. For those of you who don’t know Cherry, it’ll be an easier way for you to play and hopefully to learn about her, too!


I’m offering a Kindle or Nook gift certificate for any in the Cherry Tucker series (including HEARTACHE MOTEL, where there’s a Cherry Tucker novella) to the person within 24 hours of posting who has the correct answers. If there’s more than one, I’ll let line picker choose between them. Good luck!

1. As a portrait artist, Cherry Tucker’s known for her quick sketching, but in her hometown of Halo, Georgia, she’s better known for being a sassy, nosy spitfire. Although she’s from a small town in rural Georgia, she went to art school in _____.

A. Paris
B. Atlanta
C. Savannah
D. New York


2. In PORTRAIT OF A DEAD GUY, the first in the series, she becomes entangled with three men who can be found in most of the other stories. Her sort-of-ex-husband, _____, a drummer; her college ex-flame, _____; and a mysterious newcomer to Halo, ______.

A. Luke, Max, Todd
B. Todd, Luke, Max
C. Luke, Todd, Max
D. Max, Todd, Luke


3. One of the reasons Cherry gets involved in solving mysteries is because

A. Her dad was an ex-cop.
B. Her mother is an ex-con.
C. Her brother is a deputy.
D. Her uncle is sheriff.


4. In the fifth and latest mystery, THE BODY IN THE LANDSCAPE, Cherry finds a body in the woods while landscape painting. She finds herself in that situation when weekending from Halo at the invitation of Max Avtaikin to paint the winner’s portrait at a _______.

A. Hogzilla hunt.
B. Dog show.
C. Turkey shoot.
D. Fox hunt.


5. Shawna Branson has been Cherry’s biggest rival since childhood. Not only is Shawna a wannabe artist, she’s also from the esteemed Branson family whose ancestors have looked down their noses at Cherry’s since Reconstruction. Their Hatfield and McCoy-type social antics heat up when Cherry starts seeing Shawna’s hunky step- cousin, Luke, and when Cherry discovers a secret relationship between ______.

A. Luke and Shawna.
B. Shawna and Cherry’s brother.
C. Cherry’s mother and Shawna’s father.
D. Cherry’s uncle and Shawna’s mother.


6. Cherry’s other antagonist is

A. Tater, the goat.
B. Tater, the hog.
C. Tater, the horse.
D. Tater, the dog.


Cherry’s always struggling to find portrait work in Halo. She’s willing to try any kind of art, just to make money, which has included a funeral portrait (PORTRAIT), festival craft art (STILL LIFE IN BRUNSWICK STEW), a police sketch (HIJACK IN ABSTRACT), and theater scenery (DEATH IN PERSPECTIVE).

In book 6, A COMPOSITION IN DEATH (releasing November 15th), Cherry gets a volunteer gig to teach painting at an independent living home. There she gets involved in a murder mystery when she’s asked to witness the signing of a will by Belvia Brakeman, a ninety-year-old, blind woman, who’s CEO of a family run sweet tea company, _______.



You may need to check my website (www.LarissaReinhart.com) for this one. While you’re there make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get on my subscriber giveaway raffle and get news of the new releases and events!

Sweet As Sin.
Belvia’s Brew.
Brakeman’s Brew.
Meemaw’s Tea.


8. One sentence Essay: never trust a teacher not to include an essay on a multiple choice quiz ;) What’s your favorite Cherry Tucker mystery, or if you haven’t read them, which story looks the most interesting? (Need to see the books? Click here for the Amazon page.)


Thanks so much for playing! You can find my books here on Amazon (Click the follow button

for bargain and release updates) or your favorite place to book shop (just ask).

Be sure to sign up for my newsletter at www.LarissaReinhart.com and if you’re social, find me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook where I post about our life in Japan, or just like my official Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/RisWrites or find me on Goodreads for book news. I also have a street team page on Facebook, the Mystery Minions, where we have more personal interactions and special contests.


I love hearing and interacting with readers. Just click the links. Thanks and I look forward to meeting you! Have fun playing!


Larissa Reinhart
2015 Georgia Author of the Year Finalist Best Mystery
2012 Daphne du Maurier Finalist
The Cherry Tucker Mystery Series (Henery Press)
A Composition in Murder, #6 (November 15, 2016)



Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Author Spotlight- Amanda Flower

Happy Tuesday! Today's featured spotlight is USA Today Bestselling Author Amanda Flower.Amanda writes An Appleseed Creek Mystery series, A Living History Museum Mystery series, and An Andy Boggs Mystery Series and her new series,The Magical Bookshop.She also writes as Isabella Alan with the Amish Quilt Shop Mystery Series.






Amanda Flower, an Agatha-nominated mystery author, started her writing career in elementary school when she read a story she wrote to her sixth grade class and had the class in stitches with her description of being stuck on the top of a Ferris wheel.
She knew at that moment she'd found her calling of making people laugh with her words. Her debut mystery, Maid of Murder, was an Agatha Award Nominee for Best First Novel and her children's mysteries, Andi Unexpected and Andi Under Pressure, were an Agatha Award Nominees for Best Children's/YA Novel. Amanda is a librarian in northeast Ohio. She also writes mysteries as USA Today Bestselling Author Isabella Alan.





Visit her at www.amandaflower.com

Monday, April 11, 2016

First in Series- Crime and Poetry by Amanda Flower

I loved every minute of this week's First in Series. Crime and Poetry ( A Magical Bookshop Mystery) by Amanda Flower was released on April 5th.







Series: A Magical Bookshop Mystery (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: NAL (April 5, 2016)
Language: English



From Amanda Flower —who writes the national bestselling Amish Quilt Shop Mysteries as Isabella Alan —comes the first in the new Magical Bookshop Mystery series.

Rushing home to sit by her ailing grandmother’s bedside, Violet Waverly is shocked to find Grandma Daisy the picture of perfect health. Violet doesn’t need to read between the lines: her grandma wants Violet back home and working in her magical store, Charming Books. It’s where the perfect book tends to fly off the shelf and pick you...

Violet has every intention to hightail it back to Chicago, but then a dead man is discovered clutching a volume of Emily Dickinson’s poems from Grandma Daisy’s shop. The victim is Benedict Raisin, who recently put Grandma Daisy in his will, making her a prime suspect. Now, with the help of a tuxedo cat named Emerson, Violet will have to find a killer to keep Grandma from getting booked for good...





About the Author

Amanda Flower is an Agatha Award-nominated author. She also writes the USA Today bestselling Amish Quilt Shop Mysteries, including Murder, Simply Served and Murder, Simply Stitched under the name Isabella Alan.

Check out Amanda's website:
http://www.amandaflower.com/

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