Showing posts with label Blog Tour. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Blog Tour. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Blog Tour - A Killer Location by Sarah T. Hobart

Happy Wednesday! I am happy to be part of this blog tour. A Killer Location (A Home Sweet Home Mystery) was released on November 22nd.








File Size: 2262 KB
Print Length: 216 pages
Publisher: Alibi (November 22, 2016)
Publication Date: November 22, 2016
Sold by: Random House LLC





Synopsis
As this captivating cozy mystery series featuring real estate agent Sam Turner continues, a dream home turns into a crime scene when murder intrudes on an open house.

Thanks to a few sales and a self-help book on becoming a super-agent, Sam Turner is well on her way to becoming real estate royalty in Arlinda, her eccentric hometown on the Northern California coast. And after settling into her new house with her teenage son, she’s finally a homeowner, too. Sure, things aren’t perfect—for example, her sister still doesn’t know that Sam is dating her ex, police chief Bernie Aguilar—but perfect is boring. And Sam’s life is never boring.

When Sam’s boss, Everett Sweet, assigns her an open house in Arlinda’s most exclusive neighborhood, she brushes up on her super-agent tips, hoping to wow potential buyers. But there’s nothing in the manual about stumbling upon the owner’s dead body halfway through the tour. When suspicion falls on her boss, Sam and her co-workers are suddenly out of work, their real estate licenses suspended. Now, with her job on the line and a mortgage to pay, Sam will need every trick in the book to clear Everett’s name.








About The Author –

Sarah Hobart is a real estate agent and former newspaper reporter in Northern California, where she lives with her husband and two children in a majestic fixer-upper overlooking State Highway 101.


Thursday, November 3, 2016

Blog Tour and Giveaway- Death at First Sight by Lena Gregory

I am excited to be part of this blog tour. Death at First Sight by Lena Gregory is a fun new series with a fresh cast of characters and a page turner story.








Death at First Sight (A Bay Island Psychic Mystery)
NEW SERIES
Berkley (November 1, 2016)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 978-0425282748
E-Book ASIN: B01BK0SQBS




Synopsis

FIRST IN A VISIONARY NEW MYSTERY SERIES.

It doesn’t take a crystal ball to see that something’s not right on Bay Island…

Since she left her psychiatric practice in New York City to open up a psychic shop in her hometown on Bay Island, Cass Donovan has given her fair share of readings to conflicted customers. But what she sees in Ellie Callahan’s future doesn’t bode well.

When Ellie’s mother, Marge, publicly confronts Cass about the reading, the embarrassment makes her want to curl up and die. And when she later stumbles across Marge’s body—and is a suspect in her murder—Cass is suddenly the star of Bay Island’s rumor mill.

Cass is determined to prove her innocence and save Ellie from meeting the fate in her unfortunate vision. But even with the help of her friends Bee and Stephanie, Cass will have to channel some serious sleuthing instincts to find the real killer…





Mystical Musings
By
Cass Donovan

I’m Cass Donovan, and I own Mystical Musings, a psychic shop on Bay Island, a small island between the north and south forks of Long Island, New York. Though Bay Island is booming during the summer months, when tourists flock to the island beaches, climb to the tops of the lighthouses, and meander through the shops along the boardwalk, business tends to slow down come fall and doesn’t start to pick up again until spring. During the winter, the island is downright deserted, except for the locals. That being the case, I can’t only cater to the tourists.

Most of my business involves doing readings, both individual and group. My group readings have become so popular, among locals and tourists, I’ve decided to finish a room upstairs to allow room for more tables. But not everyone on Bay Island is receptive to interacting with the dearly departed, so I also stock a large inventory of crystals, essential oils, and even some small souvenirs.

My best-selling souvenirs, though, are the ones I make myself, and they cost almost nothing to make. They are easy enough that anyone can make them, and yet, sometimes I can’t keep up with the demand. I don’t often reveal my secrets—it certainly wouldn’t help my business for people to realize they could easily create beautiful centerpieces on their own—but I’ll make an exception today.

Mystical Musings sits on one end of the boardwalk. The front of the shop faces the boardwalk, while the back faces the beach, offering a gorgeous view of the bay and the lighthouse from the wide, wrap-around porch. My house is a fairly short walk down the beach from the shop, which is perfect.

I often grab a bucket and walk along the beach from home to the shop. I collect anything I find that catches my interest; beach glass, seashells, small rocks, twigs, beach grass, driftwood, even a length of old fishing net. Once in a while, I make a trip over to Long Island and hit up the antique shops, or even the dollar stores, and pick up glass containers, mason jars, and small candles.

Then I sift through whatever interesting things I found on the beach and sort them into jars. Some jars get candles in the center—of course, I’m careful not to put anything flammable in those. Others get beach grass or twigs sticking out the top. If the jars have no fun decorations on them, I often tie a ribbon or a leather cord around them. I sometimes arrange a small bit of fishing net on the table beneath the jars, set out a few strategically placed pieces of driftwood, and that’s it. You have a beautiful centerpiece at very little cost that takes minutes to make.

I often place them on the tables during my group readings and almost always sell out afterward. If you decide to give it a try, be sure to post pictures. I’d love to see what you come up with!





About the Author:



Lena lives in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island with her husband and three children.

When she was growing up, she spent many lazy afternoons on the beach, in the yard, anywhere she could find to curl up with a good book. She loves reading as much now as she did then, but she now enjoys the added pleasure of creating her own stories.

Author Links:

Website: http://www.lenagregory.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lena.Gregory.Author/?fref=ts
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LenaGregory03
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lenagregoryauth/?etslf=2219&eq=lena%20gregory


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Friday, October 14, 2016

Spotlight- A Killer Closet by Paula Paul

A Killer Closet by Paula Paul was release on October 11th.








File Size: 1552 KB
Print Length: 184 pages
Publisher: Alibi (October 11, 2016)
Publication Date: October 11, 2016
Sold by: Random House LLC
Language: English





Synopsis:

In a fashionably cozy short mystery novel, Paula Paul introduces a tenacious heroine who leaves big-city life behind and returns to picturesque Santa Fe, New Mexico—where murder lands on her doorstep.

Irene Seligman loves the warmth and beauty of her Southwest hometown, but only one thing could make her quit her prestigious job as an assistant district attorney in Manhattan to return there: the guilt applied by her demanding mother, Adelle. After Adelle’s most recent husband dies, leaving her with nothing, Irene decides to take a break from prosecuting criminals to move back to Santa Fe and open an upscale consignment store. With Irene’s determination and her mother’s eye for haute couture, they’re sure to make a killing.

But on the day of the grand opening, Irene discovers the body of one of Adelle’s friends in her storeroom. And although the intrigue causes business to boom, when someone else from Adelle’s social circle is murdered, Irene begins to suspect her mother might be in danger too. Ever the protective daughter, Irene investigates her mother’s friends, suspicious that they’re hiding more than designer clothes in their closets. But as she gets closer to uncovering some real skeletons, Irene might not live to regret coming home again.


This is the first book I read by Paula Paul and I enjoyed it. The characters are fun and the story is fast-paced and keeps you captivated.








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. She’s the author of many mysteries, including the Alexandra Gladstone series and the Mystery by Design series, which she wrote as Paula Carter. She lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Author Link:

Webpage – http://www.paulapaul.net/



Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Blog Tour- Tangled Up in Brew by Joyce Tremel

I am thrilled to be on this blog tour. Joyce Tremel's next book in the Brewing Trouble series, Tangled up in Brew is released today.









Series: A Brewing Trouble Mystery (Book 2)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley (October 4, 2016)
Language: English





Synopsis

Another intoxicating mystery featuring brew pub owner Maxine “Max” O’Hara—from the author of To Brew or Not to Brew.

BEER TODAY, GONE TOMORROW…

Brew pub owner Maxine “Max” O’Hara and her chef/boyfriend, Jake Lambert, are excited to be participating in the Three Rivers Brews and Burgers Festival. Max hopes to win the coveted Golden Stein for best craft beer—but even if she doesn’t, the festival will be great publicity for her Allegheny Brew House.

Or will it? When notoriously nasty food and beverage critic Reginald Mobley is drafted as a last-minute replacement judge, Max dreads a punishing review. Her fears are confirmed when Mobley literally spits out her beer, but things get even worse when the cranky critic drops dead right after trying one of Jake’s burgers. Now an ambitious new police detective is determined to pin Mobley’s murder on Max and Jake, who must pore over the clues to protect their freedom and reputations—and to find the self-appointed judge, jury, and executioner.


Review: Author Joyce Tremel has out done herself with the second book in the Brewing Trouble Mystery series. The Brews and Burger Festival is about to start and Max O'hara and Jake are busy preparing for the event, The Festival brings breweries and chef together to compete for the best and win the grand prize. But when one of the judges is murdered the suspects are many and everyone is on edge. Max and her friends try to find out who the killer is before they take out more of the competition. With twist and turns you will be guessing until the end.




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. She is a native Pittsburgher and lives in a suburb of the city with her husband and a spoiled cat.

Her debut mystery, To Brew Or Not To Brew has been nominated for the 2015 Reviewers’ Choice award for best amateur sleuth by RT Book Reviews. The second book in the series, Tangled Up In Brew is scheduled for release in October 2016.


Author Links

Webpage – http://www.joycetremel.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/JoyceTremel/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/JoyceTremel
GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13746162.Joyce_Tremel



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Sunday, October 2, 2016

Blog Tour- The Book Club Murders by Leslie Nagel

Happy Sunday. I am happy to be part of this blog tour Leslie Nagel's The Book Club Murders was released on September 27th.








File Size: 1741 KB
Print Length: 271 pages
Publisher: Alibi (September 27, 2016)
Publication Date: September 27, 2016
Sold by: Random House LLC
Language: English





Synopsis

In a charming cozy mystery series debut, Leslie Nagel’s irrepressible small-town heroine finds that her fellow mystery book club members may be taking their Agatha Christie a bit too literally—and murder a bit too lightly.

Charley Carpenter has poured heart and soul into her clothing store, Old Hat Vintage Fashions. She’ll do anything to make it a success—even join the stuffy Agathas Book Club in order to cultivate customers among the wealthy elite of Oakwood, Ohio.

Although mixing with the most influential women in town has its advantages, Charley finds the endless gossip a high price to pay. But after two women with close ties to the Agathas are brutally murdered, everyone falls under threat—and suspicion. When key evidence indicates that both murders are the work of the same hand, Charley realizes that the killer has arranged each corpse in perfect imitation of crime scenes from the Club’s murder mystery reading list. She uses her membership in the Club to convince Detective Marcus Trenault to use her as an inside informant. Not that he could stop her anyway.

Intelligent, fearless, and every bit as stubborn as Marc is, Charley soon learns the Agathas aren’t the only ones with secrets to protect. Passions explode as she and Marc must race against time to prevent another murder. And if Charley’s not careful, she may find herself becoming the killer’s next plot twist. 






Leslie Nagel's debut The Book Club murders introduces you to fun new characters and a story line that is filled with plot twists. You will be on the edge of your seat wanting to know what will happen next. I enjoyed this book and look froward to the next one.







About The Author

Leslie Nagel is a writer and teacher of writing at a local community college. Her debut novel, “The Book Club Murders”, is the first in the Oakwood Mystery Series. Leslie lives in the all too real city of Oakwood, Ohio, where murders are rare but great stories lie thick on the ground. After the written word, her passions include her husband, her son and daughter, hiking, tennis and strong black coffee, not necessarily in that order.


Author Links

Webpage – http://www.leslienagel.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/LeslieNagelAuthor/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/@leslie_nagel
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/leslie_nagel/



Saturday, September 3, 2016

Blog tour and giveaway- A Story to Kill by Lynn Cahoon

I love having today's author stop by my blog. Lynn Cahoon has a brand new series out. A Story to Kill was released on August 30th. Lynn Cahoon always brings the fun and great stories that you will want to add to your list. Isn't this a great cover? Don't miss out on this five star read.








Series: A Cat Latimer Mystery (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Kensington (August 30, 2016)
Language: English





Synopsis

Former English professor Cat Latimer is back in Colorado, hosting writers’ retreats in the big blue Victorian she’s inherited, much to her surprise, from none other than her carousing ex-husband! Now it’s an authors’ getaway—but Cat won’t let anyone get away with murder… The bed-and-breakfast is open for business, and bestselling author Tom Cook is among its first guests. Cat doesn’t know why he came all the way from New York, but she’s glad to have him among the quirkier—and far less famous—attendees.

Cat’s high school sweetheart Seth, who’s fixing up the weathered home, brings on mixed emotions for Cat…some of them a little overpowering. But it’s her uncle, the local police chief, whom she’ll call for help when there’s a surprise ending for Tom Cook in his cozy guest room. Will a killer have the last word on the new life Cat has barely begun?



Lynn Cahoon has a brand new series with a fresh cast of characters and a story line so good you won't be able to stop reading. I enjoyed it from the start and the plot twist kept me captivated and guessing till the end. You will be hooked on this new read.



About the author



New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, Lynn Cahoon is an Idaho native. If you’d visit the town where she grew up, you’d understand why her mysteries and romance novels focus around the depth and experience of small town life. Currently, she’s living in a small historic town on the banks of the Mississippi river where her imagination tends to wander. She lives with her husband and two fur babies.


Author Links

Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5857424.Lynn_Cahoon
Twitter – https://twitter.com/LynnCahoon
Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/LynnCahoonAuthor
Website – http://lynncahoon.com/
Amazon Author Page – http://www.amazon.com/Lynn-Cahoon/e/B0082PWOAO/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1



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Friday, August 19, 2016

Blog Tour- Murder at the Mansion by Janet Finsilver

Happy Friday! I am delighted to be part of this blog tour. Murder at the Mansion by Janet Finsilver was released on June 7th. It was a fun read.







Paperback: 190 pages
Publisher: Lyrical Underground (June 7, 2016)
Language: English



Fortunes, fineries, and foul play . . .

It’s whale-watching season in Redwood Cove, and B&B manager Kelly Jackson’s battening down the hatches for the tourist rush at Redwood Heights—a Victorian-style estate owned by her boss. And due to recent jewelry thefts, her duties include keeping track of the many dust-covered artifacts spread throughout the property. But when Kelly finds Sylvia Porter’s lifeless body, menial tasks don’t seem so terrible. Enlisting the help of a ragtag group of brainy retirees, aka the “Silver Sentinels,” Kelly’s on the hunt for clues hidden behind the mansion’s glamorous façade. . .and for a killer who may want to make history of her next!


This is the second book in the series and it keeps getting better. The author paints a picture so well done you get pulled in from the first page. The cast of characters have grown and the story is a fun read. You will be hooked on this series.



About the Author:





Janet Finsilver is the USA TODAY best-selling author of the Kelly Jackson mystery series. She worked in education for many years as a teacher, a program administrator, and a workshop presenter. Janet majored in English and earned a Master’s Degree in Education. She loves animals and has two dogs–Kylie and Ellie. Janet has ridden western style since she was a child and was a member of the National Ski Patrol. One of the highlights of her life was touching whales in the San Ignacio Lagoon. MURDER AT REDWOOD COVE, her debut mystery, was released on October 13, 2015. Her second book, MURDER AT THE MANSION, was released on June 7, 2016.


Author Links
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/janetfinsilverauthor/?fref=ts
Twitter – https://twitter.com/JanetFinsilver
Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/janetfinsilver/
Web – http://janetfinsilver.com/



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Sunday, August 7, 2016

Blog Tour - Silk Stalkings by Diane Vallere

I am excited to be part of Diane Vallere's blog tour. Her newest book in the Material Witness series is out. Silk Stalkings released on August 2nd and if this isn't on your list it should be.








Series: A Material Witness Mystery (Book 3)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley (August 2, 2016)
Language: English



Fabric shop owner Polyester Monroe can get tangled up in textiles, but it’s murder that really throws her for a loop in the latest mystery from the national bestselling author of Crushed Velvet.

The time has come for San Ladrón, California’s annual Miss Tangorli beauty pageant, and Poly has agreed to use Material Girl’s inventory of shimmery silks to create embellished gowns fit for a crown. But when millionaire Harvey Halliwell—the man who revived the city’s citrus trade with his imported tangorli tree—is found dead days before the pageant contestants are announced, something sour takes over the town.

To make matters worse, her friend, mechanic Charlie Brooks, is soon caught up in the crime, having been seen in the company of the case’s prime suspect. Now Poly’s on a mission to squeeze out the truth. But as she searches for a pattern, the killer seems intent on cutting up the evidence…



Silk Stalkings is the third in the series and it keeps getting better. With fun characters and a captivating story line, this book brings twist and turns along the way and a murder that will have you guessing until the very end. Polyester Monroe and her friends are back, read on to see if they solve the murder and get the pageant underway before it is too late.



About the Author




I’m a former fashion buyer turned mystery writer, trading fashion accessories for accessories to murder. I was bit by the mystery bug as a kid reading Trixie Belden, Connie Blair, and The Three Investigators. Now I’m writing three series: the Style & Error Mysteries, the Mad for Mod Mysteries, Material Witness Mysteries, and the new Costume Shop Cozy Mysteries!

The Material Witness mysteries feature Polyester Monroe, who inherits the fabric shop where she was born. Books include SUEDE TO REST and CRUSHED VELVET . The third, SILK STALKINGS, will be out in August 2016.

The Style & Error Series features former fashion buyer turned amateur sleuth Samantha Kidd. Books in that series include DESIGNER DIRTY LAUNDRY ; BUYER, BEWARE ; THE BRIM REAPER ; and SOME LIKE IT HAUTE . (A short story, “Just Kidding ,” tells the story of how Samantha first met shoe designer Nick Taylor). Book 5, GRAND THEFT RETRO, will be out in 2016.

The Madison Night Mysteries feature a modern day interior decorator who specializes in midcentury design (studying Doris Day movies to get the look right). Books are PILLOW STALK ,THAT TOUCH OF INK , and WITH VICS YOU GET EGGROLL . A prequel novella, “Midnight Ice,” can be found in OTHER PEOPLE’S BAGGAGE .

The new Costume Shop Cozy Mysteries feature former magician’s assistant Margo Tamblyn who has come home to run her family’s costume chop. A Disguise to Die For was released February 2, 2016 and Masking for Trouble will be released October 4.



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Saturday, August 6, 2016

Blog Tour- Cracked to Death by Cheryl Hollon

It is a great start to the weekend when Cheryl Hollon is visiting. Her new book Cracked to Death released on June 28th. This is book three in the Webb's Glass Shop Mystery Series.








Series: A Webb's Glass Shop Mystery (Book 3)
Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Kensington (June 28, 2016)
Language: English



When a treasure hunt leads to deadly plunder, it’s up to glass shop owner Savannah Webb and her trusty investigative posse to map out the true motives of a killer . . .

It’s the dog days of summer in St. Petersburg, Florida, and Webb’s Glass Shop proprietor Savannah Webb has an eco-friendly plan to help locals escape the heat–a recyclable bottle-crafting workshop taught by reticent store manager Amanda Blake. Turns out, the class is a bigger smash than expected, thanks in part to a pair of staggeringly old bottles brought in by snorkeler Martin Lane.

Linked to a storied pirate shipwreck, the relics definitely pique Savannah’s interest. But intrigue turns to shock when Martin’s lifeless body washes ashore the next morning, another glass artifact tucked in his dive bag. With cell phone records connecting Amanda to the drowning, Savannah must voyage through unchartered territory to exonerate her colleague and capture the twisted criminal behind Martin’s death . . .


Cheryl Hollon once again brings a novel so fun and entertaining that you get pulled in from the start. The characters are well developed and the story keeps on getting better. With a few twists along the way you will enjoy this book as much as I have. This is a fantastic series and you also get to learn a lot about glass.





ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Cheryl Hollon now writes full-time after she left an engineering career of designing and building military flight simulators in amazing countries such as England, Wales, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, and India. Fulfilling the dream of a lifetime, she combines her love of writing with a passion for creating glass art. In the small glass studio behind her house in St. Petersburg, Florida, Cheryl and her husband design, create, and produce fused glass, stained glass, and painted glass artworks. Visit her online at http://cherylhollon.com, on Facebook or on Twitter @CherylHollon.


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Friday, July 22, 2016

Blog tour and giveaway- Address to Die for by Mary Feliz

I am excited to be part of this blog tour. Mary Feliz is here today with her brand new book series. Address to Die For was released on July 19th.







Paperback: 250 pages
Publisher: Lyrical Underground (July 19, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1601836643



For professional organizer Maggie McDonald, moving her family into a new home should be the perfect organizational challenge. But murder was definitely not on the to-do list . . .

Maggie McDonald has a penchant for order that isn’t confined to her clients’ closets, kitchens, and sock drawers. As she lays out her plan to transfer her family to the hundred-year-old house her husband, Max, has inherited in the hills above Silicon Valley, she has every expectation for their new life to fall neatly into place. But as the family bounces up the driveway of their new home, she’s shocked to discover the house’s dilapidated condition. When her husband finds the caretaker face-down in their new basement, it’s the detectives who end up moving in. What a mess! While the investigation unravels and the family camps out in a barn, a killer remains at large—exactly the sort of loose end Maggie can’t help but clean up . . .


Address to Die for is an engaging debut. Right from the start you get drawn in to the story and moving day. With fresh new characters and a strong story, you won't be able to put this one down. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next one.






About The Author

Mary Feliz has lived in five states and two countries but calls Silicon Valley home. Traveling to other areas of the United States, she’s frequently reminded that what seems normal in the high-tech heartland can seem decidedly odd to the rest of the country. A big fan of irony, serendipity, diversity, and quirky intelligence tempered with gentle humor, Mary strives to bring these elements into her writing, although her characters tend to take these elements to a whole new level. She’s a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and National Association of Professional Organizers. Mary is a Smith College graduate with a degree in Sociology. She lives in Northern California with her husband, near the homes of their two adult offspring.

Visit Mary online at MaryFeliz.com, or follow her on Twitter @MaryFelizAuthor.



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Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Blog Tour and giveaway- Something's Knot Kosher by Mary Marks

Happy Wednesday! I am thrilled to have Mary Marks here with is today. Her newest book in the Quilting Mystery Series, Something's Knot Kosher was released on June 28th.








Series: A Quilting Mystery (Book 4)
Mass Market Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Kensington; Reissue edition (June 28, 2016)
Language: English



Funerals can be patchy affairs for Martha Rose and her close-knit circle of friends–especially in the case of a missing body. . .

When Birdie Watson’s husband Russell is killed during a bank robbery, Martha just wants to support her grieving friend. But en route to the burial plot in Oregon, Martha makes a harrowing discovery about the casket’s contents–instead of Russell, she finds an unidentified man. Now Martha and her quilting klatch can’t rest in peace until they unspool the truth behind the macabre mix up. . .


This is a fun series and the author keeps you interested and captivated by the story line. Great characters, fun with a touch of humor that makes you want more. I enjoy this series and look forward to what is in store next.






About the Author

Born and raised in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area, Mary Marks earned a B.A. in Anthropology from UCLA and an M.A. in Public Administration from the American Jewish University in Los Angeles. In 2004 she enrolled in the UCLA Extension Writers Program. Her first novel, Forget Me Knot, was a finalist in a national writing competition in 2011. She is currently a reviewer of cozy mysteries for The New York Journal of Books at www.nyjournalofbooks.com.

Readers can visit her at www.marymarksmysteries.com and https://www.facebook.com/mmarks2013


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Tuesday, July 12, 2016

Blog Tour- Read to Death by Terrie Farley Moran

I'm excited to have Terrie Farley Moran visiting today, Her newest book in the Read Em and Eat Mystery Series, Read to Death was released on July 5th. If you haven't read this series yet, I highly recommend you add it to your list.








Series: Read Em and Eat Mystery (Book 3)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley (July 5, 2016)
Language: English



The national bestselling author of Caught Read-Handed revisits Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where the proprietors of a local bookstore café occasionally take a stab at solving murder…

At their seaside Read ‘Em and Eat bookstore café, Sassy Cabot and Bridgy Mayfield offer fresh scones, great books, and excellent detective work…

With their book club season wrapping up with The Florida Life of Thomas Edison, Sassy and Bridgy decide to take their group on a day trip to the beautiful Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Hiring driver Oscar Frieland, who’s known for his colorful stories and love of the café’s Robert Frost fruit tartlets, the bibliophiles set off for a day of sunshine and history.

After a lovely excursion, the club returns to the café for lunch and a book discussion, but the group falls silent after Oscar is found dead in his van. The sheriff’s deputies have some questions of their own for the group, and if the ladies don’t find some answers soon, the next book they read might be from a prison library.


Terrie Moran has done it again with Read to Death. With a delightful cast of characters that bring the humor and fun to the story. The author pulls you in right at the start and holds you captive until the end where the murder is solved and things get back to normal in the town. I enjoyed this book and looking forward to what is in store next. A Fantastic and brilliant read.






About This Author
Short-listed twice for The Best American Mystery Stories, Terrie Farley Moran is delighted to introduce mystery fans to the Read ’Em and Eat café and bookstore, which debuted with Well Read, Then Dead. The only thing Terrie enjoys more than wrangling mystery plots into submission is playing games and reading stories with any or all of her grandchildren.

Author Links:
Webpage – http://terriefarleymoran.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terrie.moran.9
Blog: www.womenofmystery.net
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/23186092-terrie-moran
Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/1terriemoran/


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Thursday, June 23, 2016

Blog tour and Giveaway - Come Bitter Poison by Monica Knightley

I am excited to be part of this blog tour. Come Bitter Poison (The Stratford Upon Avondale Mysteries) by Monica Knightley. One lucky reader will receive an e-copy of this book. Leave a comment and email below for the chance to win.








File Size: 1920 KB
Print Length: 177 pages
Publisher: Monica Knightley (April 8, 2016)
Publication Date: April 8, 2016
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC



Synopsis
Sexy film star. Long-held secrets. Murder by poison.
When international stage and film star Miles Elliot comes to Stratford Upon Avondale to play Macbeth, Maggie O’Flynn is thrilled. He’s been her actor crush for years. But when Miles ends up at the center of a murder investigation Maggie finds herself slipping back into the role of amateur sleuth. Before long many of her friends become suspects in not just one murder, but two. Maggie must discover who’s poisoning people associated with the Shakespeare Festival before one of her friends gets slapped with a murder charge. And she must do so while dodging paparazzi that are stalking her due to a supposed love affair she’s having with Miles Elliot.

With a bit of Shakespeare, copious amounts of tea, and a faux-English setting to rival anything the real England has to offer, COME, BITTER POISON is the second book in THE STRATFORD UPON AVONDALE mystery series. Though part of a series, COME, BITTER POISON can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Lovers of cozy mysteries will find a cozy home in Stratford Upon Avondale.



Book two starts off strong and keeps moving to the end. The characters are delight fun and well developed. With a great story line this whodunit will not disappoint, You will be captivated until the end.



Guest Post:
Hi! I’m Maggie O’Flynn, ex-nun-in-training, current tea room owner and steamy romance writer. I recently moved to this charming little village, Stratford Upon Avondale, which is renowned for its Shakespeare Festival. The place looks like it was lifted lock, stock, and barrel straight out of Tudor or maybe Victorian England, despite the 5,000 miles and several hundred years that separate the two places. I’ll admit I was running away from my past when I landed here but as it turns out it was a good choice.

A good choice for a lot of reasons. Warm and welcoming inhabitants, new dear friends, a kind, considerate, intelligent almost-boyfriend, and a couple of murders. No, I’m not sick or into weird stuff, but I’ve discovered over the past few months that I have an aptitude for solving murders. Who would have thought? Certainly not the local homicide detective. No love lost there.

When I moved here I assumed I’d be seeing my share of murder and treachery, but I figured it would be on the stages of the festival. Sadly, there are people, even here in this little piece of heaven, that find themselves feeling such overwhelming emotions they end up committing the worst of all crimes to quell those emotions. Okay, that was the former Sister Margaret Rose O’Flynn speaking, but it is a truth. Perhaps there is something about my nun-in-training past that lends itself to my ability to uncover murderers. Or perhaps it’s my inability to keep my nose out of other people’s business. That’s what Sister Mary Josephine would say, and did say on many occasions.

But if Sister Mary Josephine thought I was nosey, she would have had apoplexy if she’d met Gina Mattucci. Gina is my best friend and the Watson to my Sherlock. She is a five-foot-two-inch spitfire whose loud, gravelly voice usually announces her presence long before she enters a room. From New Jersey and proud of it, she’s brash and carries a grudge that the West Coast has never heard of some monstrosity called ‘Disco Fries.’ Google it. They’re hideous.

One little added bonus of moving here has been the inspiration this romance writer has found here. There is no dearth of gorgeous men in Stratford. It is a theater town, after all. And word is that my long-time actor crush is about to arrive in town to play Macbeth. Tall, handsome, British—Miles Elliot is many a woman’s dream. Something tells me he may inspire some steamy scenes in my next book.

So Stratford Upon Avondale is home now. I no longer feel like I was running away from my life when I decided to come here, but instead I was running to the life I was supposed to live. Now if I can just convince Nate Larimer, the aforementioned ‘almost-boyfriend’ that I’m not a nun and that he doesn’t need to be intimidated by my steamy romance writing, life here would be perfect.

Time to serve some tea! Cheers!




About The Author –
Monica Knightley began creating compelling characters and stories at the age of three, when she had a plethora of imaginary friends, all with complete backstories. Today any characters that come knocking on the door of her imagination find themselves in one of her mysteries, young adult novels, or paranormal romances.

When not fueling her reading addiction or writing her next book, Monica loves to travel with her husband—especially to England. A bit of England seems to make its way into most of her books. Must haves include a perfectly steeped cup of tea, and a good, bold red wine. She lives in Portland, Oregon where the frequent rainy weather is perfect for curling up with a good book and a cup of tea.

Author Links: Website: http://www.monicaknightley.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monicaknightleyauthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/monicaknightley


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Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Blog Tour- Fixin to Die by Tonya Kappes

I love when Tonya Kappes visits and she is here today with a brand new book series. Fixin to Die (A Kenni Lowry Mystery) was released on June 14th. Want to win an e-copy of this book? Tell us what your favorite southern food is and leave your email to be entered and one lucky reader will be chosen.






Series: A Kenni Lowry Mystery
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Henery Press (June 14, 2016)
Language: English



Synopsis

Sheriff Kenni Lowry likes to think the zero crime rate in her small town in Kentucky is due to her being sheriff, but quickly discovers her grandfather’s ghost, who happened to be the town’s retired sheriff, has been scaring off any would be crime. Poppa has come back from the great beyond to be Kenni’s deputy after the beloved town doctor is found murdered.

Ghost or no ghost, time is of the essence. After all, re-election isn’t far away and Kenni doesn’t want to look for a new job anytime soon.


Tonya Kappes has brought southern charm, mouth-watering food and a fresh new cast of characters that keep you ready through the night. Fixin to Die will whisk you away to Cottonwood Kentucky where you will get wrapped up in the story. With several plot twist that will have you guessing until the end. I look forward to the next visit to Cottonwood.



There is just something about going to a diner in a small town. . .

Kenni Lowry is the small town sheriff in Fixin’ To Die. There is a fair amount of time spent in the sheriff’s office, only the office isn’t in a building, it’s in the back of Cowboy’s Catfish diner. Some of y’all might scratch your head because that seems so strange. . .but not to me!

I grew up in a small rural Kentucky town. It’s one of those thing when someone asks me where I’m from, I’m going to say the county name instead of the city. That’s just the way a small town rolls. That is just ONE of the things that I loved about growing up in a small town in the south.

In most small towns there is that one diner, the one greasy spoon that no matter what time of day you go, there is a line and the counter stools are filled with the same local, little old men in their John Deere hats with a cup of coffee in their hand.
When you go to open the door, you have to give the bottom corner a little tap with the toe of your shoe because it gets a little stuck every once in a while and the above the door dings as soon as you fully open it, our hearts swell with joy. Then our stomach rumbles as the smell of homemade biscuits, sausage gravy, and bacon grease swirl and curl around our nose with strong coffee chasing shortly after. Our eyes scan the top of the full diner just so we can find a couple available seats. After we find that seat, our usual waitress, the only waitress, comes over and fills the foggy plastic glass with the chip in the rim with water and a pot of coffee dangling from her hand. You don’t need a menu. You know what they serve at your diner as if it were tattooed on your brain.

And just thinking about that fried egg has your mouth watering. . .

Awe. . .wasn’t that a great step back into a wonderful memory? What about your memories? Do at least half of them revolve around food?

Food is such a wonderful way to gather people. It is magical really. Food creates community, builds relationships, and fills our souls. Doesn’t this sound exactly how a novel should feed your mind?

I think so too! In every single novel, mostly all in series, I’ve written (twenty-six published), I make the diner and settings of my small, southern towns just as much a character as my heroine and hero. It’s a comfort to the reader to open a novel in a series and know what it feels like to flip the first page and step back into the diner they have grown to love because of all the warm and fuzzy they get from visiting.





About the Author

For years, USA Today bestselling author Tonya Kappes has been self-publishing her numerous mystery and romance titles with unprecedented success. She is famous not only for her hilarious plotlines and quirky characters, but her tremendous marketing efforts that have earned her thousands of followers and a devoted street team of fans. Be sure to check out Tonya’s website for upcoming events and news and to sign up for her newsletter! Tonyakappes.com

Monday, June 13, 2016

Blog Tour and giveaway- Rogues and Rascals by Amy Metz

Happy Monday! It's time for another fun blog tour with Amy Metz. Her newest book in the Goose Pimple Junction series was released on May 5th. Rogues and Rascals in Goose Pimple Junction is this 4th book.








Series: Goose Pimple Junction Mysteries
Paperback: 244 pages
Publisher: Blue Publications; 1 edition (May 5, 2016)
Language: English



Synopsis
Like any good Southern belle, Caledonia Culpepper was raised by her mama to be gracious, charming, witty, and above all, a devoted mother and loving wife, so she’s baffled when her marriage falls apart.

Wynona Baxter is a master of disguise but is often a ditzy airhead. A hit woman wannabe, when she’s hired for her first job in Goose Pimple Junction and things don’t go as planned, she’s forced to resort to Plan B. She’ll also need Plan C and D.

Crooked lawyers, restless husbands, a teenaged hoodlum – it seems there are rogues and rascals everywhere you look in Goose Pimple Junction.

When Caledonia and Wynona’s paths cross, they prove there isn’t a rogue or a rascal who can keep a good woman down. Mama always said there would be days like this . . .


Filled with southern charm and witty humor the newest installment of the Goose Pimple Junction series Rogues and Rascals will take you back for a fun-filled visit with a side of murder. You will be swept away with the story. The characters are so well developed you will feel like you are there with them. I enjoyed this book from the first page, fast-paced and fun you won't want to put it down.


About the Author:




Amy Metz is the author of the Goose Pimple Junction mystery series. She is a former first grade teacher and the mother of two sons. When not actively engaged in writing, enjoying her family, or surfing Facebook or Pinterest, Amy can usually be found with a mixing spoon, camera, or book in one hand and a glass of sweet tea in the other. Amy lives in Louisville, Kentucky.

Author Links

Website: http://authoramymetz.com
Blog: http://abluemillionbooks.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorAmyMetz
Twitter: https://twitter.com/authoramymetz
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AmyMetz
Amazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/Amy-Metz/e/B008NA07X4/


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Sunday, June 12, 2016

Blog Tour and giveaway - The Calamity Cafe by Gayle Leeson

I am delighted to be part of Gayle Leeson's ( A.K.A. Gayle Trent) blog tour. She has a brand new series out called The Calamity Cafe (A Down South Cafe Mystery) that you will not want to miss.








Series: A Down South Café Mystery (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: NAL (June 7, 2016)
Language: English


First in a new cozy mystery series featuring Southern cooking that is to die for.

Aspiring chef and small-town Virginia native Amy Flowers is ready to open her own café offering old-fashioned Southern food. But her dream may go up in smoke when someone kills the competition…

Tired of waiting tables at Lou’s Joint, Amy Flowers doesn’t just quit—she offers to buy the place from her bully of a boss, so she can finally open the café of her dreams. Amy can’t wait to serve the kind of Southern, down-home treats and dishes that her grandmother always loved to the kooky cast of regulars at the restaurant. She knows her comfort food will be the talk of the sweet, small town of Winter Garden, Virginia.

At first Lou Lou refuses to sell, but when she seems ready to make a deal, she tells Amy to come see her. Showing up at the eatery ready to negotiate, Amy is shocked to find her former employer murdered. As the prime suspect, Amy will have to clear her name by serving up the real killer—and with Lou Lou’s stack of enemies, that’s a tall order.

Includes delicious Southern recipes


Filled with southern charm and mouth-watering food you, you will be hooked from the start. A delightful cast of characters and a murder that will have you guessing until the end. The story line is so well written you will be deeply involved in the book. Delectable and enjoyable.



About The Author –




Gayle Leeson is a pseudonym for Gayle Trent. I also write as Amanda Lee. As Gayle Trent, I write the Daphne Martin Cake Mystery series and the Myrtle Crumb Mystery series. As Amanda Lee, I write the Embroidery Mystery series. I live in Virginia with my family, which includes her own “Angus” who is not an Irish wolfhound but a Great Pyrenees who provides plenty of inspiration for the character of Mr. O’Ruff. I’m having a blast writing this new series!

Authors Links:
Webpage – http://www.gayleleeson.com
Gayle Trent Webpage – http://www.gayletrent.com
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/GayleTrentandAmandaLee/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/GayleTrent
GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/426208.Gayle_Trent


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Saturday, June 11, 2016

Blog Tour and Giveaway- Tea Cups and Carnage by Lynn Cahoon

I am excited to be part of Lynn Cahoon's blog tour. Her newest book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series Tea Cups and Carnage was released on June 7th.








Tea Cups and Carnage (A Tourist Trap Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
7th in Series
Lyrical Underground (June 7, 2016)



Synopsis:

The kettle’s about to boil over . . .

The quaint coastal town of South Cove, California, is all abuzz about the opening of a new specialty shop, Tea Hee. But as Coffee, Books, and More owner Jill Gardner is about to find out, there’s nothing cozy about murder . . .

Shop owner Kathi Corbin says she came to South Cove to get away from her estranged family. But is she telling the truth? And did a sinister someone from her past follow her to South Cove? When a woman claiming to be Kathi’s sister starts making waves and a dead body is found in a local motel, Jill must step in to clear Kathi’s name—without getting herself in hot water.


This is book seven in the series and I have been a fan from the start. Fast-paced, action packed story with plot twist that keep you captivated. You will be pulled in from the first page and wanting more at the end. I enjoyed this one and look forward to what will happen next.








ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, Lynn Cahoon is an Idaho native. If you’d visit the town where she grew up, you’d understand why her mysteries and romance novels focus around the depth and experience of small town life. Currently, she’s living in a small historic town on the banks of the Mississippi river where her imagination tends to wander. She lives with her husband and two fur babies.

Author Links

Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5857424.Lynn_Cahoon
Twitter – https://twitter.com/LynnCahoon
Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/LynnCahoonAuthor
Website – http://lynncahoon.com/
Amazon Author Page – http://www.amazon.com/Lynn-Cahoon/e/B0082PWOAO/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1



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Thursday, June 9, 2016

Blog Tour and Giveaway- A Golden Cage by Shelley Freydont

I am thrilled to be part of Shelley Freydont's blog tour. Her newest book in the Newport Gilded Age series, A Golden Cage was released on June 7th.







Series: NEWPORT GILDED AGE
Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Berkley (June 7, 2016)
Language: English




Synopsis:

The author of A Gilded Grave returns to Newport, Rhode Island, at the close of the nineteenth century, where headstrong heiress Deanna Randolph must solve another murder among the social elite.

With her mother in Europe, Deanna is staying with the Ballard family, who agree to chaperone her through the summer season and guide her toward an advantageous marriage proposal—or so her mother hopes. Relishing her new freedom, Deanna is more interested in buying one of the fashionable new bathing costumes, joining a ladies’ bicycling club, and befriending an actress named Amabelle Deeks, all of which would scandalize her mother.

Far more scandalous is the discovery of a young man bludgeoned to death on the conservatory floor at Bonheur, the Ballards’ sumptuous “cottage.” Deanna recognizes him as an actor who performed at the birthday fete for a prominent judge the night before. But why was he at Bonheur? And where is Amabelle?

Concerned her new friend may be in danger—or worse—Deanna enlists the help of her intrepid maid, Elspeth, and her former beau, Joe Ballard, to find Amabelle before the villain of this drama demands an encore.


This was a great book to read. I love the historical era and the cast of characters are becoming so well developed you feel like you know them even more.The story takes place in the nineteenth century where Deanna wants to be more her own woman. getting in to fashion and joining clubs is the life she wants. What she gets instead is a murder to help solve. It pulls you in from the first page and keeps you captivated until the very end. Those who love history and the Victorian Era will want to add this series to there list.






About the Author:

Shelley Freydont is the author of the Liv Montgomery, Celebration Bay Festival Mysteries, (Silent Knife, Trick or Deceit),the Katie McDonald Sudoku Mysteries and the Lindy Haggerty dance company mystery series. Her Newport Gilded Age Mystery seires began in June 2015 with A Gilded Grave, followed in June 2016 with A Golden Cage.

Shelley loves puzzles of all kinds and when not writing or reading mysteries, she’s most likely working on a jigsaw, Sudoku, or crossword.

As Shelley Noble, she’s the author of the women’s fiction novels, Beach Colors, Stargazey Point, and Breakwater Bay as well as several novellas.

She lives at New Jersey Shore and loves to hear from readers. www.shelleyfreydont.com www.facebook.com/ShelleyFreydont

Author Links

www.shelleyfreydont.com
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ShelleyFreydont
Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Shelley-Freydont/e/B001HCUVP4


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Friday, June 3, 2016

Blog tour and giveaway-Eclair and Present Danger by Laura Bradford

I am so thrilled to have Laura Bradford here with her brand new series Eclair and Present Danger( An Emergency Dessert Squad Series).Releasing on June 7th, you will want to add this one to your list of read.








Series: An Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley (June 7, 2016)
Language: English



Synopsis

The first book in the delicious new Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series from national bestselling author Laura Bradford.

With her rent rising faster than her pie crust, bakery owner Winnie Johnson had hoped to be rescued by an inheritance from her wealthy friend and neighbor Gertrude Redenbacher. Instead all she inherits is the widow’s hostile hissing tabby, Lovey, and a vintage ambulance, restored by Gertrude’s late husband. As her dream crumbles, Winnie makes her final delivery—a peach pie to an elderly widower. But she finds Bart Wagner lying on his kitchen floor, smothered by a pillow.

To comfort her frightened and grieving neighbors, Winnie comes to the rescue with her baked goods—and an idea is born: dessert delivery via her ambulance and a new business called the Emergency Dessert Squad. When she’s not speeding to the scenes of dessert emergencies, Winnie is also racing to track down Bart’s killer—before she needs to call a real ambulance for the next victim…

My review:

In Eclair and Present Danger by Laura Bradford, she dishes up a fun new mystery with a feisty cast of characters. Filled with humor and charm. You will want this to be on your reading list. It is a fun read that will keep you captivated and reading until the very end.


Keep Your Hands Inside The Car At All Times
By Winnie Johnson
(of the Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries by Laura Bradford)


I used to love roller coasters—I loved the hills, the dips, the sharp turns…all of it. But now that my life has become one, I’m no longer such a fan.

Take for instance, my last twenty four hours or so…

One minute, I’m sitting across from my late neighbor’s attorney, waiting to see if the bequest Gertie left me will be enough to keep my lifelong dream (aka my bakery, Delectable Delights) open despite my landlord’s sudden need to raise my rent to an amount I can’t possibly pay. And the next I’m being handed a cat named Lovey (who hisses every time she looks at me) and keys to the vintage ambulance Gertie’s late husband was restoring prior to his own death.

Now don’t get me wrong, I’m touched that Gertie thought so highly of me to leave me her two favorite possessions, but neither of them are capable of keeping Delectable Delights’ open.

Poof! My lifelong dream is gone…done…o-v-e-r. And there’s absolutely nothing I can do except cry.

But before I can do that, I have to make good on a promise I made to another friend, the late Ethel Wagner. You see, I promised Ethel that I would make a peach pie for her husband each week. It was her way of letting Bart know that she loved him even if she was no longer here to tell him that with words.

So I put a temporary hold on my tears and threw myself into the one thing that makes me feel whole—baking. I scooped, I measured, I stirred, I patted, I pinched, I cut, and I watched the numbers on my oven timer tick down until Bart’s peach pie was exactly the way he liked. When it was done, I carried it across the street and up to Bart’s door just as I have every week since Ethel’s passing. Only this time, despite his car being in the driveway, he didn’t come to the door when I knocked. He didn’t answer when I poked my head inside and called his name, either.

That’s when I went inside and found him—dead. Or, in the interest of full disclosure, murdered. Awful, I know.

Yet somehow, amid the tears (and therapeutic baking session) that followed, I came up with a way I might be able to…um…stay in business. And it’s pretty darn creative if I must say so my—
Whoa. Where do you think you’re going?
This ride isn’t over. Not even close. I still have a business to launch and a killer to catch.


Coming, June 7th!!!

The first book in the delicious new Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series from national bestselling author Laura Bradford.

With her rent rising faster than her pie crust, bakery owner Winnie Johnson had hoped to be rescued by an inheritance from her wealthy friend and neighbor Gertrude Redenbacher. Instead all she inherits is the widow’s hostile hissing tabby, Lovey, and a vintage ambulance, restored by Gertrude’s late husband. As her dream crumbles, Winnie makes her final delivery—a peach pie to an elderly widower. But she finds Bart Wagner lying on his kitchen floor, smothered by a pillow.

To comfort her frightened and grieving neighbors, Winnie comes to the rescue with her baked goods—and an idea is born: dessert delivery via her ambulance and a new business called the Emergency Dessert Squad. When she’s not speeding to the scenes of dessert emergencies, Winnie is also racing to track down Bart’s killer—before she needs to call a real ambulance for the next victim...






About The Author –

Laura Bradford (aka Elizabeth Lynn Casey) is the author of several mystery series and a handful of romance novels. She is a former Agatha Award nominee and the recipient of an RT Reviewer’s Choice Award. In her free time, Laura enjoys making memories with her family, baking, playing games, and catching up with friends. In addition to the Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries, Laura writes The Amish Mysteries and The Jenkins & Burns mysteries, as well as The Southern Sewing Circle Mysteries (as Elizabeth Lynn Casey).

For more information, visit Laura’s website: www.laurabradford.com or get to know her even better on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/laurabradfordauthor, and on Twitter: @bradfordauthor

Website: www.laurabradford.com

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

Twitter: @bradfordauthor


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Saturday, May 28, 2016

Blog Tour and Giveaway- The Madness of Mercury by Connie di Marco

I am thrilled to be part of this blog tour. Connie Di Marco is visiting and she has a brand new book series releasing on June 8th. The Madness of Mercury (A Zodiac Mystery).








Series: A Zodiac Mystery (Book 1)
Paperback: 312 pages
Publisher: Midnight Ink (June 8, 2016)
Language: English



Synopsis
San Francisco astrologer Julia Bonatti’s life is turned upside down when she becomes the target of the city’s newest cult leader, Reverend Roy of the Prophet’s Tabernacle. Driven out of her apartment in the midst of a disastrous Mercury retrograde period, she takes shelter with a client who’s caring for two elderly aunts. One aunt appears stricken with dementia and the other has fallen under the spell of the Reverend Roy. To add to the confusion, a young man claiming to be a long lost nephew arrives. The longer he stays, the more dangerous things become. Is the young man truly a member of the family? Can astrology confirm that? Julia’s not sure, but one thing she does know is that Mercury wasn’t merely the messenger of the gods—he was a trickster and a liar as well.


In Connie Di Marco's brand new book The Madness of Mercury, the signs are all there that this will be a great new hit. A Fresh new cast of characters and a strong story line keep your interest peaked and keep you so involved in the story you won't want to stop reading. It keeps you guessing until the end with twist and turns. I enjoyed this one and am looking forward to what will happen next.



It’s in the Stars

You might think that an astrologer as a protagonist is an odd choice, but I liked it. That’s why I invented Julia Bonatti, a crime-solving astrologer. I’ve always loved mysteries and once I was introduced to the subject of astrology, I was fascinated. Astrology is a mystery all by itself. So I thought, why not put the two together?

Now, you may not believe in the subject. That’s okay. You certainly don’t have to, but it is amazing to look at a natal chart and make a quick observation about the character of a person. How that individual approaches life, how they appear to others, what sort of opinions and attitudes they might hold.

The natal chart is a map of your intentions at birth. It will describe the things that come easily to you, as well as those traits and skills that will or must be developed in this lifetime. The birth chart will show where you are headed on your life path. Character really is destiny, and your astrological chart is both the map and the timing of that journey.

Here’s just one example -- Saturn by transit makes a complete cycle of the natal chart every twenty-eight or so years. It’s called the Saturn return and when that planet returns to its natal position at approximately age 28 (or a little more), it’s always a significant time, a “coming of age” cycle, a time we are most free to make our own choices in life, apart from parental or societal influences. Think back on your own experiences. What happened around that time? Did you marry? Have a child? Change occupations? Get a divorce? There is both a completion of the old and a beginning of the new at the time of the Saturn return.

And astrological studies of famous people are just as interesting. Here’s one I’ve read about that has always intrigued me. Both Mahatma Ghandi and Charles Manson have similar patterns between Mars, Venus and Saturn in their charts. Could you imagine two such different people having anything in common? They each made different choices in life. Manson chose a life of evil, Ghandi chose an ascetic life devoted to freeing his country.

Does Julia use astrology in solving crimes? Yes, she does. She can tell if there’s a relationship between two individuals. She can tell when someone is wearing a mask. She knows when a client might be in danger because of a transit or an eclipse to a sensitive point in their natal chart.

Astrology is an endlessly fascinating subject and if you follow the Zodiac Mysteries, you’ll see that I try to tailor the characters to their natal horoscopes or vice versa. I may add a disclaimer that anyone born on a certain date isn’t necessarily a murderer, I don’t want to frighten anyone, and I do take liberties, but not too much. Just enough to tell a story and solve a mystery.




About The Author –
Connie di Marco is the author of the Zodiac Mysteries from Midnight Ink. She was fascinated by astrology at an early age and this was the inspiration that gave birth to Julia Bonatti, San Francisco astrologer and her newspaper column Ask Zodia. Writing as Connie Archer, she is also the author of the Soup Lover’s Mystery series from Berkley Prime Crime. Connie lives in Los Angeles with her family and a constantly talking cat.
Website: www.conniedimarco.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConniediMarco
Twitter: @askzodia
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Connie_di_Marco/the-zodiac-mysteries/



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First in Series- Miss Julia Speaks her Mind by Ann B. Ross

Happy Monday! This week's First in Series is Miss Julia Speaks her Mind by Ann B. Ross Released on August 22, 2000. Seri...