First in Series- Dying for a Date by Cindy Sample

Happy Monday! This week's First in Series is Dying for a Date (A Laurel MaKay Mystery Series) by Cindy Sample.Released on September 25, 2013, this one will tickle the funny bone.

Series: Laurel McKay Mysteries
Paperback: 252 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 1 edition (September 25, 2013)
Language: English





Amazon Bestseller in Mystery and Humor

Unsure if she is looking for Mr. Right, or Mr. Every Other Saturday Night, divorced mother of two, Laurel McKay reluctantly joins THE LOVE CLUB, a popular local dating service. Dressed to kill, she meets bachelor number one at a trendy restaurant. But the date is a bust, literally, when the guy decides Laurel is dessert, and she breaks his nose with her cell phone. It gets even worse when the man is found murdered the next morning, and Laurel has his blood on her clothes.

Despite her now being a person of interest to the police, Laurel bravely ventures out on date number two. When that unlucky bachelor disappears during dinner, Laurel's only alibi is a bottle of Dom Perignon. The sexy investigating detective thinks she's innocent and is worried she may be the next target. That's more than enough motivation for Laurel to find a murderer determined to kill her social life--before dating becomes a dead end she can't escape. "Cindy Sample knows how to weave a story that satisfies and excites...simultaneously harrowing, exciting, tender, and uplifting, a true who-done-it combined with a romance that will warm the heart and sheets." 5 stars -Long and Short Reviews

"Dying for a Date is one of those books, the type you stay up late - way too late - to finish. Combining murder mystery and humor is a difficult task and "Cindy Sample does it brilliantly."-Jenny Hilborne, author of the Mac Jackson Mystery Thriller series

"Funny dialogue, relatable heroine, fast-paced plot. If real dating were this entertaining, we'd all be doing more of it. Dying for a Date will keep you glued to the pages and laughing out loud." -Liz Jasper, Eppie award-winning author of Underdead and Underdead in Denial.

"With tongue-in-cheek and a tush in tight skirts, Laurel McKay traverses the demands of motherhood and the perils of on-line dating in Cindy Sample's chic mystery, Dying for a Date. Re-entering the singles scene after divorce isn't easy as Laurel discovers when her "blind date" tries to practice Braille on her body. Her first bad date becomes his last when he's found dead the next day. Curl up with a pint of ice cream, fluffy slippers and a book that will make you glad you're having a night in." -Sunny Frazier, Author of the Christy Bristol Astrology Mysteries

"Dying for a Date combines the fun of a spunky and smart heroine with an exciting murder mystery. This is an excellent entry to the world of romantic mysteries.-San Francisco Book Review



About the author:

Cindy Sample is the national bestselling author of the Laurel McKay humorous romantic mystery series. She is a four-time LEFTY Award Finalist for best humorous mystery. Her experiences with on-line dating sites fueled the concept for DYING FOR A DATE.



Find out more about Cindy and her books by visiting her website: 

http://cindysamplebooks.com/

Blog Tour and giveaway- Mrs. Odboddy Hometown Patriot by Elaine Faber

It's time for another fun blog tour. I am excited to have been apart of this one. Mrs. Odboddy Hometown Patriot by Elaine Faber was released on January 15th,2016.

Series: Mrs. Odboddy Mysteries (Book 1)
Paperback: 258 pages
Publisher: Elk Grove Publications (January 15, 2016)
Language: English



Synopsis:

Since the onset of WWII, Agnes Agatha Odboddy, hometown patriot and self-appointed scourge of the underworld, suspects conspiracies around every corner…stolen ration books, German spies running amuck, and a possible Japanese invasion off the California coast. This seventy-year-old, model citizen would set the world aright if she could get Chief Waddlemucker to pay attention to the town’s nefarious deeds on any given Meatless Monday.

Mrs. Odboddy vows to bring the villains, both foreign and domestic, to justice, all while keeping chickens in her bathroom, working at the Ration Stamp Office, and knitting argyles for the boys on the front lines.

Imagine the chaos when Agnes’s long-lost WWI lover returns, hoping to find a million dollars in missing Hawaiian money and rekindle their ancient romance. In the thrilling conclusion, Agnes’s predictions become all too real when Mrs. Roosevelt unexpectedly comes to town to attend a funeral and Agnes must prove that she is, indeed, a warrior on the home front.

In Elaine Faber's brand new series Mrs.Odboddy Hometown patriot you will meet a fun and witty cast of characters, a fresh new story and enjoy hours of fast-paced humorous reading. A page-turner that will keeping you wanting more.

About the Author:
About The Author –

Elaine is a member of Sisters in Crime, Inspire Christian Writers and Cat Writers Association. She lives in No. Calif with her husband and four house cats (the inspiration for her three humorous cozy cat mysteries, Black Cat’s Legacy, Black Cat and the Lethal Lawyer, and Black Cat and the Accidental Angel).

Mrs. Odboddy’s character is based in no way on Elaine’s quirky personality. Two more Mrs. Odboddy adventures will publish in the near future. Many of Elaine’s short stories have appeared in magazines and multiple anthologies.

Webpage/blog: www.mindcandymysteries.com
Facebook, http://tinyurl.com/zm2j4n5

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Spotlight- The Thing Is by Kathleen Gerard

I am excited to feature Kathleen Gerard's newest book The Thing Is. Released on March 9.2016 you will want to add this to your tbr pile.

Paperback: 276 pages
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing; 1 edition (December 16, 2015)
Language: English



Meredith Mancuso is depressed. Ever since the death of her fiancé, she has shrunk from the world. Even with her successful writing career, she's not motivated to work. When her sister, Monica, begs for a favor, Meredith wants nothing more than to say no. But she’s ultimately roped into pet-sitting an orphaned Yorkshire terrier named Prozac. Blessed with spiritual wisdom and a high IQ, Prozac is an active pet therapy dog.

To heal broken-hearted Meredith, he rallies his fan club at Evergreen Gardens, an independent living facility, where he visits each week. Prozac and the community of resilient older folks challenged by losses of their own propel Meredith, often against her will, back into the land of the living. Meredith learns that most people carry some sort of burden, but it's still possible to find meaning, purpose, and joy—and sometimes, even love—along the way.

This is my first book I have read from this author and I found it to be very enjoyable.The story line is touching and holds you captive. The characters are fun and at times funny and really make this story strong. Love, moving on and the strengthe to get through what life throws at you is what this story is about.You will fall in love with Prozac, Meredith's little Yorkshire. You won't want to put this book down once you start it.

About the Author

Kathleen Gerard is a writer whose work has been awarded The Perillo Prize, The Eric Hoffer Prose Award and nominated for Best New American Voices and Short Story America, all national prizes in literature. Kathleen writes across genres. Her short prose and poetry have been widely published in magazines, journals and anthologies.Her essays have been broadcast on National Public Radio (NPR). Kathleen's woman-in-jeopardy novel IN TRANSIT won The New York Book Festival - "Best Romantic Fiction" (2011). Kathleen writes for Shelf Awareness and maintains the blog, "Reading Between the Lines."

http://thethingis-thenovel.blogspot.com/

Blog Tour and giveaway- To Catch a Treat by Linda O. Johnston

I am thrilled to have Linda O. Johnston with us today.Her new book To Catch a Treat was released on May 8th.

Series: A Barkery & Biscuits Mystery (Book 2)
Paperback: 312 pages
Publisher: Midnight Ink (May 8, 2016)
Language: English



When a Dog-Snatching Scheme Leads to Murder, Carrie Must Sniff Out the Truth

Carrie Kennersly, veterinary technician and owner of the Barkery and Biscuits bake shop, agrees to a day of hiking with her brother Neal―mostly because she wants to meet and critique his latest romantic interest, Janelle Blaystone. But instead of judging her, Carrie feels only sympathy for Janelle, whose beloved black Labrador, Go, was recently dognapped.

Janelle thinks the culprit is Ada Arnist, a wealthy homeowner spotted at the dog park where Go was stolen. Soon after Janelle confronts Ada, though, the woman is found dead. With Janelle and Neal on the suspect list, Carrie must solve the mystery before the police bark up the wrong tree.

Praise:

"A mystery to delight dog lovers."―Booklist

"This sophomore outing is as delightful as its predecessor."―Library Journal

This is book two in the series and I enjoyed this one. The atmosphere is welcoming and fun. Dog lovers will not want to miss this one. Carrie has her hands full with her Vet job and her two barkeries. When she decides to take some time for herself and do a little hiking she never thought she would fins a dead body. Now she has to do what she can to clear her friends name and get back to work. This is a fun whodunit that will keep you wanting more.

About The Author –

Linda O. Johnston’s first published fiction appeared in Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine and won the Robert L. Fish Memorial Award for Best First Mystery Short Story of the year. Since then, Linda, a former lawyer who is now a full-time writer, has published more short stories, novellas, and 38 romance and mystery novels, including the Pet Rescue Mystery Series, a spinoff from her Kendra Ballantyne, Pet-Sitter mysteries for Berkley Prime Crime, and Harlequin Romantic Suspense as well as the Alpha Force paranormal romance miniseries for Harlequin Nocturne. She additionally writes the Superstition Mysteries for Midnight Ink. Her latest cozy mystery series, the Barkery and Biscuits Mysteries are also from Midnight Ink.

Author Links:

Webpage: www.LindaOJohnston.com

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


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Guess the Mystery hosted by Terrie Moran

Happy Wednesday! This weeks Guess the Mystery is hosted by Terrie Moran. Terrie is the author of the Read 'em and Eat mystery.


Can you guess which book the excerpt is from? You know the author now it is time to play. One lucky winner will receive This nice and roomy tote bag that is perfect for trips to the Library or where ever you may go. Leave your answers and email in the comments below. Winner will be chosen on Saturday. Good Luck everyone!!

“Oh, pu-leeze, Rowena, Anya Seton never measured up to Daphne du Maurier’s elegance. I’m shocked you would say such a thing.” Jocelyn Kendall, pastor’s wife and book club gadfly, crossed and recrossed her legs in perfect tempo with the ever-increasing meter of her rant. Our discussion of Green Darkness was deteriorating rapidly.

“For example, in Rebecca . . .”

Recalling last year’s “Battle of the Brontë Sisters” completely ruining one meeting of the Books Before Breakfast Club, followed by minor skirmishes flaring up during the next two or three, I interrupted with a feigned look at my watch and as much cheer as I could muster.

“I’d no idea it was so late. We need to select this month’s book.” I tried for a smile bright enough to encourage participation. “Does anyone have a suggestion?”

Jocelyn pushed a hank of hair, the color and texture of straw, off her forehead and glared at the other four women sitting in a semicircle, as if daring anyone to answer me. She certainly didn’t intimidate the oldest member of the book club, Miss Augusta Maddox, who glared back, shoved her own copy of Green Darkness into a faded denim tote and zipped it shut. Then, tilting to her left, Miss Augusta nudged my favorite club member, Miss Delia Batson, who leaned in and handed me a piece of paper, edged by two sharp creases where it had been doubled and doubled again. As always, Delia avoided eye contact, gazing instead at her veined and mottled hands, now primly resting in her generous lap, fingers tightly interlocked.

“Well, thank you, Miss Delia”—I flipped opened her note and was relieved she was moving us in a completely different direction—“for suggesting the lighthearted Sheriff Dan Rhodes series by Bill Crider. Has anyone a particular favorite we might try?”

From the far side of the café, my BFF and business partner, Bridgy Mayfield, shot me a wink and a thumbs-up.

Irritated by our conversation, Judge Harcroft harrumphed and rattled his copy of our local broadsheet, the Fort Myers Beach News. He was sitting at the Dashiell Hammett table, right next to the café’s book nook, not exactly a haven of peace and quiet during book club meetings, but he refused to sit anywhere else. His erect posture, immaculate white collared shirt and impeccably groomed, albeit thinning, gray hair gave the impression that he was merely on a short break from presiding over a momentous, legally significant trial, instead of being retired from traffic court for less than a year. The judge’s ongoing routine drove everyone crazy. “I’ll have just a Dash of milk, thank you.” Or, when he finally folded up his newspaper, getting ready to leave, “Enjoy your day. I must Dash.” His strident chuckle left everyone in hearing distance gritting their teeth.

Ignoring me, Jocelyn hammered her point. “You can hear the lyricism in Rebecca’s opening line.” She rolled her hand in figure eights while reciting, “‘Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again.’ How does that compare to”—she opened her copy of Green Darkness—“‘Celia Marsdon, young, rich and unhappy, sat huddled in a lounge chair . . .’?” Jocelyn slammed the book shut. “Not even a hint of cadence.”

Rowena Gustavsen’s head snapped high. Shoulders ramrod straight, she jutted her chin directly at Jocelyn. Before she could toss a rejoinder that would no doubt launch a full-fledged melee, Miss Augusta Maddox boomed, “Delia’s got a fine idea. I like Sheriff Dan. He had me chuckling all through The Wild Hog Murders. Sassy, can you find out if there’s a new book and get us copies right quick?”

Terrie Farley Moran is delighted to introduce mystery fans to the Read ‘Em and Eat café and bookstore, where murder and sweet tea are always on the menu. Agatha Award Best First Novel winner, Well Read, Then Dead, the first book in the Read ‘Em and Eat series has been followed by Caught Read-Handed. Read to Death is available for pre-order.

Terrie’s short mystery fiction has appeared in Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine, Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and various anthologies. She has been short-listed twice for the annual Best American Mystery Stories. And her story, “A Killing at the Beausoleil” has been nominated for an Agatha Award for Best Short Story.

The only thing Terrie enjoys more than wrangling mystery plots into submission is playing games and reading stories with any or all of her seven grandchildren.

http://terriefarleymoran.com/

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