Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Spotlight on Christmas: THE CHRISTMAS CONUNDRUM - A Liz Adams Mystery by Stacy Wilder


A Christmas Conundrum: A Liz Adams Mystery 
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Wolf Hawk Press 

About the Book:

Nancy Drew meets How the Grinch Stole Christmas in this delightful cozy mystery set in Charleston, SC. 

Who’s stealing the holiday decorations? They’re disappearing like Christmas cookies from PeggyLou Designs, and Lou’s newly launched event planning service is in trouble. He implores his neighbor and friend, Private Investigator Liz Adams, to bring the thief to justice. 



The clock is ticking. It’s only ten days until the mayor’s big holiday celebration. The party that will make or break Lou’s business. 

Liz’s mom, Babs, steps in to help, and the investigation becomes complicated. Suddenly the holidays are not all mistletoe and merriment when Bab’s life is threatened. Will Liz and her lie-detecting Labrador retriever, Duke, discover the perpetrator before it’s too late? 

Experience Charleston in the city’s full Christmas glory in this fun fast-paced holiday story. 

Purchase Links: 

About the Author:

Stacy Wilder has traveled to six out of seven continents Books have shaped her life and her travels. Her love of mysteries began with Nancy Drew. A Christmas Conundrum is the third book in the riveting Liz Adams Mystery series. In addition to mysteries, Stacy writes children’s stories, short stories, and poetry. She and her husband live in Houston, Texas, with a totally spoiled Labrador retriever, Eve. 

Author Links: 

Monday, December 4, 2023

Book Review: MURDER ON BAINBRIDGE ISLAND : A Northwest Cozy Mystery by Dianne Harman

About the Book 

When DeeDee's inaugural catering event becomes a crime scene, her budding business is thrust into jeopardy. The Seattle art world is rocked after Lisa, a prominent gallery owner, is found dead during the evening's festivities. 

With whispers of suspicion tainting her reputation, DeeDee has more than her livelihood at stake; she's also racing against time to clear her name. Teaming up with Jake, a savvy private investigator she's grown close to, and her loyal husky, Balto, DeeDee dives into a world of intrigue and danger. 

Book Review 

DeeDee returns to Bainbridge Island following a divorce, decides to start a catering company as part of her new life. She no sooner gets started and she's hired to cater a dinner for Marlene Palmer, who DeeDee knew from working at a docent at the art museum. Everyone loves the food, only someone murders one of the guests. The first suggested cause of death is the food, and DeeDee is sure her new business is in danger. Add in Jake, the attractive PI who sells her a husky trained to be a guard dog, and DeeDee is determined to find the killer and clear any concerns about her catering. 

This was an enjoyable read with a host of suspects. DeeDee is likable, a little naive, and down to earth. Jake is also likable and predictable, especially when DeeDee doesn't seem to think she could be in danger. Both characters are well-developed as are the main suspects, DeeDee's sister, Roz, and Balto with his rabbit. Murder on Bainbridge Island is the first in the Northwest Cozy Mysteries. If you like cozy mysteries, dogs, and food, and haven't discovered this series yet, I recommend it.


The Northwest Cozy Mystery Series

Murder on Bainbridge Island, Murder in Whistler, Murder in Seattle, Murder after Midnight, Murder at Le Bijou Bistro, Murder at the Gallery, Murder at the Waterfront, Murder and Food Porn, Murder in the Cayman Islands, Murder in Chicago, The Final Curtain Call, Murder at the Manor, Murder in Vancouver, Murder on the Train, Murder after Dinner, The Troubled Tycoon, Murder in Portland, Confusion at the Convention, A Murderous Opening, The Missing Husband, Too Good To Be True, Murder on the Rooftop, Voices From The Past, The Final Farewell 

About the Author (from Amazon)

USA Today Bestselling Author and Amazon All-Star, Dianne Harman, draws her stories and characters from a diverse business and personal background. She owned a national antique and art appraisal business for many years, left that industry, and opened two yoga centers where she taught yoga and certified yoga instructors. 

She's traveled extensively throughout the world and loves nothing more than cooking with her husband, Tom, and playing with their boxer dog, Kelly. Being a dog lover and having attended numerous cooking schools, she couldn't resist writing about food and dogs. 

She’s the author of several cozy mystery series: Cedar Bay, Liz Lucas, High Desert, Midwest, Cottonwood Springs, and Chef Dani Rosetti. Most of these books contains recipes from her travels. She is also the author of the award-winning suspenseful Coyote Series, Midlife Journey Series, Holly Lewis Mystery Series, Miranda Riley Paranormal Cozy Mystery Series, and the Maria Rodriguez Mystery Series.

To get your free books from Dianne, just cut and paste: http://ow.ly/wgVG304NU9N Enjoy! 

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Giving Thanks


Happy Thanksgiving to those who celebrate. In today's world with much stress and negative media, demonstrations, and such, it may be more important to give thanks for the positives in our lives, not just today, but every day.  

Each day, I'm thankful for my good health and the good health of most of my family, friends, and colleagues.  Thankful that those who have been ill or injured are healing. I have a roof over my head and food on my table. I have people who make me feel valued and respected.  I'm glad I'm able to help others.  On the lighter side, I'm thankful for authors who write stories that allow me to escape from the stressors of the day.

What are you thankful for?


Monday, November 20, 2023

Book Review: A Felonious Finale (Owl's Nest Mysteries #4) by C. S. McDonald



Book Details
Book Title: A FELONIOUS FINALE (The Owl's Nest Mysteries)
Author: C.S. McDonald
Category: Adult Fiction, 268 pages
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publisher: McWriter Books
Release Date: April 2023
Content Rating: G

C.S. McDonald's books are appropriate for YA readers as well as adults - no bad language or sexual content.

Book Description:

Alexa Owl has one burning question: Who killed Bobby Starr?

Out of the blue that ornery angel, Detective Bobby Starr, shows up at The Owl’s Nest Couturier Shoppe. Much to Alexa Owl’s surprise, Bobby doesn’t need her help. Rather, he’s brought along someone else who wants to qualify for Saint Peter’s Guardian Angel Squad. Saint Pete has delegated this new inductee to solve a murder to get into the group, and it’s a doozie: Who killed Detective Bobby Starr? How can Alexa turn this assignment down?

Back in the 60s, Bobby’s fifth wife, Katherine was a diva in a community operetta company. During a performance of The Merry Widow, Bobby was forced to stand-in for a member of the chorus who fell ill. Only, Bobby’s first performance would be his last! The suspects are hitting all the notes as this mystery comes to crescendo!

Review:

Welcome to Owl's Nest and the Saint Peter's Guardian Angel squad. When Bobby shows up in Owl's nest, Alexa figures he needs some favor. Only, it's more than that. He's brought along Detective Slater (not the current day one she's involved with, Cliff), who wants to join the squad. Only St. Pete's requirement is that he solve Bobby's murder and Alexa is to help him.

Not as simple as it may sound. This entails time travel for Alexa and Slater back to when Bobby was murdered and replaying the Merry Widow when Bobby took on a small part because the person who should have been there wasn't (because he was also murdered). Alexa takes on a role in the Merry Widow to cover inside; the detective covers outside. A twist occurs when the current day Detective Cliff Slater is assigned both cold cases to investigate. Of course that leaves Alexa dealing with both detective Slaters.

McDonald weaves in murder, humor, time travel, opera, and romance in the plot of this story. The characters of Owl's Nest are well developed with Alexa's role the most interesting of all. The story moves at a steady pace with the renactment of the Merry Widow with Alexa playing a part providing all the background. While others are solving a murder, Bobby has his own part to play, adding a level of complexity.

This is the fourth in the Owl's Nest Mysteries, but is easily read as a stand alone mystery. That said, as with any series, it is best to start at the beginning (see below). Cozy mystery readers will surely resonate all this story offers.

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. This has not affected my review in any way.


Buy the Book:
__________________________________________________

Enjoy These Other Owl's Nest Mysteries:

Book Details:
Book Title: Back to the Burgh and Beyond (The Owl's Nest Mysteries, Book 1)
Author: C.S. McDonald
Category: Adult Fiction, 208 pages
Run Time: 5 hours, 59 minutes
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publisher: McWriter Books
Release date: Sep 10, 2020

Book Description:

Meet Alexa Owl. She's returned home to Pittsburgh after a divorce to start a new life and a new business, The Owl’s Nest Couturier Shoppe. Much to her surprise, she's getting more than she ever bargained for: Detective Bobby Starr, and he's no ordinary sleuth. Bobby is an angel who's returned to Earth in hopes of earning his way into the Guardian Angel Squad. 
He's been sent by none other than Saint Pete to acquire Alexa’s help to solve three cold case murders he left behind. Except, here’s the catch: he’s only been allotted four days to solve the first case! How in heaven’s name is she supposed to do that? Alexa is a professional seamstress—not a detective. Bobby insists the only way to solve the first case is to return to 1953, and Alexa’s not in love with that idea at all!
Buy the Book:
Add to Goodreads
__________________________________________________
Book Details:
Book Title: Maxed Out (The Owl's Nest Mysteries)
Author: C.S. McDonald
Category: Adult Fiction, 184 pages
Length: 5 hours, 32 minutes
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publisher: McWriter Books
Release date: April 2021

Book Description:

The Owl’s Nest Couturier Shoppe is a huge success! Business is booming and Alexa Owl’s love life is heating up. Yet much to the seamstress’s dismay, Detective Bobby Starr is suddenly back again! Bobby isn’t your everyday gumshoe. Rather, he’s an angel who’s trying to earn a place in Saint Peter’s Guardian Angel Squad. He’s required to solve murders he had left unsettled from when he walked the earth in order to be accepted into this prestigious group. 


Buy the Book
add to goodreads

 








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Book Details:
Book Title: DOUBLE DOG DARE (The Owl's Nest Mysteries)
Author: C.S. McDonald
Category: Adult Fiction, 274 pages 
Genre: Cozy Mystery 
Publisher: McWriter Books

Release date: May 2022
Book Description:

That ornery, but oh, so handsome, charming, and somewhat, wayward angel, Detective Bobby Starr, has returned. This time, he’s back to fulfill his third and, hopefully, his final requirement to get into Saint Peter's prestigious Guardian Angel Squad. This time, the usually reluctant time traveler, Alexa Owl, is ready to go back to the 1960's to assist in solving one more long-ago murder. 

Why? Because if all goes well, she'll be rid of the menacing angel once and for all. 

Except, an emergency jerks Alexa back to her own time, and to complicate matters, she’s got a tag-along. Can Bobby solve this last case without Alexa’s help? After all, she’s got her hands full with a life-or-death mystery in the twenty-first century!


Buy the Book:
add to goodreads
___________________________________________________


Meet the Author:

For twenty-six years C.S. McDonald’s life whirled around a song and a dance. Classically trained at Pittsburgh Ballet Theater School, The Pittsburgh Dance Alloy, and many others, she became a professional dancer and choreographer. During that time, she choreographed many musicals and an opera for the Pittsburgh Savoyards. In 2011 she retired from her dance career to write. Under her real name, Cindy McDonald, she writes murder-suspense and romantic suspense novels. In 2014 she added the pen name, C.S. McDonald, to write children’s books for her grandchildren. In 2016 she added the Fiona Quinn Mysteries to that expansion. She decided to write the cozy mystery series that everyone, including teens and tweens, can read and enjoy. Presently, the Fiona Quinn Mysteries includes nine books with a tenth slated for 2021. The books are also available on audio, narrated by Maren Swenson Waxenberg.

Cindy’s newest venture is The Owl’s Nest Mysteries. Once again, she has set her cozy mystery in Pittsburgh and the female protagonist, Alexa Owl, is much different from Fiona Quinn. The Owl’s Nest Mysteries has a little grit, a little time travel, a little romance, and a whole lot of cozy!

Ms. McDonald resides on her Thoroughbred farm known as Fly by Night Stables near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Bill, and her poorly behaved Cocker Spaniel, Allister.

Connect with the author: 

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

New Release: A CATASTROPHIC NEIGHBORHOOD (A Pet Momma Cozy Mystery Book 1) by Maryann Shanesy


About the Book 

Tarsey Quinston and her husband Steve are excited about moving to their new home in the picturesque community of Bluffington Hills. It turns out the neighborhood isn’t as idyllic as they hoped. Mystery overshadows the community with quirky neighbors, an angry property manager and the suspicious death of the town seamstress. 


With a nudge from her cat, Tarsey feels compelled to find out what happened with the unsolved case. As the layers of perfection are peeled away and drama within the Homeowners Association causes uproar, the property manager and Tarsey’s cat suddenly go missing. Now desperate to find her beloved pet, Tarsey must solve the mystery of what happened to all three of them before there is a CATastrophic situation! 

Purchase Links 


About Maryann Shanesy

Maryann Shanesy is a native of Maryland who has always enjoyed writing. A lifelong lover of mysteries and anything gardening, she is a pet momma to a rescue dog and cat that brightens her life. She and her husband have two wonderful daughters and live in the suburbs of Washington, D.C. She hopes you will enjoy her first cozy mystery. 

Author Links 






Thursday, November 9, 2023

Book Spotlight: MURDER MAYHEM AND 4 OF A KIND (High Cotton Mysteries) by Duffy Brown


Murder, Mayhem and 4 of a Kind (High Cotton Mysteries) 
Cozy Mystery 1st in Series 
Setting – Georgia 
Independently Published (September 21, 2023) 
 174 pages 

BOOKBLAST

About the Book

When rotten-to-the-core Payton Wilder winds up dead in Savannah, Nola Cottonwood’s two aunts are suspects in the murder. Can Nola find the real killer, and how will the others help them get away with it. 

About the Author

Duffy Brown loves anything with a mystery. While other girls dreamed of dating Brad Pitt, Duffy longed to take Sherlock Holmes to the prom. She has two cats, Spooky and Dr. Watson, her license plate is Sherlok and she conjures up who-done-it stories of her very own for Berkley Prime Crime. Duffy’s national bestselling Consignment Shop Mystery series is set in Savannah and the Cycle Path Mysteries are set on Mackinac Island. 


Author Links 


Purchase Link

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Spotlight - A NUTCRACKER NIGHTMARE (A Killer Chocolate Mystery) by Christina Romeril


A Nutcracker Nightmare (A Killer Chocolate Mystery) 
Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series 
Setting – Montana 
Crooked Lane Books 
Pulbished October 17, 2023  ‎ 
320 pages  

Perfect for fans of Joanne Fluke and Laura Childs, when twin sisters Hanna and Alex help out at the local high school reunion, volunteering takes a turn when they find a former classmate’s dead body. 

About the Book

Hanna and Alex, owners of the Murder and Mayhem book and chocolate shop, are busy preparing for the Harriston High School’s reunion weekend. Neighbors will connect with old friends and perhaps try to avoid old foes. One person no one can avoid is Kyle, the former star quarterback, who is busy using his entire playbook to try and score with Hanna, even threatening her if she doesn’t play nice. 


At the reunion, Alex glimpses more drama than nostalgia as insults are flung around like a football at a Friday night game. The party is put on hold when Alex finds the dead body of none other than Kyle himself, bludgeoned to death by a nutcracker that the sisters admired earlier in the night. 

Hanna quickly becomes the prime suspect—someone saw her slap Kyle in the face at the reunion dance. She’ll need her sister, their sleuthing canine, Watson, and their old friends and colleagues to help break this case wide open. While looking through old yearbooks and taking a stroll down memory lane, Alex uncovers a few secrets about Kyle, now, it seems like everyone had a motive to kill him. 

But when the suspects start becoming the victims, Alex and Hanna know that they can’t melt under the pressure—they must find the killer before they become just another yearbook memory. 

Purchase Links 

About the Author 

Christina Romeril is the author of the Killer Chocolate Mystery series. The series is set in Montana at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, one of her favourite places to visit. She and her husband live a few hours away in a small village in Southern Alberta. 

When Christina isn’t writing she loves to hike in Waterton Lakes National Park, or just hang out there eating gourmet hot dogs and ice cream. When the former banker isn’t enjoying nature, she loves to create and consume chocolate confections. Not necessarily in that order. 






Thursday, October 19, 2023

Book Review - PLATFORM SHOES A Steve Daniels Mystery Series Book 1 by Linda Watkins

Something different... A noir crime/historical mystery

ABOUT THE BOOK

The year was 1943. He was a pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps, on loan to the British, flying a reconnaissance mission over occupied France. Shot down, he had to make his way back to England with what could prove to be a very important reel of film taped to his chest.

Wounded, he was grounded and sent back to the States to the Air Cadet Base in San Antonio, Texas to teach. Plagued by nightmares stemming from his wartime experiences, he was easy pickings for a woman like her … She was his commander’s wife – beautiful, restless, and the wrong kind of woman for him. 

What would happen when they got together would be nothing less than murder... 

REVIEW 

Although Steve Daniels is a hero, due to his injuries sustained as a pilot, he's to teach pilots instead of being one. His nightmares and his disappointment at not being able to continue his dream career? Well, he's not always thinking clearly. 

Then there's Kathy. She's married to Steve's commanding officer and she wants out of the marriage. Steve falls for her and she frames him for her husband's murder, then disappears. His attorney and the assistant appeal his guilty verdict, get the charges erased. You'd think he would take the good fortune and run (with the assistant now officially a lawyer). Anyone could predict the trouble he would find searching for Kathy.

Watkins depicts what was happening in the early 40s, the tension, and the effects of war before PTSD was even recognized. I'm partial to happy endings and Steve blows his HEA. At the same time, there's part of me that understands his wanting to confront Kathy, and the consequences be damned. 

I don't usually read noir crime, however, I do read historical fiction, especially the WWII era.The book is well-written, kept my interest, with twists and turns, and more action just when I thought it would end. It is as advertised - noir crime and historical fiction. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR (from Amazon)

USA Today bestselling author, Linda Watkins is the author of the multi-award-winning MATEGUAS ISLAND SERIES. She currently resides in Sedona, Arizona and, in another life, was a Senior Clinical Financial Analyst at Stanford University School of Medicine. 

In 2006, she packed her belongings and, along with her four rescue dogs, took the plunge and moved to a remote island off the coast of Maine where she started the MATEGUAS ISLAND SERIES. 

She also published a new stand-alone novel, SUMMER GIRL, and a novella, SARAH & ZOEY, A STORY ABOUT THE POWER OF UNCONDITIONAL LOVE, both of which are award-winners. In November, 2018, she published the first of the THE KATE POMEROY MYSTERIES, STORM ISLAND. She also has a novella (The Witches of Storm Island, Book I: The Turning) in the USA Today bestselling boxset, LOVE UNDER FIRE. 

Serious about dog welfare and rescue, all net proceeds from sales of THE MATEGUAS ISLAND SERIES are donated to Linda's charitable trust, The Raison d'Etre Fund for Dogs, Dedicated to Rescue and Research. Linda is a member of the Horror Writers Association, The Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers, The International Association of Crime Writers (N.A.), and the Authors Guild. 

To take a look at her other works or communicate with her, please visit her website, her blog where she posts book reviews and other features and/or her novel website, dedicated to the Mateguas Island Series

Sunday, October 15, 2023

October new releases - SECRETS AND STORMS, ANOTHER MURDER (Sheridan Hendley #8) and RISKY BUSINESS, ANOTHER MURDER (Sheridan Hendley #9) by Christa Nardi

SECRETS AND STORMS, ANOTHER MURDER
Sheridan Hendley Mysteries #8
Released October 10, 2023
A Cozy Mystery Novella
Available in digital, print, and audiobook

Never a good time for family secrets in the past to become the present.

Sheridan Hendley, an amateur sleuth, never imagined a tranquil morning following a stormy night would turn into a crime scene at the local high school soccer field. As news of the murder spreads, the community is gripped with a sense of unease. The victim's son shows up at Sheridan’s door confused and seeking answers. 

Delving into the victim’s recent activities and background leads to a disgruntled customer and family secrets. As Sheridan digs deeper, she finds herself gradually connecting the dots. Only the killer watches on as Sheridan becomes more determined to help the son and find the killer. Sheridan may become the next victim.

Available through AMAZON

RISKY BUSINESS, ANOTHER MURDER
Sheridan Hendley Mysteries #9
Releases 10/20/2023
Cozy Mystery
Available in digital and print formats
Audiobook coming soon!

When a man engages in risky business, it’s not surprising he’s dead.

When Donald Woodlawn, an investment advisor from Lynchburg, is shot dead in their quiet town, Sheridan Hendley can’t help but wonder why. As the secrets of his questionable financial dealings with investment clients unravel, she discovers that a dangerous combination of gambling debts and alcohol drove him to target rich and powerful men.  

Multiple layers of risk and Sheridan’s quick thinking leads to many suspects. Danger lurks around every corner. As the threats and accidents mount, Sheridan's determined to peel back the layers of deception to uncover the killer.  

Available at AMAZON



A New Place, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #1) 
Dogs and More Dogs, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #2) 
Old Friends and New, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #3) 
Holly and Holidays, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #4) 
Wine and Dead, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #5) 
Love and Money, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #6) 
Music and Memories, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #7) 
Secrets and Storms, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #8)
Risky Business, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley #9)


About Christa Nardi

Christa Nardi is an avid reader with her love of mysteries beginning with Nancy Drew and other teen mysteries. She especially enjoys cozy mysteries with less gore and no graphic violence. 

Christa has been a longtime writer from poetry and short stories to mystery series. She received a Readers Favorite 2023 Finalist Award in the Sleuth category. She’s a member of Sisters in Crime. 

She's the author of the Cold Creek Cozy Mysteries (where Sheridan started sleuthing), the Sheridan Hendley Mysteries, the Stacie Maroni Mysteries, and the Izzie Di Sante Mysteries. She co-authors the Hannah and Tamar Mysteries with Cassidy Salem.

Christa supports animal rescue and efforts to help others. When not reading or writing, Christa enjoys travel, playing with her dog, and spending time with her three granddaughters.

Connect with Christa here:

RAFFLECOPTER - October Giveaway! (ends 10/22)


Saturday, September 30, 2023

Book Review: DIVINE RETRIBUTION (Divine Devils #4) By R Weir

About the Book:

After the murder of a woman he cared for, his world shattered and in turmoil, Hunter Divine has gone dark, living life off the grid. Fighting the internal demons that want to drag him into the mire, Hunter quietly begins a search for answers about his childhood. A mother he loved, who died too young, and the rolling stone father who left Hunter bitter and alone.

As Hunter digs deep, he learns secrets with ties to a woman in a powerful organization, who claims to be his mother. When assassins show up with orders to kill the other members of The Divine Devils, Hunter is forced to make a choice. Either ally with this evil woman or join his friends in the great beyond. A resolution he must find on his own, with the knowledge, death awaits him with every move he makes. The search down a lethal road for salvation and Divine Retribution. 

Hunter Divine: Willing to move heaven and hell in this riveting final chapter. 

Review 

Hunter's Divine Devils are disbanded and he's hiding out trying to find the link to the killer and some woman who claims she is his rightful mother. He avoids his previous problems with alcohol and drugs, channeling all his energy into his mission. Although disbanded, each member of the group starts poking around themselves and connecting as they gather information. 

As the pieces come together, the tension builds and the pace quickens. Well-written, there are the characters to like, as well as villains, including the one who wants all the Divine Devils dead and Hunter working for her. Hard to put down with many dead or injured, yet an effective ending. 

Although this is the fourth in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. That said, it's always best to start at the beginning of a series, rather than the end. I'd highly recommend this book (and the series) for those who don't mind graphic scenes and who enjoy suspense, action, and a fast pace. I'm sorry the series is ending.

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in the hopes that I would post an honest review. This has not affected the content of my review in any way. 

The Divine Devils 
Fallen Star 
Sold Souls 

About the Author 

Award-winning author R Weir lives in the Mile-High City with his family, where the Rocky Mountain High isn't always achieved with an herbal substance. When not glued to the computer, he relaxes by enjoying the outdoors and traveling in his motorhome. 

His writing delves into genres with gritty investigators exploring mystery, crime, suspense, and thrills, with involved plots and unexpected twists. Featuring former US Marshal Hunter Divine, a dire, determined man searching for salvation in his broken life. While private eye Jarvis Mann is tough and snarky, with as many faults as virtues. Characters exhibiting traces of his sense of humor, though he’s not nearly as tough and fearless. Though no evil stands a chance against his written word! 

Be sure visit R Weir’s author webpage for information about new releases, to sign-up for his newsletter and receive a free eBook. Also reach out on Facebook, Twitter, or via email; for he loves to hear and interact with readers. 


Sunday, September 24, 2023

Spotlight: READING, WRITING AND MURDER (Chocolate Martini Sisters Mystery Book 2) by Brenda Whiteside and Joyce Proell


About the Book 

When sparks fly between the keynote speaker and her timid assistant over a handsome mystery author, the subtitle on this anticipated tranquil weekend spells drama. If a heated love triangle, bruised egos, and betrayal aren’t enough to upset the atmosphere, the conference banquet erupts into a drunken brawl and sends the place spinning. After a body is discovered, Nic and Em do what they do best—snoop—and become embroiled in a mystery that jumps off the pages of a true-crime bestseller. 

With more than enough suspects and little time, the amateur sleuths have their hands full finding the killer. But can the competitive Chocolate Martini Sisters solve the crime before the prickly chief detective does, or will a murderer outwit them all? With more than enough suspects and little time, the amateur sleuths have their hands full finding the killer. 

Buy Links


About the Authors 

Joyce Proell is the award-winning author of Amaryllis, Eliza and the Cady Delafield mysteries: A Deadly Truth, A Burning Truth and A Wicked Truth. Along with her husband and little dog, Nellie, she lives in Minnesota in her very own little house on the prairie. She loves to hear from readers. 



Brenda Whiteside is the award-winning author of romantic suspense, romance, and cozy mystery. After living in six states and two countries—so far—she and her husband have settled in Central Arizona. They admit to being gypsies at heart and won't discount the possibility of another move. They share their home with a rescue dog named Amigo. While FDW fishes, Brenda writes. 
Visit Brenda at: 





Friday, September 22, 2023

Book Review: THE LILLIPUT BAR MYSTERY - A Lady Locksmith Mystery by Edna Curry

About the Book 

Cassie Jenning’s job as a small-town locksmith often puts her in odd and scary situations. In this story, she was behind the Lilliput Bar when the owner was shot. Now Sheriff Ben would like nothing better than to solve the case quickly by arresting her. Homicide Detective Chance Martin burned out on violence in Minneapolis, so took a small town job thinking he’d find peace. Instead, he’s in charge of solving this murder. He meets Cassie and can’t believe she’s involved. But can he prove it? 

Review 

Like most cozy mysteries, Cassie Jennings lives in a small town, with many secrets. Cassie's a locksmith and called out at all hours when someone finds themselves in trouble. That night she's called and when she responds, she sees a truck drive away and doesn't think much of it until she finds the bar owner dead. The local Sheriff doesn't have any experience and enlists the help Chance Martin. Chance was a city detective and Sheriff Ben hopes he can tie up the murder quickly. Things get complicated with Chance and Cassie attracted to each other. As they both search for the killer, the attraction gets stronger and they uncover secrets.

Cassie is a likable and believable character with a unique occupation, and not about to take the fall for the murder. Chance is also likable though not pleased to be drawn into the work he thought he'd left behind. The story is well-plotted with enough action to keep me reading. There's most of the elements of a cozy mystery, including family drama and well-placed humor. Some may have issues with the change in point of view from Cassie to the police. This is the first in the Lady Locksmith Mysteries with more to come for Cassie and Chance.


Body in the Antique Trunk Book 2 
The Missing Banker Book3 
Girl Who Cried Wolf -Book 4 
Robbery at the Lilliput Bar -a short story 

About the Author 

Edna Curry is married and lives in central Minnesota. She often sets her novels there among the lakes, evergreens and river valleys. She especially enjoys the Dalles area of the St.Croix Valley, gateway to the Wild River, which draws many tourists who give her story ideas. Besides non-fiction articles, she writes mystery, romance and romantic suspense novels. She also does editing and proofreading as Fern Valentine.  
Visit her webpageAmazon author page, Facebook, TwitterBookbub.





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