BLOG

Posted in Cozy Mystery, Spotlight

Dewey Decimated, A Haunted Library Mystery by Allison Brook

Posted on by Debbie


Dewey Decimated (A Haunted Library Mystery)
by Allison Brook

About Dewey Decimated


Dewey Decimated (A Haunted Library Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
6th in Series
Setting – Connecticut
Crooked Lane Books (September 6, 2022)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 336 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639100903
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1639100903
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09N6M1SNP

Librarian Carrie Singleton is back on the case, alongside library ghost Evelyn, in the sixth installment of Agatha Award nominee Allison Brook’s Haunted Library mysteries.

Carrie Singleton is just off a hot string of murder cases centered around the spooky local library in Clover Ridge, Connecticut. She could really use a break—but no such luck, as she; Smoky Joe, the resident cat; and Evelyn, the library’s ghost, are drawn into another tantalizing whodunit.

First, a dead body is found in the basement of the building attached to the library, and it turns out to be Carrie’s fiancé’s Uncle Alec, who Dylan hasn’t seen in years. But Alec has no intention of truly checking out, and his ghost makes itself at home in the library, greatly upsetting the patrons. Carrie and Evelyn work hard to keep Alec out of sight, but what was he doing in Clover Ridge to begin with? And why was he killed?

Meanwhile, the town council, of which Carrie is also a member, is embroiled in a hot-headed debate over the fate of the Seabrook Preserve, a lovely and valuable piece of property that runs along Long Island Sound. Turn it into an upscale park? Sell it to a condo developer? Or keep it as protected land?

As the dispute rages, there’s another murder, this time involving a council member. Could the two murders be connected? And could Carrie be next on the hit list?

About Allison Brook

A former Spanish teacher, Marilyn Levinson writes mysteries, romantic suspense, and novels for kids. Her books have received many accolades. As Allison Brook, she writes the Haunted Library series. DEATH OVERDUE, the first in the series, was an Agatha nominee for Best Contemporary Novel in 2018. Other mysteries include the Golden Age of Mystery Book Club series and the Twin Lakes series.

Her juvenile novel, Rufus and Magic Run Amok, was an International Reading Association-Children’s Book Council Children’s Choice. And Don’t Bring Jeremy was a nominee for six state awards.

Marilyn lives on Long Island, where many of her books take place. She loves traveling, reading, doing crossword puzzles and Sudoku, and chatting on FaceTime with her grandkids.

Author Links

Website: http://www.marilynlevinson.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marilyn.levinson.10?ref=ts&fref=ts
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/161602.Marilyn_Levinson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarilynLevinson
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/marilyn-levinson

Purchase links:

Amazon Penguin Random House B&N Kobo Google Play

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

September 6 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

September 6 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

September 6 – The Book Diva’s Reads – SPOTLIGHT

September 7 – Baroness Book Trove – REVIEW

September 7 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

September 7 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

September 8 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

September 8 – Angel’s Guilty Pleasures – SPOTLIGHT

September 8 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT

September 9 – View from the Birdhouse – REVIEW

September 9 – Read Your Writes Book Reviews – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

September 9 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW

September 10 – eBook Addicts – REVIEW

September 10 – I’m All About Books – SPOTLIGHT

September 10 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog – SPOTLIGHT

September 11 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

September 11 – Nadaness In Motion – REVIEW

September 12 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW

September 12 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW

September 12 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

September 13 – Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers – SPOTLIGHT

September 13 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

September 14 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

September 14 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

September 15 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW

September 15 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

September 15 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!

Posted in Guest Post, Reading

Guest Post: 6 Creative Ways to Encourage Your Kids to Start Reading by Samantha Higgins

Posted on by Debbie

6 Creative Ways to Encourage Your Kids to Start Reading

by Samantha Higgins

If you are interested in developing your child’s literacy skills, you may want to consider creative ways they will enjoy reading. Children need various opportunities to practice and enjoy their newfound talent to develop strong reading skills and a love for reading.

Some parents prefer explicit teaching methods, while others believe that allowing kids to explore independently is the best way to encourage them. Whatever method you believe is best for your child, these six strategies should help increase their excitement for books. Discussed below are some creative ways to encourage the kids to start reading.

1. Use Books You Love

When it comes to encouraging your child to develop a love for reading, nothing is more important than the books you choose to read with them. The best way to introduce children to reading is through using books you love.

While it’s always a good idea for parents and teachers alike to familiarize themselves with excellent children’s literature, it’s vital that you also make sure that what you’re reading with your young reader is age-appropriate. Your child will learn to love reading if you let them choose their books.

2. Begin a Reading Challenge

Another fun way to get kids excited about reading is by creating a challenge. Let them create a list of their favorite books and pick a book from that list to read with them each day. After reading the book, ask your child about their favorite part or character.

Did they like it when so-and-so got in trouble? Did they think this character was funny? Consider having your child rate their book from one to five stars after each reading session. You may also reward them with a small reward for their effort, like a piece of candy or some extra time to play video games.

3. Check a Book Before You Purchase It

When purchasing books for your child, remember to check them out in bookstores or borrow them from the library before you purchase. Some children find it difficult to read books that are too advanced for them, so by finding out how much your child can read and comparing it with the age range of their book, you can make sure they’ll be able to manage their reading level.

Also, check whether it is on the children’s banned books list. Books may get banned for various reasons, like cursing and inappropriate illustrations. Others may have pictures that may be violent, frightening, or too explicit. Purchasing an interesting book for your child is one of the best ways to encourage your child to read.

4. Make Reading Fun

The best way to ensure your child will want to read is by having fun with it. Make reading a game and let them pick the game they will participate in while they are doing it. Make a game out of reading a book by giving your child a prize each time they finish one. If you have several children, you can have them play a game where they compete to get the most books read during their free time.

Another great way to make reading more fun is by making up stories together. If your child has a book about pirates, you can make up a story about the pirate who stole a treasure map from another pirate. This will be far more fun than the book and encourage your child to read more.

5. Read With Them

When initiating reading time, start small by simply reading aloud with your child every night before bedtime. Reading aloud with your child every night is a great way to show them how much you love reading.

The more you read to your child, the more interested they will be in reading. You’ll also find that this can help children fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, as reading releases feel-good hormones into the body while they read.

6. Let Them Read Anywhere

Another great way to encourage your kids to read more is by letting them carry a book around with them wherever they go. If they like to play in the sandbox, let them read in the sandbox.

If they like to go out for a walk, let them carry a book with them and read it while you’re walking. This will encourage your child to read, play outside more often, and get fresh air. Look for small books that fit in their pockets and are light enough to carry around.

Conclusion

To encourage children to read, you’ll want to pick a series of books they will love. Use these tips to create an environment that allows your child to enjoy reading as much as possible.

Samantha Higgins is a professional writer with a passion for research, observation, and innovation. She is nurturing a growing family of twin boys in Portland, Oregon with her husband. She loves kayaking and reading creative non-fiction.

Posted in Cats, New Releases, Paranormal, Spotlight

Ghost Cats 2 by Dusty Rainbolt Releases Today

Posted on by Debbie

My friend and fellow Cat Writers’ Association member, Dusty Rainbolt, has published Ghost Cats 2, her second book about encounters with feline spirits. Check out these true tales of ghostly visitations that are less scary and more heartwarming.

Blurb and Endorsements:

Cats are notorious for being unable to make up their minds. And the phantom felines in Ghost Cats 2: More Afterlife Encounters with Feline Spirits prove that, whether or not they have a heartbeat, cats are always on the wrong side of the door—even the Pearly Gates. Award-winning journalist Dusty Rainbolt has assembled a collection of eyewitness accounts that provide haunting yet entertaining hints about our pets’ afterlife destiny—as well as our own. Rainbolt’s narratives of things-that-headbump-in-the-night will have you laughing and crying. You’ll feel comfort as well as the occasional chill creep up your spine as you enjoy chapters on:

  • GUARDIAN ANGELS who stand as dedicated protectors of their chosen humans
  • FELINE HARBINGERS warning of impending tragedy
  • Joyful but often brief appearances in FAMILY REUNIONS
  • MANY HAPPY RETURNS that highlights reincarnation homecomings
  • And mystified homeowners scratching their heads because that’s NOT MY GHOST CAT

According to her answering machine Dusty Rainbolt, is an award-winning cat behavior author, veterinary journalist, feline behavior consultant and Fear Free Certified Professional. She has authored thousands of articles and columns, and 14 nonfiction books and novels including the widely acclaimed Kittens for Dummies. She’s a past president of the Cat Writers’ Association, three-time recipient of the Friskies Writer of the Year Award. Her books, columns and articles have been honored with more than 65 writing awards. In 2008 Rainbolt’s first volume about feline phantoms Ghost Cats: Human Encounters with Feline Spirits was awarded the coveted Muse Medallion for Excellence from the Cat Writers’ Association. The Muse is the prestigious organization’s version of the Pulitzer Prize.

Ghost Cats 2 is the perfect read (or gift) for anyone who loves cats or struggles with the death of a pet, and for anyone who wants to curl up with tales of transcendental tabbies. Order copies of this family-friendly book for yourself or loved ones who have had to say goodbye to their furry friend.

CELEBRITY PRAISE FOR GHOST CATS 2: MORE AFTERLIFE ENCOUNTERS WITH FELINE SPIRITS

“Well-written, thoughtful and insightful. This book provides further understanding of our furry feline friends both in the physical and spirit form.” —Fate Magazine

“Sometimes funny, sometimes chilling. Always comforting visitations of our cats from beyond the grave.” —Carole Nelson Douglas, Midnight Louie mystery series

“A fascinating book whether you’re a skeptic or a believer.” —Marty Becker, America’s Veterinarian

“This book has a feline phantom for everyone.” —Catster magazine

“The perfect gift for anyone who has loved and lost a cat.” —Clea Simon, A Cat on the Case

“Funny and terrifying. A completely satisfying insight into the magnitude of the human-feline bond.” —Mollie Hunt, Crazy Cat Lady mystery series.

“A must read!” —Arden Moore, The Cat Behavior Answer Book

“A thoroughly captivating read that leaves one wanting a third book.” —Andrea Dorn, award-winning writer

“Ghost Cats 2 is comfort soup for all cat owners who miss a special feline. Insightful and positive, it entertains and assures the reader that one day they will all meet again.” —Heike Hagenguth, Cat Writers’ Association, Cairo, Egypt

“Made a believer out of me.” —Marci Kladnik, past president, Cat Writers’ Association

“Cat lovers will find this a purr-fect read that will give hope that they, too, may one day experience a visit from their own lost pets.” —Debbie De Louise, Cobble Cove cozy mystery series

View the book trailer here: https://youtu.be/nDAY59MTZjs

Pick up your copy of this amazing book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Cats-Afterlife-Encounters-Spirits/dp/1946086088/

Posted in pets, Special Days

Free Book for Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day

Posted on by Debbie
Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day Logo designed by Deb Barnes

Today, August 28, is a very special day. Deb Barnes, my friend and the president of the Cat Writers’ Association, created it to honor her Ragdoll cat, Mr. Jazz, after he crossed the bridge and for others to honor their beloved pets who are no longer with them.

Here’s an article that explains what this day is all about. I’ve also included some photos of my cats, Holly, Floppy, Oliver, and Stripey who are on the bridge and my book, Cloudy Rainbow, that features my cat, Floppy who I wrote it about after he passed away, is free today only. Pick up a copy here: mybook.to/CR2

https://www.newswire.com/press-release/august-28-rainbow-bridge-remembrance-day-created-to-honor

Holly 1995-2003

Floppy 1992-2007

Pick up a free copy of Cloudy Rainbow (mybook.to/CR2), my paranormal romance that was written when I lost my Floppy and who is featured as a character in it.

 

You may share your remembrance of your beloved pets on the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1088295085405409

Posted in Reviews

Review for The Favor by Nicci French

Posted on by Debbie

*Note: This book was an advanced reader’s copy from Net Galley. It will be published on October 18, 2022, and is available for order on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Favor-Novel-Nicci-French-ebook/dp/B09QMGRD8F

****4-stars

What would you do if someone you dated in high school turned up out of the blue ten years later and asked you to do them a favor? That’s the premise of The Favor by Nicci French.

Jude was in love with Liam as a teenager. He was her first lover. But when they are involved in a car accident together with some friends, their relationship comes to an end. Liam disappears from Jude’s life. She goes on to medical school and becomes a doctor. One day, Liam visits the hospital and tells her he needs her help with a favor but won’t tell her what the favor entails except that she needs to meet him at a secluded cabin that weekend. He requests that she not tell anyone including her fiancee.

While Jude is hesitant to help, she feels bad for Liam because her life seems to have gone more smoothly than his has. But the truth is that she’s kept a lie from her family and fiancee for a decade. The lie involves the accident in which Liam was blamed for drunk driving.

When Jude arrives at the cabin, she waits for Liam who is scheduled to meet her there by train. He never shows up. She later discovers the reason for his absence. Liam was murdered miles away, and the police question Jude’s story about the favor she was asked by a man she hadn’t seen in ten years.

Jude’s life then falls apart as she is mentioned in the news, and her fiancee leaves her because he believes she was still seeing Liam. As the story progresses, we learn some things about Liam and his family when Jude meets his wife, young son, brother, and other occupants of the house where he lived.

The mystery of Liam’s murder is eventually solved with a twist. If you like psychological thrillers, you will enjoy this book.

Posted in Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery, Interview, Reviews

Interview, Blog Tour, and Review for A Dark and Stormy Tea by Laura Childs

Posted on by Debbie

It’s a pleasure to have Laura Childs, New York Times Bestselling Author of A Dark and Stormy Tea, here on Ruff Drafts,

Welcome, Laura. How long have you been published? What titles and/or series have you published and with which publisher?

For the last 21 years I’ve been writing 4 different series that are all published by Berkley Prime Crime, a division of Penguin Random House. These include the Tea Shop Mysteries, New Orleans Scrapbooking Mysteries, Cackleberry Club Mysteries, and the Afton Tangler Thriller series. All together it comes to a total of 52 books with 3 more written and waiting to be published.

That’s amazing. Congratulations on such a prolific career.

Tell us a little about your four different series.

My most popular series is the Tea Shop Mysteries. These books all feature tea maven Theodosia Browning who runs the Indigo Tea Shop in Charleston, SC and has a tea shop dog named Earl Grey. My Scrapbook Mysteries are a little edgier because they’re set in New Orleans. They feature Carmela Bertrand, an artsy scrapbook shop owner, along with her voodoo shop-owning BFA Ava. The Cackleberry Club Mysteries are set in a cute little Midwestern café and feature three women who’ve all lost their husbands – one through death, one through Alzheimer’s, and one whose husband ran off with the floozy waitress at the VFW with the hot pink extensions in her hair. My fourth series is the Afton Tangler Thrillers. Afton is a crime victim’s advocate who’s also a detective wanna-be and manages to insert herself in high profile cases.

They all sound wonderful. I’m sorry to admit that the only book I’ve read of yours so far is your latest Tea Shop mystery, A Dark and Stormy Tea, that I’ve reviewed below. I absolutely loved it.

What’s the date of your upcoming release and what’s your current work-in-progress?

My new release is A DARK AND STORMY TEA that was released on August 9th. I also have LEMON CURD KILLER and HONEY DROP DEAD coming out next year. Works in progress include MURDER IN THE TEA LEAVES and CADMIUM RED DEAD.

After reading A Dark and Stormy Tea, I hope to read another in that series and also try out your other series.

Describe your goals as a writer.

My goal is to always (always!) entertain my readers. That’s why I jumpstart every book – boom! – with a huge murder right there in the first chapter. Then I drop my main character smack dab in the middle of the chaos and give them a life and death reason to get involved and help track down the killer.

Sounds like a great way to get readers hooked.

What type of readers do you attract? Who’s most interested in reading your books?

My three cozy series certainly appeal to a cozy reader, but I’ve had readers who claimed to be strict thriller fans or true crime fans, comment that they actually enjoyed my books. You see? I pulled them over from the dark side!

Lol. After reading your latest book, I can see why.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Three things. Read as much as you can in your genre because you’ll start to pick up all sorts of little tricks and tactics from other authors. Second, be sure you know the difference between a story idea and an actual plot (outlining will help you figure this out). And, finally, please don’t start your book with all sorts of back story. Drop your reader right into the action, then fill in the facts and figures later.

Excellent advice.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

Actually, I was very lucky. Early on, a friend introduced me to the great Mary Higgins Clark and she (God bless her) helped me get started. She even gave me her agent!

Wow! I wish I could get that lucky – lol. But although that was a lucky way to get started, I’m sure your talent took it from there.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I serve on the boards of a couple of non-profit organizations and enjoy travel, art, and investing.

Very nice.

What do you like most – and least – about being an author?

My favorite thing is getting out and meeting my readers. A few weeks ago I did a talk for a book club of 300 – what fun! My least favorite thing is working alone – when I was CEO of my marketing firm I loved the collaborative creative process. So I really do miss that aspect.

I think most writers enjoy interacting with readers and also don’t always enjoy the solitary aspect of writing.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

The best thing is – there are no rules! Sure, cozies are supposed to be a kinder, gentler type of mystery, but that doesn’t mean you can’t push the envelope and make your mystery as exciting as possible. I’ve kicked off my books with kidnappings, exploding floats, hangings, art thefts, yacht races, jewelry heists, poisonings, and a strangling in a creepy cemetery – and ended them with killer drones, food truck chases, alligators, hidden tunnels, ghosts and lots more. You just need to flip the script a bit.

I agree that writing cozies can be fun if you make it that way. Finishing the second book of my new Buttercup Bend series, I included a seventies costume dance party, a club of parrot lovers, and mysterious notes containing Shakespeare quotes.

Can you share a short synopsis of your new release, A DARK AND STORMY TEA?

Love to. Here it is:

Tea shop entrepreneur Theodosia Browning dashes down Charleston’s famed Gateway Walk as she attempts to outrun an oncoming storm. But lighting, thunder, and pelting rain soon overtake her, and the normally picturesque ramble of hedges, statuary, and flowers becomes a twisted labyrinth of fog and driving rain. As Theodosia approaches St. Philips Cemetery, she sees two figures locked in a strange embrace. Wiping rain from her eyes, Theodosia realizes she’s just witnessed a brutal murder and sees a dark hooded figure slip away into the fog.

In the throes of alerting police, Theodosia recognizes the victim – it’s the daughter of her friend, Lois, who owns the Antiquarian Bookshop next door to her own Indigo Tea Shop. Even though this appears to be the work of a serial killer that’s been stalking the back alleys of Charleston, Lois begs Theodosia for help. Against the advice of her boyfriend, Detective Pete Riley, and the sage words of Drayton, her tea sommelier, amateur sleuth Theodosia launches her own shadow investigation. And quickly discovers that suspects abound with the dead girl’s boyfriend, nefarious real estate developer, private security man, bumbling reporter, and her own neighbor who’s writing a true crime book and searching for a big ending. Between a raging storm, real-life murder investigation, and staging her Murder Mystery Tea at Chillingham Manor, Theodosia suddenly worries that she might be the next victim!

Wonderful! I truly enjoyed reading it.

Is there anything you’d like our readers to know about you or your books?

Yup. These aren’t your typical cozies. In fact, I coined the term thrillzies to describe them – because they’re a hybrid cozy that moves at the pace of a thriller. Oh, and when I mention a wonderful scone or tea sandwich in my books, I always include the recipe.

Interesting, and your recipes certainly sound delicious.

Thank you so much for the interview, Laura. I’ve included your bio below along with your blog tour and my 5-star review of your book.

Laura Childs Bio:

Laura Childs is the author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. All have been on the New York Times, USA Today, and Publisher’s Weekly bestseller lists. Recently, Book Riot named her mysteries to their list of “25 of the All Time Best Cozy Mystery Series.” In her previous life Laura was CEO of her own marketing firm, authored several screenplays, and produced a reality TV show. She is married to Dr. Bob, a professor of Chinese art history, and has a Chinese Shar-Pei named Lotus.

Find out more at laurachilds.com or become a Friend on Facebook at Laura Childs Author

A Dark and Stormy Tea (A Tea Shop Mystery)
by Laura Childs

About A Dark and Stormy Tea


A Dark and Stormy Tea (A Tea Shop Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
24th in Series
Berkley (August 9, 2022)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0593200896
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0593200896
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09LH6VG4P

A possible serial killer on the loose sends tea maven Theodosia Browning into a whirlwind of investigation in this latest installment of the New York Times bestselling series.

It was a dark and stormy night, but that was the least of Theodosia Browning’s troubles. As she approaches St. Philips Graveyard, Theodosia sees two figures locked in a strange embrace. Wiping rain from her eyes, Theodosia realizes she has just witnessed a brutal murder and sees a dark-hooded figure slip away into the fog.

In the throes of alerting police, Theodosia recognizes the victim—it is the daughter of her friend, Lois, who owns the Antiquarian Bookshop next door to her own Indigo Tea Shop.

Even though this appears to be the work of a serial killer who is stalking the back alleys of Charleston, Lois begs Theodosia for help. Against the advice of her boyfriend, Detective Pete Riley, and the sage words of Drayton, her tea sommelier, amateur-sleuth Theodosia launches her own shadow investigation. And quickly discovers that suspects abound with the dead girl’s boyfriend, nefarious real estate developer, private-security man, bumbling reporter, and her own neighbor who is writing a true-crime book and searching for a big ending.

INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES AND TEA TIME TIPS!

My Review of A Dark and Stormy Tea

*****5-stars

This is the first mystery I’ve read by Laura Childs, and I can’t believe what I’ve missed. She has several series. This one, the Tea Shop Mysteries, takes place in Charleston, South Carolina and features Theodosia Browning who owns the Indigo Tea Shop and has a knack for solving crimes as well as brewing tea.

In A Dark and Stormy Tea, the 24th Tea Shop Mystery, Theodosia witnesses the murder of a bookstore owner’s daughter in a cemetery but, because of the rain, she was unable to see the face of the killer. Could he be Fogheel Jack, the name given to a murderer who has strangled women in the past in foggy weather?

The victim’s mother, a friend of Theodosia, asks for her help catching the killer. Against her Detective boyfriend’s wishes and despite her tea sommelier, Drayton’s discouragement, Theo pursues her own investigation and is nearly killed after a successful mystery tea at her shop.

I found this a charming cozy. The characters and atmosphere were great, and there was an interesting twist. A big plus are the recipes at the end of the book for tea and other yummy goodies. You will devour this story. Highly recommended.

About Laura Childs

Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fundraising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.

Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:

The Tea Shop Mysteries – set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She’s also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn’t rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.

The Scrapbooking Mysteries – a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans’ spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!

The Cackleberry Club Mysteries – set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe’s undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.

Laura’s Links: Website – Facebook

Purchase Links
Amazon – B&N – Kobo – IndieBound

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

August 8 – Angel’s Guilty Pleasures – SPOTLIGHT

August 8 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

August 9 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW

August 9 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW

August 9 – I’m All About Books – SPOTLIGHT

August 10 – The Book Diva’s Reads – SPOTLIGHT

August 10 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

August 11 – Valerie’s Musings – REVIEW

August 11 – The Book’s the Thing – SPOTLIGHT

August 12 – eBook Addicts – SPOTLIGHT

August 12 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW

August 13 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog – SPOTLIGHT

August 13 – Baroness Book Trove – REVIEW

August 14 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

August 14 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 15 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

August 15 – Diane Reviews Books – GUEST POST

August 16 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 16 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

August 17 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

August 17 – I Read What You Write – SPOTLIGHT

August 18 – Reading Is My SuperPower – GUEST POST

August 18 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

August 19 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

August 20 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 20 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW

August 21 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 21 – Girl with Pen – SPOTLIGHT

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!;

Posted in Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery, Spotlight

Spotlight and Blog Tour for Lethal Legacies, A Washington Whodunit, by Colleen Shogan

Posted on by Debbie


Lethal Legacies (A Washington Whodunit)
by Colleen Shogan

About Lethal Legacies


Lethal Legacies (A Washington Whodunit)
Cozy Mystery
8th in Series
Camel Press (August 9, 2022)
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 236 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1684920302
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1684920303
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09VMPZCC4

It’s springtime in Washington, D.C. and congressional staffer Kit Marshall has more on her plate than she can handle. With her boss campaigning for an open U.S. Senate seat, Kit is left to run the office in her absence and manage a new week long American history extravaganza filled with high-profile events, lectures, and receptions.

When the Director of the Capitol Visitor’s Center ends up dead, Kit springs into action to clear a longtime friend, who becomes the prime suspect in the murder. With her best pal Meg pressuring her to solve the mystery quickly, Kit must figure out how to navigate her closest relationships while keeping an eye out for the diabolical killer.

The investigation takes Kit across the city to famous locations, including Georgetown University, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the White House.

When the killer strikes a second time, the pressure to solve the crimes intensifies. Has our favorite Capitol Hill sleuth finally met her match? In the end, Kit learns the hard way that history tends to repeat itself, often with deadly consequences.

About Colleen J. Shogan

Colleen J. Shogan has been reading mysteries since the age of six. A political scientist by training, Colleen has taught American politics at several universities and previously worked on Capitol Hill as a legislative staffer in the United States Senate and as a senior executive at the Library of Congress. She is currently the Senior Vice President of the White House Historical Association.

Colleen is a member of Sisters in Crime. “Stabbing in the Senate” was awarded the Next Generation Indie prize for Best Mystery in 2016. “Homicide in the House” was a 2017 finalist for the RONE Award for Best Mystery. “Calamity at the Continental Club” was a 2018 finalist in the “best cozy mystery” at Killer Nashville. “Larceny at the Library” won the 2021 IPPY bronze medal for mystery. She lives in Arlington, Virginia with her husband Rob and their beagle mutt Conan.

Author Links

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/washingtonwhodunit/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/cshogan276

Website – www.colleenshogan.com

GoodReads – www.goodreads.com/cshogan276

Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N

Praise for the Series

“The mystery is perplexing—for Kit and company, and for me—and well done. I was impressed by the complexity of the murder plot. I enjoyed the political theme, and all the details about lobbyists.” —Jane Reads

“To someone who has mastered that uniquely Washington skill of bobbling two cell phones and a glass of wine without spilling a drop, solving a murder is practically child’s play.” —HillRag

“A solid choice for political junkies and readers of ­Maggie ­Sefton, Fred Hunter, and Mike Lawson.” —Library Journal

“The fourth volume in author Colleen J. Shogan’s simply outstanding ‘Washington Whodunit’ series, K Street Killing is a consistently entertaining read with many an unexpected twist and turn by a true master of the genre.” —Midwest Book Review

“Shogan does a good job depicting the creaky, squeaky wheels of government, and Marshall plays politics and sleuth with equal dexterity in this capital Capitol Hill mystery.” —Publishers Weekly

“Loads of inside scoop about the workings of Senate offices—complete with all the gossiping, back-stabbing, and procedural maneuvering—plus an appealing young sleuth, sprightly pacing, and an edge-of-your-seat showdown on the Hart-Dirksen underground train.” —Literary Hill

“An excellent whodunit…. I was really impressed with this very smart story. The author is a former Senate staffer so she is writing what she knows, less the murder, I hope.” —Escape with Dollycas Into a Good Book

“Readers who enjoy amateur sleuth mysteries written in the style of Agatha Christie will enjoy this promising debut mystery.” —The Washington Independent Review of Books

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

August 8 – Novels Alive – SPOTLIGHT

August 8 – My Reading Journeys – SPOTLIGHT

August 9 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

August 9 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 10 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW, GUEST POST

August 10 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT

August 11 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog – SPOTLIGHT

August 12 – Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic – GUEST POST

August 12 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 13 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

August 14 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

August 15 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 16 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

August 17 – Girl with Pen – SPOTLIGHT

August 17 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

August 18 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

August 18 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

August 19 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

August 19 – Diane Reviews Books – GUEST POST

August 20 – The Mystery of Writing – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

August 21 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

August 21 – BookishKelly2020 – SPOTLIGHT

August 21 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!

Posted in Reviews

Review for Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister

Posted on by Debbie

*Note: This book was an advanced reader’s copy from Net Galley. It was published on August 2, 2022, and is available for order on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Wrong-Place-Time-Novel-ebook/dp/B09NW4FN2R/

*****5-stars

Jen is a mama bear. She lives to protect her son, Todd. So when she witnesses him killing a strange man, she rightly freaks. But when she wakes up a day before it happens, she freaks even more. With a spin on Ground Hog’s Day, she continues to go back in time a day, several days, a month, even a year. It all seems to be random until she consults with a friend who has studied time travel and comes to the conclusion that the days she’s visiting aren’t random at all. They’re connected to the event she witnessed of her son killing a man named Joseph Jones. But where are they leading her, and what must she learn from this strange experience?

As Jen travels back in time, she learns more about her son, husband, and the man called Joseph Jones. More importantly, she faces her fears of not having been the best mother to Todd which believes has resulted in his becoming a killer. She also discovers some things about her husband that make her question their entire relationship.

Without giving spoilers, I have to say that the twists in this book were well done, even though I guessed two out of three. This was more than a time-travel story. It was a relationship and family story. Do you ever wonder what you’ve missed over the years that you would see differently if viewing them from your current perspective? There are some great points made here. You will find this book hard to put down.

Posted in Reviews

Review for A Dark and Stormy Tea, A Tea Shop Mystery by Laura Childs

Posted on by Debbie

*Note: This book was an advanced reader’s copy from Net Galley. It was published on August 9, 2022, and is available for order on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09LH6VG4P

*****5-stars

This is the first mystery I’ve read by Laura Childs, and I can’t believe what I’ve missed. She has several series. This one, the Tea Shop Mysteries, takes place in Charleston, South Carolina and features Theodosia Browning who owns the Indigo Tea Shop and has a knack for solving crimes as well as brewing tea.

In A Dark and Stormy Tea, the 24th Tea Shop Mystery, Theodosia witnesses the murder of a bookstore owner’s daughter in a cemetery but, because of the rain, she was unable to see the face of the killer. Could he be Fogheel Jack, the name given to a murderer who has strangled women in the past in foggy weather?

The victim’s mother, a friend of Theodosia, asks for her help catching the killer. Against her Detective boyfriend’s wishes and despite her tea sommelier, Drayton’s discouragement, she pursues her own investigation and is nearly killed after a successful mystery tea at her shop.

I found this a charming cozy. The characters and atmosphere were great, and there was an interesting twist. A big plus are the recipes at the end of the book for tea and other yummy goodies. You will devour this story. Highly recommended.

Posted in Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery, Spotlight

Spotlight and Blog Tour for Inheriting Murder: the first Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery by Jamie Rutland Gillespie

Posted on by Debbie


Inheriting Murder: A Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery
by Jamie Rutland Gillespie

About Inheriting Murder


Inheriting Murder: A Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Tennessee
Independently Published (May 1, 2022)
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 287 pages
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8814800398
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09Z9889D4

When Landry Burke’s favorite Aunt Tildie passes away, Landry inherits the entire estate. It includes a five story apartment building named Magnolia Place, as well as a bookstore across the street named Jasmine Bloom Books, both located in Bobwhite Mountain, Tennessee.

Landry packs up and leaves Bent Branch, SC for the hills of Tennessee. On her very first day there, she and her aunt’s attorney, Adam Wilcox, find the body of one of Magnolia Place’s employees. Between her panic attacks, anxiety and trying to adjust to her new surroundings, Landry wants this murder solved and fast.

Sheriff Wyatt Collins and his deputies are on the case. Now, if they can just keep Landry from trying to help and causing danger to herself.

And Jasmine Bloom’s manager, and late Aunt Tildie’s best friend, Ms. Millie, is convinced that Landry is trying to get her killed because of all the zany situations they find themselves in.

Take a visit to Bobwhite Mountain and find out what all of the fuss is about.

About Jamie Rutland Gillespie

Jamie Rutland Gillespie was born and raised in a tiny, country town in South Carolina. At the age of 18, she moved to a slightly larger town in the same state and still lives there. She spent much of her youth visiting the beaches of the low country and taking trips to the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. The mountains were always her “happy place” and she still visits every chance she gets.

Jamie has always loved to read; she got her library card at the small library of her hometown at the young age of 6. She has a vivid imagination and has always made-up stories of places, people and situations that only exist in her head.

She currently lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughter and 17-year-old Yorkie Pom, who is her baby and shadow. She loves college football and has been a South Carolina Gamecock fan since birth. She also loves MLB and has been a Braves fan since she was a little girl, watching the games and going to games with her Dad. She is still an avid reader and enjoys writing, crossword puzzles, baking, and spending time with her family.

Author Links

Facebook – Instagram – Amazon – Twitter – BookBub –

Purchase Link – Amazon

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

August 1 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

August 1 – Christa Reads and Writes – SPOTLIGHT

August 2 – Moonlight Rendezvous – REVIEW

August 2 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

August 3 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

August 3 – I Read What You Write – SPOTLIGHT

August 4 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – RECIPE POST

August 4 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

August 5 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog – SPOTLIGHT

August 5 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 6 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 7 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

August 8 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 8 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

August 9 – Novels Alive – RECIPE POST

August 10 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

August 10 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

August 11 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

August 12 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

August 13 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW

August 13 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

August 14 – BookishKelly2020 – SPOTLIGHT

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!