Posted in Blog Tour, Interview

Author Interview of J.B. Michaels and Blog Tour for Murder on the Geneva Express

It’s my pleasure to interview James Michaels from Chicago. Welcome to Ruff Drafts, James. How long have you been published? What titles and/or series have you published and with which publisher? Have you self-published any titles? Please give details.

2015- The Tannenbaum Tailors series! The Chronicles of the Order series! The Mac and Millie Mystery series, “The Viking Throne”- standalone and some non-fiction books like “Plot Your Author Path” and “Why the F Do I Need Life Insurance.” Proudly, independently published under Harrison and James Publishing. After years and years of querying and rejection I decided to do it myself and have had much success! I was watching a Walt Disney documentary and Walt never asked for anyone’s permission to accomplish his dreams. So I took that route. Ha!

A man after my own Indie publishing heart. It sounds like you’ve certainly pursued your writing dreams. Tell us a little bit about your books — if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress. If you have an upcoming release, please specify the release date.

I write fast, fun, engaging books with lots of heart and wonderful characters. Maybe a bit of fantastical whimsy here and there. The Mac and Milly Mystery series is my most popular series because people love a good murder mystery but I truly believe they stay for the characters and setting! Geneva, IL is the backdrop for this series and it is such a great town!

Awesome. As a cozy mystery author myself, I know how important it is to have engaging characters and an interesting setting.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My goals are to keep writing and writing and writing. Improving with each book and further developing rather honing my imagination to keep my readers entertained, engaged, and fulfilled! I love stories and am very passionate. Eventually, I would like to expand my books into other formats and mediums. Film and TV adaptations are certainly a goal of mine!

Great goals. Best of luck to you.

 What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

Give me the avid reader who wants to be entertained! I want the thinker but also the child at heart. My books are smart but also very fun with a sense of humor and frankly youthful exuberance!

I’m sure that you have a wide audience.

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

Hmm… this one is tough. Keep writing and writing and always improving. Don’t stop honing your craft ever. Always challenge yourself. My Mac and Millie series books are all unique. Yes there are common themes but they are different in structure and feel and this is purposeful. There are many ways to get published and you can enjoy success traditionally or independently. Sometimes both.

Whatever you do, don’t stop writing. And decide for yourself how you want to put your book out into the world. Find your audience and be generous with them too.

Excellent advice.

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

Oh my gosh! So many. I got so excited after my very first draft of my first book that I started querying and sending out so many letters and getting so many rejections! It was so wild. I should have relaxed a bit and regrouped. It was hard but then I realized I needed to get better so I joined a writing society, went to conferences, took classes, joined a critique group and improved myself all the while I kept writing!!

That will be inspiring to those starting on their writing journeys.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

 I was a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators for years and the Chicago Writer’s Group. I had the same critique group for 8 years! We met once a month for 8 years. That was super helpful!

I’m sure you got a lot out of that.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

 Ooooh I love the Chicago Bears and Cubs! I am a huge fan of cinema! I have two Podcasts! One about movies and my books called the MisterMichaels.com Podcast and then The Magic in the Midwest Podcast about Walt Disney World!

You sure keep busy.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

What I like the Most? Hmm, the finished product and engaging with my readers!

 The Least: Sometimes, in the thick of it. You don’t know if your story is making any damn sense whatsoever. Not all the time but self-doubt and neurotic thinking tends to dominate. Sometimes though, you are so in the zone and so into what you are creating that all of that melts away and you are just living in your imagination! It’s one of the best feelings ever. Nothing like a great story to keep you happy and engaged!

I certainly relate to that.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

 There is so much fun to be had when you are the one holding all the cards! Pulling the strings! Making things happen and not happen! Setting expectations, subverting expectations, and delivering twists galore all wrapped up in a clean, cozy, place that most people find idyllic and transportive.

Nicely said.

Can you share a short excerpt from your latest title or upcoming release?

Mac O’Malley holed up in the newly renovated Atrium café. His heart beat much harder than normal, not only from moving fast down Third to The Tiny Wanderer,

but also from the fear of a situation he’d never found himself in before: the prime suspect in a murder and with the possible murder weapon in his hand. He

recounted the events in his head. He paced the floor without the use of his cane; he examined it with the flashlight from his phone. Were there any markers on

it to indicate he did strike the man in the head with the cane? There was a lot of blood. There had been a ton spewing from the side of the man’s head.

Mac remembered he’d nodded off on the train. He awoke to a man yelling for someone to wake up. He’d quickly sprung into action to help when the man who

screamed—but it turned out to be the vic’s brother. He’d accused Mac of killing his brother with a devastating blow to the side of his head, using the cane Mac

examined as the weapon. The cane was a replica of a prop in one of Mac’s favorite “lms, The Wolfman. As much as Mac trusted what he saw, and tried to will it

from his mind, the more prevalent the dark reality set. The handle of the cane resembled the head of the wolf and was covered in bloodstains. Mac had seen his

fair share of murder weapons. This cane, his cane, was used to murder a man on the Geneva Express? The pit in his stomach grew larger. Someone on the train

had grabbed his cane and then was powerful enough to use it to bludgeon a man in the head with one powerful blow and kill him. Or could something

else have happened? Maybe he hit his head earlier which caused some bleeding from his ear; maybe it got worse over time and he was too drunk to notice.

No. Someone in his party would have noticed. Mac shook his head and forced in a deep breath. The Atrium Café was dark and newly renovated. It was

refreshed to look like the original that had been ravaged by an awful storm a few months ago. It normally eased his mind but tonight it didn’t. He sat

on a wrought iron chair; he needed to gather his thoughts. He needed to just stroll back to the scene and talk to his brother, Vince, and explain exactly

what happened. Not many other plausible suspects had the luxury of having their brother on the force—and probably the responding detective on a fresh

crime scene. He could just go back and explain that he was afraid of getting beat down by a group of drunk bachelors and that he responded to a slumped man

who, upon examination, happened to be hemorrhaging blood from the side of his head.

Simple.

Mac stood in the dark Atrium Café. He activated his phone’s “ashlight once more to #nd his way out, but before leaving, he looked down at his cane once

more. The snarled snout and piercing eyes of the were‐ wolf stared back at him. A chill managed to raise the hair on the back of his neck and his arms.

“Snap out of it, Mac.” Mac drove the cane into the tile “floor and made his way forward to the Fulton Street exit.

He stopped.

He wasn’t sure if this was the right move. He needed some guidance. Sometimes, tough situations required consulting with his best partner, Millie.

“Sorry it’s so late, Millie, but I need to talk to someone about this.” He mumbled as he dialed her number.

The phone rang and rang.

“Mac. It’s 4:10 in the morning. What’s happening?

You okay?” Millie asked.

“Usually, I give a flippant answer: yes. But no. I am definitely not okay. In the next few hours—or sooner—I might be officially wanted for murder.”

Love it!

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

My books are all page-turning romps designed to entertain, delight, keep you guessing, and hopefully positively impact you! Oh and make you think as well. Thinking is important!

People appreciate a thoughtful read.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

facebook.com/mistermichaels

instagram.com/jbmichaelswritesbooks

instagram.com/jbmichaels11

jb@mistermichaels.com is my email address!

Thanks so much for the interview, and best wishes on your new release. I’m sharing your blog tour below.


Murder on the Geneva Express: A Mac and Millie Mystery
by JB Michaels

About Murder on the Geneva Express


Murder on the Geneva Express: A Mac and Millie Mystery
Cozy Mystery
6th in Series
Setting – Geneva Illinois
Independently Published (October 26, 2023)
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 164 pages
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8865567547
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CLW9X12L

Dead body found on Geneva Express!

In a perfect storm of misfortune, Mac O’Malley finds himself embroiled in a whodunnit that has everyone convinced HE has done it. Mac and Millie race against time, flee from authorities both municipal and magical, and attempt to clear Mac and his good reputation from absolute incarceration.

About J B Michaels

I have spent my life in the study of story from riveting novels to the slam-bang action-packed world of comics to the examination of film history, I have spent a lifetime learning and examining the elements that make a story incredible. This steadfast dedication has led me to write stories of my own.

I am married and with a son, I have a great love of family. I hope that you enjoy my bestselling books that mash genres from thrillers to science fiction to fantasy!

Author Links

Facebook www.facebook.com/mistermichaels

GoodReads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21568640.JB_Michaels

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jbmichaels11/

Purchase Links – AmazonAppleKoboB&N

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

January 8 – Bigreadersite – REVIEW

January 8 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST

January 9 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

January 10 – Reading Is My SuperPower – AUTHOR GUEST POST

January 11 – Brooke Blogs – CHARACTER GUEST POST

January 12 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

January 12 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – CHARACTER GUEST POST

January 13 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

January 14 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

January 15 – CelticLady Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

January 16 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

January 16 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

January 17 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

January 18 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT

January 19 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

January 20 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

January 21 – Nadaness In Motion – AUTHOR GUEST POST

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Posted in Blog Tour, Excerpt

Blog Tour and Excerpt for A Crust To Die For by T.C. LoTempio


A Crust to Die For (A Tiffany Austin Food Blogger Mystery)
by Toni LoTempio

This is a well-written cozy mystery and I look forward to reading more in the series! The author’s strong descriptive voice brings each setting to life so that the reader can clearly envision the action and the details.
~Cinnamon & Sugar and a Little Bit of Murder

A CRUST TO DIE FOR is a smart witty mystery full of friends and good food. Be sure to bring an appetite for pizza and sink your teeth into this delightful read.
~Cozy Up With Kathy

About A Crust To Die For 


A Crust to Die For (A Tiffany Austin Food Blogger Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Setting – Georgia
Severn House (January 2, 2024)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 240 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1448310032
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1448310036
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CB8YDJFV

The Bon-Appetempting Pizza Bake-Off has the small town of Branson, Georgia buzzing. Not least its organizer, Southern Style’s food critic and blogger Tiffany Austin. But right before the finals one of the celebrity judges falls ill, and to Tiffany’s horror the magazine replaces him with none other than handsome TV star and restaurateur Bartholomew Driscoll.

Tiffany once gave his restaurant a poor review, and she’s convinced he’s only accepted the job to get revenge. She fully expects Driscoll will find a way to ruin the contest . . . but she definitely doesn’t expect to trip over his dead body backstage!

Soon, it’s clear Tiffany wasn’t the only person who had less than positive feelings towards the sharp-tongued Driscoll. She’s surrounded by suspects – but which of the motley crew of contestants, family members and scorned friends and colleagues had the guts to commit murder?

With the help of her BFF Hilary and annoyingly handsome detective Bartell, and with cat Lily and puppy Cooper as emotional support, Tiffany investigates, only to discover that revenge is indeed a dish best served cold . . .

EXCERPT

and Arleen hadn’t come back yet, so I turned in the direction of the break room. As I approached the kitchen, I paused. There were voices coming from that direction. Low, intense voices. Curious, I drew closer.

“You’re making a huge mistake,” rasped one angry voice. I couldn’t make it out, but it sounded distinctly feminine. More whispering, then another voice, quivering with rage: “How dare you threaten me!”

I took a step backward. That voice I recognized. Driscoll! But who was he talking to? Charlotte Horn? Or someone else? I debated moving closer when I heard a loud voice call out, “Tiffany? Where are you? Are you backstage?”

Immediately the voices in the kitchen silenced. I hurried swiftly back out to the stage area, trying to be as quiet as possible. As soon as I emerged, Hilary ran up to me. “Arleen’s not in the ladies’ room,” she announced. “I hope she didn’t take off. She does that sometimes when she gets upset.”

“I’m sure she didn’t,” I said reassuringly. My mind was going a million miles a minute. Had the feminine voice I heard arging with Driscoll been Arleen’s? I couldn’t say for certain, so I didn’t want to voice any concern to Hilary. “Maybe she just went outside for a breath of fresh air,” I suggested. “We still have time before the second half. Let’s go look.”

We hurried over to the Exit door and outside. We walked around the building and checked the parking lot. Arleen’s convertible was still in its place under the shady elm. There was no sign of her, or anyone else for that matter, anywhere in the area.

“I can’t understand it,” Hilary grumbled as we made our way back. “Where could she have gone off to?”

Dale came over to us, and Hilary pounced on him. “Have you seen my sister? She’s missing!”

Dale gave Hilary a puzzled look. “No she’s not. She’s onstage. See.”

Dale parted the curtain. Sure enough, Arleen was behind her station, tying her apron. I frowned as I looked at her. Something about her seemed different, but I couldn’t put my finger on it.

Hilary put her hand to her breast. “Thank God,” she murmured. “She looks pretty calm, too, all things considered.”

I glanced at the other two contestants. Kurt Howell appeared unruffled as he pulled his pizza dough out, but Colleen Collins was grasping the edge of her counter. She seemed a bit short of breath, and I sincerely hoped she wasn’t having a panic attack.

Dale’s voice cut into my thoughts. “Have either of you seen Driscoll?” he asked.

“Not recently,” I answered. “Why?”

Dale pulled a face. “Mr. Wonderful hasn’t turned in his scores from the first half, and we need them before the second half can start.” He tapped at his watch. “Plus, now we’re running late and the school needs the auditorium for voting at four, which means we’ve got to be out by three in order for them to set up.”

“Well, he did say he felt light-headed. He was going to find a quiet spot and sit down, so he’s probably somewhere backstage.”

Dale shot me a hopeful look. “I know he’s not your favorite person, but would you help me look for him?”

I opened my mouth to tell Dale that I thought I’d heard Driscoll back in the kitchen, but his cell buzzed. Dale whipped it out of his pocket, mumbled, “Really? Now?” He held the phone away and looked over at me. “Thanks Tiff,” he said. “I’ll join you as soon as I put out this fire.” Without waiting for me to answer he hurried off, phone back to his ear. I squared my shoulders. So, it was up to me to light a fire under Driscoll, huh? Swell. I hoped by now he’d concluded his conversation with his mysterious companion. If not and I interrupted I’d most likely get my head handed to me. I glanced out at the judge’s area again. It was empty. Apparently both Anastasia and Ferrante had finished with the judging and decided to take a break too. I sighed. I’d better check out the kitchen area before more people started disappearing.

 I walked swiftly up the short flight of steps to the kitchen. This time when I approached, the door was closed. I hesitated, then raised my fist and rapped sharply. “Hello. Anyone in there?”

Silence.

I rapped again, louder this time. “Hello, Mr. Driscoll? Dale wanted me to tell you that we need your scores. You’re holding up the second half of the competition. Mr. Driscoll?”

Something made me glance down at the floor. Something was caught on the side of the door. I bent down and picked it up. It was a tiny sliver of fabric, a blue, white and purple print. It looked vaguely familiar, but I couldn’t place where I’d seen it. I slid the fragment into my pocket and knocked on the door again.

Still no answer.

I twisted the knob. The door opened a few inches, then stopped, as if something were blocking it. I frowned, and pushed harder. “Anyone in here?” I called. I poked my nose in through the narrow opening, trying to peer around the edge of the door.

The first thing I saw was a black-pants clad leg, turned sideways beside the round table. I drew a quick breath, took a step back, then flung my full body weight against the door. The door creaked back another foot, enough for me to enter. I eased myself awkwardly into the room, and saw someone had taken the footstool and wedged it against the door. I pushed it aside and made my way towards the leg. My first thought was that Driscoll might have fainted. He’d complained earlier about feeling light-headed. As I drew nearer though, I saw that wasn’t the case. I put my hand to my mouth and bit down hard to keep from screaming.

Bartholomew Driscoll lay sprawled across the floor, a chef’s knife sticking awkwardly out of the base of his throat.

About T.C. LoTempio

T. C. LoTempio is the award-winning, national bestselling author of the Nick and Nora mystery series. Her cat, Rocco, provides the inspiration for the character of Nick the cat. She also writes the Urban Tails Pet Shop Mystery Series, as well as the Cat Rescue series. Her latest series is the Tiffany Austin Food Blogger series from Severn House. Check out her and Rocco’s blog, www.catsbooksmorecats.blogspot.com, and visit her website, www.tclotempio.net, for more information.

Author Links

Webpage: http://www.tclotempio.net

Blog: http://www.catsbooksmorecats.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toni.lotempio.5

Twitter/X: @RoccoBlogger

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1195684.T_C_LoTempio?from_search=true&from_srp=true

Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

January 8 – Cinnamon, Sugar, and a Little Bit of Murder – REVIEW, RECIPE

January 8 – Read Your Writes Book Reviews – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

January 9 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

January 9 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

January 10 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

January 10 – CelticLady Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

January 11 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

January 12 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

January 13 – Brooke Blogs – RECIPE

January 14 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT

January 15 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT

January 16 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

January 17 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

January 17 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST

January 18 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT

January 19 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

January 20 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

January 21 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

Posted in Blog Tour, Spotlight

Blog Tour and Spotlight for Hope for the Holidays by Daryl Wood Gerber


Hope for the Holidays
by Daryl Wood Gerber

About Hope for the Holidays

Hope for the Holidays
Holiday Romance
Setting – Oregon
Independently Published – Chucklin Inc. (November 14, 2023)
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 304 pages
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8215261927
Digital : 979-8215400784

Hope Lyons’s husband ran through all their money and split Portland, Oregon, forcing Hope to sell her beloved Pie in the Sky bakery and move with her two children back to charming Hope Valley, her hometown. She has been working as a waitress and pinching pennies to get their lives back on track; however, when her children win KPRL’s Spirit of Christmas vacation contest, Hope worries about the extra expenses she will incur on such a trip and turns it down.

Steve Waldren, the handsome KPRL sports anchor, is now of an age where he can’t afford to have a gap on his resume. His confidence is already shaky, ever since his fiancée dumped him, claiming Steve would never reach his potential. When Steve’s boss dubs Steve to be Giveaway Santa, he’s forced to accept. Steve, as Santa, readily travels to Hope Valley to award the prize. But when Hope refuses it, he’s at a loss. His boss threatens to fire him if he doesn’t convince Hope to take it, and Steve does all he can to change her mind. But Hope can be stubborn, life can be a challenge, and Hope’s children can be unpredictable. Not to mention, the truth isn’t always what it seems.

Will Hope and Steve find their happily ever after? It might take a holiday miracle.

About Daryl Wood Gerber

Agatha Award-winning author Daryl Wood Gerber is delving into the world of romance for a passion project she simply had to write, HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS. In addition, Daryl writes the nationally bestselling Cookbook Nook Mysteries and the Fairy Garden Mysteries. As Avery Aames, she wrote the popular Cheese Shop Mysteries. In addition, Daryl writes the Aspen Adams novels of suspense as well as stand-alone suspense.

She has a frisky Goldendoodle who keeps her in line. You can learn more about her books on her website: httsp://darylwoodgerber.com

Author Links

WEBSITE: https://darylwoodgerber.com

FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/darylwoodgerber

BOOKBUB: https://bookbub.com/authors/daryl-wood-gerber

YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/woodgerb1

INSTAGRAM: https//instagram.com/darylwoodgerber

GOODREADS: https://goodreads.com/darylwoodgerber

AMAZON: https://bit.ly/Daryl_Wood_Gerber_page

NEWSLETTER: https://darylwoodgerber.com/contact-media/

Purchase Links – UniversalAmazonB&N

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

December 4 – Read Your Writes Book Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST

December 4 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

December 5 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

December 5 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

December 6 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

December 6 – Reading Authors Network – SPOTLIGHT

December 7 – Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

December 7 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

December 8 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

December 8 – Carla Loves to Read – REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST

December 9 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

December 10 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

December 11 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

December 12 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

December 13 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

December 13 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW

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Posted in Blog Tour, Spotlight

Blog Tour and Spotlight for Murderous Means: A Southern California Mystery by Lida Sideris


Murderous Means: A Southern California Mystery
by Lida Sideris

About Murderous Means


Murderous Means: A Southern California Mystery
Cozy Mystery
6th in the Series
Setting – California
Level Best Books (December 5, 2023)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 315 pages
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CKYGV5YH

Corrie Locke may not be the best rookie lawyer in town, but when it comes to catching a killer, let’s just say, she’s got enough skills to bring a band of shifty-eyed suspects to their knees.

When the wealthy matriarch of the dysfunctional Means family dies in her sleep, the family is convinced her death was anything but peaceful. They hire Corrie to prove it, but the only evidence they have to go on is a psychic’s half-baked vision that it was murder. To put the matter to rest, Corrie sets her sights on proving the psychic is a fraud. After all, everyone knows psychics are crack-pots, don’t they?

But what should be a simple investigation morphs into something deadly. The deeper Corrie digs, the more bizarre clues are revealed, and a possible witness is found dead. As tempers rise, it’s up to Corrie to catch a killer… who’s about to strike again.

About Lida Sideris

Lida Sideris is the author of the Southern California Mysteries. After graduating law school, Lida managed to snag a newbie lawyer’s dream job: working as an entertainment attorney for a movie studio…kind of like her heroine, Corrie Locke… except without the homicides. Lida is a recipient of the Helen McCloy Mystery Writers of America Scholarship Award and a 2x Killer Nashville, Silver Falchion Award finalist. Lida lives in the northern tip of Southern California with her family, rescue dogs, and a flock of uppity chickens. To learn more, please visit www.LidaSideris.com

Author Links

Website https://www.lidasideris.com/

Blog https://www.lidasideris.com/blog/

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

Twitter/X: @lidasideris

Instagram: @lida_sideris

Book Bub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lida-sideris

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14227684.Lida_Sideris

Purchase Links – Amazon – Bookshop.org B&N – Links Coming Soon

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

December 4 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

December 4 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – SPOTLIGHT

December 5 – Maureen’s Musing – SPOTLIGHT

December 5 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

December 6 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

December 7 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST

December 7 – Celticlady’s Reviews – RECIPE

December 8 – Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

December 8 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

December 9 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

December 9 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – AUTHOR GUEST POST

December 10 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

December 10 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

December 12 – StoreyBook Reviews – CHARACTER GUEST POST

December 13 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

December 13 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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Posted in Blog Tour, Guest Post

Guest Post and Blog Tour for Christmas in the Crosshairs by Deena Alexander

 


Christmas in the Crosshairs (Love Inspired Suspense)
by Deena Alexander

About Christmas in the Crosshairs


Christmas in the Crosshairs (Love Inspired Suspense)
Inspirational Romantic Suspense
Setting – Seaport, Long Island, New York
Love Inspired Suspense (November 28, 2023)
Mass Market Paperback ‏ : ‎ 224 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1335597794
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1335597793
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BTJ3BSJW

A baby in need of protection—

and a hitman in pursuit.

After evading an attack, defense attorney Adam Spencer is on the run from a dangerous hitman. The killer’s wife is Adam’s only hope at apprehending the criminal—until she lands in the hospital. Now he must depend on her twin sister, Jaelyn Reed, to find the answers they need…all while protecting the baby niece Jaelyn didn’t know she had. But with threats at every turn, trust may be the deadliest trap…

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

GUEST POST

Canine Search and Rescue

Anyone who knows me knows I love big dogs. All animals, really, but I have a soft spot for big dogs. They are loving, loyal, and amazing companions. I’ve had at least one, sometimes as many as four dogs, ever since I was a teenager. One of the most amazing dogs I’ve ever had was my Bernese Mountain Dog/ Golden Retriever mix, Koda. I still miss her every day.

When I decided to write a story about a canine search and rescue team, she was the first dog that came to mind. Although he only makes a cameo appearance in Christmas in the Crosshairs, Shadow—a Bernese Mountain Dog who, with his handler, works for Seaport Fire & Rescue—is one of the main characters in my story Kidnapped in the Woods.

It wasn’t until I really dug into researching search and rescue dogs that I realized how many lives depend on them, or how many different kinds there are. There are dogs who track missing persons, dogs who search for those who are deceased, and even dogs who go into collapsed buildings to search for survivors, just to name a few. I find it amazing how loyal and dedicated these dogs are. So much so, that they can even become depressed when they don’t succeed. After so much research, I’ve come to appreciate them and their importance in our lives even more.

And talk about loyalty. Right now, I have an Akita, Fluffy, and she is incredible, one of the most loving, affectionate, and loyal dogs I’ve ever had. While researching the breed, I came across the story of Hachiko, a Japanese Akita who was probably the most loyal dog who ever lived. He used to wait at the train station every day for his owner to return from work. One day, his owner passed away while at work. And still, every single day for nine more years, Hachikō made the trip to the train station to wait for him to appear.

About Deena Alexander

Deena grew up in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island, where she met and married her high school sweetheart. She recently relocated to Florida with her husband, three kids, a son-in-law, and four dogs. Now she enjoys long walks in nature all year long, despite the occasional alligator or snake she sometimes encounters. Deena’s love for writing developed when her youngest son was born and didn’t sleep through the night, and she now works full-time as a writer and a freelance editor.

Author Links

Purchase Links – Amazon B&N Kobo Harlequin Apple Google Play

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 28 – Maureen’s Musings – REVIEW

November 28 – Just Another Teen Reading Books – REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 29 – Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

November 29 – Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting – REVIEW

November 30 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

November 30 – Diane’s Book Journal – SPOTLIGHT

December 1 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

December 2 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

December 3 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

December 3 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

December 4 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

December 5 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

December 6 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

December 6 – Sapphyria’s Books – REVIEW

December 7 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

December 7 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

December 8 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR GUEST POST

December 8 – Angel’s Book Nook – SPOTLIGHT

December 9 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

December 10 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

December 11 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

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Posted in Blog Tour, historical fiction

Blog Tour and Guest Post for Grounds for Murder: A Coffee & Cream Cafe Mystery by Lena Gregory


Grounds for Murder (Coffee & Cream Cafe Mysteries)
by Lena Gregory

About Grounds for Murder


Grounds for Murder (Coffee & Cream Cafe Mysteries)
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Setting – Watchogue, Long Island, New York
Gemma Halliday Publishing (November 21, 2023)
Number of Pages 226
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CCLT922F

 

GUEST POST

Dogs and Cats in Cozy Mysteries

Let me start by saying, I love big dogs. I’ve had at least one, and sometimes as many as four, ever since I was a kid. I love cats too, and have had my share over the years. To me, a pet fills a home with love and joy. Not only do I love pets in my own life, I love them in my cozy mysteries as well. And each pet has its own personality and adds to the story in his own way.

In my Bay Island Psychic series, Cass adopts Beast, a giant Leonberger with the personality of a teddy bear. But he gets into everything! Much like my Golden Retriever, Nala, who once ate half a sweatshirt. In Occult and Battery, Beast swallows an important piece of evidence (though I won’t say what.) Thor, the Bernese Mountain Dog Gia adopts in the All-Day Breakfast Café series, is a real sweetheart, and is based on my Bernese Mountain Dog/ Golden Retriever mix, Koda. And Klondike, the little gray and white kitten Thor rescues, gets into some of the same things my own cats have gotten into over the years.

When I began my Mini-Meadows series, in which Emma lives in a tiny home, she adopted the ginger tabby cat that came with the house. But how could you not add a big dog to the mix to make things more interesting? So, her Granny Rose shows up and announces she’s moving in to the home Gia made from shipping containers and promptly adopts a Great Dane.

In the Coffee & Cream Café series, Dani adopts Patches—a black, white, and orange cat who showed up one day and made herself at home. Each of these pets have their own personalities, quirks, and even an occasional flaw, just like in real life. They add to their stories, are there for their owners when needed, and sometimes even safe lives. To me, pets play an important role in cozies.\

From author Lena Gregory comes a tasty new mystery with a killer twist…

Danika Delaney is thrilled to have taken over her uncle Jimmie’s old fashioned malt shop on eastern Long Island and is working hard to make it her own. In an effort to increase business, Danika invites a mystery writer to the Cookies & Cream Café for a discussion and book signing. Things seem to be going well, until a guest shows up and confronts the author, accusing him of plagiarizing his work. Embarrassed by the incident, Danika goes to the inn where the writer is staying the following morning, hoping to apologize and offer him another chance to return. What she finds instead is his dead body—beside a cup of poisoned coffee! Now it’s up to Danika to find out who wanted to silence the author… before the killer decides to write Danika a not-so-happy ending!

About Lena Gregory

Lena grew up in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island, but she recently traded in cold, damp, gray winters for the warmth and sunshine of central Florida, where she now lives with her husband, three kids, son-in-law, and four dogs. Her hobbies include spending time with family, reading, and walking. Her love for writing developed when her youngest son was born and didn’t sleep through the night. She works full time as a writer and a freelance editor and is a member of Sisters in Crime.

Author Links

Purchase Links
AmazonB&NKobo

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 21 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – CHARACTER GUEST POST

November 21 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

November 22 – Read Your Writes Book Reviews – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

November 22 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

November 23 – Thanksgiving U.S.

November 24 – The Mystery of Writing – SPOTLIGHT

November 24 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 25 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

November 25 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

November 26 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

November 26 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT

November 27 – Baroness Book Trove – REVIEW

November 27 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

November 28 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT

November 28 – My Reading Journeys – SPOTLIGHT

November 29 – Novels Alive – REVIEW – SPOTLIGHT

November 29 – Sapphyria’s Books – REVIEW

November 30 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 30 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

December 1 – View from the Birdhouse – REVIEW

December 1 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

December 2 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

December 2 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

December 3 – Cozy Up WIth Kathy – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

December 4 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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Spotlight and Blog Tour for Spiked Punch: A Maddie Sparks Mystery by Lesley A. Diehl


Spiked Punch (Maddie Sparks Mystery Series)
by Lesley A Diehl

About Spiked Punch


Spiked Punch (Maddie Sparks Mystery Series)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Upstate New York
Camel Press (November 14, 2023)
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 248 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1684921252
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1684921256
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C6NR8C3G

On the other side of seventy, Maddie Sparks decides to spice up her life by changing her writing interests from cozy mysteries to romance. She also determines her appearance should reflect this transformation in her writing career. A sassy new haircut and more fashionable clothes complete the newer Maddie Sparks. Before she can begin this new chapter in her life, a stabbing death in the quiet country village she has made her home shocks the town’s residents.

When her son is accused of the murder, Maddie and the acting county sheriff come together to find the real killer. Their relationship soon blooms into more than one of shared determination to solve the murder. As they enjoy a hike in a nearby park, someone shoots the sheriff, barely missing Maddie. Another killer could be loose in the area, and the person may be closer to Maddie than she realizes. Maddie discovers parts of herself she didn’t know existed: real life romance with the sheriff, a talent for sleuthing and room in her life for a fuzzy, orange cat named “Spike.” This recent lease on life may be more exciting and more dangerous than Maddie expects.

About Lesley A. Diehl

Cows, Lesley learned growing up on a farm, have a twisted sense of humor. They chased her when she went to the field to herd them in for milking, and one ate the lovely red mitten her grandmother knitted for her. Determining that agriculture wasn’t a good career choice, instead she uses her country roots and her training as a psychologist to concoct stories designed to make people laugh in the face of murder. “A good chuckle,” says Lesley,” keeps us emotionally well-oiled long into our old age.” She is the author of the Eve Appel mysteries from Camel Press as well as several cozy mystery series and numerous short stories. Go to her webpage to find out more: www.lesleyadiehl.com.

Author Links
Website www.lesleyadiehl.com

Blog www.lesleyadiehl.com/blog

Facebook www.facebook.com/lesley.diehl.1

GoodReads www.goodreads.com/3414925.Lesley_A_Diehl

Amazon www.amazon.com/author/lesleydiehl

Purchase Links – AmazonB&NKobo

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 15 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

November 15 – Cozy, Suspenseful, and Sweet – SPOTLIGHT

November 16 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

November 16 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 17 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

November 17 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 18 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

November 19 – Cozy Up With Kathy – CHARACTER GUEST POST

November 20 – Eskimo Princess Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 21 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

November 22 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

November 23 – THANKSGIVING U.S.

November 24 – Sapphyria’s Books – SPOTLIGHT

November 24 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 25 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

November 26 – My Reading Journeys – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

November 27 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

November 28 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

November 29 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 29 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

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Posted in Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery, recipes

Blog Tour and Recipe for Crime and Parchment: A Rare Books Cozy Mystery by Daphne Silver

 


Crime and Parchment: A Rare Books Cozy Mystery
by Daphne Silver

About Crime and Parchment


Crime and Parchment: A Rare Books Cozy Mystery
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Fictional town of Rose Mallow, Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay
Level Best Books (November 21, 2023)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 226 pages
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CKVBLPCY

Rare books librarian Juniper Blume knows this much… an ancient Celtic manuscript shouldn’t be in a Maryland cemetery. But that’s exactly what her brother-in-law claims.

Last year, Juniper saw the 1,200-year-old Book of Kells in Ireland. She learned how their bejeweled covers were stolen centuries ago, never to be seen again. So how could they have ended up in Rose Mallow, a small Chesapeake Bay town? Being Jewish, the Book of Kells might not be her sacred text, but as a rare books librarian, the ancient book is still sacred to her, making it important to Juniper to find out the truth.

Rose Mallow is the same place where Juniper used to summer with her sister Azalea and their grandmother Zinnia, known as Nana Z. Ever since Nana Z passed away, Juniper’s avoided returning, but her curiosity is greater than her grief, so she heads down in her vintage convertible with her rescue dog Clover.

Juniper discovers that her sister Azalea has transformed their grandmother’s Queen Anne style mansion into the Wildflower Inn, backing up to the Chesapeake Bay. Although Juniper isn’t much of a cook, Azalea has kept their grandmother’s legacy alive, filling the house with the smells of East European Jewish treats, like sweet kugels and tzimmes cake. Will coming back here feel like returning home or fill Juniper with a deeper sorrow? Can she apologize to her sister for not being there when she was needed most?

Book Excerpt

My 1965, robin’s egg blue convertible backfired as I parked in front of the Wildflower Inn. The noise set off Clover barking in the backseat. Not exactly the quiet homecoming I’d hoped for. I jumped out of my Karmann-Ghia – or “KG” as I’d nicknamed her – to check under the hood, hoping I wouldn’t need to get the roadster serviced yet again. No idea where that money would come from.

A screaming, ranting madwoman poured out of a neighboring house. Maybe in her late seventies, she brandished a large umbrella. I dropped the hood to find the umbrella pointing at me. Clover – all twenty pounds of him – jumped out and started growling.

“Easy, boy,” I said.

“You shoot something off, Missy? Here to cause trouble? Because I’m on the board of the Friends of the Rose Mallow Police.” the woman said. She wore a perfectly fitted Mamie Eisenhower pink skirt suit with enormous pearls – straight out of the 1950s. Her white bouffant billowed around her head. She reminded me of a researcher I’d helped earlier that day at the Library of Congress. That woman had been a murder mystery author looking for books about early detectives. This woman looked like she wanted to murder someone – namely me.

About Daphne Silver

Daphne Silver is the author of the Rare Books Cozy Mystery series. She’s worked more than twenty years in museums and has the great fortune of being married to a librarian. When she’s not writing, she’s drawing and painting. She lives in Maryland with her family. Although she’s not much of a baker, she won’t ever turn down a sweet lokshen kugel.

GUEST POST

In Crime and Parchment, my main character Juniper Blume isn’t a good baker, but her sister Azalea is, often creating their late grandmother’s East European Jewish recipes. One of their favorites is creating kugel!

Sweet Lokshen Kugel (Jewish Noodle Pudding)

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces wide egg noodles
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 2 cups sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • 1/4 cup cornflakes OR 1/2 cup apple chips (optional, for topping, see recipe below)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well combined.
  4. Stir in the melted butter, cottage cheese, sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  5. Fold in the cooked noodles and raisins (if using).
  6. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle cornflakes evenly over the top.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the kugel is set and the top is golden brown.
  8. Allow the kugel to cool slightly before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

Apple Chips (to go with the Kugel or on their own)

Ingredients

  • 2 firm, medium sized apples (I used Granny Smith and Honeycrisp to mix the sweet and slightly tart)
  • 1/3 (approximate) granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp (approximate) cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg (to taste)
  • Pinch of cardamom (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 225
  2. Select apples of your choice
  3. Wash, core, and thinly slice (I used a mandolin to get the super thin cuts)
  4. Mix together sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom in a shallow bowl
  5. Dip one side of each apple  in the sugar mix and place them sugar side up in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 1 ½ – 2 hours until crisp.
  7. Chop lightly into large flakes

Note on spices: A light pinch of cardamom (just a pinch or two over the whole batch) will help accentuate the flavor of the cinnamon, and just a pinch or two of nutmeg adds a little depth to the flavors as well.  Like all spices, this is really ‘to taste’

Author Links

Website www.daphnesilver.com

Facebook www.facebook.com/daphnesilverbooks

Instagram www.instagram.com/daphnesilverbooks

GoodReads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/45491307.Daphne_Silver

Purchase Link – Amazon

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 22 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

November 22 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 23 – Thanksgiving U.S.

November 24 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

November 24 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

November 24 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

November 25 – Ruff Drafts – RECIPE

November 25 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 26 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

November 26 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

November 27 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

November 27 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

November 28 – My Reading Journeys – CHARACTER GUEST POST

November 28 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 28 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 29 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

November 29 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

November 30 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

November 30 – Diane’s Book Journal – SPOTLIGHT

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Spotlight and Blog Tour for Christmas Lights and Cat Fights: A Jules Keene Glamping Mystery by Heather Weidner


Christmas Lights and Cat Fights: A Jules Keene Glamping Mystery
by Heather Weidner

About Christmas Lights and Cat Fights


Christmas Lights and Cat Fights: A Jules Keene Glamping Mystery
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Setting – Virginia
Level Best Books (October 17, 2023)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 285 pages
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CJQKWK3F
GoodReads Link Coming Soon

Christmas has come to Fern Valley, and the town’s decked out with enough glitter and sparkle for a month’s worth of celebrations, each more over-the-top than the previous one. The idyllic setting, filled with laughter, carols, and sweet treats, is shattered, along with some of the decorations, when the current wife and the ex-wife of a big-cat showman have a knock-down, drag-out fight in the center of town. Jules Keene, owner of the Fern Valley Glamping Resort, tries to keep peace among her guests and with the town council, but it turns into a catastrophe when Tabbi Morris, winds up dead in one of her ex-husband’s tiger cages.

And if the murder wasn’t enough, Jules discovers that some of the big cats are missing, but the owner and his family insists that nothing is wrong.

Curiosity gets the best of her, and she has to solve the murder and figure out if the owner of Cal’s Cats is pussy-footing around or whether it’s something more sinister before it ruins the holiday season and her business.

About Heather Weidner

Through the years, Heather Weidner has been a cop’s kid, technical writer, editor, college professor, software tester, and IT manager. Christmas Lights and Cat Fights is the third in her cozy mystery series, the Jules Keene Glamping Mysteries. She also writes the Delanie Fitzgerald mystery series and the Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mysteries (2023).

Her short stories appear in the Virginia is for Mysteries series, 50 Shades of Cabernet, Deadly Southern Charm, and Murder by the Glass, and her novellas appear in The Mutt Mysteries series.

She is a member of Sisters in Crime and active in the Central Virginia, Chessie, Grand Canyon Writers, and Guppies Chapters, International Thriller Writers, and James River Writers.

Originally from Virginia Beach, Heather has been a mystery fan since Scooby-Doo and Nancy Drew. She lives in Central Virginia with her husband and a pair of Jack Russell terriers.

Author Links

Website and Blog: http://www.heatherweidner.com

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/HeatherWeidner1

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heather_mystery_writer/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8121854.Heather_Weidner

Amazon Authors: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00HOYR0MQ

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HeatherBWeidner/

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/heather-weidner-d6430278-c5c9-4b10-b911-340828fc7003

Purchase Link – Amazon

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 14 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

November 14 – My Reading Journeys – CHARACTER GUEST POST

November 15 – Lady Hawkeye – RECIPE

November 16 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 16 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

November 17 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

November 17 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 18 – Reading Is My SuperPower – AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 19 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

November 20 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

November 21 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

November 22 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

November 23 – THANKSGIVING U.S.

November 24 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

November 24 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

November 25 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 25 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

November 26 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – SPOTLIGHT

November 26 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT

November 27 – My Journey Back – SPOTLIGHT

November 28 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

November 29 – Rebecca M. Douglass, Author – REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 29 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT
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Posted in Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery, New Releases, Spotlight

Spotlight for Deacon of the Dead


Deacon of the Dead: A Second Chance Inn Cozy Mystery
by MJ O’Neill

About Deacon of the Dead

Deacon of the Dead: A Second Chance Inn Cozy Mystery
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Georgia
Sweet Devotions (October 10, 2023)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 274 pages
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CK6LN21S

Come Sit a Spell in Clinton, Georgia. Home to Southern Sass, Romance, Murder, and (Fake) Zombie Fun – a charming cozy mystery book series from award-winning author MJ O’Neill

Who Knew Fake Zombies Could Stir Up Such Real Trouble?
When Harmony Holt’s daddy lands in the hospital putting their family inn on the brink of foreclosure, she’s dragged back to her quirky hometown, Clinton, Georgia, with an unconventional rescue plan: zombies. Well, zombie tours to be precise. As autumn unveils its colors, she concocts a daring plan to intertwine the town’s newfound fame as film site for the hit TV show Walker, Zombie Ranger with it’s upcoming fall festival, all to save her family’s legacy—and ideally, while dodging any awkward encounters with her ex, Seth.

But when Deacon Miller, a vocal opponent of her undead tourism idea, is found murdered in the middle of her zombie-fueled grand opening, shot with her inn’s gun, no less, she’s in a heap of trouble on both fronts. Now, with her tour permit hanging by a thread, land snatchers are clamoring for a piece of her property, and the local businesses that banked on her venture are in the lurch. To top it off, she’s prime suspect in the Deacon’s murder. Her sole beacon of hope? Sheriff Seth Johnson, her ex.

Is it a Second Chance at Love or a Second Chance for Murder?
Dive into this fall treat by award-winning author MJ O’Neill, a unique blend of cozy mystery and romance, sprinkled with Southern sass and autumn charm. Can Harmony save her family legacy and find where her heart truly belongs, or are some secrets better kept whispered in regrets?

About MJ O’Neill

MJ O’Neill is an award-winning author, entrepreneur, and literacy advocate.

Her love of mysteries started as a dyslexic child who relied on Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden to get through the dreaded book report. Now, she is a fierce advocate for literacy and stands firm against literary censorship.

Her professional writing adventure began when she owned a chocolate factory where writing mysteries was a safer bet than “murdering customers”. Currently, you might spot MJ rambling around the Pacific Northwest in her jeep, with her teenager and fierce Yorkie, on the hunt for bigfoot and her next captivating tale.

Author Links

Website: http://www.mjoneillauthor.com Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/mjoneillauthor BookBub Page: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mj-o-neill

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mjoneillauthor Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/MJONeillAuthor

Purchase Link: Amazon

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 13 – Lady Hawkeye – RECIPE

November 13 – Reading Authors Network – CHARACTER GUEST POST

November 13 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – SPOTLIGHT

November 14 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

November 14 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

November 14 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – REVIEW

November 15 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

November 15 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

November 16 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

November 16 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

November 16 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

November 17 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR GUEST POST

November 17 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

November 17 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

November 18 – My Reading Journeys – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

November 18 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

November 19 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT

November 19 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

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