Author Spotlight of Maddie Day, Author of Strangled Eggs and Ham, A Country Store Mystery

Posted on July 2, 2019 by Debbie

I’m pleased to have author Maddie Day from Amesbury, Massachusetts here to chat about her writing and her cozy mystery, Strangled Eggs and Ham, A Country Store Mystery, that’s on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas into a Good Book.

Nice to have you here, Maddie. 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.

Speaking of Murder, my first mystery (written as Tace Baker), came out in the fall of 2012. It and its sequel were published by Barking Rain Press. I had a few short stories published before that (as Edith Maxwell). As Maddie Day, Strangled Eggs and Ham is the sixth Country Store Mystery from Kensington Publishing, and there will be at least three more plus a novella. Maddie also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with Murder on Cape Cod as the first.

I have five Local Foods Mysteries, also from Kensington, out as Edith Maxwell, and Edith writes the Quaker Midwife Mysteries, which were from Midnight Ink through Charity’s Burden, book four, and are continuing with Beyond the Page Publishing with Judge Thee Not and at least two after that. I have self-published the rerelease of a number of my short stories, which originally appeared in juried anthologies, as short ebooks.

Excellent. You are quite prolific.

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.

My Country Store novella “Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse” will be out in September in Christmas Cocoa Murder. After that will be Nacho Average Murder next summer and I just finished writing book eight (title TBD). Murder on Cape Cod rereleases on all platforms in January, and Murder at the Taffy Shop will be out in a Barnes & Noble exclusive in April.

Those sound great. I love the title of the Christmas one.

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?

I aim to meet my contractual deadlines for three-plus books a year in three series. My writing is my full time job and I treat it as such. I also like to stretch myself by writing short stories that are a little darker or which feature the villain as narrator, and I’m playing around with ideas for a new historical series. Stay tuned!

That’s quite a schedule, so it’s good that you can devote all your time to it. I also like to write short stories in addition to my books, but I work full-time, so it takes a bit longer for me to write.

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

I’m looking for readers who love a compelling, well-told story in which characters have strong bonds, the protagonist is a smart strong woman, and things get put right by the end. My readers won’t see violence on the page, read obscenities, or see romance get too hot (lovers close the bedroom door just in time).

A great “recipe” for cozy mysteries.

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

Plant your butt in the chair and your fingers on the keyboard to write the best book you can. You can’t fix what you haven’t written. Find your tribe of writers, such as Sisters in Crime, and learn from them. Revise and polish and hone your book, then get someone with a critical eye to do the same. Persist! Early on I told myself, “Somebody is going to get published, and it might as well be me.”

Very motivating. I’m also a member of Sisters in Crime and find them very helpful. I’ve published 7 novels (4 are part of my Cobble Cove cozy mystery series), but I’m still seeking an agent and to publish with a large publisher like Kensington.

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

I gave up on finding an agent after more than fifty rejections, but then an agent came to the New England chapter of Sisters in Crime looking for authors, and we worked out a deal. I was also writing around the edges of a full-time job, which isn’t easy.

That’s my issue. Glad it worked out for you.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

Sisters in Crime, including the New England chapter and the Guppies, and Mystery Writers of America. I also belong to a local cross-genre group, the Newburyport Writers.

As I said, I’m also a member of Sisters in Crime and also Guppies, but there’s not a chapter near me, so I connect with them mostly online.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I like to garden, cook, do crossword puzzles – and read, of course.

A nice variety of hobbies.

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

I love when I hear from readers that my book got them through a tough time, whether sitting with an ill relative or their own hospital stay. I also delight in the times when I feel like I’m channeling the story, when my characters surprise me and I have to keep typing to find out what happens next!

The middle of the book is a challenge for me every time, but now that I’m writing novel #22, I know I will get through it if I persist. Promotion is also a challenge – figuring out how much and what kind is enough and effective, and how much puts readers off.

Although I’ve had some wonderful comments about my books, I haven’t yet been told it’s helped anyone through a hard time. I would love that. As far as my characters surprising me, they do it all the time. Regarding promotion, I think most authors struggle with that whether you self publish, have a small publisher, or a large one.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

I love that I can set up a community of returning characters and, after some mayhem, restore justice to the community in the end.

Yes, that’s a lot of fun but also a challenge.

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

Here’s a tidbit from Strangled Eggs and Ham:

Adele faced me, fists on her waist. “So you’re not going to help me? A little old lady who’s done so much for you?” Her tone was plaintive, but a smile played at the edges of her mouth.

“Hey, Jordans don’t guilt trip, right?” I lowered my head and gave her the look my mom used to give me. “And you’re hardly a helpless old lady.” On the contrary, my aunt was one of the most competent women I knew.

She chortled. “I’m pulling your leg, sugar. That said, I mean to stop this Fiona if it’s the last thing I do.”

I shivered. If this conflict led to another murder, it had better not be Adele’s. “Promise me you’ll be careful?”

“Girl Scout’s honor.” She held up three fingers.

Except her other hand was behind her back, and I was willing to bet my month’s profit she was crossing her fingers back there.

Well written.

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

Please find me! I love to hear from readers. You can sign up for my author newsletter on the home page of my web site, edithmaxwell.com. And, as always, a short positive review on Goodreads, Bookbub, and Amazon goes a long way toward helping the author. Also, come visit the Wicked Authors blog and join our Facebook group. We are six New England authors who have built a community of readers. We host giveaways, a book club, guests, and so much more.

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

Strangled Eggs and Ham
(A Country Store Mystery)
by Maddie Day

About the Book

Strangled Eggs and Ham (A Country Store Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
6th in Series
Kensington (June 25, 2019)
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
ISBN-10: 1496711254
ISBN-13: 978-1496711250
Digital ASIN: B07HW1D15K

Robbie Jordan’s rustic country store is growing in popularity. But when a dead body appears, it turns out that Robbie’s home-style cooking attracts hungry customers—and murder!

While Robbie scrambles through breakfast orders for her expanding clientele at Pans ‘N Pancakes, tempers run as high as the sticky August heat in South Lick, Indiana. Real-estate developer Fiona Closs plans to build a towering luxury resort at one of the most scenic hilltops in Brown County, and not everyone can see the sunny side of the imposing proposition—including Robbie’s furious Aunt Adele, who doesn’t waste a minute concocting protests and road blockades. When tensions boil over and a vocal protester is silenced forever at the resort site, Robbie ditches the griddle to catch the killer. But if slashed tires are any indication, she’ll need to crack this case before her own aunt gets served something deadly next . . .

Includes Recipes for You to Try!

About the Author

Maddie Day is a talented amateur chef and holds a Ph.D. in linguistics from Indiana University. An Agatha Award-nominated author, she is a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America and also writes award-winning short crime fiction. She lives with her beau and three cats in Massachusetts.

As Edith Maxwell, she writes the Local Foods Mysteries (Kensington Publishing) and the Quaker Midwife Mysteries (Midnight Ink).

You can find all Maddie’s/Edith’s identities at http://www.edithmaxwell.com. She blogs every weekday with the other Wicked Cozy Authors at wickedcozyauthors.com. Look for her as Edith M. Maxwell and Maddie Day on Facebook and @edithmaxwell and @maddiedayauthor on Twitter.

Purchase Links

Amazon B&N Kobo Google Play IndieBound

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

June 24 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW, EXCERPT

June 24 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW

June 24 – ⒾⓃⓉⓇⓄⓈⓅⒺⒸⓉⒾⓋⒺ ⓅⓇⒺⓈⓈ – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT

June 25 – Baroness’ Book Trove – REVIEW

June 25 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 25 – ❧Defining Ways❧ – SPOTLIGHT, RECIPE

June 26 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 26 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT

June 26 – Author Teresa Watson – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 27 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW, EXCERPT

June 27 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

June 27 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW

June 28 – View from the Birdhouse – SPOTLIGHT

June 28 – A Blue Million Books – CHARACTER GUEST POST

June 28 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

June 29 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, RECIPE

June 29 – 4covert2overt ☼ A Place In The Spotlight ☼ – GUEST POST

June 30 – Carla Loves To Read – REVIEW

June 30 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, RECIPE

July 1 – Sapphyria’s Books – REVIEW

July 1 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – REVIEW

July 1 – I’m All About Books – GUEST POST

July 2 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

July 2 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT, RECIPE

July 3 – Curling up by the Fire – REVIEW

July 3 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

July 3 – The Cozy Pages – SPOTLIGHT, RECIPE

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Blog Tour, mystery, New Releases, Romantic Suspense

Spotlight For Mistaken Identity Crisis, A Braxton Campus Mystery, by James J. Cudney

Posted on June 28, 2019 by Debbie

Mistaken Identity Crisis
(Braxton Campus Mysteries)
by James J. Cudney

About the Book

Mistaken Identity Crisis (Braxton Campus Mysteries)
Cozy Mystery
4th in Series
Creativia (June 30, 2019)
Digital Edition, 260 pages
ASIN: B07Q6YSTPN

A clever thief with a sinister calling card has invaded Braxton campus. A string of jewelry thefts continues to puzzle the sheriff, given they’re remarkably similar to an unsolved eight-year-old case, back when Gabriel vanished one stormy night.

When a missing ruby, and a body, are discovered at the campus, Kellan must investigate the killer’s motive to protect his brother. As if the latest murder isn’t enough to keep him busy, Kellan partners with April to end the Castigliano and Vargas crime family feud. What really happened to Francesca while all those postcards showed up in Braxton?

The mafia world is more calculating than Kellan realized. If he wants to move forward, he’ll have to make a few ruthless sacrifices. And as the summer heat begins to settle in Wharton County, a couple more surprises are also in store.

About the Author

James is my given name, but most folks call me Jay. I live in New York City, grew up on Long Island, and graduated from Moravian College. I spent fifteen years building a technology career in the retail, sports, media, and entertainment industries. I enjoyed my job, but a passion for books and stories had been missing for far too long. I’m a voracious reader in my favorite genres (thriller, suspense, contemporary, mystery, and historical fiction), as books transport me to a different world where I can immerse myself in so many fantastic cultures and places. I’m an avid genealogist who hopes to visit all the German, Scottish, Irish, and British villages my ancestors emigrated from in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Writing has been a part of my life as much as my heart, my mind, and my body. I decided to pursue my passion by dusting off the creativity inside my head and drafting outlines for several novels. I quickly realized I was back in my element growing happier and more excited with life each day. My goal in writing is to connect with readers who want to be part of great stories and who enjoy interacting with authors. To get a strong picture of who I am, check out my author website or my blog. It’s full of humor and eccentricity, sharing connections with everyone I follow—all in the hope of building a network of friends across the world.

When I completed the first book, Watching Glass Shatter, I knew I’d stumbled upon my passion again, suddenly dreaming up characters, plots, and settings all day long. I chose my second novel, Father Figure, through a poll on my blog where I let everyone vote for their favorite plot and character summaries. It is with my third book, Academic Curveball, the first in the Braxton Campus Mysteries, where I immersed myself in a college campus full of so much activity, I could hardly stop thinking about new murder scenes or character relationships to finish writing the current story. Come join in the fun!

List of Books
Watching Glass Shatter (October 2017)
Father Figure (April 2018)
Braxton Campus Mysteries
Academic Curveball – #1 (October 2018)
Broken Heart Attack – #2 (November 2018)
Flower Power Trip – #3 (March 2019)
MistakenIdentity Crisis – #4 (June 2019)

Websites & Blog
Website: https://jamesjcudney.com/
Blog: https://thisismytruthnow.com

Social Media Links
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/James-J.-Cudney/e/B076B6PB3M/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jamescudney4
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesJCudneyIVAuthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BraxtonCampusMysteries/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jamescudney4/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamescudney4/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/jamescudney4
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescudney4

Purchase Links – Amazon

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

June 21 – Mallory Heart’s Cozies – REVIEW

June 22 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT

June 22 – LibriAmoriMiei – REVIEW

June 23 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 24 – Books Direct – MAP & CHARACTER LIST POST

June 25 – Rosepoint Publishing – REVIEW

June 25 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – SPOTLIGHT

June 26 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 27 – Jane Reads – REVIEW

June 28 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

June 29 – Bibliophile Reviews – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

June 30 – A Blue Million Books – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

July 1 – Carla Loves To Read – REVIEW

July 2 – I’m All About Books – SPOTLIGHT

July 2 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

July 3 – Island Confidential – GUEST POST

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Spotlight For A Crafter Hooks a Killer, A Handcrafted Mystery, by Holly Quinn

Posted on June 20, 2019 by Debbie

A Crafter Hooks a Killer:
A Handcrafted Mystery
by Holly Quinn

About the Book

A Crafter Hooks a Killer: A Handcrafted Mystery
Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Crooked Lane Books (June 11, 2019)
Hardcover 274 Pages
ISBN-10: 1643850121
ISBN-13: 978-1643850122
Digital ASIN: B07MGS1XDW

Community Craft proprietor Sammy Kane suspects that a tantalizing thread links the deaths of her best friend and a bestselling author. But can she weave together the clues?

Samantha “Sammy” Kane is settling into her new life in idyllic Heartsford, Wisconsin, running her late friend Kate Allen’s craft shop, Community Craft when one early June day, bestselling crochet author Jane Johnson visits Heartsford. Captivated by Community Craft, Jane devotes a chapter in her new book, Behind the Seams, to the store. Sammy is honored, though satisfaction quickly turns to shock when she finds Jane strangled to death—her cold hands clutching a copy of her most recently published book, with the words “THE END” raggedly scratched into the cover.

Heavens to Etsy! Not only must Sammy contend with the author’s inauspicious demise, she has to untie some knotty details from her own past. It turns out Kate’s death was not what it seemed, and instead somehow hooked to Jane Johnson’s demise. Handsome Detective Liam Nash is on the “skein”, more than happy to see the shop owner again, if less than enamored by her sleuthing interventions. But this was Sammy’s best friend—she has to know.

Fortunately, Sammy has a “lace” in the hole. As a child, she formed the S.H.E. detective team with her cousin, Heidi, and her sister, Ellie. Having already reconstituted their partnership, the S.H.E. team searches for a pattern behind the latest death. As the case starts to unravel, will Sammy and team be able to sidestep Liam quick enough to stitch together the clues?

About the Author

Holly Quinn has published two stand-alone fiction novels in another persona. She graduated from Carroll University in Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Science in business and a minor in marketing. This is her second Handcrafted mystery. Visit her @ www.authorhollyquinn.com

Author Links –

Website – www.authorhollyquinn.com

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

GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7940795.Holly_Quinn

Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N – BAM – IndieBound – Powell’s Books – Walmart

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

June 11 – The Book’s the Thing – REVIEW

June 11 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW, RECIPE

June 12 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT

June 12 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 13 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

June 13 – Brooke Blogs – GUEST POST

June 14 – The Book Diva’s Reads – SPOTLIGHT

June 14 – Bibliophile Reviews – REVIEW

June 15 – Baroness’ Book Trove – REVIEW

June 16 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW

June 16 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 17 – I’m All About Books – SPOTLIGHT

June 17 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 18 – Author Teresa Watson – REVIEW

June 18 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 19 – Brianne’s Book Reviews – REVIEW

June 19 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT

June 20 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

June 21 – View from the Birdhouse – REVIEW

June 21 – A Blue Million Books – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 22 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW

June 23 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW

June 24 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

June 24 – Cozy Up With Kathy – CHARACTER GUEST POST

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Spotlight For Love, Lies, and Azure Eyes by Janis Thornton

Posted on June 19, 2019June 19, 2019 by Debbie

Love, Lies, and Azure Eyes
by Janis Thornton

About the Book

Love, Lies, and Azure Eyes
Paranormal Romantic Suspense
Soul Mate Publishing, LLC (June 12, 2019)
Print Length: 267 pages
ASIN: B07PRV6VZC

Elated by Annie’s response, Johnny caved to his impulse and pressed his mouth to her sweet lips, sparking a surge of electricity that ricocheted through his entire body, and for one glorious moment swept him up in a wave of emotion that meteorically whisked him to the edge of the universe, past swirling spirals of brightly burning stars — white dwarfs, red giants, entire galaxies. Caught in the rapture, he shed his cocoon of darkness and experienced the light — the wonderful, warm, life-affirming light. He reveled in it, felt alive. He almost believed he was. Almost.

* * *

West Coast journalist Annie Sinclair’s career, not to mention her love life, has been on the skids far too long, when she returns to Logan Point, her small, Indiana hometown. She’s back to make amends with her elderly father, and to delve into the 25-year-old, unsolved murder of her high school classmate for a writing gig with a national tabloid.

Annie’s plans soon go awry, and her mettle is tested — first when her father warns her against digging into the past; and again, when she meets the Logan Point Ledger’s handsome, but exasperating, new editor; and again still, when she reconnects with her first love, who clearly wants to rekindle what once was.

But Annie’s most arduous test appears in the form of the earthbound spirit of a boy she once knew — the boy with the azure eyes accused of the murder she is looking into. He needs her to prove his innocence, so he can break the ties that bind him to the darkness. In exchange, he will set Annie free to realize that the love she yearns for is just within her reach … if only she will open her heart.

About the Author

Janis Thornton is the author of a true crime/oral history/memoir, Too Good a Girl, as well as two cozy mysteries, Dust Bunnies & Dead Bodies and Dead Air & Double Dares. She also is the author of two local history books and contributor to Undeniably Indiana. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, the Authors Guild, and the Indianapolis Writers Center. She lives in her Indiana hometown in the same house where she grew up.

Author Links

Website: www.janis-thornton.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janisthorntonauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JanisThornton
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6482161.Janis_Thornton

Purchase Link
Amazon

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

June 12 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT

June 13 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 13 – ⒾⓃⓉⓇⓄⓈⓅⒺⒸⓉⒾⓋⒺ ⓅⓇⒺⓈⓈ – SPOTLIGHT

June 14 – ❧Defining Ways❧ – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 15 – MJB Reviewers – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 16 – StoreyBook Reviews – CHARACTER GUEST POST

June 16 – 4covert2overt ☼ A Place In The Spotlight ☼ – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 17 – Cozy Up With Kathy – SPOTLIGHT

June 17 – Books Direct – GUEST POST

June 18 – Brooke Blogs – GUEST POST

June 18 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 19 – Baroness’ Book Trove – REVIEW

June 19 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

June 20 – I’m All About Books – SPOTLIGHT

June 21 – The Book Diva’s Reads – CHARACTER GUEST POST

June 22 – Brianne’s Book Reviews – REVIEW

June 22 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

June 23 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW

June 24 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 25 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

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Spotlight For Death by Dissertation, A Cassandra Sato Mystery, by Kelly Brakenhoff

Posted on June 18, 2019 by Debbie

Death by Dissertation
(Cassandra Sato)
by Kelly Brakenhoff

About the Book

Death by Dissertation (Cassandra Sato)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Nebraska
Emerald Prairie Press (April 17, 2019)
Paperback: 355 pages
ISBN-10: 1733742409
ISBN-13: 978-1733742405
Digital ASIN: B07PKRD658

Ambitious Cassandra Sato traded her life in Hawai’i for a dream position as Student Affairs VP at Morton College in tiny Carson, Nebraska. She expected the Midwestern church casseroles, land-locked cornfields, and face-freezing winters would be her biggest challenges, but it’s her job that’s rapidly becoming a nightmare.

A deaf student is dead and the investigation reveals a complicated trail of connections between campus food service, a local farmer’s beef, and the science lab’s cancer research. Together with her few allies, Cassandra must protect the students caught up in the entanglement.

Dealing with homesickness, vandalism, and a stalker, Cassandra is trapped in a public relations disaster that could cost her job, or more. No one said college was easy.

About the Author

Kelly Brakenhoff is an American Sign Language Interpreter whose motivation for learning ASL began in high school when she wanted to converse with her deaf friends. As an American Sign Language Interpreter with more than twenty years of experience, Kelly’s worked in college classrooms for fifteen different majors. From traipsing across muddy farm fields to stomach-churning medical procedures, and stage interpreting for famous figures, Kelly’s community interpreting interactions number in the thousands. Unfortunately, once she’s stepped away from the job, she usually forgets 90% of what happened. Which helps her keep confidential information safe, but also makes it really hard to grocery shop for more than 5 items without a written list.

Kelly wants to live in a world filled with peace, love, and joy, where people who can hear learn enough sign language to include deaf people in everyday conversations and work. Where every deaf child has early access to language and books with characters like them, and dark chocolate is cheap and plentiful.

When she’s not interpreting or writing, you can find Kelly cheering for her favorite Husker teams or training for half-marathons because she really likes dessert.

Her first mystery, Death by Dissertation, released April 22, 2019.

Author Links

Website – http://kellybrakenhoff.com/

Amazon – Https://amazon.com/author/kellybrakenhoff

Twitter- https://twitter.com/inBrakenVille
Instagram – @kellybrak

Purchase Link – Amazon

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The author has set up an Amazon Countdown Deal that will run June 22 – 30^th for $.99. https://www.amazon.com/Death-Dissertation-Cassandra-Sato-Mystery-ebook/dp/B07PKRD658/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=death+by+dissertation&qid=1560202809&s=digital-text&sr=1-1

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

June 17 – The Layaway Dragon – REVIEW

June 17 – Only By Grace Reviews – REVIEW

June 18 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT, RECIPE

June 18 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

June 19 – Island Confidential – REVIEW

June 20 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 20 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW

June 21 – Book Club Librarian – REVIEW

June 21 – That’s What She’s Reading – GUEST POST

June 22 – Mallory Heart’s Cozies – REVIEW

June 22 – MJB Reviewers – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 23 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW

June 24 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW

June 24 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 25 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – REVIEW

June 25 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 26 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

June 26 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

June 27 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

June 27 – I’m All About Books – GUEST POST

June 28 – Baroness’ Book Trove – REVIEW

June 29 – The Ninja Librarian – REVIEW, GUEST POST

June 30 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Mysteries

Author Spotlight of Julie Seedorf, author of Granny Bricks A Bandit, A Fuchsia Minnesota Mystery

Posted on June 15, 2019 by Debbie

I’m pleased to have author Julie Seedorf from Minnesota here to chat about her writing and her cozy mystery, Granny Bricks A Bandit, a Fuchsia Minnesota Mystery, that’s on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas into a Good Book.

Nice to have you here, Julie 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.

I was published in July of 2013.

The Fuchsia, MN Series –Cozy Cat Press

Granny Hooks A Crook

Granny Skewers A Scoundrel

Granny Snows A Sneak

Granny Forks A Fugitive

Granny Pins A Pilferer

Granny Bricks A Bandit

The Brilliant, MN Series-self published by Hermiony Vidalia Books

The Penderghast Puzzle Protectors

The Discombobulated Decipherers

The Granny Is In Trouble Series- Children’s books-self published by Hermiony Vidalia Books

Whatachamacallit? Thingamajig?

Snicklefritz

That’s quite a list of books. Please tell us a little bit about them– 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.

Granny Bricks A Bandit from the Fuchsia, MN Series was just released in March. Granny is an over-the-top Senior Citizen that defies what we all believe older people are. She has a menagerie of animals, suitors and a group of friends that help her get in trouble and solve crimes. The community of Fuchsia is a satire on all the rules and regulations we live by in real life. It is an over-the-top community too. The goal is to make people laugh and take them away from the real work for a brief respite.

Sounds great.

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 goal as a writer is to make people lives better. I want to give them the gift of laughter and also reach their heart so they know life is worth living. I want to be an encourager.

That’s so nice.

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

I believe most of my audience might be women and older children. Although I think men might like my books if they like to laugh and want a break from serious subjects.

They say laughter is the best medicine, and your books sound like they would certainly raise people’s spirits.

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

Be true to yourself. Follow your instincts when it comes to writing. Don’t try to be like another author. Having said that, be able to take constructive criticism about your writing. It will only make you better. Decide what is of value and what will feed you. And find a good editor. That has been the weakness in some of my books. I have an excellent one that I use for my self-published books. But if you are with a publishing company make sure they have one too. Check all of the manuscript.

Good advice.

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

I have to say, I had an easy road. I had no challenges and that is why I call it a nudge from God.

Good for you.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

I don’t. Not because they aren’t valuable but I live in a rural area and groups that fit my writing are hours away. If you have a group that is critical of your genre it will not help you.

Good points.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

Watercolor painting, reading, crafts of any kind, movies and the list can go on. There is always something new.

It’s good for authors to find activities, especially other creative ones, as a break from writing.

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

I love the readers I meet and my world has opened up with author friends from all over the world, some being the same people I have read for years. An expanded world teaches on so much about every facet of life and people. My toughest challenge is editing and taking the time to write each day.

I also believe meeting fellow authors whether online or in person is a great way to enrich your life with friendships and networking opportunities. Finding time to write every day certainly is a challenge especially when you work full-time, but it can be done even if only a few minutes a day.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

I can let my imagination soar. Also I like the fact my grandchildren could pick up a book and there would be nothing in that book that I wouldn’t want them to see. Also cozy readers are awesome people.

I agree.

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

I came to my computer repair career late in life and also my career as an author. You are never too old to keep learning. If you think you can do it, you will. If you think you can’t, you won’t.

One of the great things about writing is people can do it any age.

It was a pleasure chatting with you, Julie. Best wishes on your new release. I’m sharing the blog tour below.

Granny Bricks A Bandit
(Fuchsia, Minnesota Series)
by Julie Seedorf

About the Book

Granny Bricks A Bandit (Fuchsia, Minnesota Series)
Cozy Mystery
6th in Series
Cozy Cat Press (February 18, 2019)
Paperback: 239 pages
ISBN-10: 194606372X
ISBN-13: 978-1946063724
Digital ASIN: B07P1J663L

Granny and her cohorts are at it again! When Granny and her neighbor Mavis, go water-skiing and discover a dead body, Granny’s sleuthing instincts take over! She is determined to identify the corpse and find the killer. But wait! No sooner are Granny and her cohorts on the murderer’s trail, then Mavis’ husband George suddenly disappears! Could he be the killer’s next victim? Or could he be the killer? When the gals take a side trip to the Mall of America, they find a man fell to his death on a climbing wall––and Mavis is certain she spots George nearby! What does it all mean? Will Granny get to the bottom of it, with the help of her entourage of buddies and pets?

About the Author

A Bit About Me As An Impassioned Writer

As human beings, we are always a work in progress. From birth to death we live, hurt, laugh, cry, feel, and with all of those emotions we grow as people, as family members, and as friends. I am a dreamer and feel blessed to have the opportunity in my writing to pass those dreams on to others. I believe you are never too old to dream and to turn those dreams into a creative endeavor. I live in rural Minnesota and I am a wife, mother, and grandmother.

I have worn many hats throughout my life such as working as a waitress, nursing home activities person, office manager and finally a computer repair person eventually owning my own computer sales and repair business. I never forgot my love of writing and quit my computer business in 2012 after signing a contract with Cozy Cat Press for Granny Hooks A Crook, the first book in my Fuchsia, Minnesota Series.

Adding four more books to the Fuchsia Series, adding a new Brilliant, Minnesota Series and writing a column for local newspapers feeds my writing creativity.

I also dabble a bit in watercolor painting and hope to eventually add pictures to my children’s book series, Granny’s In Trouble.

Oh, and did I tell you I like to be a little bit silly.

Author Links

Website: http://julieseedorf.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/julie.seedorf.author

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/julieseedorf

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/julie_seedorf

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/julieseedorf

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Julie-Seedorf/e/B009WAAANQ

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/JulieSeedorf

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/JulieSeedorf

Purchase Links

Amazon – Kobo

Other Formats – Nook, BarnesandNoble.com, Ibooks, Overdrive

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

June 12 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY

June 13 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 13 – Brianne’s Book Reviews – REVIEW

June 14 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

June 14 – Teresa Watson’s Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 15 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 16 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT

June 17 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW

June 17 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – CHARACTER INTEVIEW

June 18 – The Cozy Pages – CHARACTER GUEST POST

June 19 – Literary Gold – CHARACTER GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY

June 19 – I’m All About Books – GUEST POST

June 20 – Maureen’s Musings – REVIEW

June 21 – LibriAmoriMiei – REVIEW

June 22 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 22 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY

June 23 – Cassidy’s Bookshelves – GUEST POST

June 24 – Readeropolis – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 25 – Eskimo Princess Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY

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Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Mysteries

Author Spotlight of Mary Lawrence, author of the Alchemist of Lost Souls, a Bianca Goddard Mystery

Posted on June 4, 2019 by Debbie

I’m pleased to have author Mary Lawrence from Limington, Maine here to chat about her writing and her cozy mystery, The Alchemist of Lost Souls, a Bianca Goddard Mystery, that’s on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas into a Good Book.

Nice to have you here, Mary 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.

The Alchemist’s Daughter came out in 2015. Kensington publishes the Bianca Goddard Mysteries. There are 4 books in the series with a 5^th to come in 2020. Death of an Alchemist (2016), Death at St.Vedast (2017), The Alchemist of Lost Souls (2019).

Some interesting titles. Tell us a 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.

The Bianca Goddard Mysteries are set during the final years of King Henry VIII’s reign. Bianca is the daughter of an infamous alchemist and a neighborhood white witch who combines her knowledge of plants and rudimentary chemistry to make medicines and also to solve murders. Instead of a historical series set in the Tudor court, I concentrate on the stories and struggles of commoners. My forthcoming book, The Alchemist of Lost Souls released on April 30. I’m currently finishing work on the fifth and final book in the series, The Lost Boys of London.

Sounds like you are quite productive. 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?

I have a few ideas for new books, but haven’t decided which to do first. Probably, I will concentrate on writing a standalone novel set in Tudor London, since I’ve created a niche for myself and people familiar with my writing are expecting more Tudor stories. Basically, I will just sit down and keep writing.

That’s a great plan. What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

Readers who like my series have an interest in historical fiction and are open to me mixing in a little superstition and creepiness. My work is often described as ‘atmospheric’ and that folks feel immersed in the time, like they have been dumped on the streets right alongside Bianca. I hope to stretch people’s imagination and entertain at the same time.

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

Learn to deal with rejection. Enter contests and learn to sift through critiques to figure out what is helpful, then ignore the rest. Never think you are a special flower.

I’m sure that’s good advice. What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

I wrote for over 25 years before I got picked up by a traditional publisher. I was rejected by 86 literary agents before I found one who believed in me. He sold the book to the second publisher who saw it. I thought after all this time and struggle, finally I had arrived. You know what? A writer never arrives. A writer must always try to improve.

Wow! That sure is inspiring especially to writers like me who are still trying to find an agent and large publisher, and I agree that writers must always strive to improve the quality of their books.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

I don’t belong to any writing circles, but I do belong to several organizations that have been great resources for me. Namely, the Historical Novel Society, The Author’s Guild, Mystery Writers of America, and the International Association of Thriller Writers. I would also give a shout out to the Romance Writers of America. They have wonderful chapters throughout the US and sponsor contests and workshops.

Those are great groups. I’m a member of International Thriller Writers and a few other groups including Sisters-in-Crime which you didn’t mention but is also a terrific group for female mystery authors.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I run a berry farm with my husband and we make specialty jams from our own fruit. It’s a business, but I love being outside and taking care of my ‘children’—180 blueberry bushes, raspberries, plums, etc. I also took up piano a few years ago, and I listen to political podcasts.

The berry farm sounds delightful. I love berries and just attended a strawberry festival. I’ve also played some piano but sadly haven’t done so for many years.

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

What I like most, is that rare moment when I feel really happy with what I’ve written. When I’m finished with a manuscript and can say, ‘Yup, that’s pretty damn good.’ I’m very critical of my writing so, like I said, it’s pretty special when I feel that.

What I hate the most is writing under a deadline. I put a lot of pressure on myself anyway, so a deadline feels like I’m sitting in a pressure box trying to be creative. I’m not a fast writer.

I think the toughest challenge is reminding myself that I can do this. Everyday I have to give myself a pep talk.

I also get a rush when I finish a book I’m particularly happy with such as my latest release, Sea Scope, which really came together very well in my opinion. I can understand why you hate deadlines and have to give yourself a pep talk. I think most authors feel that way.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

I don’t think of my series as a cozy series per se. There are cozy elements to it, like having an amateur sleuth and a returning cast of characters. I do enjoy working out the cast of characters and involving them in the unfolding plot.

I feel that way about my books. I didn’t feel the first one in my series was a cozy. I thought of it more like romantic suspense but, as I continued the series, it’s become cozier. I consider Sea Scope a psychological mystery. It definitely isn’t a cozy because of the themes it contains, but it has a few cozy elements.

Can you share a short excerpt from your latest title?

Meddybemps tried cajoling her out of silence. “What are you making?” the girl had a generous helping of black bile coursing through her veins at any given time, and the best way to squelch its influence was to get her to talk about her latest experiment.

“This isn’t for market. It is for me.”

“You? I daresay you rarely need your remedies.”

“I do now.”

Meddybemps tipped his head. “What secret do you keep? Prithee, what ails?”

With the blade of her knife, Bianca swept the herbs into a pan. “It is no illness, but a condition. One that shall pass in time.”

Her hint fed his curiosity and the iris of his errant eye appeared to skip. Taking a moment to study her, he asked, “Are you with child?”

Bianca checked the firebox of her stove and craped out the ashes.

“Go to!” said Meddybemps. He danced a little jig, his bony elbows and knees jutting all akimbo like a skeleton. He took hold of Bianca’s hands and danced her around the room, twirling her once and making her smile. He looked so foolish, how could she not?

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

I think if folks are open to a fast, fun, read with a bit of history and creep thrown in, then they will enjoy the series. I touch a few nerves with these stories and reactions run the gamut. There is some mild explicit language and a little bit of squish.

Thanks, Mary. That concludes our interview, and I’ve enjoyed chatting with you. I’m including more information about your blog tour below. Best wishes on your new release.

The Alchemist of Lost Souls
(A Bianca Goddard Mystery)
by Mary Lawrence

About the Book

The Alchemist of Lost Souls (A Bianca Goddard Mystery)
Historical Mystery
4th in Series
Kensington (April 30, 2019)
ISBN-10: 1496715314
ISBN-13: 978-1496715319
Digital ASIN: B07G6R99SR

A dangerous element discovered by Bianca Goddard’s father falls into the wrong hands . . . leading to a chain of multiple murders.

Spring 1544: Now that she is with child, Bianca is more determined than ever to distance herself from her unstable father. Desperate to win back the favor of King Henry VIII, disgraced alchemist Albern Goddard plans to reveal a powerful new element he’s discovered–one with deadly potential. But when the substance is stolen, he is panicked and expects his daughter to help.

Soon after, a woman’s body is found behind the Dim Dragon Inn, an eerie green vapor rising from her breathless mouth. To her grave concern, Bianca has reason to suspect her own mother may be involved in the theft and the murder. As her husband John is conscripted into King Henry’s army to subdue Scottish resistance, Bianca must navigate a twisted and treacherous path among alchemists, apothecaries, chandlers, and scoundrels–to find out who among them is willing to kill to possess the element known as lapis mortem, the stone of death . . .

About the Author

Mary Lawrence lives and farms in Maine and worked in the medical field for over twenty-five years before publishing her debut mystery, The Alchemist’s Daughter (Kensington, 2015). The book was named by Suspense Magazine as a “Best Book of 2015” in the historical mystery category. Her articles have appeared in several publications most notably the national news blog, The Daily Beast. The Bianca Goddard Mystery series also includes Death of an Alchemist, Death at St. Vedast, The Alchemist of Lost Souls, and the fifth title for 2020.

Website: www.marylawrencebooks.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marylawrence.author/

Twitter: @mel59lawrence

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/84420.Mary_Lawrence

Purchase links: Amazon Barnes & Noble

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

June 3 – I’m All About Books – GUEST POST

June 3 – Reading Reality – REVIEW

June 4 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 4 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT with EXCERPT

June 5 – The Editing Pen – REVIEW

June 5 – The Book’s the Thing– SPOTLIGHT with EXCERPT

June 6 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT

June 6 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT with EXCERPT

June 7 – A Blue Million Books – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 7 – Kelly P’s Blog – SPOTLIGHT

June 8 – Readeropolis – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 9 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

June 9 – Rosepoint Publishing – REVIEW

June 10 – LibriAmoriMiei – REVIEW

June 11 – A Chick Who Reads – REVIEW

June 11 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT

June 12 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

June 12 – Ebook Addicts – REVIEW

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mystery, New Releases

Spotlight For Drowning Lessons, A Red Frog Beach Mystery, by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds

Posted on May 30, 2019 by Debbie

Drowning Lessons
(A Red Frog Beach Mystery)
by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds

About the Book

Drowning Lessons (A Red Frog Beach Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Self-Published (May 21, 2019)
Number of Pages: ~290
Digital ASIN: B07PZRR8WC

You are cordially invited to a destination wedding to die for…

Welcome to Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. Five days of glorious sun and lush rainforest await the forty guests celebrating Bridezilla Olivia’s dream wedding—but will a murder sink the catered affair? Before anyone’s got time to start working on a tan, an unfortunate snorkeling accident eliminates a member of the wedding party. Maid of honor Lexie Marino smells trouble, and is thrust into the responsibility of investigating, needing to solve the case before her bestie’s trip down the aisle gets tropically derailed. The show must go on.

Lexie’s a little too tall, a little too awkward, and a little too brokenhearted, but she’s determined to nail the real killer. Can this unlikely sleuth stay afloat as she’s hit by wave after wave of wildly entertaining characters, including an alpha bride, surfing detectives, and a high school flame long forgotten? You’ll find yourself laughing until the very end of Drowning Lessons, a debut cozy mystery that makes the perfect beach read. Rub in some coconut oil, dangle your feet in the crystal-blue waters of Dolphin Bay, and sip a cool drink as Lexie discovers the deductive superpowers she never knew she had. Let the party begin!

About the Author

RACHEL NEUBURGER REYNOLDS is the author of The Red Frog Beach Mystery Series. As a playwright, her plays have had been produced in London, Edinburgh and New York. After 25-years in New York City, she now resides with her husband between London and St Leonards-on-Sea in England. For news about Rachel and the upcoming Red Frog Beach Mysteries, check her out at RachelNeuburger.com.

Author Links

Webpage and blog: RachelNeuburger.com

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelneuburgercreative

Twitter: @rainyday11

Instagram: @rainydaywrites

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18992082.Rachel_Neuburger_Reynolds

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/rainyday11/

Purchase Links

Amazon – Kindle

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

May 21 – Readeropolis – GUEST POST

May 22 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

May 23 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

May 24 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

May 24 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

May 25 – I’m All About Books – CHARACTER GUEST POST

May 25 – My Devotional Thoughts – REVIEW

May 26 – Teresa Watson – REVIEW

May 27 – Books Direct – GUEST POST

May 27 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

May 28 – 4covert2overt ☼ A Place In The Spotlight ☼ – CHARACTER GUEST POST

May 29 – Baroness’ Book Trove – REVIEW

May 29 – Kelly P’s Blog – SPOTLIGHT

May 30 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

May 30 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW

June 1 – Socrates Book Reviews – REVIEW

June 1 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

June 2 – LibriAmoriMiei – REVIEW

June 3 – A Blue Million Books – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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mystery, New Releases

Spotlight For Caught Up In It, A Blu Carraway Mystery, by David Burnsworth

Posted on May 28, 2019 by Debbie

Caught Up in It
(Blu Carraway Mystery)
by David Burnsworth

About the Book

Caught Up in It (Blu Carraway Mystery)
Hard-Boiled Mystery
3rd in Series
Henery Press (April 23, 2019)
Hardcover: 286 pages
ISBN-10: 1635114780
ISBN-13: 978-1635114782
Digital ASIN: B07N7LW9WS

The award-winning diva, C, has got a big problem: someone wants her dead. A team of mercenaries attempts to gun her down in Kuala Lumpur. Lucky for her, Lowcountry Private Investigator, Blu Carraway, is already on the job there for a different client.

Double-lucky for C, they make their move when she’s chit-chatting with him in a bar. Unlucky for the mercenaries, four of them end up dead.

The hunt is on now for the mega-pop star. Where does she go to hide out? The sleepy islands around Charleston, South Carolina—Blu’s backyard. He’s already proven himself once, so C hires the Blu Carraway Investigation Agency to protect her for real.

The job takes Blu halfway around the world and several cities in between. The search for the truth reveals what could drive a person to want someone else dead.

And Blu Carraway ends up right in the way.

About the Author

David Burnsworth became fascinated with the Deep South at a young age. After a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tennessee and fifteen years in the corporate world, he made the decision to write a novel. He is the author of both the Brack Pelton and the Blu Carraway Mystery Series. Having lived in Charleston on Sullivan’s Island for five years, the setting was a foregone conclusion. He and his wife call South Carolina home.

Author Links

Website Facebook Twitter GoodReads

Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N – Kobo

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

May 20 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

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

May 22 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

May 23 – I’m All About Books – SPOTLIGHT

May 24 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT

May 25 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT

May 26 – Cozy Up With Kathy – GUEST POST

May 27 – 4covert2overt ☼ A Place In The Spotlight ☼ – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

May 28 – Mallory Heart’s Cozies – REVIEW

May 28 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT

May 29 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

May 30 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

May 31 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

May 31 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW

June 1 – ❧Defining Ways❧ – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

June 2 – T’s Stuff – SPOTLIGHT

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Cozy Mysteries, New Releases

Recipe and Spotlight for For Murder by the Sea, A By The Sea Mystery, by Kathleen Bridge

Posted on May 25, 2019 by Debbie

MURDER BY THE SEA

(Chef Pierre is a character in the books)

Classic Desserts with a French Twist from the Chef Pierre Montague Cookbook

Chocolate Mousse

Serves 8

8 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 tsp. instant espresso or instant coffee
2 c. chilled heavy cream

Put chocolate and espresso in a bowl that fits into a saucepan. Take a water-filled pan and put bowl inside it. Bowl cannot touch the water. Over medium heat, melt the chocolate/espresso, about 5 minutes (water should

simmer, not boil). Remove from heat and set aside. In large bowl, beat cream on medium speed until slightly thickened (30 seconds). Add chocolate mixture, beat another minute until soft peaks form. Spoon mixture into 8 serving cups or glasses (I prefer sundae glasses). Chill until ready to serve.

Alternatively, chill in 1 bowl, pass at table, and have guests serve themselves.

Optional: Top with whipped cream.

Murder by the Sea
(A By the Sea Mystery)
by Kathleen Bridge

About the Book

Murder by the Sea (A By the Sea Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Kensington Publishing Corporation (May 21, 2019)
Paperback: 204 pages
ISBN-10: 1516105257
ISBN-13: 978-1516105250
Digital ASIN: B07GV1CM3G

When a murderer crashes a masquerade ball, it’s up to Liz to unmask the killer . . .

It’s been quite a year for novelist Liz Holt. She’s overcome a lot and is finally feeling at peace with her new life at her family’s hotel, the Indialantic by the Sea, on the beautiful barrier island of Melbourne Beach, Florida. She’s exactly where she needs to be to ring in the New Year at the Florida Writes Literary Masquerade Ball.

But when her ex-boyfriend surprises her at the ball, she can’t disguise her anger, and the two engage in a very public argument. Naturally, after her ex is found dead on the hotel grounds, shot through the heart, Liz tops the suspect list. With the help of family and friends, she needs to clear her name before the real killer waltzes away scot-free . . .

Recipes included!

About the Author

Kathleen Bridge started her writing career working at the State News, the student newspaper of Michigan State University. She is an antiques dealer on Long Island and the author and photographer of an antique reference guide, Lithographed Paper Toys, Books, and Games.

Author Links:

Website – http://www.kathleenbridge.com/

Twitter- https://twitter.com/kathleenbridge

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

Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/KathleenBridgeG/

GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10191011.Kathleen_Bridge

Purchase Links

Amazon – B&N – Kobo – Google Play

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

May 20 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

May 20 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT