I'm currently reading Bear Witness to Murder by Meg Macy. This book is the second in the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series and was released yesterday.
With the town gearing up for Oktobearfest and the Parade of Bears Sasha Silverman and her family have a lot on their plate. They certainly don't need the drama Sasha's high school nemesis brings. But Holly seems to make it her mission to strike out against Sasha by returning to town and opening a store in direct competition with Sasha and her cousin as well as spreading rumors, and generally being nasty. When Holly's assistant is murdered Holly's vindictiveness seems to increase. Sasha also finds herself in the midst of relationship issues between her sister and her new boyfriend, starting a relationship of her own, and her mother's unbelievable attempts to get her back with her cheating ex! Confident that Detective Mason will solve the murder, Sasha nonetheless feels Holly is the catalyst for most of the town's problems and if she has to do some sleuthing of her own to prove it-so be it.
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Male Protagonists in Cozy Mysteries
I saw a post the other day on one of the cozy mystery pages I follow. It was from a male cozy reader who was wondering about male protagonists in cozy mysteries. The majority of cozy mysteries are written by women and feature female protagonists. However, some female authors have male protagonists, and there are male cozy authors who have both male and female protagonists.
So who are some of these male leads?
One of my favorite series is The King Harald Mystery series by Richard Audry. King Harald is actually a dog (male at that) and the human protagonist is Andy Skyberg. Andy is a laid back, ordinary guy whose lovable dog keeps finding trouble in Minnesota. Grab some Biberschwanz Pilsners and settle in for a fun time.
Jeffrey Cohen writes a few mystery series using a few names. I first was introduced to him via his Double Feature Mystery series. Elliot Freed owns the Comedy Tonight cinema in New Jersey where he only shows comedy films. I loved this laugh out loud series, which sadly, is only comprised of three books. Some of his other series feature female protagonists, but he has another male protagonist in his current Asberger's Mystery series.
Tim Myers is another prolific mystery writer. Writing under the names Time Myers, Elizabeth Bright, Melissa Glazer, Casey Mayes, Jessica Beck, and Chris Cavender, Tim features both male and female protagonists. The Lighthouse Inn Mystery series (Tim Myers) first introduced me to this author. I really enjoyed Alex Winston. I also liked both his Candlemaking series with Harrison Black, and Soapmaking Mystery series with Benjamin Perkins.
I love John J. Lamb's Bear Collector's Mystery series. It features retired homicide detective Brad Lyon who now makes collectable teddy bears with his wife.
Miranda James in actually Dean James who pens a few mysteries. As Miranda James he features librarian Charlie Harris and his Maine Coon cat, Diesel, in the Cat in the Stacks Mystery series while as Dean James he has the Simon-Kirby Jones Mystery series set in England.
Terry Ambrose writes a few series including the Seaside Cove Bed and Breakfast Mystery series. These feature single dad Rick Atwood and his precocious 10 year old daughter. Jeffrey Allen writes the Stay at Home Dad Mystery series set in Texas with Deuce Winters. Tim Cockey's protagonist is undertaker Hitch Sewell, featured in the Hitch Sewell Mystery series while Stephen Kaminski has Damon Lassard in his Damon Lassard Dabbling Detective series.
There are several female authors who chose male protagonists for their series. Of course, we have our founding traditional mysteries which include Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot and Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael. Lilian Jackson Braun features Jim Qwilleran, a journalist, in her long running Cat Who Mystery series. The Barnabas Tew Mystery series features a male Victorian private investigator who investigates in the Egyptian Underworld in his first outing by female author Columbkill Noonan. Nupur Tustin features Kapellmeister Joseph Haydn in her historical mystery series while Sheri Cobb South features bow street runner John Pickett in her Regency Mystery series.
I haven't really touched on the traditional mysteries, many with well known male protagonists such as Father Brown and Hamish Macbeth, and I'm sure I've left out many other male cozy protagonists. Have you read any of these mysteries? Do any of these men rank as a favorite protagonist for you? Feel free to share your favorites in the comments below.
So who are some of these male leads?
One of my favorite series is The King Harald Mystery series by Richard Audry. King Harald is actually a dog (male at that) and the human protagonist is Andy Skyberg. Andy is a laid back, ordinary guy whose lovable dog keeps finding trouble in Minnesota. Grab some Biberschwanz Pilsners and settle in for a fun time.
Jeffrey Cohen writes a few mystery series using a few names. I first was introduced to him via his Double Feature Mystery series. Elliot Freed owns the Comedy Tonight cinema in New Jersey where he only shows comedy films. I loved this laugh out loud series, which sadly, is only comprised of three books. Some of his other series feature female protagonists, but he has another male protagonist in his current Asberger's Mystery series.
Tim Myers is another prolific mystery writer. Writing under the names Time Myers, Elizabeth Bright, Melissa Glazer, Casey Mayes, Jessica Beck, and Chris Cavender, Tim features both male and female protagonists. The Lighthouse Inn Mystery series (Tim Myers) first introduced me to this author. I really enjoyed Alex Winston. I also liked both his Candlemaking series with Harrison Black, and Soapmaking Mystery series with Benjamin Perkins.
I love John J. Lamb's Bear Collector's Mystery series. It features retired homicide detective Brad Lyon who now makes collectable teddy bears with his wife.
Miranda James in actually Dean James who pens a few mysteries. As Miranda James he features librarian Charlie Harris and his Maine Coon cat, Diesel, in the Cat in the Stacks Mystery series while as Dean James he has the Simon-Kirby Jones Mystery series set in England.
Terry Ambrose writes a few series including the Seaside Cove Bed and Breakfast Mystery series. These feature single dad Rick Atwood and his precocious 10 year old daughter. Jeffrey Allen writes the Stay at Home Dad Mystery series set in Texas with Deuce Winters. Tim Cockey's protagonist is undertaker Hitch Sewell, featured in the Hitch Sewell Mystery series while Stephen Kaminski has Damon Lassard in his Damon Lassard Dabbling Detective series.
There are several female authors who chose male protagonists for their series. Of course, we have our founding traditional mysteries which include Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot and Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael. Lilian Jackson Braun features Jim Qwilleran, a journalist, in her long running Cat Who Mystery series. The Barnabas Tew Mystery series features a male Victorian private investigator who investigates in the Egyptian Underworld in his first outing by female author Columbkill Noonan. Nupur Tustin features Kapellmeister Joseph Haydn in her historical mystery series while Sheri Cobb South features bow street runner John Pickett in her Regency Mystery series.
I haven't really touched on the traditional mysteries, many with well known male protagonists such as Father Brown and Hamish Macbeth, and I'm sure I've left out many other male cozy protagonists. Have you read any of these mysteries? Do any of these men rank as a favorite protagonist for you? Feel free to share your favorites in the comments below.
Sunday, May 27, 2018
Meet Iris Hooker from Picked Off - A Guest Post, Review, and Giveaway
I'm happy to turn over the blog to Iris Hooker today. You can find Iris on the pages of the Brie Hooker Mystery series by Linda Lovely. PICKED OFF is the second book in the series and will be released June 5th.
Interview of Iris Hooker, Esquire, Brie’s mom, and City of Clemson Attorney/Prosecutor.
By Linda Lovely
My name is Iris Hooker. My husband, Howard, and I have lived in Clemson, South Carolina, for almost a decade. Our move here was huge. We’d lived in Ames, Iowa, our entire married lives, ever since Howard earned his PhD. He loved Iowa State University where he was a tenured professor and couldn’t say enough good things about his colleagues and students. I had worked hard to build a private law practice.
We had a long talk when Clemson University offered Howard the job as chair of the Horticultural Department. While I have to admit that the Clemson offer—a promotion—played a part, family was an even bigger motivator for us to relocate. Brie, our only child, was attending Furman University, a short drive from Clemson, and Howard’s twin big sisters, Lilly and Eva, lived in nearby Ardon County where they managed Udderly Kidding Dairy. Though there was no telling where our daughter might land after she finished grad school, we both wanted to be closer to Brie. And Howard wanted to see his sisters more often.
As it turns out, I’m glad we moved. It meant Howard got to see a lot more of Lilly before a texting teen t-boned her car, killing her instantly. It also meant we were around to provide Eva with much needed moral support.
However, I do have mixed emotions about how that accident has changed Brie’s life. She quit her job as a sous chef in Asheville and moved in with Eva to help her manage the dairy. While it’s not Eva’s fault, Brie has faced danger again and again practically from the moment she moved to Udderly. You’d think an idyllic goat dairy would be a safe haven. Wrong.
I keep hoping things will settle down for Brie once she finishes renovating the decrepit old mansion her aunts bought her. She plans to turn it into a B&B and restaurant that caters to vegans and vegetarians. It would be okay with me if Brie never confronts another killer.
You never stop worrying about your kids. I’d love to have grandchildren, but I know better than to even hint about that to Brie, who is now thirty-three years old. I had Brie when I was twenty-six. Studied for the bar while I was nursing her.
Despite my desire for grandchildren, I was glad Brie ditched that low-life she was engaged to once she found out he was a liar and a cheat. Now my daughter is seeing two men. I wouldn’t mind calling either of them son-in-law. Only problem is she doesn’t seem to be able to make up her mind which one she prefers.
Though Brie is definitely a daddy’s girl, we do have good talks. Of course, too much of the time lately our talks are sparked by the fact she’s gotten snared in a dangerous situation and needs legal advice.
When I’m not providing free legal advice to Brie and Eva, I’m the City of Clemson Attorney/Prosecutor. I spend a lot of time dealing with college kids who get crossways of the law, too often because of underage drinking. I also handle wills, trusts, and real estate transactions in my private practice.
It’s a good life. I can’t imagine a better husband than Howard or a better daughter than Brie. Just wish Ardon County would run out of criminals or at least have their nefarious deeds not involve my sister-in-law and my daughter.
**********************************************************************
Review
PICKED OFF by Linda Lovely
The Second Brie Hooker Mystery
A Halloween themed political fundraiser for Eva's friend, Carol Strong, turns frightening when people start running from the haunted barn. The cause is not the scary decorations, but rather the bloody body of Carol's son, Zach, star quarterback of the Las Vegas Aces. With Zack in a coma, Brie tries to puzzle out who attacked him. Was it one of the local enemies from his past? Did it come from a disgruntled football fan or someone from his team? Or was the attack politically motivated, a way to bring down his mother and stop her running for governor? While Eva comforts Carol, Brie, along with Mollye, Andy, and Paint search for the truth.
Lies, deception, and trust are at the heart of this second Brie Hooker mystery. Who is telling the truth? Who can you trust? There are lots of characters with ulterior motives and plenty of suspects and I, for one, wasn't trusting anyone! The mystery was cleverly plotted with plenty of action and lots of humor. My favorite bits included scenes with Duncan and Rita! I could picture their antics as well as their heroics perfectly! Although not a fan of love triangles in mystery series, I do like the underlying friendship and camaraderie of all three characters. Indeed family and friendship is at the heart of this series.
PICKED OFF is a fun mystery that celebrates friends and family while providing plenty of action and laughs.
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Lies, deception, and trust are at the heart of this second Brie Hooker mystery. Who is telling the truth? Who can you trust? There are lots of characters with ulterior motives and plenty of suspects and I, for one, wasn't trusting anyone! The mystery was cleverly plotted with plenty of action and lots of humor. My favorite bits included scenes with Duncan and Rita! I could picture their antics as well as their heroics perfectly! Although not a fan of love triangles in mystery series, I do like the underlying friendship and camaraderie of all three characters. Indeed family and friendship is at the heart of this series.
PICKED OFF is a fun mystery that celebrates friends and family while providing plenty of action and laughs.
Friday, May 25, 2018
Cobra Clutch - Review
Review
COBRA CLUTCH by A.J. Devlin
The First "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery
Jed Ounstead walked away from the world of professional wrestling, but
gets a blast from his past when his former tag team partner comes to him
asking for help. Someone has kidnapped Johnny Mamba's beloved pet
snake, Ginger. With no chance of Johnny taking no for an answer, Jed
reluctantly agrees to help despite not being a PI, although he does run
errands for his PI father. Now "Hammerhead" Jed is forced to go back
into the world he left behind. With his innate ability to piss people
off along with his determination to help Johnny, Jed soon has a sleazy
promoter and a biker gang gunning for him. He does have a former member
of the IRA along with his dad's protegee on his side, but will that be
enough? Will Jed live to enjoy another banana milkshake?
I readily admit that I am not a fan of wrestling, professional or otherwise, but that didn't matter. I knew after reading the first page that I would enjoy this book...and I did! Fast paced witty dialogue, off beat humor, and plenty of action pump up this debut mystery. After reading this book I'm even open to watching some professional wrestling matches.
Author A.J. Devlin doesn't shy away from the seamy side of wrestling, or Vancouver, but he balances the violence and sordid nature of this world by creating characters with heart. His use of raucous humor also lightens the novel and had me grinning and laughing out loud.
COBRA CLUTCH is a fast paced, action packed mystery with grit, heart, and plenty of humor. I give fair warning though. After you read it you'll be craving banana milkshakes! Now where's the nearest Dairy Queen?
****************************************************************************
If you missed it, be sure to check out my interview with author, A.J. Devlin.
For more information about A.J. Devlin and COBRA CLUTCH, check out the following links:
The
book is available now in Canadian bookstores and online at Amazon.ca
and Indigo.ca. However, the US release has been delayed. But in the meantime US residents can still purchase the book
directly from the publisher at www.newestpress.com
Thursday, May 24, 2018
A Barnabas Tew Interview, Review, and Giveaway
I'm ever so pleased to welcome Columbkill Noonan to the blog today. Columbkill pens the Barnabas Tew Mystery series. BARNABAS TEW AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING SCARAB is the fist book in the series and will be released June 3rd.
Kathy: BARNABAS TEW AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING SCARAB is set in Victorian London. How did you choose this location and time period?
CN: I've always loved London (AND been fascinated with the genre of British detectives in Victorian London...thanks to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, I'm sure!) I'm also fascinated with mythology, and when I had the thought of putting a somewhat neurotic, quintessentially British detective smack in the center of the Egyptian afterlife...well, it struck me as a situation with a lot of potential for fun.
Kathy: Historical mysteries require an extra special brand of research. What's your favorite method to research this time period?
CN: I'm old-school, so I go straight to books. I order histories from Amazon, and I also use the library at the university where I teach. You'd be amazed at the obscure historical moments that scholars have written dissertations on!
Kathy: I've always had an interest in Egyptology and was delighted to see that Anubis is a character in your mystery. Have you always been interested in Egyptology as well?
CN: I've always loved all mythology: Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Vikings, Mayans...I'm fascinated by them all. In fact, Barnabas' next adventure will take him to Valhalla and the Nine Worlds of the Vikings, and the one after that has him working with the Mayans.
Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?
CN: Well, I like mysteries and thrillers, but sometimes you need something a bit more lighthearted. Cozy mysteries are perfect for those times. There's excitement, but you also know that nothing truly awful is going to happen.
Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?
CN: I like to throw some fantasy/mythology into almost everything I write. I see no reason why a cozy mystery has to be confined to the world as we know it!
Kathy: Tell us about your series.
CN: Barnabas is an adorably neurotic character, who gets terribly nervous when things aren't just so. So, when he's thrown into the mix with a pack of slightly crazy Egyptian gods, he has a bit of difficulty adjusting, to say the least! Luckily, he has his trusty assistant Wilfred with him to help him solve the case.
Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?
CN: Definitely Barnabas. He's got an anxiety disorder, for sure, but he manages. It's not always smooth, and he's definitely not cool, but he keeps trying, and that's what's important.
Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?
CN: Not really, the idea just came to me one day: why not insert a Victorian detective into a mythological setting? I chose Egyptian mythology for the first book because there are so many gods and goddesses, which gave me no shortage of characters to chose from. The idea is for Barnabas to go to a different afterlife with each book.
Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?
CN: There was never a question of NOT publishing. I couldn't just leave Barnabas and Wilfred to languish in the depths of my computer, could I? They needed to go out and meet the world.
Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?
CN: Janet Evanovich, because she's hilarious. Leo Tolstoy, because he's not. What would those two talk about? Could she get him to lighten up, or would he have her mired in a quagmire of bleak social observations? Third would have to be Stephen King, to add some scariness to the mix (although he does have a quirky sense of humor too, doesn't he?) Lastly would be Clive Barker; his imagination is so vivid and delighfully odd, so I'd love to see what he'd make of the conversation between the other three!
Kathy: What are you currently reading?
CN: "The Raven Boys", by Maggie Stiefvater. It's the first book of hers I've read, and it's really great.
Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?
CN: I have a horse that I got from a rescue farm, and I love to hang out with her. When I got her she was all skin and bones, and now she's so spoiled that she'll only eat apples that are organic, and then only if they're sliced just so. It makes me so happy that she's come this far; I think it means I've done something right!
Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.
CN: I'm a vegan, so this might be a weird list. Cabbage, homemade ginger-beet juice, tofu, and vegan "bacon" from Sweet Earth .
Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?
CN: Oh yes! Barnabas' Viking adventure is coming out September 4 of this year, and his Mayan adventure should be next year. After that I'm not sure where he'll go, but I know he'll go somewhere!
Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?
CN: Seeing a review on Amazon from someone that loved the book. It's so surreal to me that people I don't know are reading what I wrote, and that they like it! Every time I see a new review I run over to my husband and read it to him. It never gets old (well, to me, at least..he might have a different opinion on that!)
****************************************************************************
BARNABAS TEW AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING SCARAB is highly entertaining
and immensely pleasurable, if somewhat preposterous. A fussy, not too
terribly clever Victorian detective is thrown into the Egyptian
Underworld and forced to deal with capricious gods. It is simply great
fun!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
CN: I've always loved London (AND been fascinated with the genre of British detectives in Victorian London...thanks to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, I'm sure!) I'm also fascinated with mythology, and when I had the thought of putting a somewhat neurotic, quintessentially British detective smack in the center of the Egyptian afterlife...well, it struck me as a situation with a lot of potential for fun.
Kathy: Historical mysteries require an extra special brand of research. What's your favorite method to research this time period?
CN: I'm old-school, so I go straight to books. I order histories from Amazon, and I also use the library at the university where I teach. You'd be amazed at the obscure historical moments that scholars have written dissertations on!
Kathy: I've always had an interest in Egyptology and was delighted to see that Anubis is a character in your mystery. Have you always been interested in Egyptology as well?
CN: I've always loved all mythology: Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Vikings, Mayans...I'm fascinated by them all. In fact, Barnabas' next adventure will take him to Valhalla and the Nine Worlds of the Vikings, and the one after that has him working with the Mayans.
Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?
CN: Well, I like mysteries and thrillers, but sometimes you need something a bit more lighthearted. Cozy mysteries are perfect for those times. There's excitement, but you also know that nothing truly awful is going to happen.
Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?
CN: I like to throw some fantasy/mythology into almost everything I write. I see no reason why a cozy mystery has to be confined to the world as we know it!
Kathy: Tell us about your series.
CN: Barnabas is an adorably neurotic character, who gets terribly nervous when things aren't just so. So, when he's thrown into the mix with a pack of slightly crazy Egyptian gods, he has a bit of difficulty adjusting, to say the least! Luckily, he has his trusty assistant Wilfred with him to help him solve the case.
Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?
CN: Definitely Barnabas. He's got an anxiety disorder, for sure, but he manages. It's not always smooth, and he's definitely not cool, but he keeps trying, and that's what's important.
Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?
CN: Not really, the idea just came to me one day: why not insert a Victorian detective into a mythological setting? I chose Egyptian mythology for the first book because there are so many gods and goddesses, which gave me no shortage of characters to chose from. The idea is for Barnabas to go to a different afterlife with each book.
Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?
CN: There was never a question of NOT publishing. I couldn't just leave Barnabas and Wilfred to languish in the depths of my computer, could I? They needed to go out and meet the world.
Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?
CN: Janet Evanovich, because she's hilarious. Leo Tolstoy, because he's not. What would those two talk about? Could she get him to lighten up, or would he have her mired in a quagmire of bleak social observations? Third would have to be Stephen King, to add some scariness to the mix (although he does have a quirky sense of humor too, doesn't he?) Lastly would be Clive Barker; his imagination is so vivid and delighfully odd, so I'd love to see what he'd make of the conversation between the other three!
Kathy: What are you currently reading?
CN: "The Raven Boys", by Maggie Stiefvater. It's the first book of hers I've read, and it's really great.
Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?
CN: I have a horse that I got from a rescue farm, and I love to hang out with her. When I got her she was all skin and bones, and now she's so spoiled that she'll only eat apples that are organic, and then only if they're sliced just so. It makes me so happy that she's come this far; I think it means I've done something right!
Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.
CN: I'm a vegan, so this might be a weird list. Cabbage, homemade ginger-beet juice, tofu, and vegan "bacon" from Sweet Earth .
Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?
CN: Oh yes! Barnabas' Viking adventure is coming out September 4 of this year, and his Mayan adventure should be next year. After that I'm not sure where he'll go, but I know he'll go somewhere!
Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?
CN: Seeing a review on Amazon from someone that loved the book. It's so surreal to me that people I don't know are reading what I wrote, and that they like it! Every time I see a new review I run over to my husband and read it to him. It never gets old (well, to me, at least..he might have a different opinion on that!)
****************************************************************************
Review
BARNABAS TEW AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING SCARAB
by Columbkill Noonan
by Columbkill Noonan
The First Barnabas Tew Mystery
Barnabas Tew had visions of becoming the next Sherlock Holmes. Apart from having an amiable assistant and a kindly landlady, Barnabas Tew was, sadly, nothing like Sherlock Holmes. In fact, he simply wasn't a good detective at all. However, he did have one satisfied customer who recommended his services. Unfortunately, said services were recommended to Anubis, Egyptian god of the dead, who had no problem bringing Barnabas to the Underworld to solve a kidnapping. Now Barnabas and his assistant, Wilfred, have to deal with a variety of difficult gods in order to prevent the destruction of the world!
I love this delightfully different book. I have always had an interest in Egyptology and enjoy the Victorian time period. Connect these two, add some humor and a mystery and I'm sold! One of my favorite things about the book is the humor. I was chuckling at the situations, and the dialogue, more than once, had me laughing out loud. Great characterization humanizes not only our detectives, but the assortment of gods they encounter. As silly as things sometimes get, there remains a depth of feeling. Barnabas and Wilfred try their best and we admire them and root for them to succeed and be happy.
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Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Currently Reading...
I'm currently reading Cobra Clutch by A.J. Devlin. This book is the first in the "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series.
Jed Ounstead walked away from the world of professional wrestling, but gets a blast from his past when his former tag team partner comes to him asking for help. Someone has kidnapped Johnny Mamba's beloved pet snake, Ginger. With no chance of Johnny taking no for an answer, Jed reluctantly agrees to help, despite not being a PI, although he does run errands for his PI father. Now "Hammerhead" Jed is forced to go back into the world he left behind. With his innate ability to piss people off along with his determination to help Johnny, Jed soon has a sleazy promoter and a biker gang gunning for him. He does have a former member of the IRA along with his dad's protegee on his side, but will that be enough? Will Jed live to enjoy another banana milkshake?
If you missed it, be sure to check out my interview with author, A.J. Devlin.
Jed Ounstead walked away from the world of professional wrestling, but gets a blast from his past when his former tag team partner comes to him asking for help. Someone has kidnapped Johnny Mamba's beloved pet snake, Ginger. With no chance of Johnny taking no for an answer, Jed reluctantly agrees to help, despite not being a PI, although he does run errands for his PI father. Now "Hammerhead" Jed is forced to go back into the world he left behind. With his innate ability to piss people off along with his determination to help Johnny, Jed soon has a sleazy promoter and a biker gang gunning for him. He does have a former member of the IRA along with his dad's protegee on his side, but will that be enough? Will Jed live to enjoy another banana milkshake?
If you missed it, be sure to check out my interview with author, A.J. Devlin.
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
Hightail it to Kinsey Falls - Book Blast
Hightail It to Kinsey Falls (Kinsey Falls Series) by Gayle Leeson
About the Book
Women's Fiction
1st in Series
Grace Abraham Publishing (May 22, 2018)
Print Length: 139 pages
All work and no play make Jade a dull girl.
Jade Burt can do without her grandmother’s meddling in her love life. But when Millie finds an abandoned baby possum, it leads her to Caleb Young. Caleb would be perfect for Jade! When Jade meets Caleb, it’s hard to argue with her grandmother’s choice. Still, Jade is determined to push Caleb away, but his friendship with Millie concerns her. What if he’s a slick con man trying to take advantage of a sweet old lady? Jade needs to figure Caleb out before he breaks her grandmother’s heart…and Jade’s too!
About the Author
Gayle Leeson is a pseudonym for Gayle Trent. I also write as Amanda Lee. As Gayle Trent, I write the Daphne Martin Cake Mystery
series and the Myrtle Crumb Mystery
series. As Amanda Lee, I write the Embroidery Mystery
series.
series and the Myrtle Crumb Mystery series. As Amanda Lee, I write the Embroidery Mystery series.
I live in Virginia with my family, which includes my own “Angus” who is not an Irish wolfhound but a Great Pyrenees who provides plenty of inspiration for the character of Mr. O’Ruff. I'm having a blast writing this new series! But, never fear, I'm also working on a new cozy mystery series as well.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GayleTrentandAmandaLee/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GayleTrent
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/gayletrent/pins/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gayletrentleeson/
Purchase Links: Amazon Kobo Apple
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Sunday, May 20, 2018
Cozy Up With Kathy's Scavenger Hunt
I'm always looking for new and different way to promote books and their authors. I love for things to be interactive and fun and so I came up with an idea. Why not have a scavenger hunt? It would have to be a modified version of a hunt, but why not?
The Cozy Up With Kathy Scavenger Hunt requires participants to take photos which meet certain specifications. Each photo that successfully meets the criteria will earn the reader one credit. Readers can earn up to 10 credits, but it only takes one to win!
The Scavenger Hunt is open to people world wide! One winner will receive the Grand Prize prize: a book costing $8 US or less from either Amazon or the Book Depository. There will be two runner up prizes as well for people with US addresses. These will be swag bags.
I have set up 10 tasks for readers to complete, taking a photo of themselves, or a token that represents them, with a book and an item that represents that book! I decided to ask for a photo of the person or token so that people wouldn't just grab photos off the web, but actually have the items in hand. I'd love for you to play along!
Here is the basic description, along with the rules:
It's a Scavenger Hunt! Now, since we're online, things are a little different. You'll need a camera (or some device that can take a photo), some books (e-books are fine), some items relating to mystery books, and some creativity. I'm going to list "10 things". You will need to photograph YOURSELF or a token that represents you with the mystery book and its related item. No pulling pics off the internet, you must take them (or someone takes them for you). When finished send 1 e-mail with all the photos with descriptions to me at cozyupwithkathy @ gmail.com.
1. A photo of yourself (or token) with the book you're currently reading. This is the only book that does NOT have to be a mystery/thriller.
2. Do you live in a location where a mystery is set? Take a photo of yourself or the same token, something indicating your location, and the book set there.
3. A picture of you or the same token, something indicative of a culinary mystery, and the book to which it relates.
4. A picture of you or the same token with something paranormal and said paranormal mystery.
5. You or the same token participating in a craft, game, or hobby, and the corresponding mystery book.
6. You or the same token with an animal and a mystery that features that type of animal.
7. You or the same token with some sort of holiday accoutrements and a mystery set during that holiday (or a mystery that features that holiday).
8. You or the same token with a beverage and the mystery that features that beverage.
9. You or the same token with a book from your favorite mystery series or by your favorite mystery author and something that relates to that book or author.
10. Choose a book I featured on my blog during March or April 2018. Take a picture of yourself or the same token, that book, and something that relates to it.
You will receive one entry for each photo that meets the requirements. However, they must all be sent at the same time! One e-mail only. One winner will be selected to win a book costing $8 or less from Amazon (US) or the Book Depository (Worldwide). Two runners up with US addresses will receive swag envelopes. Entries must be received by 11:59pm EDT Thursday May 31, 2018. Not responsible for misdirected e-mail.
I have also created a Facebook Event Page where people may post their photos throughout the event. Just remember, posting them here doesn't count as an entry, but rather it's a way to share in the fun!
I hope you'll consider joining in the fun!
The Cozy Up With Kathy Scavenger Hunt requires participants to take photos which meet certain specifications. Each photo that successfully meets the criteria will earn the reader one credit. Readers can earn up to 10 credits, but it only takes one to win!
The Scavenger Hunt is open to people world wide! One winner will receive the Grand Prize prize: a book costing $8 US or less from either Amazon or the Book Depository. There will be two runner up prizes as well for people with US addresses. These will be swag bags.
I have set up 10 tasks for readers to complete, taking a photo of themselves, or a token that represents them, with a book and an item that represents that book! I decided to ask for a photo of the person or token so that people wouldn't just grab photos off the web, but actually have the items in hand. I'd love for you to play along!
Here is the basic description, along with the rules:
It's a Scavenger Hunt! Now, since we're online, things are a little different. You'll need a camera (or some device that can take a photo), some books (e-books are fine), some items relating to mystery books, and some creativity. I'm going to list "10 things". You will need to photograph YOURSELF or a token that represents you with the mystery book and its related item. No pulling pics off the internet, you must take them (or someone takes them for you). When finished send 1 e-mail with all the photos with descriptions to me at cozyupwithkathy @ gmail.com.
1. A photo of yourself (or token) with the book you're currently reading. This is the only book that does NOT have to be a mystery/thriller.
2. Do you live in a location where a mystery is set? Take a photo of yourself or the same token, something indicating your location, and the book set there.
3. A picture of you or the same token, something indicative of a culinary mystery, and the book to which it relates.
4. A picture of you or the same token with something paranormal and said paranormal mystery.
5. You or the same token participating in a craft, game, or hobby, and the corresponding mystery book.
6. You or the same token with an animal and a mystery that features that type of animal.
7. You or the same token with some sort of holiday accoutrements and a mystery set during that holiday (or a mystery that features that holiday).
8. You or the same token with a beverage and the mystery that features that beverage.
9. You or the same token with a book from your favorite mystery series or by your favorite mystery author and something that relates to that book or author.
10. Choose a book I featured on my blog during March or April 2018. Take a picture of yourself or the same token, that book, and something that relates to it.
You will receive one entry for each photo that meets the requirements. However, they must all be sent at the same time! One e-mail only. One winner will be selected to win a book costing $8 or less from Amazon (US) or the Book Depository (Worldwide). Two runners up with US addresses will receive swag envelopes. Entries must be received by 11:59pm EDT Thursday May 31, 2018. Not responsible for misdirected e-mail.
I have also created a Facebook Event Page where people may post their photos throughout the event. Just remember, posting them here doesn't count as an entry, but rather it's a way to share in the fun!
I hope you'll consider joining in the fun!
Friday, May 18, 2018
The Persian Always Meows Twice - Review
Review
THE PERSIAN ALWAYS MEOWS TWICE by Eileen Watkins
The First Cat Groomer Mystery
Cassie McGlone recently moved to Chadwick, New Jersey and opened Cassie's
Comfy Cats, a cat grooming and boarding business. While most clients
come to her shop, Cassie made the exception for millionaire George
DeLeuw and his lovely Persian, Harpo. When she arrives for a grooming
appointment, she finds the front door open and a scared Harpo outdoors.
Inside she finds George's murdered body. Cassie is determined to keep
Harpo safe, and if that means finding George's killer, so be it!
There are so many things I like about this book. I love that Cassie specializes in grooming cats, and wish I could have taken my semi-longed haired cat, Seneca, to her. I also like how she uses her psychology background to help train cats. I enjoy the fact that Cassie doesn't start out trying to solve the murder, but rather she does what any animal lover would do- help Harpo. Of course, in trying to both protect Harpo and find him a good home she eventually ends up working to discover the murderer. There are plenty of diverse characters and enough red herrings to keep readers guessing.
THE PERSIAN ALWAYS MEOWS TWICE is an intelligent realistic mystery which shares responsible pet advice while providing plenty of thrills.
There are so many things I like about this book. I love that Cassie specializes in grooming cats, and wish I could have taken my semi-longed haired cat, Seneca, to her. I also like how she uses her psychology background to help train cats. I enjoy the fact that Cassie doesn't start out trying to solve the murder, but rather she does what any animal lover would do- help Harpo. Of course, in trying to both protect Harpo and find him a good home she eventually ends up working to discover the murderer. There are plenty of diverse characters and enough red herrings to keep readers guessing.
THE PERSIAN ALWAYS MEOWS TWICE is an intelligent realistic mystery which shares responsible pet advice while providing plenty of thrills.
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
Currently Reading...
I just finished reading The Persian Always Meows Twice by Eileen Watkins. This book is the first in the Cat Groomer Mystery series.
Cassie McGlone recently moved to Chadwick, New Jersey and opened Cassies Comfy Cats, a cat grooming and boarding business. While most clients come to her shop, Cassie made the exception for millionaire George DeLeuw and his lovely Persian, Harpo. When she arrives for a grooming appointment, she finds the front door open and a scared Harpo outdoors. Inside she finds George's murdered body. Cassie is determined to keep Harpo safe, and if that means finding George's killer, so be it!
Cassie McGlone recently moved to Chadwick, New Jersey and opened Cassies Comfy Cats, a cat grooming and boarding business. While most clients come to her shop, Cassie made the exception for millionaire George DeLeuw and his lovely Persian, Harpo. When she arrives for a grooming appointment, she finds the front door open and a scared Harpo outdoors. Inside she finds George's murdered body. Cassie is determined to keep Harpo safe, and if that means finding George's killer, so be it!
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
A Visit & Giveaway with Lissa Marie Redmond
I'm pleased to welcome Lissa Marie Redmond back to Cozy Up With Kathy. Lissa's first full length novel, A COLD DAY IN HELL, was released in February. It is the first in the Cold Case Investigation Mystery series.
Kathy: A COLD DAY IN HELL was your first full length novel. How has life changed for you after its publication?
LMR: It’s been a very eye-opening journey. I was overwhelmed by the support of my family and neighbors here in the city of Buffalo, my new online friends, and in the writing community. Changing speeds from cop to writer has definitely improved my health, helped me make new friends, and has broadened my world.
Kathy: In regards to writing, what's the best thing that has happened to you since being published?
LMR: I appreciate all the people I have gotten a chance to meet at book signings, libraries, and book clubs. I still can not believe they want to hear what I have to say! But I also enjoy listening to my readers' stories as well. I’m amazed at the different ways readers have connected with my characters. I love to hear what they took away from my book. It’s the ultimate compliment to a writer.
Kathy: Authors are required to do a lot of their own marketing, especially for a new release. What's your favorite part of marketing your work? What do you dislike about marketing?
LMR: I don’t mind making appearances, doing book signings, or being a guest on blogs (although I have a comma problem that I’m very self-conscious about and try to run everything through a second reader). The only thing I dislike about marketing is there doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to get everything done.
Kathy: When it comes to writing I understand there are 2 general camps-plotters, who diligently plot their stories, and pansters, who fly by the seat of their pants. Are you a plotter, a panster, or do you fall somewhere in between?
LMR: My first book, A COLD DAY IN HELL, was totally by the seat of my pants. Book two, which I’m working on, is a little less so, but book three has already been plotted out. So I’m evolving from a pantser to a plotter as I go.
Kathy: Are you able to share any future plans for Detective Lauren Riley?
LMR: Lauren has at least two more appearances in two subsequent books. She seems to attract a lot of trouble where ever she goes, so there may be even more stories in the works for her. She’s a fun character to write, because she is so unlike me. I get to take some risks with her that I wouldn’t take myself. And I love to take her in some totally new directions.
Kathy: Will you share any other upcoming books?
LMR: The second book in my Cold Case Investigation series is set to come out in February, 2019. Lauren and many of the characters from A COLD DAY IN HELL make it into the book, but I can tell you they don’t all make it to book three!
Kathy: What's one piece of advice you'd give to an aspiring writer?
Write every single day. Even if it’s only a paragraph. Even if you don’t feel like it. Even if you don’t think you’ve got anything to say. Get in the habit of writing and the words will come. Will everything you write be a masterpiece? No, but you’ll learn something from it, even if it’s what not to do. And don’t give up. Writing is a tough business. You have to believe in yourself and your work.
**************************************************************************
Keep in touch with Lissa Marie Redmond with these links:
website: http://www.Lissamarieredmond.com
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LissaMarieRedmond
Twitter: @Lissa_Marie_Redmond
**************************************************************************
One lucky reader will receive an autographed copy of A COLD DAY IN HELL. (Sorry, due to postal costs US addresses only.) Simply leave a comment on this blog post no later than 11:59pm EDT Wednesday, May 16, 2018 answering the following question: Since Detective Lauren Riley has such a rotten love life, should she keep looking for Mr. Right or get a dog? Be sure to include your e-mail address so that I can contact you should you win.
Kathy: A COLD DAY IN HELL was your first full length novel. How has life changed for you after its publication?
LMR: It’s been a very eye-opening journey. I was overwhelmed by the support of my family and neighbors here in the city of Buffalo, my new online friends, and in the writing community. Changing speeds from cop to writer has definitely improved my health, helped me make new friends, and has broadened my world.
Kathy: In regards to writing, what's the best thing that has happened to you since being published?
LMR: I appreciate all the people I have gotten a chance to meet at book signings, libraries, and book clubs. I still can not believe they want to hear what I have to say! But I also enjoy listening to my readers' stories as well. I’m amazed at the different ways readers have connected with my characters. I love to hear what they took away from my book. It’s the ultimate compliment to a writer.
Kathy: Authors are required to do a lot of their own marketing, especially for a new release. What's your favorite part of marketing your work? What do you dislike about marketing?
LMR: I don’t mind making appearances, doing book signings, or being a guest on blogs (although I have a comma problem that I’m very self-conscious about and try to run everything through a second reader). The only thing I dislike about marketing is there doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to get everything done.
Kathy: When it comes to writing I understand there are 2 general camps-plotters, who diligently plot their stories, and pansters, who fly by the seat of their pants. Are you a plotter, a panster, or do you fall somewhere in between?
LMR: My first book, A COLD DAY IN HELL, was totally by the seat of my pants. Book two, which I’m working on, is a little less so, but book three has already been plotted out. So I’m evolving from a pantser to a plotter as I go.
Kathy: Are you able to share any future plans for Detective Lauren Riley?
LMR: Lauren has at least two more appearances in two subsequent books. She seems to attract a lot of trouble where ever she goes, so there may be even more stories in the works for her. She’s a fun character to write, because she is so unlike me. I get to take some risks with her that I wouldn’t take myself. And I love to take her in some totally new directions.
Kathy: Will you share any other upcoming books?
LMR: The second book in my Cold Case Investigation series is set to come out in February, 2019. Lauren and many of the characters from A COLD DAY IN HELL make it into the book, but I can tell you they don’t all make it to book three!
Kathy: What's one piece of advice you'd give to an aspiring writer?
Write every single day. Even if it’s only a paragraph. Even if you don’t feel like it. Even if you don’t think you’ve got anything to say. Get in the habit of writing and the words will come. Will everything you write be a masterpiece? No, but you’ll learn something from it, even if it’s what not to do. And don’t give up. Writing is a tough business. You have to believe in yourself and your work.
**************************************************************************
Keep in touch with Lissa Marie Redmond with these links:
website: http://www.Lissamarieredmond.com
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LissaMarieRedmond
Twitter: @Lissa_Marie_Redmond
**************************************************************************
One lucky reader will receive an autographed copy of A COLD DAY IN HELL. (Sorry, due to postal costs US addresses only.) Simply leave a comment on this blog post no later than 11:59pm EDT Wednesday, May 16, 2018 answering the following question: Since Detective Lauren Riley has such a rotten love life, should she keep looking for Mr. Right or get a dog? Be sure to include your e-mail address so that I can contact you should you win.
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