Séances are for Suckers - A Review

Review

SEANCES ARE FOR SUCKERS by Tamara Berry

The First Eleanor Wilde Mystery

After realizing that being a regular ghost hunter can't pay the bills Eleanor Wilde changes tactics. Now she's Madame Eleanor of Eleanor's Cleansing Service. While her brother considers her a con artist, Ellie believes being a fake medium is the only way to earn enough money to pay for their sister's care. Intrigued by the cynical Nicholas Hartford III, and knowing she'll be paid a tidy sum, Eleanor agrees to go to England to "get rid" of Xavier, a ghost his mother believes is haunting their ancestral home. What she finds is more challenging than a dysfunctional family with rats in the attic. She finds real human remains and hears a voice that isn't there. Will she find a human culprit behind the haunting, or is there something truly paranormal going on? Perhaps Madame Eleanor is not as fake a medium as she thinks! 

Interesting characters inhabit the first book in the Eleanor Wilde Mystery series. Eleanor herself is certainly a flawed protagonist, but one who is smart with good intentions. The Hartford family and its hangers on are also a unique bunch. From a precocious teenager sequestered away, a spry matriarch who does her best to make staying at the ancestral home uncomfortable, to the enigmatic Nicholas, all bring family secrets and suspicion to the table, not to mention the casual butler and real estate tycoon boyfriend. While the characters were flushed out, the same can not be said of the setting. I would have liked more description. We don't even know where in England the story takes place.

I enjoyed the story, but I found the author's use of the present tense to be disconcerting. Using this tense made the words seem stilted at times and preempted the flow of the narrative. The mystery itself was intriguing and I found myself suspicious of everybody, questioning all of their motives, and still being surprised by the ending.

SEANCES ARE FOR SUCKERS is a unique mystery with a paranormal twist.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Séances are for Suckers by Tamara Berry. This book is the first in the Eleanor Wilde Mystery series.

After realizing that being a regular ghost hunter can't pay the bills Eleanor Wilde changes tactics. Now she's Madame Eleanor of Eleanor's Cleansing Service. While her brother considers her a con artist, Ellie believes being a fake medium is the only way to earn enough money to pay for their sister's care. Intrigued by the cynical Nicholas Hartford III, and knowing she'll be paid a tidy sum, Eleanor agrees to go to England to "get rid" of Xavier, a ghost his mother believes is haunting their ancestral home. What she finds is more challenging than a dysfunctional family with rats in the attic. She finds real human remains and hears a voice that isn't there. Will she find a human culprit behind the haunting, or is there something truly paranormal going on? Perhaps Madame Eleanor is not as fake a medium as she thinks!

Much Ado About Nutmeg - A Review

Review

 MUCH ADO ABOUT NUTMEG by Sarah Fox

The Sixth Pancake House Mystery

The Flip Side is doing great business as tourists arrive in droves for Wildwood Cove's Golden Oldies Games. Marley McKinney is pleased to meet many of the competitors and is happy to see that her friend Ed seems to be smitten with one of the reporters. Her delight turns to anger when she overhears the woman admit to using Ed. When Marley witnesses an argument and hears angry comments against the woman she knows that this reporter is bad news. It's more than Ed's broken heart that's at stake when Ivan finds a dead body on the beach. It's not the competitor who fell overboard his yacht and is missing, it's the reporter. And she didn't accidentally drown, she's been murdered.

I was so excited to be back at the Flip Side in Wildwood Cove. Each time I'm dazzled by Ivan's culinary skill and drool over him and his creations; banana nut pancakes, anyone? The sixth entry into the Pancake House Mystery is special in that Marley and Brett are finalizing their wedding plans. But don't think the book is all food and romance. There is an intricate mystery featured here.

There are lots of suspects to be found at the Golden Oldies Games, athletes, journalists, and coaches, as well as friends and followers of the event. Many of these suspects have a history, which Marley needs to uncover in order to sate her curiosity and solve the mystery. While everyone has pretty much given up on getting Marley to stop her sleuthing, she finds herself understanding their dread at her inquisitive nature, as teenager Sienna has got the sleuthing bug and has Marley concerned for her welfare. I had my own theories, but found myself quite surprised at the way the mystery unfolded.

MUCH ADO ABOUT NUTMEG is a well constructed complex mystery. Characters with heart, a beautiful setting, and scrumptious food make this book even more delectable.

A Dead Week Guest Post & Giveaway

I'm happy to let Kelly Brakenhoff take over Cozy Up With Kathy today. Kelly writes the Cassandra Soto Mystery series. Dead Week is the second book in the series.

When was the last time you wrote a book review? 

Before I became an author, occasionally I posted book reviews on Amazon or Goodreads if I especially loved the book. Otherwise, I didn’t really think about them.

Except I’m a huge online shopper.

When I’m shopping for gifts, clothes, or gear, I always check reviews. I want to know about quality, fit, and overall satisfaction. Say I’m deciding between two dresses. One of them has good reviews, and the other option has few or bad reviews. I will always choose the dress with better reviews.

Your opinion matters.

Most importantly, your reviews help fellow readers. For example, I’m short and my feet are kind of wide. I love it when fellow shoppers tell me that a dress is long, or that shoes fit smaller than expected.

In your review, write one or two things about you and why the book was a good fit. The next person who’s considering that book can read your review and decide if it will fit them, too. You’re saving other readers time. If you comment about why you connected to the book, someone coming along after you might buy the book because they’re looking for exactly the same experience you had.

I like to know what’s trendy.

I like to read the latest best sellers or see the movies and TV shows everyone is talking about at work. Bookstore algorithms promote books with more reviews. Media outlets are on the lookout for new trends and best sellers. Once a book has caught enough attention from readers, momentum takes over. Your opinion can influence someone else’s next “must read.”

Do you have favorite authors?

Book reviews affect more than you might guess. Has this happened to you before? A new restaurant comes to town and you’re excited to eat there the first time. There’s great food, a fun atmosphere, and you feel like your town is lucky to have a place like that. Months go by and one day you drive by and notice a closed sign in the window. I’m horrible about this myself. My family doesn’t eat out very often. I always feel bad when a place that seemed promising closes within the first year because of a lack of loyal customers.

Publishers decide whether to offer contracts to authors with large fan bases over unknown authors with few followers. Large numbers of reviews and fans can help authors get interviewed on podcasts, TV news shows, or online book clubs. If we want our favorite authors to continue writing stories year after year, we have to show our support, by buying their books, borrowing them from the library, and interacting with them on social media.

What can you do?

Professional editorial reviews can be several paragraphs long. They might include a brief summary of the book, analysis of the best features, and finish it off with an enthusiastic flourish about what kind of reader would love it, too.

Your review doesn’t have to be a master’s thesis. Just write one or two sentences from the heart about one thing that connected with you. Then write what kind of reader might like the book, too.

I keep track of books I’ve read on Goodreads.

The last review I left was for a Lynette Eason romantic suspense novel called Oath of Honor. Here’s what I wrote. “This was my first Lynette Eason book, but it certainly won't be my last! An action-packed mystery with great characters, a romantic sub-plot, and a healthy dose of suspense hooked me all the way. Can’t wait to read more about the families introduced in this series.” Short, sweet and enthusiastic. If you haven’t read her before, you should!

My favorite part of posting my library on Goodreads is that it automatically reminds me to rate and review a book once I’ve finished reading. I like thinking that I’m helping other readers and writers find their next great match. Happy reading and reviewing in 2020!

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Dead Week (A Cassandra Sato Mystery) by Kelly Brakenhoff

About Dead Week

 

Dead Week (A Cassandra Sato Mystery) 

Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series  

Setting - Nebraska  

Publisher: Emerald Prairie Press (December 7, 2019)  

Paperback: 322 pages

Will Dead Week kill Cassandra’s career?

VP of Student Affairs Cassandra Sato has a desk full of problems and it’s not even Thanksgiving break.

A student’s injury and a deaf advocacy project brings national media attention to underfunded Morton College.

Cassandra's new boss talks to her dead husband. Cassandra’s mentor thinks he’s a superhero in a senior citizen’s body. And Cassandra, recently moved from Hawai'i, can't crack the code of what to wear during November in Nebraska.

Is there more to the Vietnam-era story of a student's death? Cassandra's search for the long-buried truth stirs up the wrath of those who want to keep the past forgotten.

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. Her first novel, Death by Dissertation, kicked off the Cassandra Sato Mystery Series. She also wrote Never Mind, first in a children’s picture book series featuring Duke the Deaf Dog. She serves on the Board of Editors for the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf publication, VIEWs. The mother of four young adults and two dogs, Kelly and her husband call Nebraska home.

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  
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kelly-brakenhoff  
GoodReads - https://www.goodreads.com/kellybrak

Purchase Link – Amazon

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Survival Can Be Deadly - An Interview & Giveaway

I'm happy to welcome Charlotte Stuart to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Charlotte writes the Cameron Chandler Mystery series. Survival Can be Deadly is the first in the series.

Kathy: In Survival Can be Deadly Cameron Chandler's search for a runaway leads her to a survivalist camp. Have you ever known someone is a survivalist camp? Have you ever been to one?

CS: I’ve knew a survivalist couple, but I’ve never been to a survivalist camp. I have, however, been to a commune that was cut off from city life. I used that as the model for my survivalist camp.


Kathy: Cameron is armed only with her wits and a Swiss Army Knife. When I was a little girl I was in awe of Swiss Army knives and I did eventually get one. What is it that makes them so appealing? Do you have a Swiss Army Knife?

CS: Yes, I have several Swiss Army Knives, including a small one I carry in my purse. Before the surge of tech tools, they were the ultimate in gadgetry. They are still the charm bracelet of knives.


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

CS: I think of my mysteries as “modern” cozies because my main characters occasionally swear – nothing too strong – and, in Survival, Cameron is eventually going to graduate from amateur sleuth to a “real” private investigator as she has more experience. But the emphasis on positive relationships and family as well as the assurance of a happy ending for most of the characters is a real draw for me.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

CS: Once upon a time I wrote academic articles and humorous boating articles. More recently, I self-published a nonfiction book – Disastrous Interviews: the Comic, Tragic and Just Plain Ugly – to use in my consulting practice. It was intended to make people feel better about messing up an interview by reading about what happened to others and to help HR professionals be better interviewers.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

CS: Survival Can Be Deadly is the first in a series of discount detective mysteries. My idea was that Penny-wise Investigations would draw in middle class people with smallish problems that morphed into murder investigations. The second, Campaigning Can be Deadly, will be out in the fall. It starts with the theft of campaign signs and events take off from there.

I also just published Why Me? Chimeras, Conundrums and Dead Goldfish. I am fascinated by the research being done on growing human organs in animals and am appalled by the illegal organ trade. I think of this book as a lighthearted mystery about a serious subject.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

CS: My favorite character is the cat, Macavity, in Why Me? He is my image of the perfect yet quirky pet that I would have if I wasn’t allergic to cats.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

CS: Not really, although I wanted to write a book that would include action on my favorite island in the San Juans.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

CS: I’ve always wanted to get my work published. I have a quite a few mysteries that remain in boxes in a cabinet.


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

CS: I would definitely want Lawrence Block and Lisa Lutz. I love their mysteries. Add to that Colson Whitehead (The Intuitionist is one of my all-time favorites) and Amor Towles. What a diverse and interesting group.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

CS: The Jar of Hearts by Jennifer Hillier and The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick. Since I belong to three book clubs, I always have another book to read.


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

CS: We live on the water. I love to swim and kayak. I also love to just sit and watch the water do its thing.


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

CS: Cheese (several kinds), popcorn, clementines and coffee.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

CS: YES. In addition to the two I mentioned already, I have a cozy set on the island where I live.


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

CS: I’ve always enjoyed writing. And I love going on walks with my husband and talking about what we are working on. It’s great fun to think up plots and live adventures vicariously. All the excitement without being in danger.

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Survival Can Be Deadly: A Discount Detective by Charlotte Stuart

About Survival Can Be Deadly

 

Survival Can Be Deadly: A Discount Detective Mystery  

Cozy Mystery 1st in Series 

Publisher: Walrus Publishing (September 10, 2019)  

An imprint of Amphorae Publishing Group  

Paperback: 308 pages 

When single mom and recent widow Cameron Chandler takes a much-needed job at Penny-wise Investigations, a detective agency conveniently located in a suburban shopping mall, she grabs the chance to reinvent herself. Her first case is to locate a runaway girl, something her predecessor had been pursuing before he disappeared. Following in his footsteps, the trail leads to a survivalist camp on a remote island in northern Puget Sound. Armed with only a Swiss Army Knife and her quirky on-the-job training as a suburban sleuth, Cameron uncovers more than she bargained for. She soon finds herself in a fight for her own survival in this lighthearted mystery set in Seattle and the San Juan Islands to the north.

About Charlotte Stuart

In a world filled with uncertainty and too little chocolate, Charlotte Stuart, PhD, has taught college courses in communication, gone commercial fishing in Alaska, and was the VP of HR and Training for a large credit union. Her current passion is for writing lighthearted mysteries with a pinch of adventure and a dollop of humor. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys watching herons, eagles, seals and other sea life from her Vashon Island home office.  

Author Links:
Website: www.charlottestuart.com  
Twitter: https://twitter.com/quirkymysteries
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.stuart.mysterywriter  
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19305587.Charlotte_Stuart  

Purchase Links - Amazon - B&N - Kobo - IndieBound

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Currently Reading...

I just started reading Much Ado About Nutmeg by Sarah Fox. This book is the sixth in the Pancake House Mystery series and was released last week.

The Flip Side is doing great business as tourists arrive in droves for Wildwood Cove's Golden Oldies Games. Marley McKinney is pleased to meet many of the competitors and is happy to see that her friend Ed seems to be smitten with one of the reporters. Her delight turns to anger when she overhears the woman admit to using Ed. When Marley witnesses an argument and hears angry comments against the woman she knows that this reporter is bad news. It's more than Ed's broken heart that's at stake when Ivan finds a dead body on the beach. It's not the competitor who fell overboard his yacht and is missing, it's the reporter. And she didn't accidentally drown, she's been murdered.

Dead in Dublin - A Review & Giveaway

Review

DEAD IN DUBLIN by Catie Murphy

The First Dublin Driver Mystery

Originally from Texas. Megan Malone now calls Ireland  home. Enjoying life abroad, Megan works as a driver for Leprechaun Limo Service. For months she'd been the regular driver for Liz Darr, noted American restaurant critic and blogger, and her husband when they visit Dublin. Leaving dinner one night Liz dropped to the ground and died at the foot of the famous statue of Molly Malone. Surely food poisoning couldn't have killed that quickly-and the fish was fresh! Trying to support the grieving husband as well as her friend who owns the restaurant where Liz had her last meal, Megan has some questions. Will her curiosity help her or will it be her downfall?

DEAD IN DUBLIN is a more grown up mystery. Harsher edges show a more realistic city, not a bucolic setting. Our protagonist is mature and has worked as an army medic before becoming a driver in Dublin. This experience helps to make her an intelligent, confident woman with lots of ingenuity. Megan is also likeable. I love her dealings with Mama and the puppies, as well as the detective.

Having never been to Dublin, I can't say for certain, but the author brings an air of authenticity to the work with not only detailed descriptions of the area, but an attitude, as well as the cadence of the language. The effect was that I could hear the sounds and felt I was there, in an amazing place filled with the problems major cities face, as well as the historic charm with which it's also endowed.

DEAD IN DUBLIN is an intriguing mystery filled with Irish charm and a capable protagonist. I look forward to seeing what's in store for Megan Malone...and those puppies she's not adopting.

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Dead in Dublin (The Dublin Driver Mysteries) by Catie Murphy

About Dead in Dublin

Dead in Dublin (The Dublin Driver Mysteries) 

Cozy Mystery 1st in Series  

Publisher: Kensington (December 31, 2019)  

Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages 

In Dublin’s fair city, where the girls are so pretty, murder occurs at the feet of sweet Molly Malone . . .

Ferrying tourists around Dublin for the Leprechaun Limo Service makes quite a change after years in the military. Still, Megan Malone is enjoying her life in Ireland. She likes the scenery, the easy pace, the quirky, quick-witted locals. Everything—except having one of her clients drop dead at the statue of fabled fishmonger, Molly Malone.

Most restaurant critics notch up their share of enemies. Elizabeth Darr, however, was a well-loved international star. She and her husband, Simon, had just had dinner when Elizabeth collapsed, and spoiled seafood is the first suspect. The restaurant’s owner, worried her business is doomed, begs Megan to look into it. Between her irate boss and a handsome Garda who’s both amused and annoyed by her persistence, Megan has her hands full even before she’s cajoled into taking care of two adorable Jack Russell puppies (which she is almost definitely not keeping). But if cockles and mussels aren’t to blame, can Megan find the real culprit . . .before another fishy death occurs?

About Catie Murphy

Catie Murphy, who has written numerous award-winning fantasy and Sci-fi books under the pseudonym C. E. Murphy, began writing around age six, when she submitted three poems to a school publication. The teacher producing the magazine selected (inevitably) the one she thought was by far the worst, but also told her—a six-year-old kid—to keep writing, which she has. She has also held the usual grab-bag of jobs often seen in an authorial biography, including public library volunteer (at ages 9 and 10; it’s clear she was doomed to a career involving books), archival assistant, cannery worker, and web designer. Writing books is better. She was born and raised in Alaska, and now lives with her family in her ancestral homeland of Ireland.

Author Link - Website  
Purchase Links - Amazon - B&N - Kobo - Kensington

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Lavender Toes - An Interview & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Barbara Silkstone to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Barbara writes the Cold Cream Mystery series. Lavender Toes is the fifth book in the series.

Kathy: In Lavender Toes a murder victim is found in fields of lavender. I love herbs and lavender is definitely a favorite. I had a few plants growing beautifully, but sadly they all eventually died. Do you grow lavender yourself? If so, do you have a favorite variety?

BS: I’m a notorious plant-killer. I have some plastic succulent plants on my patio—but even they struggle to survive. I LOVE the smell of lavender and always have a bottle of lavender essential oils on hand. In researching lavender for my Cold Cream Murders series I came across a hardy variety called Grosso. Known for its fragrance it’s the most widely grown lavender in France. I may try Grosso in the spring. Maybe it will survive my black thumb.

Olive Peroni, the protagonist in my series, inherited a secret recipe for magical beauty cream from her grandmother. It requires honey from Soprano bees. These rare Italian bees buzzed from my imagination.


Kathy: Digby, the owner of the lavender field, is also a beekeeper. I'm so glad you talk about the importance of bees and increase awareness on the subject. Have you ever considered keeping bees yourself?

BS: I would love to keep bees but I live in an apartment complex. My neighbors are very nice but I think beehives outside my patio would test the limits of their neighborliness. Actually, that would make a good subplot.

Most people aren’t aware that bees are important to our survival. Bees pollinate seventy of the top 100 human food crops, which supply about 90% of the world’s nutrition. Scientists know that worldwide bee colonies are collapsing because of pesticides, drought, habitat destruction, air pollution, global warming, and more. We really must save the bees.

Readers, please leave a comment to qualify for my drawing. I am giving away two Save the Bees sweatshirts at the end of my book tour.


Kathy: Every book in your Cold Cream Murder Mystery series includes a recipe for a homemade beauty product. How did you get interested in making your own products? Do you have a favorite item you make often?

BS: I became interested in making my own products when I started to read the labels on the skin and hair products I was using. When I researched the ingredients in many store-bought goods, I decided it would be safer to make my own. When Olive and Lizzy teamed up in Glossy Lips, it seemed like they would be the perfect gals to share my simple recipes.

I guess my favorite item—a holdover from my teen years—is my egg facial. I usually slather it on once a week. It’s easy and works wonders. No one believes I’m 102 years old.


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

BS: Drew is the keyword. Nancy Drew. I have always loved cozies. I’d don’t like to read about violence or cruelty. I’d rather dwell in St. Mary Mead or Cabot’s Cove.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

BS: Yes, I do.

Besides my Victorian cozy series Florence Nightingale, I also write Jane Austen light-hearted variations both Contemporary and Regency. I also write Wendy Darlin Capers, magical comedies and fairytale based novels. I have over forty books on Amazon and about twenty-five on Audible. My books are always clean and wholesome—never dark and gritty.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

BS: The Cold Cream Murders: Cozies—Glossy Lips, Smokey Eyes, Soap on a Rope, Sun Scream, Lavender Toes and Grams’ Christmas Baby. Florida based madcap comedy mysteries.

Florence Nightingale series: Cozies—The Giggling Corpse, The Killer Corset, and The Cheeky Coroner. I hope to add to this lovely series in 2020.

Wendy Darlin Capers feature a klutzy female Indiana Jones who joins her handsome but absent-minded archaeologist leading man in seeking and returning stolen antiquities. The zany adventures include: Wendy and the Lost Boys, London Broil, Cairo Caper, Miami Mummies, and Vulgarian Vamp.

Mister Darcy series: Nine contemporary adventures that take place in London. Darcy is a secret member of the modern day Knights Templar. Billionaire Darcy endures Lizzy’s help on his adventures and is always glad he did.

Regency standalones: all feature Darcy and Elizabeth. My Fair Lizzy, Darcy, Lizzy, and Emma, Serendipity, The Gallant Vicar, The Gallant Vicar Returns, and Darcy, Lizzy, and Lady Susan.

The Witches of Longbourn: A screwball Regency romp. Darcy accidentally turns the Prince Regent into a frog. It takes three books to save the English monarchy. Darcy’s Royal Dilemma, Lizzy’s Love Apprentice, Darcy’s Magical Message.

Standalone fairy tale riffs: The Secret Diary of Alice in Wonderland, Zo White and the Seven Morphs, Cold Case Morphs.

The Adventures of a Love Investigator: The true story of my adventures traveling the country interviewing men about women. Genre: Bad idea that got out of hand.


Kathy: Do you have a favorite character? If so, who and why?

BS: I guess my favorite would be Grams Dingler in my Cold Cream Murders series. She’s become very real to me. I can see her dressing in her 1960s outfits and brandishing her brass candlestick as she pursues evildoers.


Kathy: Did you have a specific inspiration for your series?

BS: My life experiences have inspired all my series. Each major mistake I made I filed in my memory palace for use in my “someday” novels. I was three years old when I ran away from home the first time. I spent most of my pre-kindergarten years in the hall closet convinced I could turn into a black panther. I continued to experience my childhood until by age 18 I was delivering babies in Brazil with the Peace Corps. And that was just my formative years. I have lots of material for lots more books.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

BS: I decided to learn what men really think about women. I traveled the country personally interviewing guys for what I thought would be a one-year expedition into their minds and hearts. Six years later I was still listening to men. After 527 interviews, I called it quits. It was then I realized I had to share some of what I learned so I published The Adventures of a Love Investigator. That book worked out nicely and so I continued to take my crazy adventures and turn them into comedy mysteries.


Kathy: If you could have a dinner party and invite 4 authors, living or dead, in any genre, who would you invite?

BS: Neil Gaiman, Oscar Wilde, John Cleese, and Jude Law. I don’t think Jude has published anything but it’s my party!


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

BS: Re-reading Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. I enjoyed it so much the first time I treated myself to reading it again. Also, I’m reading Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman.


Kathy: Will you share any of your hobbies or interests with us?

BS: I sew, knit, and crochet. Until I fractured my spine, I used to enjoy hot air ballooning, falconry, and attending cat shows.


Kathy: Name 4 items you always have in your fridge or pantry.

BS: This is embarrassing but here goes: Haagen Dazs Butter Pecan ice cream. Hellman’s mayonnaise. French Market coffee with chicory, and Belgian Mini Cream Puffs. For the last six months, I have been seriously addicted to those mini cream puffs. They just pop in my mouth and squish down all creamy and sweet. I believe I need an intervention.


Kathy: Do you have plans for future books either in your current series or a new series?

BS: Right now I’m working on Book 6 in the Cold Cream Murders. The working title is Makeover Murders. I’m also plotting another adventure for Florence Nightingale and Poppy.


Kathy: What's your favorite thing about being an author?

BS: Making people laugh. I enjoy knowing I have taken readers on a happiness journey.


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Lavender Toes (A Cold Cream Murder Mystery) by Barbara Silkstone

About Lavender Toes

Lavender Toes (A Cold Cream Murder Mystery)  

Cozy Mystery 5th in Series  

Independently Published (December 1, 2019) 

Paperback: 174 pages

Someone dear to Olive is found dead—toes up and barefooted—in Digby’s Bees lavender field. Olive and Lizzy team up with WonderDog to find the killer. Digby’s hives are home to the wondrous Soprano bees. The little buzzers are the source of the secret ingredient that powers their Nonna’s Cold Cream—a fountain of youth in a jar.

Finding the killer becomes more of a challenge as the gals protect Digby’s bees from a determined land developer who wants the beekeeper’s farm. The clock ticks as saving the honeybees becomes every bit as important as finding the cousin-killer.

While Olive and Lizzy buzz about, Grams, nonagenarian ace reporter for the Silverfish Gazette, takes on the story of a diamond heist in nearby Sarasota. Can the gals protect Grams from another near catastrophe or can the feisty lady handle it alone?

Help the Cold Cream gals solve the mystery of the Lavender Toes while once again bailing Grams out of trouble. And what about those bees?

Every book comes with a recipe for a homemade beauty product.

About Barbara Silkstone

Barbara Silkstone's most current series is COLD CREAM MURDERS ~ GLOSSY LIPS, SMOKEY EYES ~SOAP ON A ROPE. Coming this fall Book 5 in the series: LAVENDER TOES. This series will have at least 6 books when complete. The adventures take place in the imaginary burg of Starfish Cove, Florida ~ a place near and dear to Silkstone's hometown of Redington Beach on the Gulf of Mexico just north of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Barbara currently lives in Central Florida with her eccentric kitty who adores Liam Neeson and chasing lizards (the cat, not Barbara) :)

Silkstone is the best-selling author of both Regency Pride and Prejudice variations, including the popular the MISTER DARCY SERIES OF COMEDIC MYSTERIES ~ PRIDE AND PREJUDICE contemporary variations. All her books are light-hearted adventures based on Jane Austen's timeless tales of love denied and love discovered. "Feel good" tales to warm your heart.

She is also the author of the Wendy Darlin Comedy Mystery series. Five coffee-snorting tales that combine Cozy with outrageous adventures. Plus a mixed bag of standalone cozy comedy mysteries: Zo White and the Seven Morphs, Cold Case Morphs, The Secret Diary of Alice in Wonderland ... and more.  

Author Links:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Barbara-Silkstone-Author-156097004489447/  
Twitter - https://twitter.com/barbsilkstone

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Hems & Homicide - A Review & Giveaway

Review

HEMS & HOMICIDE by Elizabeth Penney

The First Apron Shop Mystery

Iris Buckley's online store selling aprons and vintage linens has been a success. Now she's partnering with her grandma to open a brink and mortar store in Blueberry Cove, Maine. The two have their work cut out for them, for though their storefront has great bones, it's a bit decrepit. Still, they're not afraid of stained ceilings, creaky floors, and spiders. The skeleton in the basement, however, is another matter. Grammie believes the remains are those of her friend Star Moonshine, a young woman who disappeared in the early 1970s. News of the skeleton spreads quickly and Iris is soon receiving threats. Not one to back down she's determined to not only open her store, but discover just what happened to Star all those years ago.

The first Apron Shop Mystery introduces readers to Iris Buckley, a nice, somewhat klutzy and socially awkward woman with a penchant wearing for mid century modern clothing. She's also not afraid to stand up for herself and is willing to defend herself and her friends. Iris is surrounded by a cadre of good friends and her loving grandmother who make good compatriots in their first encounter with murder. Blueberry Cove, Maine, a small town on the rise, makes a charming setting and vivid descriptions make me want to visit.

I really like that the mystery starts with a cold case. The skeleton is easily identified, but no one knows her real name. I appreciate how Iris and her friends piece together the puzzle of who Star Moonshine really is with old memories, pictures, diaries, and research. And I love how that research led to a unique former commune with a Shakespearean theme and my favorite characters, Alfie, Trooper, and Bacon. I certainly hope we see more of them in future books!

With a multilayered plot and unique characters with flair HEMS & HOMICIDE makes a solid start to a new series.

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Hems & Homicide (Apron Shop Series) by Elizabeth Penney

About Hems & Homicide

 

Hems & Homicide (Apron Shop Series) 

Cozy Mystery 1st in Series  

Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks (December 31, 2019)  

Mass Market Paperback: 288 pages

Welcome to the first in the Apron Shop mystery series by Elizabeth Penney, set in the quaint village of Blueberry Cove, Maine where an expert seamstress turned amateur sleuth is getting measured for murder. . .

Iris Buckley is sew ready for a change. After the death of her beloved grandfather, Iris decides to stay in her Maine hometown to help out her widowed grandmother, Anne—and bring her online hand-made apron designs to real-time retail life. Her and Anne’s shop, Ruffles & Bows, is set to include all the latest and vintage linen fashions, a studio for sewing groups and classes, and a friendly orange cat. The only thing that they were not planning to have on the property? A skeleton in the basement.

Anne recognizes the remains of an old friend, and when a second body shows up in the apron shop—this time their corrupt landlord, whom Anne had been feuding with for decades—she becomes a prime suspect. Now, it’s up to Iris to help clear her name. Enlisting the help of her old high-school crush Ian Stewart who, like certain fabrics, has only gotten better-looking with age and her plucky BFF Madison Morris, Iris must piece together an investigation to find out who the real killer is. . .and find a way to keep her brand-new business from being scrapped in the process.

About Elizabeth Penney

Elizabeth Penney is an author, entrepreneur, and local food advocate living in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. In addition to writing full-time, she operates a small farm. Elements that often appear in her novels include vintage summer cottages, past/present mysteries, and the arts. She is represented by the fabulous Elizabeth Bewley at Sterling Lord Literistic.

Elizabeth's writing credits include over twenty mysteries, short stories, and hundreds of business articles. A former consultant and nonprofit executive, she holds a BS and an MBA. She's also written screenplays with her musician husband.

She loves walking in the woods, kayaking on quiet ponds, trying new recipes, and feeding family and friends.

Author Links:
Webpage: www.elizabethpenneyauthor.com  
Twitter: @liz2penney  
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7877413.Elizabeth_Penney  
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Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Hems & Homicide by Elizabeth Penney. This book is the first in the Apron Shop Mystery series and was released last month.

Iris Buckley's online store selling aprons and vintage linens has been a success. Now she's partnering with her grandma to open a brink and mortar store in Blueberry Cove, Maine. The two have their work cut out for them, for though their storefront has great bones, it's a bit decrepit. Still, they're not afraid of stained ceilings, creaky floors, and spiders. The skeleton in the basement, however, is another matter. Grammie believes the remains are those of her friend Star Moonshine, a young woman who disappeared in the early 1970s. News of the skeleton spreads quickly and Iris is soon receiving threats. Not one to back down she's determined to not only open her store, but discover just what happened to Star all those years ago.

Silenced in Sequins - A Review & Giveaway

Review

SILENCED IN SEQUINS by Debra Sennefelder

The Second Resale Boutique Mystery

Kelly Quinn is not in the Christmas mood. Her dreams of increased business and popularity after receiving several items on consignment from a reality TV star turn into a nightmare when the two dueling reality "ladies" battle after one shows up wearing the other's cast off clothing! When one of them vows to destroy Kelly's business, Kelly wants to find a way to make things better, but what she finds is the Long Island Lady's dead body! Now the prime suspect wants Kelly to help her, the producer wants her on the show, and the detective in charge wants her away from her investigation and her brother! All that combined with discovering a secret from her late Granny that could uproot Kelly and all she's worked for, it's no wonder Kelly can't find her holiday spirit.

SILENCED IN SEQUINS deals with secrets. Not only do the cast and crew of the Long Island Ladies have secrets, Kelly's late granny has a whopper of one. Indeed the plot hinges upon how people deal with these secrets.

The second Resale Boutique Mystery showcases a wide variety of characters, those you like, those that pique your interest, and those you love to hate, or at least really really dislike. Kelly is likeable. She's trying hard to build a business for herself, repair relationships with family and friends, and make people proud of her. At times, however, I find myself yelling at her for her lack of good judgement and annoying thought process. Still, she's evolving and I hope she continues to grow as the series progresses.

SILENCED IN SEQUINS brings together guilty pleasures, lifestyles of the rich and wanna be famous, and murder in a charming mystery.

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Silenced in Sequins (A Resale Boutique Mystery) by Debra Sennefelder

About Silenced in Sequins

 

Silenced in Sequins (A Resale Boutique Mystery) 

Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series  

Publisher: Lyrical Press (January 7, 2020)  

Print Length 256 Pages 

Former Manhattan fashion buyer Kelly Quinn is turning her grandmother’s outdated consignment shop into her quaint hometown’s hot spot for upscale style—until her second-hand couture makes the scene of an ice-cold crime . . .

With her bottom line looking a little threadbare, Kelly is going all out to promote the Lucky Cove Resale Boutique. She’s counting on Black Friday to recover her start-up expenses—including a website and an advertising blitz. But the publicity is overkill when two warring divas, and one sparkly evening dress, thrust Kelly and her fledgling business into a scandal she can’t afford.

The gorgeous garment came to Kelly from the walk-in closets of Wendy Johnson, one of reality TV’s Long Island Ladies. When Wendy’s former co-star, Diana Delacourte, graces a Christmas gala in the dress that was once her rival’s, a very public catfight ensues. But is Wendy to blame when sequin-clad Diana turns up dead? Dodging the show’s ever-present cameras—and a detective’s stern warnings—Kelly hunts for a killer before the powerful celebrity-suspect makes good on her threats and rips her to shreds . . .

About Debra Sennefelder

 
Debra Sennefelder, the author of the Food Blogger Mystery series and the Resale Boutique Mystery series, is an avid reader who reads across a range of genres, but mystery fiction is her obsession. Her interest in people and relationships is channeled into her novels against a backdrop of crime and mystery. When she’s not reading, she enjoys cooking and baking and as a former food blogger, she is constantly taking photographs of her food. Yeah, she’s that person. Born and raised in New York City, she now lives and writes in Connecticut with her family. She’s worked in pre-hospital care, retail and publishing. Her writing companions are her adorable and slightly spoiled Shih-Tzus, Susie and Billy. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, Women’s Fiction Writers Association and Romance Writers of America.  

Author Links: Website – Facebook – Goodreads  

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