Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading The Socialite's Guide to Murder by S. K. Golden. This book is the first in the Pinnacle Hotel Mystery series and was released last month.

Evelyn Elizabeth Grace Murphy loves fashion, movie stars, and solving puzzles. A Manhattan girl at heart, Evelyn has no desire to leave neither the city nor the Pinnacle, her father's hotel. Her every need is satisfied, including solving puzzles and throwing parties. The hotel's latest party is the unveiling of Billie Bell's newest painting. Fireworks erupt however, when a fight nearly breaks out and the painting is stolen. Determined to put her sleuthing abilities to good use, Evelyn is stunned to learn that she is a suspect after she find's the artist's murdered body. Together with her "boyfriend" and her crush, Evelyn will prove her innocence and find a killer.

Death by Puffin - A Guest Post & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Lana Hansen to Cozy Up With Kathy today. You can find Lana on the pages of the Travel Can Be Murder Mystery series by Jennifer S. Alderson. Death by Puffin is the ninth book in the series and was released last week.

Introducing Lana Hansen - Tour Guide Extraordinaire
By Jennifer S. Alderson

Hello! I’m Lana Hansen, a senior tour guide for Wanderlust Tours, a travel company based out of Seattle, Washington.

Becoming a tour guide has been the best thing to happen to me in quite a while. I’ve gotten to fulfill a long-cherished dream to travel the world, and I’ve met so many interesting people along the way!

However, it’s not the kind of work I ever thought I would be doing. My resume is what my mother politely calls “varied” – before landing this job I worked primarily as an investigative journalist and magician’s assistant. It was a string of unhappy coincidences that brought me to Wanderlust. Thankfully, life has been looking up ever since.

Our week-long guided vacations tend to attract the wealthier residents of the Pacific Northwest – the kind that are used to living the high life and being pampered along the way. I feel pretty spoiled being able to travel around Europe and stay in luxurious hotels, eat at top-notch restaurants, and go on fascinating day trips with my guests. Most tours are comprised of ten clients or less and are always accompanied by two guides, in case of emergencies. Randy Wright has always been my favorite guide to work with, and together we’ve had quite a few interesting adventures.

My first tour in Budapest was memorable for many reasons, mostly because it was also my first trip abroad! I had visions of a grey, somber, soviet-era architecture, but it wasn’t like that at all. The imposing statues, tiered-fountains, captivating monuments, delicate spires, and majestic buildings decorated with snow and sparkly lights made me feel as if they were driving through a postcard. Everything was so much bigger than I had imagined. Several buildings seemed to fill an entire city block and many monuments stretched high into the sky, often topped by a stately figure, angel, or knight. It was truly magical.

Unfortunately my first tour was also a trial by fire because my fellow tour guide Carl died under mysterious circumstances on our third day! After the police wrongly accused another guest of murder, I ended up tracking down the real culprit.

Most of my tours have been fatality free, though I have, on occasion, been forced into the role of amateur sleuth while on tour duty. The worst was when my mother was accused of killing one of my clients during our Mother’s Day tour of the Netherlands. I am so grateful to my friends for helping me clear her name.

After leading groups through Europe’s finest destinations for the past two years, my wings are itching to spread a bit more. If things work out as planned, I hope to be traveling even further abroad on future tours!

There is only one slight problem… as much as I love my job, recent events have turned my world upside down. Let’s just say that three murder investigations on three consecutive tours did my head in. Even worse, my boss, Dotty, now thinks I am some sort of angel of death and took me off tour-duty last week!

So I hopped on the next available flight and soon found myself checking into Hotel Puffin in downtown Reykjavik. I hope being here will give me a chance to destress and find direction again.

My best friend, Willow, is convinced that Dotty has got it wrong. She is certain that there is a reason for me being involved in these traumatic events – and that it’s a positive one. Which is why she flew all the way to Iceland to be with me. I’ve heard her out, but don’t yet know if I trust her theory.

She’s got a week to convince me, before she flies back to her family in Seattle. And I truly hope that we can resolve this crisis before Willow leaves. I do love Iceland, but I don’t want to hide out here forever!

************************************************************************

 Death by Puffin: A Bachelorette Party Murder in Reykjavik (Travel Can Be Murder Cozy Mystery) by Jennifer S. Alderson

About Death By Puffin

Death by Puffin: A Bachelorette Party Murder in Reykjavik (Travel Can Be Murder Cozy Mystery) 

Cozy Mystery 9th in Series
Setting - Iceland
Traveling Life Press (November 24, 2022)
Number of Pages: 180

Iceland—land of fire, ice … and murder? 

After a nasty fight with her boyfriend, tour guide Lana Hansen takes a week off work to get her head straight. Fate brings her to Iceland and the Hotel Puffin where she hopes the magnificent natural surroundings will help heal her heart and point the way forward.

Instead of the rest and relaxation she wishes to find, Lana ends up neighbors with a group of rowdy Americans in town for a bachelorette party and wedding. Their joyous frivolity is a painful reminder of her own relationship problems, and Lana does her best to steer clear of the group.

Yet when someone in the wedding party dies under mysterious circumstances, she gets pulled into the investigation. Can Lana help unmask the killer before they strike again—or will this trip be her last?

The Travel Can Be Murder Cozy Mysteries are heartwarming stories about making friends, traveling, and celebrating new experiences. Join tour guide Lana Hansen as she leads tourists and readers to fascinating cities around the globe on intriguing adventures that often turn deadly.

Books in the Travel Can Be Murder Cozy Mystery series: Book 1 - Death on the Danube: A New Year’s Murder in Budapest Book 2 – Death by Baguette: A Valentine’s Day Murder in Paris Book 3 – Death by Windmill: A Mother’s Day Murder in Amsterdam Book 4 – Death by Bagpipes: A Summer Murder in Edinburgh Book 5 – Death by Fountain: A Christmas Murder in Rome Book 6 – Death by Leprechaun: A Saint Patrick’s Day Murder in Dublin Book 7 – Death by Flamenco: An Easter Murder in Seville Book 8 – Death by Gondola: A Springtime Murder in Venice Book 9 – Death by Puffin: A Bachelorette Party Murder in Reykjavik Books 10-12 – More adventures are coming soon!!

 

About Jennifer S. Alderson

Jennifer S. Alderson was born in San Francisco, raised in Seattle, and currently lives in Amsterdam. After traveling extensively around Asia, Oceania, and Central America, she moved to Darwin, Australia, before settling in the Netherlands. Her background in journalism, multimedia development, and art history enriches her novels. When not writing, she can be found in a museum, biking around Amsterdam, or enjoying a coffee along the canal while planning her next research trip.

Author Links: 

Website: http://www.jennifersalderson.com  

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jenniferSAldersonauthor  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JSAauthor 

 Instagram: https://instagram.com/JSAauthor  

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jennifer-s-alderson  

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

Purchase Links Amazon( (US) Amazon Worldwide

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Gingerdead House - A Review

 Review

GINGERDEAD HOUSE by Nancy Warren
A Great Witches Baking Show Novella

Being part of the Great British Baking Contest has made Poppy Wilkinson a bit of a celebrity. As such she's encouraged to participate in a charity event over the holidays. Thus Poppy finds herself in Bath, participating in a Gingerbread House competition. Thoughts of a more relaxing baking experience are dashed when Poppy finds a militant organizer, bad feelings among the contestants, and a possible cheater! When a fellow contestant winds up dead, Poppy will use her skills to not only complete her gingerbread construction, but uncover a murderer as well! 

I love the Great British Bake Off, the Great Witches Bake Off, and Christmas so this standalone holiday whodunnit is perfect. It doesn't matter where in the series you are when you read this as there are no spoilers. Although it may help to have read the first one, even that isn't necessary to enjoy this novella. It's short, so you can easily read it in between your own bakes, or holiday busyness.

Despite it's brevity there's a full fledged mystery with great characters and fascinating descriptions of Bath and its historic buildings which become the theme of the competition. I loved meeting Catherine Palmer and the clever and adorable stray dog, both of whom make the story more meaningful and fun.

Heartwarming with plenty of laughs GINGERDEAD HOUSE makes a delightful holiday treat.

Through the Liquor Glass - A Review

 Review

THROUGH THE LIQUOR GLASS by Sarah Fox
The Fifth Literary Pub Mystery 

Food critics, travel writers, and tourists are descending on Shady Creek for the village's Taste of Shady Creek. Sadie Coleman and her team are hosting a table at the event as well as serving up their literary themed food and drinks at the Inkwell. Sadie can't help but notice one critic has garnered a fair share of hate, from fellow journalists and townsfolk alike. A visit to her boyfriend's brewery leads the pair to discover the critic dead. With someone trying to frame Grayson for the murder Sadie is going to have to pull out the stops to find the real killer.

I'm always delighted to visit Shady Creek, but it's especially nice to visit this picturesque Vermont town in the autumn. Brilliant foliage, crisp air, and murder! I love the idea of the Taste of Shady Creek, especially as it brings in new drama and suspects. Although it was obvious that many people disliked the victim, it came as a surprising twist that Grayson not only had a connection with her, but would become a prime suspect. 

I really like Sadie, but I was ready to smack her in this fifth Literary Club Mystery. I understood why Grayson went into hiding and why he kept his location from her. What got me was Sadie's desperation to find him. She made more than one attempt, knowing she could possibly lead the police to him-and he'd only been gone a day! Her need to be with him was cloying, annoying, and dangerous. Pushing that annoyance away, I did like how she uncovered and followed clues and that she called the police prior to the penultimate confrontation scene.

I also enjoyed the entire ambiance of the book. How the cold rainy weather corresponded with the emotions of the characters. It was fun having Sadie's mom come to visit and explore the many wonderful venues in and around Shady Creek while surreptitiously digging for clues. Sadie's interactions with her mom, as well as her friends, leads to stronger character development. Sadie is growing, even if she can't be parted from her boyfriend for a few days.

Surprising connections, a puzzling mystery, and richly drawn characters make THROUGH THE LIQUOR GLASS an enjoyable autumnal read.

Currently Reading...

I just finished reading Cold Drip by Heather Day Gilbert. This book is the sixth in the Barks and Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery series.

It's Thanksgiving week and Macy Hatfield is excited as her boyfriend, Titan, is coming into town for the whole week. Touring the area, the couple go on a self guided tour of the nearby caverns. When the lights suddenly go out a scream pierces the darkness. Apparently one of the socialites fell down a chasm while taking a selfie. When the woman's body isn't found, despite search and rescue efforts, Macy starts looking into the rich woman's social circle. Will Macy be able to enjoy the holiday and time with her family and friends? Or will her search for the truth put her life in jeopardy?

Trapping, Turkeys, & Thanksgiving - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a Thanksgiving themed mystery released just last week. Trapping, Turkeys, & Thanksgiving by Tonya Kappes is the twenty-eighth book in the Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery series.

Blurb:

Mae West is bound and determined to stay in shape for her wedding day and with all the delicious southern dessert Mary Elizabeth is serving for Thanksgiving Mae has joined the local running group to race in Thanksgiving’s annual Turkey Trot.

She never figured murder would be on the menu and a couple of people she loves have a perfect motive.

The list of suspects isn’t exactly brief especially when one of the governor’s recently pardoned prisoner is at the top of the list. Mae has a pretty full plate between trying to plan a wedding that will satisfy everyone, keeping Dottie in line as well as trying to get a long with her future mother in law.

So what’s a little investigation to keep her mind off things? If Mae’s not careful, she may find herself served up as a last-minute course with all the trimmings.

 

Whiskers and Lies - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a book in a series I love-but am so far behind it's embarrassing...like almost double digits books behind. Sigh. Whiskers and Lies by Sofie Kelly is the fourteenth book in the Magical Cats Mystery series. 

Blurb: 

Baker Georgia Tepper has been hired to provide delicious and spooky cupcakes for the Reading Buddies Halloween Party at the library, and she and Kathleen are meeting to finalize the menu of festive confections. Unfortunately, once Georgia’s former mother-in-law ambushes her at the library and threatens Georgia with legal action, the afternoon of fun is soured.
 
When Georgia’s litigious in-law is later found dead and the friendly baker is implicated, Kathleen is eager to help prove her innocence. Luckily, Kathleen and her intrepid magical cats, Hercules and Owen, have solved their fair share of mysteries. As a result, she knows that in life as well as crime solving, it is all relative, but with hard work, she can make sure the right criminal is booked.

Cowboys and Chaos - A Review

 Review

COWBOYS AND CHAOS by Elizabeth Pantley
The Third Magical Mystery Book Club 

 

The Magical Book Club is ready for another book adventure. With their new member in tow the club ventures into the Old West where they meet up with someone special. With a missing saloon girl and a horse thief on the prowl the club will have to solve the mystery while enjoying the ambiance of their new environment.

 

Surprises abound in the third Magical Mystery Book Club, keeping readers on their toes. I enjoyed this trip to the Old West with time spent enjoying the relaxed setting as well as figuring out the mystery. Encounters with the locals give flavor to the story as the friends search for clues, adding good dollops of humor as well. And then there's the food. I love how everyone enjoys coming together to make great meals...and the fact that there are always plenty of snacks.

 

I love how the book club members embrace the settings of the books they inhabit, from the delight they get from the clothes to the slang they pick up, and the special attractions afforded them. I still giggle at Frank's imitation of a cowboy while having Forest's childhood dream come true made me smile. I also love how they work as a team, recognizing each person's individual strengths and playing to those, but ultimately working together to solve the mystery.

Delightful characters and an engaging mystery make COWBOYS AND CHAOS a fun Western themed adventure.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Through the Liquor Glass by Sarah Fox. This book is the fifth in the Literary Pub Mystery series and will be released November 29. 2022.

Food critics, travel writers, and tourists are descending on Shady Creek for the village's Taste of Shady Creek. Sadie Coleman and her team are hosting a table at the event as well as serving up their literary themed food at drinks at the Inkwell. Sadie can't help but notice one critic has garnered a fair share of hate, from fellow journalists and townsfolk alike. A visit to her boyfriend's brewery leads the pair to discover the critic dead. With someone trying to frame Grayson for the murder Sadie is going to have to pull out the stops to find the real killer.

The Enemy You Gnocchi - A Review

 Review

THE ENEMY YOU GNOCCHI by Catherine Bruns
The Third Italian Chef Mystery

It's Christmastime in Harvest Park, New York and after a year of grieving the death of her husband Tessa Esposito is ready to start enjoying her favorite holiday again. She has good friends, family, and a successful restaurant where she finds joy cooking Italian dishes. The one fly in her ravioli is newcomer Mario Russo. While maligning nearly every other business is town, Mario is too friendly with Tessa. Trying to forget the man who wormed his way into playing St. Nick at the town's Festival of Lights, Tessa and her friends are enjoying the event when a scream pierces the night. Mario Russo has been stabbed. Knowing her good friend and Mario's main business rival couldn't be guilty Tessa will have to dig a little deeper to find out just who wanted the sleazy Santa dead.

Christmastime should be a time of peace, joy, and goodwill to others. In reality it's often a time of stress and frazzled nerves. In THE ENEMY YOU GNOCCHI it's a time of murder, secrets, and emotional upheaval. A victim almost everyone hated provides a surfeit of suspects from suspicious out-of-towners to many of the locals. Almost everyone is acting shifty, but is it because of the murder or something else?

My heart needed a break after reading the third Italian Chef Mystery. From having my heart strings pulled over Tessa's realization of her true feelings and how she deals with them to the pulse pounding action scenes, to the many times I was laughing over Tessa's exploits, and finally my desire to eat all of the calorie rich foods so eloquently described, this book nearly killed me!

One of my favorite books of the year, THE ENEMY YOU GNOCCHI features thrills and chills in an emotionally charged Christmas mystery.

Secrets of the Gold - A Spotlight, Excerpt, & Giveaway

Secrets of the Gold

by Baer Charlton

November 7 - December 2, 2022 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

Concealed in his jacket are ingots of gold; he just doesn't remember why.

A young girl running from an abusive foster home kidnaps the older biker with a mystery for a past.

Leaving the mining town in Colorado and crossing state lines, anything can happen.

What neither is looking for or expecting is friendship.

But in the cold of the desert night, life lessons can go both ways—even if they are not about a million dollars in gold.

Growing up is hard enough, even without the shooting.

 

Praise for Secrets of the Gold:

"kept me spellbound"

Michaele Caso

"you will have a very hard time putting this book down!"

Seth Bogdanove

Book Details:

Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Thriller, Coming of Age, Female Sleuth
Published by: Mordant Media
Publication Date: March 2022
Number of Pages: 374
ISBN: 1949316203 (ISBN-13 9781949316209)
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads | Books2Read

Read an excerpt:

Eight Years Before

Someone unexpected at the front door is exciting—for a nine-year-old girl. But time and experience change people.

“I’ll get it,” she squealed.

The sound of cheap sneakers slapped on the cheap flooring. Military housing, even off-base, has never changed. Expensive big toys were always more exciting for congressional representatives than looking after the troops and their families.

“Check the peephole before you open the door.”

The polished brass belt buckles dully reflected the peeling white of the door. The dark blue of the uniforms wasn’t what she was used to seeing around the base, but she had seen them occasionally.

Pulling on the door, she yelled over her shoulder. “It’s a couple of marines like Daddy.”

The enormous crash at the back of the small apartment ricocheted off the rigid walls and out the open door. It hit the two lieutenants hard.

One with their mouth half open.

The man looked at his female companion as she hurried into the apartment. The man reached for the girl’s arm.

“Mom?”

* * *

The California sun did nothing to brighten the day. The two lieutenants in dress blues stood a short distance away. The casket sat draped with flowers, but only two adults and a young girl filled the fourteen chairs.

The girl’s hazel eyes appeared washed out—more watery-blue than green. The swell of her lower lip slowly sucked in and then released over and over. The blink had nothing to do with what the chaplain was saying. It had nothing to do with her world. The black dress didn’t fit her, but at least it covered the scrapes and scars on her knees. The long sleeves performed the same service for her arms. The rusty blonde hair, chopped at the center of her neck, was the only acknowledgment of her being less than delicate.

The deep low rumble of the officer’s voice left his Minnesota lips motionless. The sound carried only to his partner. “What now?”

The woman shrugged slightly.

“Any relatives at all?”

The woman turned her head slightly. “There’s an older uncle. He’ll be available, possibly in ten to fifteen—if he behaves this time.”

The man frowned and looked out from the side of his eye. They had worked together long enough for the silent shorthand.

“Aggravated homicide with extenuating circumstances.”

His eyes didn’t move. He was waiting for the boot to drop.

“Beat his wife and then cut off her breasts and legs to let her bleed out.” Her eyes moved to lock on his. “He caught her in bed with his best friend.”

The man’s frown furrowed deep. “And his friend? What did he do to him?”

The woman’s eyes snapped to a distant tableau—seven marines with seven rifles for a different burial. “You mean her. His best friend since high school. He beat her to death with the waffle iron.”

They both came to attention and saluted the three-shot salute of the honor guard from across the cemetery. The other funeral was well attended, even though it was unusual for military internment with honors to be held in a civilian cemetery. The passing thought was that the funeral was for a much-loved senior member of a large family.

“Did they cross-check the weapon of choice for a match…?”

If the dead were not theirs or family, they were fair game for lighthearted banter.

“The prints matched. The iron was still hot when he struck.”

The last rifle volley faded away as three riflemen gave their squad leader a cartridge. The two officers watched as the squad leader marched over to the casket and began folding the flag with the rest of the honor guards. The three shells folded into the flag forever. Some thought the seven riflemen firing three volleys was a twenty-one gun salute. But the tradition didn’t come from salutes of Man-O-War dreadnaughts but to let an opposing army know they had cleared the field of battle of their dead. The three spent shells also had a simpler meaning than many thought—the flag was from a military funeral. Nothing more. They presented the folded flag to the soldier’s spouse or parent.

The two officers couldn’t tell the woman’s age through the black veil. The man nodded his chin toward the small girl, who looked frightened by the whole proceeding. After that, they resumed standing at ease.

The female lieutenant spoke softly. “Child Services is picking her up this afternoon.”

“None of the family friends could take her? Keep her in the same school or with people she knows?”

The woman rolled her eyes shut and opened them again as she faced the man. “You grew up a navy brat. How many new schools did you go to before you got out of high school?”

“Fifteen or sixteen.” He looked back at the woman. “Dad was on the fast track. We lived on sixteen bases in seven different countries. He wanted dragons on both arms.”

She nodded. “Yeah. A double shellback. I’ve seen a few. The tattoos become muddy, ugly, and smeared by the time you’re eighty. But by then, who cares?”

***

Excerpt from Secrets of the Gold by Baer Charlton. Copyright 2022 by Baer Charlton. Reproduced with permission from Baer Charlton. All rights reserved.

 

 

Author Bio:

Baer Charlton, is an Amazon Best-Selling author, and a Social-Anthropologist. His many interests have led him worldwide in search of the unique.

As an internationally recognized Photo Journalist, he has tracked mountain gorillas, been a podium for a Barbary Ape, communicated in sign language with an Orangutan named Boolon, kissed a kangaroo, and had many other wild experiences in between. Or he was just monkeying around.

His love for sailing has led him to file assignments from various countries, as well as from the middle of the Atlantic Ocean aboard a five-mast sailing ship. Baer has spoken on five continents, plus lecturing at sea.

His copyrighted logo is “WR1T3R”. Within every person, there is a story. But inside that story, even a more memorable story. Those are the stories he likes to tell.

There is no more complex and incredible story than those coming from the human experience. Whether it is a Marine finding his way home as a civilian or a girl who's just trying to grow up, Mr. Charlton’s stories are all driven by the characters you come to think of as friends.

Catch Up With Baer Charlton:
www.BaerCharlton.com
Goodreads
BookBub - @BaerCharlton
Twitter - @baer_charlton
Facebook - @WR1T3R

 

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews, interviews, guest posts, and giveaway entries!

 

 

GIVEAWAY:

This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Baer Charlton. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

 

 

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

 

Murder at the Majestic Hotel - A Review

 Review

MURDER AT THE MAJESTIC HOTEL by Clara McKenna
The Fourth Stella and Lyndy Mystery

 

It was a very rocky road to marriage, with several dead bodies along the way, but Stella and Lyndy are now happily Vicount and Lady Lyndhurst, thrilled to be on their honeymoon in historic York. Things never run smoothly however, and unbeknownst to them a hotel clerk gave their reserved honeymoon suite to someone else. Forced to accept a room across the hall the couple awake to shrieks of a chambermaid in the hall. She's just discovered the man who usurped their room dead in the Honeymoon Suite. The city's detective is quick to rule it an accidental death so he can get on with preparations for a royal visit, but there are too many unanswered questions for Stella. Could it be murder? In addition to historic rambles and romantic nights, Stella and Lyndy once again ask questions and search for clues looking to solve yet another mystery.

Stella and Lyndy continue to make a delightful couple, better together than they ever were alone. There are more romantic leanings in this fourth Stella and Lyndy Mystery, which is to expected in this, the book centering on their honeymoon. And they are not the only couple in love, for better or worse. Love plays an important role in this story, and not only love for people, but ideals and values.

I love how historic facts are woven into the mystery and I am able to be an armchair tourist of the fascinating city of York. The merging of storylines was also fascinating as I discovered the truth about two very different kinds of cathedral enthusiasts and, thanks to the author's note, facts about Edwardian chocolate!

MURDER AT THE MAJESTIC HOTEL creatively weaves together sinister plots, captivating characters, and historical facts into an engaging mystery. Plenty of action, laughs, and heartfelt moments make this another great addition to this delightful series.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading The Enemy You Gnocchi by Catherine Bruns. This book is the third in the Italian Chef Mystery series and was released last month.

It's Christmastime in Harvest Park, New York and after a year of grieving the death of her husband Tessa Esposito is ready to start enjoying her favorite holiday again. She has good friends, family, and a successful restaurant where she finds joy cooking Italian dishes. The one fly in her ravioli is newcomer Mario Russo. While maligning nearly every other business is town, Mario is too friendly with Tessa. Trying to forget the man who wormed his way into playing St. Nick at the town's Festival of Lights, Tessa and her friends are enjoying the event when a scream pierces the night. Mario Russo has been stabbed. Knowing her good friend and Mario's main business rival couldn't be guilty Tessa will have to dig a little deeper to find out just who wanted the sleazy Santa dead.

Peril in Paris - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a recent release in a series in which I'm woefully far behind. Peril in Paris by Rhys Bowen is the sixteenth book in the Royal Spyness Mystery series. Today is its release day!

Blurb:

What a delight it is to finally be able to enjoy a simple meal again! I have been in the throes of morning sickness for the last few months as Darcy and I prepare to welcome a brand-new addition to our little family. Now that I am feeling better, I have realized I am dreadfully bored! It seems that all my nearest and dearest are off leading their own busy lives while I sit at home and attempt to train our two adorably naughty puppies. Fun as it may be, it is hard not to long for a little adventure, a change of pace, before my true confinement begins when the baby comes.

Happily, it seems that Darcy has read my mind. When I receive a letter from my glamorous best friend, Belinda, Darcy suggests we take a trip to Paris to visit her. It seems he also has a spot of business of which to take care, so I will be staying in Belinda’s flat as she works feverishly on Coco Chanel’s fall collection. I happen to know Coco from a disastrous encounter in Nice years ago, and I am hoping this visit will go much more smoothly. But I soon learn that nothing about my time in Paris is going to be simple . . . or safe for that matter.

Darcy has asked me to take on a small chore as a part of his latest assignment. I am to covertly retrieve something from an attendee of Coco’s show. It seems easy enough, but I discover that this little errand could have terrifying consequences for a world on the brink of war. When things go horribly wrong, I am left to find a killer all while trying to fend off a French policeman who is certain that I am a criminal mastermind. But I have no plans to deliver my darling little one in a prison cell, and so I will muster every ounce of my courage to save the day . . . and, quite possibly, the world!

A Colorful Scheme - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a book that's on my TBR pile. A Colorful Scheme by Krista Davis is the fourth book in the Pen and Ink Mystery series and was released at the end of August.

Blurb:

After a wedding guest’s murder, Florrie Fox sees a picture taking shape . . .

Coloring-book creator and Washington, DC, bookstore owner Florrie Fox is attending the wedding of her wealthy boss and a famous romance author, who are taking their vows—for the second time—on the grounds of the gorgeous Maxwell mansion.  But it soon becomes clear that the soothing vibe of coloring books is very different from the stress and backstabbing in some corners of the literary world.
 
Arthur Bedlingham, for example, barely makes a living despite the many awards he’s won—and his chances for better sales haven’t been helped by the vicious review he just got from another guest at the party. Then there’s an ex–FBI agent whose popular thrillers are a magnet for female fans; a less-successful romance writer; and an ambitious waitress who’s intent on a career in journalism.
 
When Arthur’s assistant, an aspiring writer, is murdered during the festivities, Florrie realizes this is no color-by-numbers case, and she’ll have to sort out the complicated secrets among this creative crowd of suspects . . .

A Book Club to Die For - A Review & Giveaway

 Review

A BOOK CLUB TO DIE FOR by Dorothy St. James
The Third Beloved Bookroom Mystery

Invited to speak at the exclusive Arete Society Book Club, librarian Trudell Becket knows the night will be a disaster, she just doesn't know how bad it will actually turn out to be. When she agreed to speak to the women about how she's circumventing the no book policy of the town's all electric library, Tru forgot that her boss was a member of the group. The boss who doesn't have an inkling about the secret real book library Tru runs. The excitement of her friend, Flossie, and the rudeness of the book club president have Tru in a state, but the biggest shock comes when she finds the club's president dead in the kitchen. Now her boyfriend's mother is the prime suspect, she's having doubts about Flossie's innocence, her father is missing, and robots have invaded the library! 

The idea of a library without books and a book club that censures you for reading unapproved books is an anathema to me. Fortunately, Tru is of the same mind as are many of the citizens of Cypress. I love how "good girl", rule follower Tru continues to break the rules to share the joy of reading books, whatever the genre. 

In the third Beloved Bookroom mystery we see elitism and literary snobbishness as well as cliques and the desire to belong. Duplicitous behavior makes for a confounding mystery that had me captivated. Subtle clues, and not so subtle ones, provide readers with many aha moments...which in one case led me to think I had it solved...and I did solve something, just not the main thing. Doubts about loved ones amp the anxiety while help from unexpected places eases the tension.

A BOOK CLUB TO DIE FOR is a delightful mystery that captures both the humor and pathos of technology and book clubs. The story and characters engaged me from the start and never let go. I absolutely love this series and can't wait to see what happens next!

************************************************************************

 A Book Club to Die For (A Beloved Bookroom) by Dorothy St. James

About A Book Club to Die For

A Book Club to Die For (A Beloved Bookroom)
Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series
Setting - Cypress, South Carolina ‎
Berkley (November 1, 2022)
Hardcover: ‎ 304 pages

When a member of an exclusive book club is checked out, spunky librarian Trudell Becket must sort fact from fiction to solve the murder.

The Cypress Arete Society is one of the town’s oldest and most exclusive clubs. When assistant librarian Trudell Becket is invited to speak to the group about the library, its modernization, and her efforts to bring printed books to the reading public, her friend Flossie invites herself along. Flossie has been on the book club’s waiting list for five years, and she’s determined to find out why she’s never received an invitation to join.

But not long after Tru and Flossie arrive for the meeting, they’re shocked to find the club’s president, Rebecca White, dead in the kitchen. Rebecca was a former TV actress and local celebrity, but was not known for being patient or pleasant. She’d been particularly unkind to the book club’s host for the evening, who also happens to be the mother of Detective Jace Bailey, Tru’s boyfriend. And Rebecca had made it clear that she didn’t think Flossie was book club material.

With her boyfriend and one of her best friends wrapped up in a murder, Tru has to work fast to figure out who cut Rebecca’s story short before the killer takes another victim out of circulation....

About Dorothy St. James

Dorothy St. James is a former Folly Beach beach bum. She now lives in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, with her family, slightly (OK, terribly) needy dogs, and the friendliest cat you’ll ever meet. Author of a dozen novels, Dorothy enjoys writing both cozy mysteries and romance.

Follow Dorothy Online:  

Facebook: www.facebook.com/dorothy.stjames  

Twitter: www.twitter.com/dorothywrites 

 Instagram: www.instagram.com/dorothymcfalls  

Website: www.dorothystjames.com  

Purchase Links - Amazon - Penguin Random House - B&N - Kobo - IndieBound 

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading A Book Club to Die For by Dorothy St. James. This book is the third in the Beloved Bookroom Mystery series and was released yesterday.

Invited to speak at the exclusive Arete Society Book Club, librarian Trudell Becket knows the night will be a disaster, she just doesn't know how bad it will actually turn out to be. When she agreed to speak to the women about how she's circumventing the no book policy of the town's all electric library, Tru forgot that her boss was a member of the group. The boss who doesn't have an inkling about the secret real book library Tru runs. The excitement of her friend, Flossie and the rudeness of the book club president have Tru in a state, but the biggest shock comes when she finds the club's president dead in the kitchen. Now her boyfriend's mother is the prime suspect, she's having doubts about Flossie's innocence, her father is missing, and robots have invaded the library! 

It Came Upon a Midnight Shear - A Review & Giveaway

Review

IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT SHEAR by Allie Pleiter
The Third Riverbank Knitting Mystery

This Christmas may be the best ever for Libby Beckett. Not only has she unseated "King" George as Chamber of Commerce President, but she's arranged for Vincenzo Marani and a small herd of vicuña to come to her shop. As a demonstration for Y.A.R.N., the Gallant Herdsman will shear the animals whose coats will be transformed into the most luxurious and expensive yarn. Those perfect Christmas dreams start to crash when those very expensive skeins of yarn start disappearing and Libby's ex-husband arrives in town. A knock on her door isn't Santa bearing gifts, but the sheriff with news of a murder behind her shop. Since almost the entire town heard her threaten him, Libby may be spending Christmas behind bars.

Fiber, pharmaceuticals, theft, and murder. What do they have in common, aside from wreaking havoc with Libby's holiday? As a suspect, she's not able to think through the possibilities with Frank as she's done with previous murders. Forced to ruminate on her own, Libby decides to let her enemies get close, but in doing so she almost makes a fatal mistake. I'm still unsure what made her confront the killer alone. With only a note saying where she went, Libby veered into that too stupid to live mode. However, doing so did prompt movement in her love life, so perhaps something drastic did need to happen.

I appreciate the more serious undertones here on conservation and the problems with pharmaceutical companies in the United States. I also enjoyed the lighter side with the dogs, vicuña, Libby's mother issues and Grant's dad issues, as well as the heart warming scenes of holiday preparations and friends caring for each other.

IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT SHEAR is an intricately plotted mystery filled with cute animals, lush fiber, and a tight knit group of family and friends. Its holiday setting with baked goods nestled in create cozy comfort, so grab a Christmas cookie and snuggle in for an enjoyable read. 

************************************************************************

 It Came upon a Midnight Shear (A Riverbank Knitting Mystery) by Allie Pleiter

About It Came upon a Midnight Shear

It Came upon a Midnight Shear (A Riverbank Knitting Mystery)
Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series
Setting - Maryland
Berkley (November 1, 2022)
Mass Market Paperback: ‎ 304 pages

A murder in her yarn shop’s backyard puts Libby Beckett’s holiday plans on thin ice.…

The holiday season looks merry and bright for Libby and her friends at Y.A.R.N. The store is expanding for a holiday boom, and she’s gathered Collinstown’s businesses to decorate a community Christmas tree. Dashing “Gallant Herdsman” Vincenzo Marani arrives to showcase the rare vicuña, whose coat produces the world’s most luxurious yarn. It’s a perfect yuletide—until Libby’s ex-husband, Sterling, turns up in town…and then turns up dead.

The murder unravels Libby’s life faster than a hand-knit Christmas stocking. The luxe yarn goes missing, Sterling’s domineering family comes to town, and the vicuña attempt an escape. If Libby can’t stitch up a solution to the case, she may be trading in her knitting needles for a set of handcuffs.

About Allie Pleiter

The bestselling author of over fifty titles, Allie Pleiter's twenty-year career has sold 1.6 million books. Allie also coaches on writing productivity and speaks nationally on time management for creatives. Allie is an avid knitter, confirmed coffee junkie and firm believer that “pie makes everything better.” She lives in the suburbs of Chicago with her husband and the world’s most adorable dog.

Author Links: 

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

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/alliepleiter  

Facebook group (books): https://www.facebook.com/groups/firesidewithallie/  

Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/alliepleiterauthor/  

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/allie-pleiter  

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Allie-Pleiter/e/B001H6IEUO/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1  

To subscribe to Allie’s newsletter: http://www.alliepleiter.com/subscribe/  

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway