Sore Like an Eagle - A Guest Post & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Andy Shirley to Cozy Up With Kathy today. You can find Andy on the pages of the Redwoods Country Mystery series by Marc Jedel. Sore Like an Eagle is the third book in the series and was released last month.

Guest Post by Andy Shirley, from Sore Like an Eagle by Marc Jedel
As told to Marc Jedel, who insists on calling himself “my author”

Once again, Marc asked me to write a guest post—like I had nothing better to do than do his bidding. I told him I was busy, but he replied that as a fictional character, I’m not actually busy in real life. Offended, I pointed out that, technically as an author, he’s not busy in real life either.

One of us runs an inn, solves murders, and feeds a toy poodle with a superiority complex. The other sits in front of his computer for hours every day, occasionally cackling to himself. Some might even describe that behavior as crazy, but Marc insists it’s him being creative.

“What-evs” as Charlie or Sindy would put it. It wasn’t worth arguing especially when he began making threats about deleting me. Authors are not always the nicest of people.

Things around here have settled down since my last adventure that Marc exaggerated in Sore Like an Eagle—and what kind of ridiculous title is that anyway? With Thanksgiving over, Christmas is approaching. Although if you only paid attention to decorations and holiday music in the stores, you’d have thought it’s been around the corner for months now.

Whenever things seem calm, I worry something is about to go horribly wrong. Marc thinks it’s great fun to involve me in different humorous murder mysteries—as if murders could ever be funny. With the way the murder rate in the small town of Monte Rio is climbing, I might need to move away from here to stay safe.

Just don’t ask me what’s next. I have no idea. No one tells me anything—apparently, spoilers are bad for my “character arc.”

For those who don’t know me, I’m Andy Shirley, sixty-five, retired copy editor, reluctant bed-and-breakfast owner, and sometimes wannabe recluse. My late wife, Catherine, dreamed of running this inn by the Russian River. I dreamed of fishing quietly and avoiding small talk with strangers. Fate, it turns out, has a dark sense of humor.

These days, I manage the Quilt House Inn with help from my Romanian cook, Nadia—who prepares an amazing breakfast buffet. I believe she could take down a murderer with a wooden spoon. Charlie, my inadvertent and highly unofficial sidekick is the town’s hybrid plumber-electrician. She manages to keep my inn from shorting out or flooding from broken pipes. She’s thirty, loud, and possesses the reckless confidence of someone who’s never had to Google “when to replace a hip.” She insists I’m “too negative,” which is rich coming from someone who has “don’t die stupidly” written on her toolbox. She’s good at fixing things and even better at roping me into situations I should know to avoid. She calls it teamwork. I call it entrapment.

Then there’s Fifi—excuse me, Mademoiselle Fifi—my late wife’s teacup poodle. She’s comes in a petite size but is still high maintenance. Fifi insists on visiting the salon each month for a shampoo and style with a fresh pink bow. In addition she receives a pedicure to finish her look. True to her French nature, she has strong opinions. One time I chastised her and she refused to look at me for two days. Fifi accompanies me most places tucked into the front pocket of my fishing vest, supervising my life like a furry parole officer.

The townsfolk here in Monte Rio are friendly enough, though “friendly” in this case often translates to “nosy.” I’ve discovered that small-town gossip travels faster than lightning. People say the town runs on coffee and rumor, which seems entirely accurate.

When I’m not attending to my inn or being drafted into Charlie’s schemes, I go fishing, head out on hikes, or tinker in my new archery shop. Some men in their sixties buy motorcycles. Given the wet, curvy roads and my reflexes, I feel more comfortable teaching archery to young people. Unlike most people, arrows fly straight and don’t gossip.

Marc keeps telling me this series is “cozy” and “humorous.” My inn is certainly cozy. And while I enjoy a good joke, I have yet to find the humor in his stories—not with all the dead bodies. From my point of view, I’m a retired man who just wanted peace and pie. Instead, I’m chasing suspects, tripping over bodies, and finding clues where I least expect them.

Still, I can’t complain too much. The inn’s running smoothly, the guests haven’t found any corpses lately, and Fifi’s fan club continues to grow. In a flash of brilliance, Charlie added her profile to the inn’s social media page and the number of likes have doubled.

So if you find yourself near Monte Rio, stop by the Quilt House Inn. I’ll be the one in the fishing vest with too many pockets, pretending I don’t like people while secretly hoping you brought cookies. You’ll get a comfortable bed, an amazing breakfast, and—if we’re lucky—a murder-free stay. Just don’t call me “adorable” or “grumpy but lovable.”

Sore Like an Eagle, is on sale for only $2.99 during this tour. It’s available at: https://mybook.to/SoreLikeanEagle.. You can find all Marc’s cozy mysteries at: https://www.amazon.com/Marc-Jedel/e/B07H7MVKJL. They’re available in e-book, paperback, and audiobook formats. Marc’s novels are free to read by Kindle Unlimited members.

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Marc loves hearing from readers as that motivates him to keep going on the next blank page. Let him know what you liked, what you didn’t, and what you’d want to see more of in the next book.

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Website: www.marcjedel.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/MarcJedel.Author

BookBub: http://www.bookbub.com/profile/marc-jedel

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Marc-Jedel/e/B07H7MVKJL

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18403497.Marc_Jedel

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 Sore Like an Eagle: A Redwoods Country Mystery by Marc Jedel

About Sore Like an Eagle

Sore Like an Eagle: A Redwoods Country Mystery
Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series
Setting - California’s Redwoods Country
BGM Press (April 20, 2026)
Number of Pages: 241 

The coroner is claiming natural causes. The mayor is crying murder. Can this feisty retiree spot the truth before the clues drown in the chaos?

Andy Shirley won’t admit he likes it here. But in the year since his wife’s passing, the copy-editor-turned-reluctant-hotelier has begun to appreciate small-town life amongst the towering redwoods. And his quick eye for detail has him suspecting foul play when the local busybody is found belly-up in the community pool.

With his sleuthing skills unaffected by a recent hiking injury, Andy ignores the police chief’s cautions and dives into an off-the-books investigation. But though his snarky sidekick and pocket-sized poodle help chase down leads, all his Poirot-inspired maneuvers aren’t getting him any closer to closing the case.

Can he pull off an impossible solve, or will the lack of evidence drive Andy off the deep end?

Sore Like an Eagle is the splashy third book in the Redwoods Country cozy mystery series. If you like reluctant heroes, unexpected team-ups, and puzzles that keep you guessing, then you'll love this hilarious yarn.

Try Sore Like an Eagle to swim laps around crime today!

About Marc Jedel

 

Marc Jedel writes funny, feel-good murder mysteries filled with quirky characters, twisty plots, and the kind of humor that goes down easy with a cup of tea—or glass of wine. After years of writing marketing copy in Silicon Valley, Marc finally started crafting fiction people actually wanted to read. He’s the author of multiple cozy mystery series, including the Silicon Valley Mystery, Ozarks Lake Mystery, and Redwoods Country Mystery series. His books have earned thousands of glowing reviews. Like Andy from the Redwoods Country Mysteries, Marc keeps getting older and sincerely hopes his retirement doesn’t involve running a B&B. Like Marty from the Silicon Valley series, he lives in tech-heavy California, has worked in high-tech, and proudly wields bad puns. Like Jonas and Elizabeth from the Ozarks Lake series, Marc grew up in the South and spent many a summer in and around Arkansas. He lives with his endlessly patient wife and a sweet, neurotic dog who remains deeply unimpressed by Marc’s jokes. When not writing, Marc can be found hiking, plotting murders (on the page, officer, really!), or avoiding whatever home improvement project he’s been putting off. Visit marcjedel.com for free content, updates, and more!

Author Links:

• Website and mailing list: www.marcjedel.com
• Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Marc-Jedel/e/B07H7MVKJL
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/MarcJedel.Author
• BookBub: www.bookbub.com/profile/marc-jedel?follow=true
• Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/18403497.Marc_Jedel
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mjedel/

Purchase Links - AMAZON

Something Prowling in Paradise Park - A Guest Post, Excerpt, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Kate Tessler to Cozy Up With Kathy today. You can find Kate on the pages of the Accidental Detective Mystery series by Kris Bock. Something Prowling in Paradise Park is the seventh book in the series and was released earlier this month.

 
In The Accidental Detective humorous mystery series, a witty journalist solves mysteries in Arizona and tackles the challenges of turning fifty.


Accidental Detective Kate Tessler on what she learned during a recent case. 

I spent 30 years as a war correspondent before a bombing injury ended that career. Now I’m working on becoming a private detective. (Okay, my sister Jen and I have been amateur PIs for a while now, but the licensing takes time so we can’t technically charge for it.) 

Like journalists, investigators get to explore all kinds of interesting topics. Recently, family friends (and troublemakers) Clarence and Arnold brought a case to our attention. A “snowbird” couple that usually didn’t return to Arizona came back early because their electric and water bills were unusually high. They thought maybe they had a water leak, but they found squatters living in their house. The squatters had a forged rental contract, so the police said it has to go through the courts. That could take months. 

You can read all about how we dealt with that issue (and how things went dreadfully wrong) in Something Prowling in Paradise Park. In the meantime, here’s a scene where I talked about the situation with my boyfriend, Todd, and his kids, Finn and Alec.



Over dinner, I mentioned Clarence and Arnold’s request for help with the squatters.

“Oof, that’s a tough situation,” Todd said. “Unfortunately, it’s too common in Phoenix, with so many people leaving their homes empty over the summer.”

I wound spaghetti around my fork, making sure I had plenty of the chickpea-rosemary sauce. “Is it really that hard to get rid of squatters?”

Todd paused with his fork halfway to his mouth. “It’s tricky. It’s easier to get rid of a trespasser.”

“What’s the difference?” Alec asked.

“I’d have to check the legal terms,” Todd said, “but as I recall, trespassing is illegal entry for a short period of time. So if someone is living in the house and another person comes in without permission, it’s trespassing. Squatters stay for a long time and can make a claim of ownership.”

Finn shook his head. “How can somebody claim ownership of a house that someone else already owns?”

“There’s a legal concept called adverse possession,” Todd explained. “The idea goes way back, centuries, I think. Now there are different laws for each state. But basically, if someone moves into a property and isn’t evicted quickly, they can claim they have a right to be there or even that they own the property now.”

Alec’s nose wrinkled. “Sounds wrong.”

“I don’t think many squatters today actually gain legal right to a property,” Todd said. “But they can claim they have a legal right to be there, and the police don’t know who’s telling the truth. So the homeowner has to take it to court to prove ownership.”

“I’m glad I thought to mention the problem,” I said. “How do you know all this?”

“I’ve had some local residents complain to me over the years.” Todd rubbed his forehead as if the mere mention gave him a headache. “I had to look into how the system works. I now have a standard email and letter to help people make the correct legal response.”

“Send me a copy?” When Todd nodded, I went on, “Clarence thought maybe they should move in and try to drive out the squatters, I guess with bad jokes. I advised against it, since people who illegally try to take over a stranger’s home could be dangerous.”

“Good call,” Todd said. “These situations usually don’t turn violent, but I wouldn’t want to get into a competition for worst roommate. They might trash the place before they leave, or trash the place and still refuse to leave.”

I pictured the damage someone could do if they didn’t care about where they were living. “Good point, I’ll make that clear.”

“Also, the squatters might claim the shared habitation is evidence that the homeowners allowed them to live there,” Todd said. “Legally, there are things you should and should not do. The experts don’t even advise changing the locks or shutting off utilities to make the property less appealing.”

That surprised me. “Doesn’t the owner have the right to shut off utilities or change locks? Although I guess I can see not wanting people living in your house without running water. They’d probably leave an even bigger mess.”

It would be bad enough to have clean strangers living in your house. Worse if they were filthy and stinky from days without washing and they let dishes pile up. Granted, squatters might not bathe or wash dishes anyway. But without running water, you’d get overflowing toilets, or people just pooping anywhere, in the yard or even on the floor.

Todd grimaced. “Why do we have these lovely conversations around dinner? Yeah, they could make a mess, and also you could get in legal trouble. It’s probably just better to go through the eviction process, even if it takes a month or two.”

“And meanwhile the actual homeowners have to pay to stay somewhere else.” I was getting good information but that didn’t mean I liked anything I’d heard.

I mulled over what he’d said so far. I didn’t know enough about the squatters in the current situation. “I’m going to text Jen and warn her to make sure Clarence and Arnold don’t do anything drastic before we have more information.”

“Oh, surely they wouldn’t do anything outrageous,” Todd said. We both laughed.

I sent my text. “Do you have any other suggestions on dealing with squatters?”

Todd shrugged. “Hope they’re engaged in another criminal activity? Then you might be able to get them arrested on different charges. Once they’re out of the house, remove their stuff, change the locks, upgrade security—and most importantly, be there physically.”

I hope you don’t ever have to use this information! But you never know when something you learn might turn out to be useful. 

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 Something Prowling in Paradise Park: A Kate Tessler Amateur Sleuth Mystery (The Accidental Detective Book) by Kris Bock

About Something Prowling in Paradise Park

 

Something Prowling in Paradise Park: A Kate Tessler Amateur Sleuth Mystery (The Accidental Detective Book)
Humorous Mystery 7th in Series
Setting - Arizona
Publisher: ‎ Tule Publishing
Publication Date: ‎ March 2, 2026
Print Length: ‎ 192 pages

Three cases. One body. Zero chance of staying out of trouble. Kate Tessler may have thought her days of chasing danger were over. But the former war correspondent’s “retirement” in sunny Paradise, Arizona, is anything but quiet. With her eccentric circle of friends and colleagues, Kate has built a new life—full of mysteries, mayhem, and the occasional stakeout—as she works towards earning her PI license. After wrapping her last case, Kate wonders what’s next when three cases—all brought by friends—fall into her lap. Squatters in a snowbird’s house, local pedigree dogs disappearing, and smash and grab burglaries at local pot shops. Kate juggles the cases with help from her usual cast of amateur crime solvers, including the teen sons of Paradise’s mayor. As she digs, Kate suspects at least two cases are connected. But things turn deadly when a late-night stakeout leads Kate and one teen sidekick, interested in investigative work, straight to a body. Was it a gruesome accident—or something far more sinister? With humor and high stakes, The Accidental Detective mysteries prove that danger and friendship don’t retire quietly.

About Kris Bock

Kris Bock writes mystery, suspense, and romance, often with smart, snarky heroines finding adventure (sometimes against their will) in the Southwest. She lives in New Mexico, where she enjoys hiking with her spouse and playing with their ferrets.

In the Reluctant Psychic Mystery series, a quirky loner who can read the history of any object with her touch gets drawn into mysteries at the museum of oddities where she works. In the Accidental Detective humorous mystery series, a witty journalist solves mysteries in Arizona and tackles the challenges of turning fifty. Kris’s romantic suspense novels include treasure hunting, archaeology, and intrigue. Readers have called these novels “Smart romance with an Indiana Jones feel.” She is also the author of the Furrever Friends Sweet Romance series and the Accidental Billionaire Cowboys series.

Sign up for the Kris Bock newsletter and get an Accidental Detective short story and other freebies. Then every two weeks, you’ll get fun content about pets, announcements of new books, sales, and more.

Author Links: 

Find Kris: Website Blog BlueSky Instagram TikTok Facebook GoodReads Author Page BookBub Amazon US page or Amazon UK page  

Website https://www.krisbock.com/  

Blog https://swarmchairtraveler.blogspot.com/  

BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/krisbock.bsky.social  

Mastodon https://mastodon.social/@KrisBock  

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

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

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@krisbock.mystery.romance  

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4735592.Kris_Bock  

BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kris-bock  

Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/krisbock  

Purchase Links Amazon B&N Apple Google Books Kobo Publisher with links to all retailers Universal link Series universal link

Sticks and Bones - A Spotlight

With the new year just a few days away, I thought I'd shine a spotlight on a book set during this holiday. Sticks and Stones by Carolyn Haines is the seventeenth book in the Sarah Booth Delaney Mystery series. If you're unfamiliar with this great series Them Bones is the first, published in 1999. Doggone Bones is the most recent book in the series, the twenty-ninth, and was published back in May. Ode to the Bones will be the next book in the series and will be published in May 2026! 

Blurb:

Private investigator Sarah Booth Delaney and her friends are celebrating New Year’s Eve at the party of the year, a smashing Winter Garden party at the Prince Albert Hotel. It’s a dazzling success…until Frangelica “Sister” McFee walks through the door. Sarah Booth knew Sister in college, before Sister became a bestselling author and moved to New York, and fame and fortune don’t seem to have tempered her arrogance and cruelty.

Sister’s latest book is a memoir about the death of her mother and brother many years ago. Now, a film about the book is in the works, and a film crew has descended upon Zinnia, Mississippi, to tell the complete tale. The film crew soon realizes there may be more to the story than meets the eye—or is told in Sister’s memoir—and they hire Sarah Booth to discover the absolute truth about those deaths so many years ago. But Sarah Booth quickly realizes that someone is desperate to keep the truth hidden and will go to any lengths necessary to protect a long-held secret.

The Latke in the Library & Other Mystery Stories for Chanukah

In honor of Hanukkah I thought I'd shine a spotlight on The Latke in the Library & Other Mystery Stories for Chanukah by Libi Astaire. This is a compilation of four short stories written with a nod to Agatha Christie.

 Oy vey! When elderly mystery writer Agatha Krinsky falls for the fifth time, her nephew Sheldon insists she move into an assisted living facility. True to form, on her first day in her new home Agatha discovers a body in the library. But the staff won’t take her seriously, and even her elderly luncheon companions — Herschel Perlow, Miss Eppel, and Ronny and Rubles Bernfeld — are more interested in talking about bodies they encountered in their earlier careers than helping Agatha solve her mystery.

Included in this humorous Chanukah-themed homage to Dame Agatha Christie are these four short mystery stories: The Latke in the Library, Evil Under the Wick, And Then There Were Gornisht, and The Olive Cracked.

The Cherry Trees of Rosings - A Book Blast

 

The Cherry Trees of Rosings: A Pride & Prejudice Variation (The Lizzy Darcy Chronicles) by Morgan Blake

About The Cherry Trees of Rosings

The Cherry Trees of Rosings: A Pride & Prejudice Variation (The Lizzy Darcy Chronicles)
Austenesque, Regency Romance 1st in Series
Publisher: ‎ Ria Majumdar
Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 30, 2025
Paperback Print Length: ‎ 178 pages Digital Print Length: ‎ 180 pages

A Pride & Prejudice variation with a slightly paranormal, mainly comic twist!

When Elizabeth Bennet visits her newly-married friend, Charlotte Collins, at the Hunsford parsonage, she has no idea that Mr. Darcy (he of the arrogant demeanor and perpetual cause of annoyance!) shall turn up to ruin her blissful, idyllic days.

Only, Mr. Darcy is not himself.

And then Elizabeth stumbles straight through him one day... like one would an apparition! Goodness gracious! “Mr. Darcy, I do not know what you mean, but I would appreciate it if you would desist from haunting me!”

“I apologize, Miss Bennet, for scaring you,” Mr. Darcy said, almost regretfully. To solve her haunting problem, Elizabeth must team up with Mr. Darcy to find out what happened to him, and along the way discover that maybe he is not all that he seemed at first. And that maybe...she doesn’t hate him after all. “You wish to write the letter now?” he asked as she moved past him with the candle.

“Well, to be honest,” she glanced at him. “I would prefer to sleep. But since you are here, I do not see why not.” From the antics of Lady Catherine de Bourgh to the hilarity of Mr. Collins’ advice on staying fit, The Cherry Trees of Rosings shall make you laugh and cry in equal measure. And wonder: Will our favourite couple find their happy ever after?

Spoiler: Yes, they will! This Pride and Prejudice variation features our favourite Regency romance couple from Jane Austen's original classic in a somewhat spooky setup. But fear not, dear readers! This story is not scary in the least. Prepare for a chuckle fest and abundant cups of tea!

About Morgan Blake

Morgan Blake writes regency romance novels and Austenesque variations of Pride & Prejudice that are sometimes steamy, sometimes not. Satire is the name of the game and happy ever afters the goal!

Morgan loves exploring themes of personal identity, inner strength, social discourse, and hope alongside enduring love in her stories.

She also believes that strong heroes and heroines are not enough to make a tale worth telling. They need a supporting cast of good and not-so-good characters that add more punch and vibrancy... and some dramatic ridiculousness!

Morgan is a cat friend, tropical girl who prefers winter clothes, perennial fantasy/historical fiction nerd, and a night owl.

Author Website: https://morganblakeauthor.com/  

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

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563826174842  

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/58275585.Morgan_Blake  

 

Purchase Link - Amazon Book Buy Link/Universal Link

Beds, Breakfasts, and Beta Blockers - An Interview, Review, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Jann Franklin to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Jann writes the Three Dog Mystery series. BEDS, BREAKFASTS, AND BETA BLOCKERS is the first book in the series.

Kathy: In BEDS, BREAKFASTS, AND BETA BLOCKERS Ro Bergeron inherits her childhood home and decides to open a bed and breakfast for humans and their canine friends. I tell my mom I'm going to keep my childhood home and turn it into the Kathy Museum. What is the status of your childhood home? Would you keep it if you could?

JF: My parents sold my childhood home when they moved to be closer to me I visited it recently, in Russellville AR with my husband. He turned to me and said “I had no idea you grew up rich.” I said, “Neither did I.” My parents couldn’t afford to live in that house now, if they bought it. But it’s nice to see that my childhood home went wayyyy up in value and didn’t turn into a bad neighborhood


Kathy: Ro can’t boil an egg or keep a plant alive, yet she intends to open a B&B. Have you ever tried something despite being totally unqualified? 

 

JF: HA! Yes…motherhood. But my boys turned out well, despite my total lack of skills and training.


Kathy: I love the fact that the B&B will welcome canine friends too. At the moment I just share my home with my cats who would not want to travel. Do you have any pets? Do they travel with you? 

 

JF: The dogs in my book are literally my dogs! Sadie travels with us. If you read the passages in the story about Rebel and Ruger , you’d know why we don’t take the Labs


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries? 

 

JF: I LOVE Murder She Wrote, Psych, Monk. And the older series Hart to Hart, McMillan and Wife, Rockford Files. They’re all about the puzzle-not the forensics. And no violence or graphic content. It’s what I love and it’s what I write

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres? 

 

JF: I always said I can’t write romance. But…I just finished a short story telling my in-laws’ love story. It will be included in a short story collection with other authors this December, called “Love For Keeps.” I am also working on another completely fictional short love story. So…maybe I will be led to write some romance books at some point.

I also have a trilogy in the small town genre-a woman is dragged from the big city to a small town by her husband-it’s Jen’s fish out of water story of how she finds her place. It’s the Small Town Girl series (TRADING BRIGHT LIGHTS FOR LIGHTNING BUGS, SHINING STARS AND MASON JARS, CHEESE GRITS AND HISSY FITS).


Kathy: Tell us about your series. 

 

JF: This is my first in series. Ro has been sheltered - never encouraged to spread her wings and fly. The ones who raised her have passed on, and she’s decided to venture out into the world, by opening her bed and breakfast. Her great aunts drag her into a murder case, fancying themselves as Jessica Fletcher, but Ro finds she enjoys it. The 2nd will be out in September -INNKEEPERS AND IMPOSTERS.


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

 

JF: Yes-twins. I love writing the 70 year old twins, Min and Win. They don’t care what people think and are self appointed matriarchs of the small town of Belle Bayou. That seems wonderful to me-just doing whatever you want and saying what you think. They come across mean sometimes but their hearts are on the right place.


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

JF: Several! Our 300 person town has a bed and breakfast and I’m friends with the innkeeper. I’ve heard stories! I thought constant flow of new people would add to a traditional cozy mystery.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work? 

 

JF: My husband said my writing is good and I should publish a book. He had no idea of the monster he was creating!


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

JF: Ooh! Jane Austen and Agatha Christie for sure!! Agatha is the OG of cozy mysteries And then Harlem Coben and Lee Childs-they are author royalty to me. And Tosca Lee because she’s so nice - I’ve met her before and she’s wonderful. She’d probably stay after and help me do the dishes


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

JF: Jonathan Kellerman’s CRIME SCENE. Our library had books on sale for a quarter and I’m a sucker for a good deal.


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

 

JF: Uh, well , my hobbies are my loved ones. I spend any free time with my husband, 2 sons and DILs, dogs, chickens, friends. Our small town always has something fun going on and we try to be there.


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

 

JF: Eggs-thank you chickens! Nonfat yogurt, popcorn and Bluebell vanilla ice cream. Most meals are a freefall, Sunday evenings are always popcorn and ice cream.


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

 

JF: Oh my gosh YES! I have a new series coming out this year, Letters to Santa. The first book, THE CASE OF THE MISSING SISTER, will be out in July. Then another book every year around Thanksgiving. I plan to continue both of my series Small Town Girl Mysteries (Book 6 in June) and Three Dog Mysteries (Book 2 in September) I want to write another series about a couple with a food truck who solves mysteries as they travel to festivals, the Grab n’ Go Mysteries. Just got to find the time….


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

 

JF: My readers - they are so lovely! I pose a question to my newsletter subscribers and they email the most wonderful stories-and receive a free book for their time. I also love interacting on social media.

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Review

BEDS, BREAKFASTS, AND BETA BLOCKERS by Jann Franklin
The First Three Dog Mystery 

Rose Louise Bergeron is different. Some might call her weird. Having been raised by her grandparents after her parents ran off she prefers classic movies and real books to pop culture and e-readers. An old soul she's content to remain in the small town of Belle Bayou, Louisiana. Now that her grandparents have both died, Ro decided to turn the family home into a B&B, one that welcomes dogs as well as people. Never mind that she doesn't know how to cook. Or that she knows nothing about dogs. She's booked her first guests and she's ready to learn! While she's preparing to become a business woman the talk around town is the suspicious death of Mr. Tippin, Ro's high school algebra teacher. Was it murder? Ro's great aunts are determined to find out, roping Ro into their investigation. It can't be that hard to learn how to cook, corral a posse of dogs, host paying guests, and solve a murder. Can it?

Admittedly, I wasn't too sure about Rose Louise at first. Her naivete was a bit much. But as I continued reading she really grew on me, as naive and silly as she was, she truly cared and wanted to improve and make it on her own. She had just never been given the tools to do so. Aunties Min and Win are an absolute hoot and I love how they can be genteel southern ladies and yet are true crime mavens to boot! Poor cousin Marshall, a rare voice of reason. And what a couple Ro's first guests are. I loved how they fit right in! And I absolutely love Sadie and the coyotes! I hope we get to meet Cousin Rooster in future books. While some of the premises are indeed silly, they lightened my heart and made me laugh! I'm still giggling about the reason for the change in church service times.

While the murder was mentioned early on at first Ro wasn't involved in investigating at all. Heaven knows she had enough on her plate. However, with pushes from her great aunts, also known as the Bossies, and her guests Mr. and Mrs. Macintosh, Ro becomes a reluctant sleuth. Although soon, she's not that reluctant! I love how they all worked together as a team, harebrained schemes and all!

Quirky characters and laugh out loud moments make BEDS, BREAKFASTS, AND BETA BLOCKERS a delightfully funny romp through small town Louisiana.

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 Beds, Breakfasts, & Beta Blockers (Three Dog Mysteries) by Jann Franklin

About Beds, Breakfasts, & Beta Blockers

Beds, Breakfasts, & Beta Blockers (Three Dog Mysteries)
Cozy Mystery 1st in Series
Setting - Louisiana
Publisher: ‎ Independently Published (February 20, 2025)
Language: ‎ English Paperback: ‎ 238 pages

Ro Bergeron’s grandparents raised her to be, well, helpless. She can’t boil an egg or keep a plant alive. When Ro inherits her childhood home, she decides to open a bed and breakfast for humans and their canine friends. Running a business catering to people is a big undertaking for thirty-two year old Ro—let alone pets too—yet with faith she is confident she can handle it. She even has her first guests booked for the coming weekend!

But when her meddlesome great aunts find the opportunity to solve a local murder too irresistible, Ro's new life as a business owner is turned upside-down! As Min and Win Rascoe indulge their sleuthing skills, a reluctant Ro and her enthusiastic house guests are drawn into the mystery.

Will the Rascoe sisters and their unconventional team solve the murder before Ro’s high school crush Detective Jason Charbonnet? Can Ro master the skills of cooking and hosting? Will life for Ro in the tiny town of Belle Bayou ever be the same?

This book is the first of the Three Dog Mystery Series.

About Jann Franklin

Jann Franklin is a faith-based cozy mystery writer living in northwest Louisiana with slightly less than three hundred other people. Many of her stories are based on the tales she hears from residents.

She and her husband John enjoy Sundays at church, dinner with family and friends, and watching the lightning bugs in their backyard. Their kids come to visit, when they aren’t too busy living their big-city lives. Visit her at www.jannfranklin.com

Author Links: 

Webpage: https://jannfranklin.com  

Blog: https://jannfranklin.com/blog  

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

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

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22583014.Jann_Franklin  

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jann-franklin  

Purchase Link - Amazon 

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Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Beds, Breakfasts, and Beta Blockers by Jann Franklin. This is the first book in the Three Dog Mystery series and was released earlier this year.

Rose Louise Bergeron is different. Some might call her weird. Having been raised by her grandparents after her parents ran off she prefers classic movies and real books to pop culture and e-readers. An old soul she's content to remain in the small town of Belle Bayou, Louisiana. Now that her grandparents have both died, Ro decided to turn the family home into a B&B, one that welcomes dogs as well as people. Never mind that she doesn't know how to cook. Or that she knows nothing about dogs. She's booked her first guests and she's ready to learn! While she's preparing to become a business woman the talk around town is the suspicious death of Mr. Tippin, Ro's high school algebra teacher. Was it murder? Ro's great aunts are determined to find out, roping Ro into their investigation. It can't be that hard to learn how to cook, corral a posse of dogs, host paying guests, and solve a murder. Can it?

Bronco Buster - An Interview

I'm happy to welcome A. J. Devlin back to Cozy Up With Kathy today. A. J. writes the "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series. BRONCO BUSTER is the and most recent book in the series. I hope you read my review, if not, click here to check it out!

Kathy: In BRONCO BUSTER Jed and Declan find trouble at the Colossal Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair. Do you enjoy going to rodeos and or country fairs? If so, what's your favorite activity?

AJD: Absolutely! The Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair is a real thing in Greater Vancouver (I added to “Colossal” for a little creative freedom ;) and I have been going there since I was a wee lad. It always had that RUSTIC vibe to it that set it apart from other annual events, as if the entire exhibition was known for being a little rough around the edges.


With regards to a favourite rodeo activity, I would have to say for spectator events it would be bronco riding, of course, but my most cherished memories at the rodeo were always the special treats like candy apples, little donuts, and maybe a deep-fried banana or two.


Kathy: We know Jed has a thing for Dairy Queen Banana milkshakes, but here he partakes in a banana snow cone. I've never heard of banana as a snow cone flavor! Have you tried it?

AJD: Oh yes. If it has anything banana in it, you can bet I’ve tried it. That’s author 101 right there. Do your research. And while it’s fun to write about European banana-flavoured milkshake syrups like those featured in FIVE MOVES OF DOOM (“Hammerhead” 3) or banana-flavoured snow cones, unfortunately the ratio of number of banana fusion flavours tried to quality ones that make it to print in my books is not in favour of my tastebuds.


Kathy: The "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series showcases various sports that could be considered non-traditional. We've gotten behind the scene looks at professional wrestling, roller derby, and now logging sports. Why bring logging sports into a "Hammerhead" mystery?

AJD: The idea for the series was that a pro-wrestler PI would be uniquely suited to take on cases that pulled him into fringe sports and unusual subcultures. After pro wrestling, roller derby, wiener dog racing, rooftop MMA, and goat yoga, I figured the only way to ratchet up the tension was to use one. Literally.


Kathy: While uproariously funny BRONCO BUSTER also deals with some serious existential considerations. How do you find the balance?

AJD: When I was at the American Film Institute Conservatory earning my MFA in Screenwriting, one time we had special screening of the Peter Sellers classic film Being There. Talk about balancing uproarious humour with existential crises. That film is masterpiece of comedic storytelling. So if we called that the "Scooby-Doo" of deftly balanced narratives that intersect silly with smart, I like to think that might make Bronco Buster the louder, far-less-beloved, but still-hopefuly-pretty-entertaining "Scrappy Doo.”


Kathy: I adore John Steinbeck. Did OF MICE AND MEN influence the Buffalo portion of the book?

AJD: 100%. And thank goodness for my brilliant editor and awesome team at NeWest Press because I was about as subtle about that inspiration in the first draft as the bovine butt cacophony that accompanies live betting on cowpie bingo.


Kathy: Was there a specific inspiration for this story?

AJD: Trauma. That’s what this book was for me. An exploration into the after effects of devastating trauma. Just like the kind “Hammerhead” Jed endures and survives in FIVE MOVES OF DOOM. While that story was complete, the fallout from the events of that book were not. In fact, I soon realized what had occurred in book 3 was so significant it had to serve as the character arc for Jed in book 4.

And it did.

I was inspired to utilize a real-time format because of my love of the TV show 24 and the character of Jack Bauer, and also because the implementation of such a finite narrative construct like that of a ticking clock actually served as a catalyst for Jed to process his trauma — all while caught up in a rodeo adventure.

And like all great adversity in life, keeping a sense of humour amidst chaos often comes in handy as an essential coping mechanism.


Kathy: Are you able to share any future plans for "Hammerhead" Jed Ounstead?
AJD: Happy Trails, Partner!

Bronco Buster - A Review

 Review

BRONCO BUSTER by A. J. Devlin
The Fourth "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery

A routine wrestling match at the Colossal Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair becomes anything but for Jed "Hammerhead" Ounstead when the body of a lumberjack games competitor is found floating in a shallow pool with an axe buried in his head. Realizing the victim is a man he considered a friend means that Jed has a new case. With his reckless cousin Declan by his side the pair will use any means, mostly unconventional, to get to the truth before the Mounties even arrive.

BRONCO BUSTER is another journey for Jed. What starts as a simple matinee wrestling match at a country fair and rodeo turns into a quest for truth, a question of his own morality, and the ultimate decision of life or death. As usual, Hammerhead's path is more circuitous than straight and his desire to help others puts him in more danger. This path of self discovery is full of outrageous situations bringing plenty of humor from cow-pie bingo, lusty senior citizens, the unique use of an ostrich, to a guru with hardware jewelry, not to mention logging games and wrestling moves that are a bit personal! Working at breakneck speed Jed strives to right a wrong as he grapples with existential crises.

Bronco Buster is a fast paced mystery with a myriad of moving parts. Never one to shy away from unique characters and situations we soon discover many characters with things to hide. The attentive reader will find subtle clues all while being led on a merry chase as Jed and Declan investigate their new friend’s murder. Could the solution be the obvious one?

A. J. Devlin has the unique ability to blend laugh out loud comedy with heartfelt pathos. More than a mystery BRONCO BUSTER is a meaningful work about life, love, and banana milkshakes.

Currently Reading...

I just started reading Bronco Buster by A. J. Devlin. This book is the fourth in the "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series and was released earlier this month. 

A routine wrestling match at the Colossal Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair becomes anything but for Jed "Hammerhead" Ounstead when the body of a lumberjack games competitor is found floating in a shallow pool with an axe buried in his head. Realizing the victim is a man he considered a friend means that Jed has a new case. With his reckless cousin Declan by his side the pair will use any means, mostly unconventional, to get to the truth before the Mounties even arrive.

The Mysterious Case of the Missing Motive - An Interiew, Review, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Michele Pariza Wacek back to Cozy Up With Kathy. Michele writes the Redemption Detective Agency Mystery series. THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING MOTIVE is the first book in the series and was released October 15, 2024.

Kathy: The Redemption Detective Agency Mystery series is a spin off of your Charlie Kingsley Mystery series. What called you to make a spin off?

MPW: I was feeling called to do a cozy series that was lighter and funnier than the Charlie Kingsley Mysteries. (While the Charlie Kingsley Mysteries does have humor, I would say the emphasis of that series is on the mystery—similar to an Agatha Christie book). A couple of the side characters also stepped up to let me know they wanted to be in the new series, so really, I didn’t have much choice in the matter.


Kathy: In THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING MOTIVE Emily Hildebrandt moves in with her eccentric Aunt Tilde in Redemption, Wisconsin. Have you ever gotten caught up in an eccentric relative's schemes?

MPW: I have not, but it might be because some of my relatives might consider me the eccentric relative. [Looks around furtively.]


Kathy: Other than the Charlie Kingsley mysteries, was there a specific inspiration for this story?

MPW: I always loved cold cases, so having a series based cold cases was very appealing to me. I also loved the trope of opening up an investigation into a convicted murderer’s case to discover the actual truth, which is what this case is about.


Kathy: This series is set in the 1990s. Why that time period instead of modern day or earlier?

MPW: The Charlie Kingsley Mysteries is actually a spin off from the Secrets of Redemption series, which is a psychological thriller series that takes place in modern day. Charlie is dead in that series and has willed her house to Becca, her niece, who begins the series moving to Redemption. When I started writing that series, I never thought Charlie would turn into such an important character, but here we are.

So, it’s set in the 1990s because Charlie needed to be alive and it also needed to be before some of the major events that happened in Becca’s life. That said, what I discovered while writing it was how much I loved writing in that time period, so I may end up with a lot more books and series that take place in the 1990s.


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?

MPW: I’m somewhere in between, but more pantser than plotter. For years, I thought I was a plotter because I do create rough outlines (emphasis on rough). Then a fellow writer in an author group I’m in posted a sample of how they plot, which was when I realized I was more pantser than plotter. I need to get inside and live my stories before I can put them on paper.


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?

MPW: My other business is actually an online marketing business. Unlike a lot of other authors, I truly enjoy marketing, although I’m not as keen about posting a lot on social media (that would be what I dislike the most).


Kathy: Will you share any other upcoming books?

MPW: Thank you for asking! On November 2, I’m releasing another Charlie Kingsley Mystery, A ROOM FOR MURDER, which is Charlie’s first case. Then I’ll be moving on to a brand new psych thriller series (another spin-off from Secrets of Redemption) before returning to The Redemption Detective Agency. The goal is to release 2 more books in that series in 2025.

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Review

THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING MOTIVE by Michele Pariza Wacek
The First Redemption Detective Agency Mystery

 

Doing the right thing cost Emily Hildebrandt her job, her fiance, her home, and even her car. Desperate, she takes up her Aunt Tilde's offer of not only a place to stay, but a job in Redemption, Wisconsin, even though her aunt is incredibly vague on details. Though grateful, Emily has more questions than answers, especially when she discovers that not only has Aunt Tilde opened a detective agency, but Emily is the new office manager and a detective as well! Surprisingly, they get a case, a case that Emily is certain they should not take. But if they don't help a desperate mother, who will?

 

Aunt Tilde is amazing. What a wonderful woman whose caring heart and intuitive knowledge shine in a totally unique and eccentric body. I also love the "creepy" town of Redemption. Hints are given and there is much more to the town, and its residents, than meets the eye. One thing that really bugged me about Emily was her attitude towards pets. It really turned me off from liking her. However, I think her attitude is going to change, and that's a very good thing. 

 

THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING MOTIVE is a very funny story with a very well plotted mystery. I love how the ragtag team gets together to solve a case. Aunt Tilde and her friends may not know how to run a business, but that's where Emily comes in. I also like the subtle romantic interest which got even more interesting at the end of the tale.

 

With lots of laughs, a little intrigue, and a great cast of characters THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING MOTIVE is a great start to a new series!

 

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 The Mysterious Case of the Missing Motive (The Redemption Detective Agency) by Michele Pariza Wacek

About The Mysterious Case of the Missing Motive

The Mysterious Case of the Missing Motive (The Redemption Detective Agency)
Cozy Mystery 1st in Series
Setting - Wisconsin
Publisher: ‎ Love-Based Publishing (October 15, 2024)
Number of Pages ~200 pages

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Or maybe a gin and tonic.

Emily Hildebrandt has run into a bit of a rough patch. She's lost her job, her fiance and her apartment. Still, she never expected to be desperate enough to accept an invitation to live with her eccentric Aunt Tilde in Redemption, Wisconsin.

But, beggars can't be choosers. Even if part of the deal is she has to pretend to work at her aunt's latest hair-brained scheme, The Redemption Detective Agency.

Seriously, the woman is a retired nurse. Why does she think she's remotely qualified to run a detective agency, especially in a creepy little town like Redemption?

But, when a strange phone call suddenly thrusts them into an actual case, Emily finds herself hoping her aunt really does know what she's doing ... or an innocent person may be the one to suffer the consequences.

A spin-off from the Charlie Kingsley Mystery series! The Redemption Detective Agency is a funny, twisty cozy mystery series set in the 1990s featuring silver sleuths solving cold cases. Great for fans of the Thursday Murder Club.

About Michele Pariza Wacek

 

A USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author, Michele taught herself to read at 3 years old because she wanted to write stories so badly. It took some time (and some detours) but now she does spend much of her time writing stories. Mystery stories, to be exact. They're clean and twisty, and range from psychological thrillers to cozies, with a dash of romance and supernatural thrown into the mix. If that wasn't enough, she posts lots of fun things on her blog, including short stories, puzzles, recipes, and more, at MPWNovels.com.

Michele grew up in Wisconsin, (hence why all her books take place there), and still visits regularly, but she herself escaped the cold and now lives in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona with her husband and southern squirrel hunter Cassie.

When she's not writing, she's usually reading, hanging out with her dog, or watching the Food Network and imagining she's an awesome cook. (Spoiler alert, she's not. Luckily for the whole family, Mr. PW is in charge of the cooking.)

Author Links: 

Website https://MPWNovels.com  

Facebook https://Facebook.com/MichelePWauthor  

Instagram https://instagram.com/themichelepw  

Purchase Links - Amazon - B&N 

  a Rafflecopter giveaway