Burden of Poof - An Interview, Review, & Giveaway

I'm happy to welcome Julie Anne Lindsey back to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Julie Anne writes the Bonnie & Clyde Mystery series. BURDEN OF POOF is the first book in the series and was released last week.

JAL: Hi Kathy! Thank you so much for inviting me over to hang out a bit today! It’s so much fun that you’re sharing your blog with me! I’m excited to get started and chat about my new series! What a great opportunity!


Kathy: It's great to have you with us today. You start a new series with BURDEN OF PROOF. What led you to the world of used clothing? 

JAL: In BURDEN OF POOF, my heroine, Bonnie, and her kitty companion, Clyde, team up to open a second-chance shop in Bonnie’s hometown of Bliss, Georgia. I chose a second-chance shop for a few fun reasons.

First, I love the idea of turning castoff items into new creations. There’s something magical about giving renewed purpose to perfectly good things that have gotten a little battered, old, or out of style. Secondly, I think the shop is a great metaphor for Bonnie, who left home young and full of hope, but returned home facing 40 and newly divorced. She gets a new life, new purpose and a fresh jolt of joy in this series. Finally, I thought the shop was relevant to the small, rural farming community where Bonnie lives. There’s not a lot of money in Bliss, and shopping is somewhat limited. Having a store where folks can come in on a budget and leave feeling like royalty seemed just about right. Bonnie grew up on a flower farm, and is very aware of how much stretching the average paycheck gets. Now, she’s doing
something she loves and helping her community in the process.


Kathy: Do you tend to shop at second hand stores, giving clothes a second chance yourself?

JAL: I love estate sales and auctions. I’m not much of a clothing person, so I gravitate to places where I can find solid, well-made furniture and household items with style, beauty and craftsmanship. Most things are mass produced today to keep costs down, and I forget that, until I’m awestruck by the detail
and craftsmanship I discover in old homes and antique shops. I want it all!


Kathy: I love that Bonnie has a cat named Clyde. How did you decide to pick this criminal duo as the namesakes for your characters? 

JAL: As a cozy author, I never stop looking for fun or funny book and series titles. This idea came to mind while reading the Truly Devious young adult mystery series by Maureen Johnson. She references Bonnie and Clyde in a portion of the books, flashing back to that era, and I realized those names would 
work perfectly for an adorable cozy duo.


Kathy: Was there a specific inspiration for this story?

JAL: This story was inspired by my love of rural, southern small towns, and the theme of finding a place to belong and thrive, regardless of circumstance. I wanted to see my newly divorced heroine come home to lick her wounds and discover it was a blessing. She is beautiful, wonderful and worthy. She has a brilliant future ahead of her and a furry best friend by her side. I hoped the story would give readers a sense of joy and hope.


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? 

JAL: I write about 6-8 novels a year, for four publishers, as three people, so time is everything. As a result, I’m a dedicated outliner. I know how many words I need, and how many chapters that requires. I outline thoroughly and aim to write a chapter a day. By keeping this schedule, I can accurately predict when I will be available to take on a new contract, even if it’s two years away. My agent and I often fill my writing calendar 16-18 months at a time.

Occasionally, the stories deviate from the outline, but overall, I’m pretty good at setting things up and staying on track for time management’s sake. Even if the characters take a detour from time to time.


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? 

JAL: I love the interaction portion of marketing, and I chat with my readers as often as possible, every day if I can! I have a special reader group on Facebook called COZY QUEENS where I post updates, take polls and share early news with fans and friends. I even dedicated this book to that group! We’re always looking for new members, so come on over 😉


Kathy: Will you share any other upcoming books? 

JAL: Absolutely! 2021 has been my busiest year yet! Hold onto your hats! As many of you know, I write the Cider Shop Mysteries, and book 3, THE CIDER SHOP RULES, just released July 27th.

I’m also Bree Baker, and PARTNERS IN LIME, book 6 in the Seaside Café Mysteries released August 31st.

I write the Christmas Tree Farm Mysteries as Jacqueline Frost, and book 3, SLASHING THROUGH THE SNOW, releases October 12th!

I write romantic suspense for Harlequin’s Intrigue line, and I have two new releases coming this fall. KENTUCKY CRIME RING in late September and STAY HIDDEN in late October.

As for Bonnie & Clyde, you can expect three more new adventures from them this year including SEVEN DEADLY SEQUINS next month, BEATING THE WRAP in November, and EYELET WITNESS in December. If I stay on track, there will also be a secret project releasing before Christmas!

As a bonus, I’ve written a fun, FREE, downloadable prequel to the series, and you can see where it all began in WHEN BONNIE MET CLYDE, available here: https://outbound.julieannelindsey.com/g9UWwY7815kgbDCo

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Review

BURDEN OF POOF by Julie Anne Lindsey
The First Bonnie & Clyde Mystery

Bonnie gives new life to dresses, will she be able to create a new one for herself?

Still reeling from the bitter end of her marriage Bonnie Balfour is back in her hometown of Bliss, Georgia trying to make a go of her second chance dress shop. But all the flowers from her parents organic flower farm and love from her cat Clyde can't help when she finds Viola Abbott-Harrington dead under a pile of clothing donations. The new detective from Cleveland is certain that Bonnie is guilty of murder and Bonnie is determined to prove him wrong. Will she be able to find the real killer while making her shop shine? Or will a killer put her out of business...permanently?

BURDEN OF POOF is a story of proving you're good enough. Life isn't always kind, but it's the determination you have along with the choices you make that makes the difference. Bonnie is a sweet protagonist who's starting to get her gumption back. Looking for the good in others, she's more apt to find it, than not. The town of Bliss fulfills its Hallmark like setting with charming shops and townsfolk who know and care for each other. I am so intrigued by the bookshop and can't wait to learn more of its secrets. I love the whole concept of Sutton and her special plants. I'm a big fan of Judy. I wish Sutton would choose a plant for me! I'm also in love with Clyde, the incredibly dapper cat.

 

An idyllic town, charming characters, the spark of romance, and a fun mystery make BURDEN OF POOF a great start to a new cozy mystery series.

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Burden of Poof (Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries) by Julie Anne Lindsey

About Burden of Poof

Burden of Poof (Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries)
Cozy Mystery 1st in Series
Publisher: ‎ Cozy Queen Publishing LLC (September 15, 2021)
Paperback: ‎ 254 pages

An amateur sleuth named Bonnie and her kitty companion Clyde, with names like those, what could possibly go wrong?

Life hasn't sparkled too brightly for Bonnie Balfour over the past few years, but a heart-breaking divorce has brought her back to her small rural hometown of Bliss, Georgia, and things are starting to shape up.

The proud new owner of Bless Her Heart—a second chance dress shop and boutique on the town square—Bonnie thinks thirty-eight might not be too late for a fresh start in life after all.

Until a grouchy old widow turns up dead in a pile of donations meant for Bonnie’s shop, and the town’s new detective pins her to the top of his suspect list!

To save her shop, dream and reputation, Bonnie must coordinate clues and stitch together the truth about her innocence, but the unreasonably handsome detective and prying eyes of the local gossip mill are fast fraying her nerves.

When a series of anonymous attacks begin to hem her in, Bonnie fears the real killer is fixing to make her his next victim. Can this amateur sleuth measure up?

 

About Julie Anne Lindsey

Julie Anne Lindsey is an award-winning and bestselling author of mystery and romantic suspense. She’s published more than forty novels since her debut in 2013 and currently writes series as herself, as well as under multiple pen names, for Harlequin, Kensington, Sourcebooks and Crooked Lane Books.

When Julie's not creating new worlds or fostering the epic love of fictional characters, she can be found in Kent, Ohio, enjoying her blessed Midwestern life. And probably plotting murder with her shamelessly enabling friends. Today she hopes to make someone smile. One day she plans to change the world. Learn more about Julie at julieannelindsey.com

Author Links: 

Website: https://www.julieannelindsey.com/  

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

 Cozy Queens Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cozyqueensjulieannelindsey  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JulieALindsey  

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4692170.Julie_Anne_Lindsey  

Purchase Links - Amazon - B&N - 

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Currently Reading...

I am currently reading Burden of Poof by Julie Anne Lindsey. This book is the first in the Bonnie and Clyde Mystery series and was released today! 

Still reeling from the bitter end of her marriage Bonnie Balfour is back in her hometown of Bliss, Georgia trying to make a go of her second chance dress shop. But all the flowers from her parents organic flower farm and love from her cat Clyde can't help when she finds Viola Abbott-Harrington dead under a pile of clothing donations. The new detective from Cleveland is certain that Bonnie is guilty of murder and Bonnie is determined to prove him wrong. Will she be able to find the real killer while making her shop shine? Or will a killer put her out of business...permanently?

The Silver Shooter - A Review

 Review

The Silver Shooter by Erin Lindsey
The Third Rose Gallagher Mystery 

Things are going well for Rose Gallagher. She owns her own home where her mother and friend Pietro also live and she's proud to be a Pinkerton detective. Things don't stay calm forever, especially where the special branch of the Pinkertons are concerned. Teddy Roosevelt has come in from the Dakota Territory where there's been trouble. After the worst winter ever, things are tough...made tougher by men being found slaughtered. Thinking something supernatural is to blame Roosevelt has suggested Thomas and Rose investigate. Once in the Badlands the duo are freed from their New York City constraints, but also discover just how wild the Wild West can be!

THE SILVER SHOOTER is a pulse pounding adrenaline fueled read. Tension exists everywhere, from the Dakota locals, the Lakota, and the mysterious creature, to the sparks flowing between Rose and Thomas. Thomas and Rose are out of their element, yet they have the opportunity to reveal their true selves and enjoy freedom and taking liberties with societal expectations.

I love when historical novels add real life characters to the story and Teddy Roosevelt is a perfect addition to the story with his bigger than life personality. The historical accuracy adds such realism that the supernatural element appears eminently natural.

THE SILVER SHOOTER has enough thrills and chills to keep you riveted to the story, eyes glued to the page. It proved an emotional experience with moments of white knuckled reading interspersed with laughs, as well as tears. The ending left me speechless and wondering, not only what Thomas would have said earlier, if he hadn't allowed Rose to go first, but what will happen next.

Pulp Friction - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a book on my TBR pile. Pulp Friction by Julie Anne Lindsey is the second book in the Cider Shop Mystery series.

PULP FRICTION by Julie Anne Lindsey
The Second Cider Shop Mystery

From the back cover:

Nothing’s sweeter than a fruitful family business, and for Winona Mae Montgomery and her Granny Smythe, that means Smythe Orchards in Blossom Valley, Virginia. But this year’s apple crop is especially juicy—with scandal . . .
 
SEEDS OF DANGER
 
Thanks to Winnie's new cider shop, Smythe Orchards is out of the red and folks can get their fix of the produce and other delectable products they love all year round. The locals are even booking the shop for events, including a June wedding! Winnie couldn’t be happier to see the barn filled to the rafters for the big bash—until her doting ex, Hank, is caught in a heated argument with the groom. Winnie plans to scold Hank after the party, but spots him running off instead. And when the groom turns up dead, apparently hit by the honeymoon getaway car, Hank is the main suspect. Now Hank is on the lam, and it’s up to Winnie to get to the core of the truth—before the real killer puts the squeeze on her . . .

Recipes Included.
 

2019 - A Look Back

I'm excited to enter 2020 as I reminisce about the year 2019. I enjoyed welcoming new authors to the blog and renewing acquaintances with others. I discovered many new series and continued savoring many others. While the number of books I loved is too daunting to list...and I cannot commit to naming my top ten as there are too many variables to consider, I thought I'd at least make note of some favorites.

I was delighted to start several new series in 2019. A Dream of Death by Connie Berry, A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder by Dianne Freeman,  Peach Clobbered by Anna Gerard, And Then There Were Crumbs by Eve Calder, The House on Hallowed Ground by Nancy Cole Silverman, and Death by Committee by Alexis Morgan were real standouts!

I also really enjoyed Southern Sass and Killer Cravings by Kate Young, Steeped in Murder by Kirsten Weiss, Designs on Murder by Gayle Leeson, Belinda Blake and the Snake in the Grass by Heather Day Gilbert, Murder's No Votive Confidence by Christin Brecher, and Mrs. Morris and the Ghost by Traci Wilton.

Of course I couldn't wait for new books in series I already loved and was thrilled to read 3 books in Carolyn Haines' Pluto's Snitch Mystery series. I had only recently discovered this fantastic Gothic paranormal mystery series and caught up. The most recent book is A Visitation of Angels, which was the only one actually published in 2019. I was also excited to read the second Rose Gallagher Mystery by Erin Lindsey, A Golden Grave, another historical mystery with a paranormal bent. Speaking of historical mysteries, The Pearl Dagger by L.A Chandlar, Deadly Deception by Kate Parker, and both of Peg Cochran's follow ups in her Murder, She Reported series, Murder, She Uncovered and Murder, She Encountered were top notch.

Gigi Pandian's latest Jaya Jones mystery, The Glass Thief, made me giddy at the ending and Vivien Chien gave two new Noodle Shop mysteries leaving me constantly craving Chinese food. Two Barnabas Tew novels had me laughing at the bumbling Victorian detectives as they dealt with Mayan and Hindu gods. Sarah Fox gave another standout with her fifth Pancake House Mystery, Crepe Expectations and Lena Gregory's fourth Bay Island Psychic Mystery, Spirited Away, had me on the edge of my seat.

I look forward to jumping into the new releases of 2020 as well as books I may have missed!

Apple Cider Slaying - A Review

Review

APPLE CIDER SLAYING by Julie Anne Lindsey

The First Cider Shop Mystery

Winnie Montgomery is bound and determined to make Smythe Orchard a success. With her grandfather's death the orchard suffered some financial setbacks, but with her business plan in place, Winnie is primed to get a loan and get the family business back on track and more profitable than ever. No longer closing after the harvest, Winnie has plans to have special holiday events to bring even more customers in. But as she's showing the loan officer the intended space for her Cider Shop they discover the dead body of her grandma's arch rival! With the Sheriff believing Granny is the prime suspect and the chances of her bank loan diminishing with each hour Winnie knows she has to find the real killer, before it's too late!

I love apple cider so I was immediately drawn to this series. And just like good apple cider APPLE CIDER SLAYING is tart, sweet, and oh so satisfying. Winnie is an immensely likeable protagonist. She's down to earth, has had some tough times, but struggles to do the best she can for herself and her grandma. Granny is a pistol and I love Dot, the Park Ranger best friend with a gift for helping animals. Of course there's the good looking Sheriff with a mysterious past and I'm glad Winnie didn't find him so appealing...at first. And then there are the two adorable kittens, whose names had me giggling.There is a unique flavor to this mystery, part Southern, part Appalachian, all West Virginian.

APPLE CIDER SLAYING lays the groundwork for a fantastic new series. I enjoyed the setting, the characters, and the mystery...which I found to be be intricately plotted with enough surprises to keep me guessing about what was really going on. So grab a mug of apple cider and get ready to enjoy the first Cider Shop Mystery.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Apple Cider Slaying by Julie Anne Lindsey. This book is the first book in the Cider Shop Mystery series and was released yesterday!

Winnie Montgomery is bound and determined to make Smythe Orchard a success. With her grandfather's death the orchard suffered some financial setbacks, but with her business plan in place, Winnie is primed to get a loan and get the family business back on track and more profitable than ever. No longer closing after the harvest, Winnie has plans to have special holiday events to bring even more customers in. But as she's showing the loan officer the intended space for her Cider Shop they discover the dead body of her grandma's arch rival! With the Sheriff believing Granny is the prime suspect and the chances of her bank loan diminishing with each hour Winnie knows she has to find the real killer, before it's too late!

A Golden Grave - A Review

Review

 A GOLDEN GRAVE by Erin Lindsey

The Second Rose Gallagher Mystery

Rose Gallagher is quickly learning that life as a newly recruited Pinkerton agent isn't all it's cracked up to be. She's having difficulty with some of the lessons, the other recruits look down on her, and even her friends seem to think she's changed. Meanwhile, every night it seems all she is doing is trying to catch shades. But when six Republican delegates drop dead at a convention, Sergeant Chapman believes something supernatural must be at work and comes to Rose and her dashing partner, Thomas Wiltshire, for help. Could it be the work of a shade? Or is it something more sinister? Thomas and Rose must gather their allies to prevent the assassination of mayoral candidate Theodore Roosevelt.

There is so much to love about A GOLDEN GRAVE. The historical detail provides a rich backdrop and including famous luminaries of the day, from Nikola Tesla to Samuel Clemens to Theodore Roosevelt himself is icing on the cake! The paranormal aspect is captivating and the things they encounter and methods they employ are mesmerizing. There's pulse pounding adventure, riveting drama, and a well plotted mystery.

This second Rose Gallagher Mystery spotlights the differences of the classes. The working class, people such as Clara, the denizens of Five Point, the upper class, like Jonathan Burrows, and even the various political groups from Tammany Hall to Republicans, Democrats, the Labor party, even socialists and anarchists all strive to keep their identity while they look down upon others, yet Rose is now forced to straddle two, an Irish maid who now consorts with the rich as her new job forces her to blend in. Meanwhile the sexual tension between Rose and Thomas is electrifying. A star crossed love to be certain, yet with so much against them, and so much at risk, will they follow their hearts?

A GOLDEN GRAVE is a gripping historical mystery filled with political intrigue, paranormal adventures, and a simmering love story that is close to boiling. I love everything about it and can't wait to be transported back in time for their next adventure.

2018 - A Year of Reviews in Review

As 2018 draws to a close I thought I'd take a look back at some of the great books I was privileged to read.

By the time the year ends I will have read at least 91 books. The most books I've read in a year, primarily due to me overextending myself...and also because so many interesting books are being published!

I was introduced to a lot of new series this year. I think my favorite is one that cannot fully be categorized. It's a historical, a paranormal, and a comedy all rolled up in a traditional mystery: the Barnabas Tew Mystery series by Columbine Noonan. I actually read the first two in the series this year. Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab and Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Nine Worlds are a delightful romp through mythology and great mysteries.

It should come as no surprise that I am partial to historical mysteries as well as paranormal ones.  MURDER ON MILLIONAIRES' ROW by Erin Lindsey also fits both of those categories. 

Vampires are quite popular and I was delighted to discover a Vampire Mystery series. THE VAMPIRE KNITTING CLUB is the first in this series by Nancy Warren. Other top paranormal entries this year include A MAGICAL MATCH by Juliet Blackwell, CLAIRVOYANT AND PRESENT DANGER by Lena Gregory, and the new Magic Garden Mystery series by Amanda Flower which starts with FLOWERS AND FOUL PLAY.

I also love Gothics and THE BOOK OF THE BELOVED by Carolyn Haines fits that bill.

A historical series that really stood out for me is the Art Deco series by L. A. Chandlar. This series really should be read in order so start with THE SILVER GUN and continue with THE GOLD PAWN. Other historical mysteries that stood out this year include DEADLY FASHION by Kate Parker, MURDER, SHE REPORTED by Peg Cochran, and TURNING THE TIDE by Edith Maxwell. I also adore series that combines the present with the past. PAST AND PRESENT by Judy Sheluk is the second Marketville Mystery and I read all three of the Dr. Pimms Intermillennial Sleuth Mystery series by L.J. M Owen this year: OLMEC OBITUARY, MAYAN MENDACITY,  and EGYPTIAN ENIGMA.

The return I was most excited about was seeing Jack Shepard again. I waited ten years to hear from my PI and was thrilled for his return in THE GHOST AND THE BOGUS BESTSELLER by Cleo Coyle.

I also love food and was thrilled to find two new series showcasing Chinese and Mediterranean restaurants. I love Vivien Chien's Noodle House Mystery series, not only for her great characters and intriguing mysteries, but the setting, Cleveland, Ohio, where I once lived. Start with DEATH BY DUMPLING and continue with DIM SUM OF ALL FEARS. Baklava is one of my favorite desserts and, although known for their hummus bar, I might be able to find some in Tina Kashian's Kebab Kitchen Mystery series. Start with HUMMUS AND HOMICIDE and continue onto STABBED IN THE BAKLAVA. Want some breakfast? I love Sarah Fox's Pancake House Mystery series. The fourth book in this series was released this year, YEAST OF EDEN. She also started a new series, the Literary Pub Mystery series. I really enjoyed WINE AND PUNISHMENT. When speaking of food we can't forget beverages and I love the Whisky Business Mystery series by Melinda Mullet. DEADLY DRAM, the third book in the series, was released this year.

I'm fond of several religious mysteries and was delighted to discover Sister Agnes. You can find her in the Sister Agatha and Father Selwyn Mystery series by Jane Willan. Check out my review of the second book in the series, THE HOUR OF DEATH.

New books in favorite series also include LETHAL IN OLD LACE by Duffy Brown and TOUCAN KEEP A SECRET by Donna Andrews.

If you like short stories, you mustn't miss Gigi Pandian's THE CAMBODIAN CURSE & OTHER STORIES: A JAYA JONES TREASURE HUNT MYSTERY COLLECTION.

I read many more delightful mysteries and I know that I'm leaving out some great ones...but I hope you enjoy seeing some of the books that meant a lot to me this year. I'm certain that 2019 will bring even more great reading.

Murder on Millionaires' Row - A Review

Review

MURDER ON MILLIONAIRES' ROW

By Erin Lindsey

In Gilded Age Manhattan Rose Gallagher is a clever girl with a good head on her shoulders. Working as a maid on Fifth Avenue, she doesn't forget her roots in the rough neighborhood of Five Points. When her boss goes missing, a boss whom she deeply admires, she knows she can't trust the police to pursue the matter. Despite being warned, Rose takes matters into her own hands and begins to investigate. What she discovers is more than she ever bargained for. A whole new world of ghosts, portals, and luck has opened up and Rose Gallagher's life is forever changed.

MURDER ON MILLIONAIRES' ROW starts as a normal historical mystery, but quickly develops into an exciting paranormal adventure. I love the historical nature of the story, the author providing well researched details of life in the late 1800s. I grinned at the mention of the American Society for Psychical Research as well as its British counterpart having read several of their journals!

The depth of characterization here is wonderful, each person unique, with their own story embedded within the mystery itself. Rose is much more than just a love struck girl with gumption. She's loyal with a good mind and a courageous soul. Subtle nuanced behavior gives readers a glimpse into the minds and motivations of all the characters making me want to learn more about all them. Not so subtle behavior as well adds spice as well - I can picture Clara with her frying pan! Each person is developed to the extent that almost all could star in their own novel! And I'd want to read them all! I want to know more about Mrs. Meyer. I'd love to know how Mrs. Weber and Mr. Smith discovered their abilities. There's so much more to The Dragon and The Bloodhound. I'd love to explore Wang's grocery and find the perfect tea for me.

MURDER ON MILLIONAIRES' ROW is a fantastic debut mystery. A multitude of nuanced characters, life and death situations, and a fascinating storyline create a thrilling mystery that captivated me from start to finish!

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Murder on Millionaires' Row by Erin Lindsey. This book was released earlier this month.

In Gilded Age Manhattan Rose Gallagher is a clever girl with a good head on her shoulders. Working as a maid on Fifth Avenue, she doesn't forget her roots in the rough neighborhood of Five Points. When her boss goes missing, a boss whom she deeply admires, she knows she can't trust the police to pursue the matter. Despite being warned, Rose takes matters into her own hands and begins to investigate. What she discovers is more than she ever bargained for. A whole new world of ghosts, portals, and luck has opened up and Rose Gallagher's life is forever changed.

An Author’s Struggle with Purpose - Guest Post & Giveaway

Julie Anne Lindsey is taking over Cozy Up With Kathy today. Julie writes The Geek Girl Mystery series. A Geek Girl's Guide to Murder is the first book in the series and was just released August 31!

An Author’s Struggle with Purpose.

Over the years, I’ve tried my hand at a number of different genres. It’s no secret it hasn’t been easy for me to find my voice as an author. In fact, I struggle most days, with whether or not this job is for me. Don’t get me wrong. I *want* this to be for me, but deciding to become an author is kind of like deciding to be an actor or recording artist. As a Midwestern mother of three, the idea even more farfetched. The industry is already flooded with outstanding talent and unbelievable competition. If that’s not enough to scare a writer away, the ever changing industry should be. Every day is a surprise. Today’s worldwide phenomenon is tomorrow’s immediate rejection. It’s basically impossible and I should totally walk away. Then again, I’m a writer, which translates roughly to my own kind of bananas and nothing dissuades me. I just try harder. I’ve said it before. I think “Writer” should be listed on the DSM-IV as a personality disorder. The drive to write is overpowering. My reasons vary, but they are always stronger than logic and tougher than the daily rejection. No matter what, I want to write.

But what do I write? Where do I fit in? Who am I in this industry?

I remember trying on my mother’s wedding gown as a child and wondering if I’d ever fill it out properly and maybe, if I was really lucky, look beautiful as she did wearing it. Writing is like that for me. How else can I ever hope to share shelf space with my favorite authors? How can I ever compare? I’ve tried writing everything from paranormal to sweet romance in the hopes of reaching someone who needs a smile. I wanted to make a difference in someone’s day. I want to give them a moment of reprieve from whatever ails them. That’s why I write cozy mysteries. Cozies are upbeat, lighthearted little puzzles packed with old friends and new laughs. Do you need a smile? Come closer.

If you’re in the mood for a pick-me-up, I hope you’ll check out A Geek Girl’s Guide to Murder. More than that, I hope it will make you smile!

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A Geek Girl’s Guide to Murder, The Geek Girl Mysteries, book 1

IT manager Mia Connors is up to her tortoiseshell glasses in technical drama when a glitch in the Horseshoe Falls email system disrupts security and sends errant messages to residents of the gated community. The snafu's timing couldn't be worse—Renaissance Faire season is in full swing and Mia's family's business relies on her presence.

Mia doesn't have time to hunt down a computer hacker. Her best friend has disappeared, and she finds another of her friends murdered—in her office. When the hunky new head of Horseshoe Falls security identifies Mia as the prime suspect, her anxiety level registers on the Richter scale.

Eager to clear her name, Mia moves into action to locate her missing buddy and find out who killed their friend. But her quick tongue gets her into trouble with more than the new head of security. When Mia begins receiving threats, the killer makes it clear that he's closer than she'd ever imagined.

Amazon Barnes&Noble Carina Press iTunes Kobo

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About Julie:

Julie Anne Lindsey is a multi-genre author who writes the stories that keep her up at night. She’s a self-proclaimed nerd with a penchant for words and proclivity for fun. Julie lives in rural Ohio with her husband and three small children. Today, she hopes to make someone smile. One day she plans to change the world.

Julie also writes The Patience Price Mysteries series.

Learn About Julie at:

Julieannelindsey.com

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Meet Julie Anne Lindsey & Contest

Please, help me welcome Julie Anne Lindsey to the blog today. Julie writes the Patience Price Mystery series. The third and final book in the series, Murder in Real Time, was released September 29th.

Kathy: Setting is so important, especially in mystery series. How did you choose Chincoteague Island?

JAL: Oh, there was no other choice. I fell in love with Chincoteague when I visited several years ago. I’ve been dreaming of it ever since. I jokingly say I brought part of it home in my soul (and I’m not sure how much of that is a joke). Have you ever visited a place you instinctively didn’t want to leave? Like a piece of you connected with the location somehow? That was my experience on the island. I’ve set many stories there, trying to relive my visit and reimagine the unbelievable beauty. If you’re looking for a vacation destination, I highly recommend Chincoteague. – but be warned: you might not want to leave and it *might* turn you into a writer.


Kathy: Ghost hunts and other paranormal investigations have become quite popular. How did you decide to add this activity to Murder in Real Time?

JAL: My heroine in this series is Patience Price, who’s never quite lived up to her namesake, so in each story, I try to think up a new way to make her crazy. In book one, I use the high school soul mate who broke her heart (and his mother). In book two, I bring in busloads of birders. In book three, I thought….I bet she hates reality shows. I bet she’d really loathe all their fans and hoopla invading her island. Voila! Irritating Patience is one of my favorite things because she’s amazingly adept at “sucking it up” despite her desire to scream and hose people right off the island. I did it for her.


Kathy: Do you believe in ghosts? Have you ever had a ghostly encounter? Or witnessed other paranormal activity?

JAL: I don’t believe in ghosts, though I am afraid of everything, including but not limited to my shadow. I’ve never had a ghostly encounter or witnessed any paranormal activity. I do believe that people are unimaginably dangerous and I carry a gun. Just kidding. Not really. *nods*


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

JAL: I first fell in love with Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum books. Not exactly, “cozy,” but the idea of an amateur female sleuth made me happy. I devoured them and went looking for more. That’s when a librarian told me about cozies. From there, I chose authors like Gemma Halliday and her Spying in High Heels books. My style, I think, is similar to these authors because they’re the ones who speak to me. I prefer shenanigans to dry wit and enjoy a side dish of romance with my laughs. These are the kinds of books that drew me in and they’re the kinds of cozies I look for when I read.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

JAL: Yes. I’ve written small town romance and YA (fictions for teens). Becoming an author, for me, has been like any other position in life. It’s a process. There’s growing pains and self-exploration involved. I’m taking time to find my place here, hoping to figure out where my voice is best suited and who I am as an author.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

JAL: The one liner Carina Press devised to encapsulate the series reads like this Mayhem, murder and a sexy secret agent follow downsized FBI worker Patience Price when she returns to her sleepy seaside hometown of Chincoteague, Virginia.

One sentence leave out a lot, but it also says so much. I smile a little whenever I read it. Mayhem, murder and Sebastian all follow her home to Chincoteague, then the mayhem and murder never seem to stop. Patience is a bit of a modern day Lucille Ball at times, getting herself into things in the name of curiosity. Her adventures start out reasonable and take a turn she never sees coming. That part’s my doing. *insert proud author smile*


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

JAL: I don’t have a favorite character from my own stories, but my favorite character of all time is Alice from Alice in Wonderland. I’ve been in love with her all my life. Her spunk and curiosity captivated me when I was a child and as an adult, I admire her tenacious, brave nature. She was a bit mouthy for a girl in those days and I love her all the more for speaking her mind despite the time and strange circumstances.


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

JAL: Yes. A few things started this series. The first is my obsession with Chincoteague, Virginia. Writing stories on the island helps me revisit whenever I want and I sincerely love that.

The second inspiration for the series is a friend of mine who works at the FBI in HR. I always thought the way people responded to her job was hilarious. They wanted inside secrets about investigations or other dirty details. They never heard the HR part. They heard FBI and went on tangents about their favorite crime shows. I modeled Patience after my friend. She’s a genuinely good-natured, upbeat, delight.

The final inspiration was a song by Katy Perry called The One that Got Away. It’s about a girl wondering “what could have been” in regards to a lost love. I wondered, what if he got away, a decade passed, and he came back? Would she still want him? Would she still be angry he broke her heart? Would she run to him or shove an ice cream in his nose?


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

JAL: Six years ago, I saw Twilight and something changed. It was a very random night. I was up nursing a newborn. I was sleep deprived and desperate. Twilight was on Pay Per View. I watched. I was drawn into the world and when I learned it was a book, I read the books. It was the first time I’d read anything like it. In fact, I hadn’t read for pleasure in years. My book shelves had become overcrowded with “How-To” numbers. Be a better wife. A better mother. A better Christian. Reading had become exhausting and defeating. I could never do or be half the things described in those books.

The Twilight stories lurked in my mind, popping up throughout the days as I changed diapers, potty trained my toddler, homeschooled my kindergartener, and I needed to know more about the woman who did this to me. I looked for more information online, and found an interview with the author. As it turned out, she was a stay at home mom, like me. She’d never written a novel before and her degree was in English, not fiction or writing. That was the day I opened a search engine and typed in “how to write a book.” I knew nothing, so I started at the beginning and set a goal to complete an entire novel. I did this in the hopes of getting published one day. I’d never written a novel before and I’ve never written without the goal of publication.


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

JAL: Oh, fun! I’d definitely invite Gemma Halliday because I think we could be girlfriends. I’d invite Stephen King because I have so much to learn and he’s the master. If I could talk to him about craft or brainstorm some story plots, I’d be happy forever. I’d love to sit with Emily Dickinson and ask what life was like for her as a writer, in a time when women were thought to have nothing to say and pen names were a must. Was it lonely? Writing can be lonely, even today, with the Internet to connect us. Who did she talk to about things? Writers are already an odd and often misunderstood bunch, I can’t imagine how difficult it was for women writers in that time to find companionship and not sound in need of an asylum.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

JAL: I’ve got a Kindle load of books I can’t wait to dig into, but I’m starting with the books coming to (or in) the theatre. I like to read the book before seeing the movie, so I have many to read! For example: Gone Girl, Maze Runner, The Fault in Our Stars, If I Stay, and The Giver are waiting for me right now.


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

JAL: Aside from writing and reading (which I do with every free moment throughout my day/week/life), I’m into my shows. I get very involved with the characters I watch on television and I have a list of shows ten miles long that have been on hiatus all summer and I’m dying to get back to ASAP.


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

JAL: Milk, cereal, peanut butter & jelly. I have three kids under 12, can you tell?


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

JAL: The Patience Price Mysteries were designed to be a three book miniseries, but I miss the island and may need to see about finding my way back. The characters are real to me and I think about them every day.

I’ve just finished writing the first in a new series similar to this one. These books are under contract as A Geek Girl’s Guide to Murder, but the title will be changed once the publisher begins to prep it. The heroine in my Geek Girl stories is a modern day geek, tech savvy, enjoys comic books and renaissance fairs. She’s a ton of fun and I can’t wait to see her meet readers next year. She’ll put her wit to work and solve some murders. Maybe find love along the way.


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

JAL: The best thing about being an author is that I have the privilege to interrupt someone’s crappy day and insert a smile. I try my best to add humor in every chapter of my books. I want to make people smile, give them a small reprieve from the challenges of their life. Unfortunately, my life is small, and I can only cheer up those in my reach. As a writer, my reach becomes unlimited and I love that.

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Murder in Real Time

With the chaos of summer tourists and fall birders out of town, counselor Patience Price is looking forward to the quiet life she remembers. She longs for some peace. And an apple fritter. But the calm is cut short when a reality show sets up camp to film a special about ghosts on her little island. Now fans, reporters and crew have flocked to sleepy Chincoteague. Who knew ghost hunters had an entourage?

When two cast members are killed in a room at the local B&B—a room usually occupied by Patience's FBI agent boyfriend, Sebastian—she finds herself on the case. Sebastian doesn't want Patience ruffling any feathers but, as always, she can't help herself.

Patience promises to let Sebastian handle the investigation—he is FBI, after all—but after a drive-by shooting, her wicked curiosity gets the best of her. And with the TV show forging ahead with filming, the list of suspects (and the line of food trucks) only grows. But has the shooter already flown the coop? And how do you find a killer when you don't know who the target is?

Amazon Barnes&Noble Carina Press

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About Julie:

Julie Anne Lindsey is a multi-genre author who writes the stories that keep her up at night. She’s a self-proclaimed nerd with a penchant for words and proclivity for fun. Julie lives in rural Ohio with her husband and three small children. Today, she hopes to make someone smile. One day she plans to change the world.

Murder in Real Time is the conclusion to The Patience Price Mysteries series, from Carina Press.

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Learn About Julie at:

Julieannelindsey.com

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