Shake-speared in the Park - A Review, Excerpt, & Giveaway

 Review

SHAKE-SPEARED IN THE PARK by Joy Ann Ribar
The Second Bay Browning Mystery 

 

The Spring Semester may have ended, but school isn't over for Professor Bay Browning. To fulfill volunteer requirements for Flourish College, Bay is assistant director of the school's summer production, a Shakespeare inspired play she co-wrote. With a short production time the set is being constructed as the actors rehearse. A scream pierced the night. Talon Hunt has fallen from the unfinished balcony after a mock sword fight. Was this a tragic accident or something more? There's more drama around the actors than in the play itself! Bay will have to keep her eyes and ears open as she discovers more about the elite of Angel Bird Bluff than she'd care to know.

 

Things are different for the wealthy and the second Bay Browning Mystery enters that world of legacy students and privileged adults who can seemingly make problems disappear by throwing money and power around. It's a story of how wealth can shape families, how scapegoats can be found, and underdogs championed. It also shows how some people are able to grow while others stagnate. and still others regress.

 

There's a lot to love in SHAKE-SPEARED IN THE PARK, a confounding mystery, intriguing characters, interesting dynamics, and more. As a former theatre major I loved the concept of a college's summer theatrical production, especially one that weaves the works of Shakespeare into a new play. I also loved how Posey, Cass's new boss decided on a Shakespearean theme for her party along with a game I'd love to play. And what a party it was. I enjoyed the interactions between Bay and Detective Downing as her production was plagued, not only by death, but by less serious mishaps as well. I appreciate the way she works with him to solve the crimes as well as how her sister brings her skills to the table.

SHAKE-SPEARED IN THE PARK is an exquisitely wrought mystery combining the worlds of the elite and academia with a theatrical background. This is fast becoming a favorite series and I can't wait to dig into the next one!

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

SHAKE-SPEARED IN THE PARK

by Joy Ann Ribar

March 17th - April 11, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

A BAY BROWNING MYSTERY

 

When Bay Browning helps direct the Flourish College summer theater production, “Shakespeare’s Couch,” she doesn’t plan for murder at the first practice.

Someone wants revenge against the elite cast members, as more terror unfolds on stage and backstage with each rehearsal. What should be a lighthearted parody on The Bard and his characters is cursed from the start, even without someone shouting “Macbeth” in the theater. Detective Downing takes charge of the crime, but Bay and her puzzle-solving cohort, Jen Yoo, follow their own script behind the scenes. Cassandra, Bay’s extraordinary sister, makes her own dramatic entrance on the case. After all, Cass is now the personal assistant to one of the elites living the high life on the bluff above Prairie Ridge. How many tragic scenes will be scripted before the villain faces the final curtain?

Praise for Shake-speared in the Park:

"A clever cozy that reads like an elusive buried treasure, that, once uncovered, shines with a burnished gold. Shakespearean scholars can revel throughout, as a college summer play, Shakespeare’s Couch, features a myriad of familiar characters, representing their plays. A costume party with more Shakespearean identities milling about provides sheer fun and frolic. The best part, however, is the thorough depiction of humanity, characteristic of Ribar’s writing. Even secondary characters come alive with strengths and foibles that delight and endear."
~ Saralyn Richard, author of the Detective Parrott mystery series, Bad Blood Sisters, and Mrs. Oliver’s Twist

"Ribar serves up wicked, clever fun in 'Shake-speared in the Park,' the second installment in her Bay Browning mystery series. A young man with much promise falls from a stage-prop balcony. He's dead when he lands, but that's not what killed him. Was his brother, the wayward son, involved? His best friend? Or one of the wealthy equestrian crowd? Then, another death, this time in a greenhouse. It's like 'Knives Out' meets Agatha Christie. Suspects abound. Two sisters—one a killer magnet, the other an ex-con—are determined to find out. The escalating tempo keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the end!"
~ Laurie Buchanan, author of the Sean McPherson crime thriller novels

"In this fast-paced mystery and nod to Shakespeare, the murderous shenanigans would please the Bard himself! Professor Bay Browning’s play rehearsals go awry with deadly weapons, poisons, and just about anything else a playwright might use to scare or 'off' someone in dramatic fashion. As in 'Romeo & Juliet,' differences of class and money between families put a small Wisconsin college and Bay in the crosshairs. Replete with a twisty costume party, this novel opens the curtain on an entertaining theater production with actors poised to take their final bow, pun intended. Ribar balances scenes effectively between amateur detectives Bay and her sister Cass, the latter a plant aficionado and former prison inmate. To borrow from the Bard, 'To read or not to read?' The answer is easy: This is fun."
~ Christine DeSmet, author, Fudge Shop Mystery Series and Mischief in Moonstone Series

Book Details:

Genre: Blended Mystery: Traditional Mystery with Paranormal Twists
Published by: Wine Glass Press
Publication Date: February 2025
Number of Pages: 359
ISBN: 9781959078272 (ISBN10: 1959078275)
Series: Bay Browning Mysteries: Book Two
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads

Read an excerpt:

Carillon Tower Park was buzzing with activity when Bay arrived for rehearsal. Desmond Carver, the director, was only steps ahead of her, so she dashed to catch up. Bay smiled at his signature bobbing walk on those extra-long legs that might belong to a pro basketball player instead of a theater professor.

“Desmond, hey. Looks like the students are psyched about the show.” Bay nodded toward the outdoor theater area where a portable tech booth had been set up. People inside were testing spotlights and sound effects.

The stage was midway through set construction showing false stone walls and two framed second story balconies. Someone was sweeping the stage free of pine needles, while a couple of others were taping the floor where furniture would go. Bay waved at Jen Yoo, her art professor friend, who was painting a flat with some students.

“It’s a positive sign when they show up early. Believe me, once we’re in the trenches, some will find reasons not to show up at all.” Desmond set a stack of scripts on one of the seats near the middle of the theater. “Actors,” he said using air quotes around the word.

Bay’s optimism didn’t dwindle. She was pleased with the turnout for auditions, considering it was a summer production, meaning many students were gone or working. The fact she and Desmond had backups for the main roles revealed enthusiasm for the show.

Desmond handed her a theater badge and key for the rooms beyond the stage. “By the way, in case I forget later, thanks so much for volunteering to help with the play. It can be a thankless job.”

Bay grinned but wondered why Desmond was being so pessimistic. He wasn’t close to retirement, maybe ten years older than Bay, and she’d pegged him as carefree and upbeat. Then again, in the two years she’d been a Flourish professor, she’d had a handful of short conversations with him.

At seven p.m. on the dot, the clock tower bell rang out the hour and Desmond spoke through a megaphone he’d brought to rehearsal. “Let’s get going. We start on time. We end on time. That’s my number one rule.”

To Bay’s surprise, every student hushed without delay. She’d heard Desmond was respected, and he knew these students from past plays. Many were seniors doing a final postgraduation show before entering the real world.

“For the first few rehearsals, we’re going to need to work around the set builders and the tech crew setting up lights and testing sounds. This isn’t a typical show. Summer theater is a shortened schedule, so we’re putting an entire production together in short order.” Desmond handed printed schedules to Bay, who passed them out to the actors and crew.

It wasn’t quite June, thankfully, because performances were marked for the last week of that month, just past the celebration of Midsummer on June twenty-fourth.

“You’ll notice on the schedule that all lines must be memorized by June tenth. That’s two weeks, my friends. Let’s make it happen.” Desmond used his teacher voice. Even Bay snapped to attention.

“Places everyone. We’ll start with the prologue and go straight through from act one as far as we can until eight-thirty. The script notes some introductory music, but we won’t add that for a couple of weeks. Proceed, Kitt.”

Bay and Desmond watched from the back third of the theater, taking notes as lines were delivered, stopping when necessary to help with enunciation or cadence. At the end of the second act, Desmond announced a seven-minute break, then headed to the tech booth to talk about lighting.

Bay noticed he seemed nervous about the tech crew being run by an intern. His normal production partner, Leo, another theater professor, was spending summer break in New York City at a Broadway intensive master class. Leo recommended a theater grad student from Madison to take his place.

As lights flashed on and off in different positions, Bay watched the techies at the booth. Desmond pointed at the script as intern Evan made notes, then flashed the light Desmond asked for. Bay noticed Evan’s body posture: alert, attentive, like a golden retriever eager to please. In contrast, Desmond alternated running a hand through the twists on top of his head, placing his hands on his hips, then rubbing the back of his neck before repeating the moves again.

“That looks intense.” Jen Yoo was sitting by Bay, a clean paint brush in one hand.

“Hey, Jen. Yes, I’ve never seen this side of Desmond. How about you?”

Jen shrugged. “I haven’t worked on a summer production in some time. The younger Desmond was laid-back. But some of us lose our patience as we age. Thankfully, I don’t have that problem.” She snickered.

Bay turned her full attention to Jen. “Why are you working on this production, anyway?”

“Two reasons. One: It fulfills my volunteer hours for the whole year. Two: It’s a show you wrote. I’m proud of you and want to see how it turns out.” Jen leaned her head over to meet Bay’s.

With break wrapping up, chatter from the stage echoed around the quiet outdoors. When a commotion ensued, Bay chalked it up to high energy from a new show, the honeymoon period. But then a loud thud sounded, someone began shrieking, and a cacophony of shouts and running feet ensued.

Bay, Jen, and Desmond ran to the stage, with the tech crew close behind. The adults vaulted onto the stage where the lead actor, Talon Hunt, lay crumpled in a twisted heap.

“Everybody back up,” Desmond shouted.

“He fell off the balcony,” one of the students called out.

“I didn’t mean to. We were goofing around, practicing a duel.” Jackson Lange knelt over Talon, his chest heaving, his face distraught.

Desmond, Jen, and Bay knelt beside Talon too, and Jackson stood up and looked away. Desmond checked Talon’s pulse, shook his head, listened for a heartbeat, and shook his head again. Bay called 911.

“Let’s straighten him a bit so I can do CPR.” Desmond motioned for Jen and Bay to get on either side of his legs and they gingerly turned him.

Desmond was still administering chest compressions and breaths when the emergency team arrived to take over. Thirty minutes later, the EMTs pronounced Talon dead.

***

Excerpt from Shake-speared in the Park by Joy Ann Ribar. Copyright 2025 by Joy Ann Ribar. Reproduced with permission from Joy Ann Ribar. All rights reserved.

 

 

Author Bio:

Joy Ann Ribar is an RV author, writing on the road wherever her husband and their Winnebago View wanders. Joy’s cocktail of careers includes news reporter, paralegal, English educator, and aquaponics greenhouse technician, all of which prove useful in penning mysteries. Her cozy Deep Lakes Mysteries, feature baker/vintner Frankie Champagne, who moonlights as an investigative reporter. Joy’s Bay Browning Mysteries blend edgy, traditional, and paranormal elements twisted around classical literary themes. Joy loves to bake, read, research wines, and explore nature. Her writing has received awards and recognition from WWA, PenCraft Book Awards, Book Fest, Reader’s Favorite, and Chanticleer Cozy and Not-So-Cozy awards.

Catch Up With Joy Ann Ribar:

JoyRibar.com
Joy's Substack
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads
BookBub - @ribarjoy
Instagram - @authorjoyribar
Facebook - @JoyRibarAuthor

 

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews, interviews, guest posts, and opportunities to WIN in the giveaway!

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

 

Don't Miss Your Chance to Win! Enter Today!

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

Can't see the giveaway? Click Here!

 

 

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

 

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Shake-speared in the Park by Joy Ann Ribar. This book is the second in the Bay Browning Mystery series and was released last month.

The Spring Semester may have ended, but school isn't over for Professor Bay Browning. To fulfill volunteer requirements for Flourish College Bay is assistant director of the school's summer production, A Shakespeare inspired play she co-wrote. With a short production time the set is being constructed as the actors rehearse. A scream pierced the night. Talon Hunt has fallen from the unfinished balcony after a mock sword fight. Was this a tragic accident or something more? There's more drama around the actors than in the play itself! Bay will have to keep her eyes and ears open as she discovers more about the elite of Angel Bird Bluff than she's care to know.

Shake-speared in the Park - An Interview, Excerpt, & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Joy Ann Ribnar to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Joy Ann writes the Bay Browning Mystery series. SHAKE-SPEARED IN THE PARK is the second book in the series and was released last month. Be sure to return Friday, when I'll post my review!

Kathy: In SHAKE-SPEARED IN THE PARK Bay Browning helps direct the Flourish College summer theater production of Shakespeare's Couch. As a theatre major I'm curious, have you ever been involved in mounting a production?

JAR: I’ve been an assistant director in high school productions, but most of my time has been on stage from high school through community theater musicals and comedies. I understand the process of producing and directing a show because in community theater, everyone’s involved from painting sets, to creating costumes, to doing make-up and finding props. I love theater. My favorite shows I performed in are White Christmas, The Music Man, and Drinking Habits, where I played a wine-making nun trying to save the convent.

Kathy: Shakespeare was integral to my training and I still love the bard. Are you a fan?

JAR: Huge fan! I’ve never acted in a Shakespeare play, but I’ve performed monologues. As a high school and college educator, I’ve taught many of The Bard’s plays. We always take parts and read aloud the plays together in class, and that is the key to helping students understand and love The Bard, too. My favorite plays: Othello and Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Kathy: The Bay Browning Mystery series has a paranormal bent. Why choose to add something otherworldly?

JAR: Bay needed a good partner to contrast and complement her; Cassandra. I named Cass after the Greek maiden Cassandra, who has the gift of prophecy, but nobody believes her predictions. I decided my Cassandra would be a modern version from Greek mythology. Her gift is part of her character arc. As a child and teen, her gift makes her an outcast. Then, Cass uses her gift to perfect her grifting skills. Now she’s out of prison and trying to use her gifts for good.

Kathy: What first drew you to mysteries?

JAR: My older sister read the Trixie Belden series, so I grabbed them as she moved on to the next one. My local library had shelves of Nancy Drew mysteries, too, so there was always something new to check out. I loved the adventures, the puzzles to solve, and the brave young women taking risks. I graduated to Agatha Christie, Phyllis Whitney, and Taylor Caldwell. Reading women authors writing about smart, confident female characters, made me feel confident, too. When I decided to write something, mysteries were a natural fit.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

JAR: I wrote a few flash fiction shorts of various genres, and essays as well. I used to be a newspaper reporter, so I feel comfortable writing non-fiction, too.

Kathy: Tell us about your series. 

JAR: The Bay Browning mysteries are literature-themed and edgy with a paranormal twist. Bay, a college professor, and Cassandra, an ex-con with the gift of extra-sensory perception meld their talents and contrasting personalities to solve crimes in a small Wisconsin city.

The Deep Lakes Mystery series offer a light-hearted look at murder, recipes included. Frankie Champagne, together with best friend Carmen, own Bubble & Bake, a bakery/ wine lounge in a Wisconsin tourist town where murder is an occasional visitor. Frankie somehow lands in the middle of crime scenes and dives right in to investigate, proving she can go toe-to-toe with the pros.

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

JAR: All of them in one way or another because they all serve a purpose, but that’s a coward’s answer. I love Cassandra because she’s gritty and imperfect. Like all of us, she’s a genuine work in progress, and readers can see her evolution and her struggle to overcome a troubled past, learn from it, and redefine herself. She’s relatable and heartwarming.

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

JAR: I wanted my second series to be something quite different from my first cozy bakery/winery series. I had recently retired from teaching and missed having rich discussions about literature, poetry, classics, and Shakespeare with my students. That’s when it dawned on me to bring literature into a new series with an English professor as one of the main characters (Bay Browning). I think it’s interesting to have a reluctant sleuth as a lead character in a mystery series. Bay would prefer reading books or sitting in her office preparing lessons, but she’s dragged into a complicated murder investigation as a consultant because of her literary skills. The notion of creating literature-themed mysteries sounded worthwhile and fun.

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work? 

JAR: My husband and sisters nudged me after I wrote my first mystery. I sent it to a publisher, was rejected, then sent it on to a smaller publisher where I found someone who would hold my hand through the process. Together, we published the first four books I wrote, and then I went on to publish independently.

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

JAR: J.R.R. Tolkein, Maya Angelou, Julia Child, and Jane Austen. No party would be complete without Jane.

Kathy: What are you currently reading? 

JAR: THE GLASSMAKER by Tracy Chevalier, a novel about a female glassmaker during the Renaissance in Murano, an island near Venice.


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

JAR:  I love hiking, sight seeing anywhere in the world, history, and baking. I enjoy experimenting with different spices and combining flavors to create recipes for my first series.

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

JAR: Fresh fruit (berries, apples, grapefruit), hard boiled eggs, brie cheese, and butter.

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

JAR: I’m working on the next Bay Browning mystery: POETRY SLAMMED, featuring a newly-discovered Emily Dickinson poem and a missing English professor from Bay’s department.

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

JAR: 1) Talking to readers at in-person events or online author takeovers. 2) Creating a world and playing in it!

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

SHAKE-SPEARED IN THE PARK

by Joy Ann Ribar

March 17th - April 11, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

A BAY BROWNING MYSTERY

 

When Bay Browning helps direct the Flourish College summer theater production, “Shakespeare’s Couch,” she doesn’t plan for murder at the first practice.

Someone wants revenge against the elite cast members, as more terror unfolds on stage and backstage with each rehearsal. What should be a lighthearted parody on The Bard and his characters is cursed from the start, even without someone shouting “Macbeth” in the theater. Detective Downing takes charge of the crime, but Bay and her puzzle-solving cohort, Jen Yoo, follow their own script behind the scenes. Cassandra, Bay’s extraordinary sister, makes her own dramatic entrance on the case. After all, Cass is now the personal assistant to one of the elites living the high life on the bluff above Prairie Ridge. How many tragic scenes will be scripted before the villain faces the final curtain?

Praise for Shake-speared in the Park:

"A clever cozy that reads like an elusive buried treasure, that, once uncovered, shines with a burnished gold. Shakespearean scholars can revel throughout, as a college summer play, Shakespeare’s Couch, features a myriad of familiar characters, representing their plays. A costume party with more Shakespearean identities milling about provides sheer fun and frolic. The best part, however, is the thorough depiction of humanity, characteristic of Ribar’s writing. Even secondary characters come alive with strengths and foibles that delight and endear."
~ Saralyn Richard, author of the Detective Parrott mystery series, Bad Blood Sisters, and Mrs. Oliver’s Twist

"Ribar serves up wicked, clever fun in 'Shake-speared in the Park,' the second installment in her Bay Browning mystery series. A young man with much promise falls from a stage-prop balcony. He's dead when he lands, but that's not what killed him. Was his brother, the wayward son, involved? His best friend? Or one of the wealthy equestrian crowd? Then, another death, this time in a greenhouse. It's like 'Knives Out' meets Agatha Christie. Suspects abound. Two sisters—one a killer magnet, the other an ex-con—are determined to find out. The escalating tempo keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the end!"
~ Laurie Buchanan, author of the Sean McPherson crime thriller novels

"In this fast-paced mystery and nod to Shakespeare, the murderous shenanigans would please the Bard himself! Professor Bay Browning’s play rehearsals go awry with deadly weapons, poisons, and just about anything else a playwright might use to scare or 'off' someone in dramatic fashion. As in 'Romeo & Juliet,' differences of class and money between families put a small Wisconsin college and Bay in the crosshairs. Replete with a twisty costume party, this novel opens the curtain on an entertaining theater production with actors poised to take their final bow, pun intended. Ribar balances scenes effectively between amateur detectives Bay and her sister Cass, the latter a plant aficionado and former prison inmate. To borrow from the Bard, 'To read or not to read?' The answer is easy: This is fun."
~ Christine DeSmet, author, Fudge Shop Mystery Series and Mischief in Moonstone Series

Book Details:

Genre: Blended Mystery: Traditional Mystery with Paranormal Twists
Published by: Wine Glass Press
Publication Date: February 2025
Number of Pages: 359
ISBN: 9781959078272 (ISBN10: 1959078275)
Series: Bay Browning Mysteries: Book Two
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads

Read an excerpt:

Carillon Tower Park was buzzing with activity when Bay arrived for rehearsal. Desmond Carver, the director, was only steps ahead of her, so she dashed to catch up. Bay smiled at his signature bobbing walk on those extra-long legs that might belong to a pro basketball player instead of a theater professor.

“Desmond, hey. Looks like the students are psyched about the show.” Bay nodded toward the outdoor theater area where a portable tech booth had been set up. People inside were testing spotlights and sound effects.

The stage was midway through set construction showing false stone walls and two framed second story balconies. Someone was sweeping the stage free of pine needles, while a couple of others were taping the floor where furniture would go. Bay waved at Jen Yoo, her art professor friend, who was painting a flat with some students.

“It’s a positive sign when they show up early. Believe me, once we’re in the trenches, some will find reasons not to show up at all.” Desmond set a stack of scripts on one of the seats near the middle of the theater. “Actors,” he said using air quotes around the word.

Bay’s optimism didn’t dwindle. She was pleased with the turnout for auditions, considering it was a summer production, meaning many students were gone or working. The fact she and Desmond had backups for the main roles revealed enthusiasm for the show.

Desmond handed her a theater badge and key for the rooms beyond the stage. “By the way, in case I forget later, thanks so much for volunteering to help with the play. It can be a thankless job.”

Bay grinned but wondered why Desmond was being so pessimistic. He wasn’t close to retirement, maybe ten years older than Bay, and she’d pegged him as carefree and upbeat. Then again, in the two years she’d been a Flourish professor, she’d had a handful of short conversations with him.

At seven p.m. on the dot, the clock tower bell rang out the hour and Desmond spoke through a megaphone he’d brought to rehearsal. “Let’s get going. We start on time. We end on time. That’s my number one rule.”

To Bay’s surprise, every student hushed without delay. She’d heard Desmond was respected, and he knew these students from past plays. Many were seniors doing a final postgraduation show before entering the real world.

“For the first few rehearsals, we’re going to need to work around the set builders and the tech crew setting up lights and testing sounds. This isn’t a typical show. Summer theater is a shortened schedule, so we’re putting an entire production together in short order.” Desmond handed printed schedules to Bay, who passed them out to the actors and crew.

It wasn’t quite June, thankfully, because performances were marked for the last week of that month, just past the celebration of Midsummer on June twenty-fourth.

“You’ll notice on the schedule that all lines must be memorized by June tenth. That’s two weeks, my friends. Let’s make it happen.” Desmond used his teacher voice. Even Bay snapped to attention.

“Places everyone. We’ll start with the prologue and go straight through from act one as far as we can until eight-thirty. The script notes some introductory music, but we won’t add that for a couple of weeks. Proceed, Kitt.”

Bay and Desmond watched from the back third of the theater, taking notes as lines were delivered, stopping when necessary to help with enunciation or cadence. At the end of the second act, Desmond announced a seven-minute break, then headed to the tech booth to talk about lighting.

Bay noticed he seemed nervous about the tech crew being run by an intern. His normal production partner, Leo, another theater professor, was spending summer break in New York City at a Broadway intensive master class. Leo recommended a theater grad student from Madison to take his place.

As lights flashed on and off in different positions, Bay watched the techies at the booth. Desmond pointed at the script as intern Evan made notes, then flashed the light Desmond asked for. Bay noticed Evan’s body posture: alert, attentive, like a golden retriever eager to please. In contrast, Desmond alternated running a hand through the twists on top of his head, placing his hands on his hips, then rubbing the back of his neck before repeating the moves again.

“That looks intense.” Jen Yoo was sitting by Bay, a clean paint brush in one hand.

“Hey, Jen. Yes, I’ve never seen this side of Desmond. How about you?”

Jen shrugged. “I haven’t worked on a summer production in some time. The younger Desmond was laid-back. But some of us lose our patience as we age. Thankfully, I don’t have that problem.” She snickered.

Bay turned her full attention to Jen. “Why are you working on this production, anyway?”

“Two reasons. One: It fulfills my volunteer hours for the whole year. Two: It’s a show you wrote. I’m proud of you and want to see how it turns out.” Jen leaned her head over to meet Bay’s.

With break wrapping up, chatter from the stage echoed around the quiet outdoors. When a commotion ensued, Bay chalked it up to high energy from a new show, the honeymoon period. But then a loud thud sounded, someone began shrieking, and a cacophony of shouts and running feet ensued.

Bay, Jen, and Desmond ran to the stage, with the tech crew close behind. The adults vaulted onto the stage where the lead actor, Talon Hunt, lay crumpled in a twisted heap.

“Everybody back up,” Desmond shouted.

“He fell off the balcony,” one of the students called out.

“I didn’t mean to. We were goofing around, practicing a duel.” Jackson Lange knelt over Talon, his chest heaving, his face distraught.

Desmond, Jen, and Bay knelt beside Talon too, and Jackson stood up and looked away. Desmond checked Talon’s pulse, shook his head, listened for a heartbeat, and shook his head again. Bay called 911.

“Let’s straighten him a bit so I can do CPR.” Desmond motioned for Jen and Bay to get on either side of his legs and they gingerly turned him.

Desmond was still administering chest compressions and breaths when the emergency team arrived to take over. Thirty minutes later, the EMTs pronounced Talon dead.

***

Excerpt from Shake-speared in the Park by Joy Ann Ribar. Copyright 2025 by Joy Ann Ribar. Reproduced with permission from Joy Ann Ribar. All rights reserved.

 

 

Author Bio:

Joy Ann Ribar is an RV author, writing on the road wherever her husband and their Winnebago View wanders. Joy’s cocktail of careers includes news reporter, paralegal, English educator, and aquaponics greenhouse technician, all of which prove useful in penning mysteries. Her cozy Deep Lakes Mysteries, feature baker/vintner Frankie Champagne, who moonlights as an investigative reporter. Joy’s Bay Browning Mysteries blend edgy, traditional, and paranormal elements twisted around classical literary themes. Joy loves to bake, read, research wines, and explore nature. Her writing has received awards and recognition from WWA, PenCraft Book Awards, Book Fest, Reader’s Favorite, and Chanticleer Cozy and Not-So-Cozy awards.

Catch Up With Joy Ann Ribar:

JoyRibar.com
Joy's Substack
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads
BookBub - @ribarjoy
Instagram - @authorjoyribar
Facebook - @JoyRibarAuthor

 

 

Tour Participants:

Visit these other great hosts on this tour for more great reviews, interviews, guest posts, and opportunities to WIN in the giveaway!

Click here to view the Tour Schedule

 

 

Don't Miss Your Chance to Win! Enter Today!

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

Can't see the giveaway? Click Here!

 

 

Get More Great Reads at Partners In Crime Tours

 

The Medusa Murders - A Review

 Review

THE MEDUSA MURDERS by Joy Ann Ribar
The First Bay Browning Mystery 

 

It wasn't bad enough that Professor L. L. "Bay" Browning's ex-con sister unexpectedly shows up. Or that her "always hides from a problem" father says it's good that the sisters live together. But when a mix-up with her dry cleaning turns out to be an intentional switch involving her with a serial killer it's worse than not being prepared for a new semester. As an English professor and a potential next victim of the Medusa Killer, Bay begins to work with the police. Will Bay be able to discover her connection to the killer before becoming the killer's next target?

 

I really enjoyed my introduction to Bay Browning and her first mystery! Bay is not a sweet or soft protagonist. She's a bit brusque, not overtly friendly, and doesn't suffer fools gladly. She's whip smart, interesting, and genuinely cares for the well being of her students. Her sister, Cassandra, was starting to grow on me...until I read what she planned to do at work and did while she was in prison. To me, that's unconscionable. I love the concept of the Pig Squeal and really like Mandy. It was also fun seeing how Bay and Downing interacted. I'd love to see more of the Fabulous Fiona!

 

My favorite aspect of THE MEDUSA MURDERS was how mythology and art were combined. I appreciated the way in which Art History Chair and Bay's friend, Jennifer Yoo, helped by introducing several works of art and also discovering a major clue. She made me want to go down that same rabbit hole and search these paintings out, if only online.

 

The mystery was compelling. Why on earth was Bay targeted? It was fascinating to see the reasons slowly unraveled with an exciting culmination and confrontation as well.

 

Smart writing and a unique story captivated me from the get-go making THE MEDUSA MURDERS a captivating start to a new series.  

Deep Green Envy - An Interview & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Joy Ann Ribar to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Joy Ann writes the Deep Lakes Mystery series. Deep Green Envy is the third book in the series and was released last month.

Kathy: In addition to being a baker Frankie Champagne is also a vintner. I'm lucky to live in the middle of three distinct viticultural areas. I love New York Traminettes, which isn't surprising as Gewürztraminers are a favorite of mine, along with champagne (or sparkling wine). What's your favorite wine?

JAR: There are so many enjoyable wines on the market, but I love a velvety rich red blend that I can pair with a steak or lasagne. A juicy jammy one is Scarlet Fumé from the Wollersheim family in Wisconsin. As far as Wisconsin vintages from a single grape variety, the Sabrevois from Vines and Rushes is luscious. I can’t discriminate though, so I have to give a shout out to the LaCrescent white wine from Four Daughters vineyard in Minnesota, which is a perfect balance of sweet and acidic and never disappoints.

Kathy: Are you a baker as well? What's your favorite thing to make? Or eat?

JAR: I’ve been baking since I was about 8 years old, the direct result of me following my mother around the kitchen from the time I could walk. She’s an avid baker and passed along her knowledge and passion to me. Cookies are my favorite because of the variety and techniques involved, and of course, the tradition of making them for the holidays and giving away big platters full! I used to bake and sell decorated cakes for any number of occasions, which was rewarding and fun. Learning to make icing flowers and trims was the best part.

Kathy: In Deep Green Envy Frankie encounters some rare stones. I love crystals. Do you happen to collect or admire them yourself?

JAR:  I do love crystals and have a few hanging in my windows to catch the sun and make rainbows for my kitty to chase around! I’ve been a rock hunter and collector since I was a kid. There’s something delightful about treasure hunting through a pile of stones on the beach. Now my grandkids and I share the joy of discovering agates, sea glass and quartz crystals when we’re rock-hounding the lake shore.

Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

JAR: I grew up reading the Bobbsey Twins and Trixie Belden before graduating to more sophisticated mysteries. I love being able to travel to places away from home that most mysteries offer, and it’s exciting to look for clues throughout the book, examine possible suspects, and see if your conclusions yield the right solution. Cozies are particularly enticing because of their idyllic small town settings and characters who feel like friends.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

JAR: I write short stories with an aura of mystery, fantasy and science fiction. I also write non-fiction essays. Two of my short pieces are published in Creative Wisconsin Anthology of 2020 and 2021. 

 

Kathy: Tell us about your series.

JAR: The Deep Lakes Mystery Series features Frankie Champagne - baker, vintner and Bubble & Bake shop owner with her business partner/ best friend, Carmen Martinez. Frankie’s side line is a sleuthing regional reporter for Point Press, giving her the opportunity to stick her nose into crimes in the small tourist town of Deep Lakes, Wisconsin. Of course, her investigations curl the toes of her life-long pal Sheriff Alonzo Goodman, especially since she enlists the help of her romantic partner, Coroner Garrett Iverson. Each book in the series is set in a different season which allows me to focus on the natural beauty of Wisconsin in its four distinct seasons.

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

JAR: Well, choosing a favorite is like picking a favorite child. My main character, Frankie, is continuously evolving as she gains experience solving crimes while keeping two enterprises afloat. Fiercely independent, she realizes the importance of enlisting the help of her friends and beau throughout the trials and celebrations of everyday life. I love being able to surround Frankie with other characters that provide levity, humor and life lessons for her own personal growth, such as Carmen who is straightforward and helps Frankie stay grounded. Frankie’s mother and daughter make life complicated and her Aunt Cece and Carmen’s Tia Pepita provide comedy and wisdom at the same time.  

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

JAR: My inspiration for the series comes from the strong women in my family who have taught me the importance of resilience in the face of adversity, the importance of family and friendships, and the importance of laughter as a soothing remedy to most thorny situations. As a homegrown Wisconsinite, I am always inspired by the kind people in my area, the beauty of nature, and the quirky events and pastimes that claim the spotlight in our state (Lumberjack championships, Packer tailgate parties, Great Wisconsin Cheese Trail, Supper Clubs featuring fish frys and Old Fashioneds --- the state cocktail, and more).

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

JAR: I write for an audience and it’s rewarding to share my work with readers. I’m an English teacher and my heart thrives on discussions I have with my students about literature and writing. I want them to see that all kinds of writing matters and inspire them to find their writing voices, too.

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

JAR: Jane Austen, Toni Morrison, Annie Dillard, and Sandra Cisneros

Kathy: What are you currently reading?

JAR: I’ve just begun These Tangled Vines by Julianne MacLean set in the vineyards of Tuscany. 

 

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

JAR: Besides everything I’ve mentioned already, I’m an avid birder with a life list, and because I love traveling, the top spots on my bucket list include Big Bend National Park in Texas, which is home to scads of bird species, and Costa Rica to see multiple varieties of hummingbirds. I also love to do research on any topic I choose to write about in my books: especially wine production and grape cultivation. And, I love hiking.
 

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

JAR: butter, cinnamon, cooking wine, oat milk creamer 

 

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

JAR:  Yes and Yes. I will continue writing the Deep Lakes series as long as the story line is worthy. I have three more books outlined and have begun writing Deep Dire Harvest, the next book taking place in Autumn. I would like to write a new mystery series and am kicking ideas around my brain right now to come up with something inviting for readers. So if readers have ideas for setting, main character and 
situation, please feel free to send them to me.


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

JAR: The best part for me is being able to live in another world where I can partake in running a bakery and winery and pal around with my characters, listen in on their conversations, and think about how I can help them share their stories. 

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 Deep Green Envy (Deep Lakes Cozy Mystery Series) by Joy Ann Ribar

About Deep Green Envy

Deep Green Envy (Deep Lakes Cozy Mystery Series)
Cozy Mystery
Setting - Wisconsin 3rd in Series
Publisher: ‎ Ten16 Press (September 21, 2021)
Paperback: ‎ 344 pages Digital Print length: ‎ 226 pages

Summer in Deep Lakes sprouts a homegrown murder on the O'Connor farm. Frankie Champagne's hunt for clues lands her deep in sheep doo-doo, especially after rare stones surface in unexpected places. Crime-solving is no picnic for the baker/vintner as she hops from farm to field to bakery, trying to keep up with the tourist season and track a killer, too.

About Joy Ann Ribar

Joy Ann Ribar lives in central Wisconsin with her business partner-husband, John. She writes the Deep Lakes Mystery Series, starring baker/vinter and all-around spitfire, Frankie Champagne. Joy’s writing is inspired by Wisconsin’s four distinct seasons and local flavors, which she hopes to promote for all to enjoy.

Joy is a member of Sisters in Crime, Midwest Independent Booksellers, and Wisconsin Writers Association. She enjoys researching viticulture at area wineries, birding, hiking, and chatting with readers. Joy and her husband, John, someday plan to sell their house, buy an RV and travel around the U.S. spreading good cheer and hygge! Joy is a little proud to have two bestsellers with Orange Hat Publishing: Deep Dark Secrets (2019) and Deep Bitter Roots (2020), under the Ten16 Press imprint of Orange Hat.

Author Links

• • Website: https://joyribar.com/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoyRibarAuthor
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoyribar/

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