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.

A Deadly Combo - An Interview & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Karen A. Phillips to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Karen writes the Rocky Nelson Boxing Mystery series. A Deadly Combo is the first book in the series and was released last week.

Kathy: Rocky and her sister, Bridget, visit a vintage trailerfest in A Deadly Combo. When I think of trailers I always think of the movie The Long, Long Trailer with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Before writing this book, were you a vintage trailer fan?

KAP: I mention the movie The Long, Long Trailer toward the end of the book just prior to the exciting climax! I fell in love with vintage trailers after attending my first trailerfest at a winery. In fact, that is where I got the idea for A Deadly Combo. I thought of how much fun it was to go inside each trailer and talk to the owners about their work restoring the trailer to its former glory. And then it struck me, this would be a great place to find a dead body!


Kathy: Rocky loves boxing, and I'm a fan too. In fact, my dad took me out of grammar school one day when Sugar Ray Leonard came to town so we could see him train! Are you a boxing fan?

KAP: What a great experience for you. I became a fan of boxing after I decided to take boxing lessons to get in shape. It is a very difficult sport to learn. I have a renewed appreciation for those who do well at it. Did you know Mohammed Ali’s daughter, Laila, is a former professional boxer? She retired undefeated.


Kathy: The Rocky Nelson Mystery series has been described as cozy noir-two quite different genres. Why did you decide to fuse the two? Could it be described as a traditional mystery?

KAP: I started out writing A Deadly Combo as a cozy, but the story turned a bit dark. “Cozy noir” is a new term gaining popularity and I feel it fits. A Deadly Combo is a traditional mystery with cozy elements, such as an amateur sleuth, a small town setting, and the murder happens off of the page.


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

KAP: I like the simplicity of a cozy—if I can describe any mystery as simple? What I mean is, there are a small number of characters and they seem to know each other. The setting is a small town which feels new for the reader, yet familiar. One of my favorite cozy series is the Agatha Raisin mysteries by M.C Beaton.

Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

KAP: I enjoy writing poetry and young adult fiction, however I haven’t published anything in those genres yet.

Kathy: Tell us about your series.

KAP: A Deadly Combo is Book One in the Rocky Nelson Boxing mystery series. This is my first mystery series. I am working on Book Two now and hope to release it in the spring of 2024.
 

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

KAP: I love Rocky’s dad. He adds humor to the story and some say he steals every scene he’s in.

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

KAP: I have lost two brothers much too soon. I wanted readers who have lost a loved one to relate to Rocky and Bridget having lost their mother at a young age. I come from a dysfunctional family and I don’t believe there is such a thing as a normal family. My story is about family and how far one might go to protect the ones you love.

Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

KAP: It took me years to finish A Deadly Combo. I guess you can say I’m a slow learner. But seriously, it took me a long time to learn the craft and feel confident I had written the story to the best of my ability. Since Rocky’s dad is patterned after my own father, who turned 87 this year, I wanted the book to go out in the world so he could hold it in his hands and be proud. I honestly feel it is a fun story and readers will enjoy it.

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

KAP: M.C. Beaton, C.J. Box, Stephen King, and Agatha Christie. Doesn’t that sound like a fun group?!

Kathy: What are you currently reading?

KAP: Good question! I am searching for the next good read. I keep starting a book but haven’t found one that really engages me. I hope A Deadly Combo engages the reader. It is fast-paced, with the story taking place over seven days.
 

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

KAP: I take boxing lessons! I enjoy Plein Air painting – that’s a fancy term for painting outdoors. I have a degree in Applied Art & Design and love to create book covers.

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

KAP: You ask the best questions! I have cheese (usually Manchego), Fuji apples, Kale and grapefruit.

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

KAP: Oh, yes. Book Two should be out in the spring of 2024. The working title is “A Deadly Scheme."

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

KAP: Creating fun, interesting, characters and living vicariously through them. 

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A Deadly Combo by Karen A. Phillips

About A Deadly Combo

A Deadly Combo: A Rocky Nelson Boxing Mystery
Traditional/Cozy Blend 1st in Series
Setting - California
River Rock Press (March 1, 2023)
Number of Pages: 270

What do boxing and vintage trailers have in common? Rocky Nelson. 

Meet Raquel Nelson (AKA Rocky), a retired single woman with an attitude. In Rocky’s opinion, independent ruffians, relentless heat, wildfires, and unhealthy AQI are all part of living in the Sierra Foothills of California.

Sisters Rocky and Bridget are enjoying each other’s company at a vintage trailerfest until they stumble over a corpse. The dead guy is none other than the local trailer restorer and Bridget was overheard threatening to kill him. Mounting evidence leads police to focus on Bridget as a person of interest. Desperate to prove her sister innocent of murder, Rocky dons her own deerstalker cap and goes sleuthing. Rocky knows a little about the job requirements, having caught her sister’s last husband in an illicit affair. Detective Thompson is on the case and isn’t happy about Rocky poking around, and lets her know in no uncertain terms. But Rocky is tenacious if not stubborn. Combined with a 78-year-old father who insists on assisting, Rocky uses her courage and skills from boxing lessons to protect her family and keep from becoming the killer’s next victim.

This is the first book in The Rocky Nelson Boxing Mystery Series – a perfect series for lovers of small town mysteries with a cozy-noir feel featuring boxing and an amateur sleuth who will stop at nothing to save the lives of those she loves.

About Karen A. Phillips

Author Karen A. Phillips lives in Northern California and writes humorous, fun, action-packed mysteries. She has several short stories published in various anthologies. Her characters are engaging and fearless. “A Deadly Combo” is her first full-length novel. In real life, Karen takes boxing lessons but would hesitate if she had to punch anyone in the face. Let’s face it. Karen wouldn’t last one round in the ring.

Author Links: 

Website: https://karenaphillips.com/ 

Facebook: KarenAPhillips/Author 

Instagram: kannphillips 

Twittter: @phillips_writes  

Purchase Links -- Amazon - B&N - Kobo 

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Five Moves of Doom - A Review

 Review

FIVE MOVES OF DOOM by A. J. Devlin
The Third "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery 

PI and former wrestling champion "Hammerhead" Jed Ounstead is called in to the world of mixed martial arts to investigate the theft of a prized UFC Championship belt. His investigation leads him to a bad tempered bodybuilder, an old friend, baby goats, and a very dangerous man. Just when he thinks he has come to a satisfactory conclusion, things take an abrupt turn...and not for the better.

The third "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery has so many twists and turns you'd think you're in the midst of a wrestling match yourself! While there are plenty of laughs, the story soon becomes quite serious. Jed was overconfident, thinking he was all that. He wasn't ready to be taken down. He was. This is a tale of facing your own limitations and how you deal with losing. Will you fight your way out or give up? Ultimately you will change. And after the shocking ending, Jed will be forever changed.

FIVE MOVES OF DOOM is a series of mind games, with Jed facing his most dangerous opponent yet-his own mind. I loved the cerebral aspect of this book and how the person I thought was going to be the big baddie wasn't. Instead a new depraved character emerged. Lines are crossed. Fates are sealed.

Compelling, engrossing, thought provoking, yet still humorous, FIVE MOVES OF DOOM is a brilliant look at what happens when you reach rock bottom. Grab a banana milkshake and be prepared for the ride of a lifetime.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Five Moves of Doom by A. J. Devlin. This book is the third in the "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series and will release tomorrow!

PI and former wrestling champion "Hammerhead" Jed Ounstead is called in to the world of mixed martial arts to investigate the theft of a prized UFC Championship belt. His investigation leads him to a bad tempered bodybuilder, an old friend, baby goats, and a very dangerous man. Just when he thinks he has come to a satisfactory conclusion, things take an abrupt turn...and not for the better.

Five Moves of Doom - An Interview

I'm so happy to welcome A. J. Devlin back to Cozy Up With Kathy today. A. J. writes the "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series. FIVE MOVES OF DOOM is the third book in the series and will be released September 15, 2022. Be sure to check out my review which will go live on Sunday, September 18, 2022.

KATHY: In FIVE MOVES OF DOOM "Hammerhead" Jed gets involved with the Mixed Martial Arts community. Do you enjoy watching mixed martial arts? 

AJ: I do! I appreciate the different styles of combat for sure, especially when you have competitors who have different strengths and weaknesses, such as striking and takedowns. And as a wrestling fan I certainly enjoy the importance of grappling to the sport.


KATHY: Years ago I studied Tukong Moosul. Have you ever studied martial arts?

AJ: Tukong Moosul! That’s awesome. I saw a showcase years ago when I traveled to South Korea. I’m particularly intrigued by fighting styles or systems like that or Israeli Krav Maga that not only blend various styles but also reflect a country’s culture and heritage.

Yes, I have some experience in martial arts. I spent my teenage years freestyle wrestling in high school and summer camps as well as trying my hand at Judo. And when I was in university I studied Aikido.


KATHY: Jed also gets involved with yoga in his third outing? I have always wanted to do goat yoga, but haven't, although I did take some classes sans goats. Do you practice yoga?

AJ: Jed does encounter yoga enthusiasts during his investigation in FIVE MOVES OF DOOM. I got into hybrid yoga a few years back — mainly DDP Yoga, which was created by professional wrestling legend and WWE Hall Of Famer Diamond Dallas Page. Not to knock the spiritual side of the discipline, but it wasn’t really for me, which is why I appreciated the emphasis on the building of functional strength in DDP Yoga. But the discovery of hybrid yoga opened a doorway to other kinds I wasn’t even aware of, including goat yoga, which, I think, is really something else. It was definitely fun to mine for humour as Jed tends to have a way of being drawn into environments that are quirky and offbeat while working his cases.


KATHY: Was there a specific inspiration for this story?

AJ: Yes, for sure. After having Jed go up against some tough guy heavies in his debut in COBRA CLUTCH, and then having to switch gears to an antagonist who was less physically imposing and more cerebral in ROLLING THUNDER, I thought it would be interesting if he encountered forces that had both qualities. I also really wanted to take Jed — as a pro-wrestler PI who is used to being the biggest and toughest guy in the room — and strip that away, forcing him to rely more on his wits and mental toughness this time around.


KATHY: Are you able to share any future plans for "Hammerhead" Jed Ounstead?
 

AJ: I certainly have more adventures in mind for the character, but with a trilogy of stories under my belt it also feels like a good time to explore other ideas I have like a spin-off story or a standalone novel.

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?

AJ: Before FIVE MOVES OF DOOM I would have categorized myself as a strict plotter. But the challenges of pivoting to an all virtual promotion for ROLLING THUNDER and writing the latest book amidst other pandemic challenges definitely changed the routine I was used to. But it ended up being a great experience and I think having to make some adjustments on the fly in some ways brought the best out of me. I think it was also very helpful that many of the characters had become familiar over the past few years as opposed to crafting an all new set of dramatis personae.


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?

AJ: I do love the hustle! I think my favourite part of marketing my work is getting to do so again with returning characters, especially ones who were well received or readers seemed to enjoy. I believe for an ongoing crime series that the central mystery in each book — which is of course essential — serves as the vehicle for the narrative, but the best part is always catching up with the protagonist, as it's kind of like spending time with an old friend.

I don’t know if there’s a downside to marketing for me other than the fact that getting the opportunity to discuss my latest work reminds me of why I enjoy writing the likes of “Hammerhead” Jed and company, so as anxious as I may be to return to the page for the next adventure, some of that has to be put on hold in order to try and get the word out.

KATHY: Will you share any other upcoming books?

AJ: Yes, I’m looking forward to perhaps taking Jed away a bit from fringe sports and focusing more on the unique subcultures I feel with his pro-wrestling background and PI experience he is uniquely suited for in future novels. I also am very excited for Jed to get caught up in a mystery that requires him to travel from his home base of Vancouver, and am working on an idea that heavily features his cousin and sidekick Declan's past in his homeland of Ireland.

Thank you Kathy for having me back for another fun Q&A on COZY UP WITH KATHY!

 

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Blurb:

Hired by local mixed martial arts trainer Elijah Lennox to find a missing UFC Championship belt, pro-wrestler PI Hammerhead Jed must extract answers from the tight-knit MMA community. Still consuming his weight in banana milkshakes, Jed ventures into a world of jewel thieves, bodybuilders, eccentric yoga enthusiasts, and adorable baby goats. As he infiltrates an exclusive and unique no-holds-barred fight club, Jed might just find himself down for the count ...

Five Moves of Doom is a high-altitude and high-attitude entry in A.J. Devlin's award-winning mystery series, one that finds its hero pushed to his absolute limit, relying on his closest allies to survive, and making choices he never thought he'd have to make.

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Be sure to check out A. J. Devil's website for more information and to stay in touch with the author:  ajdevlin.com

Concession Stand Crimes - A Guest Post & Giveaway

I'm pleased to let Madeline Boucher take over Cozy Up With Kathy today. You can find Madeline on the pages of the Ballpark Mystery series by Nicole Asselin. Concession Stand Crimes is the second book in the series.

Hi friends! This is your friendly social media liaison for the Abington Armadillos, Madeline Boucher, here to talk to you about the exciting events we have at the ballpark coming up!

Oh, what’s that? You want to know about the deaths at the ballpark? I mean, yes. We did have that tragic death of that scout guy, Chris. I mean, it turned out to be a fallout between shady characters, so nothing to worry about. Yes, my brother was a suspect, but luckily we were able to clear his name. And when I say “we”, I mean, me and my family. We always stick together.

Now I’m trying to get attendance up at the ballpark, and part of that plan is to start doing theme nights. Our first big theme night is 80’s night! Who doesn’t love an 80’s theme party? I’ve been taking inspiration from other Minor League Teams and following the very fun Savannah Banana’s on social media to learn different ways to “jazz” up the ballpark. Plus, all this new fun stuff will hopefully make people forget about the death that had happened at the beginning of the season.

I’ve been working with the owner of the concession stands about getting more food added to the menus, and hopefully bringing in a different crowd. More health conscious options and updated craft beers. Which reminds me, I think I have an appointment with someone from the Redmond Brewery this week. But that can wait.I hope you and your family decide to come out to some games this season! The Boucher family would love to have you, and you get the chance to see our new star Mookie Martinez before he eventually moves back to the majors.

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 Concession Stand Crimes: The Ballpark Mysteries by Nicole Asselin

About Concession Stand Crimes 

Concession Stand Crimes: The Ballpark Mysteries
Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series
Setting - Abington, MA
Pandamoon Publishing (June 22, 2022)
Paperback: ‎ 190 pages

HOTDOG, CRACKERJACK, BEER, and MURDER. PLAY BALL!

MADELINE BOUCHER is still reeling from her first few weeks of working for her family’s Independent League Baseball Team, the Abington Armadillos. She found a dead body and survived a kidnapping before finally clearing her brother of a murder. She didn’t think anything could be as dramatic as that, but she was wrong.

Her parents have given her more responsibility in running ballpark events in the hopes that they could retire and leave the team in her hands. Her brother is moving on to the big leagues, so this is her time to shine. Her first task? Deal with a concession stand kerfuffle. Redmond Brewery heiress, Alaska Redmond, storms her way into the ballpark making demands.

The next day, the son of the concession’s manager finds Redmond’s body in one of the beer stands along the ballpark concourse. Again, Madeline finds herself immersed in an investigation. While the suspects start piling up, including a promising young player on the team, Madeline knows she must get involved. With the help of Davis, her new love interest and head of the security department, she delves deeper into the death of the heiress.

Trying to run team events, solve a murder, and have a normal life take their toll as Madeline comes to depend on those in her baseball-loving community, including Bronia, her old family friend who runs a garden center and helps her make sense of things. She even chances a psychic for advice while at a Salem Warlock’s away game. Will anyone help her untangle the mess of suspects including the victim’s family?

Can she clear the name of the Abington Armadillos and start focusing on the season?

 

About Nicole Asselin

Nicole Asselin spent her formative high school years in the middle of Pennsylvania but always identified with her New England roots. Nicole’s family is originally from Connecticut, and her Grandpa Asselin introduced her to the Red Sox nation where she has been a member for her whole life and her Grandma Asselin introduced her to the world of mystery novels. Now those two loves are combined into her new Ballpark Mystery series.

Nicole graduated from Curry College in Milton Mass with a degree in English/Creative Writing, minoring in Dance in 2004. She also attended George Mason University and received a Master’s in Arts Management. She worked in the Government sector for over ten years before transitioning to Healthcare. Now working just outside of Boston as a Technical Writer, she lives on the South Shore of Massachusetts with her three cats Julia, Jacques, and Madeline (no relation to the main character of her book).

• Author Links
  • Website - www.nicoleasselinwriter.com
  • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/705169159907300/
  • Twitter - https://twitter.com/nanazlyn
  • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nanazlyn/
  • TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@nicoleasselin38
  • GoodReads - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19339211.Nicole_Asselin

Purchase Links: Amazon - Nicole Asselin Writer  

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Rolling Thunder - A Review

Review

 

ROLLING THUNDER by A. J. Devlin

The Second "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery

As a former professional wrestler and new private investigator with one murder case behind him, Jed "Hammerhead" Ounstead has seen a lot. But nothing could have prepared him for the world of women's flat-track roller derby. An old wrestling acquaintance has entered the roller derby scene and calls on Jed when her team's coach goes missing. Jed will have to keep his wits and his wrestling moves sharp as he navigates the various venues of Vancouver in search of the missing man.

A. J. Devlin hooked me from his first sentence and never let me go. This second "Hammerhead" Jed mystery leads Jed to some interesting places and the discovery of a new art form that completely captivates Declan. It's Declan who brings the most outrageous situations to life, providing plenty of "oh no he didn't!?!" thoughts to readers. But it's not all grins and giggles, there are action packed fight scenes, romantic entanglements, and serious moments too.

Jed is growing as a person and as a character. His horizons are broadening, he takes his mistakes to heart and tries to learn from them, and he genuinely wants to help people. The general decency of the guy makes you root for him, both inside and outside of the ring.
 
ROLLING THUNDER is a top notch, laugh out loud, action packed adventure mystery. Filled with laughter inducing escapades there is enough heart to actually make you care about the characters...and crave a banana milkshake.

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If you missed it, be sure to check out my latest interview with author, A.J. Devlin.

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For more information check out www.ajdevlin.com

Purchase links:

Rolling Thunder on Amazon:  

https://www.amazon.com/Rolling-Thunder-Hammerhead-Jed-Mystery/dp/1988732867

 

Cobra Clutch Audiobook on Audible:

https://www.audible.com/pd/Cobra-Clutch-Audiobook/1774390043?qid=1589221911&sr=1-1&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=e81b7c27-6880-467a-b5a7-13cef5d729fe&pf_rd_r=H7FXYNWJ5374PQX2ABPT

Rolling Thunder - An Interview

I'm happy to welcome A. J. Devlin back to Cozy Up With Kathy. A. J. pens the "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series. ROLLING THUNDER is the second book in the series and will be released this Friday!

Kathy: ROLLING THUNDER features women's flat-track roller derby. I admit I've always been fascinated by the sport and if I was younger and in shape, I'd love to give it a try. Had you been interested in roller derby before this book?

AJD: It’s a heck of a sport! Roller derby had been on my radar long before I cooked up the “Hammerhead” Jed mystery-comedy series, and for some reason it stuck in my head. When I decided that the derby world might be a good setting for the sequel to COBRA CLUTCH, I went out and attended a lot of games, before lucking out and reconnecting with a high school classmate who was a star skater in Vancouver for years and was generous enough to read my manuscript and offer feedback.


Kathy: Why did you decide to feature roller derby in your second "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery?

AJD: I didn’t give it much thought at the time but after I had Jed return to the world of independent professional wrestling during his debut in COBRA CLUTCH, I started thinking about what kind of fringe sport or unique subculture he could be drawn into for book two. It worked out that in the first book there was a strong, empowered, supporting female character who had become disillusioned with the professional wrestling biz, and it seemed to make sense that she might leave that world behind but also replace her passion for pro wrestling with roller derby as there are a lot of similarities.

Kathy: Jed and Declan wind up in a very unusual club as part of the investigation. Do you care to share any of your research about such places?

AJD: They do indeed! And Declan literally has the time of his life during that visit. I first learned of such clubs during a ride along on the Downtown Eastside in Vancouver while doing research for COBRA CLUTCH. I never went into such an establishment myself, but let’s just say that chats with cops, Google searches, and one’s imagination can help make for some distinctive visuals!


Kathy: Declan has started a unique art collection. I must ask. Is it really a thing? How on earth did you discover it? Or come up with it, if it doesn't exist?

AJD: Oh, that is 100% legit and real. I came across it during my research for the unusual nightclub that “Hammerhead” Jed and Declan visit in the novel and such artistry seemed like a perfect fit for this book, especially since Declan is such a rascal and you know he’s the kind of guy who would become obsessed with it. I truly think it’s one of those things in life that you just can’t make up. I mean, there’s no way ever I would have ever conceived of it myself. However, if one reads ROLLING THUNDER, and were so inclined, there are in fact some videos online one could watch in order to see how such “special” art is made.


Kathy: I love Napoleon. Have you ever been to a dachshund race?

AJD: Sadly, no! But I try my best to keep an ear to the ground for all things quirky and offbeat in Vancouver, as I think doing so is intrinsic to the mystery-comedy series I’m trying to grow. As a result, I’m always on the lookout for all things local and unusual. Napoleon and his dachshund racing is totally an actual annual event — let’s just say that the most outrageous parts of the book are real life events that I did not make up!


Kathy: Was there a specific inspiration for this story?

AJD: I’d say the main inspiration was that after having “Hammerhead” Jed go toe-to-toe with some physically imposing heavies in COBRA CLUTCH, I wanted to switch gears and come up with a different or perhaps more cerebral antagonist for ROLLING THUNDER. And, of course, the player names in women’s flat-track roller derby are incredible, I dare say more entertaining than professional wrestling monikers.


Kathy: Are you able to share any future plans for "Hammerhead" Jed Ounstead?

AJD: Of course! I’m almost halfway through “Hammerhead” Jed’s third adventure and in the story he’s hired for a job that brings him into the world of local Mixed Martial Arts. Being an ex-pro-wrestler, Jed is very much defined by his physicality, so I thought it might be interesting to have him work a case where for the first time he might not be the toughest guy in the room. If you take away Jed’s ability to be (or at least for him to think he is) the “Big Dog,” then who is he without that advantage?


Kathy: Will you share any other upcoming books?

AJD: Always! At the moment I’m focused on finishing book 3 in the series and am very excited to get cracking on book 4. I do have some ideas for some shared universe prequels and spinoffs, but for now my priority is establishing “Hammerhead” Jed as a hard-headed sleuth who hopefully will be around for awhile!

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Be sure to come back to the blog this Friday, May 15, 2020. Not only is it release day for ROLLING THUNDER, but I'll also be sharing my review.

Currently Reading...

I just started reading Rolling Thunder by A. J. Devlin. This book is the second in the "Hammerhead" Jed Mystery series and will be released May 15, 2020.

As a former professional wrestler and new private investigator with one murder case behind him, Jed "Hammerhead" Ounstead has seen a lot. But nothing could have prepared him for the world of women's flat-track roller derby. An old wrestling acquaintance has entered the roller derby scene and calls on Jed when her team's coach goes missing. Jed will have to keep his wits and his wrestling moves sharp as he navigates the various venues of Vancouver in search of the missing man.

Murder at First Pitch - An Interview & Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Nicole Asselin to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Nicole writes the Ball Park Mystery series. Murder at First Pitch is the first book in the series and was released earlier this year.

Kathy: In Murder at First Pitch Madeline Boucher has joined the family baseball business as the new “Social Media Director” for the team. Have you ever wanted to work in Baseball?

NA: Of course! My dream is to work in some capacity with the Red Sox. I played tee-ball as a youngster, but that was as close as I ever got to the sport. I’m not super athletic, I just like sports. Writing about baseball helps with my passion that way, and the only injury I can sustain is a papercut. So, win win!


Kathy: Madeline grew up loving the Boston Red Sox. Do you love baseball? Do you have a favorite team?

NA: Well, I’m obsessed with the Red Sox. My Grandfather indoctrinated me and my brother on trips to Connecticut in the summers when we were kids. My parents were both raised Sox fans, so it only follows that we would be too. And of course, being a Red Sox fan the last few years (since 2004) has been pretty great. So we’ve been spoiled after a 86 year drought!


Kathy: Did you ever play baseball or softball?

NA: Just a little tee-ball/little league in my youth. When my dad was stationed in California, my brother and I played on the same team which just so happened to be named the Red Sox. We each had teenage mutant ninja turtle gloves. His was Michelangelo, mine was Raphael. That’s all I remember about my baseball career. The type of glove I had.


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

NA: My Grandma was always reading mysteries of some sort. When I was young, my mystery gateway was the adventures of Nancy Drew. I wanted to be her! There was nothing cooler than a woman who could solve crimes with her friends. I found myself drawn to cozy mysteries since they usually had a character/amateur sleuth that I could identify with. A normal person solving mysteries! Plus, not too scary, not too bloody. Those aren’t my kind of books, so cozies fit me perfectly.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

NA: At the moment cozy is my jam. I do have a couple of fantasy WIP, but no where near as complete as my mystery work. Back in my youth, I had a fantastic YA that I had handwritten, but it got lost in the Navy move between Florida and Pennsylvania. *sad trombone* noise.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

NA: The Ballpark Mystery series is set in the town of Abington, MA (a real town, but not a real baseball team). Owned by the Boucher family, the Abington Armadillos is an unaffiliated Independent Baseball League team and Madeline Boucher returns to the family business. When she returns, she stumbles across a dead body and realizes she needs to figure out what happened in order to save her family and the team.


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

NA: Madeline is my favorite. Not only is she my spunky main character, she’s loosely based on myself. Granted, I don’t work for a baseball team, and there is no baseball team in my town, but her personality mirrors mine. My favorite secondary character is Eliza. She is also loosely based on someone I know, Lizy. Lizy was receptionist at a company I worked for. She was brash, sassy, and took no guff from anyone, but she was also super nice and a great friend. Just as I see Eliza.


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

NA: My love for baseball and my love for my Grandpa Asselin. He was my baseball guy, and he loved to talk about those banana-heads on the Red Sox. (This was before they won the World Series in 2004). Initially conceived as a ballpark mystery set in Fenway Park, but I changed that after thinking the Red Sox might not love it if I murdered someone there. So I made up a team! And get to live a little wish fulfillment about owning a team.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

NA: Well, I knew there was a market for a baseball focus mystery, and I knew that mine could fill that hole. Here in New England especially, there are a ton of die hard baseball fans, and I felt that was an untapped resource in mystery. There are plenty of crafters, which is great for people who identify with that. As much as love those mysteries, I wanted to write something and publish something that spoke more closely to my interests. Of course, I didn’t know the Red Sox weren’t going to make the playoffs this year, so my baseball season is over. I hope people want to read my book to take their minds off the post season!


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

NA: Jane Austen, for sure. Mark Twain, because I want to learn why he hated Jane Austen so much. (I learned that tidbit at the Mark Twain house in Hartford, CT and I love drama). Agatha Christie as founding mother of mystery. And….hmmm…..maybe Shakespeare. I think he’d be fun to have around. His comedies always make me laugh.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

NA: “Women of the Dunes” by Sarah Maines. I just started it today actually, and I’m obsessed. I loved her “Between the Tides” book and this is the perfect accompaniment. I’m also reading “Fray” which is the fantasy sequel to “Torn”. It follows a magical seamstress and the process of reform in her kingdom.


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

NA: So reading is the biggest thing I do in my free time. I have over 500 books to read in my house, and I still buy more. Hobby or obsession? Why not both! I also love ballet and try to get into Boston as much as possible to see the Boston Ballet. I danced for 20+ years and it’s always been a dream of mine to get back into it.


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

NA: Penne Pasta, Unsalted Saltines, Shredded sharp cheddar cheese, Pepperidge Farms Cinnamon bread.


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

NA: I’m in the midst of writing book two of the Ballpark Mysteries, tentatively titled “Concession Stand Crimes”. I’m excited to be diving into more stories with this crew!

I also completed a short story about a ballet festival and murder of course. I hope to expand on that in the future for another series.

I also have a WIP about a girl who is granted access to a Fairy Tale library. That one is the project that I would most like to finish outside of my mystery life.


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

NA: Meeting readers and other authors. It’s nice to find people who enjoy the things I do, and love to talk about them. When I attended Malice Domestic in Bethesda, MD as a reader a few years ago, everyone was so welcoming, and I really got a sense that readers are there to support one another. Now that I have my own book out, the connections just become that much stronger!


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Murder at First Pitch: Ball Park Mysteries by Nicole Asselin

About Murder at First Pitch

Murder at First Pitch: Ball Park Mysteries  

Cozy Mystery 1st in Series  

Pandamoon Publishing (September 4, 2019) 

Paperback: 188 pages 

32-year-old Madeline Boucher’s Grandfather instilled a love in the Boston Red Sox into her from an early age and increased that love by purchasing a local Independent League Baseball team, the Abington Armadillos.

After losing her corporate job in Boston, Madeline realizes her best option is to join the family baseball business. As the new “Social Media Director” for the team, Madeline attends her first business function and witnesses an argument between her brother Ben, and a strange man.

A few days later when walking the ballpark during her early morning hours, she finds the body of a man beaten to death with a baseball bat in the Visitor’s Dugout. It was the man her brother was arguing with at the party. Madeline is concerned that her brother would be considered a suspect. Through the local Detectives and Davis - the head of security for the ballpark she learns the victim is Christopher Dailey, a local baseball scout and prior felon.

When her brother is arrested and taken to the police station, she realizes she needs to figure out who the real culprit is, so her brother doesn’t take the fall for something she knows he didn’t do.

About Nicole Asselin

Nicole Asselin grew up a Navy Brat, and spent her formative high school years in the middle of Pennsylvania but always identified with her New England roots. Nicole's family is originally from Connecticut, and her Grandpa Asselin introduced her into the Red Sox nation where she has been a member for her whole life and her Grandma Asselin introduced her to the world of mystery novels.

Nicole graduated from Curry College in Milton Mass with a degree in English/Creative Writing, minoring in Dance in 2004. She also attended George Mason University and received a Master's in Arts Management... Now working just outside of Boston as a Technical Writer, she lives on the South Shore of Massachusetts with her three cats Julia, Jacques, and Madeline (no relation to the main character of her book).

Nicole is a current member of Sisters in Crime (National and New England) and the Mystery Writers of America. She sits on the Board of Directors for the NE branches of both groups as Social Media Liaison.

Author Links:
Website - https://Nicoleasselinwriter.com  
Twitter - @nanazlyn  
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nasselin  
Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19339211.Nicole_Asselin
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nanazlyn/  

Purchase Link - Amazon

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