A Poisonous Pour - A Spotlight

Today I'd like to shine a spotlight on a recent release. A Poisonous Pour by Maddie Day is the third book in the Cece Barton Mystery series and was released this week!

 

Blurb:

It’s Memorial Day weekend and Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley is buzzing with activity. For Cece, business at Vino y Vida is going great, as is her romance with new beau, Benjamin. Meanwhile, Cece’s neighbor, Richard Flora, is stirring up controversy with his newest article, an exposé of Regan Greene, power-hungry director of a valley district organization. Also in the mix is the town’s big classic car show, paired with wine tastings . . .

At the show, Cece spots Regan, who is displaying her restored green ’72 Thunderbird convertible. As Cece pours tastes, she witnesses several heated discussions with Regan—including an argument with wine afficionado and new Colinas hardware store owner Greg Jardis. Otherwise, all goes smoothly—until Sunday brings shocking news. Regan has been murdered . . .

Rumors fly that Richard may have orchestrated the homicide—or even committed it. But Cece knows that’s absurd. And others in Cece’s orbit seem to have discomfiting connections to Regan, from Cece’s employee, Dane, to her winemaking teacher’s sister, Yolanda, to Colinas Mayor Guittierez. And after Yolanda visits the wine bar, Benjamin says he recognizes her from a road race.

Determined to clear Richard’s name, and failing to extract any clues from detectives, Cece once again enlists her twin, Allie, as her partner-in-sleuthing. But they’ll have to act quickly, before the trail goes
sour . . .

Wine & Whispers - A Review

Review

WINE & WHISPERS by Daisy Landish
The First Sophie Brooks Mystery 

Sophie Brooks has come to Sonoma, California for a fresh start. Leaving the fast paced Oregon restaurant world and her lying ex behind she's staying in a guesthouse next to the Cartwright Vineyard. Planning to write a farm to table blog while working on her book, Sophie soon discovers the quiet town is not as peaceful as it first appeared. There's more than meets the eye including manipulation, bribery, and threats stemming from a bitter feud between rival wineries. Despite being warned away Sophie is determined to uncover the secrets of Sonoma.  

WINE & WHISPERS is a very confusing book. While the premise is good there are serious problems. Characters pop out of nowhere and it's written as if they've been in the book all along. There's no sign of law enforcement until practically the end and then it's as if Sophie has had lots of dealings with them. The worst was when there was a sentence saying that soon a main character would be dead. Next thing we know he is dead-but absolutely no mention of how he died. Was it a natural death? An accident? Murder? No idea-there's not even a funeral. Then near the end of the book they state there was a funeral. Then there's the repetition. Near identical scenes happen multiple times. 

Sophie is a food writer, although Oliver keeps referring to her as a detective (and just who is Oliver?), and the mystery has to do with a winery, but there's really no talk of food...or wine making for that matter so I really wouldn't classify this as a culinary mystery. 

With some heavy editing WINE & WHISPERS could turn into a fine mystery, but as it is I was left more befuddled than satisfied.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Wine and Whispers by Daisy Landish. This book is the first in the Sophie Brooks Mystery series and will be released later this week.

Sophie Brooks has come to Sonoma, California for a fresh start. Leaving the fast paced Oregon restaurant world and her lying ex behind she's staying in a guesthouse next to the Cartwright Vineyard. Planning to write a farm to table blog while working on her book, Sophie soon discovers the quiet town is not as peaceful as it first appeared. There's more than meets the eye including manipulation, bribery, and threats stemming from a bitter feud between rival wineries. Despite being warned away Sophie is determined to uncover the secrets of Sonoma.

Murder Uncorked - A Review

 

MURDER UNCORKED by Maddie Day
The First Cece Barton Mystery

 

Manager of the wine bar, Vino y Vida, widow Cece Barton is getting used to living in the small town of Colinas, California. Living close to her twin sister is just one of the perks. After hearing an argument at the bar, she soon learns that one of the men has been murdered. The same man with whom she's had unpleasant business dealings. When the brusque detective starts implying Cece could be a suspect and when Cece realizes that the good looking man staying at her sister's B&B could be the killer she decides to look into things herself. After all, it wouldn't be the first time.

 

While MURDER UNCORKED is the first book in the series there are several references to Cece being involved with solving a murder. It turns out there is a prequel in the anthology CHRISTMAS MITTENS MURDER. I wish I would have read this short story that introduces Cece first. Although MURDER UNCORKED certainly works fine without knowing the introductory details, since there were several references to it, I would have liked to have read it first.

 

I like the relationship between Cece and her twin, Allie. I also appreciate her dealings with her nephews and the fact that her relationship with her daughter is not the best. One of my favorite relationships though is between Cece and the VOM, Very Old Man, her neighbor Richard. It was also nice seeing a variety of ethnicities represented. The mystery was well plotted with nice diversions. Cece is an intelligent protagonist and I like how she handles herself.

 

MURDER UNCORKED is a full bodied mystery with a host of interesting characters in a unique setting. I look forward to visiting this charming town again!

Currently Reading...

I just finished reading Murder Uncorked by Maddie Day. This book is the first in the Cece Barton Mystery series and will be released next week.

Manager of the wine bar, Vino y Vida, widow Cece Barton is getting used to living in the small town of Colinas, California. Living close to her twin sister is just one of the perks. After hearing an argument at the bar, she soon learns that one of the men has been murdered. The same man with whom she's had unpleasant business dealings. When the brusque detective starts implying Cece could be a suspect and when Cece realizes that the good looking man staying at her sister's B&B could be the killer she decides to look into things herself. After all, it wouldn't be the first time.

Murder in the Wine Country - An Interview

I'm happy to welcome Janet Finsilver back to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Janet writes the Kelly Jackson Mystery series. Murder in the Wine Country is the sixth book in the series and was released last month.

Kathy: In Murder in the Wine Country Kelly Jackson is participating in an event involving wine tastings and a culinary competition. I would love to attend such an event. Have you been to something similar?

JF: Yes, I have. My books, which are set in the fictional town of Redwood Cove, all have festivals or events in them based on real ones that I’ve attended in northern California. I REALLY enjoy the food and wine research I do for the series! In Murder in the Wine Country I used ideas from Sostenuto: A Celebration of Sustainability as well as the Lexus Grand Tasting.

Sostenuto is a fundraiser for the Mendocino Music Festival. Five food areas are set up in the gardens of a private home along with wine tasting stations. The Grand Tasting featured chefs from all over the country with very creative food offerings. Local wineries participated as well.


Kathy: I'm lucky in that I live in the center of three distinct viticultural areas and have lots of local wines to love. Are you a wine drinker? Do you have a favorite type of wine?

JF: I also live near wine country. Napa, Sonoma, and Livermore are just a short drive away. When I drink red wine, I like a merlot. Sauvignon blanc is my choice when it comes to white wine.


Kathy: For the competition here professional chefs will forage for wild edible greens. I've always been interested, but afraid I'd pick the wrong thing...with possible deadly results. Have you ever foraged for food?

JF: No, I haven’t. I enjoyed the research I did and was surprised to find out how many varieties of wild edible plants there are. While preparing to write Murder at the Mushroom Festival, I attended several classes about identifying and picking mushrooms. After what I learned, I decided I wasn’t going to be foraging for wild mushrooms. That particular season I learned over a hundred people had died in Mendocino County from eating poisonous mushrooms.


Kathy: The Silver Sentinels join the Succulent Saviors to thwart the poaching operation here. Why do you think senior sleuths are important to stories?

JF: Seniors can add a different perspective to a story based on their many years of experience and the events that have taken place during their lives. In addition, my Silver Sentinels have lived in Redwood Cove for a long time. They have many connections as well as being very knowledgeable about the area.


Kathy: Was there a specific inspiration for this story?

JF: There wasn’t one specific inspiration. I’m always on the lookout for unusual and interesting ideas to weave into my mysteries. There was a front-page story in our local newspaper about the massive amount of plant poaching happening on the coast. My town of Redwood Cove is based on Mendocino, California. That’s where they made the first big find regarding the plant thefts. I’d never heard about plant poaching before and decided that would go in Murder in the Wine Country.

At the Lexus Grand Tasting, I spoke with a chef who was excited about the plant foraging she was going to do when the event was over. She had never hunted for wild edibles in California before and had signed up for a class. I thought it would be fun for the chefs in my book to go hunting as well.

There’s a wine merchant who teaches Kelly Jackson, my main character, about some of the finer points of wine tasting. She manages Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast in the wine country and wants to learn more so she can “talk wine” with interested guests. A winetasting class was offered near where I live, and I decided to take it. It was really fascinating. The gentleman teaching it was extremely knowledgeable. He also was a retired police officer, so I had a chance to ask some questions about things other than wine!


Kathy: Are you able to share any future plans for Kelly?

JF: The relationship between Kelly and Scott will continue to evolve slowly. She might convince him to go horseback riding with her. I’m considering having her parents come for a visit. If they do, they’ll bring Kelly’s buckskin horse, Lucy.


Kathy: Will you share any other upcoming books?

JF: I’m happy to share some thoughts I have. A stable near Mendocino used to offer horseback rides with overnight stays at different inns. Kelly and the owner of Redwood Cove Stable talked about doing something like that in a previous book.

One event I attended and haven’t incorporated into my books yet is the Mendocino Music Festival. Groups from all over the world attend. There’s a massive white tent that is set up on the headlands in Mendocino to accommodate large musical performances. There are many small groups playing throughout the town at various locations. It attracts a wide variety of people in terms of performers and attendees.

A few years back, I attended the Fourth of July parade in Mendocino. One local said to me that it attracts many of the people living in the hills. For some, it is the one time they come to town and mingle with the townspeople. The parade itself had some unusual floats with people artistically displaying their different beliefs and opinions.

These are just some of my ideas. We’ll see which ones make it into my future books!

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Murder in the Wine Country (A Kelly Jackson Mystery) by Janet Finsilver

About Murder in the Wine Country

Murder in the Wine Country (A Kelly Jackson Mystery) 

Cozy Mystery 6th in Series  

Publisher: Lyrical Underground (April 28, 2020)  

Paperback: 178 pages 

Weeding out killers wasn’t part of the job description . . .

Kelly Jackson, manager of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast, is excited to participate in an event to raise awareness for the plight of struggling veterans in their Northern California coastal community. Local wineries are sponsoring tastings, and to prepare for a culinary competition, professional chefs will forage for wild edible greens. Kelly plans to come along, despite a warning to beware of poachers, who have been stealing the highly valued succulent Dudleya farinosa. The senior sleuths who call themselves the Silver Sentinels join forces with environmental activists known as the Succulent Saviors to thwart the poaching operation. When a consultant for the sale of a local winery is murdered, the poachers are suspected—but so is a wine merchant, Kelly's friend Phil. As Kelly and the Silver Sentinels attempt to root out the real killer, what she digs up might just put her permanently underground . . .

Janet Finsilver is the USA TODAY best-selling author of the Kelly Jackson mystery series. She worked in education for many years as a teacher, a program administrator, and a workshop presenter. Janet majored in English and earned a Master’s Degree in Education. She loves animals and has two dogs—Kylie and Ellie. Janet has ridden western style since she was a child and was a member of the National Ski Patrol. One of the highlights of her life was touching whales in the San Ignacio Lagoon. MURDER AT REDWOOD COVE, her debut mystery, was released on October 13, 2015. Five books followed with her most recent release on April 28, 2020, of book six, MURDER IN THE WINE COUNTRY.

Janet Finsilver and her husband reside in the San Francisco Bay Area. She enjoys cooking, and a recent attempt to reduce the number of cookbooks in the cupboard wasn’t very successful. She’s an avid reader—of course!

Please feel free to visit and/or contact me on my author Facebook page and my website. https://www.facebook.com/janetfinsilverauthor/ http://janetfinsilver.com/

Author Links:
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/janetfinsilverauthor/?fref=ts  
Twitter – https://twitter.com/JanetFinsilver  
Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/janetfinsilver/  
Web – http://janetfinsilver.com/  

Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N –

Friends and Foes - An Interview & Review

I'm happy to welcome Laina Turner to Cozy Up With Kathy today. Laina writes the Read Wine Bookstore Cozy Mystery series. FRIENDS AND FOES is the prequel to the series.

Kathy: In FRIENDS AND FOES best friends Trixie, Sally, and Cora open up a combination bookstore, coffee shop, wine bar. Of the three, which section would be your favorite?

LT: That's such a hard one to answer. I would probably have to say the coffee shop. I love the smell and taste. It makes me feel warm and cozy.


Kathy: I'm lucky enough to live in the midst of three distinct viticultural regions so I mainly drink these NY state wines. I love the huge variety of Rieslings, but my favorite wine is Gewürztraminer. Do you have a favorite wine?

LT: I have more than one. Prosecco would hands down be my favorite, then Sauvignon Blanc. I'm not a wine snob so the cheaper, the better. I did recently take a trip to Portugal and had the best white wine I've ever tasted. I'd go back to buy more.


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

LT: I'm an avid reader across multiple genres. When I started writing I didn't feel I was equipped to write the more hard-core thrillers; my imagination just didn't lean that way. I wanted to write something lighthearted, fun, and for a broad audience, but I also wanted to solve crimes. Cozy was perfect for me to write, and I already loved reading it, so it was a winner.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

LT: I also write romance, more sweet/clean, than steamy. I have one short story out now as a teaser, but a series will launch in December. I tried writing this genre when I started then I killed someone, and it turned into a cozy.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.

LT: The Presley Thurman Cozy Series is nearest and dearest to my heart because it was my first. It's not a typical cozy as the first 13 books are in different settings (she travels) and cozies are usually in small towns. She is the character most like me which is why she's my favorite.

The Read Wine Bookstore Cozy Series I started because if I had unlimited funds, I'd love to open that type of store someday. Just without the murder.

Spencer University Cozy Series came about because, in real life, I'm a college professor. At a previous job, there was a colleague who wasn't well-liked. Book 1 was written loosely based on him, but if he ever turns up dead, I swear it wasn't me.

My new romance series, Moonshire Bay, is geared toward women over 50 entering the next stage in life and finding love.


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

LT: It would have to be Presley Thurman, the MC in The Presley Thurman Cozy Series. She was my first, and I never get tired of her.


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

LT: I started writing because my mother had always had the dream of being a writer, and it wasn't a dream that she realized. I'd also wanted to be an author from childhood, and one day decided I needed to stop dreaming and do it.

When it comes to each book I write, I tell all my friends and family that none of them are safe. Little things people do and say will stick with me, and I'll embellish and think of a storyline. Then change the details to protect the innocent.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

LT: Ten years ago, when Amazon made it a possibility for us indie authors, I felt it was finally my chance to make my writing dream come true. Honestly, I figured I'd write one and then be able to say I did it and move on, but my first sale in September 2009 of a whopping .63 cents got me excited to stay the course and here I still am.


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

LT: Agatha Christie, hands down. That woman is fascinating both as an author and person.

Dr. Suess because his work has stood the test of time and every adult can remember at least one or two lines from a book of his they read as a child.

Julie Campbell Tatum, who created the Trixie Belden and Ginny Gordon series. These books were passed down to me from my mother and, along with Nancy Drew, sparked my love for mysteries.

Daniel Keyes, who wrote my favorite book of all time, FLOWERS FOR ALGERNON.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

LT: I just grabbed the new serial by Stephanie Bond. Love her. I also have in my Kindle queue books by Carolyn Aspenson, Dylan Crush, Ava Mallory, and Danielle Steele.


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

LT: I try and walk daily with my dog, Duke. I usually dictate while I walk, so it's a win-win. I also enjoy yoga. I travel a lot and love Europe, but I enjoy coming home and sitting on the couch with my coffee and reality tv. A guilty pleasure.


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

LT: Coffee, club soda, pretzels, and popcorn. Did I mention coffee?


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

LT: I've committed to making it through the alphabet with my Presley series. I have 12 more books to go, and two will be out this year; Keys & Kidnappers and Icicles & Icepicks.

My new romance series will release in December, The Moonshire Bay Series, and next year I will add at least one book to each. I love my series and my characters. I would miss them if I didn't write.


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

Wearing yoga pants every day. Seriously though. I love the flexibility of having a career I can do anywhere, and I love being able to make things up all day that entertains people. When someone writes and tells me they loved a book, it makes all the hard work worth it.

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Review

FRIENDS AND FOES by Laina Turner

A Prequel to the Read Wine Bookstore Cozy Mystery Series

Trixie has always been the practical one, but with library layoffs on the horizon Sally's idea of opening their dream shop is very tempting. As Sally, along with their third best friend, Cora, start looking at logistics Trixie decides to see what her banker thinks of her finances. The path to their dream is not easy when Trixie discovers an issue with her retirement savings. Not only that, the trio soon find themselves victims of sabotage. Sally is quick to blame her ex-husband's new girlfriend, but could someone else have it in for them?

FRIENDS AND FOES is a very quick read that shows how the Read Wine Bookstore came to be. Trixie, Sally, and Cora are all likeable women, who, though flawed, are working to make their lives better. All three are intelligent, if sometimes blinded by their own preconceived notions, and work together capitalizing on each other's strengths, showing ingenuity and fortitude.

The villain had a solid motive, so I was a bit disappointed when the author added a stereotypical easy reason for the behavior. While there was a definite climax and conclusion, readers are also left with a cliff hanger.

Books, wine, coffee, and determined women are the heart of FRIENDS AND FOES, a lightening fast, enjoyable read.

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Author Links:

Website	https://www.lainaturner.com/
Facebook	https://www.facebook.com/LainaTurner/
Twitter	https://twitter.com/laina_turner
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/lainaturner/
Pinterest	https://www.pinterest.com/lainaturner/
Gooreads	https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4053626.Laina_Turner
Bookbub	https://www.bookbub.com/profile/laina-turner
Amazon page	http://ow.ly/6sqY30mw9wI

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2nLnkaA

Pairing a Deception - Review

Review

PAIRING A DECEPTION by Nadine Nettmann

The Third Sommelier Mystery

Katie Stillwell and Detective Dean have finally coordinated their schedules and plan to enjoy their first weekend away as a couple at the Harvest Days Wine and Food Festival in Santa Barbara. A romantic wine filled getaway turns murderous when the pair discover the dead body of a woman lying against the door of Master Sommelier Hudson Wiley; the same woman who was desperate to talk with him. Could he have killed her? Although it's not Dean's jurisdiction he's certain to have an opinion, and Katie is sure to ask some questions. Who killed Jocelyn Rivers? And if the Master Sommelier is guilty, who will proctor Katie's Exam?

I find that I like the characters in the Sommelier Mysteries more and more as the series progresses. Although filled with self doubt, Katie Stillwell is nonetheless a strong woman. Determined to do what she does best, Katie sticks to her guns and doesn't let anybody stop her! Detective Dean is an amazing romantic counterpart. Dean is supportive, encouraging, and thoughtful. He listens and remembers the little things.

One of my favorite bits of the series is the wine pairing given at the start of each chapter. I love and appreciate the wine knowledge shared. The love of wine is not only evident in Katie Stillwell, but it flows from the author, Nadine Nettmann, herself. Her joy and enthusiasm for the fruit of the vine is evident in every page, and it doesn't detract from the mystery, but rather enriches it.

PAIRING A DECEPTION is another gold medal winner from Nadine Nettmann. Great characters in a wonderful setting bring an intriguing and enjoyable mystery to life.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Pairing a Deception by Nadine Nettmann. This book is the third in the Sommelier Mystery series and will be released May 8th.

Katie Stillwell and Detective Dean have finally coordinated their schedules and plan to enjoy their first weekend away as a couple at the Harvest Days Wine and Food Festival in Santa Barbara. A romantic wine filled getaway turns murderous when the pair discover the dead body of a woman lying against the door of Master Sommelier Hudson Wiley; the same woman who was desperate to talk with him. Could he have killed her? Although it's not Dean's jurisdiction he's certain to have an opinion, and Katie is sure to ask some questions. Who killed Jocelyn Rivers? And if the Master Sommelier is guilty, who will proctor Katie's Exam?

Uncorking a Lie - Review & Giveaway

Review

UNCORKING A LIE by Nadine Nettmann

The Second Sommelier Mystery

Paul Rafferty has finally found the bottle he's been searching for, the 1975 Chateau Clair Bleu, and is celebrating with a special dinner with friends, including sommelier Katie Stillwell. But when Katie opens the wine, she immediately notices something wrong. The $19,000 bottle of wine is a counterfeit! Cooper, the only other person aware of the fraud dies that night in an apparent accident, but Katie isn't so sure his death was accidental. Finally telling Paul the truth about the wine, he hires her to find out who is behind the counterfeit wine. Between working her job at the restaurant and studying for the Advanced Exam, Katie will attempt to ferret out the truth and uncork a lie.

Like fine wine, the Sommelier Mystery series gets better with age. This second entry is crisp and clean delivering a well executed mystery. As an admitted oenophile, I love the wine descriptions at the start of each chapter. Nettmann's knowledge and love of wine shines through increasing my own appreciation for this delightful beverage. Katie Stillwell continues to be a likeable and relatable protagonist, although there was a scene near the end that made me cringe at the stupidity of her actions. That being said, I enjoyed following her thought process as she reasoned through the mystery as she would an unknown wine, finding clues and discovering the truth.

Revealing collectors and counterfeiters, professionals and fans alike, UNCORKING A LIE  shows that wine is an integral part of the lives of many. Nadine Nettmann skillfully guides readers through this infinitely fascinating world of wine while providing readers with an entertaining mystery. I savored this book and look forward to the next!

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Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Uncorking a Lie by Nadine Nettmann. This is the second in the Sommelier Mystery series and will be released May 8th.

Paul Rafferty has finally found the bottle he's been searching for, the 1975 Chateau Clair Bleu and is celebrating with a special dinner with friends, including sommelier Katie Stillwell. But when Katie opens the wine, she immediately notices something wrong. The $19,000 bottle of wine is a counterfeit! Cooper, the only other person aware of the fraud dies that night in an apparent accident, but Katie isn't so sure his death was accidental. Finally telling Paul the truth about the wine, he hires to to find out who is behind the counterfeit wine. Between working her job at the restaurant and studying for the Advanced Exam, Katie will attempt to ferret out the truth and uncork a lie.

Pressed to Death - A Review & Giveaway

Review

PRESSED TO DEATH by Kirsten Weiss

The Second Perfectly Proper Paranormal Museum Mystery

After nearly being killed, Maddie Kosloski declares she will never get involved in another murder investigation. Yet when she finds the body of a local vineyard owner in a wine vat, everyone expects her to get involved, including her mother! Will Maddie be able to solve the murder while simultaneously helping with the town's annual haunted house and evading Detective Laurel Hammer's attempts to make her life as difficult as possible?

With a caustic, self-deprecating wit Maddie reflects on the strange things occurring in her life. From her mother kowtowing to the president of the Ladies Aid Society (which is showing serious similarities to the mafia), a surly cat, a disconnect from her boyfriend, and the ramifications of having a cursed grape press, Maddie attempts to make sense of it all with the help of her best friends.  Ultimately PRESSED TO DEATH is a story about friendship, family, and sacrifice. Those three themes intertwine characters and their actions giving meaning and motive.

The second Perfectly Proper Paranormal Museum presents more than one puzzling mystery. Kirsten Weiss combines a historical mystery with a current murder, adds concern to the romance, a hint of the paranormal, and plenty of charm to create an absorbing read. I really enjoyed this second entry to the series. The characters have grown, showing greater depth and complexity. In addition, the paranormal aspect to the series is more pronounced and given more serious consideration.I look forward to reading more about Maddie and her perfectly proper paranormal museum!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kirsten Weiss grew up in San Mateo, California. After getting her MBA, she joined the Peace Corps, starting an international career that took her around the fringes of the defunct USSR and into the Afghan war zone. Her experiences abroad not only gave her glimpses into the darker side of human nature, but also sparked an interest in the effects of mysticism and mythology, and how both are woven into our daily lives.

She writes paranormal mystery and suspense, blending her experiences and imagination to create vivid worlds of magic and mayhem.

Kirsten has never met a dessert she didn't like, and her guilty pleasures are watching ghost Whisperer re-runs and drinking good wine.

Author Links Follow her on Twitter @KirstenWeiss, or on her Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/metaphysicaldetective or at her blog at http://kirstenweiss.com  

Purchase Links: Amazon B&N


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Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading Pressed to Death by Kirsten Weiss. This book is the second in the Perfectly Proper Paranormal Museum series and was released last week.

Weird things are going on in California's Central Valley and it's not because of the paranormal museum. A death cafe wants to hold a tea at Adele's tea room, Mason wants "to talk" after apologizing to an old girlfriend, and Maddie's mother is kowtowing to the president of the Ladies Aid Society, which is showing serious similarities to the mafia!

After nearly being killed, Maddie Kosloski declares she will never get involved in another murder investigation. Yet when she finds the body of a local vineyard owner in a wine vat, everyone expects her to get involved, including her mother! Will Maddie be able to solve the murder while simultaneously helping with the town's annual haunted house and evading Detective Laurel Hammer's attempts to make her life as difficult as possible?

Review - THE CHAMPAGNE CONSPIRACY

Review

THE CHAMPAGNE CONSPIRACY by Ellen Crosby

The Seventh Wine Country Mystery

It's a wintry February and the Montgomery Estate Vineyard is working on its upcoming Valentine's celebration as well as creating their first sparkling wine. Lucie and Quinn still haven't moved in together and their relationship may best be described as complicated-and things are about to get even more complicated! A surprise walks in in the guise of Gino Tomassi-a major California wine mogul who is also Quinn's cousin-a fact Quinn kept from Lucie. There's no love lost between the cousins and relations get even worse when Lucie discovers some of their family history that may have serious ramifications. A past which includes a possible murder, a president's indiscretions, and more than one case of "who's the father" serve to create new chaos and a serious threat to Lucie. There's more than one puzzle from the past to be solved here. Will Lucie be able to unravel history's threads to discover the true tapestry of the past? 

Winston Churchill once said, "A single glass of champagne imparts a feeling of exhilaration. The nerves are braced, the imagination is agreeably stirred, the wits become more nimble." The same can be said for THE CHAMPAGNE CONSPIRACY.  This fast paced mystery makes the heart race as threats come from everywhere from several possible suspects. My imagination was definitely stirred as more and more secrets from the past became exposed. My wits certainly became more nimble as I attempted to keep up with Lucie as she discovered more and more; the present threats seemingly hinged in the past.

Ellen Crosby has crafted as fine a mystery as the wines Quinn creates for the Montgomery Estate Vineyard. Well developed flawed characters and intricately layered storylines form this complex multidimensional mystery. I appreciate the way Crosby blends secrets from the past with threats in the present to create a richly nuanced story. I raise my glass of sparkling wine and toast Ellen Crosby as I eagerly await the next installment to this wonderful series.

Currently Reading...

I'm currently reading The Champagne Conspiracy by Ellen Crosby. This book is the seventh in the Wine Country Mystery series and will be released November 1st.

 Lucie and Quinn still haven't moved in together and their relationship may best be described as complicated-and things are about to get even more complicated!

It's a wintry February and the Montgomery Estate Vineyard is working on its upcoming Valentine's celebration as well as creating their first sparkling wine. A surprise walks in in the guise of Gino Tomassi-a major California wine mogul who is also Quinn's cousin-a fact Quinn kept from Lucie. There's no love lost between the cousins and relations get even worse when Lucie discovers some of their family history that may have serious ramifications. A past which includes a possible murder, a president's indiscretions, and more than one case of "who's the father" serve to create new chaos and a serious threat to Lucie. There's more than one puzzle from the past to be solved here. Will Lucie be able to unravel history's threads to discover the true tapestry of the past?

Decanting an Interview, Review, and Giveaway

I'm pleased to welcome Nadine Nettmann to the blog today. Nadine writes the Sommelier Mystery series. Decanting a Murder, the first book in the series, was released earlier this month.

Kathy: Your character is studying to be a sommelier. Why choose this profession for your series?

NN: There are so many details sommeliers need to know about wine and geography and I thought it would be fun to have a protagonist who used that information to solve a mystery. It also helped in writing the series that I’m a Certified Sommelier and love wine. It made the book really fun to write which hopefully shows in the writing.


Kathy: I enjoy wine, visit many wineries, and have even attended wine tasting classes. While my palate is pretty good it isn't anywhere near that of a sommelier. How did you develop your own palate?

NN: I’ve always been very sensitive to spicy food and strong flavors so while I think I had an edge, it really comes down to learning and training your palate. While studying for my sommelier exams, I would walk through the grocery store and smell different fruits, training my brain to identify the scent of blueberries, cranberries, etc. I was also fortunate to join a blind tasting group where we had to identify wines down to region and varietal simply by looking, sniffing, and tasting the wine. Those sessions definitely helped develop and focus my palate.


Kathy: I'm lucky enough to live in the midst of three distinct viticultural regions so I mainly drink these NY state wines. I love the huge variety of Rieslings, but my favorite wine is Gewürztraminer. Do you have a favorite wine?

NN: Excellent choices! I love Gewürztraminer and Riesling. For me, I tend to switch my favorite wines throughout the year. My choices don’t necessarily go along with the seasons, but just what I’m enjoying at that time. I’ve been on a Pinot Grigio kick recently and for red wines, I’ve really been enjoying Cabernet Franc.


Kathy: What first drew you to cozy mysteries?

NN: I’ve been a fan of Agatha Christie since I was little and I love reading amateur sleuths. It makes me feel that everyone can solve a mystery.


Kathy: Do you write in any other genres?

NN: I’m currently working on a domestic suspense so although a different genre within mystery, still in the mystery field. I’m a huge fan of mysteries and I don’t think I will ever stray from that world.


Kathy: Tell us about your series.
NN: Decanting a Murder is the first book in a wine themed murder mystery series featuring Katie Stillwell, a sommelier who solves mysteries by using her wine skills. Every chapter is paired with a wine.


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

NN: I would have to say my main character, Katie Stillwell. I really like that she’s a dedicated friend and a hard worker, but also has a little sass.


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

NN: I’ve loved Murder, She Wrote since I was little and I thought it would be fun to have a series similar to that but in the wine world.


Kathy: What made you decide to publish your work?

NN: I’ve wanted to be a published author my entire life and though it’s been a long journey, I’m so excited that it’s happening now.


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

NN: This is such a fun question! Let’s see, I would choose Agatha Christie, Sue Grafton, Daphne DuMaurier, and Stephen King.


Kathy: What are you currently reading?

NN: I just finished reading Mary Higgins Clark’s I Heard That Song Before which I loved. I’m a big fan of her work and although this book came out several years ago, I hadn’t read it until now.


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

NN: I love decorating cakes for friends and family. It’s so much fun to pipe frosting into designs and working with fondant. I also love playing guitar.


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

NN: I drink a lot of tea so I always have plenty of tea and milk. I’m also a huge fan of pickles so there’s definitely always a jar in the pantry. And of course, wine.


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

NN: I’m just wrapping up the second book in the series, currently titled Uncorking a Lie which will release in 2017 and I have a third one planned for 2018.


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

NN: I love the excitement of writing a first draft when a story pours out of my mind and onto the page.

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Review

Decanting a Murder by Nadine Nettmann
The First Sommelier Mystery


Katie Stillwell is a sommelier trying to advance in her most difficult profession. Invited to an exclusive wine event at an even more exclusive winery, Katie intends to enjoy the experience and the fine wine. The festivities have barely begun when a scream shatters the jovial atmosphere. The owner of the winery has been found dead, stabbed by a corkscrew and left in a vat of wine. The corkscrew turns out to belong to Tessa, Katie's flighty friend, a winery employee who invited her to the tasting...and Tessa cannot be found. Katie owes Tessa and is determined to use the skills of her profession, and tips her cop father taught her, to nose out the real killer!

It takes skill and a discerning palate to become a sommelier; to use all your senses to uncover the mystery in the glass. Katie takes these skills to help her friend in this first Sommelier Mystery.

Katie Stillwell is a likable protagonist. She's eminently relatable; someone with whom you'd like to spend time and get to know. She's sassy, but dependable. Her best friend, Tessa, however, is another story. Tessa's erratic and irrational behavior translates to a variety of mental disorders in my book. If that's what the author was going for, she succeeded. Otherwise readers are left with an unstable convoluted character whose behavior doesn't correspond to the action.

The mystery itself is top shelf. Nattmann lays out some red herrings and I was led astray by several characters. As for the details, Nettmann obviously knows her wine. The addition of pairing suggestions at the start of each chapter is a delightful and appreciated touch.

Decanting a Murder is a great start to a new mystery series, an enjoyable read for oenophiles and teetotalers alike. Nettmann is able to bring an elite career down to earth and tell a good story all the while imparting her wisdom and obvious love for the world of wine.

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