dollycas

[dollycas]

Special Guest - Callie Cassidy from Graven Images: A Rock Creek Village Cozy Mystery by Lori Roberts Herbst #CharacterGuestPost / #Giveaway - Great Escapes Book Tour @lorirobertsherbst

Graven Images: A Rock Creek Village Cozy Mystery (Callie Cassidy Mysteries) by Lori Roberts Herbst I am delighted to welcome Callie Cassidy to Escape With Dollycas today! Hi everyone. I’m Callie Cassidy, a professional photographer and owner of Sundance Studio in Rock Creek Village, Colorado. My author said she’d signed me up to write a blog post, so here I am. I admit I’m a little nervous. I’m much more comfortable behind the lens of a camera than in the limelight, but I’ll do my best. Let’s start with basics. I’m forty-six years old and five-feet, six-inches tall. While I won’t give you my weight, I will say I’m about ten pounds lighter than I was when I moved back to Rock Creek Village two years ago, despite a mother who indulges me with comfort food, a boyfriend who’s a chef, and a place called The Fudge Factory two doors down from my gallery. My hair is best described as chestnut brown, shoulder length, and I pull it back in a ponytail while I work. I don’t wear much makeup, and I choose my clothes for comfort and practicality rather than fashion. Compared to my best friend, Tonya Stephens, who looks like she’s stepped off the cover of a magazine, I’m a slouch. Still, at least once a day, my boyfriend, Sam Petrie, tells me I’m beautiful. I might even be starting to believe him. I was born in the village and lived here until I graduated from high school. Then, I went off to college in Austin, Texas, and spent the next twenty-five years traveling across the country chasing my dream job. Eventually, I got it—investigative photojournalist for the Washington Sentinel. At the risk of bragging, I was at the top of my field, even winning a prestigious Felden Award. Though you may not have heard my name, you’ve likely seen some of my work. But then I made a serious misjudgment, one that resulted in my resignation from The Sentinel and a humiliating return to Rock Creek Village. Little did I know then that this was where I was meant to be. I’m not a big believer in fate, but my mistake ended up changing my life for the better. Now that you’ve read my background, here’s the insider information—five things you should learn to be considered an expert on Callie Cassidy: I treasure my animals. I am the unlikely but adoring petmom to two furry orange creatures. My golden retriever, Woody, is a laid-back guy whose greatest fondness is ear scratches and snacks. As relaxed and cheerful as he comes across, though, don’t dare threaten anyone he loves. His growl is intimidating, and his teeth are sharp. His adopted brother Carl, an orange tabby cat, pretends indifference, but he’s the most inquisitive, intelligent soul you’ll ever meet. You don’t want to mess with him, either. His hiss is intimidating, and—you guessed it—his claws are sharp. - I’m surrounded by the best people in the world. If I tried to name them all, it would sound like an Oscar award acceptance speech, and we all know how boring those get. I’ll just say that, from my parents to my boyfriend to my circle of friends to my former CIA self-appointed protector, the people in my gang provide me the support, the love, and the loyalty I need to make me a better person—along with the occasional not-so-gentle nudge in the right direction when I veer off path. - Photography is my passion. It’s my gift, my aptitude, my craft—the pursuit that, when I’m not doing it, I’m wishing I was. Through photography, I’ve mastered top-notch observational and analytical skills. I’ve learned how to view the world and the people in it. Now that I’ve returned to Rock Creek Village, I’m focusing (pardon the pun) my talent on creating beauty rather than to document tragedy. Both are important, of course, but at this stage in my life, I choose beauty. - I sometimes get a bad rap for nosing into police business. I’ll say it yet again: my involvement in Rock Creek Village crimes is not by choice! Even though my parents (and my boyfriend, and Detective Raul Sanchez, and many others) think I snoop my way into investigations, it’s not true. Sure, there’s an adrenaline rush that comes from working a case. And yes, I consider myself adept at the task. Even so, I don’t search for these crimes. They find me—even in a cemetery. - I love Rock Creek Village. I hope you will, too. I look forward to having you join me on my adventures. Thank you Cassidy for visiting today! ___ Keep reading for move information about Graven Images and author Lori Roberts Herbst. About Graven Images Graven Images: A Rock Creek Village Cozy Mystery (Callie Cassidy Mysteries) Cozy Mystery 6th in the Series Setting - Colorado Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lori Roberts Herbst (April 23, 2024) Number of Pages: 280 Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CY9CQZWM Paperback info coming soon. A photo assignment at the cemetery leads Callie Cassidy to a corpse—this one above ground. Now, her search for the killer unearths some long-buried secrets… Callie’s mother Maggie, a notorious hobby jumper, has embarked on a new pursuit—grave rubbing. When she recruits her daughter to photograph her first endeavor at the local cemetery, Callie brings golden retriever Woody and tabby cat Carl along for the outing. It’s a breathtaking autumn morning in Rock Creek Village, Colorado. Golden aspen leaves rustle in the cool breeze, and the air is filled with the scent of pine. What could go wrong on a day like this? Then, a ghostly woman emerges from the trees, bleeding from a head wound and claiming to have no memory of how she arrived, or even who she is. Maggie quickly identifies her as a woman who disappeared from the village forty years ago—without a trace. If that’s not enough intrigue, Woody disobeys her and sprints deeper into the cemetery. When Callie catches up to him, he is sitting sentinel at the tombstone of a recently deceased villager. And behind the stone, a man lies on the ground—with a pickaxe jutting from his neck. Callie recognizes him as the low-level mobster who has been dating her best friend Tonya’s mother—and they’d been having problems. Did Tonya’s mother kill the man? Could it have been the mysterious woman? Or maybe someone with ties to his crime family? Callie can’t resist investigating—and this time, Detective Raul Sanchez welcomes her assistance. Because if they can’t solve the crime soon, the town may be facing grave consequences… Great Escapes Praise for Graven Images: A Rock Creek Village Cozy Mystery (Callie Cassidy Mysteries) by Lori Roberts Herbst I definitely recommend Graven Images! The well-written characters, captivating mystery, and picturesque setting make this a cozy mystery you won’t want to miss! ~Christy's Cozy Corners The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted cozy mystery. ~MJB REVIEWERS About Lori Roberts Herbst Silver Falchion and CIBA Murder & Mayhem award-winning author Lori Roberts Herbst writes the Callie Cassidy Mystery series. A former journalism teacher and counselor, Lori serves as Board Secretary for Sisters in Crime. She is a member of the SinC Colorado chapter, the SinC North Dallas chapter, and the Guppy chapter, where she moderates the Cozy Gup group. Lori spent most of her life in Dallas, TX, and now lives in Colorado Springs. Author Social Media Links Website    Facebook    GoodReads    BookBub    Amazon    Instagram Purchase Links Amazon  TOUR PARTICIPANTS - Please visit all the stops.  April 23 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT April 23 – Christy's Cozy Corners – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY  April 24 – Sneaky the Library Cat’s blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW April 24 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST April 25 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT April 25 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY  April 26 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR GUEST POST April 26 – MJB Reviewer – REVIEW April 27 – Teatime and Books – SPOTLIGHT April 27 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – CHARACTER GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY April 28 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT April 29 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW April 29 – Sapphyria's Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT a Rafflecopter giveaway Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today! Want to Book a Tour? Click Here Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent Read the full article

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Special Guest - Barbara Howard - Author of A Match Made in Murder (The Clover City Files) - #GuestPost / #Giveaway - Great Escapes Book Tour @bhowardphipps @barbarahoward

A Match Made in Murder (The Clover City Files) by Barbara Howard It is my pleasure to welcome Barbara Howard back to Escape With Dollycas today! Valentine's Day Picture this: an epic Valentine's Day wedding event, when the promise of eternal love hovers over twelve blissful couples, and passion permeates the air. However, hiding just beyond the emotional vows and champagne toasts, there's a murder most wicked that steals the happiness from the celebration. As an author, the prospect of crafting a cozy mystery set against the backdrop of a Valentine's Day wedding filled me with inspiration. From the outset, I knew that this story would be fun—a chance to explore the complexities of human relationships while weaving a tale of intrigue that would keep readers guessing until the very end. Amira Cooper and Harper Martinez, her closest friend, who are the story's amateur sleuths, delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a web of secrets, lies, and hidden motives that cast suspicion on everyone in attendance. From hidden love affairs to long-held grudges, the suspects are as varied as they are compelling, each with their own motives and secrets waiting to be unearthed. But amidst the intrigue, there's also room for romance and laughter. The budding romance between the tabloid reporter and the rising star executive chef adds a touch of sweetness to the story, while the antics of the eccentric matchmaker inject moments of levity that serve to balance out the tension and suspense. The grandiose wedding event allowed me to infuse the story with a sense of whimsy and romance that added an extra layer of charm to the setting. And, the Valentine's Day holiday allowed for the exploration of themes such as love, commitment, and the complexities of human relationships. The juxtaposition of romance and murder creates a compelling narrative. Through the lens of Amira and Harper's investigation, readers are able to witness the resilience of the human spirit and the power of friendship in the face of adversity. There are moments of quiet reflection and connection—moments where their bond strengthens, and the true meaning of friendship shines through. And, as the story reaches its thrilling conclusion, with the killer unmasked and justice served, there's a sense of catharsis and closure—a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, love prevails. Finally, I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for joining me on this journey. Writing this mystery was a labor of love, and I hope that it brings a smile to your face and a touch of magic to your day. After all, the best stories are those that come straight from the heart. Thank you Barbara so much for visiting today! ____ Keep reading for more information about Barbara and A Match Made in Murder.  About A Match Made in Murder A Match Made in Murder (The Clover City Files) Cozy Mystery 3rd in Series Setting – Fictional small town, Clover City (Mid-West, USA) Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently Published (February 14, 2024) Paperback ‏ : ‎ 134 pages ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8224039555 Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CR44LMBR "In the heart of Clover City, love is a grand affair orchestrated by matchmaker extraordinaire, Fiona Murphy. But this Valentine's Day, her twelve perfect weddings become a chilling mystery. As the Boat House restaurant transforms from a haven of romance to a crime scene, 'A Match Made in Murder' unveils a tale where love and betrayal intermingle, and uncovering the truth becomes the ultimate act of love." In the heart of the charming town of Clover City, matchmaker extraordinaire, Fiona Murphy, is renowned for orchestrating love stories that culminate in dreamy weddings. This Valentine's Day, she's outdone herself by arranging twelve weddings in a grand celebration at the upscale Boat House restaurant, where love is on the menu and bliss is in the air. Among the attendees is Fiona’s efficient and loyal assistant, eager to ensure everything runs smoothly. There's also an unexpected guest—Fiona’s charismatic yet enigmatic ex-husband, whose presence adds a layer of complexity to the festivities. However, as the festivities kick off, a hushed realization sweeps through the gathering—someone is conspicuously absent. The joyous occasion takes a dark turn when a lifeless body is discovered, casting a shadow over the day meant for love and celebration. Suddenly, the Boat House transforms from a haven of romance to a crime scene, and everyone present becomes a suspect. With the victim silenced forever, secrets, grudges, and long-buried emotions rise to the surface. The task of unraveling the twisted threads of this romantic tragedy falls into the hands of the local patrons, as the Boat House becomes a stage for a mystery where the appetizer is suspicion, the main course is intrigue, and the dessert is justice. Bonus: Recipes included. About Barbara Howard  Barbara Howard is an author of mystery stories featuring a female amateur sleuth, diverse characters, and a dash of romance. Barbara Howard is the author of two cozy mystery series; Finding Home and The Clover City Files. Her stories feature a female amateur sleuth, diverse characters, and a dash of romance. She is a first-generation tech geek turned master gardener. Ms. Howard returned to her Midwestern hometown after an extensive career as a Department of Defense Project Manager at the Pentagon, KPMG Eastern Region Project Leader, and Corporate Sales Representative for Borders Books & Music. She now spends most of her time treasure hunting, spoiling her fur-babies, growing veggies, and plotting whodunits. Author Social Media Links Website Facebook   GoodReads    Instagram    Pinterest    Blue Sky Social    Twitter/X Purchase Links Amazon  TOUR PARTICIPANTS - Please visit all the stops.  April 24 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT April 25 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT April 26 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW April 27 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – AUTHOR GUEST POST April 28 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – SPOTLIGHT April 29 – Elizabeth McKenna - Author – SPOTLIGHT April 30 – Christy's Cozy Corners – CHARACTER GUEST POST May 1 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT May 2 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT May 3 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT May 4 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST May 5 – Sapphyria's Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT May 6 – Celticlady's Reviews – RECIPE POST May 7 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT a Rafflecopter giveaway Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today! Want to Book a Tour? Click Here Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent Read the full article

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#FlashbackFriday featuring Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off (A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery) by Darci Hannah #Review / #Giveaway @KensingtonBooks @AuthorDarciHannah

On Flashback Fridays I will share with you the books I was not able to review when they were first released that have been screaming at me from my To-Be-Read bookshelf. Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off (A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery) Cozy Mystery 2nd in the Series Setting - Michigan Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington (October 5, 2021) Paperback ‏ : ‎ 352 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496731735 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496731739 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08RX1V293 Tucked away inside an old lighthouse in Beacon Harbor, Michigan, bakeshop café owner Lindsey Bakewell is ready to make her first Christmas in town shine bright. But her merry plans crumble fast when murder appears under the mistletoe . . . With the spirit of the holidays wafting through the Beacon Bakeshop, Lindsey thinks she has the recipe for the sweetest Christmas ever—winning the town-wide cookie bake-off. Unfortunately, striving for a picture-perfect December in Beacon Harbor is a lot like biting into stale shortbread. Low on staff and bombarded by visits from family, Lindsey can barely meet demands at work, let alone summon the confidence to face fierce competition . . . Self-appointed Christmas know-it-all Felicity Stewart is determined to take the top spot in the bake‑off, and she’s not afraid to dump a little coal in everyone’s stocking to do it. Just as the competition heats up, everything falls apart when the judge is found dead—and covered in crumbs from Lindsey’s signature cookie! Solving a murder was never on Lindsey’s wish list. But with her reputation on the line during the happiest time of the year, she’ll need to bring her best talents to the table in order to sift out the true Christmas Cookie culprit. Includes Delicious Recipes! Dollycas's Thoughts Lindsey Bakewell is excited to bring her "sugarplum visions" to life at her Beacon Bakeshop and Cafe. She has bought a ton of lights to make her lighthouse merry and bright. She has wonderful ideas to fill her shelves with holiday treats but she still needs to hire a new assistant. When she finds out about a town-wide cookie bake-off, and that every shop owner needed to create a signature cookie so shoppers could vote for their favorites, culminating in a live bake-off with a celebrity judge, she swoons at the amount of extra baking it will entail. And that was before orders for cookies from other shop owners started to flow in.  Felicity Stewart owner of The Tannenbaum Shoppe, where every day is Christmas, is willing to do anything to win The Great Beacon Harbor Christmas Cookie Bake-Off. She has even arranged for Chicago celebrity food critic Chevy Chambers to judge the live bake-off event. Sadly, before the winner can be announced her friend, Chevy, is found under the mistletoe, covered in cookie crumbs from Lindsay's signature cookie and dead as a doornail. Lindsey is going to need all the help she can get to catch the Christmas Cookie Judge Killer. It's a good thing her parents and her BFF Kennedy are in Beacon Harbor for the holidays and her hunky boyfriend/neighbor Rory is home from his ice fishing trip. If the town has any hopes of having Happy Holidays they all have to work together before all the cookies crumble and killer gets away. ____ I was so happy to get back to Beacon Harbor and the Beacon Bakeshop and Cafe. It being Christmastime was just icing on the cookies. With Ms. Hannah's descriptive writing style, I was transported right there to witness Lindsey's tumble into a snowbank. Her giant Newfoundland, Wellington, looking on. The town lit up for the holidays and all the humor, hijinx, and crazy things leading up to the bake-off. Along with all the aftermath as Lindsey tries to find a killer.  Ms. Hannah has created dynamic characters who feel genuine. Lindsey is a fun protagonist. I loved that she has "sugarplum visions" like me. Lindsey's best friend Kennedy always has her back, but sometimes goes off with her own ideas. Lindsey has a close relationship with her parents. Even her mom, ex-supermodel, Ellie Montague, came up with a plan and took part as they all worked to catch the killer. Rory too, was all in. I also enjoyed meeting Carol Nichols, Lindsey's new assistant. She is one special lady. There are a few mysteries in this story. The question is -  are they connected? I enjoyed that solving them was a team effort. Lindsey, Rory, and Kennedy meet to discuss theories and make plans while Lindsey's parents get together with their friends to do the same. It isn't long before they are all working together and Mrs. Nichols joins in too, even though she was on the suspect list for a bit of time. It was so much fun following the cookie crumbs along with them as clues started to fall into place. I was kept guessing right up until the end. The story's ending was heartwarming and I highlighted these lines from Mrs. Nichols. "Christmas happens as it will. There is no right way to celebrate. It's about joy." She is right. It's all about JOY! that you feel and share with others. Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off is a very entertaining holiday mystery filled with Christmas spirit, cookies, and events to keep those pages turning. I have become invested in these characters including Captain Willy Riggs, the town of Beacon Harbor, and the Beacon Bakeshop and Cafe. I escaped right into this book and I can't wait to escape into Murder at the Blueberry Festival and spend some summertime with the residents of Beacon Harbor. Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent   About the author Cozy mystery author, Darci Hannah, is a native of the Midwest and currently lives in a small town in Michigan. Darci is a lifelong lover of the Great Lakes, a natural wonder that inspires many of her stories. When Darci isn't baking for family and friends, hiking with her furry pals, Ripley and Finn, or concocting her next cozy mystery, she can be found wandering around picturesque lakeside villages with her hubby, sampling baked goods, and breaking for coffee more often than she should. You can learn more about Darci and her books at www.darcihannah.com Connect with Darci on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDarciHannah The Rest of the Series Also written by Darci Hannah I am giving away a Kindle Copy of Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off! The contest is open to anyone over 18 years old. Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find something you like here and become a follower. Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow. Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Following My Facebook Fan Page. Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries. Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries. If you share the giveaway on Threads, X, or Facebook or anywhere you will receive 5 Bonus Entries For Each Link. The  Contest Will End May 10, 2024, at 11:59 PM CST The Winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org The Winner Will Be Notified By Email and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar. Click Here For Entry Form Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”                                    Read the full article

[dollycas]

Special Guest - Kate Parker - Author of Deadly Gamble - #GuestPost / #Giveaway - Great Escapes Book Tour @Author.Kate.Parker

Deadly Gamble: A World War II Mystery by Kate Parker I am delighted to welcome Kate Parker back to Escape With Dollycas! The Deadly Series Anyone who reads my books knows that children and pets will not be seriously harmed, murder is off-screen, and sex is even more off-screen. While that doesn’t change, there is a danger that a long-running series (the Deadly Series is now eleven books and three short stories long) could become stale if the main character doesn’t change and evolve. Livvy and Adam met in the first book, Deadly Scandal, after, and due to, the murder of Livvy’s first husband. They were married in book six, Deadly Darkness, and since then, they haven’t spent much time together due to World War II. While Livvy is still determined to help the war effort, spending time with Anna awakens her maternal instincts. This marks our heroine closing in on her thirtieth birthday and her third wedding anniversary. In normal circumstances, she would have expected to be a mother by this time. She grew up in the interwar years, when the goal of nearly every woman was to be a married mother and homemaker. She was raised by her father, who grew up in the last years of Queen Victoria’s reign when they thought the old queen would never die and life would never change. Livvy has grown up in a different time, marked by the slaughter of the Great War and the Great Influenza Epidemic. British society has changed. More women were single and needed to work to support themselves. Skirts were shorter; labor saving devices were entering the home. But the fundamentals, church on Sunday and children if the good Lord provided them, hadn’t changed. What does that mean for Livvy in the rest of the series? The simplest solution would be for her to give birth soon after the end of the war when Adam, even if he remains in the army or the government, would be located in a place where they could establish a home. This would be the Princess Elizabeth model, who was a young Navy wife living with her husband on Malta with their two young children before she became queen. Another would be for Livvy to have a child on an infrequent visit from Adam who is still off training troops away from civilization. This would require her to hire a nanny or get help from her best friend Esther Powell or her cousin Lady Abby Summersby in raising the child while she continues to work. Or Livvy would have to resign from work on the newspaper and from helping Sir Malcolm on his spying missions. A third path would be for Livvy to postpone having children for a few more books, until she could be reunited with Adam in the latter part of the war when they could be reunited and living in Egypt, Palestine, or the Shetland Islands. Despite his injuries that keep him out of combat, Adam could be a desk officer in all of these places and probably more I haven’t thought of yet. No matter which path the Deadly Series takes after Deadly Gamble, as the fortunes of war change for Britain, a desire for children will change Livvy’s path and should keep the Deadly Series from becoming stale. Who knows? A mixture of a couple of these paths could create more difficulties for Livvy and more fun for the reader. Would this allow the Deadly Series to grow boring? Never. There’s four more years of war for Livvy to fight through and plenty of adventures ahead set in real locales and in real circumstances, sprinkled with imaginary murders. Deadly Gamble by Kate Parker is the eleventh story in the Deadly Series of historical mysteries. It can be found in e-book and print at all your favorite online retailers. Thank you, Kate, so much for visiting today! _____ Keep reading for more info about Kate's new book, Deadly Gamble.  About Deadly Gamble Deadly Gamble: A World War II Mystery Historical Cozy Mystery 11th in Series Setting - Lisbon, Portugal in 1941 Publisher ‏ : ‎ JDP Press (April 16, 2024) Print length ‏ : ‎ 255 pages Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CPW8GHT3 In 1940s Portugal, everyone is willing to trade secrets if the price is right. Britain stands alone against the forces of Nazi Germany. Livvy Redmond is a young newspaperwoman determined to serve Britain’s spymaster in the face of danger. When she arrives in neutral Lisbon, she discovers a city full of spies, refugees, and the secret police. At an elegant party to meet a double agent, Livvy witnesses him fall to his death from a balcony and must now determine what secrets he wanted to pass her. Further complicating matters, she must guard the man’s young daughter from sinister people trying to kidnap the girl. Gambling on the assistance of British embassy staff, Livvy commits to uncovering the truth while keeping the orphan safe. With spies and traitors lurking around every corner, Livvy must race against time to learn the secret someone has already killed to keep hidden – and is willing to murder again to protect. Deadly Gamble is the exciting eleventh book in the World War II mystery Deadly Series. If you like intrepid heroines, research-based history and clean reads, then you’ll love USA Today Bestselling Author Kate Parker’s page-turning mystery. Great Escapes Praise for Deadly Gamble: A World War II Mystery by Kate Parker I loved Deadly Gamble! If you love historical cozy mystery books, I highly recommend that you read the book! The exciting plot, well-written characters, and beautifully detailed descriptions make this a must-read! ~CHRISTY’S COZY CORNERS DEADLY GAMBLE is a riveting story of spies and intrigue in a city trying to hold on to its luster. ~Cozy Up With Kathy Deadly Gamble is an enjoyable story with great characters, a well-plotted mystery, and realistic actions. ~Carla Loves To Read Historical fiction, murder, and lovely characters. Parker provides the backdrop and her characters are well-developed. For anyone who likes cozy mysteries or WW II fiction, will enjoy this book. ~Christa Reads and Writes About Kate Parker Kate Parker grew up inside the Beltway, when DC was a sleepy southern city and you could walk along the sidewalk directly in front of the White House. Now you can’t get within a block of the White House, and it takes Foggy Bottom and the Pentagon to house even part of what the Old State, War and Navy building held. All this fed Kate’s love of history. With retirement, Kate moved to North Carolina and took up writing historical mysteries. Now with a career spanning over a decade, Kate is a USA Today bestselling author and the Deadly Series is her longest-running series. She lives with her daughter and a 110-pound puppy. Author Links Website    Facebook Purchase Links Amazon - B&N  - Kobo - Apple  The Rest of the Series Find all of Kate Parker's books here. TOUR PARTICIPANTS - Please visit all the stops.  April 16 – Elizabeth McKenna - Author – SPOTLIGHT April 16 – Christy's Cozy Corners – REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST April 17 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT   April 17 – Teatime and Books – SPOTLIGHT April 18 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT April 19 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW April 20 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT April 20 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT April 21 – Carla Loves To Read – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST April 22 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW April 23 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT April 24 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW April 24 – Sapphyria's Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT April 25 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT April 25 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – AUTHOR GUEST POST a Rafflecopter giveaway Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today! Want to Book a Tour? Click Here Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent Read the full article

[dollycas]

Cozy Wednesday featuring Three Fudges and a Baby (A Candy-Coated Mystery) by Nancy Coco #Review / #Giveaway @KensingtonBooks @nancyjcoco

Welcome to Cozy Wednesday!  I am delighted to share my thoughts today about Three Fudges and A Baby by Nancy Coco! Three Fudges and a Baby (A Candy-Coated Mystery) Cozy Mystery 12th in Series Setting - Mackinac Island, Michigan Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington (March 26, 2024) Paperback ‏ : ‎ 336 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496743709 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496743701 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C9VYMYP9 DID THE DOULA DO IT? April is not only the start of “fudgie” season on picturesque Mackinac Island, it’s when Allie’s BFF Jenn Carpenter is due. Jenn wants to have her baby on the island, so she’s lined up a midwife and a doula. But she’s two weeks overdue—and if one more person tells her she looks ready to pop, she’s going to go bananas. If there was a list of what not to expect when you’re expecting, right at the top would be coming upon your doula holding a gun over the body of her fiance. Clearly in shock, Hannah Riversbend claims not to have shot him. Jenn asks Ally to prove the doula’s innocence before her special delivery arrives. The clock is ticking as Ally races to solve the murder in time for Jenn’s bun to come out of the oven. . . Dollycas's Thoughts Spring on Mackinac Island means the "fudgies" are coming! It also means it is time for Allie McMurphy's best friend Jenn Carpenter to deliver her baby, but it seems Baby Carpenter is in no hurry to exit the safe, warm, comfort of Mama's womb. Her midwife and doula assure her that being two weeks late is no big deal but she is more than ready for the baby to embark on their trip down the birth canal so she can see her toes again. Movement is a good way to start labor whether it be walking or waddling so Jenn and Allie walk down to the Coffee Bean to meet her doula, Hannah Riversbend. But when they take a shortcut down an alley they find Hannah holding a gun and her fiance, Matthew Jones dead on the ground. It is clear the woman is in shock and she says she didn't kill him but she was holding the gun. With her doula in the slammer, Jenn is freaking out. She begs Allie to find the real killer fast. She can't give birth without Hannah. She is going to be busy making fudge but she can't let her friend down, so she decides to find out how to do it all, and oh, did I forget to mention her mother is in town with an agenda of her own? ____ McMurphy Hotel and Fudge Shop owner Allie McMurphy has her hands full in Three Fudges and A Baby and she rolls with just a couple of missteps, just as I have come to expect. Business is brisk and she needs to hire an assistant as soon as possible. Her mother makes a surprise visit and expects her to drop everything so that she can get back together with her old boyfriend because he has money and her current boyfriend, Officer Rex Manning is not good enough for her. Jenn is cranky and rightly so, being nine and a half months pregnant is not fun. And now Allie has a murder to solve. She is a fantastic protagonist and all the people Ms. Coco has put in her orbit are cleverly created and true to life, even Allie's mother. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twists. Rex wasn't totally on board with Heather Riversbend being the killer but he had to follow the evidence. He takes a huge chance to help Jenn. He is such a good guy. Hear that Mrs. McMurphy! Allie gets help from the "seniors" as she and her puppy Mal try to figure out who has a motive to kill Matthew Jones.  Gossip starts to run rampant on the island and in a surprising turn Allie makes a deal with the devil. So much happens within the pages of the book that the pages were absolutely flying. The takedown was scary but I had the right guilty party at the top of my personal suspect list and that always feels good. Mackinac Island is a special place that I have always wanted to visit. I may never actually make the trip so for now I settle for the virtual trips Ms. Coco takes me on in this series. I know there is nothing like fudge made by a professional like Allie, but the author includes easy recipes at the start of several chapters. I suggest picking one to make before you start reading because you will be craving fudge. Three Fudges and A Baby is a wonderful addition to this series. It is full of engaging characters, sans a meddling mother and an intriguing mystery set on the #1 Best Island in the Continental U.S. The final paragraphs of the book are not going to make Allie's mother happy but I am thrilled. The teaser chapter has me longing for April 2025 when Fudge and Murder is set to be released. Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent About the Author Nancy Coco is the byline chosen by popular author Nancy J. Parra for use exclusively with the Candy-Coated Mysteries series.  She also writes the Kensington Palace Chef Mysteries as Nell Hampton. With degrees in engineering, journalism, and a MA in Writing Popular Fiction, Nancy has published in cozy mystery, romantic suspense, and sweet western historical romances. An Air Force veteran who rose to the rank of sergeant, Nancy is a member of an online group of female veterans who are authors—“Military Women Who Have Turned Sword to Pen.” The group’s website is www.romvets.com. Nancy is also a member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. She has given workshops on a number of writing topics and enjoys doing author panels at fan conferences such as Malice Domestic and Bouchercon. She lives in California with her dog—a bichonpoo affectionately known as Little Dog on Nancy’s Facebook and Twitter accounts. Website - Twitter - Facebook  Written as Nancy J. Parra Written as Nell Hampton Thanks to the publisher I have 1 print ARC to give away! Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find something you like here and become a follower. Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow. Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Liking My Facebook Fan Page. Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries. Follow Kensington Books on Twitter for 2 Bonus Entries! Follow Kensington Publishing on Facebook for 2 Bonus Entries Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries. If you publicize the giveaway on Twitter or Facebook or anywhere you will receive 5 Bonus Entries For Each Link. Contest Will End May 8, 2024, at 11:59 PM CST Winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org The Winner Will Be Notified By Email and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar. Click Here For Entry Form Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read the full article

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K.B. Jackson

Coming April 30, 2024 - PreOrder Today! Until Depths Do Us Part (Cruising Sisters Mystery) by KB Jackson Women Sleuth/Mystery 1st in Series Cruise Seattle to Alaska Publisher: Tule Publishing (April 30, 2024) Sudden riches lead to a world of trouble… Newly widowed Charlotte McLaughlin is adrift following the sudden death of her husband of twenty years and the shocking discovery of the lavish double life he’d lived while purportedly traveling for business. When Charlotte’s only nephew and his fiancée are notified that their secluded wedding venue has flooded, her sister Jane suggests an alternative venue: a Thanksgiving week cruise from Seattle to Alaska aboard the private residence ship where Charlotte’s husband had purchased a two-bedroom unit without her knowledge. What better way to get closer with her family and banish the memories Charlotte can’t bear to touch now? But the bride is found dead less than twenty-four hours after departure, and the head of security holds the groom on suspicion of her murder. Charlotte and Jane must figure out who is responsible for the murder before their nephew goes to jail for a crime they’re adamant he couldn’t have committed. Then a second victim is discovered, and Charlotte becomes even more certain there’s a killer on the guest list. Author Links Website    Facebook     Instagram    Twitter / X    GoodReads Also written by K. B. Jackson Secrets Don't Sink: A Chattertowne Mystery Traditional Mystery 1st in Series Setting -Washington Level Best Books (July 4, 2023) Loose lips may sink ships, but bodies and secrets will always float to the surface. Audrey O’Connell has returned from Portland to her hometown of Chattertowne, Washington, a place where gossip is currency but knowing when to stay tight-lipped is priceless. Procuring a part-time job at the local newspaper to keep an eye on her impetuous sister following Vivienne’s latest romantic scandal, Audrey is assigned a feature series for the upcoming festival which has her digging through the town archives in search of anything interesting. When her former boyfriend Marcus is found floating dead in the marina not long after reaching out to her in hopes of utilizing her research skills, her investigation reveals his conspiracy theories about Chattertowne and corruption within its leadership might not have been so crazy after all. As she plumbs the depths of the town’s 150-year history, she discovers that beneath the façade of this idyllic hamlet lie secrets long-submerged–including within her own family–and finds herself in the crosshairs of those who guard them. Now with three dead bodies, an intense case of aquaphobia, and a narrow window before her deadline, Audrey looks to City Manager Holden, octogenarian historian Mildred, and her enigmatic almost-boyfriend Darren to help her discover the truth that will forever change her and Chattertowne. Click on the covers for more information or to order by Amazon. 5/15/2024 Read the full article

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Marcy Blesy

Dying to Go was a cute and enjoyable read. I was entertained by great characters who made me giggle often and a puzzling mystery.  ~Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book Dying to Go (Nothing to Gush About): A Tucson Valley Retirement Community Cozy Mystery Cozy Mystery 1st in Series Setting - Arizona Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently Published (November 9, 2023) Paperback ‏ : ‎ 281 pages ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8865863427 Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CLL1LHK6 Thirty-nine-year-old Rosi Laruee—named Rosisophia Doroche after her mother’s beloved Golden Girls—decides that the end of her twenty-year marriage and her dad’s impending knee replacement surgery are all the excuses she needs to visit Tucson Valley Retirement Community. But the drama follows Rosi when she finds the body of local tart and business owner, Salem Mansfield. The information she discovers using her newspaper reporter sleuthing skills coupled with the clues she picks up from lackluster Police Officer Dan Daniel lead to a surprise discovery when the murderer is revealed. Along the way, she meets a cast of characters in her parents' social circle who leave her questioning her parents' choices in friends while simultaneously befriending many of the residents, including a handsome landscaper and a brand-new Golden Retriever puppy she names Barley. Rosi’s visit to Tucson Valley proves more than she’d bargained for, but maybe, she realizes, it’s just the kind of change she needs. Laugh out loud with Rosi, and be prepared to get the happy feels along the way! Author Links Website  Facebook   Instagram    Threads The Rest of the Series Coming April 27, 2024 Click on the covers/links for more information or to order by Amazon. 4/30/2024 Read the full article

[dollycas]

A Lighthouse Snapshot: A Secret Identity, Opposites Attract Romance (The Turner Family of Bluestar Island) by Jennifer Faye #Review / #Giveaway @JenniferFaye34

A Lighthouse Snapshot: A Secret Identity, Opposites Attract Romance (The Turner Family of Bluestar Island) by Jennifer Faye About A Lighthouse Snapshot A Lighthouse Snapshot: A Secret Identity, Opposites Attract Romance (The Turner Family of Bluestar Island) Small Town Romance 4th in Series Setting - Bluestar Island (a fictional island off the coast of Massachusetts) Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lazy Dazy Press (April 15, 2024) Number of Pages - 269 pages Digital - ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CL815P2R As tulips bloom and the sun warms the air, the Bluestar ferry delivers a special visitor to the island whose search for the past leads her directly in the path of her future. With Spring Fling the next event on Bluestar’s busy calendar, the residents decide to use it to play another round of matchmaking. Travel blogger Elaine “Lainey” Devereaux is led to the island by a cryptic entry in her late mother’s journal. With the weight of grief driving Lainey onward, she searches for a long-buried secret but before she can uncover the truth there’s a tragic accident. Graphic artist Jack Turner is on top of the world as he anticipates a big promotion and a move to the Big Apple. He’s minding his own business when the most beautiful woman rushes into the roadway, right in front of his cart. With no time to stop, the collision leaves both of them stunned. As circumstances conspire to draw them together, they soon find themselves helping each other to come to terms with the past while exploring an unexpected love. Includes a recipe for Elegant Whoopie Pies! Dollycas's Thoughts Elaine “Lainey” Devereaux has taken a break from her corporate job at her father's business to search for answers. Her mother tried to tell her something while on her deathbed and Lainey can't move on until she learns what her mother was trying to tell her. Using her mother's journal, she follows in her footsteps across the country while penning a successful travel blog. Her mother's next journal entry takes her to Bluestar Island. Jack Turner is a graphic designer who has been working remotely but is expecting a big promotion that will have him leaving the island for New York. In his haste to get home for a mandatory Zoom meeting, he is unable to stop his golf cart before hitting a woman who had stepped into his path. Jack and Lainey are soon spending a lot of time together but can they handle what life has in store for them? ____ The author has created such strong characters in this 4th/9th Turner Family of Bluestar Island romance. I felt for Lainey immediately. Losing your mom is hard enough but knowing she died with a huge secret would have been devastating. Making it worse was that her dad knew but wouldn't tell her. I loved that she found her mother's journal and took off on her own to learn more about her mother and what both her parents had been hiding. The journey wasn't easy and getting hit by a golf cart wasn't a great welcome to Bluestar Island but Lainey didn't give up. She was determined to find the truth. Jack was dealing with some secrets of his own. Most of his family lives on the island and the family ties are strong but they don't know everything he is dealing with. He feels a job in the city will be a good way to reboot his life.  He is such a good man and doesn't know anything about Lainey but he volunteers to take care of her as she recovers from her injuries. His family also steps in to help. With the Spring Fling readers meet and reconnect with Jack's family and other island residents. They are a close-knit group known to be marvelous matchmakers and they are ready to work their magic again. They can see what Jack and Lainey are trying to deny. But Lainey has her own secret that could blow up their whole relationship. It was fun to watch from the sidelines. Bluestar Island is a special place. Many have lived there their entire lives. They are strong in their beliefs. Some of the women can be a little overbearing but their hearts are in the right place. They look out for each other but welcome newcomers. It reminds me of how small towns used to be. It is a place I would love to visit. I may not want to leave. What I really enjoyed was the bit of mystery. What was Lainey's parents secret? I thought I had it all figured out but Ms. Faye threw in a twist I didn't see coming and then the twists kept coming. I loved the way the story played out. A Lighthouse Snapshot is a charming well-written romance filled with surprises. I escaped right into the story and was delightfully entertained. I love stories of hope and second chances. I also love stories that include lighthouses. Ms. Faye offers a Bonus Epilogue at the end of the book. Be sure to click the link to read more of Jack and Lainey's story. I can't wait to read more of this series. Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent About Jennifer Faye Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances. With more than a million books sold, she is internationally published with books translated into more than a dozen languages and her work has been optioned for film. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards. Now living her dream, she resides with her very patient husband and two spoiled cats. When she's not plotting out her next romance, you can find her curled up with a mug of tea and a book. Author Links Website   Hearts & Scribbles Blog    Bookbub     Facebook    X/Twitter     Goodreads   Pinterest Purchase Link Books2Read - Amazon  Bluestar Island series: Book 1 – Love Blooms (Hannah & Ethan) Free on Amazon! Book 2 – Harvest Dance (Aster & Sam) Book 3 – A Lighthouse Café Christmas (Darla & Will) Book 4 – Rising Star (Emma & Noah) Book 5 – Summer by the Beach (Summer & Greg) Book 6 – Brass Anchor Inn (Josie & Lane) Book 7 – Summer Refresh (Sara & Kent) Book 8 – A Seaside Bookshop Christmas (Melinda & Liam) Book 9 – A Lighthouse Snapshot (Lainey & Jack) Book 10 – Inheriting Her Island House (Brianna & Grant) - Coming August 26, 2024 TOUR PARTICIPANTS - Please visit all the stops.  April 22 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT April 23 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW April 23 – Literary Gold – AUTHOR INTERVIEW April 23 – Sapphyria's Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT April 24 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT April 24 – Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT April 25 – Christy's Cozy Corners – REVIEW, EXCERPT April 25 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT April 26 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT April 27 – Baroness Book Trove – REVIEW April 27 – Reading Is My SuperPower – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT April 28 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT a Rafflecopter giveaway Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today! Want to Book a Tour? Click Here Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read the full article

[dollycas]

Audio Book - Murder a la Mode: Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries by Lena Gregory - Read by Eleanor McCormick - Book Blast @LenaGregory03

Audio Book Murder a la Mode: Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries by Lena Gregory Read by Eleanor McCormick Murder a la Mode: Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries Cozy Mystery 1st in Series Setting – New York Audiobook (April 23, 2024) Publisher - Tantor Audio Listening Length - 7 hours and 10 minutes ASIN B0CZFBCBG7 Audio CD ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CZ2MCHGC Also Available As Paperback ‏ : ‎ 197 pages ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8853281721 Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C2LH144G From author Lena Gregory comes a delicious new series that will warm your heart and leave you guessing until the very end... When twenty-five-year-old Danika Delaney, black sheep of the Delaney clan, returns home to Long Island to take over Jimmie's, her eccentric uncle’s old fashioned malt shop on eastern Long Island, she’s not exactly thrilled. But things start to look up when her uncle tells her she can do whatever she’d like with the shop, and it seems she might realize her dream of a small trendy café. That is, until she discovers the body of her ex-boyfriend’s estranged wife in a melted puddle of rocky road in the malt shop basement. With her two sidekicks, her sister and a good childhood friend, in tow, Dani searches for–or stumbles upon—one clue after another. But as she narrows down the suspect list, she realizes if she’s not careful she may end up in a puddle of her own... About Lena Gregory Lena grew up in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island, but she recently traded in cold, damp, gray winters for the warmth and sunshine of Central Florida, where she now lives with her husband, three kids, son-in-law, and four dogs. Her hobbies include spending time with family, reading, and walking. Her love for writing developed when her youngest son was born and didn’t sleep through the night. She works full time as a writer and a freelance editor and is a member of Sisters in Crime. Author Links - Newsletter - Website - Facebook - Facebook Page - Twitter - Goodreads - Pinterest Purchase Links - Amazon - B & N - Kobo  Audiobooks Coming Soon!  MURDER A LA MODE AUDIO RELEASE BOOK BLAST PARTICIPANTS APRIL 23 Guatemala Paula Loves to Read Ruff Drafts Literary Gold Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book Socrates Book Reviews Celticlady's Reviews Cozy Up With Kathy Christy's Cozy Corners Brooke Blogs APRIL 24 Maureen's Musings Sarah Can't Stop Reading Eskimo Princess Book Reviews Sapphyria's Book Reviews Reading Is My SuperPower Baroness Book Trove Hearts & Scribbles FUONLYKNEW Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today! Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent Read the full article

[dollycas]

My Reading Itinerary Monday! – Week #17 – 2024

Welcome to My Reading Itinerary Monday!  Where are your books taking you this week? I will be traveling to Italy and Oregon!! Here’s what I read and what I have planned for this week. Escapes Completed Spider Lake: A Northern Lakes Mystery (John Cabrelli Northern Lakes Mysteries) by Jeff Nania Release Date- December 2, 2019 Setting - Wisconsin My #FlashbackFriday Read - My Review  A Lighthouse Snapshot: a Secret Identity, Small Town Romance (The Turner Family of Bluestar Island) by Jennifer Faye Release Date - April 15, 2024 Setting - Massachusetts The Great Escapes Tour stops here tomorrow! Three Fudges and a Baby (A Candy-Coated Mystery) by Nancy Coco Release Date - March 26, 2024 Setting - Mackinac Island I will feature this book this week for Cozy Wednesday! Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off (A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery) by Darci Hannah Release Date - October 5, 2021 Setting - Michigan My #FlashbackFriday Read! Scheduled Escapes Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies: A Novel (The Vacation Mysteries) by Catherine Mack Release Date - April 30, 2024 Setting - Italy For Review Secrets and Scandals: The Gilman Gazette Cozy Mystery #1 by Piper Glendale Release Date - May 17, 2022 Setting - Oregon The Great Escapes Tour stops here next week for Cozy Wednesday! Think Twice (Myron Bolitar) by Harlan Coben Release Date - May 14, 2024 Setting - ?? For Review I hope to read a #FlashbackFriday book too! Future Escapes April 21 - 27, 2024 Please Share Your Reading Itinerary in the Comments below! Happy Reading!! Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent Read the full article

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Sunday Salon / Sunday Post - A Week in the Life of Dollycas – Weekly Rewind – New Arrivals

The Sunday Salon is a Facebook group that has become an informal week-in-review gathering place for bloggers. It is also a place to share our thoughts about things of a bookish nature. You can also link up weekly on Readerbuzz. The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimberly @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer ~ It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog, showcase books and things we have received, and share news about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead. HAPPY SUNDAY EVERYONE! We had a very entertaining evening last Saturday. Our granddaughter Natalie played Lady Rowena in her school's production of Once Upon A Mattress (The Princess and the Pea). They have been working hard for months for the three performances last weekend. We are beyond proud of her. Then, yesterday, 3 of my girls and I went to the bridal shower for my soon-to-be legal niece. She and my nephew have been dating for a long time and he finally proposed last May. We don't get together with that side of the family as much as we would like so it was so good to see everyone, at least the females. I can't wait for their big day when the men will be there too. Update on the Google ads - I seem to have gotten rid of the ads that were populating my posts. They should only be at the top and sidebars with the occasional popup. You may also notice a blue text box popping in from the right on certain posts. This is the experiment I agreed to so that the ads in the posts disappeared. It focuses on keywords like the author's name or the book's title. If you click on it, you will see posts related to the keywords on my blog or the internet. I am hoping this will be less intrusive. Please feel free to let me know your opinion in the comments.  How was your week? Weekly Rewind April 15 - 20, 2024 Monday - My Reading Itinerary Monday! – Week #16 – 2024 Tuesday - Off the Air: A Mystery by Christina Estes #Review Wednesday - Cozy Wednesday featuring Murder Marks the Page (A Tomes & Tea Mystery Series) by Karen Rose Smith #Review / #Giveaway @karenrosemith @KensingtonBooks Thursday - Murder at an Irish Chipper (An Irish Village Mystery) by Carlene O’Connor #Spotlight / #Giveaway @KensingtonBooks Friday - Spider Lake: A Northern Lakes Mystery by Jeff Nania #Review / #Giveaway Saturday - Special Guest – Daryl Wood Gerber – Author of A Twinkle of Trouble (A Fairy Garden Mystery) #AuthorInterview / #Giveaway @darylwoodgerber Louisiana Longshot is Free on Amazon. If you have Amazon Prime you can read No Strangers Here for Free. HAPPY READING!!  Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent   Read the full article

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Special Guest - Daryl Wood Gerber - Author of A Twinkle of Trouble (A Fairy Garden Mystery) #AuthorInterview / #Giveaway @darylwoodgerber

A Twinkle of Trouble (A Fairy Garden Mystery) by Daryl Wood Gerber I am delighted to welcome Daryl Wood Gerber back to Escape With Dollycas today! Hi Daryl, Please tell us a little bit about yourself. I’m Daryl Wood Gerber, author of mysteries and suspense and, yes, even a Christmas romance. I love my goldendoodle Sparky. I enjoy gardening, cooking, and golfing. I’ve been writing for a number of years. Before I became a writer, I was an actress and performed in  TV shows as well as on stage and in commercials. I love to read mysteries and thrillers, gentle romance, and some paranormal stories. What is the first book you remember reading? I read lots of Dick and Jane books, but I wasn’t much of a reader.  Then, when I got the measles, my mother gave me her set of Nancy Drew. I read all of them in one week.  Yes, a week! I couldn’t put them down. That’s when I fell in love with reading. But when I was given A Wrinkle in Time, I knew I was hooked forever on books. The story blew me away. What are you reading now? I’m reading a little bit of everything. I just finished Gigi Pandian’s Secret Staircase Mystery #2, The Raven Thief. It’s a closed-room mystery series. Gigi is masterful at that.  I also just finished the first by Marjorie McCown, Final Cut, set in Hollywood with a costumer as the protagonist. Marjorie was a costumer, so there’s some wonderful insider knowledge.  Next up is Ginger Bolton’s Double Grudge Donuts. This is the 8th in the Deputy Donuts series, and they are a tasty treat if you love cozy mysteries. What books have most inspired you? As I said above, I adored A Wrinkle in Time. I really enjoyed The Three Musketeers with all its action. I loved Hawaii by Michener. I devoured the James Bond spy novels.  And I read The Bourne Identity in one sitting. What a character! I love reading any books by Krista Davis. She is the queen of cozies in my humble opinion. I adore her Domestic Diva mysteries, and her Wagtail Mysteries (aka Paws and Claws Mysteries) are a must for anyone who loves animals. What made you decide you wanted to write mysteries? My first foray into writing was as a screenwriter, and I wanted to write thrillers, but when my husband and I moved across country for his career, I couldn’t pursue that dream from so far away, so I decided to write a thriller novel. I didn’t sell that and wrote another and another. Then a good friend suggested I try my hand at writing cozy mysteries. I boned up on current ones, having read most of Agatha Christie growing up, and realized I might have a voice for them. It turned out I did. An agent put me in touch with a publisher that wanted a cozy set in a cheese shop in Ohio. I got the first crack at submitting chapters for it, which secured me a deal. I wrote The Cheese Shop Mysteries under the pseudonym Avery Aames. Do you have a special place where you like to write? I write most often in my office.  It’s arranged nicely. I have a lot of space. But sometimes I’ll write in my backyard, sometimes at my dining table (when doing page edits by hand) and often at a coffee shop just because I have errands and can squeeze in an hour or two over a cup of coffee while tootling around town. I believe that writing is a “butt in the chair” activity. Sit and write. At some point you’ll have a complete book and that’s when the fun begins. I love to edit! Where do the ideas for your books come from? I watch people. I study them. I listen to conversations. Sometimes I just think “what if?”  There are so many what ifs going on around me at all times. What if someone killed that person who just cut in line at the grocery store? What if you walked into a house for sale and there was a dead body at the foot of the stairs?  You can see where this is going. I let my mind tap into the What If universe all the time. Is there anything about writing you find most challenging? The muddy middle can be daunting. It’s where you have to get all the clues and action to move the story forward but not allow it to be obvious or trite. I always start a story knowing where it begins and where it ends, but I’m not always sure what the middle scenes will be. I outline and that helps, but that is often quite fluid. What do you think makes a good story? The clues and suspects and secrets are the most important things that must be woven into a mystery. And pace. Each chapter should end on a page turner. It can be a question, a knock on the door, a body dropping. Something has to happen so the reader will press on. Which, of all your characters, do you think is the most like you? I think Jenna in the Cookbook Nook Mysteries is most like me. She came from the world of advertising. She suffered some sorrow in her twenties. She’s very sane and methodical. She’s caring. However, all of my protagonists are sane, caring people. So maybe they’re all me to some extent? On the other hand, I like to think none of them are like me. That makes me focus on their total character arc. What makes your books different from others out there in this genre? My Fairy Garden Mysteries are considered “paranormal” or magical.  There’s  no other sleuth fairy in mysteries that helps a human that I know of. I love the bond between Fiona and Courtney. My Cookbook Nook Mysteries are the only ones I know that are set in a culinary bookshop. My standalone thrillers, The Son’s Secret, Girl on the Run, and Day of Secrets are each unique as to the story. I would like to think that my pacing and voice are what make them solid reads. The Aspen Adams novels of suspense are set in the serene resort of Lake Tahoe, not your typical place to find murder and mayhem. What’s next on the horizon for you? I have a new series coming out in October called the Literary Dining Mysteries. I’ll be sharing more about this series as we draw nearer to the release. They are set in a charming fictional town outside Asheville, NC in the Blue Ridge Mountains and features twin hooks that I hope cozy readers can’t get enough of—classic books and delicious food Thank you, Daryl, for visiting today. ____ Keep reading for more info about Daryl and her new book!   About A Twinkle of Trouble A Twinkle of Trouble (A Fairy Garden Mystery) Cozy Mystery 5th in Series Setting - California Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington Cozies (April 23, 2024) Paperback ‏ : ‎ 304 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496744934 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496744937 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CFGF36NM Carmel-by-the-Sea garden shop owner Courtney Kelly sees things others can’t—like fairies, and hidden motives for murder . . . Courtney is delighted when her tiny friend Fiona returns from the fairy realm, appearing at the base of a Cypress tree. When her Ragdoll cat, Pixie, emerges from her own portal—aka the cat door—the three set off for a busy day. Busier than usual, since Courtney has rented a small plot of land at the Flower Farm, where she hopes to grow her own supplies for her fairy-garden business. Plus, the annual Summer Blooms Festival is coming up, and Courtney has booked a booth . . . But the murder of Courtney’s friend, Genevieve, casts a pall over the festival. Ever since Genevieve sold her floral business, she’d been building a career as an influencer. She was perennially opinionated—but in her new role she’d become surprisingly vicious, dissing local entrepreneurs with nasty posts and unwarranted bad reviews. That’s landed a couple of Courtney’s other friends on the suspect list—including Flower Farm owner Daphne Flores. And when a second victim is discovered, seeds of doubt about Daphne’s innocence sprout in Courtney’s mind. With only a germ of a clue, Courtney will have to overturn every rock to get the dirt on the real killer . . . More About Daryl Wood Gerber Agatha Award-winning author Daryl Wood Gerber is best known for her nationally bestselling mysteries, including the Fairy Garden Mysteries and Cookbook Nook Mysteries. As Avery Aames, she penned the popular Cheese Shop Mysteries. In addition, Daryl writes suspense including the well received The Son’s Secret, Girl on the Run, and the popular Aspen Adams series. Recently Daryl, who loves a challenge, published a Christmas romance, Hope for the Holidays. Fun Tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in “Murder, She Wrote.” She loves to cook, garden, read, and walk her frisky Goldendoodle. Also, she has been known to jump out of a perfectly good airplane. You can learn more on her website: https://darylwoodgerber.com Author Links WEBSITE    FACEBOOK       BOOKBUB      YOUTUBE    INSTAGRAM     PINTEREST     GOODREADS     TIKTOK    AMAZON    NEWSLETTER Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N – Kobo – Bookshop – The Rest of the Series Coming Soon from Daryl Wood Gerber Also by Daryl Wood Gerber The Cookbook Nook Cozy Mysteries Find more books by Daryl Wood Gerber here. Click on the covers for more information or to order by Amazon. TOUR PARTICIPANTS - Please visit all the stops.  April 15 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT April 15 – Teatime and Books – SPOTLIGHT April 16 – Mystery, Thrillers, and Suspense – SPOTLIGHT April 16 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW April 16 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW April 17 – Christy's Cozy Corners – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST April 17 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT April 18 – Celticlady's Reviews – RECIPE April 18 – The Mystery Section – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT April 18 – Angel's Book Nook – SPOTLIGHT April 19 – View from the Birdhouse – REVIEW April 19 – Sapphyria's Book Reviews – REVIEW April 20 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW April 20 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT WITH EXCERPT April 20 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – AUTHOR INTERVIEW April 21 – Melina's Book Blog - REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW  April 21 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW a Rafflecopter giveaway Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today! Want to Book a Tour? Click Here Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent Read the full article

[dollycas]

Spider Lake: A Northern Lakes Mystery by Jeff Nania #Review / #Giveaway

On Flashback Fridays I will share with you the books I was not able to review when they were first released that have been screaming at me from my To-Be-Read bookshelf. Spider Lake: A Northern Lakes Mystery Traditional Mystery 2nd in Series Setting - Wisconsin Publisher ‏ : ‎ Feet Wet Writing (December 2, 2019) Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 298 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1736337319 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1736337318 Paperback ‏ : ‎ 292 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1960681079 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1960681072 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08162LD23 A missing federal agent, suitcases full of cash, a secluded cabin in the woods. Spider Lake is no longer the peaceful retreat John Cabrelli needs to recover from gunshot wounds and start a new life. Knowing Cabrelli is a former law enforcement officer, the new chief of police recruits him to help untangle a string of strange events in the little town of Musky Falls. Cabrelli and a colorful team of local residents land in the center of a fast-paced action thriller with a surprise ending that’s sure to make your head spin. Dollycas's Thoughts We are back in Musky Falls with former Madison cop John Cabrelli. He is still recovering from the gunshot wounds he suffered in Book 1, Figure Eight. There are many ramifications to what happened in that book including some crimes still under investigation. The new police chief asks for John's help as he tries to wrap up all the loose ends and new crimes that may still arise. Soon several Musky Falls locals are involved and John learns how much Spider Lake, the quiet restful place of his youth, has changed, and not for the good. ____ John Cabrelli is a flawed human being and he knows it. A mistake made on the job turned him into a different man. He is less confident, has nightmares, second-guesses himself, and is unsure of the path his life is supposed to take. Right now he just wants to relax at the cabin on Spider Lake that he inherited from his Uncle Nick, but he now knows his uncle's death was murder and he has to find the killer before he will be able to have any peace. The author has surrounded his main character with interesting friends, colleagues, and residents of the small Wisconsin town. They are all developing naturally and the dialogue rings true to me. I enjoy how Mr. Nania brings the beauty of The Northwoods of Wisconsin alive. Fishing on Spider Lake or just sitting on the dock with a cup of coffee sounds delightful. Sadly it seems criminals find the place delightful too. The mystery has a slow build as the investigations develop and more clues fall into place. I got caught up in the story because it wasn't just about trying to find the killer. We observed John's daily life, enjoying the lake, trying to figure out the women in his life, and welcoming a group of student bird watchers trying to document the rare Kirtland Warbler. That being said all those things were surrounded by events that drove the investigation forward by the chief of police, the sheriff, John, and another civilian because other than themselves, they trusted no one. The suspense became intense when a request to an old friend blew open the case in a huge way. Suddenly I was unable to put this book down. It grabbed me and I stayed up late to finish the book. An exciting ending had me on the edge of my seat. An epilogue tells us the aftermath and sets up readers for the next book. I had purchased this series for my husband and he loved it and had been after me to read them. I am so happy that I listened to him. Figure Eight was a compelling read and I couldn't wait to read Spider Lake and now I have devoured that. I have Bough Cutter screaming at me from my TBR stack. I hope to read and review it soon.  Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent   About the Author Jeff Nania is a former law enforcement officer, writer, conservationist, and biofuel creator. He is the best-selling author of three fiction books, the award-winning Figure Eight (2019), Spider Lake (2020), and Bough Cutter (2021) in his Northern Lakes Mystery series published by Little Creek Press. His narrative non-fiction writing has appeared in Wisconsin Outdoor News, Double Gun Journal, The Outlook, and other publications. Jeff was born and raised in Wisconsin. His family settled in Madison's storied Greenbush neighborhood. His father often loaded Jeff, his brothers, and a couple of dogs into an old jeep station wagon and set out for outdoor adventures. These experiences were foundational for developing a sense of community, a passion for outdoor traditions, and a love of our natural resources. Jeff has been recognized locally, statewide, and nationally. Outdoor Life Magazine named him as one of the nation's 25 most influential conservationists, and he received the National Wetlands Award for his wetland restoration work. The Wisconsin Senate commended Jeff with a Joint Resolution for his work with wetlands, education, and as a non-partisan advisor on natural resources. Now a full-time novelist, Jeff spends as much time as possible exploring outdoor Wisconsin with his friends and family. Website - Facebook - X - Instagram  I am giving away 1 Kindle Copy of Spider Lake! The contest is open to anyone over 18 years old. Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find something you like here and become a follower. Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow. Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Following My Facebook Fan Page. Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries. Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries. If you share the giveaway on Threads, X, or Facebook or anywhere you will receive 5 Bonus Entries For Each Link. The  Contest Will End May 3, at 11:59 PM CST The Winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org The Winner Will Be Notified By Email and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar. Click Here For Entry Form *Amazon Purchase Read the full article

[dollycas]

Murder at an Irish Chipper (An Irish Village Mystery) by Carlene O'Connor #Spotlight / #Giveaway @KensingtonBooks

It is my pleasure to shine the Spotlight on Murder at an Irish Chipper by Carlene O'Connor today! Murder at an Irish Chipper (An Irish Village Mystery) Cozy Mystery 10th in Series Setting - Ireland Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington Cozies (February 20, 2024) Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 304 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496744446 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496744449 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C6FWWWW3 Audio ASIN : B0CNKXC4WG Fans of M.C. Beaton and Rhys Bowen, prepare for a delectable page-turner that mixes the charm of the Emerald Isle with the irresistible allure of a classic cozy whodunit. Siobhán and Macdara Flannery's plans for a romantic honeymoon by the sea crumble like battered cod when they discover a dead body in the local fish and chip shop. This charming village harbors secrets beneath its culinary delights, but even a crafty killer is no match for these cunning sleuths. Siobhán’s brother Eoin’s new family restaurant, The O’Sullivan Six, is so close to opening—but waiting on the necessary permits plus the heat of July in the village of Kilbane in County Cork is driving everyone a bit mad. Macdara Flannery comes to the rescue with a plan—take a holiday by the sea and stuff themselves with fish and chips to support the struggling business of the aptly named Mrs. Chipper. But when they arrive, a crowd is gathered in front of the closed shop: a local fisherman with a fresh cod delivery, a food critic, Mrs. Chipper’s ex-husband who’s opening a competing fish and chips shop directly across the street, and a repairman to fix the vent for the deep fryer. With Siobhán and Macdara as witnesses, a local handyman gets the locked door open, only to find the proprietor lying dead and covered in flour at the base of a ladder, its rungs coated in slippery fat. Clearly, this was not an accidental tragedy . . . Even as the local garda take over the murder investigation, Siobhán and Macdara can’t help themselves from placing their long-delayed honeymoon on hold—at least until they can help apprehend an elusive killer. About the Author Carlene O’Connor is the USA Today bestselling author of the acclaimed Irish Village Mysteries, the County Kerry Novels, and the Home to Ireland Mysteries. Born into a long line of Irish storytellers, her great-grandmother emigrated from Ireland filled with tales in 1897 and the stories have been flowing ever since. Of all the places she’s wandered across the pond, she fell most in love with a walled town in County Limerick and was inspired to create the town of Kilbane, County Cork, the setting of her Irish Village Mystery series. She is a member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, and currently divides her time between New Mexico and the Emerald Isle. Please visit her online at CarleneOConnor.net. The Rest of the Series Also written by Carlene O'Connor I am giving away an ARC review copy! The contest is open to anyone over 18 years old with a US or Canadian mailing address. Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find something you like here and become a follower. Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow. Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Following My Facebook Fan Page. Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries. Follow Kensington Books on Twitter for 2 Bonus Entries! Follow Kensington Publishing on Facebook for 2 Bonus Entries! Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries. If you share the giveaway on Threads, X, or Facebook or anywhere you will receive 5 Bonus Entries For Each Link. The  Contest Will End May 2, 2024, at 11:59 PM CST The Winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org The Winner Will Be Notified By Email and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar. Click Here For Entry Form Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent   Read the full article

[dollycas]

Cozy Wednesday featuring Murder Marks the Page (A Tomes & Tea Mystery Series) by Karen Rose Smith #Review / #Giveaway @karenrosemith @KensingtonBooks

Welcome to Cozy Wednesday! I am happy to share my thoughts about Murder Marks the Page today! Murder Marks the Page (A Tomes & Tea Mystery Series) Cozy Mystery 1st in Series Setting - New York Publisher ‏ : ‎ Kensington Cozies (March 26, 2024) Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 272 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1496747038 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1496747037 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C9W41D6H The first in a new series spun off from the Daisy's Tea Garden Mysteries, Daisy’s daughter Jazzi Swanson has opened her own book and tea shop, providing a variety of literature and flavored beverages for a rural New York community. But Jazzi has not only inherited her mother’s gift for brewing tasty drinks—she also has a nose for sniffing out murder. New York State’s Belltower Landing is a lakeside resort town where tourists spend their summer days boating, floating, and paddle-boarding on the water. It’s also the perfect place to cuddle up with a good book and enjoy a cup of tea, courtesy of Tomes & Tea. Owned and operated by Jazzi and her best friend Dawn Fernsby, the book bar is beloved by vacationers and locals alike, but browsers grabbing brews in the off season aren’t enough to help them make ends meet. Between brainstorming social media publicity ideas for the shop and fending off flirtatious men she has no interest in or time for, Jazzi befriends a woman named Brie who has recently made contact with her biological father. As an adopted child herself, Jazzi is more than happy to give Brie emotional support, especially as her wealthy father’s wife and children see her as a threat. But Brie is also looking to start a family of her own. Unfortunately, all the potential princes she’s met through a dating app turn out to be frogs. Then, when Brie is found murdered, Jazzi finds herself playing detective. With a list of suspects ranging from jealous half-siblings to less-than-suitable suitors, Jazzi may need to consult some of her shop’s bestselling mysteries to help her uncover a killer . . . Dollycas's Thoughts In this spinoff of the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series, we find Jazzie has completed college and has opened a book and tea shop, Tomes & Tea with her best friend Dawn Fernsby in Belltower Landing, New York. Tourists flock to the town and spend summers there but Jazzi and Dawn need to figure out how to keep their shop profitable year-round. Their friend, Delaney has a friend, Brie, who has just made contact with her biological father but she has a lot of questions. Knowing Jazzi and Dawn were both adopted she asks them to talk to Brie. Jazzi quickly becomes friends with Brie and agrees to help her in any way she can. Brie mainly looked for her birth father because she was ready to settle down and start a family and wanted to know her history. She had been using a dating app and has gone on several dates but she has discarded them all. And while her dad is interested in having her in his life, his wife and their children have very different feelings. When Brie is killed, Jazzi feels the need to investigate. The men Brie had dated and her half-siblings are her main suspects. She had witnessed her mother getting involved in several murder cases and now she has one of her own to solve. Will Jazzi find the killer? Will she live to tell the tale? ______ Jazzi and Dawn make a good team and they have taken a huge chance in opening up Tomes & Tea. They met in college in a group for people who had been adopted. The group helped them navigate their feelings about their birth parents and answered other questions they had about searching for them. Jazzi has found her birth mom and they have a relationship. Jazzi was also very close to her adoptive mom. It now seems like those relationships are strained but readers aren't given any details. We know she is very independent and after suffering a bad breakup she has no interest in dating. As this is the first book in this series, and some years have passed from where the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series left off we need to give the author time to develop this new Jazzi, Dawn, and the other core characters in this series. There is a lot of potential there. The book and tea shop is a wonderful theme for a cozy mystery series. I loved the brainstorming about bringing in more business and building a year-round customer base. Jazzi and Dawn's friends and book club members came up with great ideas. The events they held were fun and created a buzz about the shop. The mystery was well-plotted and an interesting twist gave Jazzi the perfect reason to get involved but she is a reluctant sleuth. She doesn't want to follow in her mother's footsteps. Detective Milford urges her to stay out of his case, but she thinks he needs help. She didn't think he was questioning any of her top suspects and he was working on several other cases. She has met a lot of people opening her business and she does have some admirable observation skills. But while those skills helped her put some important pieces of the puzzle together, they also got her into trouble. I really enjoyed the showdown and that Jazzie contacted her mother afterward and shared harrowing the experience. It is always fun when a cozy mystery protagonist has pets. Early in the story, Jazzi finds a kitten behind the shop and a friend finds its sibling and brings it to Jazzi and Dawn. They quickly make themselves right at home - a male named Zander, and a female Freya. Murder Marks the Spot has given this series a strong start.  I enjoy this author's writing style and I am excited for this series to continue so I can get to know these characters better. Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent About the Author Karen Rose Smith is the author of the Daisy’s Tea Garden Mysteries, the Tome & Tea Mysteries, and the Caprice De Luca home-staging mysteries. Married to her college sweetheart, Karen has convinced her husband that felines can make purr-fect housemates. They share their home in the Susquehanna Valley of Pennsylvania with their three rescued cats. You can find her on Facebook at KarenRoseSmithBooks and on Twitter @karenrosemith.  Find out more about her mysteries at https://www.karenrosesmithmysteries.com. Also written by Karen Rose Smith Click on the covers for more info or to purchase. Thanks to the publisher I have 1 ARC copy of Murder Marks the Page to give away! The contest is open to anyone over 18 years old with a US or Canadian mailing address. Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find something you like here and become a follower. Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow. Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Following My Facebook Fan Page. Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries. Follow Kensington Books on Twitter for 2 Bonus Entries! Follow Kensington Publishing on Facebook for 2 Bonus Entries! Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries. If you share the giveaway on Twitter or Facebook or anywhere you will receive 5 Bonus Entries For Each Link. The contest Will End May 1, 2024, at 11:59 PM CST The winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org The Winner Will Be Notified By Email and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar. Click Here For The Entry Form Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”   Read the full article

[dollycas]

Off the Air: A Mystery by Christina Estes #Review

Off the Air: A Mystery Traditional Mystery Setting - Arizona Publisher ‏ : ‎ Minotaur Books (March 26, 2024) Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 320 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1250863856 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1250863850 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C1X8NM47 Equal parts thought-provoking and entertaining, Off the Air introduces Jolene Garcia in Emmy Award-winning reporter Christina Estes's Tony Hillerman Prize-winning debut. Jolene Garcia is a local TV reporter in Phoenix, Arizona, splitting her time between covering general assignments—anything from a monsoon storm to a newborn giraffe at the zoo—and special projects. Stories that take more time to research and produce. Stories that Jolene wants to tell. When word gets out about a death at a radio station, Jolene and other journalists swarm the scene, intent on reporting the facts first. The body is soon identified as Larry Lemmon, a controversial talk show host, who died under suspicious circumstances. Jolene conducted his final interview, giving her and her station an advantage. But not for long. As the story heats up, so does the competition. Jolene is determined to solve this murder. It’s an investigation that could make or break her career—if it doesn't break her first. Dollycas's Thoughts  Local TV reporter Jolene Garcia covers a wide variety of assignments. Recently she landed an interview with controversial conservative radio talk show host Larry Lemmon. It turns out to be his final interview because he has now died under "suspicious circumstances" during his show. Jolene and her station think she will get the inside scoop because of that interview but another reporter seems always to be one step ahead of her. Jolene's main source refuses to give her anything on the record and her boss is turning up the heat so she decides to make her own scoop by solving the case herself. That works as long as she doesn't become the next victim. ____ Christina Estes, an award-winning reporter herself is writing what she knows. News reporting has been changing and her protagonist's station seems to finally getting on board with where people are getting their news. It's all about tweets, clicks, shares, and "sexy" stories and the competition to do it all first, sometimes even when you don't have the facts. The mystery is not a typical whodunit. Reporter Jolene Garcia is chasing a story, not a killer, at least at first. This made the story drag in places and get bogged down with things that weren't pertinent to the mystery. I have never been to Arizona so some of the information was interesting but I wanted more focus on the matters at hand. There were a few twists but Jolene was really clueless when she came eye-to-eye with the killer setting up an exciting showdown. I will admit the person wasn't on my radar either, but the story was written to keep everyone in the dark until the killer gave his summation. After hearing it I was sympathetic to his reasoning but couldn't defend his actions. The story touches on several themes/subjects throughout including politics. I am sure the victim had a certain red hat. I was surprised to get to the end of the book to find a "Content Advisory" "This story contains references to" with the following list in alphabetical order. - Ageisms - Animal Cruelty - Child Neglect - Classism - Homelessness - Racism - Sexism - Sexual Coercion - Substance Abuse. I believe this "Advisory" should have been at the beginning of the book, not at the end. Off the Air was an entertaining story focusing more on the cutthroat world of journalism than a murder mystery. I understand why the book won the Tony Hillerman Award for a mystery set in the southwestern United States by a first-time author. There are several references to real places in Phoenix and information about the Phoenix Indian School and other local history. I do believe this author has promise and would be open to reading her next effort, maybe in a different genre or more mystery-focused. Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent About the Author  CHRISTINA ESTES is an award-winning reporter who has spent more than 20 years covering crime, public policy, and business in Phoenix, Arizona. Her reporting has been heard on National Public Radio (NPR) and appeared in the Arizona Republic, Arizona Business Gazette, and Phoenix Business Journal. Christina’s career inspired Off the Air, which won the Tony Hillerman Prize for Best First Mystery Set in the Southwest. Author Links Website - Facebook - Twitter/X - Instagram - GoodReads Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read the full article

[dollycas]

My Reading Itinerary Monday! – Week #16 – 2024

Welcome to My Reading Itinerary Monday!  Where are your books taking you this week? I will be traveling to Massachusetts with an extended stay in Michigan!! Here’s what I read and what I have planned for this week. Escapes Completed Peril in Pink (Hudson Valley B&B Mysteries) by Sydney Leigh Release Date - March 19, 2024 Setting - New York My Review  Off the Air: A Mystery by Christina Estes Release Date - March 26, 2024 Setting - Arizona My Review will be up tomorrow! Murder Marks the Page (A Tomes & Tea Mystery Series) by Karen Rose Smith Release Date - March 26, 2024 Setting - New York I will feature this book this week on Cozy Wednesday! Currently Reading For some reason, my eyes are slamming earlier lately. I need to get my reading mojo back :-D Spider Lake: A Northern Lakes Mystery (John Cabrelli Northern Lakes Mysteries) by Jeff Nania Release Date- December 2, 2019 Setting - Wisconsin My #FlashbackFriday Read Scheduled Escapes A Lighthouse Snapshot: a Secret Identity, Small Town Romance (The Turner Family of Bluestar Island) by Jennifer Faye Release Date - April 15, 2024 Setting - Massachusetts The Great Escapes Tour stops here next Tuesday! Three Fudges and a Baby (A Candy-Coated Mystery) by Nancy Coco Release Date - March 26, 2024 Setting - Mackinac Island I will feature this book next week for Cozy Wednesday! Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off (A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery) by Darci Hannah Release Date - October 5, 2021 Setting - Michigan My #FlashbackFriday Read! I have wanted to get back to this series since I turned the final page of book 1. Future Escapes April 14 - 20, 2024 Please Share Your Reading Itinerary in the Comments below! Happy Reading!! Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent Read the full article