Julianna Deering {Writer Wednesday}

A little bit about Julianna...

Julianna Deering has always been an avid reader and a lover of storytelling, whether on the page, the screen or the stage. This, along with her keen interest in history and her Christian faith, shows in her tales of love, forgiveness and triumph over adversity. A fifth-generation Texan, she makes her home north of Dallas with three spoiled cats and, when not writing, spends her free time quilting, cross stitching and watching NHL hockey. Her series of Drew Farthering mysteries set in 1930s England debuted from Bethany House with Rules of Murder (2013) and is followed by Death by the Book and Murder at the Mikado (2014), Dressed for Death (2016), Murder on the Moor (2017) and Death at Thorburn Hall (Coming Fall 2017). Also, as DeAnna Julie Dodson, she has written a trilogy of medieval romances (In Honor Bound, By Love Redeemed and To Grace Surrendered) and six contemporary mysteries for Annie’s Fiction. She is represented by Wendy Lawton of the Books & Such Literary Agency (www.booksandsuch.biz).

Connect with Julianna...

On the web:
www.juliannadeering.com
www.deannajuliedodson.com
On Facebook:
https://business.facebook.com/AuthorJuliannaDeering/
https://www.facebook.com/julie.dodson.9659
On Twitter: @DeAnnaJulDodson
On Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6565151.Julianna_Deering
Purchase: Murder on the Moor 

Get to know Julianna...

You and Writing

Tell us a little bit about you and writing... 
I started writing because I was bored in one of my accounting classes in college. I’ve always loved to read, but I never saw myself as a writer. I certainly never thought I’d be published. Still, I always loved drama and stories. I think I’m a wannabe director, but since paper and pencil are so much cheaper than costumes and sets and actors, I ended up writing novels. Why do I keep writing? It’s just what I do. I can’t imagine not working on something, even if it’s just a fun takeoff on a classic book or movie. I absolutely love having finished a project, especially when I hold a “real” book in my hands. Murder on the Moor is my fourteenth published book, and it just never gets old.

Your Writing

Tell us a little bit about your book....

Why did you write it?  
I wrote Murder on the Moor to continue Drew and Madeline’s sleuthing adventures. Each book in this series has a literary inspiration, and for this one I used the moody and atmospheric works of the Brontes with just a touch of Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles for spice.

Do you have a favorite character in this work? If so, why?
I love Drew, Madeline and Nick the very best in the series. But for this particular book, I have to admit that Rhys Delwyn, the Welsh gamekeeper, is my favorite. It doesn’t hurt that he just happens to look like Aidan Turner in Poldark either. Of course, that doesn’t mean he’s not a murderer. Just sayin’.

What is one take-away from your book that you hope readers identify with?
One of the major themes of the book is that only God knows what’s inside a person’s heart. No matter how things look, we can’t see what’s really inside. Drew has to be especially careful this time out and not jump to conclusions based on his own prejudices.

What was a challenge you faced while writing it?
I wanted very much to get the sound and the feel and the look of the Yorkshire moor right for this book. I was fortunate to have someone who lives in that part of the world describe for me the little things that don’t come up in the usual descriptions in books or on websites. And she sent me some very helpful photos that added a whole new dimension to the plot. I am forever grateful for her help.

We're your characters easy to pin down or did you discover them along the way as you wrote the book?
When I start planning a story, the characters are just placeholders. I know what function I want each of them to serve (murderer, victim, innocent suspect, etc.), but it’s only as I write that I get to know them and really add the details that makes each of them unique.

What made you choose the setting for the book?
I don’t know how I could have a Bronte-inspired book without setting at least most of it on the moor, especially if I was going to add a spectral hound to the story.

What's the most random thing you had to Google for the story?
I was looking for an animal that might kill sheep out on the moor, and I found out that there are no wolves in England anymore. At least there weren’t in Drew’s time. I think they might be reintroducing them now.

What was one thing (or character) that surprised you while writing this book?
One of the characters is blind. I hadn’t planned on that, but it worked out really great for the story. They’re always throwing me little curve balls like that, and it makes for some interesting writing.

What’s your favorite snack while writing?
Chocolate, hands down. But not white chocolate.

Writing

Let’s talk about your writing life...

What’s your encouragement for younger writers aside from “keep writing”?
Don’t dismiss constructive criticism. That’s not to say a writer should make every change a reader mentions. It’s your book. You have the last say on what is in it. But don’t be so in love with each and every one of your words that you miss the opportunity to tell your story in the best way possible. (tweet this -quote abbreviated-) No one, no matter how talented or experienced, can see his own writing with the same eyes as a first-time reader. Listen. Listen, listen, listen. Then decide what changes will make your story stronger and still be true to the vision you have for it.

How many rejection letters did you get before being accepted by a publisher?
I was accepted on my third query, but that was a total surprise and a total miracle. I really never expected to be published at all.

Are you a Panster or Plotter?
I guess you could call me a hiker. I know where I’m starting and I know where I need to end up and I know a few major stops along the way. Other than that, I walk along and see what happens.

What does your writing process look like?
It seems to be different with every book. Sometimes I write from front to back. Sometimes I write the middle and then figure out what leads up to that and what happens afterward. Lately though I seem to have settled on using the fourteen plot points outlined in James Scott Bell’s excellent craft book, Write Your Novel from the Middle. It keeps me from having structural problems as I’m growing my plot.

Where do you find inspiration for your story/characters?
Everywhere. Everybody and everything has some kind of story. Wherever you are, you can look around you and play “what if.”

Do you listen to music when you write? If so, have a favorite artist or playlist to share?
I almost never listen to music when I write. If I do, it’s probably some sort of movie soundtrack or even water or rain sounds. Songs with words interfere with the words I need to be hearing in my head.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors for writing and/or publishing?
Read, read, read, especially in the genre you want to write. Read wonderfully written books, and you’ll know what good writing looks and sounds like. (tweet this) Then you’ll know what to aspire to.

Are there any books or resources you could recommend to younger writers looking to grow in their craft?
Just about anything by James Scott Bell, especially the aforementioned Write Your Novel from the Middle. He’s an excellent teacher and gets right to the point.

How do you balance your writing life with “real” life? Any tips or tricks to share?
I find it’s too easy to get distracted. It’s too easy to lose a day or a week by letting non-writing interests or problems steal my attention. Some of that is inevitable, of course, but if I’m going to meet my deadlines (and often I have several deadlines at once), I have to have a schedule. I make sure to build in some “life happens” time, but I do my best to stay on track. It’s amazing how the words add up over time.

You

All right, let’s keep things real: Flowers or chocolate? …Or books?
Flowers are too short lived and, while sending them is a sweet and thoughtful gesture, they’re just not my thing. You can’t go wrong with chocolate and books.

What are you currently reading?
I’ve just started The Captivating Lady Charlotte by Carolyn Miller. I’m not far into it yet, but I enjoyed her first book, The Elusive Miss Ellison, so much, I’m sure this one will be a delight, too.

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The Raven by Mike Nappa | Re:View

Nothing beats a sarcastic character. Really. Maybe I'm partial or maybe it's just Mike Nappa's writing style in regards to The Raven (the character, not the book in this case), but I love what he did in this second Coffee & Hill mystery/suspense series. 

I had a vague memory of reading the first part of this book at the end of Annabell Lee (book 1 in this series) and was excited to start this book. If life hadn't gotten in the way I think I would have finished it more quickly, but as it was, I finally turned to the end last night and found myself excited book 3 already!

I found The Raven's character by far my absolute favorite. Yes, the snark (as mentioned above) was a big factor but I think there was something honest and real about him that jumped off the page to me. He was almost supernaturally calm as a character (to me at least) but it didn't feel fake. It was more "this is how he really feels". As the book progresses we begin to see a lot more of his backstory but I'll just leave it at the fact that I really enjoyed his character.

Ah, *sigh*, things I want to say about Trudi and Sam. But they are things I won't say for fear of spoiling anything. What I will say is I'm liking the progression of the books and hoping that what I'm hoping happens isn't just hoping, but reality. (Yes, much hope). I enjoy their character's though and I will give a shout out to Mike (and/or his editor too) for his portrayal of Trudi's female mind. There were times when I found myself nodding and thinking - yes! as a woman, I have felt/thought this exact way. I'm impressed by his intuition with regards to the immensely complex feminine mind.

From Instagram: @createexploreread

Lastly, let's talk (and not talk) about the plot. It was well done, mostly fast-paced, and intriguing. Mike uses a very interesting technique where some chapters (all divided into POV's based on character) are backtracking after other chapters. I have mixed feelings on this. It created an interesting reality where you left off at one spot and then read from before that spot to "catch up" to present time. It also meant a lot of "this happened then this did etc." because a lot of it was in retrospect. It was well written and has a certain element of style to it as much as it aided in creating suspense in the story BUT it also took some suspense out because you already knew what was happening and then just got to see it from a different POV. Are you confused yet? Yeah...

All in all, I really enjoyed this book--more than Annabell Lee actually--and am confident in recommending it. I would call it more mystery than suspense/thriller though there are elements of action to it. I think the covers of this series make them seem darker than they are (not that I don't like the covers because I definitely do). So you don't have to feel the kind of "creepy tension" you do with other, more suspenseful books. There are moments of it, but it's milder (in my opinion).

My Rating: 4*
Purchase: The Raven 

Book Description
(from Amazon)

"A thrill ride into the stark territory between grace and the letter of the law."--Tosca Lee, New York Times bestselling author

As part of his regular street performance, a deception specialist who goes by the name The Raven picks his audience's pockets while they watch. It's harmless fun--until he decides to keep the spare wallet a city councilman doesn't seem to miss, hoping for a few extra bucks. When he finds not money but compromising photos of the councilman and his "personal assistants," The Raven hatches a plan to blackmail the man. However, he quickly finds himself in over his head with the Ukrainian Mafia and mired in a life-threatening plot code-named, "Nevermore."

Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues--and their complicated feelings for each other--to rescue The Raven and save hundreds of lives from a wildcard bent on revenge.

_______________

I received this book for free but was under no obligation to post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.

Sandra Orchard {Writer Wednesday}

A little bit about Sandra...

Sandra Orchard writes fast-paced, keep-you-guessing romantic suspense and mysteries with a dash of sweet romance. Her novels have garnered six Canadian Christian Writing Awards, a Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, a National Readers’ Choice Award, a HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, and a Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. In addition to her busy writing schedule, Sandra enjoys speaking at events and teaching writing workshops.

Connect with Sandra...

Website: www.SandraOrchard.com
Blog: www.SandraOrchard.com/blog
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/Goodreads_SandraO
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/SandraOrchard
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/AuthorSOrchard/
Purchase: Another Day Another Dali

Get to know Sandra...

You and Writing

I live in the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada with my husband of almost thirty years, and an energetic husky who frequently drags me out of my fictional worlds to walk in the real one. I also have four adorable grandchildren with whom I love to hang out. In fact, following a near fatal accident in late May, I put my writing on hold and spent all my time with them. But happily we are all home again now and the creative juices are flowing.

Your Writing

Tell us a little bit about your book. Why did you write it? Another Day, Another Dali is the second installment in my FBI art crime mystery series with special agent Serena Jones. When her grandmother asks Serena to investigate the switch of a valuable Salvador Dali painting, Serena hopes tracking down the original will also mean finally measuring up to Nana’s expectations. But when the evidence points to members of the owner’s own household—friends of her grandmother’s—it becomes increasingly clear that Serena won’t be winning any popularity contests.

To make matters worse, the Dali isn’t the only painting that’s fallen prey to the forgery-replacing thief, raising the specter of a sophisticated theft ring–one with links to dirty cops, an aspiring young artist, and the unsolved murder of Serena’s grandfather. The theft of a Matisse from a Venezuelan museum that went undetected for more than two years, because a forgery was hung in its place, was the inspiration for this story.

And those who read A Fool and His Monet will be happy to know that Serena’s zany aunt is still as eager as ever to help solve Serena’s cases, as are the two handsome men in Serena’s life…or so it would seem.

Do you have a favorite character in this work? If so, why?

A toddler with a contagious, dimpled smile, named Jed, who although he is only in one scene, is my favorite character in this book, because my grandson was his inspiration. At the time, he basically said one word—“uh”—but he said it with so many different inflections, you knew he meant it to mean different things. Serena just couldn’t decipher them. Nate fans will be happy to know he is great with Jed. And Serena’s foray into babysitting inspired this thought that all moms should appreciate:

What is one take-away from your book that you hope readers identify with?
In Another Day, Another Dali, Serena realizes her closely guarded secret has caused her to misinterpret her grandmother’s feelings toward her for years. Too often we see only what we expect to see in situations and in others. Sometimes it takes an appraiser’s objective perspective to recognize the forgery, whether in art or life. But identifying the forgery is only the beginning. As Serena discovers, getting to the truth requires a willingness to search, no matter how painful the outcome might be.

Is there a funny story associated with writing the book?
One night I woke up from the most bizarre dream. I was being chased by a giant zucchini. So…I decided to give the dream to Serena and include it in the novel, which made for some amusing asides in the pages that followed. Not to mention, the hilarious commentary my critique partner had on the matter.

What's the most random thing you had to Google for the story?
Obscure words that are funny to say. Serena has a neighbor who shares a word of the day and I like to keep them entertaining as well as relevant to the storyline. The one he shares the morning before Serena’s babysitting stint is particularly apropos.

Writing

Let’s talk about your writing life...

How long did you write before you got published?
I was offered my first contract almost six years to the day after beginning my first novel.

What’s your encouragement for younger writers aside from “keep writing”?
God can and will use your writing journey, long before you’re published, to teach and minister to others and to strengthen your own faith in ways you’d never imagined.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of the writing process?
Brainstorming new stories is my favorite part. Writing them is my least favorite part, except on the rare occasions when the story just flows effortlessly from my fingertips.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors for writing and/or publishing?
Don’t be in a hurry to get published or to self-publish. Take time to develop your craft.

Are there any books or resources you could recommend to younger writers looking to grow in their craft?
I have reviewed several books and listed many others that helped me get started, as well as compiled a list of blog posts I’ve written on various aspects of writing craft here: http://sandraorchard.com/extras/for-writers/

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You

In honor of the fall, what’s your favorite fall treat?
Pumpkin bread.

When you were a child, what did you dream of growing up to be?
A gymnast like Nadia Comaneci who scored perfect 10s in her routine in 1976 in the Olympics held in Montreal. I can still remember watching her on TV as an awestruck young girl.

Will you participate in National Novel Writing Month? If so, what’s your plan to keep your writing on track?
Nope. I tend to edit as I go along and strive to meet a word count goal each day. The size of the goal varies, depending on deadlines and other writing obligations, such as interviews like this.

What are you currently reading?
A yet-to-be published mystery in a series for which I’m writing an installment for a book club called Annie’s Attic.

Annabel Lee by Mike Nappa | RE:View

Annabell Lee is a mysterious adventure that stretches beyond categories to produce an intriguing read.

From the cover you get the feeling that this book is going to be creepy. I personally found it wasn't nearly as frightening as I thought it would be, but I did find it intriguing.

Annabell Lee has a flavor all its own. It reminded me of an amalgam of Ted Dekker, James Bond, Magnum P.I., and post military themes. I know, not the best description but it was definitely in a category all its own. I wanted there to be more suspenseful action, and yet there was definitely a high death-toll toward the end that was quite shocking but not necessarily in a bad "socking" way. That may sound bad, but I'm not opposed to some violence as long as it's not completely unnecessary. I suppose it's in the way that Mike writes that defines the book. It's descriptive but doesn't have as much tension in the writing as you'd expect. 

The characters were intriguing as well. In my mind they weren't your "run of the mill" main characters. You had Annabel who was only eleven but wise beyond her years, a protective German Shepperd (I include him in the characters because...why not?), The Mute (yep, just like it sounds), and then Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill. Talk about some interesting dynamics, especially between Trudi and Samuel. I see some interesting development possible with them - but I'll leave out the rest of my comments so as not to spoil anything.

I think, overall, I would say that Mike has something good going on here. Read the letter at the back of the book and you'll get a very interesting story indeed, but I can see people loving this book and people hating it. It's not traditional or typical and I think that's okay.

I would recommend this to fans of suspense and/or romantic suspense with a disclaimer that it's not your average suspense/romantic suspense book, so don't expect it to be. As I try to do, read with an open mind and you might just find something you love in Mike Nappa's writing.

My Rating: 4*
Purchase: Annabel Lee (A Coffee & Hill Novel)

Book Description
(from Amazon)

Fourteen miles east of Peachtree, Alabama, a secret is hidden. That secret's name is Annabel Lee Truckson, and even she doesn't know why her mysterious uncle has stowed her deep underground in a military-style bunker. He's left her with a few German words, a barely-controlled guard dog, and a single command: "Don't open that door for anybody, you got it? Not even me."

Above ground, a former Army sniper called The Mute and an enigmatic "Dr. Smith" know about the girl. As the race begins to find her, the tension builds. Who wants to set her free? Why does the other want to keep her captive forever? Who will reach her first?

Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill need to piece together the clues and stay alive long enough to retrieve the girl--before it's too late.

With its stunning writing and relentless pace, Annabel Lee will captivate readers from the first page. 

_______________

I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.

Catherine Stuart {Writer Wednesday}

A little bit about Catherine...

Catherine Stuart lives in Nebraska and has been a practicing counselor for the past fourteen years. She enjoys reading, writing, travel, and spending time with her family, friends, two shelties, and most of all her six beautiful grandchildren.
How to Connect with Catherine...

Website: www.crstuart.com 
Blog: http://www.crstuart.com/category/blog/
Find the book on Goodreads: Potluck: A Sleepy Haven Mystery
Purchase: Potluck: A Sleepy Haven Mystery 

Get to know Catherine Stuart

You and Writing

Tell us a little bit about yourself and writing...
 
I always enjoyed hearing stories when I was growing up and loved it when my parents read to us. I was “that girl” in elementary school who thought of her favorite books as “friends.” Over the years I wrote in secret diaries, and then graduated to journals. For many years, as I would think of story ideas I’d write them in notebooks. I don’t mean the digital ones of course, rather the good old cheap, spiral bound notebooks of various colors to capture these ideas. Potluck actually started in one of these notebooks, as I handwrote much of the story. I realize in this day and age that’s hard for many people to believe or understand. I’m not sure I understand this habit myself, except somehow I find comfort in writing the words out. At some point I do become thankful for the computer! I write because I really enjoy it and it’s one of the very few ways I can experience the same type of passion I did as a child. I relate this to the way gymnastics or dance made me feel. I’m long past those years!

Emilie here: I was "that girl" too! And you really can't replace the feeling of writing...though typing is so much easier *sigh*. I love that you're still as passionate about writing now as you were when you were a child!

Your Writing

Tell us a little bit about your book...

“Potluck” was born out of my interest in the idea that while some sins are obvious, others take place in the interior of the heart. I looked at scriptures connected to this and thought about how these deadly sins can easily sneak into a Christian heart.

My grandfather was a minister and I got to hear stories about the church and core group of church ladies. It was fun to create a fictitious group of church women. The ladies in “Potluck” are well-meaning and are growing, yet in every family there are conflicts and squabbles. The little foxes of sins in the heart can go into the henhouse of the church unnoticed and wreak havoc. The title and story involve a potluck supper and a death/possible murder. I wanted to explore the dynamics of the women as they suspect each other. One of the main characters is not a Christian, however is observing what she experiences when she helps her aunt with church events in order to solve the mystery. Her aunt is concerned about the church splitting over the possible murder, so together they attempt to find the truth. I had fun with the title, as most people have been to potluck suppers, so can probably picture the event. The deeper meaning is how luck may not have much of a role in life, although it may get more credit than it deserves. I hope that people can enjoy this on different levels of entertainment as well as relating and finding food for thought.

Do you have a favorite character in the book?
I love all the characters for various reasons, however if I had to choose one of my favorite characters I would pick Aunt Annie, since for me she is true to her values, while being kind of like a comfort food character. I’m also very attached to Renee, as she is on a journey of her own to find contentment and purpose in life.

What is one take away from your book that you hope readers identify with?
I hope that readers will identify with how important and key grace is for everyone, including themselves. If I could name one more, I also hope readers enjoy attempting to solve the mystery!

What was a challenge you faced while writing it?
I learned a lot about technology, while writing it. I found out that my editing skills need sharpened, and that I had to push through parts of the publishing process.

Emilie here: The story sounds like a lot of fun. Can't wait to read it! And I love that the focus (among other things) is grace. Isn't that so necessary in all of our lives? 

Writing

Let’s talk about your writing life...

How long did you write before you got published?
I started the story a few years ago, and got to know some of the characters. It became apparent that the season to write it completely was not at that time. Amazingly, I was able to find that notebook and get going again over a year ago. It took me from October 2014 to October 2015 to complete it start to finish including getting published. I chose to go through a self-publishing company that is part of Thomas Nelson Publishing. I went back and forth about going the traditional route, however decided to self-publish and never sent off the manuscript. I had a lot to learn, but when something is a passion you find a way to push through it.

What’s your encouragement for younger writers aside from “keep writing”?
I want to offer encouragement to writers who experience the passion of writing, however find the timing is off. It may be necessary to put it on the shelf for a while. When I was able to resume with writing more seriously I was thankful I’d kept what I’d written. It was like returning to old friends, and I enjoyed the process of getting them on their journey.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of the writing process?
My most favorite part of the writing process is the creative expression. I compared it earlier to dance or gymnastics, where you feel connected to it, as if it’s a part of you. My least favorite part of the writing process is editing. I learned how much I don’t know about the mechanical details, which are vital to a good story. I also firmly believe for myself, that editing is not my strength, and it is a whole professional category of its own. In traditional publishing that is taken care of, however an indie writer must find a way to forge through this. I believe it’s crucial that you get a professional if this is not your strength. Even then there will be a few unseen mistakes that slip through. Hopefully your readers will let you know if they see something, however your family probably will tell you. My family has been an amazing support!

Where do you find inspiration for your story/characters?
I find inspiration for my characters in everyday life, as well as in memories or even family stories. An example of a family story is one that my grandmother told. The wonderful core group of women were a very important part of the church family, however there’s no perfect family. A story came to mind that she’d shared with me and it seemed to be a perfect fit for my minister and his wife. My grandmother was told of a young woman in the church who had become pregnant out of wedlock. This was in the 1940’s when people were ostracized many times in those situations. My grandmother found the attitude of the ladies group was to judge and gossip about the girl. My wise grandmother decided to ask the ladies if they would give the girl a baby shower. It still moves me to think about how she saw this as an opportunity to reach out to the young woman, as well as the ladies. The ladies’ attitude was transformed and they gave her a wonderful baby-shower in love. My grandmother came up with this idea after praying and asking the Lord for direction. The women grew close to this young woman and her baby as a result. I love my Sleepy Haven church ladies, yet none of them get to be perfect either! Also, I pray before writing, as my faith is an integral part of my life including my writing.

Emilie here: Great advice, Catherine. I think sometimes we're afraid to put something aside until a later time - maybe it's that we need to be working on (or focusing on) something different. I'm with you on the editing though - I somehow have this idea that I wrote it how I wanted it and that's that. But sadly no...that's only the beginning!

 

 You

What’s one thing you are looking forward to in the New Year?
I look forward to reading!

What are your writing goals for this New Year?
I am planning to complete the next novel in the Sleepy Haven series.

What are you currently reading?
I just finished reading “Lie Down in Green Pastures,” by Debbie Viguie, which was a really fun mystery! I am currently reading “Seven Women,” by Eric Metaxas, which is so interesting and inspiring, and “Give Yourself a Break,” which is wonderful advice, by Kim Fredrickson and look forward to reading “Abednego,” by Jennifer Zartman.

Emilie here: Thanks again, Catherine! Loved the chance to get to know you better!

_____________________________________

::WINNER::

Terri Wangard was on the blog last week and we now have her winner of Friends and Enemies:

 

  Katie Morford

Congrats Katie! I'll be in touch :)

Bat Crazy by Carole Brown | New Novel News

Bat Crazy 
by Carole Brown

 
August 25, 2015
Story and Logic Media Group
Purchase: Bat Crazy


Monster Bats with red eyes that attack humans? Denton doesn’t think so and Alex hopes not, but who are they to quibble with the local gossip?

Transmission problems and a blown tire land Denton and Alex Davies right in the middle of a dilapidated, unfriendly town that’s welcoming no strangers, least of all nosy ones with a bent toward solving mysteries.

But with support from the town detective--an admirer of the Davies--and their own tenacious personalities, Denton and Alex aren’t easily scared off. Not when warnings in the form of painted bats show up on the porch of their rented cabin, not when the mayor threatens to run them out of town and not even when Denton finds the bones . . .

An ancient story, a bit of a map, a lost jewel and even a bat clan serve to provide the Davies and their sidekick, Taffy, the dog, their hardest case so far.

Get to know Carole...

What are the names of your pets?

One dog: Taffy, who looks like a Jack Russell. Showed up at our place and no one ever claimed her. At about the same time one of our horses died and the other one was grieving. When my husband and son came home that day, Taffy sat close to Shyenne. Whatever Taffy said to Shyenne we’ll never know, but from that day forward, Shyenne was fine! 
Outdoor cats: Tipper (tiny, touchy/grouchy and found by son #1 in a school building being torn down when she was a kitten), Simon, Sandy
One horse: Shyenne

What are you reading right now?

Mary Ellis’s Midnight on the Mississippi (a mystery!)
Renee Blare’s To Soar on Eagle’s Wings
Norma Gail’s Land of My Dreams

If you were stranded on an island what are three things you couldn’t live without?

My husband
My grandsons
My computer! (Yeah, I know: probably no internet, but I could still write my novels on it! Oh, I’d have to have hubby rig up some kind of electricity gadget (whatever!). :)

Cathy Elliott {Writer Wednesday} + GIVEAWAY

Get to know Cathy...

Cathy Elliott is a full-time writer in northern California whose cozy mysteries reflect her personal interests from quilting and antique collecting to playing her fiddle with friends. She also leads music at church and cherishes time with her grandchildren. Cathy’s other plot-twisting works include Medals in the Attic and A Stitch in Crime.

Connect with Cathy...

--> Website & Occasional Blog: www.cathyelliottbooks.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/10212726-cathy-elliott
Facebook: Author Cathy Elliott cathyelliottbooks.com
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Purchase: A Vase of Mistaken Identity

Author Interview | Cathy Elliott

You and Writing

Tell us a little bit about yourself: How did you start writing? What has kept you writing?
...Since high school, I wanted to be a writer, something I kept to myself. When my first book was published, a friend congratulated me, saying she knew I’d always wanted to write. What? Did I say that out loud?
 
...But it must have been obvious. I’d spent years reading books about writing, The Writer Magazine, taking an occasional writer class, attending author lectures, etc. Since I worked in a college library, all the new releases on the subject passed right by me. First. So, dedicating myself to the craft was my destiny. My happy ending.

...I keep writing because it gives me joy. Having books and articles published is the lovely by-product of the journey. But I write because I love to put those words on the page. And I love the writer community.

What was the hardest thing about publishing? The easiest?
...After having three books traditionally published, that is a still hard question to answer. It’s all hard and all delightful. Most folks dislike the waiting, especially these days when they can just skip sending out a proposal and hoping for a sale by self-publishing their own books. Typically, we don’t like to wait for an editor to take a look or make a decision. I think that is hardest for most folks – but easier for me because I don’t mind waiting. In fact, I rather like my time in the waiting room. That’s where expectation & anticipation live.

Your Writing

Do you have a favorite character in this book? If so, why?
...A Vase of Mistaken Identity is the first of two of my books about amateur sleuth, Thea James, and the small town of Larkindale. I love Thea. But I cannot help but favor her grandmother, Gram, a British war bride with her bumbling ways. She is always “accidentally” spilling out Thea’s secrets. It’s great fun! 

A Vase of Mistaken Identity

Murder in Larkindale?

Thea James, proprietress of James & Company Antique Emporium, never thought murder would come to her small, surviving Gold Rush town of Larkindale. But when the Larkindale Lamplight reports the discovery of a body during the renovation of Larkin Lake Resort, Thea is caught up in the mystery.

Her world is further frenzied when she acquires a vintage vase from the town’s only homeless person. Thea finds a puzzling list tucked inside with four names written in a faded scrawl: two childhood friends from a summer camp, her sister Rosie, and . . . herself!

When the first woman on the list ends up in a coma and another mysteriously disappears, Thea knows she must save herself and her sister from harm. Her attempt to eliminate the vicious threat on their lives propels Thea to places she never wanted to visit.

Will she discover the connection before tragedy strikes?

Writing

Where do you find inspiration for your story/characters? Are they based on real life or pure imagination or both?
...Most are a fictionalized combo of both – based on someone I know and also spun out of my imagination. Occasionally, a character may be based on pure fantasy, unlike anyone I’ve ever met. But usually, characters are reality-based with imaginary traits.

When you write, what is your overall intention with your stories?
...I so admire the high purpose of many books and struggled for a time to find one for mine, as well. Then I received a letter from one reader who’d been given my book to read in the hospital during a chemo drip. It had helped transport her to another place, away from something hard for a time. I decided that providing a little mental vacation amid a difficult day was a good enough reason to write.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors for writing and/or publishing?
...No matter what the path – traditional publishing or self-publishing or another way - I would encourage every author to write for excellence over publication. Let good writing be your goal. Write the book of your heart, take the time you need, set your standard high, and in the end, you’ll have something to be proud of, no matter the publication path.

You

Do you enjoy hot weather or cold better? 
...Hands down, cool weather. Maybe it’s getting older or something, but I never complain in the winter, even if it is a teeth-chattering, frigid day. I’m silent about rain, sleet, or snow. Low temps are always welcome. But June, July, and August, my mood revolves around the weather. Is today over 100 degrees? Is it humid? Oh, no! Sadly, I whine all summer long.

...Hey, that’s not a very good way to end, is it? Let me say my “heat impairment” has increased my empathy for others who suffer the same way. I can really relate! (Better?)

...Thanks, Emilie, for hosting me. I hope one of your readers will enjoy winning a copy of A Vase of Mistaken Identity, rereleased in January 2015, with a cheerful new cozy cover. I’m so pleased to give it life again!

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Thanks so much for visiting Thinking Thoughts today! I love that you mention the writer community as reasons you've continued writing. I just love the writer community as well and have met so many amazing friends (online and in person). Props to you for not minding the waiting time! I find I'm terribly impatient at times ;) And I love your answer to why you write - I think there is nothing better than transporting a reader elsewhere! Thanks again Cathy and readers, make sure you leave a comment to enter to win this deadly book - it's simply purrfect, don't you think? (Ok, sorry for the puns but I couldn't help it!)

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::WINNER::

It was awesome to have Mike on the blog last week sharing about Centralia. He graciously has offered 2 books for this giveaway which means 2 winners (of course). 

I'm excited to wish congratulations to...

Shane Werlinger & Kris Hughe

Please contact me using the form on the sidebar so we can get you your books!

The Inn at Ocean's Edge by Colleen Coble | RE:View

An extravagant hotel high up on cliffs overlooking the ocean. Secrets surrounding a missing year in Claire Dellamarie's life. The mysterious disappearance of Luke Rocco's mother. What is behind the intrigue surrounding Claire and her family? What will become of the memories that are starting to surface? Will Luke finally be able to discover what happen to his mother?

The Inn at Ocean's Edge by Colleen Coble had me wrapped up in curiosity from start to finish. The introduction to Claire's life is at once intriguing and frustrating. Why won't people tell Claire the truth? What is the truth? Why does the Hotel Tourmaline hold a special place in Claire's memory?

In addition to these questions, I was also interested in finding out Luke's story. What happened to his mother? Did it have something to do with Claire's disappearance?

I enjoyed Claire and Luke's characters. Claire is a very strong woman who is forced into situations where that strength is tested. Luke is also strong, but in a different, steady way. I enjoyed their connection in the book and the zing of romance sparked between them.

The only thing I would note is that I felt some of the scenes were a little too abrupt. I enjoyed the read, but at times I felt as if there was some awkwardness or quick closure where I wanted to know more. Such is the nature of a mystery/suspense though.

I definitely recommend this to fans of romantic suspense and mystery novels. Colleen will keep you guessing! In the back of my mind I drew parallels to Murder, She Wrote (probably because I just love that show) due to the location and mysterious nature of the plot, but of course it was missing Jessica Fletcher ;)

Rating: 4*
Purchase:  The Inn at Ocean's Edge (Sunset Cove Novel)



Also, check out this awesome Kindle Fire Giveaway hosted by LitFuse for The Inn at Ocean's Edge!

To enter, click HERE.





Book Description

Claire's visit to a luxury hotel in Maine awakens repressed memories, threatening all she holds dear.

In 1989, Claire Dellamare disappeared from her own fourth birthday party at the Hotel Tourmaline on the island of Folly Shoals, Maine. She showed up a year later at the same hotel, with a note pinned to her dress but no explanation. Nobody knows where Claire spent that year---and until now, Claire didn't even know she had ever been missing.

But when Claire returns to the Hotel Tourmaline for a business meeting with her CEO father, disturbing memories begin to surface . . . despite her parents' best efforts to keep them forgotten.

Luke Rocco lost his mother under equally mysterious circumstances---at the same time Claire disappeared. After a chance encounter reveals the unlikely link between them, Claire and Luke set out together to uncover the truth about what happened that fateful year.

With flashbacks swimming just beneath her consciousness and a murderer threatening her safety, Claire's very life depends on unscrambling her past . . . even if her family refuses to acknowledge it. Someone-maybe everyone-is hiding something from Claire Dellamare, and it will cost her everything to drag the truth out into the light.

____________________

I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.

Cathy Elliott & Jessica Keller | New Novel News + GIVEAWAY

A Vase of Mistaken Identity
by Cathy Elliott

Published February 2015
Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Purchase: A Vase of Mistaken Identity

Murder in Larkindale?

Thea James, proprietress of James & Company Antique Emporium, never thought murder would come to her small, surviving Gold Rush town of Larkindale. But when the Larkindale Lamplight reports the discovery of a body during the renovation of Larkin Lake Resort, Thea is caught up in the mystery.

Her world is further frenzied when she acquires a vintage vase from the town’s only homeless person. Thea finds a puzzling list tucked inside with four names written in a faded scrawl: two childhood friends from a summer camp, her sister Rosie, and . . . her own name!

When the first woman on the list ends up in a coma and another mysteriously disappears, Thea knows she must save herself and her sister from harm. Her attempt to eliminate the vicious threat on their lives propels Thea to places she never wanted to visit.

Will she discover the connection before tragedy strikes?

Get to know Cathy...

Cathy is a full-time writer in northern California whose cozy mysteries reflect her personal interests from quilting and antique collecting to playing her fiddle with friends. She also leads music at church and cherishes time with her grandchildren. Cathy’s other plot-twisting works include Medals in the Attic and A Stitch in Crime.
Find her on her Website & Occasional Blog, Goodreads, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

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The Fireman's Secret
by Jessica Keller

Published February 1, 2015
Love Inspired

Purchase:The Fireman's Secret (Goose Harbor)  

After the fire that injured her and burned down Goose Harbor's only church fourteen years ago, Shelby Beck is planning to rebuild—the structure and her life. But her wounds have always caused her to keep men at a distance. When Joel Palermo returns to town as a fireman and is assigned to help Shelby raise funds for the new construction, she's surprised at how easy it is to get close to her brother's old friend. Could he be the man she'll finally trust enough to let in? Or will the bond they've built go up in flames, when Joel's own scars are revealed?

Get to know Jessica...

If you were a superhero, what would be your super power?
Can I be the Great Cookie Caper? Because having the power to just make cookies appear out of thin air would really be awesome. And coffee. Hmm. Let me rethink this. Yes, the Great Cookie Caper who has the power to make cookies and coffee appear. I feel like that would solve a lot of problems. Like a crime is happening? Okay, I’ll show up and offer them cookies and coffee and have everyone sit down and talk out their problems. That could work, right? And I’d be a dream for a writer on a deadline. Slumping at your desk at midnight trying to work through that muddle of a middle? No worries. I’ll show up with refreshments.

What are you reading right now?
I’m knee deep wading into Serena Chase’s The Ryn, which is the first book in her Eyes of E’veria series (and it is—in a word—amazing). It’s a young adult epic fantasy that has fairytale elements AND pirates. Need I say more? I was sold when I heard: pirates.

Which of your characters do you secretly have a crush on?
I have serious feelings for the wonderful Michael Pace who is the hero of my young adult fantasy series (TimeShifters). He has a tortured past and yet he’s still quick to smile and make a joke (I’m so sick of the broody, moody guys with tortured pasts that have filled young adult fiction in the last few years). His losses and experiences have made him thoughtful, and he is good at reading what other people need. Michael is selfless when it comes to taking care of others, sometimes to a fault. He just makes me sigh. And I want to give him a great big hug and make him brownies and promise him all his sacrifices will have been worth it in the end.
Connect with Jessica on her Website & Blog, Facebook Page, Twitter, Pinterest, and join Jessica’s Newsletter.

Enter to win a copy of A Vase of Mistaken Identity or The Fireman's Secret! To enter, leave a comment below and mention which book (or author) you are entering for. If you're interested in both then mention that. 

*I'll announce the winners next Monday!