Karen Docter's Blog, page 171

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: The Dragon’s Blood Key (Legend of the Dragon’s Blood Key Book 1) by Linda L. Barton

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 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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THE DRAGON’S BLOOD KEY

Legend of the Dragon’s Blood Key Book 1

BY LINDA L. BARTON

Blurb

Swept away to a magical realm, Cassy finds herself forced to fight in an ancient war. As she embarks on a quest to lift the curse cast by the Evil Queen Alona over the Kingdom of Walandra, Cassy soon learns her true destiny. Sometimes the hero comes in a form least expected.

This is the first installment in the Legend of The Dragon’s Blood Key.

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[image error] THE DRAGON’S BLOOD KEY

Legend of the Dragon’s Blood Key Book 1

BY LINDA L. BARTON

Excerpt

“Cassy, where are we?” Aaron asked in a near whisper.

“Huh? What are you talking about, we’re in the library,” Cassy groaned as she opened her eyes. Nevertheless, what she saw made it entirely clear they were no longer in the library.

“Abigail, you have returned to us,” a voice exclaimed from behind a fallen tree.

Cassy struggled to her feet then reached down to help Aaron stand.

“Cassy, who said that?”

“I don’t know.”

“Who are you? Come out so we can see you.” Cassy pushed Aaron behind her in a protective stance.

“You are not Abigail? I do not understand. You look like Abigail from the stories I grew up hearing,” the voice was full of disappointment at hearing this news.

Cassy squared her shoulders, trying to summon the courage to face this unknown person. “Show yourself,” she demanded.

Aaron gasped as he watched a creature step from behind the log. It stood nearly five-foot-tall with dark scaly skin and bright emerald green eyes that seemed to look deep into his soul. He blinked his eyes several times, not convinced he was truly seeing what was stood there before him.

“You’re a dragon,” the words escaped his mouth before he realized what he had said.

The creature stepped closer but stopped when Cassy held out her hand. “Stop, dragons aren’t real. They are only make-believe; something out of Fairy Tales.”

The expression on the creature’s face changed from one of hope to one of sadness.

“I do not understand. There are whispers of how Abigail, the chosen Champion, who had fought the Evil Queen Alona would someday return. It is said once she returns; she will defeat the Queen and restore freedom to the Kingdom of Walandra. You promised that you would return to help us, and here you are.”

Cassy shook her head, trying to clear her mind. “Stop calling me Abigail. My name is Cassy. I don’t know you, and I never promised to return. Heck, I don’t even know where we are, so how could I have promised anything?”

“But you answered our plea. We called out to you, and you returned to Walandra,” the creature smiled, trying to put her at ease. “You must remember.”

Cassy shook her head again then looked back at Aaron. “Pinch me. I want to wake up from this strange dream.”

Aaron looked at Cassy and chuckled. “Pinch you, I’ve already been pinching myself, and it’s not working. I don’t think we’re dreaming. This is real.”

[image error]Meet Author Linda L. Barton…

Linda L Barton is a Multi-Genre Author. Publishing her first book in 2011, Linda started out by writing Dark Thrillers. Since then she has branched out by writing YA Fantasy, Women’s Romantic Fiction, and even Children’s Books under the name Nana Barton.

One of the high points of Linda’s writing career was when Next Move, You’re Dead: The Trilogy Bundle was chosen as 1 of 100 pre-loaded Kindle Fire ebooks given away in the 2013 Emmy Awards VIP Swag Bags to over 600 of those in attendance at the awards that evening.

Linda is also the Founder of Deadly Reads, Deadly Reads Author Services, and Host of the Deadly Reads Radio Podcast on Youtube. (

Linda is also blessed to be married to a wonderful man, Bob for more than 30 years. Bob is her writing muse and has created several of the plots for her books. Together they have a daughter and son, as well as 5 beautiful grandchildren; all of whom are the joy of their lives.

Linda never thought she would become a published author, but now she cannot imagine doing anything else.

~~~

Links to Linda’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon http://amzn.to/2y7D8XI

Facebook Author Page

https://www.facebook.com/LindaBartonBooks/

Twitter https://twitter.com/LindaLBarton

Deadly Reads Website https://deadlyreads.com/

Blog https://lindalbarton.blog/

Amazon Author Page

https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B004WGKW9M

Deadly Reads Youtube channel

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDP1LJNdZolZdioZ5rapaiw

YouTube Book Trailer:

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Linda will give away an Amazon ebook copy of THE DRAGON’S BLOOD KEY to TWO lucky readers who comment on her Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, Linda, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench **Series Sneak Peek**: TAKEN BY STORM: It’s More Than a Rose, TAKEN BY STORM SEQUEL: He Held My Heart Captive, and SILENT WHISPERS Book 3 by M.E. Giguere

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 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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[image error]TAKEN BY STORM

It’s More Than a Rose

BY M.E. GIGUERE

Blurb

After Meg Williams/Food Critic’s third child was born. In walks – Single — Architect — Doug Storm. Taking her world by storm. There’s an instant attraction that leads them on a journey of uncertainty and desire. In a whirlwind sizzling affair of the hearts. Meg was trapped in a marriage. Engaged at seventeen, married at eighteen. No way out. ‘LOST.’ Nowhere to go. Her heart was attached to another. The love of her life waiting for her to free herself is a heart-wrenching story of unrequited love. A powerful romance that takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster ride of lust and love.

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[image error]TAKEN BY STORM

SEQUEL: He Held My Heart Captive

BY M.E. GIGUERE

Blurb

Doug, Doug Storm, that is. The handsome architect who won Meg’s heart can no longer take the years of waiting.

Totally broken in spirit and heart, he sends Meg a message. It’s over. “I can’t do this anymore.”

Meg felt her feet dissapearing in quicksand, slowly encircling her, squeezing tightly every breath she tried to take. Her heart sank deeper and deeper, sucking down her last ray of hope.

Doug realizes he cannot go on without Meg. But, can free-spirited Meg live with the new ground rules Doug has requested of her?

Meg’s jealousy flounders in a constant pool of uncertainty, while Doug wrestles with his own insecurities of knowing Meg remains living with Noah.

Will the phone call ever come that Doug’s heart has been waiting for? When Meg finally says. “I’m leaving Noah. Come get me.”

SILENT WHISPERS

Taken By Storm Book 3

BY M.E. GIGUERE

Blurb

Doug’s world crumbled like storm waves battering sand castles standing majestically at the edge of the beach.

The excitement of a wayside stop blended with the salty air and sapphire skies. Lost in each other’s touch their passion soared. Suddenly, Meg’s scream shattered the mounting sexual storm as she collapsed.

‘911! What’s your emergency?’ Words no one wants to hear. The medic’s attempts to save Meg’s life set in motion questions that had unknown answers.

Journey with Doug, Doug Storm that is, as he tells their love story from his eyes only . . . and Meg’s Silent Whispers.

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[image error]Meet Author M.E. Giguere…

Mother and Grandmother. Lives in sunny Phoenix, Arizona, where her four children reside with their families. First time author of two published romance novels. TAKEN by STORM, subtitle, It’s More Than A Rose, book one of The Doug Storm Series and TAKEN by STORM, subtitle, He Held My Heart Captive, the sequel. M. E. Giguere also has five cookbooks to her credit with family photos and recipes. She has illustrated and written a children’s book, soon to be published. ‘Noah and friends’. Finally, one day, she put pen to paper. Writing every day for two and a half years. Then all handwritten chapters were finally entered into her laptop. Editing, editing and more editing. Then, the final print after a lifetime dream.

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Links to M.E.’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon US Link: Taken By Storm, It’s More Than A Rose, Bk 1:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B013QFW4M2/

Amazon US: Taken By Storm, He Held My Heart Captive, Bk 2:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B013R8ZA92/

Amazon: Silent Whispers/Standalone to the TAKEN by STORM series

http://www.amazon.com/dp/1544005954

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: M.E.[image error] will give away an ebook copy of SILENT WHISPERS to TWO lucky readers who comment on her Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, M.E., for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: My Zombie Wedding (The Undead Canadian Series Book 3) by T. Strange

 

 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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MY ZOMBIE WEDDING

The Undead Canadian Series Book 3

BY T. STRANGE

Blurb

Any city is bound to collect restless dead. Armed with the notebook of Icelandic magic his ex boyfriend, Bone, gave him, Edward Grey has been tasked with removing troubled spirits or finding ways for the living and the dead to coexist in harmony. Between planning his wedding with his undead Canadian fiancé, Kit Ward, and his continued studies as a medical student, Edward didn’t need another commitment, but he can’t turn away people who are frightened or in danger.

A particularly vicious ghost gives Edward an ominous warning—they’re coming—and a few days later Edward’s notebook is stolen from him. While he’s attempting to find it, he and his mentor, Mariel, are confronted by a very powerful necromancer and barely escape with their lives.

On the run, Edward is pursued everywhere he goes, until the necromancers following him manage to capture Kit.

Edward’s hunt for his kidnapped fiancé will take him to the underworld and beyond.

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[image error]MY ZOMBIE WEDDING

The Undead Canadian Series Book 3

BY T. STRANGE

Excerpt

On Sunday I visited Mariel.

I rang her doorbell, enjoying—as I always did—the sound of the clapper hitting the cast iron bell. It was much more satisfying than an electronic chime. There was no answer, which was unusual; Mariel was almost always home during the day. As a hypnotist, she usually works evenings, and most of the time she let me know when she was scheduled to work. I called her number. Again, no response. Just as I was starting to worry, she appeared on the path between her house and the next, waving at me.

“I thought I heard something!” She motioned for me to follow her into her backyard, then stepped around the side of the house again.

She was kneeling in front of one of her plant beds when I entered the yard. She was wearing a broad-brimmed hat, a pair of canvas gardening gloves, and an apron over a brightly coloured, floral dress. “I had a feeling I would be seeing you today.”

That was just uncanny—had a ghost given her a warning, too?

Glancing up from her work in time to see my shocked expression, she laughed. “I am sorry, Edward. I was only teasing you. I did not know you would be visiting today. Oh! I still have your tarp; have you come to get it?” She inclined her head in the direction of the folded canvas.

Seeing it brought back memories of the night I’d first found Kit. I’d been looking for that tarp, so I could use it to drag his body from the park where he’d been killed to my house. I hadn’t really thought of it since then. “No, you can keep it. You’ll be needing it to cover your plants soon anyway, right?”

She gestured at the plant bed, and the pile of pulled-up plants beside her. “I am getting everything ready for winter as we speak. Care to help?”

“You’re joking, right? I wouldn’t know which of these was a weed or not. I have the opposite of a green thumb. I have a…black thumb.”

“That is true. Please, do not touch my plants.” Grinning at me, she continued her work.

I couldn’t tell why she selected some of them to uproot, while others got to remain; they all looked the same to me.

“To what do I owe the pleasure of your company, then?” she asked. The plant she held in her hand had small, round growths on its roots. I wondered if it was some sort of disease, but as she dug in the area around where she’d taken the plant from, she excavated several larger objects.

“Those are potatoes!”

Mariel sighed. “Yes, pitit mwen. Potatoes come from the ground. They do not simply appear in plastic bags at the supermarket.”

I blushed. “I-I know that! I’ve just never seen them growing before.”

She snorted, tossing a potato at me.

I actually caught it, and was very impressed with myself.

She motioned for me to put it in the basket beside her. “Clearly. I must be neglecting your education; I have taught you about herbs that will help you with your ghost busting….”

I rolled my eyes at her.

“…but I doubt that you could identify the plants they come from.”

Mariel had given me some of the herbs, already dried and looking like kitchen spices, and I’d bought the others online. I definitely had no idea what any of them had looked like when alive. “That’s…one of the reasons I’m here. Not to learn about plants!” My brain was so full of human anatomy already; if I had to add plant anatomy, it would probably give up the ghost entirely. Heh. “I was wondering…who did this job before me? Getting rid of ghosts. Helping people. I know it wasn’t you.”

“That is a very good question,” she replied, not looking up from her plants. “I was wondering when it would occur to you to ask.”

I loved when she told me I’d asked a good question. So often, I felt like I only asked her questions I should already know the answers to.

“There has not been someone filling that particular role in this city for a number of years, not since the last one died.”

My eyes widened as I imagined the last person who did exactly what I spent my nights doing dying in an epic battle against a powerful ghost.

Mariel laughed, patting my leg. “Sit down; I am tired of looking up at you. He was very old, Edward. He was not killed by ghosts.”

I sat. Phew. “What was he like?”

“I did not know him very well. Our paths seldom crossed, given the fact that I repel ghosts.” She smiled at me, flicking my arm with the long, slender leaves of the plant she was holding. “He would have liked you.”

That resonated deeply with me, made me feel like I was part of a tradition. That I was carrying on something, something that had begun before me and would continue after I died.

[image error]Meet Author T. Strange…

T. Strange didn’t want to learn how to read, but literacy prevailed and she hasn’t stopped reading—or writing—since. She’s been published since 2013, and she writes M/M romance in multiple genres. T.’s other interests include cross stitching, gardening, watching terrible horror movies, playing video games, and finding injured pigeons to rescue.

Originally from White Rock, BC, she lives on the Canadian prairies, where she shares her home with her wife, cats, guinea pigs, and a small dog. She’s very easy to bribe with free food and drinks—especially wine.

If you’d like to keep track of her latest releases—plus receive exclusive coupons and giveaways—you can sign up for her newsletter. 

Also by T. Strange

The Undead Canadian Series

My Zombie Boyfriend

My Zombie Fiancé

My Zombie Wedding

Bits & Bones (forthcoming)

~~~

Links to T.’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon:  http://amzn.to/2grEtPp

Smashwords: 

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/748401

Social Media Links

Friend me on Facebook

Facebook Author Page

Follow me on Twitter

Subscribe to my blog

Sign up for my mailing list

Pinterest

Instagram

Tumblr

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**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: T. is participating in a Rafflecopter contest along with several other authors and readers can win a variety of prizes. To Enter:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/425392315/?

Thanks, T, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Congratulations Week 10-02-17, 10-09-17 & 10-16-17 Blog Giveaway Winners!

[image error] CONGRATULATIONS WEEK

10-02-17, 10-09-17 & 10-16-17

BLOG GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Mary Lingerfelt…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Mary will give away prizes to two lucky readers who comment on her Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog. 1st Prize: $10 Amazon Gift Card. 2nd Prize: Kindle copy of TRUE NORTH.

Thanks, Mary, for sharing your book with us!

WINNER Amazon GC: YVONNE MONTGOMERY!!

WINNER True North: LINDA MOFFITT!!

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Fixin’s with Adele Hewett Veal…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Adele will give away a PDF copy of REFLECTIONS FROM WITHIN to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, Adele, for sharing your book with us!

WINNER: BN100!! 

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Fixin’s with Anya Summers…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Anya will give away a $10 Amazon Gift Card to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog.

Thanks, Anya, for sharing your book with us!

WINNER: COLLEEN C.!!

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Fixin’s with Michelle Lynne…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Michelle will give away an ebook copy of BECAUSE YOU CAN’T GO HOME AGAIN to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog.

Thanks, Michelle, for sharing your book with us!

WINNER: KATHLEEN BYLSMA!!

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[image error] Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Barbara Nickless…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Barbara will give away a Kindle version of either Blood on the Tacks (Book 1) or Dead Stop (Book 2) to one lucky reader who comments on her **Author Peek** or Karen’s Killer Book Bench blogs.

Thanks, Barbara, for sharing your book with us!

WINNER: EILEEN AW!!

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Savannah Blaize…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Savannah will give away an ebook copy of FROM PARIS TO FOREVER (as an Amazon gift voucher) to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, Savannah, for sharing your book with us!

WINNER: CAROL OPALINSKI!

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[image error]Karen’s Killer Fixin’s with M.K. Scott…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: M.K. will give away a signed copy of A BARK IN THE NIGHT to one lucky reader who comments on this Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog.

Thanks, M.K., for sharing your book with us!

WINNER: MICHELLE WILLMS!!  

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[image error] FINAL DAY!!

WIN #ThatBookRocks Contest!!

Kindle Fire & 50 Paperback #Romances!!

Expand your book collection now! Simply enter below.

http://bit.ly/2vZToWe

HAPPY READING!

~~~

All giveaway winners chosen by random.org from reader comments with the exception of Rafflecopter giveaways which are determined and announced offsite by publisher/authors. Thank you!

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with A BARK IN THE NIGHT (The Talking Dog Detective Agency Book 1) by M.K. Scott #recipe ~ Harvest Cake

 

[image error]Karen’s Killer Fixin’s

**AUTHOR SPECIAL**

with M.K. Scott!

Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, M.K. SCOTT and her favorite recipe for HARVEST CAKE! 

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A BARK IN THE NIGHT

The Talking Dog Detective Agency Book 1

BY M.K. SCOTT

BLURB

Out of control preschoolers and their demanding parents has Nala trying on the private investigation business over summer break. Her ability to solve mysteries within thirty minutes of the show starting should serve her well. Her agency motto is discreet inquiries, which apparently means nothing to her police captain father or her competitive mother. They’re determined to help no matter how much Nala refuses their assistance.

A hunky veteran turned cop, a helpful neighbor, and a rescue dog that talks only makes things interesting. She’d might even start to enjoy the job if whoever is trying to kill her would just give it a break.

[image error]A BARK IN THE NIGHT

The Talking Dog Detective Agency Book 1

BY M.K. SCOTT

MEET MAX

Max is the crime solving sidekick of Nala Bonne, who is a preschool teacher turned investigator. She agreed to take the shelter dog her friend, Karly urged on her only because no one else would. Her friend failed to mention the dog could talk and could be a bit of a diva too.

Max like his cartoon counterpart, Scooby-doo, loves to eat. Instead of a Scooby snack, he prefers a cheeseburger. When he isn’t helping on a case or trying to match Nala with an appropriate guy, he’s contemplating his next treat.

Some people might wonder why I chose a talking dog. Most dog lovers so talk to their pets. It was only logical that the pets have something to say in return. Max helps explains some of the mysteries of dog behavior while giving unsolicited advice too.

The fact that Max can talk adds a twist to crime solving since people seldom watch what they say in front of the dog along with additional tension because Nala is constantly covering for Max when he makes impulsive comments. She’s convinced someone will kidnap him if they know he can talk and sell him to the highest bidder.

Max is a fun character to write for because he has all the bravado of a teen age boy and just about the same amount of knowledge of the world. In other words, he’s a bit of a know it all. His rash actions often propel the two of them into tricky situations.

Like to find out more about Max. Grab A Bark in the Night while it is only .99 cents. It goes back to 2.99 on November 1st.

[image error]Meet Author M.K. Scott…

M.K. Scott is the husband and wife writing team behind The Painted Lady Inn Mysteries and The Talking Dog Detective Agency. Morgan K Wyatt is the general wordsmith, while her husband, Scott, is the grammar hammer and physics specialist. He uses his engineering skills to explain how fast a body falls when pushed over a cliff and various other felonious activities. The Internet and experts in the field provide forensic information, while the recipes and B and B details require a more hands-on approach. Morgan’s daughter, who manages a hotel, provides guest horror stories to fuel the plot lines. The couple’s dog, Chance, is the inspiration behind Jasper, Donna’s dog. Overall, both are a fun series to create and read.

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Links to M.K.’s website, blog, books, etc.

Website   Facebook   Twitter Goodreads Amazon

Amazon US

Amazon UK

iTunes

Barnes and Noble

Smashwords

I hope you enjoy the recipe M.K. is sharing today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy Eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 337 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.

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HARVEST CAKE

[Makes 8-12 Servings]

Note from M.K.: The original recipe came out of a Betty Crocker Cookbook, I may have tweaked it a little.

Servings 8-12 depending on the size of the slice

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Time: approx. 2 hours

Ingredients:

1 cup buttermilk
1 cup water
2/3 cup cooking oil
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ounce cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup canned pumpkin
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup whipping cream
4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
Seedless red grapes, whole blackberries or raspberries, toasted hazelnuts, or shredded orange peel

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour two 9×1-1/2-inch round baking pans; set aside.
In an extra-large bowl combine buttermilk, water, oil, sugar, eggs, baking soda, and salt. Using a large wire whisk, whisk until well combined. Add flour and cocoa powder; whisk vigorously until smooth. Divide batter between prepared pans.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until top springs back when lightly touched in center. Cool in pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pans and cool completely.
In a medium bowl whisk together cream cheese, pumpkin, sugar, and cinnamon until thickened. Place one cake layer on plate. Spread filling over top. Top with second cake layer.
In a saucepan bring whipping cream just to boiling over medium-high heat. Remove from heat. Add (the best you can afford) chocolate (do not stir). Let stand 5 minutes. Stir until smooth. Cool 15 minutes or until slightly thickened. Pour over cake, allowing glaze to drip down sides. Chill until set, about 30 minutes. Top with grapes and/or other desired toppers.

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: M.K. will give away a signed copy of A BARK IN THE NIGHT to one lucky reader who comments on this Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog.

Thanks, M.K., for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: From Paris to Forever by Savannah Blaize

 

 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

FROM PARIS TO FOREVER

BY SAVANNAH BLAIZE

Blurb

When Real Estate owner Todd Baker appears unannounced at Chloe Armstrong’s front door offering to buy her home, she is unimpressed by his offer, his good looks or his expensive suit. Not to mention his killer smile.

Chloe has spent years as a dancer at the Lido in Paris. Until a career ending fall sent her back home to be with her dying father. She is an independent woman, who has found a new purpose restoring her home. She has no time for a controlling man in her life.

Reluctant to let this golden opportunity pass to own a prime piece of beachside property, Todd wears down Chloe’s defences enough to allow a friendship to develop. He is surprised to find he is enjoying her company. He is falling for the ex-dancer, but is totally in denial. When Patrick, Todd’s laid-back, charismatic and handsome younger brother appears, sparks fly between Patrick and Chloe.

Can Todd persuade Chloe to see him as he really is underneath the expensive façade?

Will Chloe learn to trust someone with her heart, when she has been so badly let down before?

~~

[image error] FROM PARIS TO FOREVER

BY SAVANNAH BLAIZE

Excerpt

PROLOGUE

A drum roll heralded the finale of the Lido 2012 summer season. The audience strained forward to catch their first glimpse of the cabaret dancers’ colourful and elaborate costumes. The house lights dimmed and the strategically placed spotlights blinked on, illuminating the stage. The atmosphere was electric.

Centre stage, on a raised podium, Chloe Armstrong struggled to hold her pose, thankful this evening’s performance was nearly over. She flicked her eyes to the other dancers positioned below. The heat radiating from the stage lights overhead was noticeably intense. Expensive fragrances mingled with the aroma of candle wax and stage make-up, creating a heady perfume in the air. Light-headed with a dry mouth, she twisted and twirled to the music of the live band below. Her costume was la crème de la crème of the show. The jewel-encrusted headdress alone weighed over three kilos. The beaded collar, bra and G-string showcased her toned body and long legs to perfection, making her beautiful and powerful in this elaborate costume, very much the Principal Dancer.

Below, the enthralled audience gazed up at her, their expectant faces illuminated by tea lights on the tables. As she turned, her headdress slipped. She raised her hands to hold it in place, precariously venturing too close to the edge of the podium. Struggling to correct her position in dangerously high stilettos, she lost her balance. The dancer on the podium to her left reached out in an attempt to grab her, but it was too late. She fell to the stage below, striking the podium, and pain seared through her leg.

The loud gasp of horror from the audience immobilised the other dancers. Stagehands rushed to help her, all speaking at once. Dizzy, her vision blurred, she fought for words. Red-hot agony shot down one leg and she frantically pushed away the hands trying to grasp her. The distraught expressions of the dancers would stay in her mind forever. Without a shadow of doubt, she had broken her leg.

The curtain came down, ending the performance and one young dancer’s career.

[image error]Meet Author Savannah Blaize…

Savannah is originally from Scotland, and now lives on the other side of the world, in Melbourne, Australia. The climate in Melbourne is very similar to Scottish weather, where you can have cold days yet the sun is shining, and rain and hail can appear at any given moment. Having four seasons in a year similar to the UK also allows her to indulge in wearing coats, hats, scarves and gloves in winter, all of which she is very fond.

Melbourne has been nominated the most liveable city for the seventh year in a row, and Savannah knows why. The laneways are full of eclectic boutiques and coffee shops, the restaurants cater for all nationalities, the many theatres showcase ballet and live productions from around the world. There are countless wineries a short drive away, dotted along the Bellarine coastline and into the Yarra Valley. The beaches are vast and even on the most blustery cold day, the sea calls to anyone who longs to be in touch with nature. Food, wine and entertainment all help to fuel Savannah’s creative imagination.

From Paris To Forever is Savannah’s first full-length novel, published earlier this year. It opens in Paris but is mainly is set in Melbourne, Australia. She has had two short stories published in Anthologies, one in November 2015 and one in February 2017. She is currently writing another full-length novel, which is set in America.

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Links to Savannah’s website, blog, books, etc.

Website:  www.savannahblaize.com

Amazon: 

www.amazon.com/Paris-Forever-Savannah-Blaize-ebook/dp/B06Y3Y44C2

Amazon AU:

www.amazon.com.au/Paris-Forever-Savannah-Blaize-ebook/dp/B06Y3Y44C2

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Savannah will give away an ebook copy of FROM PARIS TO FOREVER (as an Amazon gift voucher) to one lucky reader who comments on her Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

Thanks, Savannah, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Win 60 Romantic Suspense Novels & eReader #Giveaway! #BookSweeps

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WIN 60 Romantic Suspense Novels & eReader!!

Today, I have a fun surprise that I’d like to share with you.

I’ve teamed up with 60 fantastic authors to give away a huge collection of Romantic Suspense novels to 2 lucky winners, PLUS a brand new eReader to the Grand Prize winner!

You can win my novel KILLING SECRETS (Thorne’s Thorns Book 1), plus books from authors like DAVID BISHOP (The Maltese Pigeon, A Matt Kile Mystery), J.T. ELLISON (A Deeper Darkness) and ANGI MORGAN (Ranger Protector).

Enter the giveaway by clicking here: http://bit.ly/2xvkwCe

Good luck, and enjoy!

KAREN (K.L.) DOCTER

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Karen’s Killer Book Bench: DEAD STOP (Sydney Rose Parnell Series Book 2) by Barbara Nickless

 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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DEAD STOP

Sydney Rose Parnell Series Book 2

BY BARBARA NICKLESS

Blurb

The search for a missing child leads a courageous railway cop down a twisted trail of murder.

It’s been five months since Special Agent Sydney Parnell survived a violent confrontation with a gang of brutal thugs, an encounter that left her physically and emotionally scarred. Deep down, Sydney fears she isn’t ready for another investigation. But when a woman is murdered on the train tracks and a child goes missing, she knows she’s the only one who can lead the hunt for the killer. While Denver police and the FBI chase down blind alleys, Sydney focuses on a single cryptic clue left behind at the crime scene—one that will send her down a path of greed, violence, and long-ago love.

With Denver beset by a series of monsoonlike thunderstorms that threaten to flood the city, Sydney and her K9 partner, Clyde, must wade through a murky trail of murder that stretches back thirty years—all to rescue a child…and catch a killer with a long memory and an insatiable appetite for destruction.

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[image error] DEAD STOP

Sydney Rose Parnell Series Book 2

BY BARBARA NICKLESS

Excerpt

Her husband brought home little from the war.

His rucksack, worn to a pale softness by desert winds. Two Silver Stars. A Bronze for valor. A promotion. A set of white creases etched around his eyes from squinting into an unforgiving sun. He came home with a slight drag in his right foot that on bad days required a cane.

But he came home.

And that, along with his new-found joy in his wife and children, made Samantha Davenport feel like the luckiest woman alive.

But there was a darker side to what Ben Davenport brought home from the war.

Nightmares. A tendency to startle. A fixed determination to drive more slowly than traffic or road conditions warranted. The occasional flare of temper followed by a long evening drinking whiskey and then a silence sharp as a suicide’s knife.

Now and again he had such a faraway look in his eyes that she didn’t know how to reach him.

At those times, Samantha wondered if her husband had really come home at all.

#

Ben Davenport’s youngest child didn’t care about any of this. Daddy was Daddy, and eight-year-old Lucy loved him with her entire being.

That Friday, at five minutes till seven, Lucy went into the kitchen where her mother stood browning meat at the stove. In the Davenport household, family dinner was non-negotiable. No matter how crazy things were. No matter how much her brothers grumbled about having to eat late or eat early or eat fast—whatever the night’s schedule required. No matter how tired their dad was or if the dog had been sick or if one of the kids had a project due for school. Their mom traveled a lot, but when she was in town, they ate together.

Precisely as the big hand on the clock ticked onto the twelve, the garage door rattled open outside and an engine rumbled as a car pulled in.

“Daddy’s home!” Lucy cried and went to crouch behind a chair at the dining table. It was part of the game.

A minute later, her father came through the kitchen door on a wave of heat, carrying with him the smell of sun-crisped grass and baked asphalt. He tossed his briefcase on a chair, set his sunglasses on the counter and grinned at his wife.

He was a big man—six-foot-three and wide across his chest. His hair was military-short, his face kind but serious—even, Lucy had noticed, at birthday parties and baby showers.

“Like an oven out there,” he said.

Her mother leaned away from the stove to kiss him. “They’re saying more rain tonight.”

“Thank God.”

His fingers brushed her shoulder before he turned away to rummage through the refrigerator and emerged with a green bottle. He popped off the top and took a long drink.

“How was work today?” Lucy’s mother asked. She asked the same question every night. Sometimes Lucy heard something in her mother’s voice. Something sharp but hidden, like a needle lying forgotten in the carpet.

“Let’s see. We got in an order of office supplies. The internet went down for two hours. Emily brought kimchi for lunch. You ever smell that shi—  stuff? Make your eyes water. All the usual excitement.”

She set down the spoon. “Dull as a butter knife, is what you mean.”

Her father took a long drink. “It’s fine, Sam.”

“Sometimes I think you miss the war.”

Those words, Lucy somehow knew, were the needle sliding in.

Her father put down his beer and touched her mother’s cheek. “Not half as much as I missed you guys while I was over there. I’m good, Sam.”

Samantha Davenport turned her face into her husband’s palm, and he pulled her close. They stayed like that for a moment, their skin flush in the evening light. They made Lucy think of the statue in France, the one they’d seen last summer at the museum. The Kiss. As if nothing existed but the two of them. As if that was the way it should be.

Then her father stepped back. Smiled. “And your day, my beloved?”

Her mother picked up the spoon again. She was tall, with long, dark hair and brown eyes a magazine writer had called soulful. She was a famous photographer who took pictures of mothers and children. Her photos of Lucy and her brothers hung all over the house.

“Cranky babies,” her mother said. “Fretting mothers. I did get up to the factory, took more shots for next month’s gallery opening.”

“And no weird guy lurking in the background?”

Her eyebrows came together in that way that made Lucy think of bird’s wings. “Nothing. Jack didn’t see anything either. Maybe I’m just paranoid.”

Her dad nodded, but not like he agreed with her. Lucy thought her mom’s assistant was mostly okay, but she was pretty sure her dad didn’t like him at all. “You packed and ready to go?”

“Mostly. Four a.m. is going to come too early.” She gathered her hair in a fist and lifted it off her neck. “I’m going to miss you, Ben Davenport.”

He took her hands in his, freeing her hair, and pressed his nose into the long strands. “Where are the boys?”

“Upstairs, doing their homework.”

“Then it’s just us.” He put his arm around her.

“Daddy!” Lucy cried.

Her father winked at her mother. “Did you hear a mouse?”

“Daddy!”

“There it is again. That little field mouse. I thought we shooed it away.”

“I didn’t hear anything,” her mother said, smiling.

“Dad-dy!!” This time Lucy stomped her foot.

Her dad lowered his gaze until his eyes met Lucy’s.

He winked.

Lucy lifted her chin and held up her book. “It’s time, Daddy.”

Her mother folded her arms, but not in an angry-mom way. “You two have twenty minutes until dinner.”

In the library—it was really the family room, but Lucy and her father called it the library—Lucy grabbed Bobo and waited until her dad had turned on the lamp and seated himself in his favorite chair. Then she clamored into his lap and curled against his chest, her stuffed monkey tucked into her own lap. Her father carried the heat of the day, like a stray bit of sun in the air-conditioned house. He smelled of the office—papers and stale air but also cigarette smoke and a whiff of grease. The grease said he’d been in the yard with the trains that day.

“You had peanut butter for lunch,” she said.

“Satay,” he answered as he opened the book. “Chicken with peanut sauce. Much better than kimchi. Now where were we?”

His chest rumbled beneath her ear as he read. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Her favorite. Not least because her mother had named her after the little girl in the book, Lucy Pevensie. Lucy who was brave and honest and good.

Outside, through the western windows, clouds gathered. July was the time for thunderstorms in Colorado, her mother had told her. “It might storm while I’m in New York,” she’d said. “But don’t be afraid. It’s just God rearranging the clouds.”

Lucy watched the sky darken while her father read aloud about the white witch. She could see their reflection floating in the glass. The window was a magic world; it held both the inside of the house where she and her father sat and the outside where the trees had begun to lash. Far away, a train whistle blew. Her father loved the trains. That’s where he worked now that he wasn’t a soldier anymore, writing a book about the railroads. But the sound of the whistle always opened up something in Lucy that was far away and sad.

A silver thread of lightning shot down from the sky. Lucy shivered.

[image error]Meet Author Barbara Nickless…

Barbara Nickless promised her mother she’d be a novelist when she grew up. What could be safer than sitting at a desk all day? But an English degree and a sense of adventure took her down other paths—technical writer, raptor rehabilitator, astronomy instructor, sword fighter, piano teacher and journalist. Now an award-winning author, she spends her free time snowshoeing, caving and hiking the Colorado Rockies. Connect with her at www.barbaranickless.com.

~~~

Links to Barbara’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ynMm2d

I’d love to hear from readers! Please check out my blog and website at www.barbaranickless.com . Or connect with me on Twitter–@BarbaraNickless or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/barbarannickless/ . 

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Barbara will give away a Kindle version of either Blood on the Tacks (Book 1) or Dead Stop (Book 2) to one lucky reader who comments on her **Author Peek** or Karen’s Killer Book Bench blogs.

Thanks, Barbara, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Dark Signal (A Kate Fox Novel) by Shannon Baker

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 [image error]KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

2017 WRITER OF THE YEAR RETURNS THIS FALL WITH TWO NEW MYSTERIES

Shannon Baker releases short story and full length novel in the Kate Fox series praised by New York Times Best-Selling Authors William Kent Krueger, Linda Castillo and Anne Hillerman

TUCSON, AZ — This fall, Kate Fox returns for not one, but two new tales in Shannon Baker’s thrilling mystery series. Short story Close Enough (September 19; Tor/Forge) helps bridge the gap between Baker’s Stripped Bare — praised as “Longmire meets The Good Wife” — and the author’s second installment, Dark Signal (October 17; Tor/Forge).

Compared to character series like Craig Johnson’s Longmire, the Joe Pickett series by C.J. Box and Linda Castillo’s Kate Burkholder novels, Baker continues to deliver more humor and mayhem amidst the isolated cattle country of the Nebraska Sandhills. Kirkus says, “Baker serves up a ballsy heroine, a colorful backdrop, and a surprise ending” and New York Times Best-Selling Author Anne Hillerman raves, “Shannon Baker has created a finely crafted mystery that moves to its powerful climax like the rush of an oncoming train.”

Dark Signal finds Kate with a shiny new divorce decree and a graduation certificate from the Nebraska sheriff’s academy. She’s barely finished promising to serve and protect Grand County when there’s a fatality on the BNSF railway tracks. Clues point toward the victim’s rival, but Kate’s instincts lead her in a different direction. Maneuvering around her meddling family and patronizing state patrol, Kate must go it alone to track down a killer before it’s too late.

For those chomping at the bit for more of the gritty, no-nonsense protagonist, Close Enough delivers. A child goes missing in the Nebraska Sandhills and the entire town has organized a search and rescue mission, but Kate thinks something more nefarious is going on. With a dangerous winter storm fast approaching. Kate must find Ethan before it’s too late. On October 10th, Criminal Element will serialize the short story and include three chapters of Dark Signal, so readers can get an early start with Kate.

DARK SIGNAL

A Kate Fox Novel

BY SHANNON BAKER

Blurb

“Welcome to a world of danger, action, and complicated relationships. Shannon Baker has created a finely crafted mystery that moves to its powerful climax like the rush of an oncoming train. This book kept me reading too far into the night.” – Anne Hillerman, New York Times bestselling author

Dark Signal by Shannon Baker is the second installment in the Kate Fox mystery series, called “A must read” by New York Times bestselling author Alex Kava, starring a female Longmire in the atmospheric Nebraska Sandhills.

Reeling from her recent divorce, Kate Fox has just been sworn in as Grand County, Nebraska Sheriff when tragedy strikes. A railroad accident has left engineer Chad Mills dead, his conductor Bobby Jenkins in shock. Kate soon realizes that the accident was likely murder.

Who would want to kill Chad Mills? Kate finds that he made a few enemies as president of the railroad workers union. Meanwhile his widow is behaving oddly. And why was his neighbor Josh Stevens at the Mills house on the night of the accident?

While her loud and meddling family conspires to help Kate past her divorce, State Patrol Officer Trey closes in on Josh Stevens as the suspect. Kate doesn’t believe it. She may not have the experience, but she’s lived in the Sandhills her whole life, and knows the land and the people. Something doesn’t add up—and Kate must find the real killer before he can strike again.

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DARK SIGNAL

A Kate Fox Novel

BY SHANNON BAKER

Excerpt

Chapter 1

Sometimes, you’ve got no choice in life but to jump off the cliff. I’d jumped and landed on a crumbling ledge, clutching a root to keep from falling.

That’s why I stood sandwiched between Betty Paxton and Ethel Bender in the drafty commissioners’ meeting room at the Grand County courthouse. I raised my right hand and swore away my next four years.

The whiny strains of country music jangled from the radio in the treasurer’s office, one door down. Clete Rassmussen, commissioner since the days of Moses, continued addressing us in his booming, if pained, voice. “I will not advocate nor become a member of any political party or organization that advocates the overthrow of the government of the United States or of this state by force or violence. So help me God.”

My mumbled “I do,” mixed with that of Betty and Ethel.

Betty’s spiked hair was probably cutting-edge when she first sported the do twenty years ago. Now it reminded me of Bart Simpson. She tossed off a smile. “Good to have you aboard.”

With her scowl and thin lips that looked like someone drew them with a pencil, blue-haired Ethel let out a sigh like a deflating tire.

Betty and Ethel exited the room, leaving me and Clete alone.

This was my first, and hopefully only, pledge to protect and serve the good people of Hodgekiss, Nebraska, and the four widely-spread communities that populate the sprawling ranch country of Grand County, where cattle outnumber people by more than 60:1.

I adjusted the stiff brown shirt I’d washed several times to soften, and smoothed my hands down my hips, knowing the twill uniform pants didn’t flatter my figure. Who cared?

Clete clapped his hands. “That about does it.”

The bruising purple of evening showed outside the two-foot high windows that ran along the top of the meeting room. A clear night like this wouldn’t temper January’s knife-cold. It’s the kind of night the cows huddled in the corner of the pasture, pressed close together to share warmth.

I didn’t need to worry about cows any more. Later tonight, with wool socks keeping my toes toasty, flannel pajama pants and long-sleeve t-shirt, I’d snuggle under a down comforter. Alone.

Clete cleared his throat, a sound like thunder in a box canyon. He lifted a cardboard carton from the hulking desk in the corner. “Here’s the sheriff stuff. Ted dropped it off this afternoon.”

For Ted—the last sheriff and my husband of eight years and ex-husband of nine months—giving up the tools of the office would have been a knife in his heart. Too bad.

Clete rested the box in my open arms. “There’s the inventory sheet you need to fill out and sign, along with the phone and, uh….”

“The gun.” I finished for him. Taking that gun off his hip must have felt to Ted like disrobing in public. In truth, I probably hated that exchange more than he did. Guns and I didn’t have a love relationship.

In for a penny, in for a pound, Dad always said, so I’d better open my heart to the .40 caliber Smith and Wesson. Tomorrow.

The phone in the box let out a chirp so familiar to me, yet one I hadn’t heard in nine months. It took a moment to convince myself it wasn’t Ted’s phone, but the sheriff’s phone. And I was the sheriff.

I set the box on the conference table and pulled the phone out, punching it on. “Sheriff’s phone.” I winced. That’s how I used to answer it when I was Ted’s wife and he was sheriff.

“Whew.”

“Sarah?” I recognized the voice of my best friend and sister-in-law.

She let out a breath of relief. “You didn’t answer your phone so I took a chance you’d already got this one. I didn’t want to talk to Ted.”

I glanced at Clete who eyed me with irritation. Or indigestion. With Clete, it was hard to tell. Sarah wasn’t likely to call me to chat so I stepped into the hall. “What’s up?”

She huffed into the phone. “Damn, it’s freakin’ freezing! Why did you have to be born in January?”

Oh no. My stomach sank. “Tell me it’s not.”

She gave an irritated sigh. “It is. Louise planned a surprise party at your parents’ house. We’re pulling up now.”

My brother, Robert, hollered in the background. “Surprise!”

I hated my that older sister, Louise, was using my birthday as an excuse to get a goodly portion of the eight Fox kids together. I groaned. “Dad and Louise are the only ones who like these things.”

Sarah groaned along with me. “I feel ya. Looks like your dad is late. His pickup isn’t here but, according to Louise, he was supposed to be back an hour ago.”

You couldn’t count on the railroad. Dad had worked for BNSF for close to forty years. We were all used to his unpredictable schedule. “Thanks for the heads up.”

“Consider it my birthday present to you. Now get your butt over here. Don’t leave me alone with these crazy people.”

I laughed. “You had a choice whether to join this family and I warned you.”

“We love them, though.” Her voice quavered as if she ran. “Just hurry, because, you know, sometimes love isn’t enough.”

I pocketed the phone and went back to the commissioners’ room. Some kind of Cinderella midnight magic happened at the Grand County courthouse at the stroke of five. By the time I got off the phone, every sign of life had vanished. Even my breathing seemed to echo in the now empty building. I didn’t spare more than a single thought for hundred year-old ghosts before grabbing my new brown sheriff’s coat, complete with patch featuring a windmill in a pasture.

I hesitated and gave myself a big mental push to settle my gun into my holster. Like a puppy with his first collar. Eventually I’d get used to it.

I clattered down the wide steps that led to the back door of the courthouse, not wanting to head home to a house filled with well-meaning but boisterous family. My breath retreated down my throat at the first intake of the frigid night air. The cold made me cough and my nose hair stuck together. I retrieved Thinsulate ski gloves from my pocket one split-second before my fingers froze and shattered.

I climbed into the cruiser and jammed the keys in the ignition to fire her up. The key turned and headlights blasted, the radio blared, wipers lashed across the windshield and I yelped. With a flash of adrenaline, I slapped at switches, frantic to turn off the chaos and in the confusion, hit the toggles near my right elbow and the siren screamed and light bar sprang to life.

Smack, whap, punch. The noise and lights died and I spent a second slowing my heart rate. Eight brothers and sisters meant I was no novice with practical jokes, but I hadn’t expected this petty mischief from Ted. In the official cop car.

Wincing in anticipation of some other prank, I slipped the gear shift into drive. The Charger’s heat blasted on before my headlights brushed the street. I caught a whiff of Irish Spring overlaid with a musky, man scent. Ted. He was all over this car. Tomorrow I’d buy one of those pine tree deodorizers.

The phone rang again. I considered not answering it, assuming if Sarah thought to call me on the sheriff’s number, other brothers or sisters would figure it out, too. But, it was the official number and I’d best get used to responding.

This time, though, I was ready with a firm, “Grand County Sheriff.”

“Kate?” The familiar voice sounded surprised. “Oh. Didn’t know you’d already been sworn in.”

“How’re you doing, Marybeth?” I knew the dispatcher in Ogallala from my years as the sheriff’s wife. With way more prairie than people and several counties boasting the sheriff as the only law enforcement officer, all 911 calls routed to Ogallala, a town of not quite five thousand souls. Marybeth had been dispatching down there for a long time

Marybeth’s serious voice struck me. “Highway 2, mile marker 146. BNSF tracks. Possible death. Ambulance called.”

A call. Not traffic, not a kitten in a tree. Something big. Something bad.

What had I sworn in for? My mouth dry, I said, “On my way.”

Marybeth hung up and left me with a terrible thought.

Possible death. Just east of town a few miles. Dad was coming from the east. He was late. An icy chill that had nothing to do with the winter ran over my skin.

[image error]Meet Author Shannon Baker…

Shannon Baker is the author of the Kate Fox mystery series, set in the isolated cattle country of the Nebraska Sandhills. She was voted Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ 2017 Writer of the Year and Stripped Bare earned the author a starred review in Library Journal (as their Pick of the Month) and a nomination for the 2016 Reading The West Award from Mountains and Plains Independent Booksellers. She also writes the Nora Abbott Mysteries (Midnight Ink), featuring Hopi Indian mysticism and environmental issues inspired by her time working at the Grand Canyon Trust. Shannon makes her home in Tucson where she enjoys cocktails by the pool, breathtaking sunsets, a crazy Weimaraner, and killing people (in the pages of her books).

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Links to Shannon’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2xmsjC9

The mystery author will be traveling across America for special events and conferences.

See her full schedule:

http://shannon-baker.com/where-ill-be/

Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Can’t wait until October? Pick up Stripped Bare now, or the thrilling Kate Fox short story Close Enough on September 19th! Shannon-Baker.com

~~~

Thanks, Shannon, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

**Author Peek** Interview with Barbara Nickless, DEAD STOP, Sydney Rose Parnell Series Book 2

**Author Peek** Interview with Barbara Nickless

DEAD STOP, Sydney Rose Parnell Series Book 2

[image error]INTRODUCING…Barbara.

Before we get started talking about your writing, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, what you do for a living (if you’re not a full-time writer) what hobbies you have, etc. Whatever you’d like to share to introduce yourself.

I was made in Japan, born in Guam and now live in Colorado where I’m very fortunate to work as a full-time writer. When I’m not chained to my desk, I love to hike, read, hang out with my family, and cook.

1. What’s your favorite part of the writing process?

Creating characters. People are endlessly fascinating, and writing gives me a chance to dip beneath the surface of people I know or have met or even watched on television, trying to understand what makes them tick. Every person is a mishmash of nature and nurture, of expected traits and startlingly contradictions.

2.  If you were to choose one superpower, what would it be?

When I was a poor college student hitchhiking through the British Isles, I kept losing things. On the train, at the bottom of my backpack, in the hostel. I wanted the gift of finding things. Now I want the same superpower. But not only would I use it to find my car keys, I’d broaden the concept to include helping others find things they’ve lost—from a stray pet to their heart’s desire.

3. Do you ever get stuck when you’re writing a book? What do you do to get “unstuck”?

I get stuck every five minutes or so (!), usually when I’m trying to figure out a plot problem or devise a twist. That’s when I ‘put on my thinking cap,’ as my mother used to say. The famous screenwriter/playwright David Mamet said any plot problem is solvable if you’re willing to put in the time and hard work to figure it out. When I get really, truly stuck, I turn my mind to something completely different in order to give my subconscious a chance to weigh in. I think it was Stephen King who talked about the man in the basement who is always hard at work—we just need to open the channel for him to show us what he’s come up with.

4. What is your least favorite part of writing?

The blank page. It terrifies me, sitting alone with only my own thoughts for company. I’ll do anything to fill that void: laundry, Netflix, scrubbing floors. But in the end, a novel only gets written if you can get over that hurdle. A lot of magic waits on the other side.

5. If we came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare for us?

I just got back from more than three wonderful weeks in Morocco, a country with a very different culture from our own. The food was amazing—always fresh and wonderfully spiced. I’d like to try my own hand at making a tagine (or tajine), the Moroccan dish named for the covered clay dish in which it’s cooked. A tagine is made with vegetables, sometimes couscous, and often a kind of meat. I even had goat-meat tagine while I was in southern Morocco, although I wouldn’t try that at home.

6. What do you wish you’d done differently when you first started the publishing process?

I wish I’d learned to set boundaries so that I’d begun writing seriously at a younger age. I have so many stories I want to write, and I worry I’ll run out of time!

7. What is most difficult for you to write?  Characters, conflict or emotions? Why?

Ironically, conflict is the most difficult element for me. I love when a story has heart, and often people/characters have the greatest heart after they’ve been through a lot of turmoil and struggle. But I hate hurting my characters or pitting them against each other. I want everyone to get along!

8.  A penguin walks into your office, right now, wearing a sombrero. What does he say to you and why is he here?

“Sweetie, you need to lay off the single malt.” Actually, he’d tell me to remember what’s important in life. Despite the traumas we sometimes experience, it’s important to try to bring a spark of joy into our daily lives. And to not take ourselves too seriously.

9.  If you could wave a magic wand, what ill in the world would you solve and why?

I’d love to wave away the desire of some people to get everyone to think the way they think. Watching ordinary Moroccans go about their daily business was no different from watching ordinary Americans—most of us don’t want to get embroiled in politics or religion, and we certainly don’t want to be told how we should live our lives. We just want a chance to lead healthy, productive, normal lives and to give our children the same opportunity.

10. Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?

After Dead Stop comes the third book in the Sydney Parnell series, Ambush. It will be published by Thomas & Mercer in November 2018. You can find my books on digital sites such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as in bookstores like Tattered Cover and Hooked on Books.

~~~

Be sure to come back to learn more about Barbara’s novel, DEAD STOP, on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog.

~~~

Links to Barbara’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ynMm2d

I’d love to hear from readers! Please check out my blog and website at www.barbaranickless.com . Or connect with me on Twitter–@BarbaraNickless or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/barbarannickless/ . 

~~~

[image error]**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Barbara will give away a Kindle version of either Blood on the Tacks (Book 1) or Dead Stop (Book 2) to one lucky reader who comments on her **Author Peek** or Karen’s Killer Book Bench blogs.

Thanks, Barbara, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!