Eileen Harris's Blog, page 4
January 12, 2013
It's nice to wake up in the morning and find something li...
It's nice to wake up in the morning and find something like this in your email inbox. I want to thank Edie Dykeman, Mystery Books Editor and Bellaonline for taking time to review this novel. Here is part of that review:
"Desert Shadow was written by Eileen Harris, author of the intriguing Alicia Trent Mystery series including Antique Magic and Antique Forgery. The topic of human trafficking in the area along the Mexican-American border has been a subject of much debate for decades. Harris has successfully used the theme to highlight how far smugglers will go to bring illegal aliens into the country and how far others will go to protect those who are being misused.
The author’s strong sense of place brings the desert alive. Readers will feel the beauty and experience the danger inherent in such wide open landscape. Harris is able to describe the sounds and hushed movement taking place in the middle of the night in the high desert region to such a degree that readers are likely to feel shivers down their spine. The author is well acquainted with the area and it shows throughout the story line.
Desert Shadow is a captivating page-turner as well as a fairly quick read. I haven’t heard whether this is the first in a new series or not, but more stories from this area of the United States and this author would be welcomed.
A special thank you goes to Eileen Harris and Wings Press, Inc. for providing a complimentary copy of this book for our review. If you are interested in purchasing any of her books, they are available at Desert Shadow."
"Desert Shadow was written by Eileen Harris, author of the intriguing Alicia Trent Mystery series including Antique Magic and Antique Forgery. The topic of human trafficking in the area along the Mexican-American border has been a subject of much debate for decades. Harris has successfully used the theme to highlight how far smugglers will go to bring illegal aliens into the country and how far others will go to protect those who are being misused.
The author’s strong sense of place brings the desert alive. Readers will feel the beauty and experience the danger inherent in such wide open landscape. Harris is able to describe the sounds and hushed movement taking place in the middle of the night in the high desert region to such a degree that readers are likely to feel shivers down their spine. The author is well acquainted with the area and it shows throughout the story line.
Desert Shadow is a captivating page-turner as well as a fairly quick read. I haven’t heard whether this is the first in a new series or not, but more stories from this area of the United States and this author would be welcomed.
A special thank you goes to Eileen Harris and Wings Press, Inc. for providing a complimentary copy of this book for our review. If you are interested in purchasing any of her books, they are available at Desert Shadow."
December 24, 2012
Evelyn Cullet did a nice write up about the first book in...
Evelyn Cullet did a nice write up about the first book in the Alicia Trent Mystery Series, Antique Magic, on her blog today. If you'd like to take a look this is the link, evelyncullet.com/blog
Thank you Evelyn for your interest, and for helping to spread the word about this series of books.
Thank you Evelyn for your interest, and for helping to spread the word about this series of books.
December 23, 2012
I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy ...
I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy Holiday Season. I hope this year has been wonderful for all of you, and I wish you all an even better year in 2013.
I also want to thank everyone who has read my books, visited this site, or been so kind in taking an interest in my writing. Family and friends make it all possible, and readers make it all worthwhile.
I also want to thank everyone who has read my books, visited this site, or been so kind in taking an interest in my writing. Family and friends make it all possible, and readers make it all worthwhile.
December 20, 2012
Today I received the cover art for my novel Antique Disco...
Today I received the cover art for my novel Antique Discovery that will be available February 1, 2013. I really like the way it looks, and can't wait to see the actual book. I hope it doesn't look like a Western, since it's the third book in the Alicia Trent Mystery Series.
December 8, 2012
The great news came today that the third book in the Alic...
The great news came today that the third book in the Alicia Trent Mystery Series has been accepted for publication. The book called Antique Discovery will be available February 1st. This will be my fourth book published, but every single time is exciting. I will post a picture of the cover as soon as I have it.
October 26, 2012
For anyone who doesn't know November is National Writing ...
For anyone who doesn't know November is National Writing Month. This will be the fourteenth year for an event called NaNoWriMo. For those who writes or would like to write it is a fun time. Thousands join this activity to try to write the first draft of a novel in one month. The goal is to complete 50,000 words. Approximately a quarter of a million people gave it a try last year and one out of seven completes the task. As a result somewhere around 100 people have eventually had books published from their efforts over the years.
It is a great way to be part of a group of like minded people. There are lots of avenues for chatter, encouragement, and suggestions. Above and beyond that it is a sure way to motivate yourself to sit down and write. Three years ago I decided to give it a try, and I've been writing every since. My first published novel, Antique Magic, was conceived during NaNoWriMo so I know personally it is a worthwhile activity.
For dedicating one month to writing I received a certificate, my son bought me a tee shirt bragging I'd completed the goal, and I eventually published my book.
Give It A Try!
It is a great way to be part of a group of like minded people. There are lots of avenues for chatter, encouragement, and suggestions. Above and beyond that it is a sure way to motivate yourself to sit down and write. Three years ago I decided to give it a try, and I've been writing every since. My first published novel, Antique Magic, was conceived during NaNoWriMo so I know personally it is a worthwhile activity.
For dedicating one month to writing I received a certificate, my son bought me a tee shirt bragging I'd completed the goal, and I eventually published my book.
Give It A Try!
October 23, 2012
This is the latest review for Antique Forgery, the second...
This is the latest review for Antique Forgery, the second book in the Alicia Trent Series.
This is the Second book in the Alicia Trent Mystery Series. I absolutely loved the first book, Antique Magic (Read my review Here) and so I was totally pumped up to read this second instalment.
I loved it! Eileen Harris has captured my heart over the last couple of months with her Antique Magic and Desert Shadow and I am glad that Antique Forgery has managed to live up to my expectations.
I would like to point out that the writing style of the author has remained the simple yet likeable – like in her other two books. It’s with the everyday common language that Eileen Harris spins her web and this book is no exception. I felt comfortable right from the beginning. The mystery in this book has only one huge red herring, but what herring it is! I was feeling quite disappointed that the plot is so simple and certainly did not see the twist coming. I was left dumbstruck when the complete plot was revealed. Awesome is the only word that I have for it. Barry, Nick & Lawrence from book one made an appearance as expected. And though I was not sure whether I would miss Naomi’s mouthwatering dishes, Eileen delivered Laudine to keep those taste buds going haywire.
The best thing about this series is Alicia. She is one of the partners of an Antique Store in Scottsdale, Arizona – that’s her occupation. She is not an investigator by profession or by choice. But she continuously finds herself in situations that test her. Eileen Harris has built up such a practical and strong character in Alicia that when she is investigating the happenings around her, she takes the most practical and logical approach. Not once during the two books did Alicia come out as a Professional Detective, but she remained true to her character – and antique dealer with a penchant of getting into trouble. When she investigates, she is really bringing together the clues that are right in front of all of us – so it is not over the top or larger than life – yet it is something that manages to keep you guessing.
This book had two other future predictions for Alicia, so I am hoping that there’s going to be a book three in the series. So, Ms.Harris if you are reading this – please hurry up with it so I get to go on another adventure with Alicia soon. In the meantime, you all – go and give these first two books in the series a try.
Review by: Debdatta Dasgupta Sahay
This is the Second book in the Alicia Trent Mystery Series. I absolutely loved the first book, Antique Magic (Read my review Here) and so I was totally pumped up to read this second instalment.
I loved it! Eileen Harris has captured my heart over the last couple of months with her Antique Magic and Desert Shadow and I am glad that Antique Forgery has managed to live up to my expectations.
I would like to point out that the writing style of the author has remained the simple yet likeable – like in her other two books. It’s with the everyday common language that Eileen Harris spins her web and this book is no exception. I felt comfortable right from the beginning. The mystery in this book has only one huge red herring, but what herring it is! I was feeling quite disappointed that the plot is so simple and certainly did not see the twist coming. I was left dumbstruck when the complete plot was revealed. Awesome is the only word that I have for it. Barry, Nick & Lawrence from book one made an appearance as expected. And though I was not sure whether I would miss Naomi’s mouthwatering dishes, Eileen delivered Laudine to keep those taste buds going haywire.
The best thing about this series is Alicia. She is one of the partners of an Antique Store in Scottsdale, Arizona – that’s her occupation. She is not an investigator by profession or by choice. But she continuously finds herself in situations that test her. Eileen Harris has built up such a practical and strong character in Alicia that when she is investigating the happenings around her, she takes the most practical and logical approach. Not once during the two books did Alicia come out as a Professional Detective, but she remained true to her character – and antique dealer with a penchant of getting into trouble. When she investigates, she is really bringing together the clues that are right in front of all of us – so it is not over the top or larger than life – yet it is something that manages to keep you guessing.
This book had two other future predictions for Alicia, so I am hoping that there’s going to be a book three in the series. So, Ms.Harris if you are reading this – please hurry up with it so I get to go on another adventure with Alicia soon. In the meantime, you all – go and give these first two books in the series a try.
Review by: Debdatta Dasgupta Sahay
September 10, 2012
Chompasaurus Reviews Review of Antique Magic ...
Chompasaurus Reviews Review of Antique Magic Posted on September 9, 2012 by Annie Johnson Antique Magic is a Mystery Thriller by Eileen Harris. The book is developed gradually, with a lot of detail to provide a sense of a complete world in the story. The characters are ones that the reader will be able to identify with and understand. They are complete personalities that presented unique traits. It almost makes you forget for a moment that you’re reading a novel as you are thrust into these carefully constructed interactions.
What I always appreciate in a book is when there are unanswered questions, things that stir up the reader’s thought and imagination. This is often very risky for the author as not all readers will enjoy this, but it’s something that I like because it’s reflective of the real world. In reality, when there are murders and mystery, questions aren’t always answered. When an author can capture that and still successfully mix reality with fantasy by adding magic, impossible situations, and excitement, it’s something that I really appreciate.
This book is perfect for a quiet night, preferably a cold and stormy one. While you could certainly take this to the beach with you, this is a book better enjoyed at home, curled up on the couch. Mystery lovers won’t be disappointed in this book.
What I always appreciate in a book is when there are unanswered questions, things that stir up the reader’s thought and imagination. This is often very risky for the author as not all readers will enjoy this, but it’s something that I like because it’s reflective of the real world. In reality, when there are murders and mystery, questions aren’t always answered. When an author can capture that and still successfully mix reality with fantasy by adding magic, impossible situations, and excitement, it’s something that I really appreciate.
This book is perfect for a quiet night, preferably a cold and stormy one. While you could certainly take this to the beach with you, this is a book better enjoyed at home, curled up on the couch. Mystery lovers won’t be disappointed in this book.
August 14, 2012
Yes, the second book in the Alicia Trent series was publi...
Yes, the second book in the Alicia Trent series was published August 1, 2012. I am being asked over and over why it isn't yet available on Amazon. I have contacted the publisher and they tell me that they have had major problems with their computers. They also tell me that they now have a handle on the problems and Antique Forgery should be available through Amazon "soon." I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
August 10, 2012
Below is the latest review of Desert Shadow. One of...
Below is the latest review of Desert Shadow. One of the very best things about writing is when someone enjoys what I have written.
With their children were all grown up and settled in their own lives, Louise and Paul Weston had settled down in the high desert just outside Arivaca, Arizona. They had retired and were free to live their lives in their own way. They travelled, pursued their hobbies and were happy with their lives till the peace was shattered by a black SUV tried to run them off the road. Then soon their house was broken into and threats painted on their house walls. They weren’t the kind of people who would lie low and not fight back. So they soon had their own plan of action and surveillance. But once involved, they it did not take them much time to realize that the stakes were high and things were much more dangerous than they had initially thought. Not knowing who to trust and who not to trust, they soon find unexpected allies in their quest.
I had a great time reading Ms.Harris’s Antique Magic a few weeks back and so I had certain expectations from this book. I am happy to say that Ms.Harris has delivered yet another action packed page turner. Once again she managed to spin a tale that had me hooked from the very first chapter. The setting is that of a desert area and even though I have never been to any such place, I was easily able to visualize the Weston’s house and rest of the property. I learnt a bit about life in such areas and was glad that the author’s narration was detailed enough to give me a chance to understand why or how is a character blending in or standing out.
The plot was a good one and dealt with a couple of serious crimes [that I will not mention here as it would count as a spoiler] The characters were really good and loveable. Louise and Paul sure seem to have devious minds. I felt that Louise, who is an author by profession, had a mind that good at coming up with plans to counteract very uncomfortable situations. But for Paul to come up with similar plans was pleasantly surprising. I also liked George a lot. He is a tough dependable character. There are enough twists and surprises in the book to keep a person play the guessing game throughout.
I am now eagerly waiting for “Antique Forgery” – the second book in Alicia Trent Series.
By Debdatta Dasgupta Sahay
With their children were all grown up and settled in their own lives, Louise and Paul Weston had settled down in the high desert just outside Arivaca, Arizona. They had retired and were free to live their lives in their own way. They travelled, pursued their hobbies and were happy with their lives till the peace was shattered by a black SUV tried to run them off the road. Then soon their house was broken into and threats painted on their house walls. They weren’t the kind of people who would lie low and not fight back. So they soon had their own plan of action and surveillance. But once involved, they it did not take them much time to realize that the stakes were high and things were much more dangerous than they had initially thought. Not knowing who to trust and who not to trust, they soon find unexpected allies in their quest.
I had a great time reading Ms.Harris’s Antique Magic a few weeks back and so I had certain expectations from this book. I am happy to say that Ms.Harris has delivered yet another action packed page turner. Once again she managed to spin a tale that had me hooked from the very first chapter. The setting is that of a desert area and even though I have never been to any such place, I was easily able to visualize the Weston’s house and rest of the property. I learnt a bit about life in such areas and was glad that the author’s narration was detailed enough to give me a chance to understand why or how is a character blending in or standing out.
The plot was a good one and dealt with a couple of serious crimes [that I will not mention here as it would count as a spoiler] The characters were really good and loveable. Louise and Paul sure seem to have devious minds. I felt that Louise, who is an author by profession, had a mind that good at coming up with plans to counteract very uncomfortable situations. But for Paul to come up with similar plans was pleasantly surprising. I also liked George a lot. He is a tough dependable character. There are enough twists and surprises in the book to keep a person play the guessing game throughout.
I am now eagerly waiting for “Antique Forgery” – the second book in Alicia Trent Series.
By Debdatta Dasgupta Sahay
