Christa Nardi's Blog, page 38
January 1, 2020
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
It's that time of the year once again - a time to reflect on the good and the not-so-good. Overall, 2019 was a good year on all work levels - the day job and the writing. Lots of accomplishments for sure and hopefully more to come in 2020.
On the plus side, publications in 2019 included:
Dogs and More Dogs, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley Mystery #2)
Old Friends and New, Another Murder (Sheridan Hendley Mystery #3)
Deception, Denial & Murder (Stacie Maroni Mystery #3)
Plans for 2020 include the next in each of those series... I suspect that will keep me busy (and out of trouble)! Planned at least is the next in the Hannah & Tamar Series for tweens, teens, & YA, as well as a holiday - themed book for each of the other series...
I also now have a website! Check it out!
At a more global level, the frequency of hate, violence, and terrorism hasn't improved. It is sad to see the world and at home so filled with negativity. I am reminded of my high school years and the chant "Give Peace a Chance" often. At the very least, I suggest "Give Kindness a Chance" and pay it forward. As with a year ago, with all the turmoil here at home and abroad, I will strive to:
Be more positive and thoughtful of othersBe an advocate and help out others as best I canRemember to engage in random acts of kindnessBe respectful of others and their opinions, even when I disagree
On a personal level, I can't avoid the tried and true: Eat better, exercise more, lose weight... I'll add in there, take some time to relax. And since I'm behind, catching up on the books I've read, but not yet reviewed. The promise for 2020 is huge, as I step out of full-time employment and into semi-retirement (translation = more time to read and write). I'm excited for what is ahead.
What about you? What will you be working on in 2020?
WISHING YOU A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR!
December 25, 2019
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Happy Hannukah! Merry Christmas! Happy Kwanzaa!
Holiday-themed Books
It is definitely the time of the year for people of different cultures and faiths. To me, the "sentiment" I most embrace is that of "Peace on Earth" and kindness and good will to others. Unlike many, my home has both a menorah and a Christmas tree, reflecting different faiths of my family members. Each year, I enjoy the holiday-themed cozies and romances - yup, I do watch the Hallmark Channel! Here are just a few of the holiday cozies I've read in the last month ... feel free to share your favorites of the season in the comments!
Yuletide Murder: A Deadline Cozy Mystery #10 by Sonia Parin
The bridge to the mainland is down, and Eve and her guests are all stranded. So much for her quiet Christmas holiday in her Inn with friends and family. Especially when Todd Emerson is found dead. She's determined to make it the best Christmas ever, complete with tiny marshmallows, and a certain police man right after she figures out who the killer is. Lots of holiday spirit and a good pace. Quick read.
Happy Holiday Homicides :Pet Whisperer PI #9 by Molly Fitz
Angie and her new found cousin Mags are all set to enjoy the annual Holiday Spectacular in Glendale, when they discover two bodies in the ice garden. Then Mags is kidnapped. It's up to Octo-Cat, Paisley the chihuahua, and EB bunny along with a few humans to help Angie figure out the killer. This is the 9th in the Pet Whisperer PI series with a holiday theme and Angie the PI Pet Whisperer. If you like family, pets, and a bit of romance, add this one to your holiday TBR pile.
17.5 Cartridges in a Pear Tree : A Maize Albright Star Detective "Between Cases" Holiday Novella by Larissa Reinhart
Maizie is all set for New Years Eve in Black Pine, Georgia when she is spooked by someone who comes to Nash Investigations in search of the Death Necklace from one of Maizie's movies. She gave the movie prop to her dad and now people are after her to get the necklace. Between Maizie and her sister, Remi, a lot can go wrong as they try to save the necklace and catch the bad guys. As always, the characters are great and the plot includes a bit of humor as well as tension. What a way to start the New Year.
Holiday Lights Out: A Thief River Falls Cozy Mystery by Laina Turner
A short story about Stella, newly divorced and venturing out on her first adventure to see the greatest holiday lights show. Only one of the other members of the tour group dies before they reach their destination. A fun, quick read.
BEST WISHES TO YOU ALL FOR A HAPPY AND HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON FILLED WITH HEALTH, HAPPINESS AND MANY ENJOYABLE BOOKS!
It is definitely the time of the year for people of different cultures and faiths. To me, the "sentiment" I most embrace is that of "Peace on Earth" and kindness and good will to others. Unlike many, my home has both a menorah and a Christmas tree, reflecting different faiths of my family members. Each year, I enjoy the holiday-themed cozies and romances - yup, I do watch the Hallmark Channel! Here are just a few of the holiday cozies I've read in the last month ... feel free to share your favorites of the season in the comments!
Yuletide Murder: A Deadline Cozy Mystery #10 by Sonia Parin
The bridge to the mainland is down, and Eve and her guests are all stranded. So much for her quiet Christmas holiday in her Inn with friends and family. Especially when Todd Emerson is found dead. She's determined to make it the best Christmas ever, complete with tiny marshmallows, and a certain police man right after she figures out who the killer is. Lots of holiday spirit and a good pace. Quick read.
Happy Holiday Homicides :Pet Whisperer PI #9 by Molly Fitz
Angie and her new found cousin Mags are all set to enjoy the annual Holiday Spectacular in Glendale, when they discover two bodies in the ice garden. Then Mags is kidnapped. It's up to Octo-Cat, Paisley the chihuahua, and EB bunny along with a few humans to help Angie figure out the killer. This is the 9th in the Pet Whisperer PI series with a holiday theme and Angie the PI Pet Whisperer. If you like family, pets, and a bit of romance, add this one to your holiday TBR pile.
17.5 Cartridges in a Pear Tree : A Maize Albright Star Detective "Between Cases" Holiday Novella by Larissa Reinhart
Maizie is all set for New Years Eve in Black Pine, Georgia when she is spooked by someone who comes to Nash Investigations in search of the Death Necklace from one of Maizie's movies. She gave the movie prop to her dad and now people are after her to get the necklace. Between Maizie and her sister, Remi, a lot can go wrong as they try to save the necklace and catch the bad guys. As always, the characters are great and the plot includes a bit of humor as well as tension. What a way to start the New Year.
Holiday Lights Out: A Thief River Falls Cozy Mystery by Laina Turner
A short story about Stella, newly divorced and venturing out on her first adventure to see the greatest holiday lights show. Only one of the other members of the tour group dies before they reach their destination. A fun, quick read.
BEST WISHES TO YOU ALL FOR A HAPPY AND HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON FILLED WITH HEALTH, HAPPINESS AND MANY ENJOYABLE BOOKS!
December 15, 2019
RELEASE DAY: OLD FRIENDS AND NEW, ANOTHER MURDER A Sheridan Hendley Mystery #3 by Christa Nardi
CELEBRATING THE RELEASE!
Synopsis
A touch of nostalgia, a murder, and good friends.
When a former colleague is implicated in his neighbor’s demise, Sheridan Hendley returns to Cold Creek to prove his innocence. Annoying as Max can be, she can’t imagine the quirky professor is capable of murder. Unfortunately, not everyone shares her opinion. Of course, it doesn’t help that Max threatened his neighbor in a public place soon before the man was murdered. Or that the victim’s drug shipments had a habit of turning up on Max’s doorstep.
Read an excerpt:
Charlie and Bella’s barking and pawing woke me up. Even a little disgruntled, I couldn’t help but smile at the antics of my older Sheltie and the young lab mix. The smell of coffee helped, too.A glance at the clock and I groaned. I overslept. Again. The weekend and languishing a bit in bed over. Work beckoned, at least three days a week at my continuing temporary job at Millicent College. That and the joys of getting one teenager up and ready for high school.Grumbling to myself, I checked Maddie’s room on my way to the kitchen. She didn’t answer the knock on her door, so I opened it and shooed the dogs inside. She screeched and I chuckled. Definitely not a morning person. Her typical teen concern for her appearance slowed her down even more whenever she had to leave the house.“Come on, Maddie. You need to get a move on.”In the kitchen, Brett intent on his tablet. Although we were no longer newlyweds, nothing was better than waking up to this man, with his hazel eyes, dark curly hair, contagious smile, and dimples. A six-foot teddy bear unless on the job as a State Police detective or in protective mode.He quickly shifted the screen on the tablet and smiled.“Work already? Anything interesting?”“Not really.”Maddie stumbled into the kitchen. At fifteen, she portrayed a feminine version of her father, with long, dark hair and hazel eyes. With her last growth spurt, she was almost as tall as me. To her dismay, that made her taller than most of the boys in her grade, including her friend, Alex.“Maddie, stand up straight. You look great. Got all your homework?” Brett handed her a glass of orange juice as he spoke and kissed her forehead.“Thanks.” A quick glance at her watch and she emptied the glass. “Gotta run.” She grabbed her coat and raced out the door, her backpack slung over her shoulder.Brett shook his head and smiled. “She’s grown up so fast.”“For sure, and that learner’s permit is burning a hole in her wallet. In no time, she’ll be driving.”His jaw dropped and his eyes widened. “I’m not ready for that. Or boys who drive.”The ring tone of his phone halted his realizations. Work. I bustled around the kitchen and made myself a bagel. I waved one at him and he shook his head as he stashed his phone and grabbed his tablet.“Fabry. We need to go to North Shore. Something’s come up and we need to check it out.” He leaned over, kissed me, and stole a bite of my bagel. “Later.”I nodded. Detective James Fabry was his partner when something bigger than the ordinary assignments locally came up. That “something” often translated to a dead body or major drug bust or similar. Assigned to Division III in Appomattox, Brett and Fabry often caught the situations outside of the immediate area. Like Brett, Fabry had been with the State Police for many years, though he was the older and more cynical of the two. Brett’s assignment to the murder of one of my colleagues in Cold Creek was how we had met. I smiled as I recalled my time in Cold Creek, meeting Brett, and our friends. Cold Creek wasn’t that far away from Clover Hill where we lived now. Kim Pennzel was my close friend from Cold Creek. We’d worked together for almost six years and stayed in touch when I’d married Brett and moved to Clover Hill. A few years younger than me, we shared backgrounds – both psychologists, both divorced. Kim always had a lot more energy than me and sometimes acted on impulse. We talked a lot and often she and Marty would come to Clover Hill or we would go there.Charlie’s nose nudged me out of my dreams. Brett had already fed both dogs and I let them out. The temperature had dropped, not unexpected for a fall day. A quick glance at the thermometer of our weather station assured me it was chilly, but not yet cold. I poured myself another cup of coffee, settled the dogs in, and, as usual, was the last to leave the house.Like Maddie, with everything I needed in my backpack. A quick stop at the Starbucks® drive through and I was on my way. The ride through the hills from Clover Hill to the college was beautiful, the leaves on the trees beginning to turn. In the winter, the drive got a little tricky with possible black ice, especially on the two bridges. For now, I enjoyed the kaleidoscope of color and sunlight.Millicent College was a small liberal arts college like Cold Creek College. Originally it was a women’s college, hence the name. That changed in the 70s though and no one at the college remembered that earlier time at all. Least not that I had met. This was my second year as a Visiting Assistant Professor and it suited me.Unlike my position at Cold Creek College, my only responsibility was to teach assigned classes and attend a meeting or two. Like semi-retirement, though I still had a few years before I reached fifty. This schedule fit my new life style with plenty of time for Brett and Maddie, as well as to volunteer at the local dog rescue, Clover Hill Pets & Paws.I arrived early for a change, walking in with Dr. Addison, the Psychology Department Head. About my age, he had reddish blonde hair and a moustache, set off with blue eyes. His wool trench coat in deference to the weather reminded me of old westerns and made me smile.“Good morning, Dr. Hendley. You seem in a good mood this brisk morning.”“I am. How are you this morning?”“Good. Busy. Meetings and paperwork. Semester seems to be going well. Enrollment is up and the trustees are happy.” He hesitated and added, “Hopefully, the faculty and staff are as well.”I smiled as we reached the hall with his suite of offices. He nodded and disappeared, and I ducked into the large lounge area and refilled my coffee from the Keurig machine. Coffee in hand, I stopped at my office to drop things off and then was in teaching mode.I smiled at colleagues and students as I made my way back to my friend, Keurig, after class. As usual, the lounge was bustling with activity and noise, students, staff, and faculty alike. It was lunch time and the fast food venues had long lines. I got in line and watched the big screen as I waited.Mostly national news, but then the running announcements on the bottom indicated “Breaking News: State Police make discovery in North Shore, VA.” And then sports news. Frustrating. I checked my phone and no message from Brett. It was a given he and Fabry were involved in whatever was discovered and my curiosity peaked..
Excerpt from Old Friends and New, Another Murder. Copyright © 2019. All rights reserved.
The Sheridan Hendley Mysteries
A New Place, Another Murder
Dogs and More Dogs, Another Murder
Old Friends and New, Another Murder
Are you receiving my newsletter? If not, you can sign up here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Synopsis
A touch of nostalgia, a murder, and good friends.
When a former colleague is implicated in his neighbor’s demise, Sheridan Hendley returns to Cold Creek to prove his innocence. Annoying as Max can be, she can’t imagine the quirky professor is capable of murder. Unfortunately, not everyone shares her opinion. Of course, it doesn’t help that Max threatened his neighbor in a public place soon before the man was murdered. Or that the victim’s drug shipments had a habit of turning up on Max’s doorstep.
Read an excerpt:
Charlie and Bella’s barking and pawing woke me up. Even a little disgruntled, I couldn’t help but smile at the antics of my older Sheltie and the young lab mix. The smell of coffee helped, too.A glance at the clock and I groaned. I overslept. Again. The weekend and languishing a bit in bed over. Work beckoned, at least three days a week at my continuing temporary job at Millicent College. That and the joys of getting one teenager up and ready for high school.Grumbling to myself, I checked Maddie’s room on my way to the kitchen. She didn’t answer the knock on her door, so I opened it and shooed the dogs inside. She screeched and I chuckled. Definitely not a morning person. Her typical teen concern for her appearance slowed her down even more whenever she had to leave the house.“Come on, Maddie. You need to get a move on.”In the kitchen, Brett intent on his tablet. Although we were no longer newlyweds, nothing was better than waking up to this man, with his hazel eyes, dark curly hair, contagious smile, and dimples. A six-foot teddy bear unless on the job as a State Police detective or in protective mode.He quickly shifted the screen on the tablet and smiled.“Work already? Anything interesting?”“Not really.”Maddie stumbled into the kitchen. At fifteen, she portrayed a feminine version of her father, with long, dark hair and hazel eyes. With her last growth spurt, she was almost as tall as me. To her dismay, that made her taller than most of the boys in her grade, including her friend, Alex.“Maddie, stand up straight. You look great. Got all your homework?” Brett handed her a glass of orange juice as he spoke and kissed her forehead.“Thanks.” A quick glance at her watch and she emptied the glass. “Gotta run.” She grabbed her coat and raced out the door, her backpack slung over her shoulder.Brett shook his head and smiled. “She’s grown up so fast.”“For sure, and that learner’s permit is burning a hole in her wallet. In no time, she’ll be driving.”His jaw dropped and his eyes widened. “I’m not ready for that. Or boys who drive.”The ring tone of his phone halted his realizations. Work. I bustled around the kitchen and made myself a bagel. I waved one at him and he shook his head as he stashed his phone and grabbed his tablet.“Fabry. We need to go to North Shore. Something’s come up and we need to check it out.” He leaned over, kissed me, and stole a bite of my bagel. “Later.”I nodded. Detective James Fabry was his partner when something bigger than the ordinary assignments locally came up. That “something” often translated to a dead body or major drug bust or similar. Assigned to Division III in Appomattox, Brett and Fabry often caught the situations outside of the immediate area. Like Brett, Fabry had been with the State Police for many years, though he was the older and more cynical of the two. Brett’s assignment to the murder of one of my colleagues in Cold Creek was how we had met. I smiled as I recalled my time in Cold Creek, meeting Brett, and our friends. Cold Creek wasn’t that far away from Clover Hill where we lived now. Kim Pennzel was my close friend from Cold Creek. We’d worked together for almost six years and stayed in touch when I’d married Brett and moved to Clover Hill. A few years younger than me, we shared backgrounds – both psychologists, both divorced. Kim always had a lot more energy than me and sometimes acted on impulse. We talked a lot and often she and Marty would come to Clover Hill or we would go there.Charlie’s nose nudged me out of my dreams. Brett had already fed both dogs and I let them out. The temperature had dropped, not unexpected for a fall day. A quick glance at the thermometer of our weather station assured me it was chilly, but not yet cold. I poured myself another cup of coffee, settled the dogs in, and, as usual, was the last to leave the house.Like Maddie, with everything I needed in my backpack. A quick stop at the Starbucks® drive through and I was on my way. The ride through the hills from Clover Hill to the college was beautiful, the leaves on the trees beginning to turn. In the winter, the drive got a little tricky with possible black ice, especially on the two bridges. For now, I enjoyed the kaleidoscope of color and sunlight.Millicent College was a small liberal arts college like Cold Creek College. Originally it was a women’s college, hence the name. That changed in the 70s though and no one at the college remembered that earlier time at all. Least not that I had met. This was my second year as a Visiting Assistant Professor and it suited me.Unlike my position at Cold Creek College, my only responsibility was to teach assigned classes and attend a meeting or two. Like semi-retirement, though I still had a few years before I reached fifty. This schedule fit my new life style with plenty of time for Brett and Maddie, as well as to volunteer at the local dog rescue, Clover Hill Pets & Paws.I arrived early for a change, walking in with Dr. Addison, the Psychology Department Head. About my age, he had reddish blonde hair and a moustache, set off with blue eyes. His wool trench coat in deference to the weather reminded me of old westerns and made me smile.“Good morning, Dr. Hendley. You seem in a good mood this brisk morning.”“I am. How are you this morning?”“Good. Busy. Meetings and paperwork. Semester seems to be going well. Enrollment is up and the trustees are happy.” He hesitated and added, “Hopefully, the faculty and staff are as well.”I smiled as we reached the hall with his suite of offices. He nodded and disappeared, and I ducked into the large lounge area and refilled my coffee from the Keurig machine. Coffee in hand, I stopped at my office to drop things off and then was in teaching mode.I smiled at colleagues and students as I made my way back to my friend, Keurig, after class. As usual, the lounge was bustling with activity and noise, students, staff, and faculty alike. It was lunch time and the fast food venues had long lines. I got in line and watched the big screen as I waited.Mostly national news, but then the running announcements on the bottom indicated “Breaking News: State Police make discovery in North Shore, VA.” And then sports news. Frustrating. I checked my phone and no message from Brett. It was a given he and Fabry were involved in whatever was discovered and my curiosity peaked..
Excerpt from Old Friends and New, Another Murder. Copyright © 2019. All rights reserved.
The Sheridan Hendley Mysteries
A New Place, Another Murder
Dogs and More Dogs, Another Murder
Old Friends and New, Another Murder
Are you receiving my newsletter? If not, you can sign up here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
December 6, 2019
Book Review: A CHRISTMAS QUICK SKETCH: A Cherry Tucker Holiday Prequel Caper (A Cherry Tucker Mystery Book) by Larissa Reinhart
SynopsisSassy Southern artist Cherry Tucker and her poker-loving boyfriend, Todd, pop into Memphis to help Todd’s cousin who’s been hustled out of his savings, right before Christmas. Staying at the shady Heartache Motel, Cherry can’t tell a shill from a mark and fears everyone is playing them for chumps. Cherry and Todd quickly find themselves in a dangerous sting that could send them to the slammer or mark them as pigeons from cons looking for an even bigger score.
For a fun-filled romp through a gritty gambler's view of Memphis, grab Cherry's Christmas caper today!
Review
Cherry and Todd are on their way to a VIP Poker match in Vegas, but stop off in Memphis to help out Todd's cousin, Barry. He managed to lose everything in a poker game and now his kids and wife won't have a merry Christmas. Todd decides it's time for a sting operation and connects with some shady characters, flashing a lot of money around and losing. Add in an Elvis or two, and a few other 'unusual' characters, and this is a fun, quick read. The bigger question: Is Cherry able to let go of her lifetime love and make things work with Todd?
If you're looking for a quick, light read, with a few surprises along the way, you will enjoy this one.
AMAZON
A Cherry Tucker Mystery Series
A CHRISTMAS QUICK SKETCH (prequel)
PORTRAIT OF A DEAD GUY
STILL LIFE IN BRUNSWICK STEW
HIJACK IN ABSTRACT
THE VIGILANTE VIGNETTE
DEATH IN PERSPECTIVE
THE BODY IN THE LANDSCAPE
A VIEW TO A CHILL
A COMPOSITION IN MURDER
December 3, 2019
Blog Tour: SECRETS AND LIES A Claire Callahan Mystery by P. H. Turner
Synposis
Shot to death in his home, Morgan Tutwiler leaves behind a multimillion-dollar business and a daughter who hasn’t spoken to him in years. And she isn’t alone in wanting him dead. Plenty of people wanted the most hated man in Denver dead in P. H. Turner’s latest novel in the Claire Callahan series.
Reminiscent of the finest gumshoe storytelling, Secrets and Lies, would not be complete without Turner’s signature quirky characters and inventive plot.
Review
Claire Callahan is a PI for a law firm, and doesn't always like her job, though she does like her boss, Marsh, and a detective, Rafe. Morgan Tutwiler is a large account and the man managed to make many enemies. He had one daughter, who would inherit when he was killed and she'd moved away and had no contact with her father for some time. Claire's job was to 'babysit' Amanda and get her through the ordeal without being blamed for her father's death. The problem is, Amanda - and her adoring boyfriend - have the greatest motive of all. And the boyfriend, James? True to the title, almost all the suspects have secrets and lies. Aside from Amanda herself and James, there's the family he caused so much grief to, the father committing suicide. His son is trying to re-invent the company and make a go of it, only he has his own secrets. Claire is chasing down all the possibles and at each turn, there is another lie or secret. In between, she's dealing with her father, who she's only had minimal contact with since she was 6 years old. And he has secrets too.
The story is well-paced and well-crafted. The reader knows who the killer is from the start, though not why he's killed Tutwiler or how he's connected. That's the mystery that Claire has to unravel to uncover his existence. There are twists and turns, with connections being made at a steady pace. Claire knows there's something under the surface she's missing. She doesn't give up until she finds the link. This was a good read, more classic mystery than cozy, and looks to be the first in a new series. I liked Claire and will be looking for the next in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in the hopes that I would post an honest review. This has not affected the content of my review in any way.
Purchase Link – Amazon
About P.H. Turner
P.H. Turner writes mystery and suspense novels set in the mountains and canyons of the West where she grew up and spent most of her working life. Pat worked in broadcast journalism on both coasts, the Midwest, and the Rocky Mountains. With roots to a Texas farm homesteaded in the 1850s, she’s returned to live within miles of the old farm.
Pat is a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America.
Author Links
Website – https://www.phturner.com/
GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8135186.P_H_Turner
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/P.H.TurnerAuthor
Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/P.H.-Turner/e/B00NZ8RW0K
a Rafflecopter giveaway
TOUR PARTICIPANTS
December 2 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT
December 3 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW
December 4 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT
December 5 – Mysteries with Character – GUEST POST
December 5 – My Reading Journeys – CHARACTER GUEST POST
December 6 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT
December 7 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
December 8 – Baroness” Book Trove – REVIEW
December 9 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT
December 10 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW, GUEST POST
December 10 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW
December 11 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT
December 12 – Diane Reviews Books – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW
December 12 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW
December 13 – StoreyBook Reviews – CHARACTER GUEST POST
December 14 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT
December 15 – Readeropolis – CHARACTER INTERVIEW
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November 28, 2019
GIVING THANKS 2019
Each year I use this time of the year to "count my blessing" and be thankful - for even the simple things in life. . . How about you?
I am thankful for my family - for my sisters and brother, my husband, his kids and our grandkids, my brother-in-law Zvi, my step-mother, my nephews and my cousins and their collective families. And, and of course, our three dogs - Sparky, Princess, and Bailey.
I am thankful for my friends - some of whom I see more frequently than others, some of whom I've know longer than others. Keeping in touch is definitely easier with social media.
I am thankful for my health, for the health of those around me. I am thankful when I see our veterans and active military. I am thankful when someone does something nice for me or I see someone do something nice for someone else.
I am thankful for readers and other writers who have supported my writing efforts and provide motivation to keep writing.
Each year, I say the same thing, and then forget. Maybe next year, I'll look at each day and identify something I am thankful for.
For those of you who share this American tradition with turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes and green bean casserole... I hope you, too, are having a great Thanksgiving with friends and family.
November 27, 2019
Book Review: DINNER AND A MURDER A Nikki Hunter Mystery #3 by Nancy Skopin
Synopsis
Dinner & A Murder is the third book in a mystery series featuring Nicoli "Nikki" Hunter, a Private Investigator specializing in covert bar and restaurant surveillance.
After surviving two attempts on her life, Nikki decides to do something normal for a change and attend her high school reunion. While there she becomes reacquainted with an old flame, Paul Marks, who is now an air traffic control supervisor. Nikki agrees to have lunch with Paul the following day, and over lunch she becomes convinced that something is terribly wrong. After a few beers and a little persuading, Paul confides that three controllers reporting to him have died in the last two months, under suspicious circumstances.
Nikki insists on looking into the deaths and, with the help of her former mentor, Sam Pettigrew, soon discovers that Paul himself is the target of a ruthless assassin. So much for normal. In an effort to save Paul, Nikki must, once again, put her own life on the line.
Review
A compelling read, Nikki gets involved in what looks like a serial killer of Air Traffic Controllers when an old classmate asks for help. It may be coincidence, but then an attempt is made on Paul's life. This is fast moving with some POV of the killer mixed in with Nikki's own conflicts over commitment, her high school best friend's unhappy marriage and her quirky mentor, Sam Pettigrew. In her between, Nicki is working covert bar and restaurant surveillance, eating and drinking in multiple places - what a job!
Nikki is an unpretentious and likable character dealing with her own issues, including quitting smoking. This is the third in the series, but my first and it easily can be read as a stand-alone. That said, you still might want to start at the beginning of the series and keep going. Beware: This is not a cozy - adult language and some may find this offensive.
The Nikki Hunter Mystery Series
Murder on the Menu (#1)Murder Over Cocktails (#2)Dinner and a Murder (#3)Murder a la Carte (#4)Murder Served Hot (#5)A Side Order of Murder (#6)Murder Alfresco (#7)Murder Served Cold (#8)Murder Served Al Dente (#9)
Dinner & A Murder is the third book in a mystery series featuring Nicoli "Nikki" Hunter, a Private Investigator specializing in covert bar and restaurant surveillance.
After surviving two attempts on her life, Nikki decides to do something normal for a change and attend her high school reunion. While there she becomes reacquainted with an old flame, Paul Marks, who is now an air traffic control supervisor. Nikki agrees to have lunch with Paul the following day, and over lunch she becomes convinced that something is terribly wrong. After a few beers and a little persuading, Paul confides that three controllers reporting to him have died in the last two months, under suspicious circumstances.
Nikki insists on looking into the deaths and, with the help of her former mentor, Sam Pettigrew, soon discovers that Paul himself is the target of a ruthless assassin. So much for normal. In an effort to save Paul, Nikki must, once again, put her own life on the line.
Review
A compelling read, Nikki gets involved in what looks like a serial killer of Air Traffic Controllers when an old classmate asks for help. It may be coincidence, but then an attempt is made on Paul's life. This is fast moving with some POV of the killer mixed in with Nikki's own conflicts over commitment, her high school best friend's unhappy marriage and her quirky mentor, Sam Pettigrew. In her between, Nicki is working covert bar and restaurant surveillance, eating and drinking in multiple places - what a job!
Nikki is an unpretentious and likable character dealing with her own issues, including quitting smoking. This is the third in the series, but my first and it easily can be read as a stand-alone. That said, you still might want to start at the beginning of the series and keep going. Beware: This is not a cozy - adult language and some may find this offensive.
The Nikki Hunter Mystery Series
Murder on the Menu (#1)Murder Over Cocktails (#2)Dinner and a Murder (#3)Murder a la Carte (#4)Murder Served Hot (#5)A Side Order of Murder (#6)Murder Alfresco (#7)Murder Served Cold (#8)Murder Served Al Dente (#9)
Book Review: DINNER AND MURDER A Nikki Hunter Mystery #3 by Nancy Skopin
Synopsis
Dinner & A Murder is the third book in a mystery series featuring Nicoli "Nikki" Hunter, a Private Investigator specializing in covert bar and restaurant surveillance.
After surviving two attempts on her life, Nikki decides to do something normal for a change and attend her high school reunion. While there she becomes reacquainted with an old flame, Paul Marks, who is now an air traffic control supervisor. Nikki agrees to have lunch with Paul the following day, and over lunch she becomes convinced that something is terribly wrong. After a few beers and a little persuading, Paul confides that three controllers reporting to him have died in the last two months, under suspicious circumstances.
Nikki insists on looking into the deaths and, with the help of her former mentor, Sam Pettigrew, soon discovers that Paul himself is the target of a ruthless assassin. So much for normal. In an effort to save Paul, Nikki must, once again, put her own life on the line.
Review
A compelling read, Nikki gets involved in what looks like a serial killer of Air Traffic Controllers when an old classmate asks for help. It may be coincidence, but then an attempt is made on Paul's life. This is fast moving with some POV of the killer mixed in with Nikki's own conflicts over commitment, her high school best friend's unhappy marriage and her quirky mentor, Sam Pettigrew. In her between, Nicki is working covert bar and restaurant surveillance, eating and drinking in multiple places - what a job!
Nikki is an unpretentious and likable character dealing with her own issues, including quitting smoking. This is the third in the series, but my first and it easily can be read as a stand-alone. That said, you still might want to start at the beginning of the series and keep going. Beware: This is not a cozy - adult language and some may find this offensive.
The Nikki Hunter Mystery Series Murder on the Menu (#1)Murder Over Cocktails (#2)Dinner and a Murder (#3)Murder a la Carte (#4)Murder Served Hot (#5)A Side Order of Murder (#6)Murder Alfresco (#7)Murder Served Cold (#8)Murder Served Al Dente (#9)
Dinner & A Murder is the third book in a mystery series featuring Nicoli "Nikki" Hunter, a Private Investigator specializing in covert bar and restaurant surveillance.
After surviving two attempts on her life, Nikki decides to do something normal for a change and attend her high school reunion. While there she becomes reacquainted with an old flame, Paul Marks, who is now an air traffic control supervisor. Nikki agrees to have lunch with Paul the following day, and over lunch she becomes convinced that something is terribly wrong. After a few beers and a little persuading, Paul confides that three controllers reporting to him have died in the last two months, under suspicious circumstances.
Nikki insists on looking into the deaths and, with the help of her former mentor, Sam Pettigrew, soon discovers that Paul himself is the target of a ruthless assassin. So much for normal. In an effort to save Paul, Nikki must, once again, put her own life on the line.
Review
A compelling read, Nikki gets involved in what looks like a serial killer of Air Traffic Controllers when an old classmate asks for help. It may be coincidence, but then an attempt is made on Paul's life. This is fast moving with some POV of the killer mixed in with Nikki's own conflicts over commitment, her high school best friend's unhappy marriage and her quirky mentor, Sam Pettigrew. In her between, Nicki is working covert bar and restaurant surveillance, eating and drinking in multiple places - what a job!
Nikki is an unpretentious and likable character dealing with her own issues, including quitting smoking. This is the third in the series, but my first and it easily can be read as a stand-alone. That said, you still might want to start at the beginning of the series and keep going. Beware: This is not a cozy - adult language and some may find this offensive.
The Nikki Hunter Mystery Series Murder on the Menu (#1)Murder Over Cocktails (#2)Dinner and a Murder (#3)Murder a la Carte (#4)Murder Served Hot (#5)A Side Order of Murder (#6)Murder Alfresco (#7)Murder Served Cold (#8)Murder Served Al Dente (#9)
November 23, 2019
Blog Tour & Spotlight: COZY FOOD : 128 Cozy Mystery Writers Share Their Favorite Recipes Edited by Nancy Lynn Jarvis
A change of pace - happy cooking (and eating)!
Cozy Food: 128 Cozy Mystery Writers Share Their Favorite Recipes
Cozy Cookbook
Good Read Mysteries (May 15, 2014)
Number of Pages: 241 (167 of recipes, 70 of contributor bios and books)
ISBN-10: 0983589178
ISBN-13: 978-0983589174
Kindle ASIN: B00KGZSEQ6
Editor Nancy Lynn Jarvis was a Santa Cruz, California, Realtor® for more than twenty years before she fell in love with writing and let her license lapse.
After earning a BA in behavioral science from San Jose State University, she worked in the advertising department of the San Jose Mercury News. A move to Santa Cruz meant a new job as a librarian and later a stint as the business manager for Shakespeare/Santa Cruz at UCSC.
Nancy’s work history reflects her philosophy: people should try something radically different every few years, a philosophy she applies to her writing, as well. She has written seven Regan McHenry Real Estate Mysteries; a stand-alone novel “Mags and the AARP Gang” about a group of octogenarian bank robbers; edited “Cozy Food: 128 Cozy Mystery Writers Share Their Favorite Recipes” and a short story anthology, “Santa Cruz Weird;” and even done a little insider’s book, “The Truth About Hosting Airbnb” about her first year as a host.
Her newest venture is “The Glass House” is the first book in a planned series of PIP Inc. Mysteries. Now she’s trying to figure out when to work on another series she’d love to do called “Geezers with Tools” about two older handymen who will solve mysteries in the course of doing their work, and setting up writer retreats at her house.
Editor Links
Website – https://www.nancylynnjarvis.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn
GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2918242.Nancy_Lynn_Jarvis
Purchase – Amazon - Kindle - Amazon Paperback
a Rafflecopter giveaway
TOUR PARTICIPANTS
November 13 – Laura's Interests – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 13 – LibriAmoriMiei - REVIEW
November 14 – Here's How It Happened - REVIEW
November 15 – Reading Authors Network – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 16 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW
November 17 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 18 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT
November 18 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW
November 19 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, INTERVIEW
November 19 – Sapphyria's Books – REVIEW
November 20 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 21 – Reading Is My SuperPower – SPOTLIGHT
November 21 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – INTERVIEW
November 22 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
November 22 – Teresa Trent Author Blog – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 23 – Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
November 23 – Christa Reads and Writes – SPOTLIGHT
November 24 – Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
November 25 – Ruff Drafts – REVIEW
November 26 – Baroness' Book Trove - REVIEW
November 26 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT
November 27 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT
Cozy Food: 128 Cozy Mystery Writers Share Their Favorite Recipes
Cozy Cookbook
Good Read Mysteries (May 15, 2014)
Number of Pages: 241 (167 of recipes, 70 of contributor bios and books)
ISBN-10: 0983589178
ISBN-13: 978-0983589174
Kindle ASIN: B00KGZSEQ6
What happens when 128 cozy mystery writers get together to do a cookbook? You get more than 220 recipes that are as varied and interesting as an amateur sleuth’s day job.
Regional recipes come from every part of the United States and England — a couple find their way from Australia and Italy, too — and from diverse times. There are recipes from people looking to keep gluten out of their lives, eat vegetarian, or make a treat or two for their furry four-legged friends. And yes, there are recipes that appeal to the sweet tooth, lots of them, in fact.
There’s no mystery about what happens when cozy writers get together. They bring the wit, inventiveness, and adventure found in their books right along with their recipes.
The recipes are introduced by their authors and linked to the writer bios in the back of the book
You can look up your favorite cozy writer and see which recipes are their favorites; they'll tell you what the recipe means to them. Or you can enjoy a dish and then link to the recipe's author's biography and books.
Either way you enjoy the cookbook, you're sure to find great new recipes to make and terrific new cozy authors to read.
Contributing Authors: Sparkle Abbey, Ellery Adams, (aka J. B. Stanley, Jennifer Stanley) Judy Alter, Marian Allen, Ritter Ames, Donna Andrews, Traci Andrighetti, Amy Beth Arkawy, Mignon F. Ballard, Sandra Balzo, JoAnn Bassett, Cynthia Baxter, (aka Cynthia Blair) Jenna Bennett, (aka Jennie Bentley) Sally Berneathy, (aka Sally Carleen, Sally Steward, Sara Garrett) Maggie Bishop, Cindy Blackburn, Juliet Blackwell, Susan Furlong Bollinger, Sheila Webster Boneham, Laura Bradford, Frances Brody, Duffy Brown, Joyce Ann Brown, Mollie Bryan, B.B. Cantwell, Laurie Cass, (aka Laura Alden) Nancy J. Cohen, Shelley Costa, Judith Cutler, Rebecca (aka R.P.) Dahlke, Kathi Daley, Kathleen Delaney, Diana Dempsey, Pamela Frost Dennis, Lesley A. Diehl, Leighann Dobbs, Vicki Doudera, Pamela DuMond, Carola Dunn, Jean Erhardt, Chloe Evans, Monica Ferris, (aka Margaret Frazer, Mary Monica Pulver, Mary Kuhfeld) Judy Fitzwater, Chris Forman, Kaye George, Sally Goldenbaum, Barbara Graham, Sarah Graves, Carolyn Haines, (aka R.B. Chesterton) Vinnie Hansen, Traci Hilton, Sibel Hodge, Valerie Horowitz, Mary Ellen Hughes, Linda Joffe Hull, Ellen Elizabeth Hunter, Dawn Greenfield Ireland, Melanie Jackson, Holly Jacobs, Miranda James, (aka Dean James) Nancy Lynn Jarvis, Heather Justesen, Pamela Kelley, E.E. Kennedy, Mary Kennedy, Josi S. Kilpack, Kelly Klepfer, (aka Michelle Griep, Ellie Marks) Barbara Lee Cool, Marilyn Levinson, Liz Lipperman, Gail Lukasik, Elaine Macko, Sylvia Massara, Sonja Massie, (aka G.A. McKevett) Edith Maxwell, (aka Tace Baker) Lorena McCourtney, Marja McGraw, Eileen Haavik McIntire, Staci McLaughlin, Catriona McPherson, Camille Minichino, (aka Margaret Grace, Ada Madison) Marie Moore, Ruth Moose, Amy Myers, Tamar Myers, Christa Nardi, Radine Trees Nehring, Kerri Nelson, Clare O’Donohue, Diana Orgain, Joyce Oroz, Elaine L. Orr, Helen Osterman, Gail Oust, K.B. Owen, Sharon Pape, Nancy J. Parra, (aka Nancy J. Coco) Allison Cesario Paton, Joanne Pence, Maggie Pill, Ann Purser, Melissa Bourbon Ramirez, (aka Melissa Bourbon) Nanci Rathbun, Rosalee Richland, Becky Lyn Rickman, Karen Robbins, Carolyn J. Rose, Pamela Rose, Cindy Sample, June Shaw, Connie Shelton, Clea Simon, Joanna Campbell Slan, Karen Rose Smith, Lane Stone, Maria Grazia Swan, Denise Swanson, Marcia Talley, Nancy Jill Thames, Sharon Burch Toner, Elaine Viets, Lea Wait, Wendy Lyn Watson, (aka Annie Knox) Christine Wenger, Gayle Wigglesworth, Lois Winston, Joan H. Young, Suzanne Young
Editor Nancy Lynn Jarvis was a Santa Cruz, California, Realtor® for more than twenty years before she fell in love with writing and let her license lapse.After earning a BA in behavioral science from San Jose State University, she worked in the advertising department of the San Jose Mercury News. A move to Santa Cruz meant a new job as a librarian and later a stint as the business manager for Shakespeare/Santa Cruz at UCSC.
Nancy’s work history reflects her philosophy: people should try something radically different every few years, a philosophy she applies to her writing, as well. She has written seven Regan McHenry Real Estate Mysteries; a stand-alone novel “Mags and the AARP Gang” about a group of octogenarian bank robbers; edited “Cozy Food: 128 Cozy Mystery Writers Share Their Favorite Recipes” and a short story anthology, “Santa Cruz Weird;” and even done a little insider’s book, “The Truth About Hosting Airbnb” about her first year as a host.
Her newest venture is “The Glass House” is the first book in a planned series of PIP Inc. Mysteries. Now she’s trying to figure out when to work on another series she’d love to do called “Geezers with Tools” about two older handymen who will solve mysteries in the course of doing their work, and setting up writer retreats at her house.
Editor Links
Website – https://www.nancylynnjarvis.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn
GoodReads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2918242.Nancy_Lynn_Jarvis
Purchase – Amazon - Kindle - Amazon Paperback
a Rafflecopter giveaway
TOUR PARTICIPANTS
November 13 – Laura's Interests – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 13 – LibriAmoriMiei - REVIEW
November 14 – Here's How It Happened - REVIEW
November 15 – Reading Authors Network – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 16 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW
November 17 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 18 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT
November 18 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW
November 19 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, INTERVIEW
November 19 – Sapphyria's Books – REVIEW
November 20 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 21 – Reading Is My SuperPower – SPOTLIGHT
November 21 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – INTERVIEW
November 22 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
November 22 – Teresa Trent Author Blog – REVIEW, RECIPE POST
November 23 – Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
November 23 – Christa Reads and Writes – SPOTLIGHT
November 24 – Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
November 25 – Ruff Drafts – REVIEW
November 26 – Baroness' Book Trove - REVIEW
November 26 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT
November 27 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT
November 19, 2019
Spotlight: A BAD HAIR DAY COOKBOOK Recipes from Nancy J. Cohen's Cozy Mystery Series
A Bad Hair Day CookbookRecipes from Nancy J. Cohen’s Cozy Mystery SeriesAre you having a bad hair day? Whip out your whisk, snatch up your spoon, and prepare your palate. Inside the pages of this cookbook are recipes that will bring you good cheer.
Enjoy 160+ tasty recipes from Nancy J. Cohen’s popular Bad Hair Day cozy mystery series. Included in this cookbook are excerpts, cooking tips, and anecdotes written by hairstylist and savvy sleuth Marla Vail. From appetizers to desserts, Marla offers cooking tips and tricks along with commentary about the dishes she prepares for her family. Whether you’re a skilled cook or an eager novice, this cookbook will unravel the mystery of cooking. Put on your apron and plan to make some killer recipes!
Bonuses Include:
• Meet the Sleuth
• Introduction by Marla Vail
• Cooking Tips
• Excerpts from Series Titles
• Themed Menu Suggestions
• “A Sabbath Dinner” by Nancy’s Mother
Release Date: November 19, 2019
Digital ISBN: 978-0-9997932-4-4, Orange Grove Press, $4.99
Print ISBN: 978-0-9997932-5-1, Orange Grove Press, $15.99
Cover Design by Boulevard Photografica
Digital Layout by www.formatting4U.com
“Being an empty nester for over a decade, I got out of the habit of cooking and my husband and I eat out all the time. Reading through this cookbook has revived my interest in getting back in the kitchen.” Rhonda Gilliland, Author and Editor of the Cooked to Death Series
“Mysteries and cookbooks belong side by side on readers’ shelves. After untimely death unleashes chaos in fiction, recipe rituals, meal routines, and dining etiquette offer a semblance of civility to restore balance. A Bad Hair Day Cookbook serves up both food and justice.” Christine A. Jackson, Ph.D., Author of Myth and Ritual in Women’s Detective Fiction
“Fans of Nancy Cohen’s prior books already know that her Bad Hair Day series of cozy mysteries are compelling reads, but A Bad Hair Day Cookbook offers something different in presenting recipes by ‘Marla Vail’, the fictional Florida hairstylist and salon owner whose exploits power Cohen’s Bad Hair Day series. These recipes are anything but fictional, however. They not only supplement the series with a fun nonfiction twist, but emphasize Nancy J. Cohen’s original creations (along with recipes from friends and family), designed for busy cooks who may not be out solving crimes, but whose time is equally challenged.” Diane Donovan, Midwest Book Review
Buy Links
Amazon:
Apple Books:
BN Nook:
Kobo:
Books2Read:
Goodreads
Print Edition from Ingram Coming Soon!
Nancy J. Cohen writes the Bad Hair Day Mysteries featuring South Florida hairstylist Marla Vail. Titles in this series have been named Best Cozy Mystery by Suspense Magazine, won a Readers' Favorite Gold Medal, earned first place in the Chanticleer International Book Awards and third place in the Arizona Literary Awards, and finaled in the American Fiction Awards. Nancy’s instructional guide, Writing the Cozy Mystery, has been nominated for an Agatha Award and won a gold medal in the President’s Book Awards from Florida Authors and Publishers Association. A featured speaker at libraries, conferences, and community events, Nancy is listed in Contemporary Authors, Poets & Writers, and Who's Who in U.S. Writers, Editors, & Poets. When not busy writing, she enjoys cooking, fine dining, cruising, visiting Disney World, and shopping.
Contact Nancy at nancy@nancyjcohen.com
NancyJCohen.com
