Babs Hightower's Blog, page 46

December 3, 2017

The Culinary Art of Murder (The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries) by Heather Haven spot light and giveaway


The Culinary Art of Murder (The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries)

by Heather Haven

I’ve been a long-time fan of the Alvarez Family (since finding her first book on Bookbub a few years ago) and enjoy Ms. Haven’s sense of humor as she spins her stories for us readers.

~Cinnamon, Sugar and a Little Bit of Murder




The Culinary Art of Murder (The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries)

Cozy Mystery

6th in Series

The Wives of Bath Press (November 27, 2017)

Print Length: 281 pages

E-Book ASIN: B076HDD3JY


Lee’s Uncle ‘Tío’ is smitten with a visiting chef at a Silicon Valley culinary arts institute. When the lady is arrested for two murders, a fellow chef and the dishwasher, Lee Alvarez, lead investigator for Discretionary Inquiries, Inc., the family owned detective agency, agrees to help find the real killer. But undercover work at the institute proves to be more difficult than whipping up a chocolate soufflé. The killer tries to get Lee out of the way and permanently. But just who is it? The lady chef? One of her two sons? Or one of the other inmates from a cooking school with secrets as plentiful as sauces? Can Lee find the real killer before her own goose is cooked? And if it turns out to be the ambitious southern belle chef, will Tío ever forgive Lee for sending his new lady love to jail?



About the Author


After studying drama at the University of Miami in Miami, Florida, Heather went to Manhattan to pursue a career. There she wrote short stories, novels, comedy acts, television treatments, ad copy, commercials, and two one-act plays, produced at several places, such as Playwrights Horizon. Once she even ghostwrote a book on how to run an employment agency. She was unemployed at the time.


One of her first paying jobs was writing a love story for a book published by Bantam called Moments of Love. She had a deadline of one week but promptly came down with the flu. Heather wrote “The Sands of Time” with a raging temperature, and delivered some pretty hot stuff because of it. Her stint at New York City’s No Soap Radio – where she wrote comedic ad copy – help develop her long-time love affair with comedy.


Her first novel of the humorous Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries, Murder is a Family Business, is winner of the Single Titles Reviewers’ Choice Award 2011. The second, A Wedding to Die For, received finalist nods from both Global and EPIC’s for Best eBook Mystery of the Year, 2012. It also won the Editors and Predators silver, 2012. The third of the series, Death Runs in the Family, won the Global Gold 2013. The fourth installment, Dead…If Only, won Global Silver 2015. The CEO Came DOA, Book Five, won the Global Gold Medal 2017 and Dan Poynter Legacy Award 2017. The Culinary Art of Murder, is the sixth book of the series.


Author Links


 


Website: http://heatherhavenstories.com/


Heather’s Blog:    http://heatherhavenstories.com/blog/


Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/HeatherHavenStories


Twitter – https://www.twitter.com/Twitter@HeatherHaven


Sign up for Heather’s newsletter at:


http://heatherhavenstories.com/subscribe-via-email/


Purchase Link – Amazon 


a Rafflecopter giveaway




The post The Culinary Art of Murder (The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries) by Heather Haven spot light and giveaway appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on December 03, 2017 12:47

Altered To Death (A Faith Hunter Scrap This Mystery) by Christina Freeburn, blog tour, giveaway and spotlight


Altered To Death (A Faith Hunter Scrap This Mystery)

by Christina Freeburn



Altered To Death (A Faith Hunter Scrap This Mystery)

Cozy Mystery

6th in Series

Henery Press (November 28, 2017)

Paperback: 276 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1635112795

E-Book ASIN: B0758DG23P


Looking for a craft cozy so memorable you’ll stay up late scrapping about it? Well, welcome to the town of Eden.


Faith Hunter, who is supposed to be planning her wedding, instead finds herself distracted by the town scrapbook she was commissioned to create. Eden’s oldest mystery, the founding family’s exodus nearly a hundred years ago, remains unsolved.


A search through the family’s abandoned mansion leads to the uncovering of bones on that very property. And then ex-boyfriend Steve Davis announces a surprise heir has staked a claim.


How can Faith not be distracted? Now she’s determined to dig up the truth left behind.


Because scrappers are multi-taskers extraordinaire, Faith can’t say no when family friend Wyatt Buford asks her to look into his deadbeat father’s disappearing act and his connection to the murder.


Her quest for answers unearths secrets past and present that some would prefer stay buried at any cost. Faith’s resolve to present the facts and nothing but about Eden’s history could lead to her own future being cut short.


See what I mean about memorable? Delve in to Eden and you’ll find a cozy you won’t soon forget.


 


a Rafflecopter giveaway



About the Author


The Faith Hunter Scrap This Mystery series brings together Christina Freeburn’s love of mysteries, scrapbooking, and West Virginia. When not writing or reading, she can be found in her scrapbook room or at a crop. Alas, none of the real-life crops have had a sexy male prosecutor or a handsome police officer attending.


Christina served in the JAG Corps of the US Army and also worked as a paralegal, librarian, and church secretary. She lives in West Virginia with her husband, children, a dog, and a rarely seen cat except by those who are afraid or allergic to felines.


Author Links:


Webpage: www.christinafreeburn.com


Blog: www.theselfrescueprincess.wordpress.com


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christina-Freeburn-Author/245592138834150


Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChristinaFreeb1


Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ChristinaFreeburn


Purchase Links 


Amazon  B&N  kobo


 


 


The post Altered To Death (A Faith Hunter Scrap This Mystery) by Christina Freeburn, blog tour, giveaway and spotlight appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on December 03, 2017 00:00

December 1, 2017

Aria to Death: A Joseph Haydn Mystery blog tour, spotlight and giveaway


Aria to Death: A Joseph Haydn Mystery

by Nupur Tustin


Aria to Death: A Joseph Haydn Mystery

Historical Cozy Mystery

2nd in Series

Foiled Plots Press (December 1, 2017)

Paperback: 302 pages

ISBN-13: 978-0998243030

E-Book ASIN: B07641GD25


When Monteverdi’s lost operas surface, so does a killer desperate to possess them. . .


Preoccupied with preparations for the opera season at Eszterháza, Kapellmeister Joseph Haydn receives a curious request from a friend in Vienna. Kaspar, an impoverished violinist with an ailing wife, wishes Haydn to evaluate a collection of scores reputed to be the lost operas of Monteverdi.


Haydn is intrigued until Her Majesty, Empress Maria Theresa, summons him with a similar request. Skeptical of the value of Kaspar’s bequest, Haydn nevertheless offers to help. But before he can examine the works, Kaspar is murdered—beaten and left to die in front of a wine tavern.


The police are quick to dismiss the death as a robbery gone wrong. But Haydn is not so sure. Kaspar’s keys were stolen and his house broken into. Could his bequest be genuine after all? And can Haydn find the true operas—and the man willing to kill for them?


 


a Rafflecopter giveaway


 



About the Author


A former journalist, Nupur Tustin relies upon a Ph.D. in Communication and an M.A. in English to orchestrate fictional mayhem.  The Haydn mysteries are a result of her life-long passion for classical music and its history. Childhood piano lessons and a 1903 Weber Upright share equal blame for her original compositions, available on ntustin.musicaneo.com.


Her writing includes work for Reuters and CNBC, short stories and freelance articles, and research published in peer-reviewed academic journals. She lives in Southern California with her husband, three rambunctious children, and a pit bull.


Webpage: http://ntustin.com


Blog: http://ntustin.com/blog


Free Haydn Mystery at Taste of Murder: http://ntustin.com/tasteofmurder


Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ntustinauthor


Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8616151.Nupur_Tustin


Purchase Links


Amazon   B&N  kobo iTunes


TOUR PARTICIPANTS


November 29 – Brooke Blogs – GUEST POST/EXCERPT


November 30 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW


November 30 – Island Confidential – GUEST POST/EXCERPT


December 1 – Cassidy’s Bookshelves – GUEST POST/EXCERPT


December 2 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT


December 3 – Cozy Up With Kathy – INTERVIEW


December 4 – Queen of All She Reads – SPOTLIGHT  


December 5 – A Blue Million Books – INTERVIEW


December 6 – Socrates’ Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT


December 6 – A Holland Reads – SPOTLIGHT


December 7 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW


December 7 – StoreyBook Reviews – GUEST POST/EXCERPT


December 8 – Books,Dreams,Life – SPOTLIGHT


December 8 – Valerie’s Musings – GUEST POST/EXCERPT


December 8 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT


The post Aria to Death: A Joseph Haydn Mystery blog tour, spotlight and giveaway appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on December 01, 2017 21:58

November 29, 2017

BOOK TOUR: Heart of the Highlands: The Beast by April Holthaus (2nd Place World’s Best Story™ 2016 Contest Winner!)




Book Details:


Book Title: Heart of the Highlands: The Beast (Protectors of the Crown Book 1)

Author: April Holthaus

Category: Adult Fiction, 326 pages

Genre: Historical Romance

Publisher: Grey Eagle Publishing, LLC

Release date: July 2015

Tour dates: Nov 27 to Dec 15, 2017

Content Rating: R (for graphic sex scenes, and mild language)


Book Description:


For hundreds of years, Scotland has battled the English for their freedom. Now, they face a new enemy. In a divided world between politics and religion, the young King James V faces the threat of his own people rebelling against him. As civil war breaks out among the Highland clans, James recruits a secret group of warriors for protection. He calls them the Protectors of the Crown.


Ian MacKay has one mission; to defend the crown no matter the cost. Along with his men, Ian’s mission is to hunt down one of the most dangerous men in the Highlands. But when the daughter of an enemy enters his life, his heart becomes captured instead.


Keira Sinclair has lived a life of peace and simplicity until now. With her clan on the verge of losing everything, she is forced to wed a Laird from a neighboring clan to ensure that hers survives. During her travels to her new home, her carriage is attacked and Keira is taken hostage by a ruthless man.


Caught in the middle of a war that she does not understand, will Keira’s secrets be safe, or will she succumb to the Highland warrior who now threatens to capture her heart?


 


Guest Post


 


Why I became a Historical Romance Author.


My journey did not start the way many other authors have. I never aspired to become a writer and for most of my life, I never really enjoyed reading. Growing up in a broken family, I moved around a lot, bouncing from school to school and always struggled. From Kindergarten until the time I went to college, I had attended 13 different schools and moved to various suburbs outside the Twin Cities in Minnesota. So focused on my home life, I grew up wanting to care for others. At first, I wanted to be a doctor, then a nurse, then I became interested in caring for wildlife. But math and reading were always my worst subjects and I was unable to finish my bachelor’s due to my lack of comprehending calculus. Looking back, I am not ashamed of this because my life has steered me into a new direction.


My interests had always been sporadic. I loved the medieval era, romance and fantasy so when I came across Susan Paul’s The Bride when I was 19, I completely feel in love with the world she had written. I started looking for other Historical Romances similar to that genre and over the years had read hundreds of books. But even this did not make me want to be a writer.


It wasn’t until just before my grandmother passed away. She had started to put together our family tree and had all the names listed up to my 5th Great-Grandfather, Chief White Eagle of the Iroquois tribe from Quebec, Canada. During the French Indian War, his daughter Morning Star (my 4th Great-grandmother) married a name named Cpt. John Black. Their story intrigued me just as many other stories she had told me of my ancestors. Soon after she passed away, I began to finish her work and construct the family tree. Over the past 10 years, I have found over 400+ direct bloodline grandparents dating back to 900’s England.


My love for history grew. Together with my passion for romance, I came up with a story idea for a Highland Laird named Rory MacKinnon. The hero of my first book The Honor of a Highlander. After learning about self-publishing through some new authors I had befriended on social media, I obtained an editor and published my first story in September 2013 believing that no one who ever read it and I would never receive more than 3 stars. Within the first month, sales soared and The Honor of a Highlander became one of the top selling books on Amazon. I was floored. I could not believe the remarks and response that book had received. It was my readers that encouraged me to keep writing. And after 4 years, I now have 7 published novels and have plans for 4 more this coming year.


Praise for Heart of the Highlands:


“The Beast was a highly enjoyable romance.” – Readers Favorite Book Reviews

“Heart of the Highlands: The Beast reminded me why I love historical romances and need to read more of them!”- NightOwl reviews

“The romance was sigh-worthy.” – Kilts and Swords

“A new and exciting series.” – My Book Addiction and More

“Rich, Rich, Rich in detail. Well written and researched.” – World’s Best Story Judge


Awards:

2017 Reader’s Favorite Book Award Honorable Mention

2016 World’s Best Story Award 2nd Place Winner

2015 RONE Award Nominee


Heart of the Highlands: The Beast is the first installment of the Protectors of the Crown Series. Here are the other books to follow:


Protectors of the Crown Series

Book Two- Heart of the Highlands: The Wolf; published

Book Three- Heart of the Highlands: The Dragon; 2018

Book Four- Heart of the Highlands: The Lion; TBA

Book Five- Heart of the Highlands: The Stag; TBA


This series follows a group of five warriors who live their life protecting their king and country. The historical setting is Scotland 1537-1538 during the reign of James V of Scotland.



To read reviews, please visit April Hothaus’ page on iRead Book Tours.



Buy the Book:

 


Amazon & Barnes & Noble

 


iTunes ~ Kobo
Add to Goodreads

 



 


 

 


 
Meet the Author:

 





April is an Award-Winning Author for her Scottish Historical Romances. For more than ten years, she has worked full time in the direct marketing business, but developed a passion for historical romances through her love of reading, history and genealogy.Connect with the Author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Pinterest


Enter the giveaway!


Ends Dec 23





a Rafflecopter giveaway



The post BOOK TOUR: Heart of the Highlands: The Beast by April Holthaus (2nd Place World’s Best Story™ 2016 Contest Winner!) appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on November 29, 2017 00:00

Fire’s Kiss By Brittany Pate, blog tour, excerpt and spotlight

Fire’s Kiss


By Brittany Pate


Fiery Seas Publishing


November 21, 2017


Paranormal Romance Fiction


Embyr tends her tavern while keeping her dangerous parentage a secret, until she’s attacked by a hellhound and saved by one of the most feared men in history.


For the last eight hundred years, Ryder McLennon, the infamous leader of Death’s Horsemen, has used his army to hunt the vampire who killed his wife. He’s earned a reputation as a murderous madman. But in Embyr, he discovers something that could turn the tide of battle in his favor. Her control over fire can reduce an enemy to ash and her flippant disregard of him heats his blood in ways no one else ever has. She’s beautiful, powerful and completely different from her violence-loving brethren.


Embyr finds herself thrust into a war she wants no part of, targeted by a vicious vampire because of her cooperation with Ryder. As she learns to wield her demonic powers without letting the madness of her race overcome her, she also has to fight her attraction to a killer bent on her seduction.


Buy Links:


https://www.amazon.com/Fires-Kiss-Brittany-Pate-ebook/dp/B077BHVX92


https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fires-kiss-brittany-pate/1127434821?ean=9781946143372


https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/fire-s-kiss


https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/fires-kiss/id1312265602?mt=11


Trailer Link: https://youtu.be/T_4tsEY2muA


 


EXCERPT FROM FIRE’S KISS BY BRITTANY PATE


CHAPTER 8


“What did you think of my city?” Ryder asked from behind her.


Embyr stood up quickly, scattering dresses all over the floor. She forced an easy smile to her lips, as if she hadn’t just been ogling him. “It’s certainly not what I expected. I suppose you belong in the middle.”


“The middle?”


She nodded. “You said not all people are good or evil. Some of them belong in the middle.”


“I thought it was understood that monsters are evil.”


“Technically, I’m a monster.”


“No. You are a woman with unfortunate parentage. I am a man who has seen and done monstrous things. My actions, the things I have done, are what make me evil.”


“But you fight a greater evil. I say that puts you in the middle. Not completely evil, not completely good.”


“Make no mistake, I seek Atrarius’s death for selfish reasons and I will kill anyone to get what I want.”


“You haven’t killed me,” she shot back, crossing her arms over her chest. “In fact, you’ve repeatedly saved my life.”


“Only because you serve a purpose.” His voice was hard as he loomed over her. She knew that stance now, the one meant to intimidate. Her chin rose defiantly. “When this is over, what do you think is going to happen to you?”


“You are going to return me to my tavern unharmed.”


“What about untouched?” he whispered, brushing his fingers across her cheek.


Her involuntary shiver didn’t escape his notice. His fingers traveled lightly over her skin and across the shell of her ear. Goose bumps rose on her skin.


Afraid he could see his effect on her in her eyes, she closed them. She took a deep, shaky breath. “And untouched.”


“Why?”


His soft voice felt like a caress. She felt him step closer, his body brushing hers. This was the most intimate she’d ever been with a man and her heart raced from the newness of it. His fingers sank into her hair. She knew she should push him away, but her body demanded just one more moment of being made to feel like a woman instead of a monster. Just a moment longer. Then she would stop it.


“Because it would be a very bad idea,” she whispered. By all the old gods, why was she responding this way? The man was evil and frightening, yet everything inside her reveled in his touch. The fingers in her hair tightening, tilting her face up. Her eyes remained closed, though she could feel his gaze on her.


“For a moment, Embyr,” he whispered, “let go of good and evil.” His cool lips settled on her throat, on the tender spot below her jaw. Her lips parted in a gasp.


He growled against her skin at the sound and kissed a line to her earlobe.


“For a moment, forget right and wrong.” He nipped gently at the lobe. “Let go and listen to your instincts.”


Oh, she couldn’t possibly do that, not when her instincts cried for him to hold her tight and kiss her until she could think of nothing else.


“Be selfish,” he urged. “Let yourself have this one moment in time.”


 


 


About the Author:


Brittany Pate lives in Texas with her husband and son. She is a longtime lover of all things fantasy and romance. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys narrating audio books and drinking entirely too much coffee.


Website: http://brittanympate.wixsite.com/brittanympate


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittanypatewrites/


Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrittanyPate2


The post Fire’s Kiss By Brittany Pate, blog tour, excerpt and spotlight appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on November 29, 2017 00:00

November 28, 2017

Welcome to the Cowboy Christmas Guardian Celebration Tour and review




About the Book:


Name of book: Cowboy Christmas Guardian


Author: Dana Mentink


Genre: Isnpy Romance Suspense


Someone is dead set on stopping Shelby Arroyo from doing her job: assessing mineral rights in a mine in gold country. But after rancher Barrett Thorn rescues her from an attack, the handsome widowed cowboy seems to feel responsible for her. That is, until he discovers she’s from the family that he’ll never forgive for his wife’s death. As the threats against Shelby escalate, cowboy honor and an unexpected attraction keep Barrett by her side, even at his own risk. And since Shelby won’t back down, Barrett must protect the brave, loyal woman he has no business falling for…a woman someone wants to kill by Christmas.


Click here to purchase your copy.

Review


Shelby loves her job as she asses mineral rights in a mine but someone wants her to stop and will do so at all cost.  She has suffered a few accidents.  During one of these attacks Barrett Thorn saved her and feels he needs to protect her until her learns who she really is.


The author does an excellent job with these two characters as they are both hurting.  The way they go through the forgiveness is remarkable.  You really feel for both of these people.


With suspense and romance you can’t go wrong with this book.


I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.


About the Author:


Dana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is a national bestselling author of over thirty-five titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Harvest House. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, Yogi, Boo Boo, a nutty terrier, a chubby box turtle and a feisty parakeet.


Guest Post from Dana Mentink

Howdy, readers! I am thrilled to be bringing you this four book Gold Country Cowboys series that takes place in an area near and dear to my heart! My family and I have enjoyed many adventures in this amazing area, from exploring gold mines, to climbing through caverns, and soaking in the incredible history. As a matter of fact, we recently enjoyed a train trip on the historic V and T Railroad which took us past abandoned mines and even some active ones where people are engaged in modern day treasure hunting. California’s Gold Country is a fascinating place filled with secret treasures. I hope you will enjoy some wild adventures with four cowboy brothers who have some secrets of their own. God bless you all!


Blog Stops

Cordially Barbara, November 16


Genesis 5020, November 16


Have A Wonderful Day, November 17


A Greater Yes, November 17


To Everything A Season, November 17


ASC Book Reviews, November 18


Splashes of Joy, November 18


History, Mystery & Faith, November 19


Red Headed Book Lady, November 19


Remembrancy, November 19


Ashley’s Bookshelf, November 24


Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 25


Cafinated Reads, November 25


Blogging With Carol, November 26


Daysong Reflections, November 26


Carpe Diem, November 27


Karen Sue Hadley, November 27


Babs Book Bistro, November 28


Bibliophile Reviews, November 28


Raining Butterfly Kisses, November 29


The Power of Words, November 29





Giveaway


In honor of her tour, Dana is giving away a copy of Cowboy Christmas Guardian in print or ebook, a horse scarf and a $25 Amazon gift card! Click the link below to enter! https://promosimple.com/ps/c0d3


The post Welcome to the Cowboy Christmas Guardian Celebration Tour and review appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on November 28, 2017 01:00

His Highland Bride by Willa Blair, release day blast

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Meet the Author:

[image error] Willa Blair is an Award-winning Amazon and Barnes & Noble #1 Bestselling author of Scottish Historical, light Paranormal, and Contemporary romance. She has been featured on and contributes to USAToday’s Happy Ever After romance blog, Savvy Authors, Romance University, and more.Her books have won numerous honors, including the Marlene, the Merritt, National Readers’ Choice Award Finalist, The Reader’s Crown finalist, Historical Romance finalist and Honorable Mention in InD’Tale Magazine’s prestigious RONE Award, NightOwl Reviews Top Pick, and InD’tale Review’s Crowned Heart.

A life-long student and reader, she has been a stained glass artist and instructor, a foreign language teacher, a computer scientist, an analyst, a manager and an executive. She has visited five continents and can get by in several languages. She loves scouting new settings for books, and thinks being an author is the best job she’s ever had.


Connect: Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 



About the Book:

 


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A Dutiful Daughter No More

 



When Mary Elizabeth Rose’s father marries a much younger lass in hopes of siring a male heir, Mary sees her chance to escape her role as his chatelaine, but fears his next step will be to betroth her to a stranger. She has a different future in mind—with a sometimes charming, sometimes difficult and arrogant wounded Highlander.

He Owes Her His Life

Cameron Sutherland is not too delirious to recognize Mary Rose is the first woman he could seriously consider taking as his bride. He’d like nothing better than to spend years repaying the debt he owes his angel of mercy for taking him in and saving his life. First, he must convince her to defy her father one last time.

Will They Put Love Before Duty?

For Mary, Cameron has become the man whose every smile has the power to bring her to her knees. But he is as duty-bound as she is, and responsibility calls him back to Sutherland, where she fears he will stay, forgetting her and all they’ve shared. With another powerful clan’s interests at stake, Cameron’s return sets events in motion that will have life-changing consequences for the woman he can’t forget.

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Kobo

 



Add to Goodreads

 



The post His Highland Bride by Willa Blair, release day blast appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on November 28, 2017 00:00

November 26, 2017

Margaritas, Mayhem & Murder – Andi Anna Jones Mystery by Mary Cunningham, blog tour, spotlight & giveaway


Margaritas, Mayhem & Murder – Andi Anna Jones Mystery

by Mary Cunningham



Margaritas, Mayhem & Murder – Andi Anna Jones Mystery

Cozy Mystery

1st in Series

Imajin Books

Date of Release : NOV 30, 2017

150 pages


 


Andi’s step-mother is a real piece of work!


But is Ruby a murderer?


Andi Anna Jones, so-so travel agent/amateur sleuth, puts aside her resentment of her father’s widow and books a 60th birthday cruise to Cancun for Ruby and three friends. Never does Andi imagine the cruise will lead to the murder of a has-been lounge singer—or that Ruby will be the main suspect.


Flirting with more than danger after arriving in Mexico, Andi connects with the charming local sheriff, Manual Rodriquez. After an embarrassing night involving the sheriff, too many margaritas, and a Mariachi band, a chance to check out an eyewitness to the murder leads her to Las Vegas.


In Vegas, a mysterious meeting in the Bodies Exhibition, a body preserving in the prep-room, and an evasive owner of a dance studio, give Andi clues to help Ruby. But when Andi is mercilessly drugged and locked in a storage room, she realizes dear old step-mom isn’t the only one in jeopardy.


a Rafflecopter giveaway




About the Author

Author, Mary Cunningham, grew on the northern side of the Ohio River in Corydon, Indiana. Her first memories are of her dad’s original bedtime stories that no doubt inspired her imagination and love of a well-spun “yarn”.


Childhood experiences, and a recurring dream about a mysterious attic, inspired characters, Cynthia and Augusta Lee, for her award-winning middle-grade series, Cynthia’s Attic.


Through the author’s horrifying stint as a travel agent, protagonist, Andi Anna Jones, travel agent/amateur sleuth, sprang to life. This series gives extra meaning to the phrase, “Write what you know.”


Cunningham is a member of The Georgia Reading Association, and the Carrollton Writers Guild.


When she gives her fingers a break from the keyboard, she enjoys golf, swimming and exploring the mountains of West Georgia where she makes her home with her husband. Together they’ve raised three creative children, have 2 granddaughters, a grandson, a great grandson, and an adopted, four-legged, furry daughter, Lucy.


Margaritas, Mayhem, & Murder: Andi Anna Jones Mystery #1 will be released NOV 30, 2017 by Imajin Books. Book # 2 is in process.


Author Links:



Website: https://www.marycunninghambooks.com
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/Cynthiasattic
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/marycunninghambooks/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MaryCunningham
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/gus65/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marycunningham1/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/367223.Mary_Cunningham
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B002BLNEK4
Imajin Books: http://www.imajinbooks.com

 


TOUR PARTICIPANTS


November 26 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY


November 26 – Books,Dreams,Life – SPOTLIGHT


November 27 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY


November 27 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW


November 28 – Cozy Up With Kathy – INTERVIEW


November 29 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW, INTERVIEW


November 30 – StoreyBook Reviews – GUEST POST, SPOTLIGHT


November 30 – Socrates’ Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY  


December 1 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW, GIVEAWAY


December 1 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY


December 2 – Queen of All She Reads –  SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY


December 2 – Valerie’s Musings – GUEST POST


The post Margaritas, Mayhem & Murder – Andi Anna Jones Mystery by Mary Cunningham, blog tour, spotlight & giveaway appeared first on ~*~Babs Book Bistro~*~.

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Published on November 26, 2017 21:30

Fiskur by Donna Migliaccio, blog tour, excerpt & book trailer

Fiskur by Donna Migliaccio


November7, 2017


Fantasy


The Gemeta Stone Book 2


Fiery Seas Publishing, LLC 


 


With his family’s talisman in his possession, Kristan Gemeta is ready to face the Wichelord Daazna – but he has no inkling of the scope of Daazna’s power, nor the depths of his hatred.


With the recovery of his family’s protective talisman, Kristan Gemeta has found hope, courage – and perhaps even the first stirrings of love.  With the aid of Heather Demitt, her band of rebels, a shipload of Northern brigands and the legendary Kentavron, he readies himself to face the Wichelord Daazna.  But neither he nor his comrades realize the strength of Daazna’s power and hatred.  The Wichelord’s first blow comes from a direction Kristan least expects, with horrific, lasting consequences.


Buy Links: 


 Amazon  ~  Barnes & Noble Kobo  ~  iBooks




Excerpt from FISKUR: Book Two of The Gemeta Stone


Chapter Five


“Passed out, my lord,” said the commander.


Daazna considered the silent, blood-streaked figure at his feet. “He’s showing more fortitude than I expected. But I’ll break him.”


“How?” said Gomon.


Daazna ignored the doubt in the whipman’s voice. “He’s a highborn young gallant, Gomon, and he has a little sweetheart. He’d never let her suffer for his sake.” He took a few steps backward, raised his hands to his temples and closed his eyes. Once again, he conjured up the image of the girl, running and smiling, but then shook his head and flicked one hand in dismissal. No, she wouldn’t be like that now, he thought. He concentrated on the girl again, but this time he envisioned her as he had last seen her, trembling with fear and confusion. “There you are, my little broken-hearted darling,” he said aloud, and laughed as he recited the Seeking spell:


“Ina ka


Ina ka


Na san ka


Ina ka”


His senses rose and reached like long fingers. Far away he perceived the girl, heartsick and frightened. He stretched himself toward her, ready to take her, but in that instant she winked out, like a spark snapped from a fire.


Daazna’s hands jumped away from his head and his eyes shot open.


“What is it?” his mother said.


“Something blocked me.” He was so astonished that it took a moment to realize that Ariphele had summoned up the courage to speak to him, and that he had actually answered her. He tried the spell again, but this time there was no trace of the girl at all. Vexed, he stamped his foot.


“It must be that other Wiche,” Ariphele said.


Daazna glared at her. “What?”


She flinched, but stood her ground. “Remember that tall soldier – the one from Fandrall?  The one who…who…”


“The one who fell in the shit?” the commander suggested, with a barely suppressed grin.


“Ah, yes,” Daazna said. “The one who claimed he’d been spelled. You said the Gemeta must have a Wiche ally, but I thought you were joking. What Wiche with those powers would be wandering around in the Exilwald?”


“There’s Phelan –”


“Phelan? That fumbling old fool?” Daazna threw back his head and laughed. “If that’s the best the Gemeta has up his sleeve, then I’m not worried.”


Ariphele gazed at him with a trace of a smile. “Perhaps you should be. Whoever is casting spells on the Gemeta’s behalf has managed to fox you twice.”



 


About the Author:


Donna Migliaccio is a professional stage actress with credits that include Broadway, National Tours and prominent regional theatres.  She is based in the Washington, DC Metro area, where she co-founded Tony award-winning Signature Theatre and is in demand as an entertainer, teacher and public speaker.  Her award-winning short story, “Yaa & The Coffins,” was featured in Thinkerbeat’s 2015 anthology The Art of Losing.


Social Media: 


Website


Facebook


Twitter


Pinterest


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Published on November 26, 2017 00:30

November 24, 2017

Death at the Midnight Dragonfly by Susan Boles, blog tour, spotlight and giveaway


Death at the Midnight Dragonfly

by Susan Boles


Death at the Midnight Dragonfly

Argent Ocean Publishing (November 10, 2017)

Paperback: 216 pages

ISBN-13: 978-0997909357

E-Book ASIN: B0771PXNYD


On the fourth day of Christmas,

In Mercy, Mississippi….


Four suspects lying,

Three sleuths a sleuthing

Two clues a hiding

And a very, very dead body.


It’s the Christmas season in Mercy, Mississippi. But things are far from jolly.


For Vlad Templeton the sleepy little town where he spent his childhood provides the perfect place to conduct his state funded sleep study. But when the local bank manager, who was participating in the study, is found dead on his doorstep, is it a set up…or is Vlad somehow involved?


But, when someone makes an attempt on Lily Gayle’s and Dixie’s life, the two realize they better move fast….or they might end up sleeping forever.


Excerpt


Chapter 4


I spotted Mildred in Dixie’s chair and I knew her regular wash and set was on Wednesday afternoon. But at least she was a regular customer. As I pushed open the door, the bell jingled and Dixie looked up. When she saw it was me, and knowing me well, she cut her eyes to the crowded waiting area and gave me a no-nonsense keep your mouth shut look. I nodded to let her know I got the message.


All the women squished into the waiting area up front looked up at me, then back down at their magazines like some kind of freaky synchronized act. I halfway expected them all to suddenly turn a magazine page in unison.


“Well. Looky who’s here. Lily Gayle will have all the news straight from law enforcement headquarters.” Mildred cackled as she caught sight of me. “Come on over here by me so I can be sure I hear all of it.”


Before I could make a move in any direction, the Stepford wives up front all looked up again. This time with a glint of interest in their eyes. I shuddered inside. Acting like I didn’t even see them, I made my way back to Dixie’s chair. Not to fill Mildred in on anything. But so I could get a feel for when Dixie might be done and could step outside with me to chat.


TALK ABOUT THEIR CHILDHOOD WITH VLAD AND ALSO THE ARGUMENT LG OVERHEARD OUTSIDE THE CHRISTMAS PARTY


 


a Rafflecopter giveaway


About the Author


Susan calls McNairy County, TN her home ground even though she has moved away. It was here, at Bethel Springs Junior High School that she began her writing career with two friends. They formed their own little writers group that was so secret they were the only ones who knew it existed. She still has some of the stories they wrote carefully preserved in a loose leaf binder and tucked away for safety.


She has worked in retail management, briefly for the Census Bureau and for many years in the investment/insurance industry in the regulatory compliance arena. All of which are left brain activities. So she exercises her right brain activity with reading and writing…just to keep both sides even.


Reading has been a passion since she was very young. As a toddler, her mother read to her from her ‘baby books’ and her Mother tells a story about her holding one of them upsidedown and ‘reading’ by repeating the story verbatim from memory.


Susan writes mysteries set in the big city of Memphis, TN and the fictional small town of Mercy, Mississippi.


Author Links:

Webpage  Twitter – @SusanBAuthor – Blog – Facebook – Linked In – GoodReads 


Previous Books in this Series


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Published on November 24, 2017 20:55