I have two awesome books to share with you today. Hope you enjoy.
Many find blogging a great way to relax and connect with others resulting in happy experiences. Author Wendy Corsi Staub takes blogging to a darker level in her latest release, THE PERFECT STRANGER, the second installment in her Cyber Predator series.
Narrator Allyson Ryan does a superb job giving each character their own unique voice. Her mannerisms enhances the emotions of the characters and adds depth to the story. Her cadence heightens the suspense of the story.
A group of women come together online to encourage and support each other in their fight against cancer. They find solace, sharing things about themselves they can’t share with people in their lives. Several of the women draw closer, forming their own little online group.
When one of the bloggers is killed, an apparent victim of a burglary, the others decide to meet for her funeral. It’s the first time Landry, Elena and Kay have seen each other in person. They had hoped that Jaycee would join them, but she doesn’t. Having never seen a photo of Jaycee, the trio doesn’t know she’s also at the funeral but not speaking to anyone.
The trio discusses Meredith’s death and they secretly begin to wonder if the killer could be one of them. As paranoia sets in, the author increases the suspense making it plausible anyone of the group could be the killer. Add to that Jaycee’s mysterious actions and shocking background, the suspect list grows. In addition, Meredith’s daughter begins to suspect her father’s recent actions.
The story moves at a good pace with adrenaline fueled moments and unexpected twists. The characters are realistic. The author has done her research in relating the mixed bag of emotions the characters express dealing with cancer. The author also points out the highs and lows of giving out too much personal data online.
THE PERFECT STRANGER is a suspenseful novel dealing with problems readers/listeners can relate to and highlights complications an online presence can create, if one is not careful. This story will have you re-evaluating just how much information you share online.
The Perfect Stranger by Wendy Corsi Staub, Cyber Predator Series Book #2, Performed by Allyson Ryan, HarperAudio, @2014, ASIN: BOOK8EWRWM, Unabridged, Digital Download, Listening Time: 11 Hours and 19 Minutes
FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
The Perfect Stranger by Wendy Corsi Staub, Cyber Predator Series Book #2, Harper, @2014, ISBN: 978-0062222404, Mass Market Paperback, 416 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me as part of the author’s virtual book tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
* I had the good fortunate to begin reading this book in paperback and then finishing it by listening to the audio version. It was nice enjoying the book in both formats and I would recommend both.
When a book series has a long run life, you know there will have to be changes to keep the storyline fresh.
Author Fern Michaels has done that in her Sisterhood series. Her latest release, KISS AND TELL, is a product of those changes. This continues to be a fun series, but missing some of the delightful characters from the earlier installments. With this book, Michaels brings a few of those characters back briefly.
Narrator Laural Merlington does an excellent job giving distinct voices to these characters – young and old, male and female. The modulation of her voice puts the right spin on the characters’ emotions. She captures the idiosyncrasy of each character in such a manner to enhance the story.
A number of anonymous emails suggesting shady deals leads Myra Rutledge and Annie de Silva to snoop around a wealthy assisted-living facility. They discover the dealings involve an investment broker who is running a Ponzi scheme. With the help of a few of the old gang, the ladies once again right the wrongs.
During their mission to bring the investor down, Myra encounters her own heart break at home. While the problem wasn’t solved, there was a hint of more to be resolved concerning the matter. In addition, the author gives a lead way into a new series featuring the men of the Sisterhood. Between the Sisterhood and the Brotherhood, the bad guys don’t stand a chance.
KISS AND TELL is the 23rd installment in the Sisterhood series and can be read/listened to on its own. However, I would recommend reading/listening to the series in order to get the full pleasure of the characters as they grow and develop. This is another delightful story of a wrong being righted, just miss all the sisters being involved.
Kiss and Tell by Fern Michaels, Sisterhood Series Book #23, Performed by Laural Merlington, Brilliance Audio, @2014, ISBN: 978-1480566323, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Listening Time: 9 Hours and 28 Minutes
FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out these two books further. Both are available in book and audio formats. May your Sunday be a day of joy and resting (with a good book handy, of course). Have you listened to any audio books lately? What book are you currently enjoying or what book do you plan to read next?
*This post contains affiliate links.
Sometimes we need a short break from reading to let our minds wander and focus on something else. Today I have two movies that are out on DVD that I’d like to share with you for a change of pace.
When Calls the Heart is a wonderful television series inspired by the writings of Janette Oke. This feature length film is taken from that series and is suitable for the entire family’s viewing pleasure.
Elizabeth Thatcher (played by Erin Krakow) is busy teaching youngsters in the mining town of Coal Valley. When a group of bachelor miners come to town to re-open the mine, one sees Elizabeth as a potential wife.
Local Monty Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) views the miner as trouble, as well as competition for Elizabeth’s attention even though Jack won’t admit it out loud. When items begin to disappear from the residents’ homes, Jack believes he knows the culprit. At a dance to celebrate the miners’ arrival, Jack puts his plan to catch the thief into motion.
Meanwhile, other residents in the town are adjusting to the new miners in different ways.
WHEN CALLS THE HEART: The Dance is a wholesome, feel-good movie suitable for all ages. The movie blends romance, suspense and mystery with touches of humor for a well-balanced story.
When Calls the Heart: The Dance by Frontier Productions LLC (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Written by Ken Lazebnik and Sheryl J. Anderson, Directed by Anne Wheeler, ASIN: B00KSON3L6, Run Time: 87 Minutes
FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from a tour promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Life changes drastically for 17-year-old Jake (played by Adam Horner) and his mother Alyssa (Sydney Penny) when they move from Chicago to a coastal town to live with Alyssa’s father Lou (Eric Roberts). Jake is still bitter and unsettled following the death of his father.
There is little for Jake to do in the small town where Wi-Fi can only be found at a local shop. The owner of the shop, Cody (Jason Castro of American Idol fame) takes to Jake and looks out for him. Jake also makes friends with Kayla (Katie Garfield), a pretty young surfer, which causes trouble with her ex (J.D. Banks).
Surfing is the main attraction in the area and what all the kids do. Jake learns his grandfather is a surfing legend. As his grandfather teaches him to surf, he also teaches him some important lessons about life.
This is an inspiring and uplifting story suitable for the whole family. It deals with compassion, understanding, courage and hope. Viewers are also treated to some amazing surfing scenes in THE PERFECT SUMMER.
The Perfect Summer by Up Entertainment (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Written by Nathan Scoggins and Gary Wheeler, Directed by Gary Wheeler, ASIN: B00DQ6S5OS, Run Time: 120 Minutes
FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from a tour promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Thanks for stopping by today. I’m including the trailers for both of these films to entice you a bit more to check them out. What was the last movie you watched on DVD? Do you usually wait for a film to come out on DVD before watching it or had you rather go to the movie theatre to watch it?
*This post contains affiliate links.
It is my great pleasure to welcome friend, fellow blogger and award-winning author Elizabeth Craig here today. Elizabeth is touring with her latest release, SHEAR TROUBLE, the fourth book in her Southern Quilting Mystery series.
This is a fun series to follow, but each book can be read as a stand-alone. While you don’t have to be a quilter to enjoy the books, Elizabeth does include quilting tips with each one as well as recipes.
With the release of SHEAR TROUBLE this week, Elizabeth joins us to talk about ‘Three Fun Elements to Add to Your Mystery.’ In addition, thanks to Elizabeth and the lovely Danielle at Penguin Group, I have a print of copy of this delightful story to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for more details.
As the leaves begin to fall in idyllic Dappled Hills, someone puts too fine a point on a local ladies’ man. Fortunately, the detective skills of quilter Beatrice Coleman are a cut above the rest....
The Village Quilters of Dappled Hills, North Carolina, are desperate to finish their quilts before an upcoming show. To help, fellow member Posy has opened the back room of her shop, the Patchwork Cottage, for everyone to use. But the ladies are less than thrilled when Phyllis Stitt and Martha Helmsley—members of their rival quilting guild, the Cut-Ups—ask to join them.
Phyllis is hoping to leave the Cut-Ups and join up with the Village Quilters now that Martha’s dating her ex-fiancé, Jason Gore. She’s not pleased when he visits the shop and even more upset when her new shears disappear. After offering to search for them, Beatrice discovers Jason with the shears buried in his unfaithful heart. Now she must sharpen her sleuthing skills to find a killer before someone else’s life is cut short.…
Please join me in giving a warm welcome to Elizabeth.
I grew up reading mysteries and they were the natural genre for me to write when I turned to writing. I love coming up with interesting characters, laying clues, and wrapping everything up neatly in the end.
I’ve also enjoyed adding several additional elements to my traditional mysteries. If you’re a mystery reader, you may recognize them.
Three Fun Elements to Add to Your Mystery:
An Unreliable Witness. This is a trick I learned from reading Agatha Christie’s mysteries. Christie loved including a character who seemed completely unreliable to both the other characters and readers. But this unreliable character would either intimate that he knew something or would actually spew out a vital detail in the midst of his babbling. While the other characters would completely discount everything he said, he actually spoke the truth and frequently held the key to the mystery.
Who could unreliable witnesses be? There are plenty of possibilities, including garrulous dim-witted types, characters a bit too fond of drinking, characters with poor memories, or young children.
A Touch of Nancy Drew. If you were ever a Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys fan, you probably know what I’m talking about. As a kid, I would get totally wrapped up in books with secret passageways, hidden rooms, and abandoned houses. I finally released my inner Nancy Drew in one of my Southern Quilting mysteries, QUILT TRIP. I like to think that most mystery readers get a happy feeling of nostalgia when encountering any Nancy Drew tropes.
Secrets. The fun thing about secrets is that they make mysteries more complex. With each murder mystery, you have at least one secret—the killer’s identity, which the murderer is trying desperately to protect. But the story gets a lot more interesting, and fun, if some or even all of the suspects are protecting secrets. If all the suspects have something to hide, there are not only red herrings galore, but lots of interesting discoveries about the suspects and what their motivations are.
As a reader, have you run into any of these elements? Do you have any favorite elements of your own to add?
Elizabeth, thanks for joining us today and sharing these elements. I’d have to say as a reader, secrets enhance a story and keep me wondering until the end.
Now for those who aren’t familiar with Elizabeth, let me give you a bit of background.
Elizabeth Craig writes the Memphis Barbeque series as Riley Adams and the Southern Quilting mysteries under her own name. A lifelong resident of the South, she enjoys finding inspiration for the Southern Quilting mysteries in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
She is currently at work on her next novel. Her newest Southern Quilting Mystery, Shear Trouble, released August 5th.
For more about Elizabeth and her books, visit her website and connect with her on her blog, Facebook and Twitter.
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
This giveaway is for one print copy of SHEAR TROUBLE. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and will end Saturday, Aug. 16.
To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and following the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient. The winner from this giveaway will have 72 hours to respond after being contacted or another winner will be selected. The email will have ‘Thoughts in Progress Elizabeth Craig’s Tour’ in the subject line, just so you know what to watch for (in case it goes into your spam folder).
Thanks so much for stopping by during Elizabeth’s visit. What elements do you enjoy in a mystery?
*This post contains affiliate links.
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I’m delighted today to be a part of author Rhys Bowen’s virtual book tour for her latest release, QUEEN OF HEARTS: A Royal Spyness Mystery, the eighth installment in her national bestselling Royal Spyness Mystery series.
Set in early 20th century England, QUEEN OF HEARTS (Berkley Prime Crime, Hardcover) hit bookshelves Tuesday, Aug. 5, and follows Georgie on her latest adventure to America.
Lady Georgiana Rannoch, thirty-fifth in line for the British throne, knows how to play the part of an almost royal—but now she’s off to Hollywood, where she must reprise her role as sleuth or risk starring in an all-too-convincing death scene.
Georgie’s mother, the glamorous and much-married actress, is hearing wedding bells once again—which is why she must hop across the pond for a quickie divorce in Reno. To offer moral support, and since all expenses are paid for by her mother’s new hubby-to-be, Max, Georgie agrees to make the voyage with her.
Crossing the Atlantic, with adventure in the air and wealthy men aboard, Georgie’s mother all but forgets about Max and matrimony—especially when movie mogul Cy Goldman insists on casting her in his next picture.
Meanwhile, Georgie finds herself caught up in the secret investigation of a suspected jewel thief. Lucky for Georgie, the lead investigator happens to be her dashing beau, Darcy!
Georgie’s mother’s movie and Darcy’s larceny lead everyone to Cy’s Hollywood home, where the likes of Charlie Chaplin are hanging about and there’s enough romantic intrigue to fill a double feature. But we hardly get a chance to work out the sleeping arrangements before Cy turns up dead—as if there wasn’t enough drama already.
Here’s what some are saying about the Royal Spyness Mystery series:
“Whimsical…Bowen successfully melds a whodunit with comedy as few contemporary writers can.”—Publishers Weekly (Starred review)
“Wonderful characters…a delight.”—#1 New York Times bestselling author Charlaine Harris
“Georgie’s high spirits and the author’s frothy prose are utterly captivating.”—The Denver Post
Please join me in welcoming Rhys here as she talks about ‘Living life as Lady Georgie.’
Writers are always told to ‘write what you know’. I write about a young woman who is 35th in line to the throne of England in the 1930s. And I have to confess that I am neither royal, nor am I old enough to remember the time between the wars. But I have enough in common with Lady Georgie, my heroine, to know what her life was like.
She has grown up in a lonely Scottish castle with the wind whistling along the corridors. I also grew up in a big drafty house in the country (but in Kent rather than Scotland). It was spooky with creaking doors and flapping rugs. And I was a lonely child. We lived outside the village. My father ran the factory and my mother was school principal so other children viewed me with suspicion and didn’t want to get too close to me.
I had too much time to myself and spent it in our acre of orchard playing games of pretend.—I was a circus star swinging from the trapeze I had rigged up in the tree. But my favorite game was pretending I was Queen of Swanley. I’d go out on my bike and give the TV narration in my head as I rode. “The Queen of Swanley goes out in her coach to greet her loyal subjects.” And I’d nod and give the royal wave to anyone I passed. They must have thought I was quite batty.
When I grew up I married into an upper class family who did have cousins with funny nicknames and stately homes and I heard tales about what the butler did and family ghosts. I have friends who were presented at court and moved in fashionable circles back when there really were fashionable circles. So I’ve been able to get a good feel for what Lady Georgie’s life was like in England. But I’ve sent her abroad in a couple of books now and that has required some tough research.
For example, before I wrote NAUGHTY IN NICE I had to spend a grueling two weeks on the French Riviera. Such hardships! So many bistros to sample. Actually, joking aside, I did spend a lot of time going through old photos in the library, touring every inch of the Negresco Hotel, looking at old maps and making sure all the details were right for when my heroine came to visit.
And I did the same for my new book, QUEEN OF HEARTS. This story takes Georgie across the Atlantic to America for the first time. So I did what any good researcher should do. I crossed the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 11. This ship was built to replicate the 1930s experience. It is a liner in the traditional design, not a top heavy cruise ship. It’s sleek and gorgeous. The interiors are sumptuous and art deco is everywhere. Music is playing in every public space and tea is served with white gloves. There were monogrammed slippers at the bottom of my bed and chocolates on my pillow. It was the height of luxury and pampering for me.
And suddenly it struck me—the people who made that crossing on the original Queen Mary took this kind of service for granted. This was just their home life transferred to a ship. There was always someone to prepare their meals, turn down their beds, put out their slippers, entertain them. They probably never even thought “oh how lovely” when they were served scones and clotted cream by a gloved waiter at tea. It’s things like this that really hit home to me what life must have been like for aristocrats before WWII. How incredibly different from our own.
I can read old diaries, biographies, watch old movies, look at old photos, even interview those who still remember the Thirties (not many left any more, I’m afraid). But nothing beats reliving the experience for myself. I’m just not planning to send Georgie to Antarctica!
Rhys, thanks for joining us today and sharing this look at living Georgie’s life. I always knew research could be tough, but I didn’t really how bad it could be. 
Your trip on the Queen Mary 11 sounds like fun.
Now let me share a bit of background on Agatha and Anthony award-winning author Rhys.
Rhys Bowen is also the author of the Molly Murphy mysteries and the Constable Evans mysteries. She was born in England and now divides her time between Northern California and Arizona.
For more on Rhys and her writing, visit her website and connect with her on Facebook and Twitter. In addition, she also blogs regularly at Jungle Red Writers.
Thanks so much for stopping by today during Rhys visit. What your thoughts on how research enhances or hinders a story?
*This post contains affiliate links.
It’s a pleasure to be a stop on Sage’s Blog Tour for author Linda Lou Crosby’s release, ADVENTURES WITH RAGWEED.
As part of the tour, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on this delightful YA collection of humorous short stories. In addition, the author is hosting a tour-wide giveaway for a print copy and five digital copies of this fun read. Please see the end of the post for more details.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Linda Lou Crosby is a video producer, storyteller and former professional athlete. Like Ragweed, she has a unique approach to life. Ragweed is a part of herself she wanted to share with others. Linda Lou has a great sense of humor and likes to laugh and make others laugh too.
She currently lives with her husband in Montana and California where on clear days you can find her fishing, hunting or hiking.
For more on the author and her writing, visit her website and connect with her on Twitter and Facebook.
ADVENTURES WITH RAGWEED is available in paperback and Kindle format.
My thoughts ………
Ragweed is a young teen that sees the world in a unique and comical way. She convinces her best friend, Marney, to accompany her as she takes on the world.
Featuring a collection of short stories, the book moves at a quick pace as the pair of undaunted teens tackle adventure after adventure. Ragweed thinks nothing of taking on the tennis elite at the country club or confusing her family’s gardener by secretly growing beans in their yard. She learns to ride a horse and even build a float.
The author has blended family relationships, friends and a wonderful sense of humor for a well-balanced story. The antics of the two teens will have readers of all ages laughing.
ADVENTURES WITH RAGWEED is a charming book beautifully illustrated by Andy Atkins. The colorful, cheerful drawings will bring a smile to your face as Ragweed sets off on a new journey.
Each short story is an entertaining look at life from a whimsical point of view. A wonderful addition to any library, this book is an enchanting read.
Adventures with Ragweed by Linda Lou Crosby, Illustrated by Andy Atkins, Neon Lines, @2013, ISBN: 978-0615895383, Paperback, 86 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me as part of the author virtual book tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
The author is giving away one print copy and five digital copies of ADVENTURES WITH RAGWEED. That means there’ll be six winners tour-wide.
To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. It may take the widget a few seconds to load, so please be patient.
Thanks so much for stopping by today during author Linda Lou Crosby’s tour. Do you read much in the YA genre? How did you get started reading YA?
*This post contains affiliate links.
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Blending a good plot with lovable characters, picturesque settings, and steamy romance are the elements I’ve come to expect in author Carolyn Brown’s books. Her latest release (set to publish Aug. 26), LONG, HOT TEXAS SUMMER, doesn’t disappointment on any of these essentials.
Written in an easy, quick flowing style, Brown introduces readers to the new fun-loving community of Palo Duro Canyon and a cast of characters that’ll have you laughing out loud. The Texas setting is inviting and the romance is sizzling.
Divorced 17 years, Loretta Sullivan Bailey isn’t looking forward to spending a day, much less the summer at Lonesome Canyon Ranch with her ex-husband, Jackson. But, if it means their daughter Nona will go back to college, she’ll do it. It’s not that she hates Jackson, just the opposite. Sparks always fly when they’re around each other, but she can’t forget finding him in the barn with Dina Mullins.
Jackson knows he made a terrible mistake all those years ago when he gave in and kissed Dina, but that was all there was to it. Besides he never understood why Loretta left without a word if she really loved him.
As Loretta tries to talk her daughter into going back to college, she finds herself torn by old feelings and strong urges. Turns out old love can still burn as hot as a Texas summer.
Brown has created likable, realistic characters that speak to the heart of the matter when it comes to love and family. She combines sexy cowboys, feisty redheads, and steamy romance with loyalty, friendship and love of family for a well-balanced story. She creates a setting that draws you in, captures you heart and holds you spellbound with warmth and good old-fashion fun.
This is one of those light-hearted, feel-good, make-me-happy kind of stories. But, at the same time, the essence of this story is family and love with a big ole dose of laughter and country living thrown in the mix. This is the first installment in what promises to be another fascinating series from Brown.
Find a comfortable chair, sit back and relax because once you start reading LONG, HOT TEXAS SUMMER you won’t be able to put it down. This is a super fun and sassy romance.
Long, Hot Texas Summer by Carolyn Brown, Palo Duro Canyon Series Book #1, Montlake Romance, @2014, ISBN: 978-1477823897, Paperback, 248 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out this great new book by Carolyn. You can pre-order it now before its Aug. 26 release date. Do you enjoy books where old loves are reunited and couples have a second chance at happiness?
*This post contains affiliate links.
It’s a pleasure to welcome author Leann Sweeney here today for a pre-celebration of her upcoming release tomorrow, THE CAT, THE VAGABOND AND THE VICTIM, the sixth installment in her Cats in Trouble Mystery series.
To kick off the celebration, Leann will be joining us to talk about ‘How to Write A Mystery Without Really Trying (See, I DO Tell Lies for A Living!).’ In addition, thanks to Leann and the lovely Danielle at Penguin Group, I have a print copy of this fun new cozy murder mystery to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for more details on that.
Here’s a brief description of THE CAT, THE VAGABOND AND THE VICTIM:
Heir of the cat...
When Clyde the cat travels two hundred miles back home only to find his former owner dead, the story makes national news. While everyone seems eager to tell Clyde’s incredible tale, someone needs to step up to care for him. Because the media attention is creating chaos at the local shelter, cat quilter Jillian Hart agrees to foster the loyal orange tabby, hoping his location is kept secret.
But while the media circus around Clyde continues, Jillian learns the real story behind his owner’s death—he was murdered. Why would an elderly man already dying from a serious illness become a murder victim? As the local police search for an answer, Clyde makes another escape.
Jillian is drawn into the case when she finds Clyde has returned to his home again—and he’s found another body. When the motive behind these murders is finally revealed, Jillian understands Clyde is in danger of becoming the next victim, and she must help find the killer before the claws really come out.…
Now please join me and give a warm welcome to Leann.
I spent a good portion of my life hoping to find out what I wanted to be when I grew up. Oh, I was an RN, worked in various areas of nursing, but that was for security, so I could help provide for my family. What did I truly want to accomplish? What would I do with this time on earth?
My "first" third job was raising puppies (#1 I was a wife and mother and #2 I was a nurse. I had Shelties to be specific—many, many Shelties. Messy job and not very profitable, but oh so fun. Nurses and moms are used to poop and pee, after all. But all along I knew what I wanted. I was just too afraid to admit it to myself. Fear of failure is a powerful thing.
As my two kids grew I remember one day pointing my finger at them and saying, "Find a job you love, find your passion," and suddenly the unconscious became conscious. Was I leading by example? No. I believe it was the very next day I went out and bought my first copy of Writers Digest.
That was in 1989. My first book was released in 2004. No, you cannot write a book without trying, and trying ... and trying some more. You must face rejection and heartbreak and confront your ego. You must understand there is no correct way to write a book, but there are hundreds of wrong ways. The learning curve is steep, the pain, the exhaustion, the self-doubt will shut you down if you let them. I repeat. You cannot write a book without trying really, really hard to learn what a "voice" is, to trust yourself after you have cut yourself to pieces over and over.
So, being a mother was the key to everything. I looked into their pre-teen eyes to offer advice and found answers for myself lying there. The first mystery I wrote turned out to be the first book published in 2004. How many times did I rewrite it? I'd guess a hundred. I believed in that book even when I didn't believe in myself. Then came the cat series and I have now published eleven books in two series. I love my fictional cats and in the new release, I have created a fur friend I wish I could have sitting on my lap right now. I hope you like Clyde as much as I do!
Leann, thanks for joining us today. You are so right about having to really, really try no matter what path you take in life. You can never succeed without trying.
Let me share a bit of background on Leann.
Leann Sweeney was born and raised in Niagara Falls and educated at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Lemoyne College in Syracuse, NY. She also has a degree from the University of Houston in Behavioral Science and worked in psychiatry. Formerly a school nurse, she has been writing in the mystery genre for many years.
Leann is married with two grown children and has lived in Texas for most of her adult life. She resides in South Carolina with two cats and a labradoodle named Rosie after her first series.
For more on Leann and her writing, visit her website, connect with her on Facebook and Twitter, and visit with her when she blogs at Cozy Chicks.
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
This giveaway is for one print copy of THE CAT, THE VAGABOND AND THE VICTIM. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and will end Tuesday, Aug. 12.
To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and following the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient. The winner from this giveaway will have 72 hours to respond after being contacted or another winner will be selected. The email will have ‘Thoughts in Progress Leann Sweeney’s Tour’ in the subject line, just so you know what to watch for (in case it goes into your spam folder).
Thanks so much for stopping by today and visiting with Leann. Have you always known what you wanted to be when you grew up or is that still a work in progress?
*This post contains affiliate links.
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As Sunday is typically supposed to be a day to rest and relax, I want to share a wonderful book with you that I think represents peace and tranquility, then bombard you with a few of my own photos.
I love this book - HUMMINGBIRDS: A Life-size Guide to Every Species by Michael Fogden, Marianne Taylor, and Sheri L. Williamson – but yet find it hard to write a review of it as it is a reference book. So today I’m sharing some information from the book’s publisher to help you understand why this book is a must have in your library. It contains such a wonderful amount of information about these tiny creatures.
The book is beautifully illustrated with rich, color photos of the 338 species of hummingbirds, as well as small map drawings showing the regions where they live. The really neat thing is the photos are life-size shots of the birds.
The book also gives a short description and factual information, including the best viewing locations, their habitats, breeding season; size and conservation status. These tiny creatures, ranging from 3 to 5 inches on average, are fascinating. Their brain makes up to 4.2 percent of their body weight. Most hummingbirds die in their first year of life. If they survive that first year, they can live for more than 10 years.
Their tiny feet are so weak they can barely walk, so they prefer to fly. And boy can they fly, using wings that rotate in a full circle and average a speed of 25 to 30 mph and up to 60 mph in a dive.
Hummingbirds have little to no sense of smell, but they can see and hear farther than humans. They can also remember every flower they have been to and how long it will take that flower to refill.
This lovely hardcover book contains 400 pages of captivating information about each of the species found throughout the world. It’s small enough to fit in a backpack, yet large enough for comfortable reading.
HUMMINGBIRDS: A Life-size Guide to Every Species by Michael Fogden, Marianne Taylor, and Sheri L. Williamson, HarperCollins Publishers, @2014, ISBN: 978-0062280640, Hardcover, 400 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my posting this information. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
To further show you how much I enjoy hummingbirds, I’m sharing some photos I took this past Wednesday of a few birds gathered around a couple of feeders I have out. You’ll see a Mullen plant in the background. When it was in full bloom, they seemed to like the yellow flowers. I also have a pineapple sage plant growing underneath the feeders, but it hasn’t bloomed this year.
These birds are amazing to watch. They are so tiny, yet can be so noisy when there are several of them fighting over the same feeder. They have become accustom to us, so we can stand near the feeder and they will buzz around us.
The first one appears each year on April 1. He stays for about a week and then leaves. A week or so later the others begin to appear and for the summer we are entertained and delighted by their antics.
Thanks for stopping by today. I hope you have a chance to relax and unwind. Do you have hummingbird feeders up?
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Journalist Robin Trailer appears to have finally achieved success and then it begins to crumble away from her in Kate White’s EYES ON YOU.
Narrator Abby Craden brings the characters to life in this edge-of-your-seat thriller. Her mannerisms and cadence captures the emotions and enhances the suspense surrounding the protagonist.
Robin has had a rough few years after losing her cheating husband and her job. Now she’s worked her way up to co-anchor of a popular TV show and just published a book that is climbing the charts. When strange things begin to happen, Robin isn’t worried at first. But as the stunts escalate, she realizes someone isn’t just out to get her job – but her life as well.
Suspecting Vicky Cruz, the station’s superstar whose light is dimming, an internal investigation is conducted. The investigation reveals that Robin, still dealing with a childhood trauma, is apparently behind her own sabotage.
Set on clearing her name, Robin draws a small group of friends closer. But as the same time she begins to wonder who she can truly trust.
The author has created a story filled with psychological suspense where every character appears to be the culprit. The twists and turns will keep you guessing and hold you spellbound until the end.
The setting of a TV talk show adds drama and intrigue to the mix. The characters are well-developed and realistic. The story flows quickly as you try to sort out the clues.
EYES ON YOU will have you second-guessing your pick for the killer as the stunts accelerate to murder. Fascinating and suspenseful until the end.
Eyes on You: A Novel of Suspense by Kate White, Performed by Abby Craden, Harper Audio, @2014, ASIN: BOOK6JPYRY, Unabridged, Digital Download, Listening Time: 8 Hours and 59 Minutes
FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Thanks so much for visiting today. I hope you find time to relax, unwind and enjoy a good book. Do you think TV shows or talk shows make good backdrops for intrigue and mystery?
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When author M.J. McGrath has a new installment in her Edie Kiglatuk Mystery series, I know I’m in for a wild Canadian arctic adventure that will be hard to put down.
In her latest release, THE BONE SEEKER (Viking; On Sale: July 28, 2014; $27.95; 978-0-670-78580-3), McGrath has her intrepid Edie Kiglatuk discover one of her students dead in a toxic lake. Thanks to the lovely Angela at Penguin Group, I have a copy of THE BONE SEEKER to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for more details.
Here is some early praise for the book:
“The chills McGrath’s third Edie entry sends down your spine will rival those brought on by any Nunavut winter.” — Kirkus (Starred Review)
“[THE BONE SEEKER is] filled with cultural tensions, gorgeous Arctic spring scenery, and pulsing suspense.” — Booklist (Starred Review) 
“McGrath effectively evokes the spare Arctic landscape and brings life to the people who have inhabited it for generations.” — Publishers Weekly
Edie Kiglatuk, the fearless Arctic heroine from McGrath’s WHITE HEAT and THE BOY IN THE SNOW, is back in THE BONE SEEKER: An Edie Kiglatuk Mystery, the third book in the acclaimed series.
Edie is working as a summer school teacher in the town of Kuujuaq when one of her favorite students, Martha Salliaq, goes missing. When the young woman is found dead and brutally defiled in nearby Lake Turngaluk, Edie teams up with Sergeant Derek Palliser to uncover the truth behind Martha’s murder and find justice for her traditional Inuit family.
As it happens, Lake Turngaluk is feared and avoided by the residents of Kuujuaq—the lake was contaminated years ago when it was used by the Defense Department during the Cold War as a Distant Early Warning radar station. Now, it’s the latest project of Sonia Gutierrez, a bullheaded lawyer from the “south.” Gutierrez and Martha’s father, Charlie Salliaq, have struggled for years to begin the cleanup process, but Martha’s death brings this to a halt, much to Sonia’s and Charlie’s frustration.
In the tightknit community of Kuujuaq, the local Inuit families are distrustful of any outsiders (qalunaat, as they call them) and the Salliaqs are quick to blame their daughter’s death on the rowdy soldiers who recently set up a base just south of the lake. Edie and Derek, however, need hard evidence before they can make an arrest. Edie, half-Inuit, and Derek are both considered outsiders, hampering their efforts. But just as it seems they’re making progress, the Defense Department seizes control of the investigation, the crime scene, and Martha’s body.
As Derek and Edie continue the investigation in secret and Gutierrez searches through old records in the hopes of restarting the cleanup of Lake Turngaluk, all three begin to suspect that Martha’s murder is just part of a much larger and darker secret that dates back to the building of the Cold War-era radar station.
Why are the local Inuit families so reticent to talk about the hard days of the past when “bad spirits” caused widespread miscarriages? Why does Charlie Salliaq refuse to discuss his days working at the radar station? And why is the Defense Department so intent on keeping Martha’s body? Edie, Derek, and Sonia must all risk their own lives to uncover the truth.
Set against the stark and haunting beauty of the Canadian Arctic, THE BONE SEEKER is a thrilling and skillfully written mystery that shows how an isolated Inuit community continues to be haunted by its dark history.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
M. J. McGrath is an award-winning journalist and the author of several books of nonfiction. Her fiction debut, WHITE HEAT, was long-listed for the UK’s CWA Gold Dagger for best crime and mystery novel of the year. She received the Mail on Sunday/John Llewellyn Rhys Prize for Best British Writer Under 35.
Her second novel, THE BOY IN THE SNOW, was a (London) Times Best Crime/Thriller Book of 2012. A full time writer, McGrath has enjoyed teaching creative writing at Roehampton University in London, at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in the USA and at The Arvon Foundation. After spells living in Las Vegas, Nevada and Nicaragua, she is for the time being settled in London and on the Kent coast.
For more on McGrath and her writing, visit her website and connect with her on Twitter and Facebook.
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
This giveaway is for one print copy of THE BONE SEEKER. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and will end Friday, Aug. 8.
To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and following the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient. The winner from this giveaway will have 72 hours to respond after being contacted or another winner will be selected. The email will have ‘Thoughts in Progress M.J. McGrath’s Tour’ in the subject line, just so you know what to watch for (in case it goes into your spam folder).
Thanks for visiting here today. Have you read any of the Edie Kiglatuk Mystery series? If a book’s setting is all about ice and snow, what time of the year do you enjoy reading it the most?
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a Rafflecopter giveaway
