Author Archive

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Crime and Cat-astrophes (A Purr-fect Relic Cozy Mystery)
by DeAnna Drake

 


Crime and Cat-astrophes (A Purr-fect Relic Cozy Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
4th in Series
Setting – California
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Tule Publishing (February 12, 2025)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 199 pages
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DJTZZVH7

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Did the professor get what he deserved, or is murder on the prowl in small-town California?

As a late-summer heat wave scorches the sleepy town of Citrus Grove, the suspicious death of a notoriously unpopular professor puts Rebecca and her talking cat, Aneksi, hot on the trail of another cursed artifact and a killer.

Police Detective Nick Devon, her dashing new flame, is following the rulebook in his investigation, but the Cuthbert Exotic Antiques manager is trusting her instincts as she follows the clues. With her grandfather distracted by an unexpected visitor—who may not be what he seems—and Aneksi rekindling a bond with a long-lost sibling, Rebecca knows she’s on her own to search for the ancient scepter that may hold the key to the dead professor’s medical miracle…and the reason behind his demise.

In this twisty tale of hidden motives, intensifying danger, and a dash of magic, Rebecca must rely on her wits—and, hopefully, Aneksi’s sharp claws—to solve the case before she becomes the cunning murderer’s next victim.

About DeAnna Drake

DeAnna Drake is an award-winning author who writes witty and whimsical cozy mysteries filled with magical animals and feisty heroines who are always striving to balance the scales of justice in an offbeat world.

When she’s not plotting new adventures for her characters, she drinks too much tea, binge-watches crime dramas, and escapes to Disneyland whenever she can.

She lives in Southern California with her family, which includes her two favorite people and one ridiculously pampered border collie.

Author Links: Website / Instagram / Facebook / GoodReads / BookBub

Purchase Link – Amazon 

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 5 – Jody’s Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT  

February 5 – Frugal Freelancer – RECIPE

February 6 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT

February 6 – Eskimo Princess Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 7 – Read Your Writes Book Reviews – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 7 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 8 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 8 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

February 9 – Sneaky the Library Cat’s Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 10 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 10 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 11 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 11 – Sarah Can’t Stop Reading Books – REVIEW

February 12 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 13 – Boys’ Mom Reads! – SPOTLIGHT

February 14 – StoreyBook Reviews – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 14 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – GUEST POST

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To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

 

Book Details:

 Blood Lasts Forever by Jeff Gunhus
Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 256 pages
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Publisher:  Seven Guns Press
Release date:   November 2024
Content Rating:  R. Blood Lasts Forever is a psychological thriller with supernatural elements and similar to a Stephen King novel. While not gratuitous, the story centers on an act of violence that could be disturbing to some. Could be PG-13 + M or R.

Book Description:

Not every death is a tragedy.

When fifteen-year-old Wyatt Bucks is found dead in the Sagasett River, the small town of Chambers breathes a collective sigh of relief. Wyatt was a troubled youth, feared and despised by many. But his death, deemed an accident by the local sheriff, leaves a chilling legacy that will haunt the town for decades.

Twenty years later, Mitch Ansel, now a middle school teacher, receives a call that resurrects the nightmares of his past. Alongside his old friends, the Fab Five, Mitch is forced to confront the dark secret they’ve buried for years—a secret that ties them to Wyatt’s death.

​As the friends reunite at a remote cabin, they must navigate a web of deceit, fear, and violence. Each carries scars from the past, but none are prepared for the revelations that await them. Mitch’s terrifying visions of Wyatt and the relentless pull of their shared guilt threaten to unravel their lives and sanity.

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MY REVIEW

Psychological thrillers are one of my favorite blends of genres. And so is isolating a group of people who think they know each other and have a big shared secret. What could be more thrilling.

In this book, something that was thought to be buried in the past is in danger of coming to light. A blood oath is about to be broken. Which of the five friends, known as the Fab Five in their youth, is wanting to spill their guts. And will the others convince him to be quiet or silence him forever.

The synopsis grabbed me right away. Take some close friends. Put them in an isolated place. Then drop a bomb and see who’s still standing when the dust settles. I particularly like that in group dynamics. I try to guess who will stay strong and who will cave. I’m right some of the time. But this is written by Jeff Gunhus and he’s a master at writing unpredictable characters. Outcomes too.

You’re taken from the present to the past to learn what the big secret is and what the main players have been up to. That worked really well. The pace stayed fast and exciting.

Jeff also doesn’t shy away from writing about the dark side of events and actions. It sure makes for an intense experience.

There was never a dull or awkward moment as I powered through this book. I loved every minute of it.

5 STARS

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Interview With Author Jeff Gunhus:
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How long have you been writing?

I’ve always enjoyed writing—it’s been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I wrote my first ‘book’ at age 12, a 35-page story called The Amulet that actually won an award in Colorado. In college, I wrote a couple of novels too, though those are still hidden away. For me, writing has always been more than just a hobby; it’s an outlet, a way to process ideas and tell the stories that won’t leave me alone.

Do you have another profession?

Yes, I run a national home improvement company called Home Genius Exteriors, which has about 1,000 employees. It’s a big operation, and I love the challenges that come with it. My team thinks my books are crazy, though! I guess running a company and writing thrillers makes for an interesting combination.

There are many books out there about….What makes yours different?

There are a lot of books out there about dark and thrilling stories, but what sets mine apart is the balance I try to strike between edge-of-your-seat suspense and deeper, emotional undercurrents. I love crafting complex, flawed characters who feel real and throwing them into extraordinary situations. My goal is always to give readers a gripping story that keeps them turning pages but also leaves them thinking long after they’ve finished. Whether it’s a supernatural twist or a psychological battle, I always aim to bring something unique to the table.

Do you snack while writing? Favorite snack?

I definitely snack while writing—salty snacks like popcorn or nuts are my go-to. But when I finish a tough scene or hit a big milestone in the book, I celebrate with ice cream. It’s the perfect reward after a long writing session!

What is your favorite travel spot?

My favorite travel spots are places where I can climb around the ruins of ancient civilizations. I’ve climbed Mayan and Egyptian pyramids, explored Greek and Roman ruins, wandered through the incredible historical sites in Istanbul, and visited castles in England and Scotland. There’s something inspiring about standing in places with so much history and imagining the lives of the people who built them.

What’s the most courageous thing you’ve ever done?

The most courageous thing I’ve ever done? Hands down, being the father of five. Forget climbing pyramids or running a company—trying to negotiate bedtime with five kids is where the real bravery comes in. It’s like herding cats, but the cats are hopped up on sugar and bedtime stories!

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Meet  Author Jeff Gunhus:

Jeff Gunhus is the USA TODAY bestselling author of thriller and horror novels for adults and the middle grade/YA series, The Templar Chronicles. The first book, Jack Templar Monster Hunter, was written in an effort to get his reluctant reader eleven-year-old son excited about reading. It worked and a new series was born. His books for adults have reached the Top 30 on Amazon, have been recognized as Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Finalists, Kirkus Top 100 Indie Books, and reached the USA TODAY bestseller list. As a father of five, he leads an active life in Maryland with his wife Nicole by trying to keep up with their kids. In rare moments of quiet, he can be found in the back of Old Fox Books in Annapolis, working on his next novel, or on JeffGunhus.com.

connect with the author:  website  ~  X/twitter  ~  facebook instagram goodreads bookbub


 
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BLOOD LASTS FOREVER by Jeff Gunhus Book Tour Giveaway

 

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

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Damned Yankees is a gripping tale set during
America’s Revolutionary War, where loyalty is tested, and survival is anything
but certain.

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Damned Yankees

by Ray Deptula

Genre: Historical Fiction

Those who fight their nation’s wars are typically
those least able to avoid it.

The world was, is now, and always will be a complicated and
volatile place filled with those whose self-interests supersede more noble
aspirations.

If history has taught us anything, it is that times may
change, but human nature does not.

The competing interests and political tensions of the
formation of our country were no more or less dysfunctional than they are
today, with the best and worst of individual behavior continually on display.

Jack Halliday wants nothing more than to belong
somewhere that provides him with security and values his worth.

In an uncaring world that devours the weak, he is forced to
rely on his strongest attribute, his ability and willingness to fight, which
ironically belies his benevolent nature.

Much like the fledgling union of the thirteen original
colonies, Jack’s rebirth into autonomy constantly teeters on demise in a world
where his decisions are all he can control.

Amazon
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Ray Deptula is a native of Wells, Maine, and a graduate of
Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, Maine.

He spent 24 years in the U.S. Navy as a helicopter pilot and
a political-military officer.

He is a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College in Newport,
Rhode Island with a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic
Studies.

Damned Yankees is the first book Ray has published, having
conceived of it while taking a Revolutionary War elective at the Naval War
College.

Website
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For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

STAR-CROSSED EGG TARTS
by Jennifer J Chow
January 27 – February 21, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

 

 

Synopsis:
A MAGICAL FORTUNE COOKIE NOVEL

  Jin Bakery has been asked to cater the Lum-Wu outdoor wedding at Pixie Park. The day of the ceremony, Felicity is finishing the “cake” of tiered egg tarts as the wedding party arrives for the ceremony. When one of the groomsmen, Miles Wu, doesn’t arrive, Felicity’s best friend and local florist Kelvin generously steps in for him and the wedding goes smoothly―until cake cutting time. That’s when Felicity finds Miles’ dead body beneath the table with her egg tarts display, stabbed by Kelvin’s gardening shears. With the detective’s sights on Kelvin, Felicity starts sleuthing away to prove his innocence, revealing dark secrets about all the wedding’s attendants. They each had something to hide―and a reason to quiet Miles forever. To make matters worse, Felicity’s powers of prediction are on the fritz thanks to the emotional turmoil of a surprise visit from her estranged father.

When the groom gets poisoned at the send-off party and winds up in a coma, the stakes are even higher, not to mention Felicity’s feelings for Kelvin are beginning to feel more than friendly. Will Felicity’s magic return in time to catch the true culprit and rescue her budding relationship with Kelvin?

Praise for the Magical Fortune Cookie series and Jennifer J. Chow:

“A spellbinding whodunit unfolds in the first installment of Jennifer J. Chow’s Magical Fortune Cookie series.” ~ Woman’s World

“The story itself is light, sweet, and delectable. The ensemble of interesting characters adds a crispy texture to the narrative, and, true to the cozy mystery genre, a central mystery―the ill-fated fortune―keeps readers engaged from start to finish.” ~ The Big Thrill

“This first in a new series featuring a likable Chinese American heroine will appeal to fans of Jenn McKinlay, Eve Calder, or Joanne Fluke.” ~ Booklist

“Nobody writes cozy mysteries quite like Jennifer J. Chow. No matter what is going wrong in my life, I know that all I need to do for some comfort is turn to one of Chow’s books. Chow has done it again with Ill-Fated Fortune. I did not want to leave Felicity’s side even for a moment, and you won’t want to either.” ~ Jesse Q. Sutanto, Edgar Award-winning author of Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers

“A magical new culinary cozy mystery series filled with family, friendship, and heart―and a pinch of real magic.” ~ Gigi Pandian, USA Today bestselling author of the Secret Staircase Mysteries on Ill-Fated Fortune

Book Details:

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Amateur Sleuth, Asian American fiction

Published by: Minotaur Publication Date: January 21, 2025 Number of Pages: 352 ISBN: 9781250351623 (ISBN10: 1250351626) Series: The Magical Fortune Cookie series, #2

Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | Minotaur

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MY REVIEW

I love cozy mysteries. When I was getting ready to write this review I had a thought. How did I get started on reading them. And I remembered. I was at the library, casually browsing shelves when a book cover caught my eye. It was colorful and cute and the clever title made me grin, so I checked it out. After having such fun reading it I went back and checked out the rest of the series. Thus, my love of cozies began.

Star-Crossed Egg Tarts checked all my boxes for a cozy. A fun, colorful cover. A clever title. A murder mystery. And entertaining characters with a sprinkling of romance added to the mix.

Speaking of romance. I wondered whether Kelvin and Felicity would pursue more than being friends. They sure worked well together when trying to solve the murder and I really liked them.

Something I forgot to mention is how many cozies have some kind of theme. It often shows in the title and cover. This one had magical baking. That really made me curious. I was wondering if it would be similar to a movie I’d seen some time ago. The woman’s emotions would become a magical ingredient when she baked and the customers would experience those emotions while eating her creations. That wasn’t the case here but it was still intriguing.

I had a lot of fun trying to figure out who the bad guy was and getting to know the characters. This is the second book in the series and now I want to go back and read the first one. I’ll probably reread this after and plan on following this clever series.

4 STARS

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Enjoy this peek inside:

Chapter 1

I put the last egg tart in place on the tiered circular display, stepped back, and admired my handiwork. From a distance, if you squinted and tilted your head just right, you might actually mistake it for a wedding cake made of gold, or Jin. Fitting, since “Jin” was both my surname and the Mandarin word for “gold.” I grinned. Guess I’d been fated for this job.

Happily, I even got to rope in loved ones as other vendors. My best friend, Kelvin Love (who has the most fitting name to cater a wedding), handled the elaborate floral displays. And my godmother, Alma Paz, made the candle arrangements, including the votives for the cake table. She’d even handcrafted bowl-shaped lace holders for each votive candle.

Once the late afternoon dissolved into evening, the small candles would be lit, and the cake made of egg tarts would turn into an enchanting display. Quite literally, because my mom had used her magic to bake joy into every last bite. After all, that’s what we Jins do—pour joy into our signature recipe treats to flow out to others. Except my own brand of magic came with an extra bonus: I made special fortune cookies that provided happiness and accurately predicted future happenings. I added a stash of business cards to the table. I’d been made official co-owner of Jin Bakery with my mom, and I now had business cards to attest to that exciting fact. Besides, I figured it wouldn’t hurt to have my contact info out there. If people were in the area for the wedding, maybe they’d decide to check out our local bakery, too. Plus, many of the guests were from nearby Fresno, the bride’s hometown, though a fair share hailed from up north, where the groom’s relatives lived. It wasn’t too much of a trek from NorCal to visit Pixie, right? Not for delicious egg tarts, pineapple buns, and fortune cookies, all coated with magic. “It’s beautiful,” someone whispered from near my shoulder. I would have startled at the interruption, but the voice was so gentle, it didn’t scare me in the least. A bridesmaid must have snuck into the main tent without my noticing. Maybe the soft grass surrounding the tent had masked her footsteps. Or she’d minced along in those stiletto sandals. She was a wisp of a young woman, just a few years past twenty. Even though I was twenty-eight, I couldn’t imagine having ever been so bright-eyed and hopeful as the girl before me. The twin honey-colored braids wrapped around her head only added to her youthfulness. “Haley, was it?” I asked. She nodded, almost bouncing on her heels. “You remembered my name.” “It’s distinctive. Very pretty.” She flushed a sweet shade of pink. “I like your name, too. Felicity is lovely.” “Is that a rose tucked behind your ear?” I asked, pointing to the blossom, the full pink petals brushing up against a tiny golden ear cuff lined with diamonds. She widened her green eyes at me. “Uh, is that okay? I mean, do you mind? Are you and Kelvin together—” “It’s fine,” I said, waving away her concern. “Kelvin and I are just friends.” Best friends, technically. “I take it he’s still working on the flower arch outside?” “Said he was ‘securing the petals.’” Kelvin was a stickler for floral quality. Guess that’s what made us good entrepreneurs in our little town of Pixie. I glanced at Haley’s T-shirt and jeans. “What time is it? Do you need to change?” “Four forty-five,” she said. “I better get ready.” The wedding guests would show up at six. Right now, only us hired help and the wedding party, plus the parents of the bride and groom, were roaming the surrounding green space. “Jada’s in our tent doing makeup, and she said she’d help me,” Haley said. “I should get going, too.” I’d promised the bride, Leanne, that I’d check on the tea ceremony. Not that I’d be super helpful. I’m third-gen Chinese American and had had to google what the traditional tea ritual entailed. I followed Haley’s bouncing steps out of the larger main tent into the lush green of Pixie Park. Our town’s biggest park definitely had enough space for the Lum-Wu ceremony. The bride and groom had asked to pitch four tents for the event: a reception tent for food, his and her tents for wedding prep, and a tent for the traditional tea serving ritual. Pixie Park also boasted a large hill, and it was sure to look magnificent with its aerial view for the actual wedding ceremony and exchanging of vows. Kelvin was on the hill now, fussing over the flowers on the custom arch he’d made. I waved at him. He bobbed his head at me, his fingers still patting petals into place. Kelvin looked good fancied up, in a dress shirt and pressed slacks. His usual go-to was a casual Henley and jeans. There was a rainbow of beautiful blossoms decorating the immense arch he’d constructed. I didn’t know why Kelvin was so worried. There wasn’t a breeze to be found. It was perfect, and the flowers should stay put. If anything, the temperature was slightly too warm today. Thankfully, it was dry heat, typical of the San Joaquin Valley. Whoever thought tea was a great idea in July had not factored in the weather. Then again, traditions were important. I headed over to the tea tent, and as soon as I put my head through the flap, Leanne squealed. “You came to help. Thank goodness,” she said. The bride-to-be wore a red qipao with a golden phoenix trailing down the front. Her hair was pinned up, and pearls were scattered across the hairdo as decoration, matching the dangling pearl earrings she wore. “How can I assist?” I asked. “With the hot plate. You’re good in the kitchen. Er, bakery. Can you get it started?” “I can try.” I mean, I was hired to cater the cake, not the tea. But I’d done the bare minimum online research. Maybe I could fake my way through. *** Excerpt from Star-Crossed Egg Tarts by Jennifer J Chow. Copyright 2025 by Jennifer J Chow. Reproduced with permission from St. Martin’s Publishing Group. All rights reserved.

 

 

About Author Jennifer J Chow:

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Jennifer J Chow

Agatha, Anthony, Lefty, and Lilian Jackson Braun Award-nominated author. Jennifer J. Chow writes cozy mysteries filled with hope and heritage.

Catch Up With Jennifer J Chow: www.JenniferJChow.com Amazon Author Profile Goodreads BookBub – @jenniferjchow Instagram – @jenjchow Threads – @jenjchow Facebook – @JenJChow

 

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This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Tours for Jennifer J Chow. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.

 

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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In the world of internet legends, time traveler John Titor
is the ultimate prize.

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I Am John Titor

by Niamh Arthur & Sean Platt

Genre: Science Fiction, Time Travel

In the world of internet legends, time traveler John
Titor is the ultimate prize.

Idealistic filmmaker Ramon Jimenez is stuck shooting mundane
reality shows when he longs to create documentaries that change the world. But
needing to keep food on the table has put his ambitions on hold…

Until Ramon spots a broken-down car linked to John Titor, an
infamous internet legend who, at the turn of the century, claimed to be a time
traveler from 2036. This could be the break he’s waiting for – if he can find a
fresh angle.

RJ tracks down six different witnesses – each claiming to
know “the real” John Titor.

But their stories don’t add up.

One says Titor was sent from the future to stop a
world-ending war.

Another insists he was nothing more than a bored college kid
creating an internet hoax to impress his frat brothers.

A third claims to have been set up to take the fall in an
elaborate heist orchestrated by Titor in 1970s New York.

As RJ dives deeper, the lines between fact and fiction blur.
Who was John Titor? Was he really from the future, or just a cleverly spun
hoax? The closer RJ gets to the truth, the higher the stakes become.

I Am John Titor is a time-traveling epic that
jumps between decades, genres, and timelines as RJ tries to solve the mystery
of the true legend of John Titor.

 

Amazon
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Time was disappearing on him, so he had no other choice. He had to turn on the machine, and that meant flicking on the Variable Gravity Lock system, then entering a code.
Once done, he heard a loud chirp from an angry alarm, then a small light to trigger the short countdown as he secured himself in his seat and energy began to crackle around the car, a bright blue bubble of electricity as he stared out his windshield. Then the Mustang squealed to a stop several feet in front of him. The driver’s face — one the traveler had known forever — looked stricken.
But that was all according to plan.
I’m sorry, the man mouthed.
The Chevy shimmered, streaks of rainbow light radiating out from the metal frame.
The air grew heavy with the scent of burning rubber and ozone as a high-pitched whine echoed throughout the garage, like a vacuum cleaner on the fritz.
And then the world disappeared.

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Niamh Arthur (pronounced Neeve) is the CEO and
Genre Trends Specialist at Sterling & Stone. She moved to Ireland at 18 to
attend the renowned Drama and Theatre Studies program at Trinity College
Dublin, where she focused on film studies and wrote a senior dissertation on
how cultural ideologies are expressed in modern Hollywood film. She went on to
study marketing with a focus on audience response, psychology, and brand
bonding.

After more than fifteen years running a successful business
teaching entrepreneurs how to use story to connect with an audience Niamh
realized that she was missing her favorite part of storytelling: fiction. She
leapt at the chance to join Sterling & Stone as CEO and as Sean’s writing
partner. She uses her deep understanding of emotional triggers, audience
response, genre, and commercial trends to ensure stories hit the mark and
create long lasting impact on the audience.

After 20 years in Ireland she now lives in Colorado with her
husband and two children.

Website * Amazon
* Goodreads

 

Sean Platt has always been an entrepreneur but knew
he’d rather tell stories. When his wife bought him a laptop for his birthday in
2007, he dropped everything to start writing fiction.

Since making the leap, Sean has written hundreds of novels
(including the international best-sellers Yesterday’s Gone and Invasion),
penned dozens of scripts, and founded the IP Incubator Sterling & Stone,
where more than thirty storytellers work together to create world-changing IP.
Sterling & Stone’s stable of writers come to Sean for ideas, mentorship,
and “better words.”

Originally from Long Beach, California, Sean now lives in
Austin, Texas with his wife and dog, Fisher.

Website * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

$25 Amazon giftcard
– 2 winners!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Today Mallory McCartney, Anuci Press, and Rockstar Book Tours are
revealing the cover for THE EXCHANGE & OTHER CALAMITIES, her Horror
Anthology book which releases July 22nd! Check out the awesome cover and enter
the giveaway!

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On to the reveal! 

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THE EXCHANGE & OTHER CALAMITIES

Author: Mallory McCartney

Pub. Date: July 22, 2025

Publisher: Anuci Press

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Find it: Goodreads 

 

Evil lurks in the darkness, clawing its way towards unsuspecting
victims… 
 

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A woman living with fibromyalgia finds an artifact that unleashes a
reality she never thought possible… at a steep price.
 

Two high school seniors take part in a tradition that brings them face to
face with the monstrous truth behind a haunting dark urban legend. 

The face behind a popular Youtube ghost hunting show travels to the scene
of a horrific event to find fresh horrors await there. 
 

Fate takes a bite out of a young woman who ventures into the wilderness
to grieve her mother.
 

Best-selling author, Theo Anderson, takes part in a sleep study that
turns her into the very thing she fears.

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Hold your breath as you immerse yourself in five harrowing stories
written by best-selling author, Mallory McCartney. Fans of her gripping Black
Dawn Series
will be kept on the edge of their seat by this horror
collection inspired by real life events!


“Mrs. McCartney has boldly taken her first foray into
horror, and I’m proud to say it’s ridiculously fun. I’ve read my fair share of
horror, but McCartney writes in a way that made even my stomach turn at points.
It takes a lot of skill to successfully create an atmosphere suitable for the
horrific things happening throughout this book, but she does it here and then
some, making you feel like you’re smackdab in the middle of it all. By the time
I turned the last page I felt like I’d been put through the wringer, and I
can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.”
Patrick Delaney author of Witch
13, The House that Fell from the Sky
 

 

Enjoy this peek inside:

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“I shut the mirror with a click and froze. Fear dripped
through me, starting at the crown of my head and dousing my body so completely,
my mind went blank. A scream lodged firmly in my throat—I couldn’t utter a
sound. Fire and ice raced through my veins, churning my stomach, and bile rose
in my throat.

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Fingers had appeared from thin air, and they grew and morphed
into inky claws. They curled over my shoulder and gripped it hard. Then, with
pallid skin, the rest of the intruder appeared.”

 

“The creature’s grip only hardened.

My eyes rolled back. My lungs screamed for oxygen, for
release. In our reflection, which I caught in blurred moments, my face was
purple, my mouth hanging open in a silent scream. The creature pulled me
closer. Its other arm wrapped around my waist. Where before it had no defined
eye sockets, there now sat two massive orbs.

And they burned red.”

 

“Something moved to my left. My steps faltered, and my
response faded. It was the middle of the day, but in the hallway, the shadows
deepened. On the wall in front of me, the painting was of a man wearing a
collared shirt and a serious expression. His gaunt cheekbones made his eyes
look more sunken. The bland yellow background with nothing in it drew the
viewer in, but cast a greenish hue to the whole picture. He looked sick. The
whole painting did.

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My bottom lip trembled and I bit it so hard, the metallic
taste of blood filled my mouth.

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Stepping closer to the painting, I watched as blood—real
blood—poured from this man’s eyes, words appearing to write themselves along
his chest:

You are mine now.”

 

 

About Author Mallory McCartney:

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Mallory McCartney currently lives in Sarnia, Ontario with her
husband, their dachshunds Link, and Leonard and their sphynx cats Luna,
Legolas, Ivy and Lily. When she isn’t working on her next novel or reading, she
can be found day dreaming about fantasy worlds or bingeing her favorite horror
movies.

Website
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| Amazon | BookBub

 

 

 

 

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The Mystery in the Margins: A Cozy Mystery

(Havenwood Paranormal Cozy Mysteries)

by L.L. Gray

 


The Mystery in the Margins: A Cozy Mystery (Havenwood Paranormal Cozy Mysteries)
Paranormal Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Connecticut
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Heroic Rose Publishing (August 25, 2024)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 258 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 195887339X
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1958873397
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 258 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1958873217
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1958873212
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CR81NTNC

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A quaint bookshop, a sprinkle of magic, and a dash of mystery.

Harper Sullivan yearns for a place to call home, preferably with a delightful bakery nearby. When news arrives that she’s inherited her great-grandmother’s bookshop in the charming town of Havenwood, Harper eagerly seizes the chance. Unbeknownst to her, the quaint bookshop carries more than just shelves of stories—it harbors inherited mysteries and a touch of magical mayhem.

But instead of the cozy haven she envisioned, Harper finds herself entangled in inheritance drama, a surprising cousin rivalry, and a daring book thief on the loose. Can she use her wits and witchy powers to untangle the mystery and safeguard her dreams from unraveling before they even begin?

Crack the case today! Grab your copy and solve the mystery!

About L.L. Gray 

L.L. Gray writes warm, witty, and whimsical cozy mysteries filled with magic, mystery, and a dash of humor. Her books transport readers to charming worlds where lovable characters navigate twists and turns with a touch of magic. A lifelong lover of fantasy and myths, L.L. Gray blends humor and heart, crafting stories that feel like coming home. When she’s not writing, she’s often battling gnomes and other magical mischief-makers with her kids or connecting with readers online.

Author Links: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Goodreads / BookBub

Purchase Link – Amazon 

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 3 – Jody’s Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT

February 4 – Baroness Book Trove – REVIEW

February 4 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 6 – Angel’s Book Nook – SPOTLIGHT

February 7 – Frugal Freelancer – CHARACTER INTERVIEW, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

February 8 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

February 9 – Sarah Can’t Stop Reading Books – REVIEW  

February 10 – Storybook Lady – REVIEW

February 11 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 12 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – CHARACTER GUEST POST, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

February 13 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW

February 14 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 15 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT

February 16 – Cozy Up WIth Kathy – REVIEW- AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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Sins of the Fire
by Phoenix Ward

 

(Sins of the Fire, #1)
Publication date: September 13th 2024
Genres: Fantasy, New Adult, Young Adult

No one knows dragons coexisted with humans.

Ancient times long past, we shared magic, weapons and even our very souls with these creatures. Society’s connection between them spanned the test of time, through art, stories, and spoken word. Yet though depictions remain, they no longer exist.

Christian armies, believing these creatures to be devils, laid siege to end their species in a wild pursuit of their Promised Land. Bloodshed for nearly two centuries suddenly came to an end. Concurrently, those winged beasts, admired and feared, were extinguished without a trace.

It’s 2028, and the Crusades are talked about in my college classes. One dragon was able to escape it all by sealing itself in a blade. If such a blade existed, and anyone were to lift it today, they’d reignite the war long dormant—An affront on God himself.

I’m Kane, by the way. Kane Wynde. And this is Mysherra, the affront to God.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“You shall be tied to the blade, for as long as your mind and spirit remain. Is this acceptable?”

The earth shook, and the rumble of fire howled from outside of the cave. An ultimatum laid before me. To bind myself within the blade would mean giving up my freedom for eternity. To fight a war that threatened to burn the earth to its core would mean my death. The Gods have brought upon us a calamity no mortal could ever hope to quell. Humans who were once close to us rallied for our demise. Our kind torched them, their lands, and their ilk in sport. Whichever side won, there would be no true victor. Only ash.

Would it be acceptable to live the rest of my life as a weapon? Would it be better if I died fighting a lost cause?

Imprisonment or death; my options were narrow.

Looking down at the human, dressed in burns, I pondered what he thought. He bore no hatred. He held no contempt for my kind after what happened. He agreed to fight alongside me with eyes ablaze with passion. I wondered why. What would make someone turn a blind eye to the wounds inflicted by a beast of my caliber? What allowed him to grace my hand, still slick with the residue of death, and find camaraderie in the midst of devastation?

The silence of the cave was beginning to draw on my senses, my own thoughts starting to cloud the noise of the carnage.

We agreed to fight together, but fear was a wise and stringent guide. Regardless of it, I had to make a choice.

“This is acceptable.”

“In doing this, you will relinquish your body. Your essence shall be ripped completely from within. Your magic, your strength and your flames will be in the hands of your wielder. Is this acceptable?”

My heart shuddered. It would hurt. I would die, yet I would live. What would happen to my body? Would my heart sit in silence, left to rot in its empty temple? Would my flesh be torn away with my spirit? Again, I looked towards the human. His gaze held mine. Though twisted and bloated, he held me in their comfort. He smiled. He did not need to reassure me with words nor tender touch.

“This is acceptable.”

“The process shall span the turn of the moon. With the dawn, you shall awaken in your new form. Do you accept the terms  of the pact?”

“I accept.”

The dragon’ s eyes flashed. “The terms have been set, and the pact is complete. May fortune favor you, Mysherra.”

As the sword began to gleam, I closed my eyes.

Tingling spread across my body as the sensation of my insides were pulled from within me. And thus, through a pain that transcended anything inflicted upon my hide of scales, I accepted my fate.

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About Author Phoenix Ward:

Phoenix Ward is an indie black writer, and educator from Philadelphia. He has worked in the field of education for over five years, teaching all grades Mathematics and English. When he’s not writing, he is composing music using Logic Pro X, or tutoring children on subjects they struggle in. Currently, he lives in Philadelphia with his dog and cat.

An avid world-builder, Phoenix has created many stories from youth to adulthood, but none have captivated him as much as his latest work Sins of the Fire, which combines his passion for storytelling with his deep understanding of human nature. He draws inspiration from the vibrant city life of Philadelphia and his own experiences as an educator, infusing his narratives with authenticity and depth.

In addition to his work as a writer and educator, Phoenix is committed to supporting young creatives in their journeys. He actively encourages students and adults alike to seek a way to create their own stories. Everyone has a message to share, and doing so in story is the best way to do so.

Website / Goodreads

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

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A Tisket A Tasket Not Another Casket: A Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mystery
by Heather Weidner

 


A Tisket A Tasket Not Another Casket: A Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mystery
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Setting – Virginia
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Level Best Books (January 14, 2025)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 277 pages
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DRZ7N3XW

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Excitement is in the air as everyone in Mermaid Bay is preparing for the Christmas season. This year promises to be more dazzling than ever when the business council sponsors a competition for the town’s lucrative summer fireworks contract. The quaint little beach town is ready to be wowed with choreographed shows and drone action that light up the night sky.

Instead of goodwill and sparkles, two of the teams take the competition to new lows with corporate espionage, feuds, and sabotage, and Jade and her team at ‘Tis the Season are ground zero for all the explosive action. When one of the competitors turns up murdered near Jade’s shop, she has to solve the mystery before the holidays are ruined.

About Heather Weidner

Through the years, Heather Weidner has been a cop’s kid, technical writer, editor, college professor, software tester, and IT manager. She writes the Jules Keene Glamping Mysteries, the Mermaid Bay Christmas Shoppe Mysteries, the Delanie Fitzgerald Mysteries, and the Pearly Girls Mysteries.

Her short stories appear in the Virginia is for Mysteries series, 50 Shades of Cabernet, Deadly Southern Charm, and Murder by the Glass, and she has non-fiction pieces in Promophobia and The Secret Ingredient: A Mystery Writers’ Cookbook.

She is a member of Sisters in Crime: National, Central Virginia, Chessie, Guppies, and Grand Canyon Writers, International Thriller Writers, and James River Writers, and she blogs regularly with the Writers Who Kill.

Originally from Virginia Beach, Heather has been a mystery fan since Scooby-Doo and Nancy Drew. She lives in Central Virginia with her husband and a pair of Jack Russell terriers.

Author Links: Website and Blog / Facebook / Threads / BlueSky / TikTok

Instagram / Goodreads / Amazon / BookBub / Twitter/X

Purchase Link – Amazon 

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TOUR PARTICIPANTS

January 29 – Jody’s Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT

January 29 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

January 30 – Baroness Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT

January 30 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR GUEST POST

January 31 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 1 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLGHT

February 2 – Deal Sharing Aunt – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 3 – Frugal Freelancer – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

February 3 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

February 4 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

February 5 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 6 – Ruff Drafts – RECIPE POST

February 7 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW

February 8 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

February 9 – Maureen’s Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 10 – StoreyBook Reviews – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 11 – Eskimo Princess Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

 

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Dare to dream. Dare to believe. Dare to embrace your
legacy.

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Orphan Pascal and his friends Paloma and Pierrot dive into
the mystery of children disappearing in the enchanting land of The Vale.

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The Harlequin’s Legacy

Book 1

by Andrés Rosas Hott

Genre: YA Fantasy

Dare to dream. Dare to believe. Dare to embrace your
legacy.

In the enchanting land of The Vale, the grand city of Pivot
stands as a beacon of innovation where scientific progress clashes with the
now-dwindling beliefs in magic that the place once held.

Just outside of Pivot, 17-year-old Pascal has spent his life
at The Skystead Home for Orphaned Children. Life outside the orphanage seems
ceaselessly interesting, and shielded from the rest of the world, he wants
nothing more than to explore. Already puzzled by unanswered questions about his
past, Pascal’s concern deepens as he learns about a grim mystery of local
children’s disappearances.

In pursuit of finding his place in life, Pascal is joined by
Paloma—a street-savvy girl and former gang leader with a tragic past—and
Pierrot—a silent, enigmatic companion. Together, the unlikely trio begins to
sneak out of the orphanage to experience the one place that still embraces
magic: the welcoming carnival.

As secrets begin to unravel, the truth unveils hidden powers
within each of these three young adventurers. Their friendships are challenged
as they overcome demons, both inside and outside themselves. Yet, each step
brings them closer to the truth: a sinister plot that threatens the very fabric
of their world.

Before they know it, the fate of the missing children has
become inextricably intertwined with their own.

The Harlequin’s Legacy is a gripping tale
of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. Pascal, Paloma, and Pierrot trust
in their inner courage and resilience to reach their true potential despite
trials and tribulations. This story encourages everyone to dare to dream, to
believe in themselves, and embrace the legacy that awaits them.

Adventure, magic, and self-discovery await! Are
you ready to join Pascal and his friends as they uncover hidden secrets and
embrace a timeless legacy? Witness the journey firsthand—grab your copy
of The Harlequin’s Legacy today and become part of the story!

Amazon
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Meet Andrés Rosas Hott, an emerging voice in literature and
the author of The Harlequin’s Legacy. With a master’s in Graphic
Design and Illustration from Konstfack University and a background as a
commercial director, Andrés blends creativity and storytelling in captivating
ways.

His debut novel, inspired by his favorite character, The
Harlequin, combines fantasy with themes of courage, identity, and personal
growth. Based in Stockholm, Sweden, Andrés balances his creative pursuits with
family life, finding inspiration in both the imagination and his loved
ones. The Harlequin’s Legacy is just the beginning of an
exciting journey into fantasy and self-discovery.

Website
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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.