Posts Tagged ‘guest post’

Reign Of Terror By Leo Silva ~ Author Interview And Giveaway

Posted: February 9, 2025 in Author Interview, Excerpt, giveaways, Memoir, thriller, true crime
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Reign of Terror by Leo Silva is a gripping true crime memoir that takes readers deep inside the brutal world of Mexico’s Los Zetas cartel. Follow a rollercoaster of suspense, intrigue, and unrelenting action as you delve into this heart-pounding thriller.

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Reign of Terror

by Leo Silva

Genre: True Crime Memoir, Thriller

 

“One of the best DEA narco books I have ever read” – Dave Gaddis, DEA Chief, Global Enforcement Operations

 

Reign of Terror by Leo Silva is a gripping true crime memoir that takes readers deep inside the brutal world of Mexico’s Los Zetas cartel. Former DEA Special Agent Silva brings unparalleled insight, recounting his years on the front lines in the relentless fight against one of the world’s most violent criminal organizations. This powerful narrative unveils the hidden realities of the drug war, from the complex relationships between the cartels and law enforcement to the personal sacrifices made by those who risk everything to protect others. With raw detail and authenticity, Silva sheds light on the lives of those entangled in a web of corruption, power, and violence. Reign of Terror is more than a recount of battles won and lost—it’s a story of courage, resilience, and the cost of justice. A must-read for fans of true crime and international intrigue.

“In Reign of Terror, Leo Silva masterfully recounts the rise and fall of the notorious and ultra-violent Los Zetas cartel. But more than just retelling the story, Leo’s work is filled with inside information and insights that bring the reader into the world of those tasked with dismantling Los Zetas. Compelling, Leo brings profound humanity to the fight against the Zetas, a fight that brought both victories and tragedies, all of which are deeply felt by the reader.”
–  Jack Luellen, Author of Someone Had to Die Podcast Host: “Cartels, Conspiracies and Camarena”

 

**Get it for Only $3.99 on Kindle!**

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It was a scorching hot day on July 14, 2007, not unlike most summer days in deep south Texas. The kids were out of school and were eager to take a dip in the pool. I decided I would barbecue some burgers for the kids, and some ribs for some friends and family who would visit later in the afternoon. Because of all the pressure we had been under during the investigation, I had not celebrated my birthday. But today I was going to forget about work and celebrate my birthday the way any self-respecting Texan would celebrate, with beer and barbecue, surrounded by friends and family. I had the ribs marinating in my special marinade of pineapple juice, lime juice, soy sauce and a tinge of ginger and I had just lit the charcoal in my old pit when my wife came out to tell me she was going to make a quick run to the store because I had forgotten to buy her favorite side dish, corn, when I bought the meat earlier. I’m not sure what compelled me to assure her it was alright and that I would fetch the corn, while she stayed at home and supervised the kids in the pool. I have often thought about that specific moment and wonder what would have happened if I had not gone.

I took my wife’s gray 2002 Ford Focus with a “Hello Kitty” sticker in the rear windshield and hauled ass to the grocery store. The layout of the store was as familiar to me as the back of my hand. I knew it so well I could probably run through the entire store blindfolded and still find whatever I needed. I got my shopping cart, went straight to the produce section, and parked my shopping cart in front of the corn section. Carefully shucking the hulls and inspecting each ear, I started in on the corn to make sure there were no defects on the kernels, intent on getting home to cook the ribs and burgers.

As I was inspecting one ear of corn, three men turned the corner from the meat section into the produce section. I locked eyes briefly with a stocky built older man with grayish hair. The two men with him were much younger and walked behind the older man, in deference to his authority. They all passed by me on my right-hand side. I noticed that one of the younger men put his hand on the older man’s back, in a somewhat protective posture. I had seen the old man somewhere. The old computer in my brain started a file search in the most cavernous, obscure, and remote depths of my intellect. It transported me back to my office, to my desk, where I had posted a picture of Carlos Landin Martinez on the wall next to my door. Every day, for two years, the picture stared at me callously, devoid of feeling, almost mockingly.

I immediately went into high gear. Before taking any further action, I had to confirm for a fact that it was Landin, without a doubt. I watched them as they made their way in the produce section to the watermelon section. Landin himself picked out a large watermelon and gave it to one of the younger guys to inspect. I pushed my shopping cart closer to them so I could get a better look and confirm that it was Landin. I passed within 8 feet of him and got a good look at his face and confirmed that it was him. He glanced up as I passed them by, and we locked eyes again. The adrenalin was surging through every artery in my body, pumping out charges of electricity through my bloodstream. I could feel my carotid artery pulsating as the adrenaline flooded my blood stream. They placed their watermelon into their shopping cart and went to the checkout. While I was standing in line about four aisles away, I watched them through my peripheral vision, careful not to spook them or lose sight of them. I went through the checkout and paid for the corn, trying to fit in with the rest of the customers, despite wearing a shirt with the official DEA logo over the left side of my chest. I would not get close enough for him to notice that minor detail. They finished paying for the watermelon and they walked out of the north side exit of the store. I had parked on the south side, which could pose a problem for me, and I prayed they had not parked on the north side of the store—if they had, I might not get to see their vehicle.

Luckily, they were relaxed, taking their time to walk through the parking lot. I got the bag of corn, ran to the south side of the store, and quickly got into my wife’s “Hello Kitty” car just as they opened the door to a white Chevrolet pickup truck and got in.

We were in business!

They maneuvered their truck through the parking lot exiting on the south side, where I happened to be waiting. They left the store parking lot and approached 10th street, the principal thoroughfare in McAllen, Texas. I was behind them with two cars between us. It occurred to me then that if they made me, they would turn my wife’s Hello kitty car into Swiss cheese, with me in it. They turned south on 10th and then immediately turned into a car wash. I nearly panicked as they got out of the truck, as I didn’t want to lose them. But I remained calm and drove past the car wash and pulled into a furniture store parking lot that gave me a perfect view of them.

Landin and one individual got into a four-door sedan parked near the exit of the car wash and waited as the other individual took care of business with the car wash. I watched patiently as the other guy emerged from the car wash and entered the sedan on the passenger side, with Landin seated in the back. It was at this point that I pulled out my Nextel and called my McAllen PD task force officer, Erik Torres, gave him the description of the suspect vehicle, and my wife’s hello Kitty vehicle and told him to send me a unit immediately for a possible traffic stop. I could barely control my breathing as I spoke to Erik. I told him to keep it low profile because I wanted to make sure it was, in fact, Carlos Landin before letting anyone else know, especially the bosses in Houston.

When they left, the car was moving within the flow of traffic, going south on 10th street. I followed them cautiously for what seemed like an eternity. Erik called me and informed me that he had notified a unit in the area. Right after he said this, a McAllen PD unit pulled up alongside me and the officer gestured to me, as if asking which car. I pointed to the white four-door sedan, and he gave me a thumbs up and proceeded south on 10th behind the vehicle. Erik was in communication with the officer and gave me a play-by-play as the events developed. I dropped back and let the officer do his job. At the intersection of 10th and La Vista, the driver of the vehicle runs a red light, and the officer immediately pulls up behind him and flashes his emergency lights. The car with the three men pulled over, and I passed them up and pulled into an adjacent parking lot to watch the action.

The officer approached the vehicle, interacted with the occupants of the vehicle, and asked for their respective identification. My heart was pounding as I considered the magnitude of what was about to happen. The officer returns to his vehicle and calls Erik, who then calls me and says, “Leo, it’s him. It’s Carlos Landin Martinez! What do you want to do with him?”

“Get some more units to back up this officer and let’s lock him up!”

Within minutes, the place was swarming with McAllen PD units, and I watched as they handcuffed Landin and put him in the back of a patrol unit. His life would never be the same. My next call was to Jimmy Bird. He genuinely thought I was fucking with him.

I told him, “Jimmy, call Erik and get all the details, then call the AUSA assigned to the case and let her know what just happened. We have a lot of work to do before Monday and no, I am not fucking with you. Now get off the phone so I can call the boss and let him know.”

He let out a whooping victory cry before hanging up the phone.

So, I called my boss. He called his boss. And they called Washington, DC. Before dusk, the Administrator of the DEA was aware of what had transpired that Saturday afternoon in McAllen, Texas. I called our office in Monterrey to let them know. The rush of excitement swept through the whole agency like wildfire. I was taking and making calls all over the place, but there was one call I forgot to make in all the excitement. I forgot to call my wife and let her know I had gotten busy. She called me and when I saw the name on the incoming call list, my heart sank.

She had been worried sick, but I explained what happened and assured her I would be home soon. She understood. They always do.

Landin went to trial and on January of 2008, a jury of his peers found him guilty on 29 counts of charges ranging from Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 150 kilograms of cocaine, laundering over $1.5million in drug proceeds and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana. For these crimes, he received a sentenced of life in prison, where he died in December 2021.

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So I revert to the question. Was it destiny or circumstance that brought us together?

All I know is that I did not wake up on the morning of July 14, intending or expecting to capture one of the most notorious members of the Gulf Cartel. I woke up expecting I would have a fun filled day with my family.

I truly believe destiny brought us together on that summer afternoon in July, and I often wonder what would have happened if I hadn’t gone to the store for corn at that specific time on that specific day. Why had I taken my wife’s place? There is no logic or order to be found in it like so much in this world. Hell, his wife probably sent him out for a watermelon for a family gathering as well. Our paths crossed because of our love for and commitment to our families. Isn’t that ironic?

I have always been curious what leads a man to a life of crime. In my research, I interviewed an old classmate of Landin’s from Primaria Articulo 1, an elementary school in Reynosa Tamaulipas. The classmate told me that even as a kid, Landin had always been a bully, picking on weaker or smaller kids. The classmate recalled a time when, for no reason, Landin brutally beat on a much younger classmate in the playground, leaving him on the ground, bloodied and practically unconscious. Landin just laughed it off as if it were a big joke. As they got older, the classmate withdrew from Landin and the company he kept, stating that Landin never seemed to have any parental supervision and was always on his own, doing whatever he wanted to do, He drank alcohol at fourteen, and avoided school altogether. So, from an early age, Landin lived a life of crime and violence, causing harm to others and had no remorse for it. He had to know that his life of crime would end someday—and it did, on that scorching hot summer day in July.

I did what I had to do, what I was trained to do, and what I love to do. I certainly don’t have any regrets and never will.

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What is something unique/quirky about you?

 

My passion and love for writing goes hand in hand in hand with my passion for music. In my family, I represent the fourth generation of musicians, with a love for music that is deeply embedded in my soul. I am both a singer and piano player and a huge fan of all musical genres with a special affinity for jazz and traditional Mexican boleros. My writing is interspersed with references to music and songs as I believe music plays a huge role in our daily lives and emotions.

 

Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

 

I am a native of Brownsville, Texas, a coastal city in deep south Texas. My love for reading books and writing stories was nurtured by my mother, who is an avid reader herself. In college, I majored in English with a concentration in American Literature and honed my writing skills under the tutelage of a highly talented professor. After college, I joined the US Drug Enforcement Administration as a Special Agent where I served in various assignments along the Southwest border and in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico for a total of 28 years of service. My experiences as a DEA agent provide the backdrop for my writing. My first book Reign of Terror depicts my experience in Monterrey Mexico and the DEA’s struggle to assist in the apprehension of some of their most violent members.

 

Who is your hero and why?

 

Without question, my heroes are my parents, who taught me valuable life lessons at a young age. Lessons which have helped shape my character and lessons that I have passed onto my own children. My writing makes several references to the advice and lessons my parents have given me over the course of my life.

What inspired you to write Reign of Terror?

 

In my college years, I always dreamt about writing a book one day. After I retired from DEA, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to tell my story in Reign of Terror. I often see the narrative about El Chapo Guzman being played out in the news, movies, books and series but hardly anyone knows about the other Cartels that exist in Mexico, especially the Gulf Cartel, one of the oldest if not the oldest Cartel in Mexico. Reign of Terror gave me the opportunity to show the public that Chapo Guzman was not the only player in town and that there were people far more dangerous and treacherous than El Chapo.

 

Convince us why you feel your story is a must read.

 

Reign of Terror gives one the opportunity to immerse oneself into the darkest corners of Mexico’s Narco underworld. It is a collection of true stories, true events, victories and defeats, a rollercoaster of emotions told by someone who lived it firsthand.

 

What is your advice to new authors?

 

My advice to young writers is to be persistent and realize that writing is a marathon not a race. There may be days when one doesn’t feel like writing and that is OK.  But keep chipping away at it until you have told your story the way you want. Persist, every day, even if you only write one sentence. It will all be worthwhile when you are finally done.

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Leonardo “Leo” Silva is a native of Brownsville, TX, a charming seaside city on the border. He is a 1982 graduate of Homer Hanna High School and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature from the University of Texas-Brownsville in 1985. He served as a Special Agent/ Supervisory Special Agent with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration from 1987 to 2015. During his career, he was assigned to offices along the Southwest border, Guadalajara, Jalisco and Monterrey Nuevo Leon, Mexico.

 

Website * Facebook * Facebook * X * X * Instagram * LinkedIn

 

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Choice of Print or ebook copy of Reign of Terror,

$20 Amazon giftcard

– 1 winner each!

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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.

Cardinals By Ian Conner ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: February 3, 2025 in Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: ,
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A completely new twist on Stoker’s tale.

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Cardinals

by Ian Conner

Genre: Dark Paranormal Fantasy

A completely new twist on Stoker’s tale.

Nine Hundred years before Christ, God has cast his wife,
Asherah, out of heaven and condemned her to roam the earth as the first
vampire. Over the centuries, she created other vampires. There are also those
that she left for dead but survived her attack without being completely turned
into vampires. These survivors are called Cardinals. Scottish Countess Kellena
Donnachaidh and Lady Suzette Allard, our protagonists, are among these
cardinals. They are searching out Asherah for a final conflict.

Asherah has discovered a way back to heaven so she can exact
her vengeance. Using the Amulet of Cassiel she can call the Flaming chariot of
Israel to return to heaven Now, 3000 years later, there are groups working to
destroy Asherah and the vampires. The Vatican and other groups, fearing their
own destruction if she ascends, simply want to stop Asherah using the Amulet of
Cassiel to re-enter heaven. The race to recover the Amulet is full of intrigue,
betrayal.

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The wolf was watching Angus and Kellena but displaying no aggression.

“Birds of a feather,” Angus said, looking between Kellena and the wolf.

“Timberland. That seems a fitting name.” she said with certainty.

“Tell the stable hand to bring more meat and water,” she continued to stroke the wolf’s fur. She seemed to accept the name she’d been given without objection.

Kellena nursed the wolf back to proper health almost overnight, much like Kellena and Suzette’s recovery in London. In a week’s time, the two were inseparable. Except for Angus, Suzette was the only other person in the household who could speak to or touch Timberland without a great deal of barking or growling. Kellena loved her just the same.

“That wolf makes me feel safe.” she told Angus.

“Lady Dartmoore attacked Timberland and my man Kinkaid.”

“Who else would leave marks like that on the neck?” Kellena asked.

She and Suzette had shared what really happened in London with Angus. Ever since Angus rarely let Kellena out of his sight.

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The Inspiration Behind the Books 

Ian’s inspiration for Dark Maiden comes from a Native American legend.

Among the Wabanaki,this blight occurs when an evil sorcerer refuses to stay dead.

Descendants of the Wabanaki still survive in Maine, which was one of the reasons

why I set the story in the locale of Nollesemic. I felt the characters were solid enough

to appeal to a large swath of readers without offending anyone. LGBTQ characters fill

in the modern twists that would not have been accepted even a few years ago.

Similarly, my vampire novel Cardinals is a new take on the Stoker legend with a large dose

of actual historical events. Fictional additions and twists on biblical and historical occurrences,

keep the story interesting, the reader engaged. I have always been a fan of the 70’s vampire films

and wrote Cardinals with that in mind. I can totally see Ingrid Pitt as Asherah. I have taken a bit of

guff over casting a scandalous shadow over the catholic church, but they have given me plenty of ammunition. The faith fills in a good part of the story and fanaticism at both ends of the spectrum also gave me much to work with.

I love casting women in strong roles and minimizing the male influence. Sadly, reality has not caught up with that idea. Amy Radigan, Lilly Pham, Kellena Donnachaid, Cassie Wells, all epitomize women I have known and respect.

After being medically retired from the military in 2010, writing became a new identity for me. I take my time writing. The Long Game, for instance, took 3 years to write. Pulling from current events as I went along. Relations with China are now tenser than ever and the conflict in the south China sea is actually occurring almost following the theme of my story. I consider my readers intelligent enough to follow the multiple plot lines. I tend to keep the thrillers within the realm of possibility. Sometimes it might be a reach but nothing I write is impossible. Headlines are a big help. The saying is “You couldn’t write this stuff”. Well actually I can!

The political thriller is cathardic to write. Solaris is coming out in December, complicated story lines will keep the readers guessing.  Horror is a fun genre for me and I have two ideas on paper that need filled out. I have dabbled with Science Fiction and Fantasy.

Cooper’s Ridge  was another labor of love and quite fun to write. I love space travel, aliens and first contact.  Throw in some dystopian end of the world themes with a huge dose of multiple conspiracies and walah you have a novel. I am a huge Star Trek fan. I love Roddenberry’s approach to everyday issues with technological spins. Solving the barriers to space travel with reverse engineering seemed obvious enough to me. The genius teenager as the underdog with a cadre of friends to help fight the faceless government what can go wrong.

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Ian Conner is retired and spent most of his adult life as a
Marine and Army Infantry Sergeant. A hundred percent disabled veteran after
multiple head and other injuries, he is part of a growing number of vets
classified as “neuro-diverse”, an MST survivor and have several issues such
regarding comprehension, concentration, and vision issues that he has OVERCOME
to write several novels. After witnessing a lifetime of destruction, the
thought of creating something tangible and lasting holds great appeal.

He finds writing a cathartic way to redefine himself both in
his eyes and in the eyes of others. Writing for fun, Ian has completed seven
novels with an eighth near done with two more ideas in the scribble/chapter
phase. He has written across four genres Fantasy, Thriller, Science Fiction and
Horror.

He uses ProWritingAid, Beta Readers and professional editors
keep the product readable, he has recently began querying in search of a
professional agent and publisher.

Now living near San Diego California with his wife Bonnie, a
cellist, and their two dogs, Cookie and Isabella. Conner spends his days
fostering kittens, gardening, crafting beautiful stained glass and creating
worlds on the page.

Website
* LinkedIn
* Bookbub
* Amazon
* Goodreads

 

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

$20 Starbucks Gift Card – 1 winner,

Print Copy of Cardinals – 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.

A Curse Of Thorns And Slumber By Marie-Helene LeBeault ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: January 16, 2025 in Excerpt, giveaways, Romance
Tags: , ,
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One kiss could awaken a kingdom… or doom it to eternal
darkness.

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A Curse of Thorns and Slumber: 

A Sleeping Beauty Retelling

Legends Reborn Book 2

by Marie-Hélène Lebeault

Genre: Clean Romantasy Fairytale Retelling

A cursed prince. A dangerous dream world. A girl who
holds the key to their salvation.

One kiss could awaken a kingdom… or doom it to eternal
darkness.

When a reluctant thief with the power to control thorns is
forced to break an ancient curse, she must risk entering the dangerous
Dreamplane to save a cursed prince—but some magic comes with a price too deadly
to pay.

In the kingdom of Solstraea, where the skies are gray and
thorns rule the land, a centuries-old curse has imprisoned Prince Kael in an
eternal sleep. Only one person can break the spell—Liora Thornhand, a thief
with a rare, dangerous gift she never wanted.

Captured and offered a deal she cannot refuse, Liora must
venture into the deadly Dreamplane to find Kael’s heart, hidden deep within a
magical rose. But as she battles nightmare creatures and faces her own dark
past, she learns that waking the prince might cost her more than just her
freedom—it might cost her life.

In a world filled with twisted thorns, cursed roses, and
dangerous shadows, Liora will have to decide: will she risk everything to save
a kingdom she doesn’t belong to, or will she let it fall into eternal darkness?

Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Brigid
Kemmerer, “A Curse of Thorns and Slumber” is a spellbinding mix
of dark fantasy, romance, and a daring quest through a world where magic is as
treacherous as it is beautiful.

A Curse of Thorns and Slumber is the second book in
the Legends Reborn series. It is a no-spice fantasy romance
adventure. Books can be read in any order.


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Liora wound her way through the maze, her eyes darting warily over the roses as she passed. The thorns seemed to move, ever so slightly, as if they were alive, reaching toward her. She kept her distance, but the path ahead offered no clear direction, and she had no idea how long she had been walking.

Time, like everything else here, felt strange.

After what felt like hours, the thorny walls finally opened up into a wide clearing. At the center stood a towering rose bush, larger than any Liora had seen. Its twisted branches arched high into the sky, and nestled deep within the tangle of vines was a single glowing rose.

Her heart skipped a beat. That must be it.

But before she could take a step forward, something stirred at the base of the rose bush.

A figure, half-hidden in the shadows, stood slowly. He was tall, with dark hair falling just below his chin, dressed in clothes that looked like they belonged to another time—worn, faded, but finely made. His eyes, however, were the most striking—icy blue, with a depth that made Liora’s breath catch for a moment.

She recognized him immediately. Prince Kael.

But there was something wrong. He looked… distant. His eyes were sharp, but they seemed to look through her, not at her.

“You,” he said, his voice low and cold. “Who are you?”

Liora froze. She had been prepared for hostility, but something about the way he looked at her unsettled her. She straightened, forcing a smirk. “A thief, apparently. The mages sent me to break your curse.”

Kael’s expression hardened. He stepped forward, his gaze narrowing. “Another one,” he muttered, half to himself. “How many more are they going to send before they realize it’s useless?”

Liora crossed her arms. “So, I’m not the first. Good to know.”

Kael didn’t answer. He looked her over, his eyes flicking to the pouch at her side where she still kept the stolen jewels—though they felt utterly useless here. “Why should I believe you?”

“I don’t care if you do,” Liora shot back, her patience already thinning. “I’m not here for you, anyway. I’m here for the rose.”

At this, Kael’s eyes darkened, a flicker of something unreadable passing over his face. “The rose,” he repeated, his voice softer now, almost bitter. “Of course.”

Liora took a step toward the rose bush, but Kael moved suddenly, blocking her path. His eyes were sharper now, more focused. “You think it’s that simple?” he asked, his voice low. “That you can just come here and take it?”

She frowned, her pulse quickening. “Isn’t that the idea?”

Kael’s lips curled into a humorless smile. “It’s never that simple.”

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A Curse of Snow and Ash: 

A Snow White Retelling

Legends Reborn Book 1

She holds the power of fire and ice—now, she must decide
which one will rule.

Valira, the forgotten princess of the Ash Court, has lived
her life hidden from both her past and her dangerous magic. When she is thrust
into a world of ice and fire, hunted by two rival courts, she must unlock her
powers to stop a war—and perhaps find herself along the way.

In a world where fire and ice have been at war for
centuries, Valira, an exiled princess with no memory of her past, is hunted for
the power she doesn’t understand. Born from a forbidden union between the
Courts of Snow and Ash, Valira wields both fire and ice, a magic that could
save or destroy the realm.

When a cold-hearted assassin from the Snow Court, Prince
Caelan, is sent to kill her, their fates become entwined. As they race against
time to uncover the truth about her origins and the curse that threatens the
kingdoms, Valira must learn to control her volatile powers before the war
consumes them both.

Enemies lurk in every shadow, and trust is as fragile as
ice. But amid the chaos, a dangerous bond forms between Valira and Caelan—one
that could melt the coldest hearts or spark a fire that consumes them both.

Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Brigid Kemmerer, A
Curse of Snow and Ash is a breathtaking blend of elemental magic, fierce
romance, and high-stakes fantasy.

A Curse of Snow of Ash is the first book in the Legends Reborn series. It is a
no-spice fantasy romance adventure.

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Valira’s eyes snapped open, stinging with the frigid air. She could feel the sharp bite of the cold against her skin, but she didn’t flinch. The snow beneath her had already started to melt from the heat of her body, leaving a damp spot on her clothes. Glimpses of a steel-colored sky peeked through heavy clouds, casting a dreary light on the snowy landscape. With a shiver, she sat up and brushed off frost from her hair, revealing strands as white as the ground beneath her. Something was off about this morning, and Valira couldn’t shake the feeling of unease that settled in her gut.

 

Sinking deeper into the snow, Valira struggled to move her numbed fingers. She couldn’t feel the cold, but she knew it was there, biting at her skin. Despite the frozen world around her, a simmering heat pulsed in her chest. It was the only thing keeping her going.

 

As she stood up and took in her surroundings, she saw the trees were stripped bare of leaves, their branches coated in a layer of ice. The air smelled of snow, crisp and clean, like freshly washed laundry. How had she ended up here? She couldn’t remember anything before a sharp pain and the feeling of falling.

 

But as she walked forward, she noticed something strange: her feet left no footprints in the snow. She blinked and tried to clear the fog in her mind. With each step, her heartbeat remained steady, almost unnaturally so. The silence of the forest seemed to stretch on forever.

 

Until a sudden sound shattered it – a distant howl that sent shivers down Valira’s spine.

 

A small crack echoed through the stillness of the forest, causing Valira to freeze in her tracks. She immediately became alert, her senses sharpening as she scanned the area for any signs of danger. And then, she saw him – a figure cloaked in dark fur, standing at the edge of the clearing with an air of silent menace.

 

His eyes were a piercing icy blue, cold and calculating as they locked onto hers. As he stepped forward, his hand rested on the hilt of a long, silver blade. Valira’s heart raced, fear gripping at her chest. She didn’t know who this stranger was or what he wanted, but she knew he was not here to help her.

 

With trepidation, Valira raised her hand and felt a warmth spreading through her chest, traveling down her arm and into her fingers. The snow at her feet melted in a perfect circle, steam rising from the ground. She was both amazed and terrified by this unfamiliar power coursing through her veins.

The man hesitated for a moment, his grip on his sword loosening as he looked down at the melting snow with surprise. He spoke in a low, measured voice. “You shouldn’t be here.”

 

Valira’s heart pounded in her ears as she responded defiantly, “Neither should you.”

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Awakening from the Shadows: Healing Through A Curse of Thorns and Slumber

By Marie-Hélène Lebeault

When I began writing A Curse of Thorns and Slumber, I didn’t realize how much of myself I’d find in Liora Thornhand. On the surface, she’s a thief—clever, resourceful, and unafraid to take risks. But beneath her sharp edges, she’s someone who feels trapped by the weight of her past and the curse that defines her.

What I didn’t realize at the time was how much Liora’s journey mirrored my own.

Living in Functional Freeze

Before writing this book, I was in a place I now know as functional freeze. Life felt overwhelming—new challenges, old traumas, and the constant pressure of being my family’s sole support. I didn’t feel like I could stop, even when I was burnt out. So I did what many of us do: I kept going. I handled everything that needed to be done, but inside, I felt stuck.

Writing Liora made me confront that feeling. She’s spent years surviving but not living, using her wit and defiance to mask the fear and pain she’s never been able to fully process. Her journey isn’t just about breaking a magical curse—it’s about breaking free from the fear that keeps her running.

The Thorns Around Us

In the story, Kael’s curse binds him to the Shadowthorn, a monstrous force that transforms him every night. Liora’s curse is more subtle, but just as cruel: the mark that brands her as dangerous and keeps her apart from the world.

For me, the thorns represented everything that held me back: burnout, fear of failure, the need to keep going no matter the cost. Writing this story helped me see that the thorns around us aren’t always visible, but they’re no less real. They trap us, suffocate us, and keep us from moving forward.

But Liora’s story reminded me that thorns can be cut away. That we can face them, one by one, and find a way through.

The Power of Connection

One of the most healing parts of writing this book was exploring Liora and Kael’s relationship. At first, they’re like two broken pieces that don’t fit—but as they learn to trust each other, they begin to heal.

Kael doesn’t save Liora, and Liora doesn’t save Kael. They stand beside each other, showing that even when we feel trapped by our circumstances, we don’t have to face them alone.

For me, that was a powerful reminder: that it’s okay to lean on others, to let someone see the cracks in your armor. Sometimes, the people we let in are the ones who help us find our way out.

For Anyone Who Feels Stuck

If you’ve ever felt like you’re just surviving—caught in the grind of responsibility, fear, or exhaustion—I hope Liora and Kael’s story speaks to you.

Healing doesn’t happen overnight. It’s messy and painful and full of doubt. But even when it feels impossible, there’s always a way forward.

This story reminded me that no matter how thick the thorns may seem, they don’t have to define us. We can break free. We can find light.

And we can wake up.

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Marie-Hélène is a Canadian author. She writes young adult
quest and adventure stories rooted in fantasy, magic, and time travel. With
important coming-of-age lessons at the core of her writing, children and young
adults alike will revel in the fantastical journeys of her characters. When not
immersed in magic and mystery, you’ll find Marie-Hélène hiking, cycling, or
lying on the beach with a good book.

Website * Facebook * X * Instagram *
Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

 

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The Sun’s Shadow By Sejal Badani ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: January 15, 2025 in Contemporary Literature, giveaways
Tags: , ,
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THE SUN’S SHADOW by Sejal Badani
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+), 331 pages
Genre:  Literary
Publisher:  Lake Union
Release date:   January 28, 2025
Content Rating:  PG: Has 2 sex scenes with subtle descriptions. No bad language.

 

Book Description:

“A captivating story… richly woven narrative with vivid characters. A perfect story.”

From the bestselling author of The Storyteller’s Secret comes an unflinching exploration of betrayal, forgiveness, and the healing power of a second chance.

Celine’s life is spiraling out of control. She’s in danger of losing the beloved equestrian farm that was her childhood home. Her distant husband, Eric, is devoting a suspicious amount of time to a stunning new colleague. Then her young son, Brian, receives a devastating cancer diagnosis. How much worse can things get?

Felicity has uprooted her career and her teenage son, Justin, to get closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets―that Eric’s frequent “business trips” have been spent playing family with them. Felicity is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine at a delicate time.

​But when Brian’s prognosis worsens, and a transplant from Justin becomes his best chance at survival, Felicity must make a wrenching decision about her son’s well-being―and Celine must accept that the “other woman” is her only hope. In another life Celine and Felicity might have been friends. Can they put aside the pain between them to do what’s best for their families―and their own futures?

 
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GUEST POST
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I Didn’t Know Being a Bestselling-Selling Author Meant

I had no idea that becoming a bestselling author would mean enduring hundreds of rejections before even scratching the surface of success. One of the most common questions I’m asked is what it felt like to have overnight success. The truth? I wouldn’t know.

Writing has been my dream for as long as I can remember. As a child, I devoured every book I could get my hands on and dreamed of one day seeing my name on a cover. At ten years old, I wrote my first novel—a story I cherished like a prized jewel. It was a perfect reflection of all my creativity and ambition. Looking back, though, I’m sure any editor would have had plenty to say about it.

As I grew older, my father had a different vision for my future. He often told me I could be anything I wanted—so long as it was either a doctor or a lawyer. So, I put my dream aside and followed the traditional path. I graduated from law school and began working as an attorney. But the pull of writing never left me. Eventually, I decided to take a leap of faith and return to my first love.

I poured my heart into writing—screenplays, short stories, drafts of novels—and submitted my work to agents with unshakable optimism. I was certain they would see the brilliance I felt in my own words. But instead of the validation I craved, I received rejection after rejection. Some of my proudest pieces didn’t even make it past the first gatekeepers. Each “no” chipped away at my confidence, leaving me questioning my talent and whether this career was meant for me.

Still, I refused to let doubt win. Every rejection letter became an opportunity: I gave them to my five-year-old daughter, who gleefully cut them up with her little scissors. It became a strange sort of ritual—turning discouragement into something lighter. And I kept going. I wrote more, refined my craft, and pitched my work to agents and publishers I had no business reaching out to. I was determined to see my dream through.

After years of perseverance, the tide finally turned. My debut novel, Trail of Broken Wings, was published—and the rest, as they say, is history.

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Meet Author Sejal Badani:

​Sejal Badani is the Amazon Charts, USA Today, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Storyteller’s Secret and Trail of Broken Wings. She is also a Goodreads Best Fiction award and ABC/Disney Writing Fellowship finalist whose work has been published in over fifteen languages.

Connect with the author: Website  ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ​~ Pinterest
Instagram ~ Goodreads

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THE SUN’S SHADOW by Sejal Badani Book Tour Giveaway

 

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What Bear Said by Jack Wiens ~ Review And Giveaway

Posted: December 5, 2024 in Children's books, giveaways, Guest Post, reviews
Tags: , , ,
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Book Details:

​  What Bear Said about Life, Love, and Other Stuff 

by Jack Wiens

Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  98 pages
Genre: Juvenile fiction/picture book/values & virtues
Publisher: Torchflame Books
Release date:  October 15, 2024
Content Rating: G. Specifically for children.

Book Description:

The boy has a lot of questions—hard ones about love, honesty, grief and loss, prejudice, forgiveness, why we are here, and more.

Bear’s wise answers are always offered with compassion and enthusiasm. The friendship between these two is deep, tender, and sometimes fun. Bear’s clear, common-sense philosophy of life is a welcome contrast to the complex world our children face today.

On the beautifully illustrated pages, you will also meet Jay, Raccoon, Badger, Elder Moose, and others who add to the fun and adventure.

Walk with Boy and Bear for a while in the woods and see what you might learn about life, love and other stuff.

​This uplifting book will surely become a treasured collection of simple wisdom, inspiring rich, meaningful conversations between adults and children alike.
Buy the Book:
Amazon 
B&N ~ Bookshop.org
​add to Goodreads
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MY REVIEW

Bear was such a gentle friend to Boy and shared with him answers to some hard questions. Some of Boy’s worries might not come to mind as adults. What seems minor to us could be huge to a child. Me, I found much of Bear’s advice helpful even as a grownup. My son asked questions I struggled to answer and I would have loved to have Bear as my sounding board.

I enjoyed this book from cover to back flap. It was filled with wisdom and delightful illustrations. I’d recommend you keep it within reach when you and child feel like reading together.

5 STARS

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GUEST POST
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Excerpt from the book: Meaning and Purpose

“Bear, what is this all about? Why are we here? What am I supposed to do? I really just want to play a lot and have fun!

What Bear Said

Well, yes, we ARE here to play. Look at our beautiful playground! AND, we have to eat, and stay warm (pick berries and find a den), and that takes some work. The tricky part is keeping it all balanced.

What is this really all about? It is The Great Mystery. Many ideas have been shared, but no one really knows for sure. Perhaps we are close to the answer when we are feeling the happiest, when we have found our “place in the woods,” have loved ones who love and appreciate us, and when we have found our unique gifts—those things we are good at and have passion for—and are offering them to the world.”

My answer to the question, “What is this life all about?” has gotten simpler over the years.  I used to have a lot of dogma to share from my early days of religious and theological study.  Then I moved into much more psychological explanation for things and then more spiritual, generic language. As Bear’s answer reflects, I have drawn from all those earlier orientations and distilled it down. As corny as it sounds, I really do believe love is the answer to most questions. I am a relational person. How I am with people in my life is the most important thing. Am I kind, loving, honest? Can people count on me? Do they know I care? Do I like myself? I know when I am using my abilities, like illustrating or communicating, or even playing tennis, I am happier and feel fulfilled. When I invite a friend to meet me for breakfast or a cup of coffee, I feel richer, happier. When I stop what I’m doing because a blue jay is pecking on my kitchen window and go out and feed him or her some peanuts, I feel happier.  Anytime I enter the natural world and make conscious contact with it, I feel calmer, peaceful and even more hopeful.

Is there some lofty mission I have in this world? I used to think I did. I literally felt I should somehow save the world. These days I believe if a give a friend a ride to their doctor’s appointment or tell someone I appreciate their good work, I have, in some degree, fulfilled my mission for today as a human being.

I think it is important these days to help children have very real, direct experiences of honest, loving, in-depth communication with others—their peers or adults—that happens in person, not on a screen. They need to be really seen and heard by a real person they see and hear. We all need that! This is the main way they will learn what their strengths and gifts are which they can offer the world.

Finally, I think it is good for kids to hear that adults don’t have it “all figured out.” When Bear says, “It is the Great Mystery,” I hope that can light a little fire of curiosity in a young reader. It is important to continue at all ages to find “wonder” in living, to be amazed at the unknowns and unexplainable parts of our world and Universe. It’s really okay to seek answers and to recognize nobody has them all figured out.

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Meet Author Jack Wiens:

Jack Wiens has illustrated over 40 children’s books and designed many book covers, a family magazine, curriculum materials and greeting cards. He has also exhibited his fine art in galleries and art shows in Colorado, Missouri and Oregon.

Jack earned a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and worked as a counselor for 34 years in private practice as well as in a hospital inpatient addictions program and mental health centers. He led many workshops on communication, relationships and self-care during his career as psychotherapist.

​He lives in Ashland, Oregon, where he enjoys the natural beauty of nearby mountains, lakes and rivers, the creative energy of the community and good friendships. Besides hiking, biking and tennis, a favorite activity is exploring the Oregon coast and whale watching in Depoe Bay.

connect with the author: website 

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WHAT BEAR SAID ABOUT LIFE LOVE AND OTHER STUFF Book Tour Giveaway

 

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Candy Crone by A. L. Hawke ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: November 30, 2024 in Excerpt, Fantasy, giveaways, Holidays
Tags: , , ,
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Candy Crone is a Christmas Short Story standalone in
the bestselling Hawthorne University Witch Series.

Candy Crone

The Hawthorne University Witch Series Book 8

By A.L. Hawke

Genre: Paranormal Holiday Fantasy

Candy Crone is a Christmas Short Story standalone following Shadow
Cast in the Hawthorne University Witch Series.
While I’m enjoying a spicy caramel apple surprise at our local ice cream
parlor, an old lady in rags rambles nonsense about candy canes to children
waiting for Santa. That distracts me from prepping my young friend Cat for her
college interview at Hawthorne University.
Christmas turns into creepy Halloween when all the local children, including
Cat, disappear in the woods. Bryce and I search our forest but become
spellbound. All this voracious casting heralds the arrival of a new witch in
town. The Candy Crone.
As the Hawthorne Witch, I hold great power, but with my unborn baby kicking,
the witch exploits my sins and vices through gluttony. Am I nothing more than
my appetites and power as the Hawthorne Witch? Or can I accomplish something
greater? If I can’t sort my stuff out, Cat, my unborn baby, Chandra, and all
these innocent kids living in Hawthorne are toast.

 

Cadence Hawthorne returns in this Christmas novella taking place after
Shadow Cast, book 6, in The Hawthorne University Witch Series. Candy Crone
is a complete self-contained novella not ending in cliffhangers. Some spoilers
cannot be avoided, but the story is a STANDALONE book that can be enjoyed
without reading the preceding novels.

 

 

Content Warning: Candy Crone contains profanity, adult situations and, of
course, witchcraft.

 

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“Cadence! Cadence!”

Bryce and I spin around in the direction of the shouting. That was Cat’s voice! I’m forced to squint as the sun’s rays open again through a gap in the trees. But then Cat stops crying for help.

Light shines over our dirt path, winding through the trees, and I see more breadcrumbs strewn along the ground. I don’t follow the path. Instead, I walk off the trail and start gathering large fallen branches in the bushes. I pile the thickest ones and start forming a five-pointed star.

“What are you doing, Katie?” Bryce asks.

“I don’t know. I remember doing this in my dream. All this happened before, in the dream…or…I foresaw it happening. You and I first spotted breadcrumbs. So I built this sigil as a signal and as a refuge during the nightmare. I think the headmaster’s right, this witch is very powerful. She, or whoever’s possessing her, is attacking us with powerful magic. I feel like I have to build this circle for protection.”

And I drag another stick along the ice, forming a circle surrounding my pentagram. Then I gesture at my work.

Bryce nods, but then he freaks me out when he covers his eyes, squinting over my left shoulder. Turning in the direction of his gaze, I see a bright golden glow. The light is heralding a small cottage among the trees. The breadcrumb trail ends at a walkway surrounding the cottage, which has two windows with shutters and a chimney. It’s as if the cottage has always been there, hidden in the woods. Two large red poles with white stripes by the entrance appear to be the size of people. They look like huge peppermint candy canes. And beside the peppermint sticks, in the snow, are two gingerbread-like statues about half my height. The top of one of the peppermint sticks forms the outline of a girl’s face. But her expression is frozen, motionless, like a statue. An icy pathway of shiny red and green candy tiles leads to the front door. The door and the shutters are composed of a brown cake-like substance. Gingerbread? White patches on the walls form a thick plaster. On the plaster brush marks stick out in sections, reminding me of frosting. Soft red and green gems embedded in the white plaster, covered in crystalized sugar kernels, reflect the golden sunlight. Gumdrops or sugar plums. Chocolatey-brown drippings fall from the rooftops, draining into chocolate pools. And the roof is made of a cinnamon red candy–like surface.

We walk slowly along the candy path. Bryce runs a finger along the white plaster beside the door. It’s not solid, and it’s not plaster, it’s like a thick white goo.

“Frosting?” Bryce asks me with a nervous chuckle.

I nod and run my finger along the wall too. I bring the goo to my nose. It smells so sweet and delicious.

“This has to stop,” snaps Bryce. “This sick witch is controlling us like in a fairy tale. And . . . I feel drowsy, as if I’m dreaming, Kate. I think she’s putting a spell on us.”

How can she not be? We’re standing in front of a gingerbread house.

I nab a large crystalized green gumdrop the size of my palm, stuck to the white frosting, and bite into it. It tastes so good! It’s soft, full of granules of sugar, with a wonderful tangy sweet lime. And the best part is the consistency. The gob sticks in my mouth like chewing gum.

“Cadence, what are you doing!”

He tries to snatch it from my fingers, but I pull it away. I don’t know why I’m eating it, but I am. It’s like I’m compelled to eat it. But it tastes sooo good. I don’t know how Bryce is stopping himself. I’m so hungry.

“It tastes really good, Bryce,” I say with my mouth full. “Wow. You should try some.” Then I dip it in some of the wall plaster and offer him some. “Try it, babe. Just take a bite.”

“Growly, growler. Growly, growler.”

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Do you write one book at a time or do you have several going at a time? 

If I’m really into a particular project, it becomes all encompassing. I prefer one book at a time but it doesn’t always work out that way. And lately, I also work on converting books to audio at the same time.

 

What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision?

I always had ideas in my head about writing. I think I always wanted to be a storyteller my whole life.

 

Advice you would give new authors? 

Take a look at other books in your interested genre. Learn from other writers by looking at what’s been written before. And do it for the fun of writing, not for the dollar. At an average cost of $3.99 per ebook, just doing the math, this isn’t a job making writers rich. You really have to love it for the craft.

 

Describe your writing style. 

I think my books are very dialog-heavy. It’s funny because I’ve heard the opposite. Some say they were impressed with my descriptive writing, but I really feel like most of the time I’m using description as a scaffold for conversation. I’m letting the characters run the show. So, reality comes in the form of dialog. It’s what breathes life into my characters.

 

What makes a good story? 

Something engrossing.

 

What are you currently reading? 

I’m reading It Ends with Us. Heard of it? ☺ I’m giving that book a whirl.

 

What is your writing process? For instance do you do an outline first? Do you do the chapters first? 

No outlines. My characters shape what happens.

 

Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want? 

That’s a good question. It’s a mix. If I feel like something is successful, like my witch series has been, then I want to spend my time working with my success. That’s why I’ve written so many books in the series. But I write some books outside of my typical genre. And I like to take chances. It’s part of being an “artist” not a marketer. Because indie writers tend to be on different sides of that spectrum.

 

How long on average does it take you to write a book? 

I can write about four pages an hour. I’m very prolific and can bust out a novel in a couple of weeks. The editing process can take longer, but, in many ways editing is more gratifying. There’s no blank pages staring at you. Or you’re not looking at page count and thinking “man, I’ve only got another hundred pages to go.”

 

Do you believe in writer’s block? 

Absolutely. I suffer from it all the time. But, for me, it’s not a blank page. I can write pages upon pages, but it’s a sense that I’m struggling to get work out. If the story comes easy, it’s so much more of a pleasure and I know it’s going to be good.

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A.L. Hawke is the author of the bestselling Hawthorne
University Witch series. The author lives in Southern California torching the
midnight candle over lovers against a backdrop of machines, nymphs, magic,
spice and mayhem. A.L. Hawke writes fantasy and romance spanning four thousand
years, from pre-civilization to contemporary and beyond.

Website * X * Bookbub * Amazon
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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

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Tune In Tomorrow by Randee Dawn ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: November 28, 2024 in Excerpt, Fantasy, giveaways, Humor
Tags: , , ,
5

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Their fantasy is her reality.

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Tune in Tomorrow

by Randee Dawn

Genre: Humorous Pop-Culture Fantasy

A funny, thrilling and mysterious adventure into the
world of alternate reality television… Perfect for fans of Jasper Fforde and
Christopher Moore.

 

She’s just a small town girl, with big mythic dreams.

Starr Weatherby came to New York to become… well, a star.
But after ten years and no luck, she’s offered a big role – on a show no one
has ever heard of. And there’s a reason for that. It’s a ‘reality’ show beyond
the Veil, human drama, performed for the entertainment of the Fae.

But as Starr shifts from astounded newcomer to rising fan
favorite, she learns about the show’s dark underbelly – and mysterious
disappearance of her predecessor. She’ll do whatever it takes to keep her dream
job – though she might just bring down the show in the process.

Raves for the book:

“I thought I’d seen everything in the galaxy of reality
TV, until Randee’s book!” – Andy Cohen, Host / Executive Producer, Watch
What Happens Live with Andy Cohen and New York Times bestselling author

“Randee Dawn has single-handedly created a glittering
new genre: the Backstage Comedy Fantasy Romance — and I want more!” –
Ellen Kushner, World Fantasy Award-winning author of Thomas the Rhymer and
Swordspoint

“Randee Dawn’s Tune in Tomorrow is a wild ride through
the world of reality TV, Faerie style. It’s a satire and a romance (of a sort)
and a fairytale and a mystery, full of characters I loved (and loved to hate)
and situations that had me biting my nails. It’s also hilariously funny.”
– World Fantasy Award nominee Delia Sherman, author of The Porcelain Dove and
The Evil Wizard Smallbone

“Tune in Tomorrow is a joyride. It takes you on a
journey into the make believe world of a soap opera. It dives in and out of
what could possibly be fantasy or in fact is reality. As with the sands of
time, as you Search for Tomorrow, or you are feeling Young and Restless, get
lost in the adventures of Starr and be taken over by all that is Tune in
Tomorrow.” – Emmy-nominated actor Gregory Zarian

“Dawn’s Tune in Tomorrow is a ton of fun with a lot of
heart, charming characters, and devilish foes. And it’s funny as hell.” –
Zin E. Rocklyn, author of Flowers for the Sea

“Few authors can open the door to another world as
easily as you might turn on the TV, but Randee Dawn has the key and the remote
control firmly in her hand. Flip through the fae and the grindylows, let her be
your TV guide and psychopomp. You will find yourself howling at the gate for a
rerun.” – Meg Elison, author of Number One Fan

“This book is a BOUNCY CASTLE! This book is like a
candy store and a screwball comedy had a fling in fairyland and the result was
a mythic soap opera! There was no predicting it, there was only riding this
dragon all the way to its rollicking rollercoaster conclusion. How dear and
joyous it is, how satisfying, and how worthy of praise!” – World Fantasy
Award-winning author of Saint Death’s Daughter C.S.E. Cooney

“Dawn balances over-the-top drama and comedy with
genuine intrigue to create a fun story with plenty of heart. Fans of Douglas
Adams and Terry Pratchett will want to snatch this up.” – Publishers
Weekly

“Tune in Tomorrow is a hilariously well-constructed
story with surprising complexity, and one that uses its reality TV premise not
as a destination, but as a jumping off point to create something uniquely
interesting that stays entertaining the entire way through.” – Lightspeed
Magazine

“Dawn’s witty take on society’s fascination with
peering at life through a camera lens spotlights the sometimes-blurred
intersection between fantasy and reality, all captured on video. Her playful
narrative propels readers into the realm of alternate possibilities while
questioning what is real and what is make-believe, and if we can even tell the
difference.” – BookTrib

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On the surface, Phil made sense as a security guard. He was a proper, enormous dragon, theoretically full of fire in the belly and leftover meat in the teeth.

But so far as Starr had seen, Phil was a receptionist. For one thing, his belly fire was mostly a small, flickering flame. “My therapist says I got lack of confidence,” he’d muttered to Starr some weeks back in his tractor trailer-sized voice. “I got issues.”

One of which was that flame—which meant he’d be more likely to smoke things than scorch them—and the fact that he’d never consumed a human. “Yet,” he always made sure to add, third eyelid nictitating over one lightning-bolt pupil. It was meant to be a threatening gesture, but mostly it made him seem like he was winking at Starr.

His “issues” left him with a smaller skill set and fewer job prospects than most dragons of his size, which meant he put extra effort into guarding the contents of his cave, a jagged rocky opening that burst from the wall behind the reception desk like an explosion and emitted damp breezes.

Yet Starr hadn’t expected pushback when she asked if she could go through the archived scripts he held back there. Much had happened in the Central Park/Centaur Park Nexus, but the action item that had stuck with her was Nico’s advice to read Joseph’s old scripts. Which she knew were kept in archives in the cave.

For weeks, Phil had refused her entry. “It’s a mess back there,” he said. “I don’t get visitors.”

He hadn’t budged when she promised to leave any gold or jewelry alone, either; the mere mention of precious valuables had made the spikes on his back rise up, piercing his grey shirt. Sparks had shot from a corner of his mouth.

“Mortals steal from me,” Phil slurped sriracha from his mug. “If my possessions are under threat, I can’t help myself. It’s in the blood. Even if I let you in, I’d feel you in there rooting around. And you’d end up mangled or maimed or smoked and I’d end up fired and my therapist would have to see me four times a week, instead of three.”

Starr shivered. It was like talking to Hannibal Lecter about his favorite recipes.

Phil ran his long tongue around the inside of his cup, lapping up the final drops of the hot sauce. “Sigh. There’s never enough.”

A small explosion lit Star up. That was it. Sriracha was going to save the day.

 

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Who designed your book covers? 

Alas, I’ve never met the designers. The covers for Tune – both the original and the reissue one – were done through my publisher Solaris. I was presented with a nearly-complete idea for the first version, and asked for some tweaking of color and font. It wasn’t what I had imagined in my head, but the truth was I hadn’t imagined much! I couldn’t figure out a good hook for a cover. In the end, I loved it – people commented on the cover all the time and I’d always say back that it was “loud and garish, which is perfect for the novel.” When they said they were going to do a cover redesign for the reissue, they asked for more direct input: What would be the main focus image, what about colors, did I have ideas. I told them – retro fluorescent bright colors, an old-fashioned TV, the “color bars” looking wonky on the screen, and some pixie dust swirling around. The addition of Phil came a bit later, and I described him. They sent a PowerPoint of slides of possible images, and I picked the ones I liked best. And it came together beautifully. I’m so happy Phil the security dragon, guarding both mangoes and scripts, is now my mascot for presenting the book!

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Randee Dawn is an author, journalist, and lucky denizen of
Brooklyn. Her first novel, the humorous pop-culture fantasy Tune in Tomorrow,
published in August 2022 (Solaris/Rebellion).

Randee’s short fiction has appeared in publications and
podcasts including 3AM Magazine (“The View of My Brother’s Profile in the
Rear-View Mirror,” 2001; “Warm, In Your Coat,” 2004) and
Well-Told Tales (“Home for the Holidays,” 2015; “Can’t Keep a
Dead Man Down,” 2017).

Dawn’s stories have appeared in anthologies including Where
We May Wag (“The Last Dog,” Writing Piazza Press, 2018), Children of
a Different Sky (“Can’t Find My Way Home,” Kos Books, 2018), Magic
for Beginners (“Queen Zoe and the Spinning Game,” Fantasia Divinity,
2019), Dim Shores Presents (“Rough Beast, Slouching,” 2021), Another
World: Stories of Portal Fantasy (“The Way Is Clear,” SummerStorm
Press, 2021), and Horror for the Throne: One-Sitting Reads (“Cat
Person”).

She has a short collection of dark speculative fiction short
stories, “Home for the Holidays” (2014) and co-authored “The Law
& Order: SVU Unofficial Companion” (BenBella Books, 2009). She
co-edited the speculative fiction anthology of “what if” stories
about The Beatles, “Across the Universe: Tales of Alternative
Beatles” (Fantastic Books, 2019).

When not making stuff up, Randee publishes entertainment
profiles, reviews, and think pieces regularly in outlets including Variety, The
Los Angeles Times, Today.com and Emmy Magazine, and writes trivia for BigBrain.

She can be found at RandeeDawn.com and @RandeeDawn (on
Twitter).

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A Pioneer Christmas Beyond The Oregon Trail by David Fitz-Gerald ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: November 27, 2024 in Excerpt, giveaways, Historical, Holidays, Western
Tags: , , , ,
3
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Can the love that binds this family deliver Christmas
miracles?

Or will the unforgiving wilderness crush their holiday
spirit?

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A Pioneer Christmas Beyond the Oregon Trail

A Ghosts Among the Oregon Trail Holiday Novella

by David Fitz-Gerald

Genre: Historical Holiday Western Adventure

Dorcas and her family endured a harrowing trip along the
Oregon Trail in 1850. Now, they face their first brutal winter in the rugged
wilderness. Can they survive the harsh realities of frontier life?

Devastating setbacks threaten their lives, crush their
hopes, and test their faith in timeless traditions. Their cabin is unfinished.
Wild animals shred their tents, ruin their food supply, and wreck their camp.
As winter closes in, a powerful storm strikes their remote homestead. How much
more can they endure?

Dorcas suggests skipping Christmas to focus on survival, but
her children balk. They don’t want to give up on the cherished holiday. Is
Christmas a luxury they can’t afford?

When her husband, Agapito, fails to return from a critical
supply run, Dorcas ventures into the wilderness with a rifle in search of food
for her children. She must brave the elements as a mountain lion stalks her
through a violent winter storm.

Can the love that binds this family deliver Christmas
miracles? Or will the unforgiving wilderness crush their holiday spirit?

Start reading A Pioneer Christmas Beyond the Oregon
Trail today. Get wrapped up in this gripping western adventure of
love, survival, and the enduring power of hope. Perfect for fans of frontier
fiction and heartwarming holiday tales, this novella will keep you on the edge
of your seat.

Amazon
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

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That scream curdles my blood and makes me shiver in fear. I clutch Agapito tightly against me.

Agapito says, “I think it is an owl. I do not know why owls howl like that. But I think it is because they are owls.”

I say, “We’d better check on the children.” After a mad dash to the river’s edge, I shiver as I climb into my clothes.

Agapito scampers after me. Racing to catch up, he laughs and says, “I lasted longer than you.”

The wilderness is full of undiscovered frightening beasts. Fortunately, the camp is safe, the children are asleep, and whatever attacked the camp while we were away is not a danger now.

It’s hard to believe an owl can make a sound like that. If I believed in such things, I might say it was a banshee.

It has been ten days since something attacked the camp, but we remain vigilant. Whatever it was could return at any time.

Being short of food is a constant worry. We’re trying to get by on less. The boys sometimes complain about the watery soup, but we must stretch what we have.

This morning, instead of chopping wood, Christopher and I are fishing in the Clackamas River. But neither of us are having much luck.

Dahlia Jane sits nearby, making nests. She collects dried grasses, then weaves them together into long strands, and then coils the lengths into bowl-shaped replicas. Considering she’s only four years old, her creations are quite convincing.

The cat plays nearby, never venturing far from the girl. It’s hard to believe the docile kitten is the same animal that we took in almost two months ago. I thought that vicious monster could never be tamed, but somehow the fur ball came around. Dahlia Jane says Christopher tamed it.

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**Don’t miss the rest of the series!**

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Find them on Amazon!

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,

Blogger’s Introduction: Today, I’m stepping into the dreams of Christopher Moon, or as he’s more fondly known, Dunk. He’s a lively nine-year-old boy who’s experienced more adventure on the Oregon frontier than most could imagine. With his almost magical knack for understanding animals and his boundless curiosity, Dunk’s life is full of excitement and discovery. Join me as I chat with him in the warmth of a dream, where stories and secrets are shared.

Blogger: Hi, Dunk! Thanks for meeting with me in this dream. Tell me about your nickname.

Dunk: [As he speaks, he motions with his hands, forming a cup with one, and making a dipping motion with the other.] People make fun of me because I like to dunk food in stuff. Like biscuits in stew, pancakes in porridge, or donuts in syrup. So, they call me Dunk instead of Christopher. I reckon that’s shorter.

Blogger: I’ve heard you like to get away on your own sometimes. Is there someplace special you like to go?

Dunk: [Eyes light up with a mischievous grin] Oh, I got a place, all right. Found an abandoned cabin deep in the woods. A mountain man called Crabapple Nick used to live there. Nobody knows about it but me. I like sneaking back there when I need a bit of quiet or when I just want to pretend I’m a real explorer. It’s like my own secret fort. Just don’t tell anybody, all right? I’d like to keep that a secret.

Blogger: Your secret’s safe with me! I’ve also heard that animals seem to listen to you in a special way. What’s your trick?

Dunk: [Leans in close, voice dropping to a whisper] It ain’t really a trick. It’s just something I can do. Boss, our puppy born right along the trail, listens to me better than anybody else. And then there was Dahlia Jane’s kitten, mean as a snake at first, but now that ball of fluff is all soft and purrs. Even the oxen, they do what I say like I’m the head honcho. Sometimes, I even talk to birds. [Laughs and looks around] Better not mention that either. Don’t want folks thinking I’m daft.

Blogger: That’s incredible, Dunk! It sounds like you’ve got the heart of a true adventurer. Do you ever wish you could be out on the trail more?

Dunk: [His expression shifts to a mix of longing and excitement] Yeah. Boy. Do I ever! I sure was mad when Alvah and the crew left without me. They get to have an adventure every day. I wanted to go so bad, but Ma said no. Said I’m too young, but I ain’t. Someday I’ll be a guide. Or a soldier. Maybe even a trapper. [His lips shift from side to side as if trying to decide which profession might be best for him.]

Blogger: I’m sure you’ll show them all, one day. Speaking of the trail, I heard you broke your arm. Tell me about that.

Dunk: [He looks at his arm and gives a proud smile] Got trampled in a river crossing. It hurt real bad, but I didn’t cry much. Hated the sling though. Ma said I was brave, and I reckon I was. It just made me tougher, I think. If I can go through that, I can do just about anything. I’ll be the best guide or adventurer this side of the Mississippi, you’ll see.

Blogger: I have no doubt about that, Dunk. Now, Christmas on the frontier must be quite different. What’s the best part for you?

Dunk: The best part’s the stories and songs we share. And this year, we had a Christmas cake! I don’t know where it came from, but it was like magic. Hey, do you like to dip your cake in milk? [He laughs heartily] You should give it a try. Tastes even better.

Blogger: I’ll have to try that! One last question before you wake up: if you could tell other kids one thing about life out here, what would it be?

Dunk: I’d tell ‘em that life’s tough sometimes, real tough. But there’s always something worth smiling about. Whether it’s your dog, a warm fire, or dipping cake in milk. And even if folks say you’re too young, don’t listen. You know what you can do.

Blogger: That’s wonderful advice, Dunk. Thank you for sharing your stories and dreams with me. Merry Christmas!

Dunk: Merry Christmas to you, too! And remember, keep the cabin a secret. [He winks as the dream fades away]

Blogger’s Closing Note: Christopher “Dunk” Moon is a boy full of heart and wonder, with dreams as big as the frontier. His stories remind us that even in the hardest times, there’s always room for hope, adventure, and a bit of magic. And, if you enjoy this character as a child in A Pioneer Christmas and the series Ghosts Along the Oregon Trail, you might be surprised to encounter him as an adult in the newly released book, First Drive: A Seph Vermillion Western Adventure.

Blogger’s Closing Note: Andrew’s ambition and depth remind us that even in the hardest times, dreams and determination can light the way. His story is one of hope, resilience, and finding a voice amid the wilds of the frontier.

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David Fitz-Gerald writes westerns and historical fiction. He
is the author of twelve books, including the brand-new series, Ghosts Along the
Oregon Trail set in 1850. Dave is a multiple Laramie Award, first place, best
in category winner; a Blue Ribbon Chanticleerian; a member of Western Writers
of America; and a member of the Historical Novel Society.

Alpine landscapes and flashy horses always catch Dave’s eye
and turn his head. He is also an Adirondack 46-er, which means that he has
hiked to the summit of the range’s highest peaks. As a mountaineer, he’s
happiest at an elevation of over four thousand feet above sea level.

Dave is a lifelong fan of western fiction, landscapes,
movies, and music. It should be no surprise that Dave delights in placing
memorable characters on treacherous trails, mountain tops, and on the backs of
wild horses.

Website * Facebook * X * Instagram
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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

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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.

Sunscreen Shower By J.P. Rieger ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: November 26, 2024 in comedy, Excerpt, giveaways, Guest Post, Mystery
Tags: , , ,
9

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Baltimore Police Detective Kev Dixit is being stalked by a psychopath.

He’s also saving lives and solving crimes.

And he’s late for dinner.

.

Sunscreen Shower

A Detective Kev Dixit Novel 2

by J.P. Rieger

Genre: Crime Mystery, Dark Comedy

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Baltimore Police Detective Kev Dixit is being stalked by a
psychopath. He’s also saving lives and solving crimes. And he’s late for
dinner.

Dixit temporarily heads the Criminal Investigation Division,
a real stress inducer. Aided by humorless partners and eccentric high school
friends, he investigates two vexing cases. Spouses are found shot to death in
their home. Murder-suicide is the obvious call, considering one spouse had just
cleaned out the couple’s joint accounts the day before. But all is not as it
seems when Forensics takes a closer look at the victims’ DNA. Later, Dixit and
his assigned mentee investigate a car bombing. What kind of person would
viciously murder a likeable gym rat?

Oh, and that murder-suicide. It reminded Dixit of an earlier
investigation, back when he was a mere newbie detective. One where he worked
tirelessly to solve a string of increasingly vicious serial attacks on single
women. One where he barely escaped with his life.

What readers are saying:
 



“A smartly plotted murder mystery set in Baltimore and
filled with memorable, local characters. Hugely enjoyable!”

The Wishing Shelf – Five Stars

“The author has crafted a masterful mystery novel with a
story full of unexpected twists and turns. . . . A great detective story with a
clever ending.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Rieger seamlessly weaves together a gritty crime
investigation, with a dark, delirious comedy. . . . A clever, funny and
wonderfully strange crime detective novel.”

Readers’ Choice Book Awards – Five Stars

“As a police procedural, this patiently crafted thriller is
methodical in its investigative storytelling and slow-burn character
development . . . With plenty of twists and dramatic reveals to keep readers
hooked, but still in the dark about the full story, this tangled mystery is
entertaining from the first page.”

Self-Publishing Review

“Rieger ensures that cases are solved through meticulous
police investigations rather than fortuitous breaks, adding a layer of
authenticity to the story. This attention to detail makes the narrative feel
genuine and engaging, particularly for fans of police procedurals. . . . The
book offers a unique blend of intense action and emotional introspection,
making it a worthwhile addition to the genre.”

Literary Titan

Amazon
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December 2000

The man circled the block just once, precisely according to his plan. He quietly pulled in behind the parked car. He knew which house. He had watched them enter as he drove past the first time. He clicked off the radio’s switch. It had done the trick, as usual. He had heard the badge number and gotten to the scene nearly as quickly as they did.

He took a deep breath. He felt his heart beat faster and deeper. His nerves jangled, electrically fueled by adrenaline. He was happy. No, better than just happy. He felt thrilled, excited. He had never given up on his mission. He had tracked down his prey, finally, to the nondescript house in Hampden. Here it would end.

He removed the Glock from the glove box and placed it into the outer right pocket of his polar fleece. He exited his parked car and closed the door slowly, so very gently, with just enough force to click the door shut. He moved his body against the cloudy twilight toward the house, breathing deeply. The gun tapped against his gut as he walked, annoying him. He had to hold his jacket pocket against his body to stop the movement. But that discomfort, like the rest of the incessant annoyances he continually suffered, would soon be forgotten. Knowing that gave him solace.

He smiled as he approached the home. The dilapidated gray siding of the house smiled back, crookedly. He saw his hand trembling ever so slightly as he grasped the doorknob. He steeled himself and turned the doorknob quietly in the latch, careful to not open the door. Unlocked. He heard muffled sounds. A woman sobbing and a man’s voice speaking loudly. He couldn’t make out the words. Then laughter. He wasn’t sure what was going on inside.

He took the Glock from his fleece pocket, grasping it firmly. He raised his boot-swaddled right foot higher, then yet higher, and kicked forward violently. The wood panel splintered in its frame as the door thrust open, slamming sharply against the living room wall. Instantly, he saw the big older cop standing four yards away in front of a fireplace, grimacing and waving at him like a little child, with his four fingers up by his face. A man in a dark hoodie stood directly behind the big guy, shadowing him, pulling at something, pulling and grunting. The cop continued to hold his hand up by his ear, waving, waving, mutely wriggling his four fingers like a child. The gunman fought the instinct to wave back. Then he heard the muffled sound of a woman sobbing to his left, at the bottom of the staircase. She wore a dark hood over her head. Her wrists were bound behind her. She was curled into the fetal position.

A moment later, in his foreground, he saw his prey, the uniformed cop, back turned, standing over the sofa facing the fireplace. He watched his prey turn toward him looking surprised . . . confused. His prey was holding something in his hand, a round thing with a handle. A frying pan?

He spied the badge number of the man with the frying pan. It was him. The cop was now raising the pan high, about to strike at him. He aimed the Glock point-blank and fired two shots into the cop’s chest. The cop’s body fell backward against the sofa. He watched the cop writhing in agony, trying to right himself against the sofa. He saw the frying pan drop from the cop’s hand and heard the dull metal sound as it hit the floor.

The cop was now doubled over the back of the sofa, moaning but still moving, still trying to right himself. The man spent a quiet moment enjoying the cop’s suffering. And then another moment. Then he took two paces forward and placed the muzzle of the gun against the back of the cop’s skull and pulled the trigger.  Blood and tissue spattered in every direction, some slapping quietly against the shooter’s clothing and face.

The man looked around the room one last time, first toward the sobbing woman and then at the waving man and hooded figure. He wasn’t concerned with any of them. He had carried out his mission. He had avenged his father’s death. He had killed Kev Dixit. There was only one thing left to do. His life was as good as over. He had killed a cop. He sure as hell was not going back to prison. He held the nose of the gun up against his right temple and gently squeezed the trigger.

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**Don’t miss the first Detective Kev Dixit Novel – Clonk! **

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Find it on Amazon

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What literary pilgrimages have you gone on?

  1. Paul Rieger © 1924

 

I travelled to London about twenty years ago and decided to track down the present location of Furnival’s Inn. Furnival’s Inn is probably best known for being the abode of Charles Dickens. He lived there for about four years in the 1830’s and apparently wrote his first novel, The Pickwick Papers, as a resident. But that’s not why I decided to track it down. I actually sought out Furnival’s because it was the home of one of my favorite fictional characters, Romney Pringle. Pringle was the literary invention of writers Austin Freeman and John J. Pitcairn who wrote pseudonymously as “Clifford Ashdown.” Freeman went on to become the pioneer of the medical detective story. His Dr. Thorndyke character was both a forensic investigator and barrister.

Romney Pringle, on the other hand, was a bachelor rogue. He leased an abode/office at Furnival’s Inn as a purported literary agent. But such was merely a cover. As mentioned in the first Pringle story The Assyrian Rejuvenator: “According to high authority, the reason of being of the literary agent is to act as a buffer between the ravening publisher and his prey. But … little or no business appeared to be transacted in the chambers. The buffer was at present idle, if it could be said to have ever worked!”

Pringle’s claim to fame was his ability to install himself invisibly into an ongoing conflict and walk away with its treasure. The Pringle stories are both hilarious and clever. Pringle is an avid bicyclist and there are many London scenes and landmarks referenced in the stories. Pringle’s precise address at Furnival’s was on the second floor, “No. 33, on the left as you enter from Holborn.”

Alas, the building is no longer there. It was torn down in 1889 to make way for a very grand Prudential Insurance building, now called Holborn Bars. However, I did find a bust of Dickens in the portico along with a plaque mentioning Furnival’s Inn. Interestingly, Dickens described Furnival’s Inn in his novel Martin Chuzzlewit: “There are snug chambers in those Inns where the bachelors live, and, for the desolate fellows they pretend to be, it is quite surprising how well they get on.” Perhaps Dickens ran into the desolate bachelor, Romney Pringle, while living and writing there?

.

J. Paul (J.P) Rieger is a born and bred Baltimorean and
mostly retired Maryland attorney. He’s the author of Clonk!, a police
farce set in Baltimore and published in 2023 by Apprentice House Press (Loyola
University-Baltimore). Clonk! was a finalist in 2023’s CIBA Mark Twain
Award for Humor and Satire. He’s also author of The Case Files of Roderick
Misely, Consultant, a 2013 mystery novel featuring a wannabe lawyer
anti-hero. His third novel, The Big Comb Over, a slipstream fantasy/
comedy of manners, was a finalist in 2023’s Wishing Shelf Book Awards. Sunscreen
Shower, a Detective Kev Dixit Novel is Paul’s fourth novel and a
sequel to Clonk! Paul and his spouse lives in Towson, Maryland, a Baltimore
suburb. Chek out his website:
jpaulrieger.net.

Website
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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a 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.

Upas Street by Sherrill Joseph ~ Guest Post And Giveaway

Posted: October 20, 2024 in Excerpt, giveaways, middle grade, Mystery
Tags: , , , ,
9
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Do you dare enter Dr. Frankenstein’s la-BOR-uh-tree? 

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Upas Street: Shocking Specter

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The Botanic Hill
Detectives Mysteries Book 6

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by Sherrill Joseph

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Genre: Middle Grade Paranormal Mystery

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Do you dare enter Dr. Frankenstein’s la-BOR-uh-tree?

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 A fearless quartet of teen sleuths, the Botanic Hill detectives, travel to
Llanfair, a fictitious Welsh village in present-day California, to solve the
mystery of the Shocking Specter.

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The green-glowing apparition reportedly roams the countryside, setting
fire to buildings and meadows during the new moon. The occurrences began
shortly after a motion picture stagehand Scotty Roberts’s accidental death by
electrocution in this case inspired by the filming of Universal Pictures 1931
classic horror movie Frankenstein.

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Supernatural?

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Coincidence?

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Or is criminal activity at work?

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And why, nearly a century later, has the Shocking Specter returned?

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Readers will enjoy learning about real-life horror film star Boris
Karloff, Frankenstein author Mary Shelley, other key players
in the movie’s production, and some early Hollywood cinematic history. Our fabulous four might need to kick some monsters to the curb to solve
this challenging mystery!

.

 For ages 9 to 14. Adults like this series,
too! My present-day Middle-Grade mysteries have a twist of history,
this time, harking to the filming of 1931’s Universal Pictures classic horror
movie Frankenstein.
It is not within the Young-Adult genre that serves ages 14 to
18. 

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What readers are saying:

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 “Follow our detectives to the fictitious Welsh
settlement of Llanfair, California, as they chase a green-glowing specter and
get caught up in a riveting mystery that will introduce young readers to the
magic of old Hollywood horror movies. Kids will stay intrigued from start to
finish.”

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–KIMBERLEY KRAMER, Literacy Specialist, Saint
Katharine Drexel Academy, San Diego, CA

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“I loved this book and could not put it down! I
loved learning about the Hollywood monsters from the old-time days and meeting
the people of Llanfair. You will not be sad that you chose this book to read.”

–SOPHIA O., age 10, San Diego, CA

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“As a professor of History of Film and Monster
and Character Makeup Design, I was intrigued from the first page of this book!
The Golden Age of Hollywood is brought to life in the eyes of the young
protagonists through their exploration of Universal Studios’ Frankenstein
franchise. Joseph not only captured my attention with the charm and
intelligence of her four detectives but had me searching for clues and secret
messages (Easter eggs) to unravel this horror-movie-inspired mystery. Joseph
includes facts about Boris Karloff that I did not know, which delighted me to
no end. Jack Pierce may have never received an Oscar for his iconic makeup
designs, but he gets a wonderful tribute through this exciting story. A
must-read for mystery lovers and film buffs of all ages.”

.

–SHARON LYNN, award-winning author of A
Cotswold Crimes Mystery series; aka SHARON BOLMAN, Senior Professor of Digital
Video and General Education, University of Advancing Technology, Tempe, AZ

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Smashwords * Books2Read * Author’s Site 

Bookbub * Goodreads

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Background: The four Botanic Hill detectives are having dinner with their Llanfair hosts, Mr. and Mrs. Llewellyn. There was one night to go before the new moon and the specter’s likely appearance, so this evening should be relaxing . . . 

The detectives took turns filling the couple in on all the clues and leads they had gathered so far. As usual, Lanny was quick to remind everyone that evidence was scarce so far, but they hoped they were on the right track.

The diners also discussed the day’s unlocked-door issue at the tower museum and were glad the problem seemed under control now. But it would be critical to find out who made a duplicate key and why.

As Moki was reaching for dessert, a powerful, clanging sound began.

The Llewellyns pushed back their chairs immediately and headed for the front door.

Mrs. Llewellyn turned around to the detectives. “It’s a warning bell coming from the village church. Something terrible must have happened! Come with us, quickly.”

Everyone abandoned the dinner table and bolted outdoors. Smoke was already clogging the air, and the group heard a roaring sound. But they continued toward the source. Soon, they joined other villagers, who were shouting and gathering in the town square.

The detectives noticed a large wooden structure on fire! The fire brigade was on the scene trying to douse the tall flames.

“What’s burning?” Lanny asked anyone who would answer.

“Our St. David’s Day festival stage!” said a young woman with a catch in her voice. “We thought building it early would be a good idea, but . . . ” She shook her head.

Lanny looked at the squad. “Are you guys thinking what I’m thinking?”

“Yep,” replied Lexi. “The Shocking Specter did this to distract everyone. It’s on the run—a day early!”

Lanny exhaled. “Ugh! And it’s got a jump on us.”

Rani tugged on Lanny’s sleeve. “Then, what are we waiting for? Let’s go after it.” The athletic girl raced ahead without waiting for a reply. Her three friends followed.

The Shocking Specter likely had a good head start, so the squad decided to go right to the cemetery and tower, ignoring the pond and bridge. The detectives traversed the grassy field in record time. No villagers followed them. Upon reaching the cemetery, Lanny told Moki and Lexi to check there while he and Rani would see if there was any trouble at the tower or its back door.

Soon, the four met between the two destinations.

Lexi held up a large corpse candle. It was a duplicate of the one Lanny had found in the pond, only hers was sparkling a bright red. “We found it by Scotty Roberts’s grave! And congratulations, Moki, for not complaining about returning to your least favorite spot in Llanfair.”

Without waiting for Moki’s reply, Rani said, “The tower museum’s door is still locked, thank goodness, but the doorknob’s loose as if someone’s been tugging on it. And we found a speck of its costume on the bush going down the steps!” She smiled and held up a few threads of fabric, brilliantly glowing green in the dark.

“Hey, guys. Look out there!” Lanny said, pointing.

Far off in the deserted meadow, running northwest toward the dense woods, was the Shocking Specter. It glowed a ghastly green from head to toe, shimmering and pulsating like an animated, computer-generated image. Just as Lanny was going to suggest they follow it, the apparition vanished— as if its lights had been switched off!

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**Don’t miss the rest of the series!**

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Find them on Amazon! 

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Q:  Please discuss your favorite inspirational authors or books.

A:   Nancy Drew mysteries (The Secret of Red Gate Farm and The Phantom of Pine Hill are two favorites), Frances Hodgson Burnett (The Secret Garden), and Phyllis A. Whitney mysteries (The Mystery of the Green Cat; The Secret of the Samurai Sword) still enthrall me. I still reread those for fun and inspiration. As a college English major, I developed a lifelong love of the classics, especially the Sherlock Holmes stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (“The Hound of the Baskervilles”), the Bronte sisters (Jane Eyre; Wuthering Heights), Daphne du Maurier (Rebecca), Bram Stoker (Dracula), Mary Shelley (Frankenstein), Edgar Allan Poe’s stories and poems, and Wilkie Collins (The Moonstone; The Woman in White). From modern times, I am awed and inspired by the writing style of Hazel Gaynor (The Cottingley Secret), John Fowles (The French Lieutenant’s Woman; The Magus), and Frances Mayes (Under the Tuscan Sun), particularly, all three authors’ uses of metaphor and descriptive language. Among children’s authors, I enjoy Steven K. Smith (The Virginia Mysteries), Aaron Johnson (The National Park Mysteries), and Nancy Springer (The Enola Holmes Mysteries).

Q:  Is any of your writing inspired by your actual life?

A:  Yes, mostly from my ongoing childhood! Mysteries have always been my favorite reading and writing genre. Therea re snippets of memories that influenced each of my Botanic Hill Detectives Mysteries. For example, in Book 1, Nutmeg Street: Egyptian Secrets, I employed a memory of visiting my great-aunt. She lived on a canyon and had an old, mossy pond down some steep stone steps. Many trees created a dark, mysterious world there for me. A cousin told me a big black snake hid in the pond and came out at night. In Book 2, Eucalyptus Street: Green Curse, I recalled childhood-book mysteries with secret passages and characters hunting for something hidden. In Book 5, Jacaranda Street: Gravestone Image, I wrapped a mystery around one of my favorite writers, Edgar Allan Poe. In Book 6, Upas Street: Shocking Specter, I showcased my love of Universal Pictures 1931 classic horror film Frankenstein and its inimitable star Boris Karloff as the monster. As a kid, I used to watch those old horror movies on television’s Shock Theater on Saturday nights. I often collect plots ideas on my daily walks in my neighborhood of vintage, historic homes.

Q:  Why the mystery genre, and why do you write cozy mysteries for kids?

A:   I have loved the mystery genre since I discovered Nancy Drew Mysteries at the age of ten. I would finish my schoolwork early so I could pull my book out of my desk and escape to “Nancy Land.” I used to write short mysteries starring Nancy and her friends and vowed that someday, I would write mysteries for children. Kid cozies offer kids a safe place to try on problems and work out solutions. There is crime, but minus the gore and dark peril, so squeamish readers won’t be turned off. Instead, young readers can focus on the actions of likable, role-model amateur sleuths who want to help right wrongs to ensure justice is served. There are often intriguing twists and turns in cozies, lots of clues, food, pets, a red herring or two, and a believable solution to wrap things up with a smile for everyone except the villains.

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Sherrill Joseph was a shy kid whose BFF was
Nancy Drew. From her, the author learned to seek adventures, be kind and fair,
help others everywhere, and become a mystery author someday.

Convinced early on that she was an architect in
a former life, Sherrill was receptive to the magic of her Southern California
neighborhood’s historic houses. To this day, she dramatizes those old
“castles,” filling them with mysteries, staircases, a ghost or two, and
exaggerated occurrences.

The author graduated Phi Beta Kappa and summa
cum laude from San Diego State University. Once retired in 2013 after
teaching kids for thirty-five years in the San Diego public schools, the inner
child in Sherrill created the multi award-winning Botanic Hill Detectives
Mysteries series so her grandkids and all kids can gallop with her and her four
forever-thirteen-year-old sleuths in their standalone cases after clues to nab
the bad guys.

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