Enter a Wizard, Stage Left (A Zodiac Mystery)
Traditional Mystery
Prequel Novella
Suspense Publishing (October 26, 2021)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 111 pages

 

Synopsis

 

Julia Bonatti wasn’t always a crime-solving San Francisco astrologer. She was a young woman, engaged to the love of her life, preparing for a teaching career when tragedy struck. Her fiancé was killed in a hit and run accident. As Julia struggles with her loss and attempts to find meaning in her life again, she takes refuge with her grandmother Gloria. But there’s little time for grief or rest because Gloria, a retired seamstress, needs Julia’s help. Gloria’s been hired to create costumes for a production of Agatha Christie’s Appointment with Death at the newly opened Theatre Mars in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood.

Theatre Mars is a stunning jewel, the cast is supremely talented and the script is brilliant. What could go wrong? Julia gets the first hint of trouble when her new friend, the owner of The Mystic Eye bookshop, warns that all might not go well. Opening night will take place during the dark of the moon, the last three days before the new moon, a time that bodes disaster for any new project. The dire prediction comes true when the lead actress is murdered before the final curtain, echoing the play itself. Julia discovers a vital clue to the murder, but a clue that puts Gloria’s life in grave danger. Can Julia rescue her grandmother before it’s too late? And will a black cat play a leading role?

 

 

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Review

 

I have read a few books in this series and love the mystical aspect of the stories. The zodiac intrigues me and someday I might want to learn more about it myself.

I really enjoyed getting to know Julie and how she fell into astrology and this prequel definitely answers all of those questions. Plus there is a murder to solve along the way.

The premise of the book is a play being put on by a local theater featuring an Agatha Christie story. I don’t think I had heard of this one, so I loved reading along and learning more about one of her infamous characters, Hercules Poirot.  Julie ends up at the theater with her grandmother helping with costumes and that is the perfect place to be to discover the clues and uncover the killer. I don’t think she expected to do that and I felt like I was right there with her figuring it all out. I’m not sure I suspected the killer but it made sense once all of the clues were revealed.

I enjoyed meeting Gale and discovering how she decided to set up a mystic shop. I find that whole world very fascinating.

If you haven’t read any of this series, or even if you have, definitely check out this prequel to learn a bit more about Julie; Gale; Julie’s grandmother, Gloria; and Kuan, her grandmother’s tenant.

We give this 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

Guest Post

 

Today we have a few words from the character, Gale Hymson. She is quite an intriguing character and I love her shop!

 

Gale Hymson

 

What an exciting evening I had last night!

It all started when I met a very interesting woman two days ago.  I was in the back parking lot of my shop breaking down boxes for the recycle bin.  You see, I’m Gale Hymson and I’m the owner of the newly-opened Mystic Eye, an occult bookshop in San Francisco.  That’s when I spotted a woman in the next-door parking lot of another building.

Her name is Julia Bonatti.  We said hello and Julia told me she was helping her grandmother with costumes for a production of Agatha Christie’s Appointment with Death.  I was intrigued because I’d seen workmen coming and going and I was really happy we’d have a small theater in our neighborhood.  I invited her over to visit my shop.  I told her my shop is well-stocked with books, jewelry, Tarot decks and lots of other interesting things a customer might not find anywhere else.

Long story short, Julia invited me to the opening night of Appointment with Death.  I thought it would be a quiet, enjoyable evening.  No such luck.  I couldn’t leave until the police had interviewed each and every one of us.  Why you ask?  Well, because of the murder!  The lead actress was murdered on stage in front of a live audience!  Talk about a riveting evening!

I do hope it’s not the last time I see Julia.  I think she’d be very interested in my shop and some of the astrology books we carry.  I’d love it if she became a regular customer!

 

 

About the Author

 

With the Zodiac Mysteries, featuring Julia Bonatti, a crime-solving San Francisco astrologer, Connie di Marco has combined her fascination with astrology and her love of writing mysteries.  Writing as Connie Archer, she’s the national bestselling author of the Soup Lover’s Mysteries from Berkley Prime Crime.  You can find her excerpts and recipes in The Cozy Cookbook and The Mystery Writers of America Cookbook.  She is a member of International Thriller Writers, Mystery Writers of America, and Sisters in Crime.  She lives in Los Angeles but dreams constantly of the San Francisco fog.

 

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Giveaway

 

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Synopsis

 

The genie is out of the bottle. After decades of secrecy, Stella has finally made her resort’s natural hot springs available to guests. Little does she know, the waters have magical healing powers. Not only do the springs cure physical ailments, but matters of the heart as well. When word gets out, she has a riot of opportunity seekers on her hands.

Presley could use a bit of that healing magic. She returns to the inn for an unexpected visit, pregnant, planning to stay for the summer, and refusing to talk about her new husband. Did she leave Everett’s concert tour because of the pregnancy? Or is there trouble in paradise already?

Also on a collision course are Cecily and Lyle who’ve been living together for six months. Things aren’t working out as they’d hoped. Their separate roads in life rarely cross. Cecily knows she may have to yield if their paths are to merge. But at what cost? Is she willing to give up the career she’s worked so hard for?

Ollie is new on staff, hired by Stella to manage the Wellness Center. After a messy divorce and losing her family’s vineyard in a fire, she’s moved from California to Hope Springs in search of a fresh start. Most newcomers to Hope Springs are running, hiding, or searching. In Ollie’s case, it’s all three.

The magical healing waters of Hope Springs are powerful. But are they enough to set this group of sojourners on the paths that will lead to their ultimate happiness?

 

 

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Review

 

It is time to journey back to Hope Springs Farm and discover what the ladies are up to at the resort.

This series has all the feels and deals with many life-altering issues and how some might handle the various situations. The book is told from multiple points of view and we get a look into what each woman is dealing with outside of her job at Hope Springs Farm.

Ollie is running from a tragic accident that happened at the family home in California and it is causing her massive anxiety. I like that Ollie tries to find other ways to handle the anxiety outside of prescriptions. She is put in a situation near the end that reveals a lot about what happened previously that is causing all of this anxiety. I wasn’t too surprised at how one part of her story turned out because I suspected something wasn’t quite right with what happened in California and there was more to the story than we knew.

Presley has returned to be around friends and family while her husband is on the road performing. Since she is pregnant, I totally understand how traveling with a musician could be hard on her and not the best way to go through a pregnancy. Both Presley and Everett need to learn to compromise and figure out the best way to be married, have a child, and not let life rip them apart. I think there is more to come in their story because it is not resolved in this book. She is also trying to reconnect with her birth mother but that is not going well for the most part.

Cecily is passionate about her career as a chef, but I don’t think her fiance Lyle understands. We learn more about their relationship and why it isn’t working. You have to be on the same page in all areas of life to really have a successful relationship. I won’t spoil what happens but it is a good thing!

Stella has worked hard to bring this resort back to life and she is nearing the end of the renovations and this has her a little stir crazy. Plus, she is discovering information about the mineral baths that she didn’t know and it is causing a frenzy that is about to drive everyone crazy. I love how we get a peek at some journals from the past that gives us more details about the resort.

This book felt a little heavier than the others because all of these women are dealing with issues that are weighing them down. Some are resolved in this book and I imagine the rest will be resolved in the final book due out a little later this year. Despite the seriousness of some of the issues, I still found myself engrossed in the story and I felt like I was right there at the resort with these ladies. There are some funny moments with a bridezilla, but heartwarming as well when this bride realizes that life is about to change and she needs to go with the flow.

I always love the wisdom that comes from Opal and Jack, they are such wise souls and help ground these women when they need it.

I love this series and do recommend reading it in order to follow the paths of these women. I can’t wait for the final book in this series, but I will also be a little sad because it means no more looks into the going on’s at Hope Springs Farm.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Ashley Farley writes books about women for women. Her characters are mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives facing real-life issues. Her bestselling Sweeney Sisters series has touched the lives of many.

Ashley is a wife and mother of two young adult children. While she’s lived in Richmond, Virginia for the past 21 years, a piece of her heart remains in the salty marshes of the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she still calls home. Through the eyes of her characters, she captures the moss-draped trees, delectable cuisine, and kindhearted folk with lazy drawls that make the area so unique.

 

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Synopsis

 

She has zero interest in a happily ever after. He won’t let another woman down. Too bad they can’t keep their hands off each other.

Barney is the very definition of hot and cold. One minute he’s kissing the daylights out of me. But the next moment he can’t run away fast enough. It’s enough to give a girl a complex.

Then my apartment is trashed and he says he’s done farting around. He’s going to protect me and we’re going to work on our relationship.

Um, excuse me? What relationship? I’m not looking for ‘the one’. Except when Barney touches me, I forget all about my past and why I’m not in the market for a happily ever after.

But maybe Barney can be the one to prove to me Love will OUT. Assuming the person who’s stalking me doesn’t catch me first that is.

 

This later in life romantic comedy features a woman who thinks relationships are for other people, a silver fox who can’t make up his dang mind about whether he wants to try for another relationship, a group of friends who think taking bets on when the two will get together will surely lead to wedding bells and a makeshift family of former Army buddies who can not only tell dirty jokes but still have skills.

 

A Valentine for Valerie is a standalone book in the Love will OUT romantic comedy series.

 

A Hero for Hailey – Hailey and Aiden’s story

A Protector for Phoebe – Phoebe and Ryker’s story

A Soldier for Suzie – Suzie and Grayson’s story

A Fox for Faith – Faith and Max’s story

A Christmas for Chrissie – Chrissie and Wally’s story

A Valentine for Valerie – Valerie and Barney’s story

A Love for Lexi – Lexi and Lenny’s story

 

 

Amazon

 

 

 

Review

 

I love this series and the humor sprinkled throughout from the situations and characters. I always get a good chuckle from this author.

This book focuses on Barney and Val. Barney is older (mid to late 50’s) and Val is 45. I appreciate seeing older characters find love because it does happen, it isn’t always the younger ones! They met at Thanksgiving and sparks flew but Val has issues from her past that affect how she sees Barney and relationships. Barney just wants to protect her, partially due to his past and his military training.

Val does find herself in a little bit of trouble (in fact that is Barney’s nickname for her, Trouble) and it is Barney and the brothers to the rescue. This is a band of men you would want on your side if you found yourself in precarious situations, no matter how independent you are in this world.

While you can read this book as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the other books first because you will understand the dynamics of the characters and why they might say and do certain things.

I can’t wait for the last book about the last “brother” to fall in love.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

Excerpt

 

“We need to talk, Valerie.” I scowl at Barney’s declaration. I have spent my entire life avoiding having the ‘talk’ with a man. Barney Lewis is not going to ruin my streak.

He may be one sexy middle-aged man – my hands itch to run through the soft texture of his black hair once again and his ever present five o’clock shadow gives my body all kinds of ideas of how his stubble will feel scratching certain areas of my delicate skin – but his handsome appearance doesn’t give him the right to boss me around.

Especially not when we’re at a wedding. A surprise wedding on Christmas day no less. Barney’s friend, Wally, proposed to his girlfriend, Chrissie, this morning, and then when they arrived at McGraw’s Pub to celebrate Christmas with everyone, he surprised her with a wedding. Naturally, Chrissie freaked out, but we got her down the aisle eventually.

Welp. Best get this stupid ‘talk’ over with, so I can get back to enjoying the party. I indicate the hallway leading to the restrooms. When he lifts his chin in agreement, I square my shoulders and march to the hallway as if I’m not dreading this stupid conversation.

Barney doesn’t immediately follow me. Of course not. He doesn’t want anyone to know what we’ve been up to after all. He made those thoughts perfectly clear when he ran away from me on Saturday evening after kissing the daylights out of me.

 

 

About the Author

 

I grew up reading everything I could get my grubby hands on, from my mom’s Harlequin romances to Nancy Drew, to Little Women. When I wasn’t flipping pages in a library book, I was penning horrendous poems, writing songs no one should ever sing, or drafting stories which have thankfully been destroyed. College and a stint in the U.S. Army came along, robbing me of free time to write and read, although on the odd occasion I did manage to sneak a book into my rucksack between rolled up socks, MRIs, t-shirts, and cold weather gear. After surviving the army experience, I went back to school and got my law degree. I jumped ship and joined the hubby in the Netherlands before the graduation ceremony could even begin. A few years into my legal career, I was exhausted, fed up, and just plain done. I quit my job and sat down to write a manuscript, which I promptly hid in the attic before returning to the law. But practicing law really wasn’t my thing, so I quit (again!) and went off to Germany to start a B&B. Turns out running a B&B wasn’t my thing either. I polished off that manuscript languishing in the attic before following the husband to Istanbul where I decided to give the whole writer-thing a go. But ten years was too many to stay away from my adopted home. I packed up again and moved to The Hague where, in between tennis matches and failing to save the world, I’m currently working on my next book. I hope I’ll always be working on my next book.

 

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Synopsis

 

From the author of the critically acclaimed Time Box series comes the dramatic conclusion of a story that spans a century.

Two years after stealing portable time machines, the Lanes, a family from the present day, stop running and start living. They settle in the seaside town of Coronado, California, in 1963.

For Jordan, Laura, and Jeremy, the oldest children, the respite is a chance to nurture relationships, start families, and explore the country. It is an opportunity to put down roots.

For Ashley, the youngest, it is a chance to thrive. Now fourteen, she is ready to start high school, make friends, and make up for lost time. She finds popularity and more after a classmate nominates her for freshman homecoming princess.

Robert Devereaux could not care less. The deranged billionaire wants his time machines back and is willing to do anything to get them. He sends a hitman to the past, setting into motion a final confrontation between a hunter and his prey.

In CROWN CITY, the suspenseful finale of the Time Box saga, a defiant family finds romance, friendship, and danger as it navigates the final months of the Kennedy presidency.

 

 

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Review

 

I love reading time travel novels and this author knows how to research his material and provide a twisting tale that will engage and enlighten the reader.

This is the fifth and final book in the Time Box Series featuring the Lane family. This series really should be read in order to understand what happened in the past and how they ended up where they are in each novel.

The Lane family starts in the year 2020 in the first book and goes back in time to escape a maniacal boss and to protect the time travel boxes from being used in a devious way to change history. This band of five encounters many historical events and while the desire to change history is strong, they resist and let history play out the way it happened. Each book goes back and forth in time between the present and the current year the Lane’s are inhabiting. In this last book, they are in 1963 and they are hoping this is the last time they will have to jump in time and hope to make a few minor changes to Robert Deveraux’s life as a young boy that might change who he becomes in the present.

Each book that I have read in this series has been educational, as well as entertaining. I became invested in the Lane family and their desire to outrun Robert and the contract killer that was sent to take them out. What that killer didn’t realize is that he was dealing with people from the past with no fear to protect what is theirs, and in this case, he has faced Jessie in several books and lost every time to her gun skills and the ability to recognize that she is only protecting her family.

I also watched the Lane children grow, mature, and fall in love. It was interesting to see how the people they met in the past adapted to the news that they were from the future. I also enjoyed watching Mary slowly “lose” her children to spouses. It has been an intense few years on the run and watching your children find love and want to establish roots has to be hard because that means she will soon be an “empty nester.” Her last daughter, Ashley, is 14 and is definitely hitting those teenage years and wanting to spread her wings. That gives Mary something to focus on to keep her from doing anything she might regret.

The story wraps up this novel but there are a few questions that weren’t answered for me regarding Robert and if some changes to his past affected him in the future. But of course, if it did, the Lane’s wouldn’t have gone on the run and had the experiences that they did in the past. Or would they have had this adventure?

Either way, this is a fantastic series and I highly recommend this series or any other book from this author especially if you like time travel novels. Oh, and I liked the nod to another series with the location mention! We give it 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

John A. Heldt is a reference librarian and the author of the critically acclaimed Northwest Passage time-travel series. The former award-winning sportswriter and newspaper editor has loved getting subjects and verbs to agree since writing book reports on baseball heroes in grade school. A graduate of the University of Oregon and the University of Iowa, he is an avid fisherman, sports fan, home brewer, and reader of thrillers and historical fiction. When not sending contemporary characters to the not-so-distant past, he weighs in on literature and life on his blog.

 

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Synopsis

 

Molly Gray is not like everyone else. She struggles with social skills and misreads the intentions of others. Her gran used to interpret the world for her, codifying it into simple rules that Molly could live by.

Since Gran died a few months ago, twenty-five-year-old Molly has been navigating life’s complexities all by herself. No matter—she throws herself with gusto into her work as a hotel maid. Her unique character, along with her obsessive love of cleaning and proper etiquette, make her an ideal fit for the job. She delights in donning her crisp uniform each morning, stocking her cart with miniature soaps and bottles, and returning guest rooms at the Regency Grand Hotel to a state of perfection.

But Molly’s orderly life is upended the day she enters the suite of the infamous and wealthy Charles Black, only to find it in a state of disarray and Mr. Black himself dead in his bed. Before she knows what’s happening, Molly’s unusual demeanor has the police targeting her as their lead suspect. She quickly finds herself caught in a web of deception, one she has no idea how to untangle. Fortunately for Molly, friends she never knew she had unite with her in a search for clues to what really happened to Mr. Black—but will they be able to find the real killer before it’s too late?

A Clue-like, locked-room mystery and a heartwarming journey of the spirit, The Maid explores what it means to be the same as everyone else and yet entirely different—and reveals that all mysteries can be solved through connection to the human heart.

 

 

This book releases January 4th, pre-order now!

 

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Review

 

What a debut book for this author! I always love a good mystery and this takes it to another level since the protagonist, Molly, is a maid in the hotel where the body is found and appears to have Asperger’s. However, this makes her a very efficient maid because of her attention to detail and following the rules, even though others do not. Molly is the kind of woman you would want as a friend because she is loyal, perhaps to a fault, and looks for the good in everyone.

Molly stumbles across the body of Mr. Black and at first, thinks he is just sleeping until she gets closer and realizes he is dead. The way her mind works, she takes in the scene around here which proves to be an attribute and a detriment especially when the police think Molly is the killer. I have to admit, there is a lot of circumstantial evidence that points her way because it is arranged that way by the killer. But Molly doesn’t let that slow her down and with the help of a few new friends, seeks to clear her name and get her job back.

I enjoyed the twists that this book takes the reader and I was quite surprised by a few turns of events. While I suspected some characters of being up to no good, I had no idea the depths of their deception.

I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and how some proved their merit to be a part of Molly’s world. I loved Mr. Preston and how he did his best to watch out for Molly per her Grandmother’s request. There is more to that story that is revealed and it was a suspicion I had that proved me right.

This book is to be made into a movie and I’ll be curious to see who is cast in these roles. It could be quite an interesting movie.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Nita Prose is a longtime editor, serving many bestselling authors and their books. She lives in Toronto, Canada, in a house that is only moderately clean.

 

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From award-winning chef Gabriel Kreuther, the definitive cookbook on rustic French cooking from Alsace

Gabriel Kreuther is the cookbook fans of the James Beard Award-winning chef have long been waiting for. From one of the most respected chefs in the United States, this cookbook showcases the recipes inspired by Kreuther’s French-Swiss-German training and refined global style, one that embraces the spirits of both Alsace, his homeland, and of New York City, his adopted home. Sharing his restaurant creations and interpretations of traditional Alsatian dishes, Kreuther will teach the proper techniques for making every dish, whether simple or complex, a success. Recipes include everything from the chef’s take on classic Alsatian food like the delicious Flammekueche(or Tarte Flambée) and hearty Baeckeoffe (a type of casserole stew) to modern dishes like the flavorful Roasted Button Mushroom Soup served with Toasted Chorizo Raviolis and the decadent Salmon Roe Beggar’s Purse garnished with Gold Leaf.

Featuring personal stories from the chef’s childhood in France and career in New York as well as stunning photography, Gabriel Kreuther is the definitive resource for Alsatian cooking worthy of fine dining.

 

 

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Review

 

I have loved being a part of the Abrams Dinner Party the last few years. I have always loved to cook (and my mom isn’t sure where I got that gene) and receiving all of these wonderful cookbooks has opened up a new world for me. I was especially intrigued by this book because of my French and German background. When I think of German food, I think of heavy meals. French brings up thoughts of rich decadent foods. In this book, I see the best of all worlds and even learned a new recipe or two.

When you open this book, you will find glorious photos of the dishes, countryside, and it might just leave you dreaming about a trip to this beautiful countryside. I love that there are photos of every recipe. Sometimes you will find books that only share some images, but I think it is a benefit to those cooking to see what the dish might should look like when complete. This helps me in case I am way off when cooking. It happens to all of us.

I enjoyed how the chef wove in his personal tale to the book. I’ve noticed that more with cookbooks as of late and I think it adds that personal touch. We all like to see authors as other humans and how we might relate to them.

I have bookmarked many recipes but decided to try one of the cookie recipes for my book club cookie exchange. I decided to try the Cinnamon Stars recipes but used a heart cookie cutter since I didn’t have a star. I was a bit concerned when I first assembled the dough because the only “wet” ingredient was room-temperature butter. After the dough chilled and I tried rolling it out, the dough was too crumbly. However, I added a little bit of water to the dough and it came together nicely. I suspect you might want to add a little water to the dough before chilling, much like you would with a pie crust. But adding it once it has come back to room temperature works too.

If you are looking for a gorgeous cookbook that brings together multiple types of cuisine, definitely take a look at this book. You might find a new favorite recipe or two.

 

 

Cinnamon Stars

 

Ingredients

1 3/4 c All-purpose flour

2/3 c butter at room temperature

1/2 c granulated sugar

3/4 c almond flour

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Glacage or an icing made from powdered sugar and water (which is what I used)

 

Combine the flour, butter, sugar, almond flour, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl and bring it all together by hand as you would a pastry dough. (hint – wear gloves to make it easier to clean your hands!) Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate it for at least an hour and as long as a day.

Preheat the over to 350°

Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into stars (or whatever cutter you have). Place them onto a parchment-lined sheet pan and bake for 8-10 minutes, rotating the sheet pan 180 degrees halfway through the baking time. (I baked for 10 minutes and did rotate the pan)

Let them cool and then, finish with the icing. (I used about 8T of powdered sugar with 1T water and then used a pastry brush to ice the cookies). If you want to add some color, add a drop or two of food coloring to the powdered sugar.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Frosted Yuletide Murder (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series)
Cozy Mystery
4th in Series
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cinnamon & Sugar Press (December 17, 2021)
Digital ~300 Pages

 

Synopsis

 

Set against the holiday cheer of twinkling lights, costumed carolers, and a festive line of extravagantly decorated boats participating in the annual Christmas boat parade in Newport Beach, California, cupcake caterer Emory Martinez finds that the grinch has crashed the party. Together with her sister Carrie, Emory is catering a delectable feast of holiday cupcakes and cookies aboard a luxury yacht for the new Mrs. Blair Villman and her guests.

Sparks fly when Carrie comes face-to-face with the hostess, who just happens to be Carrie’s high school frenemy, and old grievances are dredged up. Adding fuel to the fire, Blair’s stepson brings his mother, the former Mrs. Villman, to the party. Instead of celebrating holiday cheer, someone seems intent on channeling the Burgermeister Meisterburger and shutting down Blair’s party permanently. When Emory finds a body aboard the yacht, she needs to discover who iced the victim before the Scrooge ruins not only her livelihood but her freedom as well.

Includes delicious holiday recipes.

 

 

Amazon

 

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Review

 

This is one of my favorite series and not because I feel like I gain 10 pounds every time I read one! I love the characters, the mystery is well crafted, and there is enough family drama to keep it interesting.

There is a lot going on for this family, Emory and Carrie found out that they have a half-sister and are all set to meet her in person in this installment. One thing I enjoy is how open and welcoming everyone is to Vannie. Things were a bit different when she was born and the situation between the parents. Thankfully, she decided to do a DNA test and discovered Brian and the rest is history. Vannie is quite the character and I think she is going to fit in well with this bunch. It took me a bit to realize that Emory and Brian are not related since he is related to Vannie. Her mom and his dad are Vannie’s parents. So don’t get too confused when reading this book.

Now for the mystery. I tend to say this a lot when I am reading a mystery, but sometimes some characters just need killin’. In this case, it is the mean girl from high school, Blair, that tormented Carrie. Emory was lucky enough to stay off her radar in high school, but when they cater an event on her yacht there is no escaping her harmful barbs. It doesn’t help that one of the staff takes this as permission to also torment them during the party. There are several possibilities as to who the killer might be and while I suspected a certain character, there are some red herrings to throw you off track.

This series is so much fun especially when it comes to the recipes. All of the cupcakes, cookies, and other desserts always sound so delicious, and if I didn’t think I would gain 10 lbs by making them I certainly would. Maybe for an event where I can share the goodies. Basically, I can relate to Emory who tends to sample a little more than she should. Nothing wrong with making sure it all comes out tasty!

We give this book 5 paws up and look forward to the next book in this series.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Kim Davis lives in Southern California with her husband. When she’s not spending time with her granddaughters she can be found either writing stories or working on her blog, Cinnamon, Sugar, and a Little Bit of Murder or in the kitchen baking up yummy treats.  She has published the suspense novel, A GAME OF DECEIT, and cozy mystery, SPRINKLES OF SUSPICION and CAKE POPPED OFF. She also has had several children’s articles published in Cricket, Nature Friend, Skipping Stones, and the Seed of Truth magazines. Kim Davis is a member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime.

 

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Giveaway

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title: A CHRISTMAS KINDNESS

Author: Cheryl C. Malandrinos

Publisher: 4RV Publishing

Pages: 52

Genre: First Chapter Reader

 

 

Synopsis

 

Eight-year-old Robert is eager to share his wish list with Santa at the mall on Christmas Eve. When he meets Glenn, who only has one request for Santa, Robert is confused about what he should do. Can he cast aside what he wants and ask Santa to bring his new friend a special gift?

 

 

Amazon * 4RV Publishing * B&N * IndieBound

 

 

Praise

 

It is not often that a simple children’s book can nearly bring me to tears, but this one succeeded. There is nothing better than reading a story at Christmastime that reminds you that there are still good people and good kids in the world. This is one heartwarming Christmas story that you and your kids can read and enjoy. It will remind you of the true meaning of Christmas, and I believe that the author’s purpose is accomplished. – Ruth, Amazon Reviewer

 

Robert can’t wait to see Santa. He’s got a pile of stuff he wants to ask for. Then he meets Glenn in line, and Robert himself gets to play Santa. I was touched by the main character’s transformation after he came in contact with someone in real need. The glow he walks away with can’t be bought, and he’ll never find it under the Christmas tree, but it’s the heart of the season that he’s found. Nicely illustrated, enjoyable story for readers of all ages. – Jude, Amazon Reviewer

 

 

 

 

 

Excerpt

 

“Oh, when will we get there?” whispered Robert from the backseat of his mother’s car. He fiddled with the pull on his coat. The wipers brushed aside the snow falling on the windshield.

As they arrived, lines of cars streamed in and out of the mall parking lot. Robert peered over his mother’s shoulder and saw her white-knuckled grip on the steering wheel. She huffed as she scanned the parking lot for an empty space. He wiggled around, but his seat belt kept him secure.

Inside the mall, Christmas music and the tinkling of jingle bells tickled Robert’s ears. With his mother, Robert weaved through the crowd of shoppers. He smelled fried food from Burger Mart. The sweet scent of warm chocolate chip cookies from the bakery made his mouth water.

Robert’s shoulders drooped when he saw how many kids waited to see Santa. There were babies, some crying and struggling to get out of their mother’s arms. Little kids, many younger than eight-year-old Robert, clung to their father’s pants or jumped up and down as they waited their turn.

“This is going to take forever!”

 

 

Review

 

This book is the perfect way to teach kindness to young children in a way they can understand.

Robert is like most kids and has big dreams for Christmas gifts. That is until he meets another kid in line that doesn’t want anything except a photo with his brother. That gave me pause to think about how many things I have wanted over the years and it humbles me to think about those that have less than most of us do in life.

Outside of the story, the book is chock full of ideas for projects, crafts, discussion questions, and even history about Christmas in other parts of the world.

The illustrations depict the story well and depending on the age of the reader/listener, could have used a few more.

This book makes a great interactive tool for parents to use with their children to teach them how to be kind and giving, especially during the holidays. Although, we should be kind and give year-round because those in need have the need for assistance throughout the year.

I would recommend this book for readers age 7 and up and for parents to read it to younger children.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Cheryl C. Malandrinos is a freelance writer and editor. She is the author of four children’s books including, A Christmas Kindness, released by 4RV Publishing. A member of SCBWI, she is blogger and book reviewer. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two daughters. She also has a son who is married.

 

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In her follow-up cookbook to Salad for President, cook, writer, and artist Julia Sherman shows us how to apply an artist’s touch to our own home gatherings.

Artists throw superior parties, and we can learn from their willingness to draw outside the lines, choose character over perfection, and find boundless joy in feeding family and friends. Cook, live, and host like an artist with inspired, easy recipes and playful hands-on experiments in the kitchen.

Sherman shows you how to be the architect of your own uniquely memorable bash, whether that means a special breakfast for two, or a “choose your own adventure” meal that’s flexible enough to feed a crowd. Forget the codified markers of good taste—Arty Parties instead reveals that modern gatherings are less about “getting it right” and more about getting your hands dirty, building community, and taking risks in the kitchen and beyond. Featuring colorful food that is confident in its simplicity, Sherman shares easy-to-follow, healthy recipes that value imaginative flavor combinations over complexity: dishes like an avocado-lemongrass panna cotta, saffron tomato soup, coconut rice cakes with smashed avocado and soy-marinated eggs, and roasted broccolini and blood oranges with a creamy pepita sauce.

This book also invites readers into the idiosyncratic gatherings of internationally acclaimed artists, from a chic office party in a Parisian art book publisher’s atelier to an underground earth oven pizza party on a secluded hillside in Los Angeles. Woven throughout are Sherman’s own homegrown events that are relatable yet wonderfully experimental in tone.

Utterly unique and beautifully designed, Arty Parties is a guide to creating meaningful experiences that nourish both the host and their guests in body, mind, and soul.

 

 

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Review

 

One of the best parts of being a member of the Abrams Dinner Party is receiving the new books that are coming out; trying all sorts of fantastic recipes; and learning so much more about food, beverages, and entertaining. This book is no different and is filled with colorful photos, menus plans, dinner themes, and delectable recipes.

When I receive books such as this, I like to quickly flip through them just to get a feel for what is included inside. Then I will take it more slowly to digest what the author is trying to impart to the reader. At first glance, this book is colorful and will capture your attention – from brightly colored pages to photos of the dishes.

I loved the introduction because a lot of what she said is so true when it comes to hosting dinner parties. Don’t critique what you make, if it is edible that is all that matters!  Your friends and family are there for the interaction, the food is just a bonus. Live in a small space? That is ok because then everyone is closer together (maybe not ideal every time in this pandemic) and the interaction is more organic. Make extra because who doesn’t love leftovers?

Each chapter is more than just a meal suggestion and recipes, it is also a concept and how to engage those that attend. Stretch your mind and keep your next dinner party low-key and don’t stress over the small stuff. I know that I tend to worry about small things but reading this book reminds me that it is about the people and not how perfect everything looks.

I have made several recipes from this book and everything turned out delicious, even with some modifications. Don’t be afraid to tweak recipes if you don’t have something or can’t find it. The recipe will turn out just fine. For example, I made the Chicken and Jeweled Rice and swapped dried cherries for the golden raisins, black cardamon pods for green, and I didn’t have pomegranate molasses or cinnamon sticks so just left that out. Everything still turned out delicious even with the substitutions. Sometimes recipes call for items that are not easy to find or are expensive, just look at what you do have and play around with your dish.

I also made the Perennial Saffron Tomato Soup. Oh my, this is VERY easy and oh so good especially as we are going into colder weather and makes the perfect accompaniment to a sandwich at lunchtime. The saffron gives that little something extra. I didn’t have Aleppo peppers so left it out but can imagine the pop in flavor if I had them on hand. Oh and of course I added more than 1 clove of garlic, who adds just 1 when cooking? Not me that is for sure.

 

 

I have other recipes earmarked including a parmesan broth. I have always thrown away the rinds from my parmesan but not anymore! I have a bag in the freezer and as soon as I have enough I will be giving this one a whirl.

This book can be the starting point for any dinner party you want to throw and don’t be afraid to put your own twist on the event or the recipe.

 

 

About the Author

 

Julia Sherman is a Los Angeles based artist, writer, cook, and photographer who runs Salad for President, an evolving publishing project that draws a meaningful connection between food, art, and everyday obsessions. Each of Sherman’s blog entries contains a salad recipe made in collaboration with an artist, musician, writer, or creative professional, living their lives artfully.

This online platform serves as a springboard for events, collaborations, and public programming. In the summer of 2014, Salad For President created the first ever MoMA PS1 Salad Garden, reimagining the previously unused rooftop of the museum as a public space for heirloom vegetables, performances, and dinners. The second Salad Garden was installed at the Los Angeles Getty Museum in 2015. Sherman has been the Creative Director at Chopt Creative Salad Company since 2015. Sherman, and her writing, have been featured in Vogue, The New York Times, T Mag, Domino, Art in America, Modern Painter’s, Triple Canopy, Cherry Bombe, The Paris Review, Martha Stewart, Food & Wine, and Bon Appétit, amongst others.

Sherman’s Salad for President: A Cookbook Inspired by Artists was published by Abrams Books in the Spring of 2017, and is available for sale. Her second cookbook will be published Fall 2021, and is a treatise on the messy art of entertaining.

Sherman is also the founder and creator of Jus Jus Verjus, a low ABV sparkling wine made in collaboration with natural winemaker Martha Stoumen.

 

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Synopsis

 

Uncovering a dark family secret sends one woman through the history of Britain’s World War II spy network and glamorous 1930s Paris to save her family’s reputation.

Caroline Payne thinks it’s just another day of work until she receives a call from Mat Hammond, an old college friend and historian. But pleasantries are cut short. Mat has uncovered a scandalous secret kept buried for decades: In World War II, Caroline’s British great-aunt betrayed family and country to marry her German lover.

Determined to find answers and save her family’s reputation, Caroline flies to her family’s ancestral home in London. She and Mat discover diaries and letters that reveal her grandmother and great-aunt were known as the “Waite sisters.” Popular and witty, they came of age during the interwar years, a time of peace and luxury filled with dances, jazz clubs, and romance. The buoyant tone of the correspondence soon yields to sadder revelations as the sisters grow apart, and one leaves home for the glittering fashion scene of Paris, despite rumblings of a coming world war.

Each letter brings more questions. Was Caroline’s great-aunt actually a traitor and Nazi collaborator, or is there a more complex truth buried in the past? Together, Caroline and Mat uncover stories of spies and secrets, love and heartbreak, and the events of one fateful evening in 1941 that changed everything.

In this rich historical novel by award-winning author Katherine Reay, a young woman is tasked with writing the next chapter of her family’s story. But Caroline must choose whether to embrace a love of her own and proceed with caution if her family’s decades-old wounds are to heal without tearing them even further apart.

 

 

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Praise

 

“Carefully researched, emotionally hewn, and written with a sure hand, The London House is a tantalizing tale of deeply held secrets, heartbreak, redemption, and the enduring way that family can both hurt and heal us. I enjoyed it thoroughly.”— Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Forest of Vanishing Stars and The Book of Lost Names

“An expertly researched and marvelously paced treatise on the many variants of courage and loyalty . . . Arresting historical fiction destined to thrill fans of Erica Roebuck and Pam Jenoff.”— Rachel McMillan, author of The London Restoration and The Mozart Code

“Reay’s fast-paced foray into the past cleverly reveals a family’s secrets and how a pivotal moment shaped future generations. Readers who enjoy engrossing family mystery should take note.”— Publisher’s Weekly  

 

 

Review

 

Family history may not always be what you expected.

Caroline is approached by her college friend, Mat, who believes that her great-aunt was a Nazi collaborator during WWII. He discovered some information while researching another person from that time and stumbled across some potentially damaging information. Determined to get to the truth, Caroline takes off for London to read through letters and diaries left by her grandmother. What they find is something altogether different and sheds new light on what they thought they knew as the truth.

I enjoy stories that go back and forth in time because it gives us a broader picture of what might have happened to cause certain events to occur. While the past is primarily told through letters and diary entries, the words transported me and I could envision the Waite sisters, Caro and Margo (short for Caroline and Margaret), and the situations they found themselves in as young girls, teenagers, and young women. There is also the mystery of who Caroline was and what did she do during WWII? Was she in bed with the Germans or was there something more to the story?

I haven’t read anything else from this author, but I found the story to be well written and the pacing just right. There is family drama when it comes to Caroline’s parents and family and perhaps this truth will set things right. But you’ll have to read the book to find out the ending!

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Katherine Reay is the national bestselling and award-winning author of Dear Mr. Knightley, Lizzy and Jane, The Brontë Plot, A Portrait of Emily Price, The Austen Escape, and The Printed Letter Bookshop. All Katherine’s novels are contemporary stories with a bit of classical flair. Katherine holds a BA and MS from Northwestern University, graduating Phi Beta Kappa, and is a wife, mother, former marketer, and avid chocolate consumer. After living all across the country and a few stops in Europe, Katherine now happily resides outside Chicago, IL.

 

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