The Bistro issue 2

The Bistro ISSUE NO. O2 • JANURARY 2018

Jennifer Ashley on her debut series!

Berkley Prime Crime News Features Interviews Reviews Recipes Guest Post Blogger News Giveaways

ALL

GENRES

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VARIOUS

AUTHORS

Contents

Cover author 5

Interview * Excerpt from Dead Below Stairs * Book feature * Bio

Guest author 22

Guest Post * Social Media

Publisher news 68

Feature authors 16

Excerpt from The Sun God’s Heir * Book feature *Bio

32

Excerpt from The Scent of Rain * Book feature * Bio * Social Media

36

Interview * * Book feature * Bio * Social Media

41

Book feature * Bio * Social Media

43

Interview * Social Media

New Releases

Blogger news 72

Interview * Bio * Social Media

75

Information

47

Book feature * Bio

Disclosure Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click on a product link, we may receive compensation. This compensation comes at no additional cost to you, and as always we only recommend products we trust!

Contents

Feature authors 48

Interview * * Book feature * Bio * Social Media

53

Character Interview * * Book feature * Bio *

93

Book feature * Bio * Social Media

98

Interview * Book feature * Social Media * Bio

100

Interview * Bio * Social Media

103

Book feature * Social Media

105

Book feature * Bio

83

Interview * Excerpt from Grady Judd * Book feature * Social Media

107

Guest Post * Giveaways * Bio * Social Media

91

Book feature * Bio * Social Media

111

Interview * Social Media

56 76

Interview * Bio * Social Media

Book feature * Bio * Social Media

Contents

Feature authors 115

Book feature * Bio * Giveaway * Social Media

Receipes 26

Yorky Beef Stew

Giveaways 117

Interview * Social Media

30

Cozy mystery bookmark swag pack * The Queen's Dance * $25.00 Amazon Gift Card * signed copy of Sparks or Flames

r e v o C e h On t

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a New York Times bestselling author, with nearly 100 novels and novellas published in mystery, romance, and fantasy. Mystery is my first love, especially historical mysteries. I write full time, and the fun thing I do as a hobby is build dollhouses and dollhouse miniatures.

Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

Definitely. I was eight years old. I loved to read, and it occurred to me that novels were someone’s make-believe written down. I saw no reason I couldn’t do that. I was twelve when I got my first copy of the Writer’s Market, and started researching publishing companies then and there. I still have that copy, and it’s interesting to see what has changed, and what hasn’t at all!

What are you currently working on?

I am working on the third book in the Kat Holloway series (Books 1 and 2 are already finished and scheduled for January and July 2018), and a book in my Captain Lacey Regency mystery series.

Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

Since I’ve written 100 plus books, this is a difficult question! I love my first book, an obscure romance called Perils of the Heart, because a) it was the first book I sold, and b) it was a fun, humorous, high-seas action-adventure.

I also love The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, a historical romance, because the character of Ian (a man with Asperger’s in 1880s England) is intriguing and endearing.

I also love the Kat Holloway novels, because Kat is courageous and resourceful and not about to bow her head in spite of her troubles or position in life. I also enjoy the Captain Lacey mysteries, because Captain Lacey is a character with a lot of depth, and it’s fun to delve into the darker side of Regency society from a male point of view.

And then there’s my Stormwalker series, a contemporary fantasy about a halfDine woman with great powers, whose boyfriend is a dragon, and who is trying to hold together a hotel she runs in the middle of the Arizona desert. It’s such fun to write. I have many other favorites, but I could talk all day. I enjoy everything I write one way or another.

What books have most influenced you as a writer?

Another tough question. My tastes are so eclectic, and I read constantly. I would say Terry Pratchett’s books taught me a lot about pacing and humor. I read David Eddings’ series a long time ago, and learned a about painting setting in simple strokes. Dick Francis and Nora Roberts are good at this too. I read a lot of mystery and action-oriented scifi and fantasy, so everything I’ve read has influenced me in the direction of mystery and action-adventure. I love to keep moving.

What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

The most challenging is pacing. I love dialogue and humor, and I enjoy writing fight scenes. But keeping the story from dragging is always tough. I cut a lot of paragraphs when I revise!

Most rewarding I think is to get to the end of the first or second draft and find that they story inside me translated to words almost exactly as I wanted it. Always a great feeling!

What book is on your nightstand?

None, because I can’t read at night. If I read before I go to sleep, I dream the book all night—my obsessive brain can’t shut it off. So I read during daylight hours and ease down into nighttime with non-reading activities.

All that said—what is sitting at my table to read at lunch? Right now Polaris, the second book in Mindee Arnett’s YA sci-fi series, and I just finished Susan Spann’s Claws of the Cat, the first in her mystery series set in 16th-century Japan. I also reading book 17 of Donna Leon’s Brunetti mystery series.

What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

All kinds of things! I am writing many more historical mysteries, including more of Kat Holloway, plus romances (historical, paranormal, and contemporary) and another entry in my Stormwalker series. I write six or so books a year, so I’m always busy!

Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

I’m absolutely thrilled that the Kat Holloway mystery series is hitting the shelves in January. Kat Holloway is dear to my heart, and writing in the Victorian time period is fascinating, as is learning about life below stairs. I am not sure Kat is typical of the cooks at this time, but she is a great character. I hope readers like her as much as I do.

Historical Mystery Berkley Prime Crime Highly sought-after young cook Kat Holloway takes a position in a Mayfair mansion and finds herself immersed in the odd household of Lord Rankin. Kat is unbothered by the family’s eccentricities as long as they stay away from her kitchen, but trouble finds its way below stairs when her young Irish assistant is murdered.

Intent on discovering who killed the helpless kitchen maid, Kat turns to the ever-capable Daniel McAdam, who is certainly much more than the charming delivery man he pretends to be. Along with the assistance of Lord Rankin’s unconventional sister-in-law and a mathematical genius, Kat and Daniel discover that the household murder was the barest tip of a plot rife with danger and treason—one that’s a threat to Queen Victoria herself.

From Death Below Stairs, Book One of the Kat Holloway Below Stairs Mysteries, by Jennifer Ashley The entirety of the servants gathered at the bottom of the back stairs to watch me go, their eyes wide. The nervous footman Paul, who’d been sent to fetch Sinead, ran ahead of me and opened the door at the top of the stairs, and then took me to the master’s study on the second floor above the ground floor, in the back of the house.

Paul explained in a whisper that the study had a connecting door on one side that led to his lordship’s bedroom and a door on the other side to his wife’s bedchamber. I observed tartly that he must worry about getting them mixed up.

Paul nearly choked on a laugh, and then he fled me, rushing back downstairs as though fearing he’d be blamed for my boldness.

I set the tray, which was growing heavy, on a table in the hall outside Lord Rankin’s study and knocked on the door. When I heard the master say an abrupt, “Come,” I opened the door, lifted the tray, carried it inside, and set it on an empty table in the middle of the room.

Lord Rankin rose from behind a desk. He wasn’t very tall—he had perhaps an inch or so on me—but he was imposing. He had a commanding air that was focused on all in his path, which made one forget his height not many seconds after he fixed you with his stare. I imagined the gentlemen of both the Stock Exchange and House of Lords quaked in their boots when he stood up to speak Lord Rankin’s build was trim but not thin, that of a man who prided himself on not being slovenly but who would not disdain a good meal. He had all his hair, which was very black, and sharp brown eyes that appeared to rapidly assess all he beheld.

Those all-seeing eyes rested on me as I closed the door and returned to the coffee. I did not fancy being shut in with this man, but I did not want to distress his wife or Lady Cynthia in case my voice carried down the hall, nor did I want the staff to creep up here behind me to listen..

“Who the devil are you?” Lord Rankin began his acquaintance with me by stating. “I sent for Ellen.”

“Ellen is very busy,” I said. “Cooks’ assistants have much to do, and I could hardly spare her. I am Mrs. Holloway, your cook. As I was the only person finished with her duties, I took it upon myself to carry up your coffee.”

Lord Rankin continued to drill his steely stare into me, his seeming calm like a layer of ice on an otherwise roiling lake. He looked me up and down, taking in my dark hair that was coming unraveled and the cuffs of my frock stained from cooking. I hadn’t had time to change more than my apron, and my attempt to look morally superior was having no impression on him.

“Mrs. Holloway,” Lord Rankin said coolly. “Please fetch a second cup from the cupboard behind you.”

Not at all what I expected him to say. I started visibly, and his expression grew sour. “At once, if you please,” he snapped.

Good heavens, did he mean for me to take the coffee with him? Before I could explain that oh no, sir, I was a servant and didn’t have meals or even coffee with the master of the house, he came around the desk, took me by the elbows, and bodily turned me in the direction of the cupboard.

It was then that I saw the second man. He wore a gentleman’s suit and stood by the window, gazing out into the darkness, his back to me.

I had no more than a glimpse before Lord Rankin gave me a little shove in the small of my back, sending me stumbling toward the cupboard. I bit back a cutting reply, yanked open the gilt and glass doors of said cupboard, and extracted a cup and saucer from the coffee and tea set there.

I closed the door, resisting the urge to slam it—my employer’s rudeness wasn’t the door’s fault. In the reflection of its glass, I saw that the master’s guest had turned from the window, every line of him taut with anger.

I nearly dropped the crockery. The gentleman at the window was Daniel McAdam.

A far cry from the roughly dressed man I’d seen on the street, he wore a black broadcloth coat that fitted over his shoulders with a smoothness that spoke of expense.

His charcoal gray waistcoat complemented his coat, and a discreet watch chain led to a narrow pocket—nothing flashy or showy for Mr. McAdam. His hair had been brushed back from his forehead and tamed flat, which was one reason I hadn’t recognized him at once. Daniel’s unruly dark hair was usually a tangle rumpled by wind and work.

He appeared to be, in sum, a highly respectable gentleman of the City. He even had the haughty stance of a man who dealt with other people’s money all day long while making a hefty profit for himself at the same time.

Though I fumbled with the cup and saucer and my face must have been brilliant red, Daniel made no indication, neither with expression nor twitch of his face, that he knew me at all. He remained motionless, unflappable, simply watching while one of Lord Rankin’s staff got above herself.

I knew, however, that Daniel hadn’t needed to turn from the window. He could have kept himself hidden from me, and I’d never have been the wiser.

But his eyes bore a deep sparkle of rage—not at me, but at Lord Rankin.

He’d turned around because Lord Rankin had pushed me.

I longed to give Daniel a nod to let him know I was all right—the likes of Lord Rankin did not frighten me—but I didn’t dare. Whatever game Daniel was playing, he’d not thank me for blundering in and spoiling it.

I managed to carry the cup and its saucer to the table, deposit it, curtsy, and wait to be dismissed.

Lord Rankin waved his hand. “Go. I am not to be disturbed the remainder of the night. Tell Davis.”

I curtsied again, suddenly the most respectful servant alive. “Yes, my lord.”

I swung around, resisting the urge to glance at Daniel again, and scuttled out of the room. I made it onto the landing and hung on to the bannisters to catch my breath.

But my ordeal was not over. Lord Rankin came out behind me and seized me by the elbow. I cut off my yelp of surprise, not wanting Lady Rankin or Lady Cynthia to hear and rush out to discover Lord Rankin in a half embrace with me.

“Say nothing at all about my guest,” Lord Rankin said rapidly into my ear.

“Not a word to any of the staff, or my wife, or anyone in this household. Do you understand?”

He punctuated his question with shakes of my arm. Because Lord Rankin, as I said, was not much taller than me, I could look into his eyes, close to my own. I saw in them vast rage and also terrible fear. The fear surprised me.

What on earth could worry him so?

I was not to find out tonight. Lord Rankin shoved me toward the top step and so abruptly released me that I nearly toppled down the stairs. I caught myself on the newel post, took one step down, and turned back.

“I would never betray a confidence,” I told him coldly. “Good night, my lord.”

I turned and walked down the stairs with all the dignity I could find in myself.

I felt Lord Rankin watching me go, but when I reached the bottom of that flight and glanced up again, he had gone.

No Link

Author Bio Jennifer Ashley is the New York Times bestselling author of more than 100 novels and novellas in mystery, romance, and fantasy.

She also writes mysteries as Ashley Gardner.

Sci-Fi

Featured Author Elliott Baker

The Count of Monte Cristo meets Horatio Hornblower and Ancient Egypt in this swashbuckling epic.

For three thousand years a hatred burns. In seventeenth century France two souls incarnate, one born the child of a prosperous merchant, the other, forces his way into incarnation, determined to continue a reign of terror begun long ago.

One remembers, one does not.

Excerpt from The Sun God’s Heir: Return (Book One)

By Elliott Baker The boatswain, a large man with scars on his arms and face, walked over to stand in front of René. “Chain him to the mast.”

Their gazes met.

“Don’t look at me, boy.” He backhanded René in the face. “Look down at the deck when I talk to you. You’re some over-fed nobleman’s kid thinkin’ you make the rules. Surprised you ain’t cryin’ for your mama. You got a mama, boy?” he asked and laughed. When René didn’t answer, he hit him again. “I asked you a question, boy. Don’t try my patience, ‘cause I ain’t got none.”

“My mother died when I was born.” René studied the man’s feet to see how he moved. All the while he cataloged everything in his peripheral vision.

“Well, not to worry, you will be seeing her soon.” The boatswain turned to walk away then turned back and hit René again. His bitter laugh floated across the deck. “I just had to do that.”

Though they had chained him in a way that forced him to stand, René had enough slack to turn and see most of the ship. He was aboard an English slave ship. She was an older carrack in design with the raised forecastle. She had seen better days, though. The fact that she was still on the seas suggested either a cutthroat reputation or an experienced captain. Under the wear, the ship was surprisingly clean, her ropes and sails newly repaired and in good order. Second rate though she might be, she was seaworthy. This was a veteran crew, competent in their tasks, and not likely to make mistakes that might allow him to escape. Escape. Even if he could, where would he go in the middle of the ocean?

Do not rush fate. One thing at a time. Do what you can do.

His master’s voice echoed within his head.

He had to pick a fight and hope he survived long enough to create allies. The next time the big boatswain walked by, René laughed. “What are you findin’ so funny, boy?” The man stuck his face within inches of René’s.

The boatswain’s right leg was shorter than his left and René doubted anyone brought that fact to his attention without regret.

“You walk funny.” René called out loud and clear. There was no profit to him if he got beat up and no one knew why.

All work within the sound of René’s voice stopped. Silence reigned. René had guessed right, and now he needed to survive his insight.

The boatswain froze, disbelief written on his face. The disbelief changed to rage. “What did you say?” Spittle flew from his mouth.

Even the captain had turned to watch. René counted on the fact that Gaspard’s agent had given the captain a great deal of money along with explicit instructions that did not include throwing a dead boy overboard. What he could not know was how close to dead the agent considered acceptable.

“I said you walk funny,” René said— louder this time, so there was no mistake in his words.

“Do you know what a cat is, boy?” The veins in the man’s neck pulsed. His eyes were shot red with blood.

“A small animal?” René asked.

There was a laugh from the men standing around the mast. The boatswain’s gaze turned like a snake seeking prey. The laugh died. Only the sea continued to speak. In the presence of death, the men remained silent.

“You, James, bring me the cat. I don’t think this boy has ever seen a real one.

Your education has been sadly incomplete, boy. You’ll be thankin’ me for this. I promise you.” The man’s voice was a rough whisper.

“Gob, there’s no need to add harm to the kid. ’Twill find him soon enough,” said James.

“Bring me the damn cat, Bailey.”

James walked over and handed the boatswain the cat-o-nine- tails. He caught René’s eye and shook his head. The cat had nine sinuous thongs of bloodencrusted leather dangling from a well-worn wooden handle.

“This here’s a cat, boy. As you can see, it ain’t no small animal. Now, there is a skill and a talent to usin’ a cat, both of which I am proud to say I have. You see, you need to take care the thongs don’t get all stuck together with blood and skin, which they’re wont to do. If that happens, the cat’ll take yer organs right out, and that’s always a bad thing. So you need to run your fingers between the thongs every couple of strokes, to keep ’em separate. I gotta tell you— as much pride as I take in usin’ the cat, sometimes I lose track. I try to keep count, but before I know it, I plumb forgot to clean the damn thing. I surely hope that don’t happen today.”

“I also have a skill and a talent, and I will kill you with it,” René said in a low voice.

The man hesitated, confusion written across his face. He laughed a quick bark followed by an angry shake of his head.

“Pay attention, boy.” He raised the whip before René’s face, separated the thongs of the cat, and petted it in a sensual way. “Turn him around, and chain him up. You there, strip off his shirt.”

A stroke cracked against René’s back, sending blood and skin flying. “It usually takes me ten or twenty strokes to get warmed up, so don’t get too excited yet.”

You have my attention now.

René centered himself and forced down his awareness of the pain. He counted on his estimation of the captain and Gaspard’s instructions. If he was wrong, he would be too hurt to try anything.

“Two.” The whip cracked and pain sang along the bloody stripe down his back. René refused to cry out. He needed the respect of these men if he was to survive.

“Three.”

Crack.

Blood trickled down the back of his legs. Time wavered, and he faded in and out.

“Ten.” Crack.

The force of the cat drove him into the mast.

“Enough, Boatswain.” The master of the vessel had a stern voice long accustomed to command.

“But Cap’n, I ain’t nearly finished. I was just gettin’ warmed up.” The boatswain’s voice was thick with frustration.

“Part of our bonus is to deliver this boy alive to his fate. I do not intend to lose money to satisfy your pleasure, sir.” The captain was a tall, somber man with sharp eyes. He did not seem like the type of man to brook dissent. He called out to the crew, “Do any of you wish to donate your share to the boatswain’s pride?”

A chorus of denials rang out, along with a few variations on “leave the boy be.”

As the men dispersed one of them muttered, “That is one tough kid. Never seen a man take ten without makin’ a sound.”

“Mister Bailey, unchain the boy and see to his wounds. He needs to be alive and aware in order for us to meet our commission.” The captain turned back to his work.

The boatswain stood there seething. His hand twitched. Droplets of blood jumped from the sodden leather to land on the deck. He leaned close enough for René to smell his foul breath. “We have time yet, boy. You and I still have business before the sharks get ya.”

René’s eyes met those of the wielder of the cat. “I have made you a promise, sir, and I always keep my promises.”

The man was mute in response.

Author Bio

Award winning novelist and international playwright Elliott B. Baker grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. Having bumped into many different experiences in this lifetime, from taking a water ballet class in college to satisfy a P.E. requirement to shoveling chicken manure on a large farm, he still ranks the water ballet class as one of his best life choices so far. With four musicals and one play published and produced throughout the United States, in New Zealand, Portugal, England, and Canada, Elliott is pleased to offer The Sun God’s Heir trilogy. A member of the Authors Guild and the Dramatists Guild, Elliott lives in New Hampshire with his wife Sally Ann.

Guest Author Jennifer Macaire

Since this is a writer's mag and I write romance, I thought I'd take some time and write something useful for new writers of romance. (Or at least I'd try - you never know what can be useful as everyone has a different approach to writing.)

Anyhow...I was chatting the other day with a talented new writer and she made a confession - she has trouble writing love scenes. And then, while bloghopping, I saw two other authors saying the same thing. One said she made them too jerky, and the other said she didn't know which words to choose without either offending readers or offending herself.

That got me thinking back to my beginnings at writing love scenes. The thing that held me back was thinking "My mother is going to read this." That would be enough to paralyze anyone. And worse, "Maybe my Dad will read it!" (Well, extremely doubtful - men read books about World War One and car racing, not Jack the Stripper. But I had to get over that, so I did. And I did it by first sketching out the scene, and then going back to add the details. I started to work like that, and because it worked so well for me, I have continued to use that technique.

It goes something like this: I'm writing the book, and I get to a place where there has to be a love scene, so I'll write, (the names have been changed to protect the innocent) Zach shut the door behind him. Dora spun around at the sound. She hadn't expected him to follow her. She took a step back and hit the bed. Off-balance, she tripped and would have fallen but Zach caught her. (I ad some dialogue here, but it's just a rough draft.) His touch sent waves of heat through her. (Now I'll describe the physical things they have to do.) Dora's fingers trembled as she undid the buttons on her blouse. (Now, check to make sure your character is wearing the same clothes in the beginning, middle, and end of a scene; if that morning she pulls a sweater over her head, she had better not unzip her sweater when she takes it off, and then button it when she gets dressed again! - and I've see male characters unzip their pants and then button them up after, which always intrigues me and makes me wonder if the characters haven't switched pants...)

Dora took off her clothes (I'll go back and fill that in later) Zach took off his clothes (idem - depending on what mood I want - did he tear them off? Slowly push his jeans off his hips? etc.) And then the physical act - Who's on top...etc.

Dora stretched out on her back (alright, she's being a passive lover this time Zach - get to work...) Zach looked at her (time for some visuals here – description, and some dialogue) and then knelt on the bed.

Try to imagine this as a movie scene and picture it as you go - don't have her lying down, him kneeling over her, and then suddenly have her sitting up and running her hands over his chest. For one thing, she'd whack him in the chin with her head! Remember who is where, and where arms and legs, and especially hands are – it's not that important until Dora is running her fingers through his hair and at the same time, running her hands over his muscular thighs!

Once the characters have pretty much finished what they are doing, I move on to the next scene to keep the story moving forward. Let's imagine they need to see a Zach's mother about organizing their wedding, and suddenly they realize they are late: Zach looked at his watch and swore (A cliché, sorry, lol) Dora sat up and pulled her blouse back on, buttoning it up as quickly as she could. She didn't notice she'd buttoned it wrong...

Then, maybe a day or two later, I'll go back and polish the scene. I'll add the details that make the mood. You have to use the five senses, so there's touch, sight, smell, hearing, and taste. Don't forget any of them. The lighting, the feel of the sheets, the scent of Dora's perfume, the taste of Zach's lips...And then I'll go back a third time and see what I can add to make it even more sensual or romantic.

That is one way to make a love scene less intimidating and more technical. If you can look at it as a director looks at a scene through a camera, and then come back to it like an artist touching up a painting, then I think it will be easier to write the scenes that give you trouble. At any rate, I hope this helps!

Jennifer Macaire is an incurable romantic who writes books for all ages. Evernight press has published her books “Jack the Stripper”, “Murder and Mayhem”, “Welcome to Paradise”, and for young adults, there is the Horse Passages series!

Jack the Stripper

Murder and Mayhem

Welcome to Paradise

Recipes Nicole E. Kelleher

The weather in Virginia is a rollercoaster of a ride, especially in the winter. The temperatures can hover in the mid-seventies, then plummet to below freezing the next day. Needless to say, our home is always stocked with as many cold remedies as possible.

Happily, the best remedies come in the form of comfort food, and my little cookbook is bursting at the seams. From homemade chicken soup to four-cheese lasagna, I stuff my husband and teenage boys with my personal brand of preventative medicine—lemon zest for the chicken soup, garlic cloves in the lasagna, and raw honey in just about everything else.

One of my favorite recipes comes from my mom. She called it Yorky Beef Stew, but I believe it’s a variation on the delicious English popovers.

The first thing that you may have noticed is that the filling looks nothing like beef stew.

That’s because it’s chicken. No matter the variety, we still call it Yorky Beef. Sort of like the “green cabinet” that sits in our living room—a small chest of drawers that was passed down from my grandparents. The green cabinet has been painted white, cream, lavender, green, antique green, and lavender again. When the piece came to me, I stripped it back down to the original wood finish; but it’ll always be the green cabinet.

Here’s my recipe for “Yorky Beef Stew.”

THE STEW: First, you need a pot of stew—about 3 to 5 cups worth. My mom once told me that I could use Dinty Moore, though I could never bring myself to buy it. Instead, I make what I like to call “leftovers” stew.

I make a roux (melted butter & flour), add broth or stock, then leftover rotisserie chicken or roast turkey along with peas, chopped carrots, chopped potatoes, corn kernels, mushrooms, garlic, onion (I like shallots), salt & pepper, a bay leaf or 2, and whatever herbs -

I feel like throwing in the pot. I’ve also tossed in leftover green beans and broccoli. This might not exactly be a traditional stew—more of a pot pie filling consistency—but my family loves it.

THE CRUST: For the popover crust, you’ll need: one cup of flour one cup of milk two eggs a pinch of salt two tablespoons of butter Pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees.

Butter: Grab your standard glass pie dish, put the butter in it and set it on the warming burner to melt while the oven pre-heats. If it’s not melted when you’re ready to pour in the batter, you can always put it in the microwave. Be careful if your burner is like mine and gets things super hot.

Batter: Use a hand-mixer to blend the flour, milk, eggs, and salt. It will be runny, and that’s perfect. Scrape the sides of the bowl if needed and mix until most of the lumps are gone.

IMPORTANT STEP: Swish around the melted butter to coat the sides of your pie dish, then place your pie dish on a cookie sheet. Trust me on this. Yorky Beef Stew loves to spit butter over the sides of the dish while baking, and the cookie sheet will save your oven and your home from smelling like burned butter.

Next, set pan with pie dish on a level surface and slowly pour the batter into the center of the pie dish. If you see a ring of butter around the edge of the batter, you’ve completed this step perfectly.

Then, ladle four to five large scoops (2 to 3 cups) of stew directly into the center of the batter.

You’ll know you’ve added enough when the level of the batter is a ½ inch below the rim of the pie dish. The stew should not touch the edge of the pie dish.

Your pie dish will look like a bullseye with a narrow outer ring of butter, a 1 to 2 inch band of batter, and a center filled with stew.

[OPTIONAL: Save some of the stew in the pot—my husband wanted to make sure that I added this.]

Carefully place everything in the 425 degree oven on the center rack and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Don’t be surprised if the crust shrinks down after you take it out of the oven. Use a sharp knife to cut through the crust and scoop portions out of the pie dish with a large spoon or spatula. If your family is comprised of big eaters, and you saved some of your stew to the side, you can add it to the plate or large bowl. My boys always argue over who gets the most crust. ☺ Wishing you all a warm and healthy winter. Bon appétit!

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Click the link below to enter for a chance to win 1 of 10 cozy mystery bookmark swag packs. (Bookmarks in each swag pack will be randomly chosen by Amber - no specific requests please).

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Young Adult

Anne Montgomery

& Features

Christine Potter

Anne Montgomery The Scent of Rain tells the story of two Arizona teenagers whose fates become intertwined.

Rose flees into the mountains to escape from her abusive polygamous community where her only future is marriage to a man older than her father.

Adan, whose only wish is to be reunited with his mother, is on the run from the cruelties of the foster care system.

Are there any adults they can trust? Can they even trust each other?

Throughout The Scent of Rain compelling themes are examined including: •

How young people in extremely difficult situations will find a way to survive using their wits and instincts • The ripple effects of growing up in a cult-like community with little freedom to explore the outside world • The on-going child abuse and other problems associated with foster care

Excerpt from The Scent of Rain Trak Benally shifted the aged truck into gear, picking up speed as he hit the invisible line dividing Arizona and Utah. He glanced at the clock on the dash. He’d put in eight hours repairing a roof, sweltering in the late spring sun. Still, he couldn’t complain. He enjoyed the work, which baffled most of his friends who thought he was destined for bigger things. He’d joined up right after 9/11 and served two stints as an army medic in Afghanistan, then earned a degree in Criminal Justice from Arizona State University. But he didn’t stay in Phoenix long.

Home had beckoned, and he’d returned to Hurricane where he’d made a name for himself as the guy who could fix anything.

Unscrewing the cap of his Gatorade, he gulped down the green liquid and chased it with an equal amount of water. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand as the white Ford pickup roared down the empty road past the sign that read: Summit: 4310 Feet. Wind-sculpted cliffs rose through a dusty sky. Would he have retuned to this lonely stretch of land had his parents not needed him? His dad, in his mid-seventies at the time, struggled with heart problems. Mom, five years older, stubbornly refused to bother her only child with the fact that caring for her husband had become increasingly difficult. Trak’s best friend, Chase AllrAed, was the one who made the call, summoning him from his job in Phoenix where he’d worked in the Maricopa County court system.

Trak laughed out loud when he thought of his friend. They attended grammar school together and went on to high school, where Chase turned out to be the smartest kid in the class. He went on to become a doctor, earning an MD in pediatrics at the University of Colorado and a PhD in anatomy and physiology at UCLA. But something had drawn him back to Hurricane as well. Dr. Allred now practiced family medicine in the place he always swore he couldn’t wait to leave.

Just past the sign for Apple Valley, he saw a towering dust devil sweep along the desert floor, the twister a testament to the heat. Aside from the recent freaky storm that had left a late snow on the Vermillion Cliffs for a day, the weather in the Arizona Strip would soon be primarily high desert hot.

A shower and a walk down to the Main Street Café were all Trak could think about. His stomach rumbled, and he reached to the seat beside him to grab a handful of the peanut butter pretzels he always kept for the times he went too long between meals.

When Trak looked up, he gripped the steering wheel. There was something in the road, off to the side. Maybe a cow had broken through the wire fencing and been hit, but Trak saw no damaged cars. A cow strike at high speed would certainly disable or even total a car. He considered the possibility that a big truck might have hit the animal and just continued on, but then he saw that the lump in the road was not a cow. A bright orange line bisecting what appeared to be a backpack made him realize this was no animal.

Trak slowed to a stop by the prostrate form and jumped from the pickup, jolted by a sudden flash of memory. He was tending a soldier, unconscious and face down following an IED explosion, a young man who, when Trak turned him over, was so mutilated that only his dog tags could identify who he was.

But Trak put that memory aside and went into Army medic mode, quickly checking for a pulse and obvious signs of trauma. He noted the dirty clothes and empty water bottle still clutched in the boy’s hand, and, ominously, no obvious signs of sweating. What appeared to be a new Diamondback’s baseball cap had rolled away, exposing a thick shock of dark hair, darker even than Trak’s. But this boy did not appear to be of Native American descent, a heritage Trak claimed on his Navajo father’s side. Trak was sure the kid was Hispanic; a rarity in the towns of Colorado City and Hurricane, where most everyone was blond headed and blue eyed.

The boy was suffering from heat sickness, a dangerous situation that could quickly lead to death, so Trak gathered him in his arms and situated him on the front passenger seat. Then he grabbed the baseball cap from the dirt and pulled out his cellphone, hoping he could get a signal.

Anne Butler Montgomery has worked as a television sportscaster, newspaper and magazine writer, teacher, amateur baseball umpire, and high school football referee. Her first TV job came at WRBL-TV in Columbus, Georgia, and led to positions at WROC-TV in Rochester, New York, KTSP-TV in Phoenix, Arizona, and ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut, where she anchored the Emmy and ACE award-winning SportsCenter. She finished her on-camera broadcasting career with a two-year stint as the studio host for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns.

Montgomery was a freelance and/or staff reporter for six publications, writing sports, features, movie reviews, and archeological pieces. Her novels include: The Scent of Rain, Nothing But Echoes, and A Light in the Desert. Montgomery teaches journalism at South Mountain High School in Phoenix, is a foster mom to three sons, and is an Arizona Interscholastic Association football referee and crew chief. When she can, she indulges in her passions: rock collecting, football officiating, scuba diving, and playing her guitar.

Christine Potter

TB: Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

CP: I can’t remember ever NOT writing. I wrote poems as a really little girl, before I wrote stories, but by the time I was in junior high, I was writing fiction and verse both.

Writing has always been something I’ve done—kind of like breathing. Or eating. It’s that kind of important.

TB: What are you currently working on?

CP: I just finished a project I’ve been working on for the better part of five years called The Bean Books: Time Runs Away With Her, In Her Own Time, and What Time Is It There? They are YA paranormal fiction, time travel set mostly in the early 1970’s. I’m working on promoting the last book of the trilogy, which moves my characters into college and New Adult territory. It was just released on December 1st

by Evernight Teen, the publisher of the series. I had an idea for a fourth Bean book if there is call for one —but I also have started writing some big-girl romance under a pen name.

TB: Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

CP: I really like the new Bean Book, What Time Is It There? Even though it’s the concluding novel in a trilogy, it stands alone well, and there’s a sub-plot about friendship between a young man and woman that I think is a really important thing to be reading and writing about now. The good-friend-guy, Amp, is one of my all time favorite characters. If men and women were better friends, there would be a lot less heartbreak. Love stories are great (and What Time Is It There? totally has one), but we need pals, too. Some of my best friends have been men.

TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?

CP: For my YA work, A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle and Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maude Montgomery. I also love Montgomery’s Emily books.

Madeleine L’Engle is my north star. When I get stuck, I pull out pretty much anything she’s written.

TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

CP: Challenging? Finding enough time to do it! In a perfect world, I’d write all the time. But there are little things like living the rest of my life! The most rewarding part of writing is when I don’t feel myself typing because I’m concentrating so hard, and I’m laughing because I don’t even know where the last plot twist came from.

TB: What book is on your nightstand?

CP: I read all kinds of weird things outside of my own genre. It keeps my brain stirred up to do that. I believe in a stirred-up brain. Just finished Lincoln in the Bardo, by George Saunders, which is a mind-blowing ghost story at its heart, so it speaks to my love of the paranormal. My poet friend Maryann Corbett has a new book called Street View that I want to review because it’s great. I also read cookbooks like novels. I used to be a chef.

TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

CP: If I don’t do another Bean book, I’ll need a new series! I’m toying with a few ideas—maybe a ghost story set in contemporary time in a house that is under renovation…Ever peeled wallpaper off a room and found stuff that the people who put it up years ago wrote underneath it? I’m thinking it starts there…

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

CP: Outside of the fact that friends don’t let friends NOT leave reviews for books they’ve enjoyed? Let me quote the love interest in the Bean books, Zak, a lovely young man with silvery-blonde hair halfway down his back: “Love is the heaviest energy of all.”

Christine Potter lives in a haunted house--for real. Besides the ghosts that turned up in a recent investigation, she shares her digs with her organist/choir director husband (plus his two pipe organs) and a pair of very spoiled tom cats. She's been assured that her ghosts are harmless, just "very old spirits who don't want to leave," which is understandable. It's a comfy house.

Christine’s the author of the time traveling YA series, The Bean Books, on Evernight Teen: Time Runs Away With Her (Book One), In Her Own Time (Book Two), and What Time Is It There? (Book Three).

She has also written and published two books of poetry (Zero Degrees at First Light and Sheltering In Place), plays dulcimer and guitar, and sings choral music in her husband’s choir.

Mystery

Lena Gregory Janet Finsilver Alan Chaput

Reviews Features

Tricia L. Sanders Sandra Murphy Marilyn Levinson/ Allison Brook

Lena Gregory

Pre-order Releases Jan. 23rd

Blurb: For Florida diner owner Gia Morelli, there’s no such thing as too much breakfast —unless it kills you . . .

When Gia Morelli’s marriage falls apart, she knows it’s time to get out of New York. Her husband was a scam artist who swindled half the millionaires in town, and she doesn’t want to be there when they decide to take revenge. On the spur of the moment, she follows her best friend to a small town in Central Florida, where she braves snakes, bears, and giant spiders to open a cheery little diner called the All-Day Breakfast Café.

Owning a restaurant has been her lifelong dream, but it turns into a nightmare the morning she opens her dumpster and finds her ex-husband crammed inside. As the suspect du jour, Gia will have to scramble fast to prove her innocence before a killer orders another cup of murder . . .

Reviews: “Hold on to your plates for this fast-paced mystery that will leave you hungering for more!” —J.C. Eaton, author of the Sophie Kimball Mysteries

Lena lives in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island with her husband and three children.

When she was growing up, she spent many lazy afternoons on the beach, in the yard, anywhere she could find to curl up with a good book. She loves reading as much now as she did then, but she now enjoys the added pleasure of creating her own stories.

Janet Finsilver TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I worked in education for many years as a teacher, a program administrator, and a workshop presenter. I taught English and also worked with students who were below level in their ability to read.

I love dogs and have had a Labrador retriever, Rhodesian ridgebacks, and various rescues. Kylie (ridgeback) and Ellie (a boxer/coonhound rescue) are my current four-legged kids. Horses were a regular part of my life growing up and through college. I ride western style and did some barrel racing and gymkhana, which involved competitive games on horseback. I continue to enjoy the horse world by taking riding vacations.

I enjoy challenging myself and to that end I earned a black belt in Tae Kwan Do and became a member of the National Ski Patrol. Writing a mystery was one of my challenges. My first book was released on October 13, 2015, and I was thrilled when it made the USA TODAY Best Seller’s list. Here I am two years later working on book five!

TB: Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

I have been an avid reader all my life. After reading all the horse and dog books I could find when I was growing up, I turned to mysteries.

I devoured all of Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers, Rex Stout, Dick Francis, Helen MacInnes, Sue Grafton…and the list goes on. I began to wonder if I could be a mystery writer. I attended some conferences, and one day I mentioned to a friend that I wanted to write a mystery. Her response was, “Why don’t you just do it?” Right. Just do it.

So I picked a day to start my writing and hoped ideas would come. The day before the one I’d designated, thoughts began to trickle in. As the day progressed, they streamed in. The next day I started my book.

TB: What are you currently working on?

I’m working on book five of the Kelly Jackson mystery series. Its tentative title is Murder at the Marina. Kelly, raised on a Wyoming cattle and guest ranch, is now the manager of Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast. She is an honorary member of a group of crime-solving senior citizens known as the Silver Sentinels.

Rudy and Ivan Doblinsky, two Russian brothers with distinct differences in the physical stature, are part of the Sentinels. Book five reveals their background.

When a murdered man is found on their boat, they become suspects in the police investigation. Kelly Jackson and the Silver Sentinels go to work to get the case solved.

TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?

The books written by the list of authors I mentioned earlier such as Agatha Christie and Rex Stout. I loved the way they wove intricate plots and created memorable characters.

TB: Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

I don’t have a favorite book. However, I do have favorite scenes. I don’t want to be a “spoiler” and give them away. Here’s what I can share, which will give you an idea of what the scenes are about but leave you to discover them on your own. “The wind snatched our cries and flung them into oblivion. But not the baying of the hound. The centuries-old sound rang through the night. The hunter coming.” These are sentences from a passage in Murder at Redwood Cove. Murder at the Mansion has a couple of shocking surprises and Murder at the Fortune Teller’s Table has a twist at the end regarding one of the characters.

TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

The challenging part is carving out the time to write. There are many chores and an extensive to-do list always calling out to me. Sometimes I feel like I’m fighting my way to the computer and pushing all the voices aside that are saying, “Do me first.” I imagine putting them into a box and closing the lid.

The most rewarding is visiting my characters and Redwood Cove. I love Kelly Jackson and the Silver Sentinels. They’ve become part of my life.

Redwood Cove is based on Mendocino, which is a picturesque town on the northern California coast. It’s a joy to visit and writing about Redwood Cove keeps it close.

TB: What book is on your nightstand?

There’s no book on my nightstand. When I’m writing, I don’t read mysteries. My plot is often working through my head, and I don’t want to get distracted trying to figure out someone else’s mystery.

TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

I have a contract for a sixth book, so I’ll be back in Redwood Cove to visit Kelly and the Silver Sentinels.

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

My books are what I call a “safe” read. By that I mean there’s no graphic violence and you can trust that the main characters will return. I hope you enjoy Redwood Cove as much as I do and welcome Kelly and the Silver Sentinels into your life as friends.

Janet Finsilver is the USA TODAY best-selling author of the Kelly Jackson mystery series. Janet worked in education for many years as a teacher, a program administrator, and a workshop presenter.

She majored in English and earned a Master’s Degree in Education. She loves animals and has two dogs—Kylie and Ellie. Janet has ridden western style since she was a child and was a member of the National Ski Patrol. One of the highlights of her life was touching whales in the San Ignacio Lagoon. Murder at Redwood Cove, her debut mystery, was released on October 13, 2015. Her second book, Murder at the Mansion, became available on June 7, 2016. Murder at the Fortune Teller’s Table came out on March 14, 2017. Murder at the Mushroom Festival will be available April 2018. Janet and her husband reside in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Alan Chaput Though born to heirloom pearls, designer dresses and lush garden parties, Savannah social icon Patricia Falcon and three of her closest friends spend their days in Savannah's dark side rescuing abused women.

Patricia's darling mother, a prominent philanthropist, drops dead, and the police are baffled by her untimely death. Patricia recruits her three friends to help her investigate what she believes is murder.

"Savannah Sleuth" is a page-turning journey from Savannah's Southern wealth and grace into the hidden corners of Savannah and across two continents in a deadly pursuit of justice.

Alan Chaput writes Southern mysteries. His novels have finaled in the Daphne and the Claymore. Al lives with his wife in Coastal South Carolina. When not writing, Al can be found Shag dancing, pursuing genealogy, or interacting on social media.

Tricia L. Sanders When Cece Cavanaugh’s husband empties their joint bank account, steals her designer luggage, and runs off with a younger woman, Cece must decide whether to ask her manipulative motherin-law for a handout or get a job. Choosing the easier path, Cece lands a job cleaning a crime scene where a high school coach was murdered. When his wife is implicated—a young woman Cece practically raised—Cece finds herself mopping floors, balancing an empty checkbook, and ferreting out a killer.

Amid all this messy business, Cece bumps heads with a handsome detective. She tries to ignore her growing attraction to the detective, but he gives new meaning to the term “hot flash.”

After she stumbles onto a clue that could vindicate her friend, her elation turns to panic when she haphazardly confronts the killer.

Through the danger and romance, Cece discovers self-reliance and inner strength.

And that crime – at least, someone else’s – does pay the bills.

TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Way back when on a hot, summer day, an ordinary baby girl was born to an ordinary man and woman. They brought her home to live in an ordinary house on an ordinary street... Bored yet? Yeah, what can I tell you? I love to write, obviously. Travel and photography are next in line. If I can write, travel, and take photos while eating chocolate, I consider myself in heaven. Where do I like to travel, you ask? I went to Kenya and Tanzania this year. Countries on my bucket list are Iceland, Wales, New Zealand, Norway, Austria, Vietnam,and a slew of others. And for those who want to know EVERYTHING. I wear a size 9 1/2 shoe. But please don't tell, my feet are a tad embarrassed by the revelation.

TB: Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

I've been a book nerd my entire life. That said, I used to re-write the endings of books that ended differently than I had anticipated. If that isn't nerdy and weird, I don't know what it. My first story was published in the local paper when I was in 4th grade, so I always dreamed I'd see my books in libraries and bookstores. I even did a stint on my high school newspaper and dreamed of being a journalist, but I'm a bit of an introvert, so that kind of fizzled. Writing books is an introvert's dream job. I'm living the dream!

TB: What are you currently working on?

This interview. Then I'm off to finish the sequel to Murder is a Dirty Business, and I have a stand-alone women's travel adventure in the works.

TB: Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

Ummm, they are all my babies. I can't love one more than the other, because they all carry a part of me in them. That's like asking a mother who her favorite child is. Though, I'll share a secret, Amy is my favorite child. Okay, she's my only child. But when it comes to my books, they are all my darlings. The finished ones more so than the unfinished ones on my hard drive. And since most of my protagonists are a bit cray-cray, I'm not gonna pick one, because they all talk and who knows that they'll do to me.

TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?

Does Weekly Reader count? Highlights? I'd have to say, To Kill a Mockingbird.

The way Harper Lee turned a phrase made me re-think writing. I loved how she got into her character's heads. Each one had a unique voice. Stephen King's The Shining, kept me awake at night. When a book can continue to scare the stuffing out of you weeks and months after you read it, so much so that you turn the cover around on the bookshelf, so you can't see the title, you know it's powerful.

TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing?

Easy, breezy question. The hardest part for me is sitting down and doing it. I am a procrastinator. My absolute worst trait. If I'm working on a tough scene, I'll find myself cleaning out a closet rather than siting down and working though the scene. And I hate cleaning, so that says a lot. And the most rewarding? Having someone, I don't know, tell me they loved my novel and can't wait for the next one. It makes the time spent worthwhile and fills my heart with joy. If I can connect with a reader like that, it's like fuel in my tank.

TB: What book is on your nightstand?

I never read in bed. It kills my back. But Harlan Coben's, Don't Let Go is on my Kindle, if that counts. I don't know how I missed the release date in September. Usually I read his the day they're released, then go into a deep funk while waiting for the next one. (Harlan, if you are reading this, and I know you are. WRITE FASTER!) TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

The next will be my sequel to Murder is a Dirty Business. Cece Cavanaugh will not be quieted. She's found her mĂŠtier, and now she wants some attention.

Also my travel adventure protagonist, Annie, is nagging me to finish her story.

And Lydia from my historical has been pretty patient, but she's getting antsy to find out what happens to her. Stay tuned and see who gets the love.

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

Well, I'd love to share a million bucks. So, if anyone has a million they are willing to share, contact me. I'd be happy to take five hundred big ones off your hands. Or you can buy my books and keep your millions. Oh, and give your favorite authors some love on Amazon and Goodreads. If you love their books, write reviews and buy more books. You buy, we write!

Tricia L. Sanders writes about women with class, sass, and a touch of kickass. A former instructional designer and corporate trainer, she traded in curriculum writing for novel writing, because she hates bullet points and loves to make stuff up. And fiction is more fun than training guides and lesson plans.

When she isn’t writing, Tricia is busy crossing dreams off her bucket list. With all 50 states checked, she's concentrating on foreign lands. Safari anyone? She's an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, so don't get between her and the television when a game is on. Currently she is working on a mystery series set in the fictional town of Wickford, Missouri. Another project in the works is a women's fiction road trip adventure.

Her essays have appeared in Sasee, ByLine, The Cuivre River Anthology and Great American Outhouse Stories; The Whole Truth and Nothing Butt.

She is a proud member of The Lit Ladies, six women writing their truths into fiction.

Sandra Murphy

Character Interview with Bernice

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Well, for one thing I’m a Pink Lady at the hospital. I meet the most interesting people there. Well, except that doctor I went to. He was just rude. I mean, he looked like he was twelve years old but not nearly as cute as that Dougie Howser who was on TV. Anyway, this doctor told me that I was getting old, get used to it! Can you imagine?

Then he said I should do something I always enjoyed doing. I can’t say too much about that or I’d have to kill you. Seriously. I thought it over and decided he was right. I volunteered to help one of my patients at the hospital with a little problem he was having. It was very satisfying.

Was there a certain time in your life when you knew you wanted to be a sleuth?

I wouldn’t call myself a sleuth. That would be somebody who unravels a mystery. I think of myself more like the person who creates mystery. I see a problem, analyze the situation and then I do what needs to be done. I can’t talk about the details.

What are you currently working on?

I’m an avid bead collector. I uh, “acquired”, a huge selection recently and am sorting those on the new shelves in my craft room. My husband, Ken, and I are talking about a little trip in one of those RV things. Kind of a home on the road, you know? I think it would be fun as well as productive.

How did you come by Ozzie?

Ozzie is my little white dog. He’s mostly Westie I think. I mean, his tail isn’t and his ears, well, it’s a wonder he doesn’t pick up transmissions from outer space but otherwise, all terrier, all Westie. He was hitchhiking down a five-lane highway when he got a ride. You know how they always warn you about getting in a car with a stranger. He did. And that stranger took him to a high-kill shelter! Luckily, they thought he was a purebred Scottie so he got to stay past his expiration date.

Then, as his extension was about to run out, a woman from Scottie rescue heard about him. She said she took one look and knew he was a Scottie impersonator! She called me up and said, Bernice, you’ve got to get a dog. I said I’d like that. She said, well then, meet me halfway because I’ve found your dog for you. It was love at first sight.

Did I tell you Ozzie saved my life? It was all due to a trick he learned, called “tween.”

What book is on your nightstand?

That would be a short story collection titled From Hay to Eternity. I don’t like to brag but a couple of the stories in there tell about some of my “projects” or escapades as Ken calls them.

What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

I’m thinking I’ll tell that author more about some of the jobs I’ve pulled, um, had. It would make interesting reading and at my age, really, what are they going to do about it now?

Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

At whatever age you are, do what you enjoy. Don’t worry about what some twelve-year old pipsqueak says or what other people think. If you start acting your age, you’re just shortening your life. What I do keeps my mind sharp, I love to plan carry out the plan, make adjustments as needed.

And just a word of warning to the pipsqueak? You shouldn’t judge a person by a few little wrinkles. You never know just what it was they enjoyed the most.

You have to watch out for the quiet ones. They’re the ones who will surprise you.

Sandra Murphy lives in St. Louis, land of the blues, booze and shoes. In the shadow of the Arch lurk the tales of murder and mayhem. On a hot summer day, the smell of the brewery’s hops follow the Mighty Mississippi south, igniting imagination and bringing characters to life.

Marilyn Levinson Allison Brook TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’ve lived on Long Island most of my life. Each move, starting in Brooklyn which I left when I was fourteen, has taken me farther out on the Island. I was a Spanish teacher years ago and still enjoy conversing in that language.

I write mysteries, romantic suspense, and novels for young readers. I love to travel, watch foreign and indie films, read, eat out with my significant other, communicate with my grandkids on FaceTime, and knit, do Sudoku and crossword puzzles while watching TV in the evening.

TB: Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

I wanted to be a writer back in elementary school when I started writing short stories and essays. I even selected a pseudonym. (It wasn’t Allison Brook, but I can’t remember what it was.)

TB: What are you currently working on?

I’m plotting the third mystery in my Haunted Library series.

TB: Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

My books are all my babies, so I love them all. That said, I’ve two that are especially dear to my heart: RUFUS AND MAGIC RUN AMOK, about ten-year-old Rufus Breckenridge who discovers he has magical powers but refuses to tell his family because they’ll make him take magic lessons, and GIVING UP THE GHOST, a Long Island-set ghost mystery. Bad-boy Cameron Leeds knows that his death was no accident.

He nags Gabbie Meyerson, who rents his family cottage, until she agrees to find out who murdered him.

Even though I wrote it, I get choked up thinking about Cam’s final farewell to the woman he loves.

TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?

I imagine everything I read when I was young influenced me as a writer. I started reading novels for adults very early on. If I remember correctly, I was in second grade when my mother took A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN away from me, claiming its subject was too “adult.” I did get to finish it the following year. I loved reading series, most of which were mysteries, and I’m sure they had an impact: Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden, Judy Bolton, and Cherry Ames (she was a nurse.)

TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding.

Sometimes I’m amazed that I’ve managed to plot an entire novel—especially the mysteries and romantic suspense—so that everything comes together actionwise and emotions-wise in the end.

What I find most rewarding is hearing readers tell me they loved reading a book of mine and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

TB: What book is on your nightstand?

I read a few books at a time. Right now they are Leane Moriarty’s BIG LITTLE LIES , Amy Bloom’s WHITE HOUSES, about Lorena Hickok and Eleanor Roosevelt’s relationship, and FORTUNE IS A WOMAN by Elizabeth Adler.

TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

READ AND GONE, the second book in the Haunted Library mystery series, will be out in September, 2018.

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

I love to hear from my readers. Please write to me via my website: http://www.marilynlevinson.com You can also sign up there for my newsletter.

A former Spanish teacher, Marilyn Levinson writes mysteries, romantic suspense and novels for kids. Ghosts, witches and cats appear in many of her books. Marilyn lives on Long Island, where many of her novels take place

Marilyn

Allison

Mystery Reviews A Crime of Poison Reviewed by Amber Marr The Silver Six and Nixy are back in another murder mystery that hits a little too close to home. When Cornell Lewis, a hated former resident, returns to Lilyvale during the folk art festival the whole town goes up in arms. He claims to have turned over a new leaf but very few people are buying it. Someone seems especially put out, if his dead body is any indication. Unfortunately, a series of events leads Lilyvale's newest police detective to the the Silver Six's front door. Nixy knows that no matter what Cornell did or didn't do, her aunt and friends did not commit the murder. Now, in true Silver Six and Nixy fashion, it's time to investigate and find who really committed the horrendous act.

Paint the Town Dead is the third book in the Silver Six Crafting Mysteries and another 5 star story. I love the unique crafting back drop and the town-wide folk art festival organized and by Nixy and crew. The murder mystery was well thought out and the path to figuring out who did it was executed well. I had a sneaking suspicion who the murderer was but it wasn't solidified for me until the appropriate time.

Nixy does some typical clueless heroine things throughout the murder investigation but I did little more than shake my head at her. Nixy is a great character that has tenderness for Aunt Sherrie and the rest of the Silver Six and the author is able to convey that to the reader. Her interactions with Eric are sweet and loving and they are great together.

I'm hooked on this series; it's fast paced and engaging. The author created a world and developed characters that are entertaining and realistic. I'm from a small town and everyone knew everything about everyone else. It's what small towns do best. The foundation for a spectacular cozy mystery series has been laid and I can't wait to read how the author builds it up!! I certainly hope that the author continues with the series. The Silver Six and their sleuthing is far from being over.

Death Below Stairs Review by Babs Hightower The first book in the new Kat Holloway Victorian mysteries. Kat was a cook for Lord Rankin. When her young assistant cook is found dead in the larder she has to find out why and who this the deed.

She gets Daniel McAdam top help her find out what is going on. He enjoys Kat’s dilemmas she finds herself in. Not sure who Daniel really is but will be nice to figure it out as the series goes along.

It reminds me of Downton Abbey which I loved and this book is just as good in my opinion. You learn a great deal about what goes on in a huge house ad the food and descriptions were great.

I will be looking for book two.

I voluntarily read a copy of this book from NetGalley.

Bones to Pick Reveiw by Amber Marr

Brie Hooker, a vegan, has come home to work on Udderly Kidding Dairy Farm. The farm is owned my Lilly and Eva, her twin aunts. Her decision came after the sudden and unexpected death of one of her Aunt Lilly and Brie takes a leave of absence from her job as a sous chef to rejoin her family. When one of the farm animals digs up a human skull during the wake for Lilly, the past comes calling.

The situation surrounding the mystery involves the disappearance of Eva's ex-husband some 40-years prior. The local law enforcement already have Eva in their sights but Brie and her parents know that Eva is not capable of murder. When bodies start dropping and another excavation site and possible human bones are discovered, Brie joins the accused. The police department is bound and determined to label both Eva and Brie as murders.

Bones to Pick is an intense, edge-of-your-seat cozy mystery. The world created by Linda Lovely is spectacularly written and the images of each scene were not only vivid but easy to get immersed in as you read. The emotional content was delivered with great capacity for the reader to feel the moods, tempers, and injustices. The world and characters were written well and I felt like I was there.

Brie is an enjoyable and completely likable character. It is no wonder she has suitors vying for her attention and affection. She does a some things that made me cringe regarding events that happen to her while investigating why Eva's ex-husband ended up buried on farm property but it all worked out in the end. Her aunt Eva is a quirky but strong woman who demonstrates the ability to be independent and self-sufficient. Paint and Andy, men on complete opposite ends of the spectrum, are well-written, caring men. It will be interesting to see which way the author takes Brie's potential love-match in the next few books. I like both guys so I am not really rooting for one over the other. I would be fine with whatever direction the author takes. Well, maybe that's not true. If I were to pick, I would pick Paint but I like a little bit of bad boy in my men.

The author did a wonderful job weaving all of the themes of this book together. The murder mystery, present-day murderers, love interests, and vegan working on a dairy farm made for a spectacular tale.

The plot is solid and I didn't see the conclusion coming. Bones to Pick is a great novel that drew me in, kept me engaged, and continued to peak my curiosity from the very beginning. I can't wait to see where Linda Lovely takes Brie, Eva, and the rest of the cast in the next book.

Content information: There is mild language used in Bones to Pick.

Murder at Redwood Cove Review by Babs Hightower

Kelly Jackson, executive administrator of Resorts International, is called when an emergency arises at Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast on the beautiful California coastline. She is always troubleshooting the problem.

Bob, the manager is found dead at the bottom of a cliff. After seeing his office has been searched Kelly, knows something is up.

A group of senior citizens think their friend Bob was murdered. They are called the “Silver Sentinels�. They help Kelly as she is attacked and knows it was NO accident.

Tommy, Fred Basset Hound is adorable. You will want to pay attention to the backstory fo how Fred and Tommy came to be.

The characters and story is so fun to read and you will love the Silver Sentinels as much as I do. They will keep you on your toes.

I voluntarily read a copy of this book.

Bel, Book and Scandal Review by Amber Marr Bel, Book and Scandal is another wonderful book in Maggie McConnon's Belfast McGrath Mystery Series.

Being the head chef at Shamrock Manor, owned by her parents, Bel is always busy. She does not have much of a social life to speak of and her love life is non-existent. When potential customers come to the Manor to explore the location for an upcoming summer wedding, the couple, whose daughter is getting married in May, remember Bel from the scandal at her last place of employment.

Upon leaving the Manor, Alison accidentally leaves the newspaper behind that she had been using to track local antique stores. When Bel finds the paper she can hardly believe who is in the picture supporting an article about a local commune that was a bit north of Foster's Landing. Her long lost best friend Amy Mitchell stares out from an older photograph - and now Bel can't sit idly by not knowing whether her friend is actually still alive. Her sleuthing takes her to the place where the local commune used to be and few people in the town are happy to have the subject revisited. Some are even willing to lie to Bel about any knowledge regarding Amy. When the pieces of this mystery are finally put together correctly, prepare to be shocked by the outcome. The author does a great job in all three books building up to what we receive in Bel, Book and Scandal. Between the anguish concerning the long standing mystery surrounding Amy as well as the new revelations, the book takes the reader through a myriad of emotions, actions, characters, and scenes.

As with the previous books, Bel, Book and Scandal isn't your typical lighthearted cozy mystery. There are some light and humorous moments but overall, the book has many serious overtones. The author does a great job taking multiple story lines and weaving them together into a fantastic and cohesive book of mysteries. There are many twists and turns that take the characters and the reader on a wild journey that doesn't just involve weddings and Amy's disappearance.

I enjoyed Bel, Book and Scandal as both the traditional cozy mystery but also as a more suspenseful book. The characters have their different quirks that add to overall tone of the book and each one is well developed. The story is well-told and full of twists and turns that keeps the reader guessing.

The plot is pretty solid; I didn't read anything that didn't make sense or contradicted a previous statement or action.

I was engaged with this fast paced novel from the very beginning. I wasn't bogged down with useless or filler information about the characters, the location, or the backstories. The author did a great job with descriptions that were very vivid. The vividness allowed me to put together my own version of Shamrock Manor and the lives of those who dwell within. I look forward to going wherever the author takes us next with Bel - and I certainly hope she continues with this series.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.

Honey-Baked Homicide Review by Amber Marr Honey-Baked Homicide is the third book in Gayle Leeson's Down South CafĂŠ Mystery Series. Amy Flowers' business is doing well and she's agreed to a consignment deal to sell honey for Stuart Landon, a local beekeeper. Her customers are excited to have local honey on the menu and available for purchase at the counter. When Stuart's dead body is found in his truck by Amy one morning, she knows she has to figure out what happened. Why was he killed and what is the purpose of parking him in front of the cafe?

Amy finds out that Stuart Landon is not only a keeper of bees but a keeper of secrets, as well. He isn't who the town thinks he is, which expands the murder investigation outside of Winter Garden. There are also numerous suspects in town, too. There are property disputes, issues with pesticides, and right in the middle of everything comes a surveyor looking for natural gas deposits. As secrets get revealed, Amy knows that someone very sinister is prowling around town but can she sniff them out before anyone else dies?

As in the previous books, the murder takes place in a small town with family roots and stories that span several generations. The death occurs near the beginning of the book, giving the author a lengthy time frame to develop more of the Winter Garden, VA world and set the stage for murder and mystery solving. We are reacquainted with the key characters and introduced to many new ones.

I must confess - I didn't like this book as much as I like books 1 and 2. The pacing of the book was different, a little bit slower, than the first two books. I didn't become immersed or completely engaged in Honey-Baked Homicide like I did with the first two books in the series. This doesn't mean I hated the book by any means. I actually enjoyed it - a lot - just not as much as The Calamity Cafe or Silence of the Jams.

I enjoyed the storyline and the plot of Honey-Baked Homicide does pull the reader along on a wild tale of murder and suspense. The descriptions of the world in Winter Garden were vivid and I felt like I was right there in the middle of the town and involved in the investigation. The dialogue between all of the characters was believable and well done. I enjoyed the interactions between Amy and Ryan and like the pace the author is using to build up a potential relationship.

The book is full of suspense with twists and turns around every corner.

There are so many suspects, from within the town and from other cities, to choose from. The author does a great job disguising the murderer and the motive along with everything else related to the mystery. I recommend the Down South Cafe Mystery series and suggest you start with Book 1. You'll get to know the key players before meeting them again in Honey-Baked Homicide.

I truly hope we do get another few books in the series. Amy and her wonderful town have so much more to share with the readers.

Publisher News Berkley Prime Crime December 2017 A CRIME OF POISON by Nancy Haddock (ISBN: 9780425275740; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; December 5, 2017) COMIC SANS MURDER by Paige Shelton (ISBN: 9780425277270; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; December 5, 2017) EGG DROP DEAD by Laura Childs (ISBN: 9780425281710; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; December 5, 2017) HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SLAY by Vicki Delany (ISBN: 9780425280829; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; December 5, 2017) HONEY-BAKED HOMICIDE by Gayle Leeson (ISBN: 9781101990827; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; December 5, 2017) LIVE AND LET FLY by Clover Tate (ISBN: 9780425283554; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; December 5, 2017)

January 2018 DEATH BELOW STAIRS by Jennifer Ashley (ISBN: 9780399585517; Berkley Prime Crime Trade Paperback; January 2, 2018) DIAL M FOR MOUSSE by Laura Bradford (ISBN: 9780425281253; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; January 2, 2018) TWELVE ANGRY LIBRARIANS by Miranda James (ISBN: 9780425277775; Berkley Prime Crime Mass Market; January 2, 2018)

The Bistro comes out every other month.

The 2018 schedule March May July September November We would love to have you in the magazine. We offer interviews, features, guest post, giveaways, short stories, recipes, small ads if you want to just show off your book. We also offer reviews on your books. We still have some covers open to check avalability or if you want to be in the magazine another way please email us at Babsbookbistro @ gmail.com We would love to have you join us

Blogger News Sassy Brit

Sleuth Cafe

Sassy Brit

TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

SB: I’m married, with one child, six fish, two rats and a dog; all of which have grown out of proportion.

TB: What made you get into blogging?

SB: I first started to review my own books and products years ago, when reviewing seemed to be a new phenomena. My first review on Amazon was a Marks and Spencer Horror Anthology. I was so new to the idea of having my say publicly I think I wrote the whole review in capitals and felt very nervous pressing that send button. A few years later, still reviewing, I met a lovely lady called Evelyn from Belgium who started her own review site, called Euro-Reviews. It was at the height of this new thing called ‘Erotica’ and new publishing houses full of the stuff were popping up everywhere. So much so, it was hard to find anything else to review. And that’s what got me thinking. I instantly set up AlternativeRead.com with the idea of reviewing ‘alternative’ books. For a while, all I kept getting offered was erotica, and but eventually word spread and that changed. Way back in 2007 we even won the 1st place accolade in the Preditors and Editors Best Review Site. Which is nice.

TB: What do you like about Social Media?

SB: The clue is in the name. It’s so social! It’s fun. I get to find out all the hot topics that I’m interested in, and talk about them. Although it’s work, it doesn’t feel like it!

TB: What does an author/blogger need to do most on Social Media?

SB: Get involved! Be an active member of the community you most want to be become part of. That might sound obvious, but taking the time to make the effort to listen to what others in your favourite community are actually saying and responding to them is HUGE. If this

TB: What would you recommend for a author starting out?

SB: Most social media places, like Twitter and Instagram run on tags. Look for the tags, which relate to your specific niche and use the top ones. Twitter is good for showing you the trending topics. But there are also other ways to find these out. Googling trending topics is a great way to discover what’s going on in your circles and beyond. Even if you’re into books, and the discussion trending it not about books, you’re still socialising and getting your name out there just by being part of the conversation. But if a trending topic is about books, well, you’re already on the ball! Be there. Listen. Take part.

Of course, if you can go viral, well, that’s always a winner. Knowing how to go viral, though, is a completely different matter and never guaranteed.

TB: What types of books do you review SB: I review everything! I’m very lucky to be an Amazon Vine Reviewer, so I get to review a lot of the new debut authors books provided by large publishing houses. These also include authors from the top bestseller lists. However, I am a huge fan and advocate of indie authors, too, and with this digital age I’m so pleased to be able to be part of the self publishing community who not only have my full support, but my admiration, too. Writing is not as easy as it looks, so much goes on behind the scenes to produce the final copy you get to read, as I’m sure you’re aware. Especially when you’re doing it all yourself, or with a very small press.

TB: What types of products do you review SB: Again, anything, but like books, I don’t specialise in one type, I do however, choose only what I like the sound of, and don’t just take anything because it comes my way. I used to, but I no longer have time for that. These days I have to be more picky. I’ve received Bose entertainment centres, a phone, a computer. I’ve recently reviewed a King Sized Mattress. Smaller things include perfumes, Christmas decorations, dog and bird food. Obviously, I don’t eat the latter myself to test those. It is a question I regularly get asked.

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with the readers?

SB: I’d love your friends and readers to pop by, visit my blog and join in with our bookchat. You can find me here: http://Alternative-Read.com Plus, I also run a Goodreads group called ‘Authors Needing Reviews’ where I currently feature three books a month, with one being the ‘Book of the Month’.

Group members vote on their choice and then we read and discuss the winner as a group. January 2018 is our first month doing this together. I’d love your readers to join in. Both readers and authors are welcome, and there is a lot for all to do there. We even have our own reading challenge for 2018.

Sleuth Cafe Welcome to all our readers from Sleuth Cafe. We have consolidated our operations and are using one blog ( Babs Book Bistro ).

Please update your bookmarks. Try looking for the “Cozy” tag for post specific to you on Babs Book Bistro

Non Fiction

Alice Langholt & Review

Alice Langholt You may have heard the story of Adam and Eve. But, the biblical account leaves many questions unanswered. How did Eve entice Adam to eat that fateful fruit? What did God think about their disobedience? How did they figure out how to survive outside the garden? What did Eve think about being pregnant? What were Cain and Abel like as kids, and how did they get along with their parents? Why did Abel and Cain decide to make an offering to God, and what were God's reasons for rejecting Cain's? What happened when Cain killed Abel, and what was it like for Adam and Eve to discover what had happened?

First Family is a modern language journey through the story of Adam and Eve, told by the characters themselves, as they fill in the gaps in the story with breathtakingly real first person descriptions of growth, discoveries, angst, joy, determination, and heart. First Family is today's voice for the story behind the familiar story of Adam and Eve. Themes of love, loss, grief and faith will resonate with every reader.

You will need 30 seconds. That’s all. Use in order, or turn to a random page. Each page has a title, a benefit, and simple directions. Read it and do exactly what it says. Or, if you know that you are in the mood for a creative, emotionally uplifting, physical, or spirituallyoriented task, use the Index at the back of the book to choose one that fits your interest. Notice the benefits you experience because you took that 30 seconds just for you. Yes, you deserve it. And yes, there is more to life than just being that caregiver, and maybe also partner, business owner, student, staff member, woman, sister, and friend…all of the roles we play.

Because, no matter what, if we are not feeling worthy, balanced, and okay, we really can’t manage any of our other roles well, can we? So, take that 30 seconds. And use it for YOU. The benefits will last far longer than 30 seconds.

They might just become a wonderful little daily ritual. But, start with 30 seconds. Enjoy.

This is your time. By the way, the writing tasks have a blank page beside them for jotting your notes. So, all you need for those is a pen. If there isn’t a pen nearby, use a pencil. Or, a broken crayon. We moms have lots of those around. Or, use a partially dried-up marker, eyebrow pencil, or lip liner if that’s what’s handy. It’s ok – write in the book. Later, reading what you wrote will be part of your reflective process, showing you how you’ve grown. Feel good about this 30 second you-time. It’s an accomplishment for busy moms to take even that much for yourself. You’ll find yourself becoming more present, more patient, more loving, and happier if you do this regularly. People might even notice, and comment about the positive changes in you. But it isn’t about what they think. It’s about how you feel.

Basically, we’re frazzled people who are loaded down with an unreasonable amount of responsibility for raising little beings to hopefully be kind and productive members of society without too much emotional baggage, while maintaining the house, our work, the kids’ extracurricular and social plans, and also being a present, loving, and emotionally supportive partner, who’s able to maintain friendships and relate to our parents, sisters, and anyone else who is vying for our attention. Take a 30 second Moment for Mom. It’s your turn.

You will need 30 seconds. That’s all. Start at the beginning, or turn to a random page. Each page has a title, a benefit, and simple directions. Read and complete the task on the page. Or, if you know that you are in the mood for a communication-enhancing, self-reflective, or time-together-oriented task, use the Index at the back of the book to choose one that fits your interest. Doing the tasks in this book will give you and your partner a chance to learn about each other, grow closer, express appreciation, have better communication, and value each other in new and meaningful ways. People are busy. Working on the relationship can take a back seat to a full schedule. This book will help you strengthen your bond in just 30 seconds, whenever you want. And, it works.

These 30 second tasks will bring about benefits which last far longer. A Moment for Us will help if you use it alone to improve your part in the relationship, or if you and your partner each try the tasks inside. Feel good about this 30 second time. Just trying the tasks in this book means that you want to have a stronger relationship, even if your time is severely limited. That intention is all you need to get started. Take a 30 second Moment for Us. Let these moments help you and your partner nurture a strong, loving relationship.

A Moment for Me 365 Day Self Care Calendar for Busy People 365 FREE things you can do in 30 seconds to balance your mind, body, emotions and spirit.

A beautifully designed 365 day tearoff calendar, featuring a new 30second self care mini-task for every day!

Good for any year!

The author has a inventory and can send it out as well.

The content is inspired by astrology, numerology, Energy Medicine, yoga, Native American animal totems, spirituality, and more.

As a business person running multiple businesses, a hospice volunteer, mom of four active kids, and Ph.D student, Alice Langholt has a first-hand understanding about the challenges finding time for self-care.

Review

A Moment for Teachers Review by Babs Hightower I was surprised at home much information this book has. If you have a teacher friend or your child's teacher would love this. It doesn't matter how long they have taught there are some great activities. We know how much our kids stress us can you imagine what the teacher go through and how busy they stay?

This book will help them. I have already shared with my son's 2nd-grade teacher and she loved it.

Romance Features Reveiws

Ciana Stone Jen Gilroy Nicole Elizabeth Kelleher Matilda Janes Katerina-Ross Anna James Arabella Steedly Brita Addams Katie O’Connor Leila Snow Magali A. FrÊchette

Ciana Stone TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Sure. I'm married, with two children and four grandchildren. I live in Florida but long to move to a place that has seasons because I miss autumn and spring. I'm an artist and designer and have designed book covers for the last fifteen years, for primarily romance writers and e-publishers. I love animals of the furry kind, get the creeps over reptiles, am not too fond of frogs but adore birds. I love to read almost any genre but sure love those cowboys, country boys and western charmers.

TB: Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

Yes. When my first child went off to college and my youngest was busy being a junior in highschool and I finally had time to do things I wanted to do. I had been what my husband called a reading addict my entire life and had often wondered if I could write. That year I gave it a try and was hooked.

TB: What are you currently working on?

Right now I'm involved in a new series, Heartbreakers & Heroes. This series takes place in Cotton Creek, Texas, a fictional town I created for another series I wrote, Honky Tonk Angels. In H &H, the heroes are all military men who somehow end up in Cotton Creek. They all have pasts and some are quite tragic, but they all have something they are trying to learn to come to peace with. And they're all men who don't believe that happily ever after is real and even if it is, it isn't meant for them.

TB: Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

Oh my. That's a tough one. I think I'll go with Grady James. Grady IS my hero, the one who could steal my heart without trying. At first, he's a bit taken with himself, but not in an offensive way. He just knows he has a way with the ladies. But oh my does that man have a good heart. He's sweet and kind and oh so drool worthy. He's dangerous in more than one way and there's also something about him that's a step outside of normal which makes him really intriguing.

His story isn't just about him but about a woman who will change him forever and she's someone who has faced things most of us couldn't handle. She's strong and brave when she has to be, but so scarred and sad that she breaks my heart.

Their story is a reminder of how the power of love can bring about forgiveness, healing and restore hope and happiness and I really loved writing it.

TB: What book is on your nightstand?

Actually none, but there's normally a phone and an iPad, each with a Kindle app that's chock full.

TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

On Nov. 20th I am releasing book two in my Heartbreakers & Heroes series, Mason James. I'm hoping everyone will enjoy this one. I really fell in love with Mason, but the Mason HAZ MOVES. The man can dance and oh my don't we love a man who can dance?

In January the third book, Jasper Jacks will release and it's a darker tale. Jasper is a man suffering from PTSD and when he's assigned to a rehab that has opened in Cotton Creek, he has no choice but to go. All he wants is to get better and get back to his unit. What he doesn't count on is falling for the doctor, or finding out that he's not the only ones with demons.

TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

Hmm, that's a hard question to answer. I suppose the books that influenced me the most are the ones that touched something inside me. Of Mice and Men. Oh god, I could "hear" George and Lennie, and the feelings between them were so pure and so strong. That book undid me. I cried for two hours and couldn't think about it for a long time without crying. It was a love story that I had never imagined and the tragedy of it was so powerful that I will never forget it. The Horse Whisperer did that to me as well. I cried for an hour over that damn book.

The most challenging part of writing is finding that moment when you can turn everything off and allow yourself to live in the world you've created. Maybe it's because I am an artist that I "see" my stories in my head. I watch my characters, sit beside them, see what they see, feel the air they feel and smell what they smell. I live with them and in order to do that, I have to step away from my own world, which, as we all know, is sometimes a challenge because - you know -life happens.

The most rewarding is when a reader contacts me and says "That was the best book. I so loved it." I love sharing my worlds and the people in it and when others love it as much as I do, I feel that it we're connected by the experience and that's such a wonderful feeling.

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

I'd like to say thank you. To everyone who has shared my worlds, walked with me through a tale, laughed or cried or gotten pissed off -- thank you. I know how precious reading dollars, and reading time is, and I am honored and grateful that you spend yours with me. I never forget that it's the readers who make it possible for me to keep doing what I love. They give me the greatest gift of all and I hope I can repay that in part with stories they enjoy.

EXCERPT from GRADY JUDD “Sixty-five on pump three.” Grady busily peeled cash from his wallet as he stopped at the checkout counter of the gas station just outside the town limits.

Had he paid attention, he might have chosen to wait until he reached the other side of town before gassing up. If he had, he would have avoided the slap that had him grabbing the hand that delivered it hard enough to almost jerk the woman across the counter as she snarked at him.

“How dare you show your face here, Grady Judd. After all those lies you told me? I should call the law on your sorry ass.”

“I−uh, hey there, sugar.” As was his habit, he kept his tone personable despite the annoyance that scratched at his attitude. “I don’t see any need to call the law. If I recall, I said I’d be seeing you and, well, here I am. So how you been, sweetie?”

The young woman screamed. Literally screamed and then shouted. “I hate you! Get out! I mean it, get the hell out!”

“Can I pay for my gas first?” This wasn’t the first time Grady had been yelled at by a woman, so he wasn’t all that rattled by it, although it did grate at him that he hadn’t sensed the slap coming. Or recognized the woman behind the counter. Hell, he still couldn’t bring her name to mind. Candy, Clarise?

Cathy, Chloe? Damn.

“What in Sam Hill’s going on out here?” A rotund man with a severe combover stomped out of the back office. “Kacey! Girl, I could hear you caterwauling all the way in—Grady Judd? Well, cut me off and call me shorty. How the hell are you?”

Grady smiled at Roscoe Cole and extended his hand. “Hey there, Roscoe.

Good to see you, buddy. How’s Mrs. Edna and the kids?”

“Edna’s same as always. Round as a melon and twice as sweet and the kids are good. Robbie got that job with the trucking company and drives the long hauls. His wife and two young’uns are renting that little house we bought over behind the Baptist church. Edna likes havin’ em close. Our youngest, Edwina, moved to Houston. She’s working as one of them flight attendants and having a high old time flying all over.”

“Well, I’m glad your family’s all doing well, Roscoe. And I apologize about the fracas. I’ll just pay for my gas and slide on out of your way.”

Roscoe looked at Kacey. “You act like you got some sense, girl, or get another job. Now take the man’s money and wish him a good day.”

Grady heard Kacey’s mumble as she snatched the money from his hand. “I’ll take his damn money, but it’ll be a cold fucking day in hell when I wish him a good anything.”

At the same time Roscoe was asking, “So, you planning on staying around for a while this time, Grady?”

“Don’t know.” Grady could be honest with that much of a reply. He had no idea how long he’d be here. He wouldn’t mind a couple of months of down time, but that wasn’t up to him, so he’d take what was given and make the best of it. “Anything new happen since I was last here?”

“That was when?” Roscoe asked.

“I was here for a couple of weeks after the holidays at the first of the year.”

“Yeah, that’s right. I remember you stopping by with that nice rocker for the missus. She sure loves that, by the way.”

“Thanks to Riley Morgan. He made it for me and it wasn’t getting used and I remembered that your daughter-in-law was pregnant and figured Edna would like it for rocking that grandbaby.”

“That she does. It was mighty kind of you.” Roscoe took hold of Grady’s arm and led him away from the counter and outside.

“Figured it best to get away from those big ears inside. You know how some of these gals like their gossip. I wanted to thank you for helping my son out.

He told me you put in a word with the trucking company and it went a long way to helping him land that job.”

“Rob’s a good man, he deserves a chance,” Grady said and meant it. “It was the least I could do.”

“But giving him that loan was above and beyond, Grady. I don’t know how they could’ve weathered it until he got to collecting a regular check if it hadn’t been for that. We’re in your debt.”

“It’s what friends do, Roscoe, so no thanks needed.”

“Well, we’ll be paying you back every dime, Grady and that’s the God’s honest truth.”

“I never doubted. Listen, as much as I’d like to hang around and catch up, I need to head on to the ranch. I’m eager to see how that new man I hired is doing.”

“Well, he’s a damn hard worker, that’s for sure. Keeps to himself and no one hardly ever sees him in town unless it’s to pick up supplies or staples. He’s a quiet one, too.”

“Yeah, he is. Well, it’s good to see you and I’ll stop by soon and pay my respects to Edna, if that’s okay.”

“You do that, Grady. It’d make us both real happy. Have a good day.”

“You too, buddy.” Grady shook Roscoe’s hand and returned to his truck.

Once he was on the road again, headed for home, he thought about Roscoe and his family. They were good people. If Grady had a family, he’d not mind at all if they were like the Coles. But that wasn’t in the cards for him. His kin were all gone.

To keep from thinking about that, he considered the woman who worked at

Roscoe’s place. Kacey. He remembered her now. She was divorced and in the market for husband number two. Or was that three?

They’d had a bit of fun for about a week, then she started showing up unannounced and uninvited at the ranch. That tore it for Grady and he politely invited her to leave, told her he was headed out of town and maybe he’d see her when he came back. He hadn’t, as she accused, lied to her.

But he supposed he hadn’t been entirely honest either. When he left, he never gave her another thought and probably wouldn’t have if he hadn’t run into her.

But that was the way of things in his life. He didn’t get attached, never made commitments, and never ever asked a woman to wait for him because he knew without any doubt that whenever it was he came home, he wouldn’t be walking back into her arms. He wasn’t a happily-ever-after kind of man.

His brand of forever wasn’t something a person aspired to achieve. Not by a long shot.

Jen Gilroy Best Book of the Month Romance A heartwarming small-town romance that will make you believe in love and second chances.

She has a million reasons to leave.

Can he give her the one she needs to stay?

Cat McGuire's return to Firefly Lake is turning into much more than she bargained for. Sure, she missed the crisp pine-scented air and the comfort of having her family around her. But being home makes her feel less like the successful single mom she is--and more like the awkward teen who never fit in. It doesn't help that hockey-pro Luc Simard is back in town, too. Luc was her childhood crush, the hometown hero who never noticed her, and yet somehow he still makes her heart skip a beat.

Luc's homecoming has been bittersweet. He's lost his wife and his career, but there's no better place to start over than Firefly Lake. Coaching the local kids' hockey team makes him feel alive again, and he thinks his life is complete--until Cat arrives. The shy girl he always wanted to protect is now the gorgeous woman who's stealing his heart and making him believe in second chances. But how can he convince Cat that Firefly Lake is where she truly belongs?

Jen Gilroy lives in a small town in Ontario, Canada. She's worked in higher education and international marketing but, after spending too much time in airports and away from her family, traded the 9-5 to write contemporary romance and women’s fiction to bring readers’ hearts home. Jen likes ice cream, diners, vintage style and all things country. Her husband is her real-life romance hero, and her teen daughter teaches her to cherish the blessings in the everyday.

The Cottage at Firefly Lake, the first book in her Firefly Lake series, was a finalist for Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart® award in 2015. It was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists’ Association Joan Hessayon Award 2017. Her new release, Back Home at Firefly Lake, was chosen as one of Amazon’s best books of December 2017.

Nicole Elizabeth Kelleher This gorgeous, sweeping historical romance will enchant the readers of Deanna Raybourn, and introduces a wildly talented new voice.

Anna was born of Chevring, a territory renowned for its valorous war horses, in the kingdom of Aurelia. But peace reigns, and her family’s fortune has dwindled. Her father brokers an alliance with the wealthy Lord Roger of Stolweg. The price: his eldest daughter and the secrets to her family’s once great power. Soon after they are wed, Roger proves himself cruel and calculating, a harsh lord who sows the seeds of fear in his people.

He has an ambitious secret, and nothing will stand in his way. Not his new bride, nor his older brother, heir to all that he covets.

But secrets have a way of getting out, and the people of Stolweg quietly bide their time, coming to love Anna for her noble bravery in standing up to her scoundrel husband. She will prove the leader they need to rise up and bring their underground resistance to flourish.

But it is Larkin, a guard of Aurelia, whose presence brings Roger’s treachery to the forefront, igniting the spark of war. Larkin comes to Stolweg to investigate Roger for treason against the realm and ends up giving all of his attention to Anna. For she not only captures his heart, she may be the only person who can stop the battle that will tear the kingdom apart.

Excerpt from Wild Lavender: After he gave her some time to think on his words, he approached her. “Have you forgotten the wager, m’lady? You have yet to name your prize. Truth be told, I am dearly sorry to have lost this match and the favor of your kiss.”

She had turned back to face him, and he gave her what he hoped was a devastating smile. More than ever, this woman intrigued him with her equal measures of strength and vulnerability. The spark from years ago had never been extinguished; it had only smoldered quietly. He’d been dreaming about her for years. Finally finding her, she exceeded his fantasies in every way.

“I make no claim, Larkin. I tricked you.” He started to protest, but she cut him off. “Under the circumstances, I forfeit my reward.”

“Still, a rematch might be in order,” he continued offhandedly. “I suppose that now only your husband will receive your favors.”

Once he spoke the words, he regretted them. His opinion of Lord Roger was that he was a cruel and arrogant man. Remembering the sneering lips and cold eyes and imagining him with Aubrianne was infuriating. She must have seen his ire, because she took a step back.

“My husband’s lips have never touched mine,” she averred. “Not even when we stood before God and were married.”

If she’d surprised him by winning the match, she stunned him with her words.

Her disgust told him everything he needed to know: hers was worse than a loveless marriage; it was one filled with hatred.

And just like that, the final piece fell into place, and his heart felt whole for the first time in his life. He doubted not that eventually he and Lady Aubrianne— Anna, as he thought of her—would come together. But first, he needed her to remember him. He could deal with Roger later; the man’s days were numbered

"So much more than a sweeping fantasy romance...Kelleher brilliantly captures the exotic and magical world of the Fenrhi women. This is the enchanting, strong, romantic, and powerful rebirth of spirit that every lost soul craves." ―Alexa Jacobs, author of Rising Ridge and The Dreamer A sweeping fantasy romance perfect for fans of Lynn Kurland and Sharon Shinn. To save a kingdom, she may have to sacrifice her heart.

Lady Claire is the brightest addition to the queen’s retinue, but she hides a secret that could change the fabric of Aurelia: she can foretell another’s fate.

This curse has only brought her sorrow, and because of it, she vows never to give her heart to anyone. But Trian, a shy Aurelian Guard, has fallen hard for Claire, and when King Godwin assigns him to escort her across the realm, he jumps at the chance. When they are thrown together, Claire discovers that Trian may be the one person who is immune to her powers, and friendship takes hold. Trian teaches her his unique way of seeing the world, and Claire tutors him in the healing arts. She realizes too late that she has done that which she promised she would never do: she falls in love.

Her greatest fear is realized when Trian is knocked down by deadly quarrels.

His assailants transport Claire far from Aurelia to the foreign lands of Nifolhad.

To return home, Claire will need to cross the most treacherous parts of the kingdom, from the merciless desert to cities where spies listen to every whisper.

She allies herself with the women from the Fenrhi Temple, who possess powers beyond Claire’s comprehension. Their customs and secrets seduce her, while plots and machinations drag her into the very heart of the battle for Nifolhad’s throne. If she ever hopes to return to those she loves, Claire must overcome the most perilous challenge of her life and embrace her curse as a

Excerpt from The Queen’s Dance: “A rogue,” she accused. “A fisher of ladies. No hook for you; instead you cast sugary words like a finely woven net, catching as many fish as possible. Before they are aware of their peril, you’ve got them neatly filleted.”

He pulled back infinitesimally, surprised yet again by her words, and glad for once that there were no witnesses. “And you, m’lady, prefer the spear to both hook and net, for your words aim to wound a man. Look about this hall.” He motioned to the assembled lords and guards.

“We are each of us a pike, willing to jump from our lakes and streams into your hands. All would gladly risk suffocation for the mere chance of breathing the very air around you.”

She stared down at her hands, and for a moment Warin thought he’d gone too far. But then she lifted her chin and laughed gaily, the sound of it tinkling through the hall, capturing the attention of all present. Each man wishing to be in Warin’s place, tête-à-tête with the loveliest addition to the Queen’s retinue—and every lady longing to be in hers, Warin reflected, with no false modesty. A pretty blush had stolen up her cheeks. He studied her.

Claire’s striking resemblance to her sister, Lady Anna of Stolweg, was misleading. Yes, they were both tall and very much alike in face and form. But Claire was as graceful as a willow, and just as delicate. She and her sister shared the same brown eyes. But where Anna’s sparked with gold, Claire’s were deep and rich, like the fur of the fisher minks that played in the estuaries near his home in Pheldhain. The sisters shared the same lovely brown shade of hair, but unlike the unruly curls of Anna, Claire’s plaits were as smooth as ropes of Barbian pearls. He flexed his hand to stop his fingers from testing this belief. Caught up in his comparisons, he smiled upon realizing that she’d been taking his measure as well.

“Lark warned me about you.”

“I can only imagine, m’lady. But pray, what did Anna recommend?”

“Caution,” Claire answered cheekily. “But she also advised that if ever I found myself…in need of a net—” he grinned at her reference “—I could find no better friend to trust than you.”

Then she smiled at him, like only Claire could.

Author of The Aurelian Guard Series, Nicole's first book, Wild Lavender, is a 2017 Golden Quill Winner for Best Fantasy Romance and a finalist in the New England Readers Choice's Contest for Historical Romance, The Kathryn Hayes "When Sparks Fly" Contest, and the Maggie Award for Excellence. Her second book, The Queen's Dance, was released in May 2017.

A graduate of the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science and Arts, Nicole E. Kelleher studied French Literature and Language, Spanish and Chinese. During this time, she attended classes at the University of Michigan’s School of Art with an emphasis on drawing, watercolor and photography.

She resides in Virginia with her children, husband, and Tully the Dog. When she is not writing or taking care of her family, she volunteers at a local organization helping the less fortunate. She encourages her friends and readers to do the same.

Matilda Janes Mer-shifters have one fated mate, and as the Crown Prince, Alaric has a duty to provide offspring. So when his mate fails to materialize, Alaric has to give up on his happily ever after and accept a bride of his father’s choosing. When his true mate shows up, all bets are off, and the deal turns deadly.

Elsie Johnston has completely lost faith in the opposite sex, a natural reaction to being betrayed by her fiancé and best friend. While honeymooning with her sister, romance and sex are the very last things on her mind.

Being hunted down and mated for life to a merman certainly wasn’t on her radar.

Can Elsie accept Alaric after one life-altering bombshell after another? Will Alaric convince Elsie that happily ever afters are possible— even very, very naughty ones?

TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I've loved reading for as long as I can remember but I guess I became obsessed/addicted when my freshman English teacher introduced me to Piers Anthony and a friend in that same class introduced me to L.J. Smith's Nightworld series. It was all up hill from there.

TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

Most challenging for me is allowing myself to be distracted when I finally have time to sit down and write, but once I get rolling I roll. The most rewarding is watching that word count rise and an idea or a couple of ideas form and morph into it's own little world.

TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

I have two more Not So Little Mermen in the works and my wolves and bears are coming to Evernight Publishing December 2017. His Forbidden Mate-Deliverance Pack is the first in a new shifter series that I'm very excited about. I also have several self published titles planned.

I'm a wife, a mother of two little cutie pies and a lover of paranormal and erotic romance.

Katerina Ross TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My first novel in English, “Tenderly Wicked”, came out a year and a half ago.

I used to write suspense books under a different pen name in Russian, but I also had this explicit M/M BDSM story on my mind—and I knew it would be hardly possible to get it officially published in my own country. So I decided to try writing it in English. It’s about an American expat in Moscow.

Therefore, in addition to enjoying some kinky stuff, my readers can get a glimpse of what living in my home city looks and feels like. Now I’m working on a paranormal M/M series “The Sons of Gomorrah”. It is set in another beautiful and sinisterly atmospheric city, Prague, and features an unhappy freelance magician and an unusual shifter. The first two parts are already out, and there will be more.

TB: Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

It seems I’ve been writing something ever since I learned how to do it :) TB: What are you currently working on?

I’m finishing a M/F spin-off from “The Sons of Gomorrah”. It will be a standalone FemDom story, moderately dark and spiced with BDSM themes.

TB: Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

At the moment, it’s “Soul Infection”, the first novella in my paranormal series. It’s a story of how magic really works. Have you ever wondered why magicians in so many fairytales and fantasy books have to learn certain spells instead of just saying their wishes aloud? I seem to have found a reason for that, and it might be rather scary :) This idea was bugging me for years, so I’m euphorically happy it finally took shape.

TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?

I’m very much interested in mythology and fairytales. I’m also very fond of Gothic novels because they evoke extreme emotions and it’s fascinating to explore how different authors achieve the same goal.

TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

I suppose the most challenging thing for me is writing in a foreign language. I’m always worried I might miss some typos. I’m a perfectionist – and it’s wearisome to be one :) But I’m highly encouraged by the feedback on my books. One of the funniest and at the same time most heartwarming comments from a reader was that she started reading my story because of its explicit contents and couldn’t stop because of the plot.

TB: What book is on your nightstand?

I’m currently leafing through a huge illustrated volume on the Middle Ages.

TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

There will be more dark secrets and angst in the next parts of “The Sons of Gomorrah”. And I’ve also got a very kinky M/M/F story on my mind.

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

Don’t be put off by difficulties when you really want something. A few years ago I wouldn’t have imagined I’d be writing books in a foreign language. It might have been easier not to bother and to follow a beaten track, but I’m very glad I chose another way. Fighting for your dreams, even it’s a fight with grammar and spelling, is worth the effort :)

Katerina Ross lives in Moscow and works as a journalist. She’s a Russian author, but as there are no M/M romance publishers in her country, she writes kinky M/M stories in English.

Anna James When Ethan Montgomery is forced to return home to run the New York City branch of Montgomery International, the last thing he expects to find is that the Board of Directors have hired forensic accountant, Rachel Sullivan, to review the bank’s records. Ethan fell for Rachel thirteen years ago, but she chose Ryan, his best friend since childhood.

Now, after Ryan’s sudden and tragic death, Rachel is alone again. Seeing her brings back feelings Ethan believed died a long time ago. Worse, giving in to those feelings threatens to expose a secret Rachel should never know, one that involves Ryan and the past and might endanger her life.

Rachel Sullivan is stunned when Ethan Montgomery suddenly returns to New York City after years away in Europe, and, heaven help her, those feelings she once had for him, before she had to marry Ryan, are back and stronger than ever. But being with Ethan is a conflict of interest and threatens to annihilate everything she’s worked toward over the last few years, including her independence and painstakingly rebuilt financial security destroyed by Ryan’s death.

Will circumstances force them to once again sacrifice their true feelings, or will Rachel and Ethan conquer the odds and give love a second chance?

Anna James writes contemporary romance novels with strong, confident heroes and heroines who conquer life’s trials and find their happily ever after.

She is a member of RWA (Romance Writers of America), CTRWA (Connecticut Romance Writers of America), and CORW (Charter Oak Romance Writers).

Anna is married to a wonderful husband who spends countless hours picking up the slack around the house so she can pursue her dream of writing, is the proud mother of five fabulous children, and a big, loveable rescue dog the entire family adores.

Although she’s lived in several locations throughout her life she now calls Connecticut home. When not writing, reading, or plotting, she can be found spending time with family and friends.

Want to learn more about Anna and her books?

Arabella Steedly * * * Grab three steamy stories in one box set. * ** Spurs and Hearts is a collection of both sweet and steamy stories, focused on lust to love, second chances, and small-town romances that bind family and friends with happy ever after endings.

All three books are standalone. I promise there are no cliffhangers! The collection is intended for adult readers 18 and up only.

Book One In Mystic Valley: Alpha Cowboy, you will first meet Jade who has been put on the spot by her father when he arranges her marriage to an older man because he no longer whats to support her. Jade goes along with the plan, but she is a BBW and is not confident her new husband will find her attractive. Clyde, her husband to be, is a recluse who lives alone on his Montana ranch.

He instantly falls for Jade, but he has a past and doesn’t believe he is the right man for her.

Book Two In Secluded Valley: Billionaire Cowboy, you’ll find Tess standing at the front door of her Colorado family ranch wondering why a sexy billionaire from New York has come to visit. When she discovers Clay is there to make a deal to purchase the ranch she is angry but can’t deny she wants him in a way no other man has had her before. Does she stand a chance even though she is inexperienced and lives with three over protective brothers? Clay’s a playboy, and is used to getting what he wants. He find’s Tess’ naïvety sexy as hell and intends to have Tess and the ranch for his own… one way or another!

Book Three In A Distant Heart, Rachel is rehearsing her high school valedictorian speech when her hunky sweetheart interrupts her. She is surprised when he kisses her but stalks off in a huff after he discovers she has decided to go to New York City before continuing on to college. Kent is furious that she plans to move away, leaves town and joins the military. Eight years later he returns to Wyoming, but he is not the same happy go lucky guy he was before. After discovering Rachel never left and stayed behind to help her ailing father run their family ranch, he decides to pay her a visit. Can Kent overcome his PTSD to give them a second chance?

Arabella enjoys entertaining her readers with stories that warm the heart as well as provide a bit of spice to heat their imaginations. She particularly enjoys writing westerns and military romance novels. Raised in the Midwest, Arabella now lives in Florida where she can be outside all year while dreaming up her stories sitting on her porch with her two dogs.

Brita Addams Writing Historical Fiction Happy New Year everyone. I'm pleased that Babs asked me to kick off 2018 for the magazine. Thank you, dear Queenie. Y'all must ask her where she got that name. :) For the readers who don't know me, I'm Brita Addams, a writer of historical fiction and historical romance. I live with my real life hero, my husband, in the heart of Cajun Country, where Mother Nature tends to forget when to change the temperature.

I'm not a native, having been born and raised in New York, but I lived in New Orleans for many years before moving to the Frog Capital of the World, Rayne, Louisiana, almost ten years ago.

My writing career started after we raised our children, and I haven't turned back. I love history so writing historicals is a natural for me. I love the research!

I'm an avid reader, but rarely venture into anything written about events later than World War II. I love historical romance and have nine published, in both gay romance and het. I cut my writing teeth on romance, reading Mary Balogh and Lisa Kleypas, among others, until I braved the keyboard with a story of my own.

Two of my books, both Regency romance, reflect my love of history. Demands of the Heart is a story of love and loss, growth and rediscovery. Haven't we all suffered great loss at the hands of our need of love? Victoria is the daughter of a profligate gambler, whose concern is more for himself than for the happiness of his oldest child. His demands steer her toward unspeakable misery and away from the one thing she needs--the demand of her heart.

Ever dig in your grandmother's attic? Curious Honey, the female lead in Her Timeless Obsession, is overwhelmed by the bounty she finds in her family's attic, especially a life-size portrait of an enigmatic officer, clad in a bright red Army uniform. The need to learn his story obsesses her, and what she discovers sets in motion events that catapult her into a time one hundred years before her own. Honey's yearning to change the past brings her face to face with a treacherous enemy.

I've been a non-professional genealogist for over twenty-five years. Uncovering family secrets became my obsession, and I discovered quite a few. Oh, my, do I have some interesting and notorious ancestors!

One of my favorite movies is The Two Worlds of Jenny Logan, staring Lindsay Wagner and Marc Singer. Jenny travels back to just after the Civil War and meets a stranger who thinks she looks like his late wife. If you get the opportunity to watch this older movie, I highly recommend it. Not only did the time travel element help inspire Her Timeless Obsession, but I loved the movie so much, I named our youngest daughter Lindsay, after Ms. Wagner.

I hope you will find these two books to your liking, as they are dear to my heart. Whenever people ask me which of my books they should read first, I recommend Demands of the Heart and Her Timeless Obsession. They are available on Amazon for $2.99 each.

~ Free Gift ~ As a gift for all Bab’s readers, I invite you to my site to download An Evening at the Starlight, a free read about how we should grasp what is before us before it’s too late. The tale is loosely based on a story from my family tree.

Again, Happy New Year. I hope you realize all your expectations for 2018.

I’ll have two new books published, a series about a family that spans from 1861 to the Jazz Age in early 20th century New Orleans. Look for Cedar Grove and After Dark Rag sometime in mid to late 2018. Follow me on social media for updates when available.

Born in a small town in upstate New York, Brita Addams has made her home in the sultry south for many years. In the Frog Capital of the World, Brita shares her home with her real-life hero—her husband. All their children are grown.

Given her love of history, Brita writes both het and gay historical romance. Many of her historicals have appeared on category bestseller lists at various online retailers.

Tarnished Gold, the first in her gay romance Tarnished series for Dreamspinner Press, was a winner in the 2013 Rainbow Awards, Historical Romance category. The book also received nominations for Best Historical and Best Book of 2013 from the readers of the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. Beloved Unmasked took Best Gay Romance and Best Gay Book in 2016.

A bit of trivia—Brita pronounces her name, Bree-ta, and not Brit-a, like the famous water filter. Brita Addams is a mash-up of her real middle name and her husband's middle name, with an additional d and s.

Readers can find more information about Brita Addams at any of the following places:

Fan Page

Katie O'Connor It should have been a one-off, but he’s stuck in her head and maybe her heart.

Alex Kirk has made some crazy decisions in her life, but arriving unannounced at Joe Brook's ranch is plain nuts. Her former tryst is a virtual stranger and he doesn’t know she’s trespassing on his land. He might think she’s a stalker, however, for another ride with this sexy cowboy, she’s willing to accommodate that risk.

She shows up in his dreams, but when will she show up in real life?

Joe has all but given up on Alex answering his call. After their all-too-brief encounter, he’s surprised she’s returned for more. She’s made an indelible impression on his body and, strangely, on his heart, too. Their first encounter was all hands in—mutual satisfaction. This time, he has plans for a submission she won’t soon forget!

Is there more to the attraction than they first thought? Will their second encounter fizzle out and burn, or will their passion be as stimulating as the first?

TB: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a Canadian girl who loves to create stories. My creations run the range from short stories to full length novels. They run from semi-sweet romances to full-blown steamy erotica. I read such a variety of genres, that I write a variety of things.

I’m a wife, mother and grandmother. I love spending my time camping with the family and cannot resist a campfire of any size.

TB: Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

I started writing when I was in university. Back then, I wrote poetry. Hideous awful poetry. At some point I migrated to romance. I cringe at the first novel I submitted. My writing has improved a lot since then. I’ve learned that stories need a plot and realistic characters.

TB: What are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on a cozy romance, a thriller and a contemporary romance series.

TB: Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

My favorite, so far, is Saving Grace. Grace is part of my Heart’s Haven series. She’s my favorite because she’s the most real to me. She’s hugely flawed as a person; loaded with resentment and insecurity and can’t make a decision over anything. She is, in a lot of ways, me. Grace has an enormous growth curve and matures considerably in the book. And her hero, Sterling?

He’s amazing and patient and such a fabulous father. He’s my book boyfriend. ♥♥♥

TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?

Fiction-wise, I learn the most from reading poorly written books. The mistakes jump right out at me and remind me of what I need to improve. Shelley Kassian’s writing evokes such powerful images that I try to emulate her way with description. I’ve read countless books on the craft of writing and each one offers a tidbit that I try to incorporate into my own work. As for favorite authors, that changes by the week. Right now, I’m loving Lexi Lawton, and I’m buried deep in cozy mysteries.

TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

The challenging part for me is writing when I’d rather be doing something like else. Those little grandbabies are irresistible. And I’m a deadline girl, if I don’t have a firm deadline imposed by someone else, like my agent, I’m lost. I can procrastinate for weeks.

The best part about writing is the creativity. Okay, the lies. I pride myself on being an honest person and writing gives me an outlet for the creative things my mind invents without having to actually say them. After all, books are just stories created from the imagination, and that’s exactly what a lie is. The difference? I’m not using my stories to hide behind or conceal facts, I’m using them to entertain people and knowing people are entertained, and occasionally educated, by my books makes me happy.

TB: What book is on your nightstand?

How do I name just one? (Laughs) I’ve got everything romances, science fiction, writing manuals, books on magic and geology. And let’s not forget the 1600 books on my Kindle. I’m somewhat of a book hoarder.

TB: What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

I’m working on book three of my Covet the Cowboy series and I have a western romance coming out in June/July of 2018.

TB: Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

As a writer, I’d be nothing without loyal readers. I love my readers and I love reviews of my books. All authors do. Even those pesky one and two-star reviews are important. (Yes, I hate them, but if they are accompanied by concrete criticism, it helps me write a better book next time.) So, thanks to everyone who reads my work and double thanks if you take the time to leave reviews. Feel free to email me your thoughts anytime. I love reader feedback.

Leila Snow “In struggling with misfortune, Lies the true proof of virtue.� - Shakespeare It is the year 1848, and a cholera outbreak has just ravaged Manchester, leaving Emma Belden an orphan, with two young siblings to care for. Left with few options, she is forced to enter the workhouse and suffer the habitual injustices commonplace to that sad institution. Her beauty and naivety a target for the unscrupulous master of the workhouse and Edward Wells, the owner of the local textile mill, Emma will be compelled to make the difficult decision between the safety of her brother and sister, and her own virtue.

Gideon, Lord de Monthaut, is instantly smitten the moment he sees Emma, despite the fact that she is on the arm of one of the most notorious blackguards in Manchester society.

Will Emma find it possible to rise above her circumstances and find love? And in the process learn the true Proof of Virtue?

There is a Goodreads giveaway that goes until January 14.

Proof of Virtue by Leila Snow. Victorian historical romance

Always an avid reader, as a child I used to hide under the bedcovers with a flashlight in order to continue devouring yet another good novel.

As an adult I realized after meeting a good friend, who is an amazing author, that I wasn't restricted to only reading a good story. I could actually TELL one! Thus my love of writing was born.

Living abroad and traveling extensively has given me a taste, feel, and lust for different places and times. Merely strolling down a cobblestone street sandwiched by ancient buildings can allow a glimpse of the ghosts of the past and inspire a fervid desire to know their stories.

I'm a sucker for a good love story and alas, hopelessly addicted to happy endings. However, I began to tire of reading the same-old, same-old historical romances, so I've tried to marry my love of a good romance with something more realistic and raw. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I've enjoyed writing them.

Magali A. Fréchette Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Magali, but I go by Mags a lot. I’m a single-mom, and have worked in some form of customer service all of my working life. I am passionate about Japanese culture, and some of my favorite stories are from mangas, animes, and Hayao Miyazaki. I grew up reading Harry Potter – started when I was eleven years old, so it felt like I started Hogwarts with them. I’ve always been passionate about animals, I love all of them.

I’m also a photo manipulation artist, and enjoy working on book covers. Despite having done this for around eleven years, I always discover new mediums, and recently started creating animated book covers, which help for marketing – quite exciting!

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on the sequel to my dark fantasy romance. The book I’ve published is part of a two-book series, but that series is part of a universe spanning into three series in total, and around 10 – 12 books in total.

Was there a certain time in your life you knew you wanted to write?

When I was twelve years old, I wrote my first story. From there, I was hooked.

Writing was there in difficult times in my life, and it’s a lifeline of sorts for me. I’d say I got serious about writing when I was fifteen. Although, at the time, I had dreams of becoming an author as a full-time career, but soon found out the hard truth every writer discovers: most authors won’t get J.K. Rowling’s story and become full-time authors with billions, let alone even thousands per year. And in a sea of millions of authors, and even more books, it’s difficult to get noticed, and sell books.

Of the books you’ve written, which one is your favorite and why?

STORM TRAVELER is my favorite because it’s the story that started the whole universe. The idea began with a girl named Malika Lorand, and from there, an entire storyline bloomed. All the books and series are interconnected, and just make for a giant story spanning through thousands of years.

What books have most influenced you as a writer?

Reading, movies, TV shows – basically, other stories, and life itself. The more I write, the better I get with words.

What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the most rewarding?

Most challenging is finding time to write. When I was in university, and after, when I was working three nights per week as a security guard, I had all the time to write. I wrote a 120,000-word manuscript in less than 3 months. Now, I work 37.50 hours per week. I get up at 6am, go to work, shove food down my throat during my 30-minute lunch break, and end work at 4pm. Go home, eat, and pretty much fall asleep an hour or so after. During that hour? My eyes are closing on their own, and I feel ill because I’m so exhausted.

It takes a toll on my mental health, and so, even when I have time, I can barely put a word in. Although, writing this right now is getting me into that writing mood, and since it’s Saturday, I’ll be able to write. The most rewarding for me is just being able to create worlds and stories – to see my book out there in the world. So far, the reviews my book has gotten are very positive (all five stars), so more than anything, I’m happy readers enjoyed it!

What book is on your nightstand?

I beta read whenever I can, so right now, I’ve got a realm gem I’m really enjoying! It’s called Bloodsucking Lawyer by Nadia Diament (@nadiadiament).

What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?

The sequel to my published book is currently with my beta reader, and we’ll be starting edits on it sometime in the future. I’m also waiting on a few more beta readers for my dark fantasy romance, STORM TRAVELER, and hopefully, four to seven more in that series, and another three in the last series of this universe.

After that, I have more stories in my mind than I thought possible, so hopefully, lots more to come from me!

Is there anything you’d like to share with your readers?

I hope if you read my book(s), you enjoy them! If you do, please consider leaving a review since those help a lot when it comes to sales, and pushing it higher up on lists – even just a sentence is fantastic!

Magali A. Fréchette writes the darker side of stories. Paranormal, dark fantasy, and mystery/thriller, but always with romance – she’s an extremist and loves both dark and cute things. All her stories are either set in Canada, or in alternate worlds (makes sense since she’s Canadian, right?). She is always writing and enjoys freelancing as a book cover designer.

Reviews Redheads Have More Fun Review by Babs Hightower Ambrosine is now the owner of Who Do Voodoo her shop in New Orleans. Her grandmother passed away recently and she inherited the shop. She is glad to be back in town.

Several old customers come in happy to see her and get potions for whatever reason. In walks Remy LaCroix, who owns an alligator farm. He needs a potion to stop the poachers. Ambrosine makes it and sends him on his way.

Will these two be friends? He sure wants to be more and she finds him handsome. They both love animals.

I loved this story. It has some laugh out moments and some slight heat between the characters. I enjoyed Dailea, Ambrosine’s assistant and friend as she put a new sound on Ambrosine's phone when a text message comes in saying…Code Red Code Red which stands for Remy in the shop. There is a dance/party and someone in the shop when they don’t need to be. A great story to grab a reader there is romance, suspense, humor and writing that is superb.

The secondary characters are a hoot and really make the story shine as well.

I can’t say enough about Sharon’s writing I love her style and the way she can make the reader fall into the book and turning the pages. Before you know it the book has ended.

I do hope we see more of these characters.

Reviews Midnight Labyrinth Review by Amber Marr Midnight Labyrinth was everything I'd hoped it would be and more. Ben and Tenzin far exceeded my expectations and when it comes to Elizabeth Hunter, my expectations are high.

Why? Because she's damn well worth it!

Everything she writes is phenomenal. Elizabeth Hunter is, by far, one of my all-time favorite authors. She has writing skills that just draw the reader in from the very beginning. When I was originally approached to review the ARC of A Hidden Fire (Elemental Mysteries, Book One) in 2011, never did I expect as much literary power to come from within the pages of a brand new author and every single book I've read from Elizabeth Hunter since then carries that same power. I have been mesmerized by her books from the very beginning.

Ben and Tenzin have moved away from Gio and Bea (who make a cameo well, their voices do) to New York. When Ben happens upon a distraught museum patron and learns that in a sequence of three paintings previously owned by her family pre-WWII, one was lost. Ben can't help but jump at the chance to help a damsel in distress. Tenzin is wary about the story surrounding the painting but she's all for the excitement involved in figuring out where the painting went. What starts out being a good deed, however, may prove to be Ben and Tenzin's undoing.

I'm a bit behind in the Elemental World (working full time and getting college degrees tends to do that to person) but I'm glad I was able to read Midnight Labyrinth. Despite that, I fell into the book headfirst, not having read the previous Legacy novellas, and I wasn't disappointed. I know I missed some key information by not being up-to-date in the series but I still left the book completely satisfied - well, not completely satisfied - I wanted more, but that's just me being greedy and has no reflection on how I actually view the book.

The book was exciting, frustrating, engaging, and down right awesome.

This novel continues the world building, character introduction & development, and back story (as deemed necessary). None of these criteria are overwhelming or lacking in detail. All of Elizabeth's novels reach deep within my emotional center and manage to trigger reactionary responses. These types of books are my favorite. The emotions don't have to always include tears; it is just the ability to invoke proper emotional responses to scenarios being played out.

Everything about Midnight Labyrinth just works. The novel is interesting and draws the reader in from the start. The writing is fluid and cohesive, never becoming wordy or confusing. The pacing of the story is excellent and isn't too fast, slow, or boring. The main and supporting characters are well written, developed at the proper speeds, and likable.

I highly recommend anything and everything from Elizabeth Hunter.

Tempted & Taken Review by Amber Marr Tempted & Taken is another 5-star edition to Rhenna Morgan's Men of Haven series. This book's hero is Knox Torren, tech extravaganza, brooder who thinks he's unworthy of love, and straight up sex on a stick. He keeps everyone but his brothers, their women, and mothers, at arms length. That all changes when a skip tracer walks into his life.

Darya Volkova made a daring escape from Russia and has been living under an assumed name trying to keep herself safe. While working as a skip tracer, Darya decides that she no longer wants to do that and takes a chance by emailing Knox. When they finally meet, sparks fly but Knox knows Darya is hiding something.

Knox spends a good portion of the book denying his deep attraction to Darya, although it's apparent to everyone around him. He's protective of her yet tries to stay away. When Knox finally gives into the attraction, he lays out the ground rules that have been his standard - love em but leave out the emotional attachment. Except, things doesn't quite work out the way they have in the past. Afraid of hurting Darya, Knox backs off. When Darya's past comes calling, he realizes that he can't live without her and does everything he can to protect her life.

This series is phenomenal. Rhenna Morgan has mad freaking skills.

Everything about her books are wonderful. I love everything about Tempted & Taken. Knox is a sexy tech genius with a less than stellar background. He uses his past as a way to keep from building anything lasting with the various women he's invited into his bed. Darya is on the run and when her ghosts catch up to her it won't be pretty. She's been provided opportunities to separate herself from her former life but she knows it's only a matter of time before things take a nasty turn. Her hope is that she can change careers into something less dangerous and Knox is the man she wants to teach her.

The character development and world building continues in each book with each main brother and their potential love interest while still making sure we get to hang out with the rest of family. The chemistry between Knox and Darya is instant, electric, and realistically written. Both characters are unique, yet are perfectly paired in the author's brotherhood world. I was drawn into the story from the very beginning and everything about it kept me engaged. The love scenes were steamy and sensual and written well. Knox and Darya compliment each other in front of the computer and between the sheets.

The plot was smooth and the entire story was perfectly paced. I was never bored or overwhelmed with details. The dialogue between everyone was realistic and conversational - it was like I was there with them. There is a conversation later in the book between Beckett and Knox that is emotional and I found myself immersed in the feelings exhibited. The events and storylines were well thought out and eventually they all came together in an explosive crescendo. Be prepared to get lost in Tempted & Taken and not find your way back out into the real world until you get to the very last word in the story!

The author did a wonderful job writing Trevor’s story and I can’t wait for the next one in the series.

Content is suitable for ages 18 +.

Evil's Unlikely Assassin Review by Amber Marr Evil's Unlikely Assassin has solidified its place in my top favorite urban fantasy novels. I devoured this book in one day and want more! Alexis Black has her entire life stripped from her by a sadistic vampire. In one fell swoop he killed her family and kidnapped her and her twin brother. She lost contact with her brother so she doesn't know if he's alive or dead. In an effort to get her human soul restored, Alexis made a deal with....an angel.

The terms of her contract to obtain her soul back include assassinating one supernatural creature per night for 50 years.

Oh, and the angel also planted the spirit of a very strong vampire "helper" in her mind she has affectionately named Eddie and saddled her with an uptight vampire-hater named Reaper.

When danger comes to town and turns a bunch of newbies and lets them reek havoc, Alexis, Reaper, and Eddie have to figure out what the ultimate goal is before too many more people end up dead. Along the way Alexis picks up additional reinforcements that include a ghost and shifter, rounding out her motley crew team as they charge their way in to stop a madman.

Alexis is a kick-ass heroine that, despite her vampire nature, still has much of her humanity. She cares about those around her including her brooding partner that would rather poke himself in the eye than be friendly to her.

Reacher plays the troubled partner to Alexis. He's complicated and closed off.

He has a hard time trying to rectify his partnership with a vampire.

The author does a wonderful job world building. I was able to visualize the scenes in my head because they were descriptive without going overboard. I really enjoyed the story and the plot. The character development is great and I felt like I was able to get to know Alexis, Reaper, Eddie, and the rest of the characters.

The book is fast-paced, action-packed, and suspenseful. There are twists and turns around every corner. I appreciate the uniqueness and originality of Evils Unlikely Assassin and can't wait to see what happens next.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of Evil's Unlikely Assassin provided by the author.

Fun & True

The Bistro needs your books Our genres for the eMagazine include Romance Paranormal Historical Young Adult Mystery We also have sub genres for the above categories as well.

Please email Babs or Amber @ Babsbookbistro@icloud.com if you would like your book reviewed. Â Each review will go in the magazine, our websites, Amazon & Goodreads unless you request differently.

We need reviewers Please email Babs or Amber @ Babsbookbistro@icloud.com if you would like to review. Romance Paranormal Historical Young Adult Mystery We also have sub genres for the above categories as well.