Mayhem and Magic

Two finishes by Pamela

2012-01-31T11:58:00.002-05:00

Ancestry

2012-01-30T09:37:00.001-05:00

In your family ancestory history have you learned of anysurprises? Tell us a little about some of the characters inm your family. Doyou have a favorite family member?

I'll tell you a little about mine that I recently learned. Mygrandmother on my mother's side (she is long dead) was married five times andnever bothered to divorce her husbands. This shocked me as when I remember herI remember a hard working woman who tithed every week and was a member of TheSeventh Day Adventist Church. She ironed everything, never actually open orused any of her birthday or Christmas Presents. Her hobby was emboridery (whichalso recently learned) she lovedto wear aprons and jewerly. Grandma Goldie wasshort very very short and to the day she died she dyed her hair auburn brown.At one point her her life she was a nurse and she just walked away fromnursing. Later she cleaned houses and beauty shops. I just never knew about thefact she never bothered to divorce her husband and yes all of her husbandsnever bothered with a divorce either. She lived in many different states and Iguess it worked for her. The family learned of this after she died. She had tohave a ceremony but she never had divorce decrees etc...upon more research itwas discovered she never divorced them. Her children were very upset (as wellthey had a right to be) some of the children were by the same father. It neveroccured to anyone that she had this secret.

Anyway she is my character her name was Goldie Dale....

Hugs,

Pam

What do you think of all the amazon freebies?

2012-01-24T12:32:00.001-05:00

Amazon has a lot of free books/stories/novellas for kindle. I personally get them a lot. I get emails that list the ones these people find. I think it is great in that I defintiely will try books I might otherwise put on that LONGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG wishlist. On the ohter hand, I am not so sure it is good for the authors. Yes - their work is out there and being reviewed (maybe) finding new exposure. If it is good I will look for other work by the author. And on ething I do is when I DO read it, I rate and do a short review on Goodreads which is some exposure. But it might be a long time before I do read it because I have so many things to read. Of course my intention is to read every single thing on my kindle AND all those paper books I own too. I know I cant do it in my lifetime as long as I keep acquiring more. yet there is so much interesting stuff out there. More and more authors every day. Of course, THAT can become overwhelming too.

So if amazon is making nothing, publishers make nothing and authors therefore make nothing. That is not good. So I feel guilt for getting the freebies. Sort of. But it doesnt stop me either.

Thoughts?

Terri

Review: Wild, Wild Death

2012-01-24T12:26:00.002-05:00

Wild Wild Death by Casey Daniels is the 8th bookin the “Pepper Martin” mystery series. Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime, January2012

Her job has been cut, she’s low on cash, and her detectivesometime- boyfriend refuses to even talk about her ability to see the dead andsolve their murders. So Pepper is most certainly down for a vacation to get herspirits up. That is, until her scruffy yet cute scientist friend Dan iskidnapped—and those responsible demand that Pepper steal the remains of ChesterGoodshot Gomez, a sharpshootin’ star performer buried at Garden View Cemetery.Goodshot’s ghost has plenty of supernatural reasons to accompany Pepper to NewMexico…and raise rowdy hell once there. But when his bones disappear and bodiesstart dropping, Pepper has one clever murderer to track—one who idea of boothill has nothing to do with Jimmy Choo.

I like Pepper. With no job to call her own and some questionsabout her personal life, Pepper heads to New Mexico when her friend Dan iskidnapped and the ransom is the bones of a dead sharpshooter whose ghosttravels with Pepper. This was a good mystery that kept me guessing throughoutmost of the story. The setting was so picturesque, I felt like I was there withPepper. I like the tone of the story and the secondary characters complementedPepper and her actions as she tries to solve the puzzle and find her friend. Ican’t believe I’ve never read any of the books in this series and now I’mespecially looking forward to the next book in this entertaining series.

Dru Ann

previously posted at dru'sbook musing

Review: Affairs of Steak

2012-01-17T10:25:00.001-05:00

Affairs of Steak by Jule Hyzy is the fifth book in the“White House Chef” mystery series. Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime, January 2012

Assigned to work with her arch nemesis, PeterEverett Sargeant, the White House sensitivity director, Ollie must find a venuefor an event to honor the secretary of state. Instead they find one of theFirst Lady’s assistants and the chief of staff, both murdered—and Ollie andPeter may have witnessed the killer making his getaway. News reportssuggest that the assistant and chief of staff were having an affair, but no oneon the staff believes the rumor. Now, with their jobs—and their lives—injeopardy, Ollie and Peter must depend on each other to learn who killed theircolleagues and why—before they become the next victims of a merciless assassinwith a secret agenda.

Ollie is back and teamed with the one person who grates her nerves,Sargeant, when their discovery leads to complications involving a waywardrelative, a top official and national security. Ollie tries to stay out of it,but she’s dragged into this case when she herself becomes a pawn in someone’sgame and she’ll have to quickly douse out the fire before she gets burned. Whata great read. This well-written and action-filled drama kept me in suspensefrom the moment I picked up the book. The author did a great job in hiding thekiller among the cast with a surprising twist in the caper. Like fine wine,this series gets better with age and I look forward to more adventures withOllie and the gang in this charmingly appealing series.

Dru

Previously posted at dru's book musing

More of Pam's Stitching

2012-01-17T10:24:00.001-05:00

Friday the 13th

2012-01-13T10:07:00.001-05:00

FRIDAY 13TH:

So farthis morning my husband's starter on his truck went out and he had to drive mycar to work. My daughter posted that her car battery died and she had to walkfrom the gym to her job at the law office in 13 degree weather. As for me wellI go to turn on the dining room light above my table that my laptop sits on andthe chain is stuck and won't budge so i'm half writing this in the dark. It'sokay because if I weren't so lazy I would unplug the laptop and move to theliving room with it.

Now I'mnot blaming all of this on Friday the 13th I'm just saying that my exhusband'sbirthday is December 13th and I should have paid attention to the number13.LOLOL No it's all good.....but I wonder if any of you have a Friday the 13thstories to share with us?

I hopeeveryone has a wonderful weekend. I have nothing special planned for theweekend but in the winter I don't get out of the house very much so this isnothing new for me.

Hugs,

Pam

Stitched by Pamela

2012-01-09T09:50:00.000-05:00

It's Monday

2012-01-09T09:44:00.001-05:00

It's Monday:

It'sMonday (yawn) but the good news is that it's a brand new week and so thepossibilties are endless. I plan to make the most of my week.

Whatwill be the best part of your week?

As areader are you reading a book you would like to share with us today? Do youhave a hobby you would like to make or finish some projects this week?

As anauthor are you close to finishing a book? Are you beginning a new book project?Writers and editors are you busy with the new year and a new crop of authors?What about our author who write series what book in the series are you writing?

Anyonejoin any new reading or writing groups online/face to face?

Howabout research and PR who is trying to get the word out and what are youresearching?

Most ofall what are you looking forward to this week? Are there any new tv shows ormovies that are airing this week that you want to see?

"Iam looking forward Special Victims this week."

Okay Iam off to have something to drink this morning.

Hugs,

Pam

Review - It Takes a Witch

2012-01-05T12:48:00.001-05:00

It Takes A Witch by Heather Blake is the first book in the new“Wishcraft” mystery series. Publisher: Obsidian, January 2012

Until three weeks ago, Darcy and Harper wereworking dead-end jobs and trying to put their troubles behind them. Then their auntVelma delivered a bombshell: They’re actually Wishcrafters—witches with thepower to grant wishes with a mere spell. Wanting a fresh start, they head totheir aunt’s magic-themed tourists town to master their newfound skills. But their magic fails them when a wannabe witch turns up dead—strangled withAunt Ve’s scarf—and Ve’s sweetheart, Sylar, is found looming over the body. Veis standing by her man, but Darcy overheard Sylar wish that the victim woulddisappear—forever. With Harper distracted by her handsome new crush, Darcy isdetermined to sleuth her way to the truth. But it’ll take more than a wish tounravel this mystery.

Having recently discovered that they are witches, Darcy and her sister movedback to the family’s homestead to join her Aunt’s business. All was going welluntil her aunt’s boyfriend was found near the strangled body of a woman hewished dead. Believing in her aunt and trusting her own instincts, Darcy triesher hand at sleuthing to expose a killer. I love this book. This magicallydelightful mix of mystery and mayhem with a dash of romance is a well-crafted,page-turning tale that left me wishing for more time in Enchanted Village, MA.This entertaining who-dun-it boasts adorable and captivating characters and aplace I would love to call home. And the ending, OMG! This is a great start tomore adventures with Darcy in this enticingly charming new series.

Dru

Previously post at dru's book musing

Guest Blogger -Alice Duncan

2012-01-03T09:22:00.001-05:00

HappyNew Year, everyone!

Onthe whole, 2011 was kinder to me that the prior several years were. I guessthat makes me an exception to the rule. But my independent editing businesspicked up, three of my books were published (along with a short story Ipublished on Kindle when I got so sick of writing the book I was writing, and decidedto stick it in a drawer and do something else).

ThenDecember happened. You know how it goes: if things are going along smoothlysomething will hit you upside the head to remind you that life isn’t a bowl ofcherries. On or about December 8, the retina in my left eyeball detached itselffrom whatever it was supposed to be attached to. I felt something funny in thateye, but thought I was being sort of hypochondriacal when I called the eye docfor an appointment. However, when I described my symptoms to the appointmentlady, she gave me an appointment for far too early on Friday morning.

Afterbeing dilated and poked and prodded and blah, blah, blah, they stuck me in a room,called a place called Eye Associates in Albuquerque, told me to pack a bag andget myself to Albuquerque instantly. As I sat in the little waiting room,waiting and worrying, I called my wonderful neighbors, Ann and Barry Lasky. Annsaid she’d be happy to drive me to Albuquerque, Barry said he’d feed my dogs,and we set out.

Unfortunately,neither Ann nor I had any idea what to expect once we got to Eye Associates.All I knew was that a doctor was waiting for me to show up (I honestly didn’trealize a detached retina was considered a medical emergency. I do now). So myeye was dilated again, again examined, Dr. Sidd’s (he’s the Roswell eye doc)diagnosis was confirmed, and I was told to show up at Presbyterian Hospital inAbq. at some ungodly hour on Saturday morning. That’s when we learned that Annwas supposed to stay with me for the entire weekend, and that we’d have to getrooms at a hotel.

Well,what the heck, y’know? I’d been making a tiny bit more money than usual inrecent months, thanks to my independent editing work, so I could actuallyafford to house us at Albuquerque’s Hotel Elegante, a wonderfully misnamedhotel at which the New Mexico Book of the Year Awards banquet was held a fewweeks earlier. So I got to spend a lot of time in the Hotel Elegante during thelast part of 2011. Ann’s husband Barry brought her some clothes on Saturday (bythe way, it’s a 400-mile round trip from Roswell to Albuquerque and backagain), and he also brought both of us our laptops, so we were able tocommunicate with the rest of the world.

Then,on Saturday, December 10, a very nice Dr. Kamalesh Ramaiya reattached my leftretina to whatever it’s supposed to be attached to, lasered another weak spotin the same eyeball, installed a gas bubble (which is supposed to dissolveabout six weeks from the date of the operation), and I’ve been a one-eyed,extremely bored person ever since. Can’t read. Can’t watch TV. Can’t drive (forthe sake of the rest of the world as well as myself). Can’t even go for walkswith the dogs. I get to lie face-down on my bed with my head in the holes of afoam-rubber pillow for the duration. If it weren’t for audiobooks, I’d betotally nuts instead of merely partially nuts, as is normal.

Theproblem is that I am unable to work. I am also unable to fulfill my obligationto the people who have won books in various contests. That, however, doesn’tmean I’ll always be incapacitated. Assoon as I can read again, I’ll send books to everybody to whom I owe books!

Thesefolks include winners of November’s contest and this month’s contest wieners,Brenda Williamson and Jacquie Seewald, who each won copies of GENTEEL SPIRITSin my December contest.

Also,anon at book9k@woway.com and KarenMayers, who were kind enough to leave comments on our Magical Christmas MysteryBook Blog Tour, out of which I had to drop precipitately when my eye done mewrong, also won books. If you two could send me your home addresses at alice@aliceduncan.net I’ll eventuallyget your books to you. Of course, you’ll need to decide which books you wantfirst. You can choose by looking at my web site: www.aliceduncan.net

Anyonewho wants to enter my January contest (I’ll be giving away two copies ofANCIENT SPIRITS, Daisy Gumm Majesty’s sixth [and perhaps last] adventure)please send your name and home address to the same e-mail address:alice@aliceduncan.net

Asfor 2012: onward and upward! Forward into the unknown! As P.G. Wodehouse wrote:the future lies ahead!

Okay,I’ll quit now. Thank you. And please do have a happy new year!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-28T15:36:00.001-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS:

I hopeall of our friends had a very merry holiday. Do you have plans for New Year'sDay? We are still in Kansas City and will come home New Year's Eve Day so NewYear's Day I will be having our usual steak, baked potato and salad. I willalso be doing laundry.LOL....

Did youget a Christmas book that you would like to read soon?

Ourdaughter went back to work today and so did our SIL so we have the kids for a full8-12 hours today. It's been years since we kept them like this so I am sure Iwill be kept on my toes with the four year old. LOL....

Didanyone catch the new movies at the theatre this past weekend?

I hopeeveryone is enjoying their holiday and will go into the new year with renewedspirits.

Hugs,

Pamela

Holiday Themed Reviews

2011-12-16T12:20:00.001-05:00

Moonlighting at the Mall by Evelyn David is the secondshort story in the “Sullivan Investigations” mystery series.

Mac Sullivan, hardboiled ex-cop and newly-minted privatedetective, goes undercover as Santa Claus to find the mall thief who isbrazenly robbing local jewelry stores. He’s got more help than he wants. Hisgirlfriend Rachel Brenner, makeup artist in a funeral home, is a veryconvincing Mrs. Claus; septuagenarian Edgar is a less-believable Elf; andWhiskey, his Irish wolfhound, steals the show as Rudolph. Moonlighting at theMall is the perfect “short story” holiday whodunnit, with your favoritecharacters from Murder Off the Books and Murder Takes the Cake. Moonlighting atthe Mall has a mystery to confound you, humor to make you laugh out loud, and aromance that doesn’t need any help from mistletoe.

Mac and his team are determined to put an end to the holidayhi-jinks by catching the robbers red-handed. This was a fun mystery caper withMac, Rachel and the ever present Whiskey that will delight you with holidaycheers.

Dru

Previously posted on dru'sbook musing

Trouble Under the Tree by Heather Webber is the sixthbook in the “Nina Quinn” mystery series.

When landscape designer Nina Quinn agreed to deck the halls ofChristmastowne, an indoor Christmas village, little did she know how dirty thejob would be. Christmastowne has been plagued by mishaps. Someone’s stealingtoy donations, cutting lines to the security system, starting fires, andpoisoning the poinsettias. Worst of all, Nina’s neighbor, Fairlee McCorkle (akaMrs. Claus) is found murdered under Christmastowne’s enormous decorated tree.The deeper Nina digs for clues to unwrap a killer, the more she discovers thatsome secrets are best left buried in the past.

Nina and the gang are back including her parents, sister, Kevinand Brickhouse and the hilarity begins as one antics after another had melaughing. This was a fun-filled, fast action tale that will tickle you funnybone as you search for clues with Nina. With amusing dialogue, lovablecharacters and the Christmas spirit, this was a jolly entertaining and fabuloustale with an ending that leaves possibilities.

Dru

Previously posted on dru'sbook musing

Facebook

2011-12-14T12:27:00.001-05:00

FACEBOOK:

I nowhave 1000 facebook friends. Of course that is wrong I can count on one hand thefriends I actually have and since I do not have 1000 fingers it's way off base.

Howevermost are authors and people involved in publishing. There are book groups and Ican't help but be alarmed that facebook refers to their updates as 'stories',no, stories are what my authors write. They also write books updates are justthat updates and while I do believe that everyone has a story that needs to betold...I think it's wrong the way facebook uses the word.

PersonallyI think my life is boring but it wasn't always boring however, I am not in anyhurry for everyone to know MY STORY aas a matter of fact I think some incidentsare better left in the past and far away from my present let alone my future.

Anywayback to facebook I like that it's free and I can keep up with everyone's day. Ilike that when my friends get on there and say "Good Morning" theymean it. I don't always read all of my emails. I really don't read group emailsall the time but I do check in with my facebook page/s everyday. I have a coupleof family members I keep up with this way and it's nice to see pictures of mygrandchildren posted.

Ofcourse as you all know ever since I quit smoking a year ago Nov 1st, I listbooks from amazon, cross stitch patterns etc...this does help me not rush outthe door to buy a pack of cigs. I feel facebook is a good thing but it can be adiversion for me and I try not to spend more than once or twice a day overthere (unless I'm posting books).....

How doyou use facebook?

Hugs,

Pamela

Question for All

2011-12-13T14:21:00.001-05:00

What does Christmas mean to you? Are keeping family traditions andif so what are some of your traditions?

Hugs,

Pamela

Review - Death, Taxes and a French Manicure

2011-12-12T09:16:00.001-05:00

Death, Taxes and a French Manicure by Diane Kelly is the first bookin the new “Death and Taxes” series.

Tax cheats, beware: The Treasury Department’sCriminal Investigations Division has a new special agent on its payroll. Arecovering tomboy with a head for numbers, Tara’s fast becoming the AnnieOakley of the IRS-kicking ass, taking social security numbers, and keeping theworld safe for honest taxpayers. Or else. Tara’s latest mission finds her inhot pursuit of ice-cream vendor Joseph “Joe Cool” Cullen. Along with frozentreats he’s selling narcotics—and failing to report his ill-gotten gains on histax returns. Over Tara’s dead body. Then there’s Michael Gryder, who appears tobe operating a Ponzi scheme…with banker Stan Shelton…whose lake house is beinglandscaped by Brett Ellington…who happens to be dating Tara. If following thatmoney trail isn’t tough enough, now Tara must face a new conundrum: Should sheinvest her trust in Brett—or put him behind bars? New love always comes at acost but justice? Priceless.

What a fun book! Tara is an IRS special investigator who enjoys going aftertax cheaters and is quite a sharp shooter, if necessary. Her latest case hasher going after two tax cheaters, one of whom, her new boyfriend may beinvolved, or is he? This page turning story will have you laughing at theantics that Tara finds herself in; enjoying her down-home style while shepursues the criminal elements and delighting in her energetic spirit that makesher a lovable character. This amusing and entertaining story was very enjoyableand I look forward to the next book in this likable series.

Previously posted at dru's book musing

Review - It's a Dunder-Bull Wide

2011-12-07T13:37:00.001-05:00

It’s a Dunder-Bull Wife by Karen Cantwell. Publisher:Karen Cantwell, December 2011

Dunder-Bull – the perfect little town bordering Barbara Marr’snot-so-polished Rustic Woods. Everything in Dunder-Bull is five-star rated,including the wives. As Barb puts it, “Dunder-Bull Wives make Stepford Wiveslook like couch potatoes.” Succumbing to the need to “measure-up,” Barb decidesto prepare a grand and luscious Christmas feast for a party of twenty. Theproblem? Barb can’t cook her way out of a turkey-roaster bag. In usual BarbaraMarr fashion, chaos ensues. Will she survive? Will her family fall victim tosalmonella food poisoning? Will Martha Stewart ridicule her publicly? ABarbara Marr Holiday short story, sure to tickle your funny bone and touch yourheart at the same time.

It’s Christmas and Barbara being Barbara gets in over her headwith the preparation for large holiday party. You can’t help but laugh at theantics that is Barbara as she scrambles to have the perfect Christmas for herfamily and friends. This was a fun and amusing read that will leave you withthe holiday spirit and a smile.

Dru

previously posted on dru'sbook musing

I Get a Thrill

2011-12-06T09:34:00.001-05:00

I GET A THRILL:

Okay I know I am strange but I can't help it I get a thrill eachyear when it comes time to pick out my yearly planner and calander. I mean it'sALMOST as good as buying cross stitch fabby and patterns or mysteries. HONESTthis is one of my big thrills of the year. (You thought author lead excitinglives) well I don't...LOL anyway I got to pick out my planner early this year.This time it was artwork by Linda Nelson an basically it's of simplier timeswhich with the year I've had appealed to me. Now I am still looking for the perfectcalander and this has to speak to me as it will be on my office wall all yearlong. Last it was a coffee calander that spoke to me and tye year before aquilting calander that spoke to me..

What speaks to you? I know a lot of people who just hang the freecalander from their bank or insurance company but if you're a nut like me speakup as I don't want to be the only acorn in the bunch of peanuts....LOL

Oh and I take that back last year my office wall calander was ofItaly the one in the kitchen was a coffe calander. Oh my I'm losing it today...anyway

I hope to find one that will fit in with my travel theme. I'm thinkFrance this year as I keep wanting to go there and have pastery Oh wow would itbe great to have an outdoor cafe calander or maybe a cross stitchcalander...writing quote a day calander oh hell I'm hopeless!!!

What about you how much thought and what types do you like?

Hugs,

Pamela

Guest Blogger - Alice Duncan

2011-12-01T09:50:00.001-05:00

Mercifulheavens, another year shot to heck! Where does the time go? The worst part isthat the older I get, the faster time flies. Doesn’t seem fair somehow.

Butthat’s neither here nor there. For some mayhemly reason, I never did see myNovember blog get posted, so I’ll recap it here.

Ispent two weeks in California! Yay! Got to see my younger daughter, my youngergrandson, and a whole bunch of friends I left behind when I moved to the wildsof Roswell, New Mexico. What’s more, I got to eat a whole bunch of good ethnicfood that Roswellians don’t get to eat unless they…well, go to California, Iguess. East Indian. Middle Eastern. Japanese. Yum. I guess all that chow willhave to hold me until the next time I get to California. That was definitely amagical trip.

DuringNovember another magical thing happened. My little novel, PECOS VALLEY REVIVAL,became a finalist in the historical novel category of the New Mexico Book ofthe Year awards. Mind you, I didn’t even know there was such a thing until MikeOrenduff, who won the award in the mystery category last year, entered my book.His book, THE POT THIEF WHO STUDIED EINSTEIN, finaled in the mystery category.Neither Mike nor I won, but a book I edited did! What’s more, it’s a reallygood book, called THE FAERIE HILLS, by Susan McDuffie, and I suggest you all goout and read it!

Asfor mayhem, I actually wasn’t bothered by much mayhem during October andNovember. The worst thing that happened to me was that my elderly wiener dog,Skipper, crossed the Rainbow Bridge. It was his time, and he was kind enough topass over at home sometime between Sunday night and Monday morning, so I didn’thave to make the painful decision to have him put to sleep, which I’d known I’dhave to do on Monday. So thanks, Skipper.

I’mnot suffering from a paucity of dogs, however. The traumatized duo I’ve beenfostering, Bella and Bam-Bam, have become permanent residents of the Duncanherd. Sigh. Sometimes I don’t think I’ll ever win this doggie game. But atleast Bella and Bam-Bam are happy.

Ifyou have time, please stop by my web site, which is all decorated forChristmas. There you can see the book I’ll be giving away in December, GENTEELSPIRITS. You can also read excerpts from the rest of my zillion and three booksthere. The URL is www.aliceduncan.net. And thank you!

On An Island

2011-11-30T08:49:00.001-05:00

ON A ISLAND:

Sometimes I have too many wonderful books to read. So much so infact that I may try to rush through a book just so I can get to run that ITHINK is greener pastures...so in order to make myself slow down I think ofmyself stranded on an island and I only had sooo many books with me. You knowthe cruise ship wreck...LOL anyway on my island I am forced to slow and downand enjoy the book I am reading. This trick actually works for me......so todayI want you to give us some of your reading tricks for stitcking with a book andenjoying the book as in not just racking up book titles so you have a hugenumber to list at the end of the year in your book journal.

Now this does not include library books that have a deadline asI have not ever figured a way around the hurry that might require a day or twobfore the book is due back to the library.

Hugs,

Pamela

Review - Death Plays Poker

2011-11-30T08:48:00.001-05:00

Death Plays Poker by Robin Spano is the second book in the “ClareVengel Undercover” mystery series. Publisher: ECW Press, October 2011

World class poker players are being strangled intheir hotel rooms, and undercover cop Clare is given her second big assignment:to pose as a poker player in a major televised tournament, befriend thesuspects, and find the killer in their midst. Her cover role? A trust fundprincess named Tiffany who thinks the poker tour is a better idea than college.Posing as Tiffany helps Clare infiltrate the tour’s inner circle, butuncovering the truth is harder than ever among people who lie for a living.Asmore players fall prey to the Poker Choker and Clare’s cover comes underattack, the stakes get even higher: should Clare fold and return to her life asa dull beat cop, or go all in and prove her worth?

What a ride! Who knew playing poker could be deadly and when a fellow copbecomes a victim, Clare goes undercover and when the stakes are high, so is thekilling. What a great story that kept me both intrigued and amused as the gameof poker played out in the background. With an interesting cast of suspectsleading the way, it was no wonder the killer’s identity escaped me throughoutmost of this page-turning and engaging mystery. Using each chapter to give us acharacter’s point of view added to the suspense of this well-played drama. Thiswas a great read and I look forward to Clare’s next undercover assignment.

Dru

Previously posted at dru's book musing

What is?

2011-11-29T09:23:00.001-05:00

What is....

What is your most important topic/rant today? Is it local, ,city or state goverment? The recipe that never turns out right for you? A bookyou read that doesn't quite leave you satisfied? How about a work relatedissue? Maybe a cleaning solution that doesn't work? Maybe it's people who can'tlet the issue go or parks a shopping cart in a handicap parking space?

Whatever your topic is tell us about it today?

My small rant is workmen who show up next door to work on ahouse (roof and inside the house) at 6:30 in the morning and well I might aswell get up and out of bed. Now the thing is they pack up and are out of hereby noon so you think GREAT one day not so bad only for it to happen again thenext morning they stay two hours and are gone again. This keeps happening to meand I am a light sleeper. Can we say grouchy? Would it kill them to wait until8:00 the duplex next door is empty!!! Anyway that is my small rant....Your turnto rant....

Hugs,

Pamela

Pets

2011-11-23T14:27:00.001-05:00

PETS:

Today it's time talk about our pets. I'll go first (VBG) I havetwo dogs. Heidi is a dream but she doesn't walk she runs. She is GermanShepherd and I have to say could never be an indoor dog. We love her and overour back fence is another dog and a tiny terrior dog they are her playmates andshe loves them. They bark and howl and have their own communication together.

Now our indoor dog is lady Mysteri and she is the my bestfriend. She loves to bark and her and Heidi often bark back and forth to oneanother. Lady Mystery loves wind and she also liked scrambled eggs. Our wholefamily adores her and I have to say she makes me a lot calmer than I was beforeI had her. We go for family walks and sometimes family car rides which is oneof her passions and the longer the better. Belly rubs by Frank will bring asmile to her face and of course feeding her (she's my fat Diva) will bring asmile. Now I know the vet will be putting her on a diet she is a corgi and 54pounds this is way too large for this type of dog. I hope she is still smilingby the end of winter because I'm sure that when the vet puts her on a specialdog food diet Heidi will hear her wail. LOL Anyway tell us your pet stories.Your pet's favorite thing to do, toys, actions etc...?

Hugs,

Pamela

An Interview with Rochelle Staab

2011-11-22T13:09:00.001-05:00

M&M: Rochelle, tell us about your latest book WhoDo, Voodoo?

I’d love to! Who Do, Voodoo? features no-nonsense LizCooper, a Los Angeles psychologist with a cynical view of the occult. When Liz's friend Robin finds an unusualtarot card tacked to her front door, Liz writes it off as a prank. Robinrefuses to ignore the omen—the same card predicted her husband’s death twoyears earlier. As more cards and darker threats appear, Liz realizes someonedangerous is upping the ante and she turns to old friend and occult expert NickGarfield for help. Nick introduces Liz into the voodoo community where theirsearch for the origin of the tarot deck leads to the discovery of a murderveiled in a voodoo curse. Robin becomes a suspect, and Liz has to set aside herdoubts about the supernatural to unravel otherworldly secrets and clear herfriend—or risk being outwitted by a cunning killer.

M&M: What type of writing schedule do you have andhow long does it take you to write your books?

Who Do, Voodoo? took abouttwo years to write. I completed Bruja Brouhaha, the second in the series, inless than a year, and I envy writers who have the creative muscle to writefaster. Now that I have publishing deadlines, I write anywhere from one to sixhours daily depending on how a scene is flowing. The first draft takes longer,but I can’t get to the fun part—the edits—until the story is finished.

M&M: How many books have you written?

Who Do, Voodoo? is the firstnovel I wrote. Bruja Brouhaha is my second, and I’m in the thick of writing thethird novel in the series. When I began writing WDV, I didn’t anticipate theway Liz, Robin, and Nick would move in and take over my life, but they did!They’ve become my constant companions.

M&M: What writing advice do you have for thenovice mystery writer?

It sounds simple but this isvital—keep writing. Find your voice and use it to write the best novel you can.Entertain yourself, learn the rules so you can break the ones that don’t workfor you, and write without a timetable. Find a critique partner who “gets” you.Your first goal should be to finish your novel, then rewrite, and rewriteagain. Learn your craft.

M&M: Give us some advice on book publishing andpromoting your books?

Publishers know theiraudience, so it’s important to research the industry to find a good match forthe style and genre you write in. Publisher’s Marketplace is a great tool forseeing who is buying what. Once your novel has been sold and is ready formarket, the work begins. Authors actually have two jobs—writer andself-marketer. Visibility is key. Months before release get yourself outthere—be active on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and the onlinegroups; and, if you can, attend genre-relevant conferences to meet your peers.Familiarity and word of mouth are your friends.

M&M:Do you have a favorite book signing story totell us?

Oh, it has to be my signingat Mystery One Bookstore in Milwaukee, my hometown. The shop was jammed with myfamily and oldest friends, people I’ve known all my life. My friend Randy satnext to me in high school English Lit class; Bob worked with me at my first jobin the advertising business. The evening was truly old home week. And to top itoff, Mystery One is located in a classic east side building that once housed anold beatnik after hours club my friends and I snuck into when we were teens! Itwas a very special night.

M&M: Since you've become an author; what is themost humorous thing that has happened to you?

It’s a little embarrassing,but it’s funny. I needed a cold reader for the first draft of my second noveland one of the men I used to work with begged me to let him read it. Okay, Ithought, he’s not really a writer or a mystery fan but he liked Who Do, Voodoo?Why not? I gave him a rough copy and waited two weeks for a response. Nothing.I waited another week. Nothing. I finally called him, “So, how did you like thestory?” His answer will go down as one of the classic reviews of all time:“Didn’t finish it yet, but wow! I LOVE the paper you printed it on!” (I smackmyself on the forehead.)

M&M: Okay now for some fun questions. What is yourfavorite meal, movie, book and color?

My favorite, favorite wintermeal is a turkey dinner with all the trimmings. In summer I can live onwatermelon. Without a doubt, my two favorite movies are The Philadelphia Story and BullDurham, both fill my requirements for a satisfying film: good sets, goodclothes, one good kiss. Favorite book is a little more challenging. For humor, The Code of the Woosters by P.G.Wodehouse; for great noir mystery, TheContinental Op by Dashiell Hammett. I’m a serial reader. When I find anauthor I like, I’ll read everythinghe/she wrote before I move onto the next author. And my favorite color is red.You’ll see me in red lipstick every day.

M&M: What would your characters say about you ifwe asked them how you came up with their names?

I love how you phrased thequestion because as I developed the characters, they definitely had a say inhow they were named. Nick was easy and accepted his name without comment. Hewas named in homage to Hammett’s Nick Charles in The Thin Man, and his last name, Garfield, is the street I grew upon. I began writing Liz as Lizzie, but within the first few pages she objected.Lizzie wasn’t serious enough for a PhD, so she shortened her name on her own.Only her father and ex-husband get away with calling her Lizzie. Honestly? Idon’t remember where Cooper came from. Liz truly named herself. The gal is verysure of who she is.

M&M: What is your idea of a favorite vacation?

If you had asked me threeyears ago, I would have answered “a trip to Egypt or Mexico to view thepyramids.” I adore exploring the past, but lately my expeditions are for novelresearch. Now I’m thinking a week on a Hawaiian beach under an umbrella with abag full of mystery novels, a dish of macadamia nuts, and a cup of lemonadesounds like heaven.

M&M: is there something you would like to tell youyour readers?

Yes, yes—thank you forembracing Liz, Nick, Robin, Dave, Viv, and the rest of the gang. I had so muchfun writing them and I’m thrilled my readers fell into the story and went alongfor the ride! It feels like I’m introducing my favorite people to newfriends.

M&M: Leave us with your future writing plans.

Bruja Brouhaha, the secondnovel in the Mind For Murder Mystery series will be out in August 2012, and I’mwriting the third novel now. There are so many interesting and complex shadesof the occult to keep Liz and Nick busy for a long time. Murder with asupernatural twist fascinates me.

Thank you so much forinviting me here to chat with you and your readers. Mystery lovers rock!

Rochelle thank you for doing the interview. I will letyou know when we have it posted on http://mayhemandmagic2.blogspot.com

Rochelle Staab, a former award-winning radio programmer andmusic industry marketing executive, blended her fascination with thesupernatural and her love for mystery in WHO DO, VOODOO? the first novel in herMind for Murder Mystery series for Berkley Prime Crime.

www.rochellestaab.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rochelle.staab

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/rochellestaab

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4705211.Rochelle_Staab

Our First Time?

2011-11-21T12:05:00.001-05:00

Our first time:

I am curious so I thought I would ask the question: Aside fromNancy Drew or Agatha Christie and the same goes for Sherlock Holmes I am goingto ask you what is the first cozy mystery you read?

I know that mine was DEATH ON DEMAND by Carolyn Hart and I washooked. I never looked back and I can credit Carolyn with the fact that Ibecame a mystery author. Her books inspired me and I have to say Phylis Whitneyalso inspired me as she wrote several articles and books on writing and I lovedthem so did Slyvia Barrack and this year I am going to go back reread thesebooks., I remember the excitement I had with the thought of writing my firstmystery. I remember the first blank page that combined terror and excitement.

There are not enough blogs to go into the writing detours mylife had taken but those first years were so important and those first bookswere more important. I couldn't have though back before the Carolyn Hart daysthat I could write a book. I pretty much taught myself and some days this showsoh so clearly so I am not a real fan of self taught I do think that we all needsome sort of formal training to cross the t's and dot the i's.

I do however believe in not squelching anyone's writingexcitement the excitement and opening new worlds has to be there. It is commonto fall on your face in any career ours just happens to have more people readabout it...it's okay to fall down the true test of your character and that ofyour characters is to get up again and write.

My problem these days seems to be lack of focus and finishingsomething but I think I am finally able to get past my past failures. (Youdidn't think you were the only one)? I do think I will probably try publishingwith ebook and other avenues. Mostly because I am 54 and won't live forever likeI though I would when I was 27, 37, 47 and well hopefully by the time I am 57 Iwill have a few things published. Did I mention a writing career comes withstars in your eyes? But don't quit your day job like I did. Leaving the librarywas a huge mistake I should have stuck it out and kept working because now Ilive in a vacuum and it's hard to be creative in a vacuum. I have more time towrite but the connection to the human race is a must. I mean how do you writeabout characters when you are not among people? Well I'll tell you...

One way I do it and (shusssh don't tell my family and friendsthey think I'm crazy enough), I watch the Price Is Right every morning fivedays a week. I mean there are some real characters that get on that show. It'snot only my gulity pleasure it's my gulity writing pleasure. I want Drew Careyto write a book about the characters on that show. They sometimes have themeshows and one of my favorites was when the wedding show aired there are SOMEcouples out there. LOL Also another show I think is good for studyingcharacters is Harry's Law now that show has it all when it comes to charactersketching just take a notebook and watch a few episodes. It's a great way toget started.....you will get writing idea and character idea one right afterthe other.

Now you probably want to know my one writing regret(I'm sure Iheard somebody ask)....see I'm a little nuts. Okay a lot nuts but that isanother blog...for another day.

My writing regret is that I didn't learn my history well enough andwon't live long enough to write a believeable historical cozy mystery. I wouldlove to write one set in the 40's and 50's as a matter of fact my heroine inthe genre is Amanda Matetsky she KNOWS how to entertain us with humor and I sowant to be able to do what she does but of course there is only one AmandaMatetsky, just like there is only one Carolyn Hart, Lorraine Barrett, LeannSweeney, Rhys Bowen and I am crushed but there you have it. DO NOT try to copyanother authors writing way way too many judges spend their days in court alongwith lawyers and authors because somebody got carried away by their favoriteauthors. Instead create your own style but enjoy your favorite authors booksand learn from the books......See from Carolyn Hart's books I learned that Iliked cats in mysteries and I loved bookstore mysteries, from Mary Daheim'sbooks I learned that I really enjoy B&B Mysteries and I like Kookycharacters with heart but a head for solving crime. With Amanda's books Ilearned that he main character in the right setting and the right backgroundwill make all the difference and the devil is in the details....

In Writing,

Pamela

Review - Skating Over the Line

2011-11-21T12:04:00.001-05:00

Skating Over The Line by Joelle Charbonneau is the second book in the“Rebecca Robbins” mystery series. Publisher: Minotaur Books, September 2011

Rebecca Robbins is desperate to sell herinherited roller-skating rink in small-town Indian Falls, and—finally—she has abuyer. She can’t wait to head back to Chicago, especially now that her longdelinquent father has blown back into town, but Lionel, her veterinarianboyfriend, thinks she should stay put. Also, the gang at the Senior Centerwants her to track down the thief who’s been hot-wiring rusted-out classiccars. Unable to resist, Rebecca soon has the Sheriff’s Deputy threatening toarrest her for obstruction, and strange but scary men threatening her life.Then cars start exploding, with people in them, and Rebecca’s father goesmissing. With the help of Pop, her Elvis-impersonating grandfather, Rebeccamust find the pyromaniac car thief and put a stop to him—before he stops herfirst.

All Rebecca wants is to sell the skating rink and return to Chicago, butwhen Pop’s friend’s car is stolen, Rebecca reluctantly takes the case, only tofind the car ablaze. With a visit from her estranged father and beingthreatened, Rebecca has her hands full trying to find an arsonist car-thief.What a fun read! This was an enjoyable story from the moment I opened the bookand read the first line. The mystery kept me turning the pages and the lovableand eccentric characters of Indian Falls entertained me with their humorousantics and engaging dialogue. I look forward to more adventures with Rebeccaand gang in this charming and delightful series.

--Dru

Previously posted on dru's book musing

Kindle or Nook?

2011-11-14T10:04:00.001-05:00

KINDLE VERSES NOOK

Okay so far we haven't mentioned kindles on our blog or anyother ereaders etc...but today I am thinking about them so thought I would haveeveryone weigh in on this topic. Tell me what you have and why you chose yours?There are all types of these readers out there so I am curious about whichsuits you and why you wanted to buy the one you did? Are you still happy withit? Tell us about font and background? How many books have you read on thelet's say for this blog Kindle? What was the first book you put on your reader?How long did it take you to learn your way around it?

That is today's topic and I hope you will tell me about yours sowhen the time comes I can make an informed decession.

In reading,

Pam

Cross Stitcher's Day

2011-11-09T09:35:00.002-05:00

Cross Stitchers Day:

Last week our Creative Cross Stitch Group (and if you areinterested in joining you can find ous on yahoogroups), had our first November1st SAL (Stitch Along) stitch in day. It was a lot of fun and I enjoyedmy cross stitch immensely that because in Parsons I really do not have anyoneto talk about cross stitch with let alone cross stitch with anyone. Our town isa quilting town and these quilting groups make some lovely quilts but alas I amnot a quilter. Love them immensely but I do not quilt.

Anyway for our cross stitch buddies on the list I thought Imight ask what you are stitching and how many of us are Christmas stitching?How many days a week do you stitch and have you ever taught anyone else tocross stitch?

Do you have a face to face cross stitch group that you stitchwith? What about cross stitch buddies? What was the last pattern you bought?What was the last fabby and floss you bought? Tell us your cross stitch themes?

Mine are mostly Noir and retro themes but lately I also haveincluded samplers. My many many genres are coffee, gingerbread, halloween, andfrom there we go back to the Noir and retro. Heaven and Earth Designs areliterally to die for and I really love the Randall Spangler Patterns.....on thefantasy front I really for some reason like the storybook characters andwizards.

So now you know how my taste runs but I also want to take aboutthe creative things you can do with cross stitch. I know some of my friends andmyself include love to make halloween cross stitch ornaments and then take atree branch or limb spray paint it and decorate a halloween tree. The same withcross stitch cookie patterns for Christmas you can collect small cookiepatterns and make a cookie or sweet tree. There of course are the altoid tinsthat everyone is stitching and book bags, tote bags, alway a fav seems to besweatshirts and potholders, guest towels and T-Towels (I'm not talking aboutstamped cross stitch but creating your own design), checkbook covers, coffee ortea mugs, serving trays etc....it is no longer the cross stitch yourgrandmother used to stitch although there are some lovely antiquesamplers on the market today.

Anyway I thought I would give our cross stitchers some time tocatch everyone up on their projects and ideas.....

Hugs,

Pam

Review - A Veiled Deception by Annette Blair

2011-11-09T09:34:00.001-05:00

Maddie Cutler goes home to CT for her sister's impending wedding. But at a party in their family home, a woman is murdered. And her baby sister is the suspect. Then she finds another talent she has besides fashion design - sometimes the vintage clothes talk to her. And visions of the past, along with support of family and friends, she learns the keys to the crime lay in the past. Very fun read, with loads of great fashion quotes and descriptions. Then there are the interesting and fun characters. I loved this book and look forward to more in the series

Washington Ballet's The Great Gatsby at the Kennedy Center

2011-11-08T09:16:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed this performance. I think it is a story that translates very well to Ballet. And thanks to a generous doantion, TWB now has live music again - which was great. I do enjoy good jazz after all.The costumes of course I loved as well - fringe, sequins, handkerchief hemlines. How can they not be fun?

The dancers were great, particularly those who played Daisy, Myrtle and Gatsby. The props and sets were often whimsical and often just plain lovely. The jazz soloists were incredible and except for a couple moments I just didnt get (dancing with curtain only lifted to about the knees and a GREAT but to me not revelevant to the story tap dance), the dancing highly emotional and evocative.

I walked away from the performance in an upbeat mood feeling satisfied. Too bad the show had such a short run - because I really would recommend everyone to go see it.

Terri

Review - Flipped Out by Jenny Bentley

2011-11-08T09:08:00.001-05:00

Flipped Out by Jennie Bentley is the fifth book in the“Do-It-Yourself” cozy mystery series. Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime, October2011

Avery and her hunky handyman boyfriend DerekEllis are renovating another house in Waterfield, Maine. But it’s not just anyhouse. It belongs to local news anchor Tony “the Tiger” Micelli—and it’s aquaint cottage with limitless possibilities. Even more exciting is that themakeover is going to be filmed as part of a home renovation TV show. Unfortunately the road to cable TV fame is a bumpy one: this DIY spins into aDOA when Tony’s corpse is found at the cottage, flat on his back and not fromnatural causes. Turns out there were a few people who wanted Tony dead, andthat the murderer might have his sights set on a few more Waterfield residents.That means it’s up to Avery to nail the killer. Before someone yells “Cut!” andit’s all over.

Avery and Derek’s next renovation project will be part of a reality projectwith five days to complete the project. Things go astray when the owner’s deadbody is found and now the frantic pace to complete their project turns into afrantic pace to find a murderer before the crew leaves town. What a great read.This well-plotted mystery had so many twists that every time I thought I knewwho the killer was, another person had a better motive, and yet I didn’tsuspect the killer when they were finally revealed. What draws me back to theadventures of Avery and Derek are the relationships with their friends, theambiance of their coastal town and the warm feeling I get when I’m flipping thepages. The author continues to write a series that is both exciting andentertaining and I look forward to the next book in this enjoyable series.

--Dru Ann

Previously posted on dru's book musing

Books, Books, Books

2011-11-07T11:13:00.002-05:00

Books Books Books:

So while Oklahoma was having earthquakes last weekend my husbandwas visiting our daughter and grandchildren. He stopped by half price books inOlathe and picked me up these gems.

TOWN IN BLUEBERRY JAM by B.B. Haywood

DON'T DRINK THE WATER by Susan Rogers Cooper

THE BODY IN THE BONFIRE by Katherine Hall Page

DIPPED, STRIPPED and DEAD by Elise Hyatt

SCARED STIFF by Annelise Ryan all of them for 3.00 or under.....

I was surprised that he chose so many but every year I try(don't always succeed) to have some books for when I am snowed or iced in whichof course can always happen from Oct thru April in Kansas.

Anyway I had sent him to search out some writing books but henever bought any of those...

Which is my topic today as in for our authors on this list andin cozyarmchair what writing books have helped ? My coblogger Terri sent melinks to free writing books and I am going to be reading some of them. I willhave to take breaks but that is okay and I am very thankful that these are freebooks.

I am going to leave us with a cozyarmchair thought for the day.

"Authors from cozyarmchair if you want an interview pleaseemail offlist so that I might schedule one with you. I haven't kept up oninterviews but am ready to start interviewing our authors. If anyone else wouldlike an interview such as our stitchers, other authors etc..please contact me.My email addy is pamelasuejames@gmail.com

We are having storms move in today and all the way throughWednesday but Kansas so needs the rain!

Iam hoping to finish writing my short story by January firstmaybe post it on smashwords etc.....

We are deep into fall and I for one love the color changes onthe trees with leaves that are left. Lost a lot of leaves in the past week.

In writing and reading

Pamela

P.S. Any of our readers who would like to be interviewed pleaseemail me.

Chili/Chilly

2011-11-03T09:52:00.001-04:00

Chili/Chilly

I love a great fall scene and today I have chili in the crockpotbecause our leaves changed color (finally) and it's cold outside with a high of48 today. I love a good book, chili and a great fall scene.

What is your favorite fall scene? Does the season find youreading more books as we become cooler and do more inside entertainment?

Do you have a favorite fall meal and do you ever reread a bookor series?

Okay I am off to see what other mischief I can create. I mightlight a pumpkin candle...I have to write today so I don't want to do any bakingthat is longer than thirty minutes. So far the cooking channel hasn't come upwith a thirty minute baking show but if they do I am there.

Happy Reading and good scents,

Pam

Review - The Devil's Puzzle

2011-11-03T09:31:00.000-04:00

The Devil’s Puzzle by Clare O’Donohue is the fourthbook in the “Someday Quilts” mystery series. Publisher: Plume, September 2011

Nell and the Someday quilters undertake their first cold case in aseries that continues to bewitch.

After their quilting retreat upstate, the Someday Quilts ladiesreturn to Archers Rest to prepare for the town’s big anniversary celebration.But their plans are unexpectedly derailed by the discovery of a human skeletonin Nell’s grandmother’s backyard. When a menacing wave of shattered windows,defaced graves, and threats to prominent citizens follows, fears fly that thetown’s bygone history of witchcraft has been reawakened. Shockingly, Nell’sgrandmother becomes the prime suspect, and the ladies must solve the mysteryand clear her good name–even if it means putting Nell’s own life in danger.

When a dead body is found in Eleanor’s backyard, Nell, our amateursleuth, is on the case where secrets buried deep are about to be exposed.Concerns for her grandmother have Nell looking for clues to the identity of thebody and the reason for his death. When vandalism hits the town, Nell wondersif these acts are connected and will leave no stones unturned until a killer iscaught. What a great and enjoyable read! This well-crafted mystery was a delightto read. The storyline kept me intrigued as it came to an exciting andsurprising finish. The mystery plays a large part in this book, but it’s therelationships and camaraderie among the residents that keeps me coming back. Ilove Nell because she is such a strong protagonist who is not afraid to bedirect in her quest. With an endearing cast, great dialogue and the sense ofsmall-town community, this is the best book yet in this character-driven andcharming series. Especially nice is I’m a minor character in the book.

Reviewed by Dru Ann Love

Good Morning!

2011-11-02T10:28:00.001-04:00

Good Morning,

Well it's November so it's time to winterize your reading list.I guess what I meant to ask is...."Do you stock pile mysteries/books sothat if there is a blizzard like what happened to (Mare and our other cozyfriends) then you have a bunch of your favorite books on hand to read? See tome this situation is different than just having a tbr pile because the tbr pileis great but when I'm in a blizzard (I live in Kansas si it's happened) I startclimbing the walls and I need a book that will make me forget the weatheroutside. I also don't go to the library as often when we start receiving snowand ice so I do have a tbr pile and my weather crisis pile. Some of the authorsthat I must have in my weather crisis pile are Emily Brightwell, Nancy Athertonand Kate Kingsbury as I really like to read historical mysteries. Amanda Matetskydoesn't write fast enough to suit me. LOL BUT this year I am adding RhysBowen's books and Lorraine Bartlett and Barrett now Lorraine is also a must inmy tbr piles.LOLOLOL Elaine Viets will be a counted in as will Leslie Meir andMary Daheim. Who is in your weather crisis pile? Katherine Hall Page is anothergreat selected series as is Sarah Graves but anyway the choices you makeprobably won't be the choices I make......I really must think ahead because inKansas a blizzard and really swful weatehr can happen anywhere from Octoberthrough April but mostly it's Jan, Feb and March that seem to make me a littlecrazier. We've had snow on Halloween and I have evn centered one of themysteries I wrote around snow on Halloween.

So tell us your must have on hand titles or authors?

Hugs,

Pamela

Review: Inmate 1577

2011-10-25T09:00:00.002-04:00

Inmate 1577 by Alan Jacobson is the fourth book in the“Karen Vail” thriller series. Publisher: Premier Digital Publishing LLC, July2011

When an elderly woman is found raped and brutally murdered in SanFrancisco, Vail heads west to team up with SFPD Inspector Lance Burden and herformer task force colleague, Detective Roxxann Dixon. As Vail, Burden, andDixon follow the killer’s trail in and around San Francisco, the offendercontinues his rampage, leaving behind clues that ultimately lead them to themost unlikely of places: a mysterious island ripped from city lore whoselong-buried, decades-old secrets hold the key to their case. Alcatraz. TheRock.

What a thrilling ride. The author weaves two separate events fromthe past to the present and it’s in the present that we find Vail and the teamlooking for a connection between the brutal murder and rape of two elderlywomen and their husbands. When more victims are found, sifting through theclues trying to find a link between them and Karen’s profile will be the key tofinding the killer. This fast-paced, action-filled drama kept me turning thepages as I could not put this book down. With so many twist and turns, thisthriller kept me guessing and oh man, I did not see that coming when thekiller’s identity was revealed. A great story that has me waiting for the nextchapter in Karen Vail’s journey.

Dru

posted previously at dru'sbook musing

What a Week!

2011-10-21T10:10:00.001-04:00

What A Week!

I don't know where this week has gone? One minute it was Mondayand now it's Friday. I managed to get in some writing, and a lot of crossstitch is accomplished on my family sampler. After that things become sketchyand I know it started when my dryer quit running. I know I made a lot moremeals thn I have in the past week. My daughter called every night but one and Ieven talked to my son once this week.

However I never wrote the reviews, posted that I want authors tointerview for this (I do so if you want an interview email me or leave me youremail address) and I never did my Monday blog which was then intended to be myTuesday blog and well here we are on Friday.

My hsuband is to have carpal tunnel surgery in both hands so hewill have a consultation with the surgeon this coming Wednesday. It took themalmost two weeks to let us know and then I had to call them Grrrrrr......

It became colder and colder over the past week. However now weare going to be in the 70's through most of next week.

Okay my purpose for this blog is not to bitch but instead talkabout how much I love this month. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. Soare you dressing up this year and going to a party? Are going to read aHalloween Mystery and if so which one? Are you watching spooky movies and whichmovie would like to be a character in? Are you writing a Halloween blog ? Doyou make a Halloween Ornament Tree? Do you give Halloween gifts? Are stitchinga Halloween cross stitch project? When you look in the mirror what stares backat you?

Until next week have a safe and fun weekend!

Pam

Review: The Serial Killer's Wife

2011-10-19T10:47:00.003-04:00

Title: The Serial Killer's Wife
Autor: Robert Swartwood
Publisher: CreateSpace
ISBN: 1463664079

Sarah gets a call at work one day to find her child has been kidnapped and her life is thrust into turmoil again. But Sarah is not really Sarah (her name is really Elizabeth) - she had run away and hidden after her husband was arrested as a serial killer. And now someone wants his "trophies."

Now the clock is ticking, and we meet interesting characters along the way. Her panic is palpable. A very suspenseful read with lots of fascianting plot twists

Terri

Review: Til Death Do us Bark

2011-10-19T10:42:00.002-04:00

Till Death Do Us Bark by Judi McCoy is the fifth bookin the “Dog Walker” mystery series. Publisher: Obsidian, August 2011

A Hamptons wedding gives Ellie an excuse to take a break for thefirst time in ten years, so she and her best friend pack up theirdogs—yorkiepoo Rudy and terrier Twink—and head to the beach for a week. Sincehumans and canines have been invited to the festivities, Ellie hopes shedoesn’t get roped into dealing with the wet-nosed wedding guests. But soonshe’s chasing her tail over trouble of the two-legged variety. Before the bridecan say, “I do,” someone is murdered, and Ellie and Rudy must put their nosesto the ground to sniff out the killer before the entire ceremony goes to thedogs.

Ellie and Viv with their furry pals (Rudy and Mr. T) are in theHamptons attending the wedding of Viv’s oldest sister. Instead of a happycelebration, Ellie finds herself involved in yet another murder, thegroom-to-be. Secrets are exposed as Ellie, with help from Viv and Rudy, searchfor clues that will shut the door on wedded bliss for the killer. Thiseasy-paced tale was such a fun read. I thought I knew the identity of thekiller, but the author had other ideas that led me astray. With Viv’s family atthe forefront, it was fun watching Viv’s relationship with her family as sheworked together with Ellie and the dogs to prove a person’s innocence. Thebanter between Ellie and her canine friends is just as entertaining as theconversations she has with her human friends. This was another good story inthis likeable series.

previously posted on dru'sbook musing

Pamela's Progress on Bookshelf project

2011-10-12T08:46:00.001-04:00

Review - Close to Home

2011-10-12T08:44:00.001-04:00

Close to Home by Jenna Bennett is the fourth book in the“Savannah Martin” mystery series. Publisher: Bente Gallagher, September 2011

Savannah’s late. The kind of late that comeswith midnight feedings and the pitter-patter of little feet. And while it’s acircumstance that should make everyone happy – now she can finally settle downand marry Todd Satterfield, the way everyone’s been hoping and praying! – itisn’t Todd’s baby. And Rafe Collier, whose baby it is, didn’t sign on forfatherhood. Add in the murder of Savannah’s sister-in-law Sheila, thetrial of Sheila’s friend Marley, and the disappearance of Rafe’s twelve yearold son David – the kid he never knew he had – and things get complicated fast.And there is worse to come: When Rafe comes back to Nashville to help look forDavid, and learns that Savannah’s pregnant, things do not work out the waySavannah hopes. In the end, she’s left with nothing she wanted and a whole lotof trouble she didn’t, and when she gets in over her head, Rafe’s not there tosave the day.

This story evoke so many emotions that I could not put this book down. Thiswas a departure from the previous three titles when a murder hit very close toSavannah and her family. While dealing with her own health issues, a missing“boyfriend”, helping her brother find an heir; Savannah looks into who wantedher SIL dead and faces an opponent that gave her cause. The page-turning,action-filled drama pulled me in from that first sentence to the last line andI can’t wait to read the next book in this wonderful series.

Dru Ann

Previously posted on dru's book musing

Review - Sleight of Paw

2011-10-07T09:54:00.002-04:00

Sleight of Paw by Sofie Kelly is the second book in the“Magical Cats” mystery series. Publisher: Obsidian, September 2011

Kathleen Paulson never wanted to be the crazy catlady. But when Owen and Hercules followed her home from mysterious WisteriaHill, she realized her mind wasn’t playing tricks on her: Her cats have magicalabilities. And when a body is found near Kathleen’s favorite local café, sheknows Owen’s talent for turning invisible and Hercules’s ability to walkthrough closed doors will give the felines access to clues Kathleen couldn’tget without arousing suspicion. With her pet partners, and perhaps theassistance of a certain handsome detective, Kathleen is determined to find outwho kill Agatha Shephard, an elderly woman who seems to have helped almosteveryone in town at one time or another. Someone is hiding dark secrets, and itwill take a bit of furtive investigating to catch the coldhearted killer.

This was a good read. When Kathleen’s friend is arrested for murder andbelieving in her innocence, Kathleen begins an earnest investigation into themurder. This was easy-paced story that was very appealing. The mystery was goodand with guidance from her mystical cats, Kathleen was able to expose a killer.I liked the character developments; the easy flow of conversations; thesmall-town feeling and of course, her two furry roommates. I look forward toreading the next book in this charming series.

Previously posted on dru's book musing

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AND HANDMADE GIFTS:

2011-10-06T11:05:00.001-04:00

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AND HANDMADE GIFTS:

Have you started your Christmas shopping? I did this past monthbut I am a cross stitcher and in order to have any ornaments or gifts you muststitch a season or two in advance. Soooo today I pulled the floss and fabby tostart a gingerbread ornament. We need to cheer me on to get this one done as Iam a very slow stitcher.

Have you started your Christmas stitching, quilting, craftingetc....and if so what are you making this year?

Do you think you will complete your projects in time ?

Okay I am going to stitch before I get back to my book Town InLobster Stew by B.B. Haywood.

Happy Autumn and Christmas Cheer!

Hugs,

Pam

Review - Death in a Difficult Position

2011-10-04T11:29:00.001-04:00

Death in a Difficult Position by Diana Killian is the fourth book inthe “Mantra for Murder” mystery series. Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime,September 2011

Though he’s new in Stillbrook, the charismaticReverend David Goode has wasted no time in pointing a righteous finger at thetown’s center of sin: A.J. and her studio. A.J. tries to have a civil word withhim, but the fire and brimstone only gets worse. In fact, her former partnerturned ruthless yoga rival, Lily, approaches her suggesting they present aunited front against Goode before he drives them both out of business. But whenGoode is found murdered and the hot-tempered Lily is accused, A.J. discoversthat the good reverend was actually a bad, bad boy, with a flock full ofmotives for murder. And if she wants to clear Lily’s name, A.J. is going tohave to stretch her sleuthing skills to the limit.

Yoga, a sin? That is what the newly arrived Reverend is telling hiscongregation. While A.J. and the other yoga owners tried to talk some senseinto him, Lily lets her temper get the best of her and when he is murdered,Lily becomes the prime suspect. Knowing that A.J. like sleuthing, Lily asksA.J. to find the killer before she is doing a 7-year stretch. I enjoyed thislighthearted and fast-paced story. The mystery was good, as I didn’t pinpointthe killer until later in the story and it was fun watching A.J. and her mother“work” the case. New characters were introduced in this tale and I hope we getto see more of them in the next installment of this likeable series.

--Dru

Previously appeared at dru's book musing

Guest Blogger - Alice Duncan

2011-10-03T12:50:00.002-04:00

Oh,my. You know how some months have great stuff in them and also some awfulstuff? I guess that means there was both mayhem (galore) and magic (some) in myown personal September.

Tobegin with, I’ve been fortunate to be getting more independent editing jobsrecently. This is a Very Good Thing, because otherwise I’d be living in abjectpoverty. As it is, thanks to the independent editing stuff, I live in merepoverty. The independent jobs pay ever so much better than my work for the bookpackager. So that’s been marginally magical.

Also,and this is a minorly magical thing, my January book, PECOS VALLEY REVIVAL, isa finalist in the New Mexico Book of the Year Awards. Yay, me. And thank you,Mike Orenduff, who’s the one who entered the book in the contest to begin with.Heck, I didn’t even know there was aNew Mexico Book of the Year Award, which goes to show how on top of things I am. Sigh. My particular book is afinalist in the historical fiction category. I’m actually kind of a doublefinalist, since a book I edited, THE FAERIE HILLS, by Susan McDuffie, is also afinalist. So yay, Susan, too! And yay, Mike, whose THE POT THIEF WHO STUDIEDEINSTEIN is a finalist in the contemporary category!

However,a couple of hugely mahem-ish things happened only this past week. The first wassad: my oldest wiener dog, Skipper, died sometime between Sunday night andMonday morning. Skipper was my first “foster failure” with New Mexico DachshundRescue. A “foster failure” is when you’re fostering a dog and decide to adopthim/her yourself. I adopted Skipper because he was such a sweetheart. The firsttime I saw him was when I picked him up from the veterinarian right after he’dhad his shots and been neutered. I figured the poor doggie would be in a gooddeal of pain after what he’d been through, so I expected to be very gentle withhim. The vet’s assistant had him in her arms, and she handed him to me. As soonas I took him, he looked up at me and pretty much said, “I love you,” with hisbig brown eyes. I mean, who could resist after that.

Skipperwas cremated, and his ashes will be scattered in the Sacramento Mountains,which couldn’t be a lovelier place for anybody, human or canine, to spendeternity. Well, I suppose he’s crossed the Rainbow Bridge by this time and is frolickingwith the rest of my late wiener dogs, including his particular pal Dandy. Itell you, when my time comes to cross the bridge, I’m going to be run down by apack of dachshunds!

Andthen, on Tuesday, my computer gave up the ghost. It’s taken all week long, butI finally have a new computer. Now all I have to do is figure out how to usethe stupid thing and reconstruct all my contacts and web sites, etc. Sigh. Ijust hate it when computers act up, mainly because I don’t speak computer, andI feel like a total idiot when I talk to people who do know what they’re talking about. But I’ll get over it. And withluck, this new computer will be better than the old one, which pretty muchstank from the beginning.

Speakingof PECOS VALLEY REVIVAL (not that we were), I’ll be giving away a couple ofcopies of that book (since it’s downright almost famous now – that’s a joke) atthe end of the month. Actually, I won’t be giving them away until earlyNovember, because I’ll be in California at the end of October! Yay! What’s moreI’ll be signing books at the Pasanita Dog Obedience Trials on October 30, inBrookside Park (that’s where the Rose Bowl is), if you happen to be in thearea. I know; probably not, huh? However, if you want to enter my contest, justsend me an e-mail with your name and address to alice@aliceduncan.net, and I’ll tossyour name into my special contest doggie dish. Thanks!

Review - Where's Your Daddy?

2011-09-27T08:54:00.003-04:00

Where’s Your Daddy? by Sue Ann Jaffarian is the third short story in the “Holidays From Hell” mystery series. September 2011

How do you celebrate Father’s Day when your father has flown the familial coop? For Zelda Bowen it means carrying on with the tradition of visiting, Pops, her cantankerous and ill-tempered grandfather. Armed with his beloved burgers, she shows up at his retirement home ready to do the usual battle with the old codger. But is Zelda visiting out of respect for her grandfather or with a plan to ambush her own dad when he visits the old man? Both heartbreaking and hilarious, Where’s Your Daddy? shows you are never too old to change or too hurt to forgive.

Hoping to run into her father, Zelda visit with her grandfather and learns more about herself than she bargained for. This story will put a smile on your face and leave your heart filled with warmth. This was another great read and I can’t wait for the next holiday visit.

--Dru

dru's book musing

Review - New York to Dallas

2011-09-22T10:39:00.002-04:00

New York to Dallas by J.D. Robb is the 33rd book in the “In Death” mystery series. Publisher: Putnam, September 2011

#1 New York Times bestselling author J. D. Robb presents an intense and terrifying new case for New York homicide cop Eve Dallas, one that will take her all the way to the city that gave her her name—and plunge her into the nightmares of her childhood.

When a monster named Isaac McQueen—who was taken down by Eve back in her uniform days—escapes from Rikers, he has two things in mind. One is to pick up where he left off, abducting young victims and leaving them scarred in both mind and body. The other is to get revenge on the woman who stopped him all those years ago.

This book is great! Once I read that first line, this book stayed in my hands, quickly turning the pages until that final sentence was read. Such an intense story that I was pulling for Eve to get through this keeping her faith in herself as well as her friends and especially Roarke. The best part is when Eve saw the partner, I knew who it was and boy was that great watching Eve’s emotions played out on the pages. After more than thirty-three books, J.D. Robb keeps me coming back for more and more of this suspenseful and thrilling series.

--Dru

dru's book musing

Autumn

2011-09-19T11:52:00.001-04:00

Autumn:

What is your favorite autumn or Halloween mystery? I live for this time of year and last night while at the grocery store I found "The Diva Haunts A House" by Krista Davis and I can't wait to read this book.

Do you decorate for autumn or Halloween? I put out my Halloween decor last weekend. I do not have my pumpkin yet and of course this is a good thing since they would be icky by Halloween. I want to netflix a dvd of the Ghost and Mr. Chicken staring Don Knots.

The weather is cooler and we have had veggie soup last week and I made pumpkin bread sooo yummy. What fall foods and treat are on your list to make, bake, cook and devour? LOL

Tonight we will have chicken and noodles which will be heavenly and it's also the season premire of "Castle" who could ask for more on a Monday?

My favorite Halloween Mystery was Wicked Witch Murder by Leslie Meir to which I read when my friend gave it to me for a Christmas present such a great mystery. I will be reading Halloween Party this year and of course The Diva Haunts A House.

I hope everyone has a great Monday and whether you're working in your pj's or wearing office attire remember to take the time to stop and smell all the wonders of fall. (LOL) okay I'm a little early buyt you know what I mean...

Review - Mama Sees Stars

2011-09-16T10:19:00.001-04:00

Mama See Stars by Deborah Sharp is the fourth book in the “Mace Bauer” mystery series. Publisher: Midnight Ink, September 2011

My stars and garters—Hollywood has descended on little ol’ Himmarshee, Florida. As animal wrangler for a cowboy film, Mace is on the set when she discovers the arrogant executive producer shot dead, his body on display in the horse corral. With everyone from spoiled starlets to conniving crew members cursing the man’s name, who in blue blazes didn’t want to kill Norman Sydney? As Mama’s head swells to diva proportions, thanks to her miniscule movie role, Mace shines an unwelcome spotlight on the big-city film folk to reveal a killer.

Hollywood has invaded their small town and the Bauer family is working behind the scenes, that is until Mama lands a small role in the movie. Instead of discovering fame, once again, Mace finds another body and is on the hunt for a killer among the stars. What a fun read that will have you laughing from Mama’s “I’m a rising movie star” role to the sisters being star-struck to Mace’s on-again, off-again relationship with the handsome Carlos. I just love this series. The mystery was good, but it’s the relationship between Mama and her girls that I enjoy the most in this delightfully charming and character-driven series. This was the best one yet in this fun-filled and entertaining series and I look forward to the next exploits with Mama and her family.

-Dru

Reivew - The Diva Haunts the house

2011-09-15T09:01:00.002-04:00

The Diva Haunts The House by Krista Davis is the fifth book in the “Domestic Diva” mystery series. Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime, September 2011

Domestic diva Sophie Winston is getting into the holiday spirit, and her decorations for a community haunted house are so good, it’s scary. Not to be outdone, rival domestic diva Natasha is throwing a spooktacular Halloween party at her house. But when Sophie arrives, she discovers one of Natasha’s guest dead in a hair-raising Halloween display, and a pale, fanged partygoer feeling the scene.

The cause of death is not immediately apparent, but the victim does have two puncture wounds on his neck. While Sophie’s boyfriend, homicide detective Wolf, investigates, rumors start flying faster than witches on broomsticks. Could the killer be a real vampire—the same one rumored to have lived in Sophie’s haunted house back when it was a boarding house! Good thing a domestic diva never runs out of garlic.

What a fun read where everything that could happen during Halloween, does. All Sophie wanted to do was present a spooky Haunted House for the community and celebrate her niece’s birthday, but instead she gets a dead body, talks of vampire, ghosts and things that go bump in the night. Weeding through all of this, Sophie had to contend with two rambunctious teenagers who hoped to see a spirit or two. With preparation of scrumptious meals interspersed with crime solving, this tale will have you wishing you were there with Sophie as she and her friends unwrapped a killer’s identity. This wonderful story boasts a well-carved mystery, a lovable cast of characters and a feel-good atmosphere in this charming and entertaining series that includes mouth-watering recipes.

--Dru

Review - Murder at the Old Vicarage

2011-09-13T09:04:00.002-04:00

MURDER AT THE OLD VICARAGE

Author: JILL McGOWN

Publisher: St. Martin's Press, Inc

Large type

ISBN: 0-8161-4838-4

Graham Elstow has been murdered. It was only justice because after all he beat the hell out of his wife any time things did not go his way. Still someone has to answer for his murder. Graham's wife Joanna could have murdered her husband but the fact is she still loved Graham and in fact had told him that she was carrying his child.

Then Joanna's parents the vicar and his wife Marian might have murdered Graham for they had been at the hospital, seen the bruises and knew that their son-inlaw had a lot to answere for so it sure could have made them mad enough to deal with him in a most unchristian way. Maybe it was Eleanor Langton who is the vicar's neighbor and speical friend and who had lost her husband laswt year after he was in a comma for three years. Richard had never ever been able to hold his daughter Tessa because he was ran down in the street outside his home by none other than Graham Elstow.

asbthe story unfolds there is the drama of famil relationship, family secrets, madness and murder. There is also a subdrama of a detective and his sargent to whom is married and he is having an affair with her. He wants to marry Judy but she not having any of it as she is already a married woman.
As alibis and stories are torn apart we discover piece by evidence that nothing is what it seems.

I loved MURDER AT THE OLD VICARAGE and Jill McGown knows how to incite every emotion.

From page one she locks in every clue, emotion and character as she we are drawn to a family and their version of a normal relationship. This book kisses one cheek while slapping the other and never ever will you forget the characters and plot.

Pamela James ***********

Monday Morning

2011-09-12T10:44:00.001-04:00

Monday Morning:

I hope everyone had a great weekend. My weekend was a bit different but we all have those weekends. Okay

so what was the last book you read that thrilled you? I think today we'll discuss what books you would like to see on the market that might have been overlooked? There are all types of cozies and classic mysteries, culinary, hobby etc... so what would you like to see more of out there?

I would love to see more bed and breakfast mysteries, haunted bookstore or house mysteries. I also think after reading Laura Levine's series I would love to read more cruise ship mysteries. Historical cozies really have my heart and there just are not

enough true-cozy mysteries out that reflect this sub-genre.

What are your choices of cozies and mysteries that would be fun to read ?

BTW anyone venture a guess what Sue Grafton will write when her detective series comes to an end?

Cheers,

Pam

Review - Under the Dog Star

2011-09-12T10:13:00.002-04:00

Under the Dog Star by Sandra Parshall is the fourth book in the “Rachel Goddard” mystery series. Publisher: Poisoned Pen Press, September 2011

Something terrifying is happening in the mountain community of Mason County, Virginia. Pets are vanishing mysteriously and “Missing Dog” posters cover the waiting room walls at Dr. Rachel Goddard’s veterinary clinic. A pack of feral canines roams at night, attacking livestock in a desperate search for food. Then prominent physician, Gordon Hall, is been found dead in his yard, his throat ripped open. Sheriff ’s Department investigator Tom Bridger believes the killing was premeditated murder using a trained attack dog as the weapon. He also suspects it is connect to the resurgence of an old problem: illegal dog fighting. But Dr. Hall’s son insists the feral pack killed his father, and he organizes a group of men to find and shoot the animals. Rachel and her friend Holly Turner make enemies by trying to rescue the dogs and move them to the to the sanctuary Holly has created. Tom, in love with Rachel and worried about her safety, must divide his time between the escalating controversy, shutting down the dog-fighting operation (if he can locate it), and hunting for Gordon Hall’s killer. Could one of Hall’s five children hold the key to his murder?

Wild dogs, murder and a dysfunctional family keeps Rachel and Tom busy and when they merged, danger surrounds them. This riveting and intense-moving tale took me on a ride that I did not want to get off. The brutal death of their father leads to several suspects as Tom seeks to find the killer among them; meanwhile Rachel is trying to save the wild pack of dogs and gets tangled in Tom’s investigation. This captivating novel is the best one thus far in this gripping series.

--Dru

Good Morning!

2011-09-06T10:42:00.001-04:00

Good Morning,

Our weather is coming along nicely this week. Temps in the 70's and 80's sunny, breeze just about perfect. What did you do on

Labor Day Weekend? First I cross stitched on "The BookShelf" by Little House Of Needlework. Last week I bought a cross stitch magazine

with Halloween Ornament Theme, I then switched to cross stitching on a "Witch's Hat" , so this was good as I watched Nero Wolfe, Rosemary & Thyme.

Then since it was ou anniversary weekend Frank bought me the wireless router for my laptop and now he can use the netbook and be on the internet.

i think he will love the internet games (which ones are your favorites?) Then we decided yesterday evening to buy a new tv which put a bee in my

bonnet as I wanted to change the furniture around.

Since it's been cool here we had chili for supper but I wanted to try diabetic recipes. There didn't seem to be the right time to try them out for the

first time soooo this weekend I make the two recipes that I never got around to making last weekend.

I also have cold so I didn't have the energy although I did walk and walk alot...........

This week what is exciting in your world of work an play?

Writing I am proud to say happened two out of the three day weekend. I even took the laptop to the swing to write. I am trying to get a short story

ready for Smashwords.

I am ready for fall as we exceeded out triple digits days this summer. This is the first year I hated the heat. I usually enjoy summer immensely but

not this year. Spring and last winter were no great shakes either maybe fall will redeem my year. I am ready and to be honest fall has always been

my favorite season. It's not quite here but I will take the temps we have been given this week as an early gift of fall's arrival. In the meantime I

must go water my plants and flowers. LOL

9/11 is this week as in the tenth anniversary so everyone I will carry love and peace in my heart as we revisit the tragic events of that fatal day. Do

you remember what you were doing that morning? My son was stationed in Germany and I was glued to the tv with the phone in my hand. He did

call later in the day.

Okay I must get busy so I can make my way to the laptop and work on my short story.

Love you all,

Pamela

Stay safe and carry peace in your hearts this week.

An Interview with Heather Hummel

2011-09-02T08:46:00.000-04:00

Heather, since you write fiction and nonfiction books. I would like to start this interview by asking about the books you've ghost written and what it's like to be a ghost writer?

Being both a ghostwriter and a novelist has rounded out my career in ways that are incredibly rewarding. As a ghostwriter, I’m challenged with writing in my client’s voice. This means leaving my ego and any personal agendas aside while I embrace their project. I’ve written two nonfiction books, the first was Gracefully: Looking and Being Your Best at Any Age (McGraw-Hill, 2008), co-written with Valerie Ramsey (my mother), who became a model at the age of 63. For this project, I really thought about the reader and what they would get out of the message of the book, which is to accept and seek new challenges at any age.

The second nonfiction book is almost ready to be sent to the publisher. In this case, I’ve signed a Nondisclosure Agreement, but I can say that it’s a book that will change the way you perceive dating and finding the love of your life. I will be able to promote and discuss it next spring when it launches.

The third project is a terrific novel titled Malocchio: The Evil Eye Murders, cowritten by Michael Chiaradonna and James T. Vance. They cowrote this book twenty years ago, and recently handed it over to me as their editor and publisher. It’s not quite a ghostwriting project per se, but is one I’m proud to be a part of nonetheless. As a ghostwriter, I allow others to check “Author” off on their Bucket List, and that’s exactly what this project let me do!

I am also negotiating contracts with two public figures/celebrities to ghostwrite their books. Every client is different. Some are okay with allowing me to have public credit (often seen as “with Heather Hummel”) and others, usually due to their branding, want full credit for their book. In these cases, a ghostwriter can negotiate higher royalties and pay in trade for nondisclosure.

Next up I of course need to ask about your writing schedule. What type of writing schedule do you have and how would you improve upon it?

Because I ghostwrite for clients as well as write my own Journals from the Heart series, I wake up each day with any number of projects awaiting my attention! I often work on client projects in the morning, especially if I need to talk to the cleint or e-mail back and forth about a chapter. Then after lunch I either swim, bike or take my dogs for a long walk to decompress and shift gears. Exercise is my muse! In the early evenings I handle my social media¾Twitter, Facebook and Blogging. Then after dinner I indulge in writing my novels. I’m often up till midnight writing! It’s become a routine that works really well for me, keeps my clients and me happy and the projects moving along!

Okay let's talk about your ebooks and do you like the ebook process? Please fill us in a bit what goes in to publishing an ebook?

I have a theory about eBooks…they’re like microwaves. Microwaves did not replace ovens; they gave us another way to cook! eBooks give us another way to read! For now, eBooks are coexisting with print quite well, and I’m just happy the topic is not about whether or not to read, but in which format to read!

Besides my Journals from the Heart series and my nonfiction book GO BIKE & Other Signs from the Universe, I’ve formatted and uploaded several eBooks for other authors. It’s something that is, surprisingly, best initially done in Microsoft Word, which is then converted to either a PDF or an HTML file (Kindle). Kindle has a Mobipocket Creator that converts the HTML file to the necessary formats. You can also use Smashwords, which again requires a Word document. The trick is to keep the formatting simple. eBook readers come in all shapes and sizes¾from iPhones to iPads to Kindle to the Nook, the screens vary in size. Because of this, eBooks (such as Kindle) do not need page numbers, headers or footers. The text shouldn’t be larger than 14, and should be in a simple font. It’s very different than a print book in that regard.

Just a few days ago, I formatted Maloccio: The Evil Eye Murders and loaded it to Kindle. It was live that night! Anyone could have been reading it within 12 hours. You can’t do that with print (though we are also launching Malocchio in print in a few weeks). People also love the ease, convenience, and (for the most part) low cost prices of eBooks.

Now we would like to know about Heather, the woman, the author and the person behind the book?

Victoria Moran, a radio host and best selling author of spiritual books, once called me a “writer’s writer” in a radio interview I did with her. I remember being so flattered that she saw me that way. I now call myself The Gypsy Writer because I love to combine traveling with writing.

What are your future writing plans?

I’m in the process of writing a new novel titled $1 and $100. It is a fictional view of how people relate to money. The main “characters” are a $1 and $100 bill that pass through many people’s hands from different walks of life and through about three decades. I’m really excited about this novel. The money starts with a seven year old boy and his young, widowed mother who is a waitress. Each bill then leaves their possession and travels through time and the hands of others. Writing the other side stories is one aspect that is not only challenging (especially as time passes), but exciting. It starts in the 1970s and will end in the early 2000s. This book will launch in November.

I’m also writing the third novel in my Journals from the Heart series. As you can probably guess, each novel uses journal writing as its theme. In Whispers from the Heart, Madison Ragnar, a high school English teacher, helps her students cope with the death of a classmate through journal writing. In Write from the Heart, Samantha Sounder uses journal writing as a reflection of failed relationships. She turns to positive and gratitude writing, which allows her life to take a turn for the better. The third, Wisdom from the Heart, will explore a fourteen year old girl who finds out she’s adopted. This novel’s chapters alternate between Jamie as a fourteen year old and as a forty-something year old.

By becoming an author what has given you the most pride in your profession?

I love it when a client’s book comes out in print. When they receive their first copy, it’s always rewarding to know that it’s in their hands because I helped them realize that dream. At the same time, I do pride myself on being able to write in many different genres and platforms. One of my first paid writing gigs was for a family magazine. Even though I hadn’t been married, let alone birthed any kids, I was the top writer for the magazine. That’s when I knew I could write in other people’s voices. When I write my own fiction, I take on the role of ghostwriter for my characters…it’s an interesting perspective to take.

Do you belong to a writer's group, or have a critique partner?

I have belonged to critique groups in the past, but I don’t currently belong to one. I actually wrote an article on my blog titled Writing Workshop Etiquette: 10 Tips for Writing Groups (http://heatherhummel.blogspot.com/2007/11/writing-workshop-etiquette.html), which receives a lot of hits. I learned a lot of great workshop methodologies in my Secondary Education classes as a student of the University of Virginia.

I find a lot of writers tend to stay in their critique groups too long. At some point, writers outgrow one another, and it’s in their best interest to move on. It’s easy to get stuck in a comfortable rut with familiar faces, but to really grow as a writer, it is worth moving on. You’ll know when the time is right.

Is there something you would like to say to your readers?

Most of my followers know that I am, at the core, a spiritual writer. My one nonfiction book that is based on my life is GO BIKE & Other Signs from the Universe. It addresses the signs we receive on a daily basis when we’re open to them. This one piece of advice at the end relates to everyone who has a faith system…

“The final step in seeing signs is when you are so completely open to the Universe/God that you will not need to look for signs; you will not need to ask for signs¾why? Because you will just know.”

Leave us with some words of wisdom and this can either be by one of your characters or by you.

Be open to possibilities! I am the self-proclaimed Gypsy Writer. I brand myself as this because I’ve lived in 5 different states, but at the same time, I love writing in different genres and platforms. By keeping myself open to new ideas and projects, I have not pigeon-holed myself into one genre. That can certainly work against a writer, but if done right, it can push you in directions you never thought possible.

Heather Hummel is the author of the Journals from the Heart Series. She is an award winning author and celebrity ghostwriter. Her published works include:

Fiction: Journals from the Heart Series: Whispers from the Heart and Write from the Heart

Nonfiction: GO BIKE & Other Signs from the Universe (2011 eBook) and Gracefully: Looking and Being Your Best at Any Age (McGraw Hill, 2008), - Merit Award of the 2009 Mature Media Awards,

Heather's books have appeared in newspapers such as: Publishers Weekly, USA Today and the Washington Post; and in magazines that include: Body & Soul, First, and Spry Living, a combined circulation of nearly 15 million. Visit Heather’s website at www.heatherhummel.net

Two Short reviews by DruAnn

2011-09-02T08:44:00.002-04:00

These are two short stories.

Pull My Paw by Sue Ann Jaffarian is the second short story in the “Holidays From Hell” mystery series. Publisher: Sue Ann Jaffarian, July 2011

A dog with a flatulence problem wasn’t high on Judy Bowen’s wish list of Mother’s Days gifts, no matter how cute the canine. So imagine her surprise when the spa gift her eldest daughter, Norma, usually gave her was substituted with a little dog named Crankshaft who suffers from tummy trouble. In Pull My Paw, the second Holidays From Hell short story from Sue Ann Jaffarian, the crazy Bowen clan is at it again, celebrating another holiday with arguments and angst in the shadow of their still missing husband and father. When middle daughter Zelda steps in to sort it all out, she learns that good things really do come in small packages – small, hairy, smelly packages.

It’s Mother’s Day with the Bowen family when the mom decides she’s not celebrating the day as in the past. This was another quick and entertaining read and I can’t wait for the third one in this humorous series.

The Rabbit Died by Sue Ann Jaffarian is the first short story in the “Holidays From Hell” mystery series. Publisher: Sue Ann Jaffarian, June 2011

Zelda Bowen isn’t big on family holidays, but this Easter has all the makings of a world-class disaster. Her father has recently run off with the bimbo at his office, leaving behind the question: who will wear the Easter Bunny costume and pass out the baskets to the kids? A job that, until this year, was always his. This humorous yet touching story opens with Zelda and her sisters arguing over who should wear the bunny suit and carry on the family tradition. To the delight of her nieces and nephew, Zelda dons the costume, while her mother, toked-up on medicinal marijuana, shoots daggers at the oversized bunny. As emotions and antics ramp up, the day becomes one of those memorable “holidays from hell” many of us have experienced.

This short story was a quick read that was both enjoyable and entertaining. For a family that is dealing with domestic issues, the Bowen family will leave you laughing until your next visit.

--Dru Ann

dru's book musing

my quilts

Dru's Cozy Report (15th of the month)

Guest Blogger - Alice Duncan

2011-09-02T08:42:00.000-04:00

Well, in spite of the heat and our continuing drought (we’ve had about one inch and seventeen drops of water so far this year), August was a pretty magical month.

My fifth Daisy Gumm Majesty book, GENTEEL SPIRITS, came (to rave reviews, I might add), and I got a whole box of advanced reading copies of her sixth adventure, ANCIENT SPIRITS. Have I mentioned that getting the cover art for my books is the most exciting part of the whole process for me? Well, it is. Probably if I ever earned any money from my books, that would be exciting, too, but I don’t. One takes what one can get, don’t you know. Please feel free to read an excerpt from GENTEEL SPIRITS on my website: www.aliceduncan.net I’m not posting an excerpt from ANCIENT SPIRITS until closer to the book’s publication date. You’ll have to read GENTEEL SPIRITS to find out why. Ask your local library to buy a copy, since it’s too darned expensive for a regular human being to buy!

August also saw the arrival of Bella and Bam Bam, two teeny wiener dogs who have been grievously neglected and/or abused in their short lives. I guess little Bella was used as a breeding bitch and never had given attention at all except during those times. Bam Bam, who is younger than Bella, seems the less emotionally damaged of the two dogs, but they both need a lot of tender loving care. I really, really don’t like people who are mean to dogs. On the other hand, look at all the abused children in the world. If people can treat their kids like that, I guess they wouldn’t shy away from abusing a ten-pound dog. Grrr.

During August, too, I was invited to participate in a mystery blog tour at the end of November-first of December. I’ve never done anything like this before, but it looks like fun. A bunch of mystery authors (I nominally qualify as a mystery author, although my books aren’t heavy on dead bodies and gore) will appear on each other’s blog spaces every day for a couple of weeks. I guess it’s kind of labor-intensive, but the worst part for me was that I had to establish a blog of my own. I’m not at home in the Blogosphere. At all. However, since Pat Browning (ABSINTHE OF MALICE) beat me with a stick until I surrendered, I actually established my own blog. After a few mistakes, I even fixed it so that people can leave comments. I hope. More about this later.

Since I have that entire box full of ANCIENT SPIRITS ARCs, I’m going to be giving away three copies of that book for my September contest. I’m really worried about Daisy, my former winner-picking wiener dog. She’s completely blind now, and she’s having more and more trouble getting around, but I aim to keep her with me for as long as she can still stand and enjoy her kibble. Rosie has been filling in for her, picking wieners from the special contest doggie dish, but I think I’m going to have to train one of the youngsters to do the job. Unfortunately, both of the youngsters are idiots. Well . . . I’m doing Scrappy a disservice. He’s not an idiot; he’s high-spirited. I guess that’s the proper word for it, anyhow. The only problem with Scrappy is . . . I hate to admit this . . . he’s not a wiener dog! Honest to God, somebody called me in a panic about two years ago, begging me to come relieve him of this emaciated dachshund puppy he’d found abandoned at a dairy outside of town (Roswell’s full of dairies). So I capitulated, only to arrive at Scrappy’s destination to see this little scrap of a dog who has about as much dachshund in him as I do. Near as I can figure, Scrappy’s a cross between a miniature pinscher and a Chihuahua. Wish me luck training him.

Anyhow, if you’d like to enter my contest, please send me an email (alice@aliceduncan.net) with your name and home address. I’ll toss your name into my special contest doggie dish and, with luck, Scrappy will pick winners at the end of September. Providing he doesn’t eat them instead.

Hobbies and Classics

2011-08-30T09:42:00.002-04:00

Hobbies and Classics

I am going to ask the age old question..."What is your favorite hobby? Why do you like this hobby and is there a hobby you would

like to try that you haven't yet had time to actually work it in your schedule?

I am also asking you to tell us some of your favorite classic mysteries? What classic do you never tire of reading?

I really like the Nero Wolfe Series and of course Agatha Christie series. There are others I like but these series I

keep returning to in times of stress.

Every summer I reread Carolyn Hart's "Death On Demand Series" even though it's not yet considered a classic series.

I am finding more and more that I love taking the time to read vintage mysteries. In this genre I am still discovering new to me

authors.....

I think I will start the Ellery Queen Mysteries this fall......

Hugs,

Pamela

Review - The Nightmare Thief by Meg Gardiner

2011-08-25T08:41:00.002-04:00

The Nightmare Thief by Meg Gardiner is the 4th book in the "Jo Beckett" thriller series. Publisher: Dutton, July 2011

Autumn Reiniger expects something special for her twenty-first birthday. Daddy's already bought her the sports car, the apartment, and admission to the private college where she parties away her weekends. Now she wants excitement, and she's going to get it. Her father signs up Autumn and five friends for an "ultimate urban reality" game: a simulated drug deal, manhunt, and jailbreak. It's a high-priced version of cops and robbers, played with fake guns and fast cars on the streets of San Francisco. Edge Adventures alerts the SFPD ahead of time that a "crime simulation" is underway, so the authorities can ignore the squealing tires and desperate cries for help. Which is convenient for the gang of real kidnappers zeroing in on their target and a mammoth payday. Because what Daddy doesn't know is that someone has spotted his hedge fund's bulging profits, and the path to those riches runs right through Daddy's Little Girl. Working on a case nearby is forensic psychiatrist Jo Beckett and her partner Gabe Quintana. When the pair encounters a suspicious group of men carting six sullen college kids to the woods for a supposed wilderness adventure, alarm bells ring. Jo takes a closer look, and winds up with an invite to Autumn Reiniger's twenty-first birthday party—a party they may never leave.

This was a simple case of finding out how Phelps Wylie died. A chance run-in and in an instant Jo and Gabe are fighting for their survival as well as the kidnapped victims. This fast-moving, action-packed drama led us on a chase through the mountains in the Sierras. Who would survive? Who would triumph? Both Gabe and Jo skills were put to the forefront as they made their escape thwarting the efforts of their captors. Meanwhile, Evan Delaney and Amy Tang are doing their part by connecting the dots in their search for Jo and Gabe. This was an adrenaline-pumping, heart-pounding, thrill-a-minute ride that had me quickly turning the pages as I could not put this book down. This was the best book ever in this captivating and suspense-filled series.

Dru

http://notesfromme.wordpress.com

Terri's gift to Eryn

2011-08-25T08:41:00.000-04:00

Pamela's stitching finishes

2011-08-25T08:40:00.000-04:00

I Felt the Earth Move under my feet...

2011-08-24T09:42:00.000-04:00

Okay - I cant help hearing that song. LOL Actually it was a very weird experience. My office is a couple blocks from the White House and when the first (small) termor hit, it was like a wave. my firs tthought - was that an explosion? A Bomb? Natural I guess. Everyone is talking today about the anniversary of 9/11 and all, but that never crossed my mind. It was just proximity. But when the second wave hit (The 5.8 one) it was long and sustained and I knew it was an earthquake. that actually was a tiny relief really. After it stopped went out of my office and checking on others. All were asking was that an earthquake. But people were pretty cool. We are on the 3rd floor. The ones on the 12th floor were a lot more freaked out.

Of course we evacuated and now we hear that was the wrong thing to do. Live and learn. The weird thing is my coworker and I had been talking about natural disasters just Monday. not going to do THAT again... Why tempt fate?

Of course then there was the trip out of DC. Ugh. Subways were only going 15mph (and yes that is a good thing until they can inspect the damage) but with thousands waiting, I decided to walk out of the city. Pulled out the trusty sneakers, went to CVS and bought a quart of water and off I set. Hundreds were waiting at various bus stops, settling in for a long wait. most people seemed pretty calm and resigned to a slow commute. But people were talking to each other, sharing experiences and stories. It does bring us closer.

There really wasnt a lot of obvious damage. Bricks down, that sort of thing. A very good and lucky thing. I know there is damage but nothing catastrophic and I think we are all grateful for that.

Cells didnt work much - I had better luck with emails, keeping people informed and then they would reach out to other friends and family to let them know that they had heard from me. etc. By the time I started getting calls it was hours later.

So I walked. It was nice out. Mid 80s low humidity. All that helped. Others were also walking out the same way. By the time I got to the 14th street bridge out of the city, I ran into a pedicab who had just taken a group to National airport. I jumped in. My first pedicab experience. Bumpy but nice to get to rest. He had a very good point, when things like this happen, people come out to help. And by feet, by bike (I bet Capital Bikeshare memberships increased a lot now), by car and bus and cab through the gridlock, they inched out. And the subways, slow but steady. The guy took me to the park before the airport. I walked from there to the airport (another mile? two?) Not sure the distance really but I figured I could rest. I had my water, my kindle if I wanted to relax under a tree. The path is along th eGW parkway and I have to say it was calm and peaceful, you never would have know what had happened just a couple hours earlier.

And so, at the airport I got on the subway. Only about a 5 minute wait and then a very slow ride to the end of the line where I park. Slow but calm. I was impressed.

And once I got home, checked the house and the cat. some books had fallen, knick knacks. Nothing bad. A GLORIOUS shower and then I turned on the news to see how sensational it all was being reported. Nancy Grace (who I love) was over-the-top. And it all seemed so bizarre since everything I had seen was pretty calm. Felt an aftershock watching the tv and said a prayer that we were all safe.

And today I hum to Carole King! hugs to all my friends!

Terri

Review - Split Second by Catherine Coulter

2011-08-19T12:02:00.000-04:00

Split Second by Catherine Coulter is the 15th book in the “FBI” thriller series. Publisher: Putnam, July 2011

A serial killer is on the loose, and it's up to FBI agents Dillon Savich and Lacey Sherlock to bring him down. They soon discover that the killer has blood ties to the infamous and now long-dead monster Ted Bundy. Savich and Sherlock are joined by agents Lucy Carlyle and Cooper McKnight, and the chase is on. As the hunt for the serial killer escalates, Savich realizes he's become the killer's focus, and perhaps the next victim. It's up to Lucy to stop this madness before it's too late.

Dillon leads his team with three separate cases: one involving one of his agents who learn a family secret; second involving a serial killer running amok across state lines and third a case where he walked in on a robbery and now Dillon fears for the store owner’s life. Unwarranted deaths, secrets exposed, and love discovered are what lies in between the pages of this thrilling read that held my attention as the story unfolded in this wonderful series.

Dru,from dru's book musing

What does your car say about you?

2011-08-18T10:30:00.002-04:00

Does the kind of car you drive tell us more about you? Do the shoes you wear tell us more about you? What does it say about the personality of the person who reads mysteries? LOL What does it tell us about you concerning your favorite colors?

Well I drive an "Intrigue" it's white so if we strictly went by this I would be so vanilla I would be boring. My shoes are mostly causual shoes, tennis shoes or

sandals. This probably says I am practical and on the cutesy side (whatever that means), reading mysteries well this might be a better fit because I am mystery author and if I weren't a mystery author someone would probably have killed me off a long time ago. (LOL)....

Favorite colors are red which holds passion but not my tongue (especially when I am mad) I love green not only is this the color of my eyes but I like grass, green tree leaves and earthy types of things. Now I could stop here on the colors but I won't as I also like pink. I will admit to mostly medium pink but love love love pink flowers. I like blue like the tranquil blue waters but I can't pull off wearing turquoise. I also love light blue and cornflower blue. Yello actually does cheer me up and I like orange on my insane/zany days (now don't act like you don't have them too), and pumpkin oranges and wearing browns that is when I

know fall has arrived in my wardrobe. LOLOLOL Black is for my depressing or dress up days...gray can be part of fall or spring for me as I match this with

other colors.

Okay it's your turn to give us that little bit of insight............LOL

Cheers,

Pamela

Announcement

2011-08-16T14:04:00.001-04:00

ANNOUNCEMENT:

Dru Ann Love has joined Terri, Dorothy and myself on our blog. Dru with be posting reviews and I am hoping she will

post blogs or interviews from time to time.

Since Terri is very busy and I have health issues Dru is a blessing to us. As you can read Terri has posted Dru's first

review and she couldn't have chosen a better book. Laura Levine and her series are great for my 'mental health' and

overall well being. (LOL) anyway join us in welcoming Dru as we very happy to have her with us.

Dru also reads tons more books than I do especially since I am currently writing a short and a book.

Hugs,

Pamela

Review - Pampered to Death by Laura Levine

2011-08-16T08:49:00.000-04:00

Pampered to Death by Laura Levine is the 10th book in the “Jaine Austen” mystery series. Publisher: Kensington, August 2011

When Jaine's friend Lance surprises her with a trip to The Haven, an uber-luxe health spa on the California coast, she and her feline pal Prozac are eager to hit the road and bask in a week of pampering and pedicures. But upon their arrival, she discovers that this oasis in the hills is merely a fat farm in disguise, complete with celery-juice cocktails, humiliating weigh-ins, and a zero-tolerance position on carbs. And as she gets to know her fellow inmates, she realizes 300-calorie dinners aren't the craziest thing she'll be dealing with. Among her bulge-battling companions is Mallory Francis, a B-list movie star with a knack for making frenemies with everyone she meets. When she's found strangled during a seaweed wrap gone awry, Jaine is hard-pressed to think of anyone who couldn't have done it. Perhaps it was Kendra, Mallory's bitter sister-slash-personal assistant. Or maybe Clint, a macho former co-star whose dirtiest secret is in danger of being undressed in the drama queen's upcoming memoir. Or was it The Havens' pretty young masseuse, driven to commit a crime of passion when Mallory seduced her aerobics instructor husband Sven? With the suspects mounting faster than her hunger pangs, Jaine doesn't know who to believe. And when her search for truth, justice, and contraband calories leads her straight to the cold-blooded killer, it seems murder may be on the menu once again.

I love this series. Jaine is such a hoot as she fantasized about being pampered and eating fat-laden meals at the spa Lance gifted her when the reality is that Lance sent her to a fat-farm eating 900 calories per day. Her main goal become finding food but when one of the guest is murdered, Jaine who has appointed herself a part-time semi-professional P.I. starts investigating and the antics that she gets into is so hilarious. You really can't help but laugh at the internal dialogue that she has with her feline room-mate is such a joy. The bonus is of course of the email transmissions that she gets from her parents. This book is too darn funny.

Dru Ann L Love

dru's book musing / my quilts / Dru's Cozy Report (15th of the month)

Guest Blogger - Alice Duncan

2011-08-01T13:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I watched “The King’s Speech” (I know. I’m slow). Good movie! Not one I’m going to re-watch a gazillion times, but very good, and I loved the speech therapist guy, whose name I can’t remember.

This movie-watching thing got me to thinking about personal-favorite movies, books, and music. Often the movies, books and music I personally enjoy over and over again aren’t universally lauded in any “best of” lists, but I figured what the heck. Here, in no particular order, are a few of the movies I can watch endless times and never get bored:

Death on the Nile

The Magnificent Seven

Little Big Man

Jaws

Casablanca

The Big Sleep (Humphrey Bogart/Lauren Bacall version. Come to think of it, I’m not sure there is another version)

Chicago (even though, as my daughter Robin pointed out to me once, there’s not a likable character in it, which would kill a book for me. Go figure)

Topsy Turvy

The Pirates of Penzance (with Linda Ronstadt and Kevin Kline)

Books, again in no particular order, are:

The Amelia Peabody Emerson books, by Elizabeth Peters

The Roots of Heaven, by Romain Gary (this is probably my favorite book of all time, actually)

Half Magic, by Edward Eager

Little Witch, by Elizabeth Bennett

The Circular Staircase, by Mary Roberts Rinehart

The Window at the White Cat, by Mary Roberts Rinehart

Lonesome Dove, by Larry McMurtry (which reminds me of a writing workshop I took once, in which the group leader posed the question, “When is a western not a western.” Answer: “When it’s written by Larry McMurtry”)

Music is iffier, but here are songs I love, in absolutely no order whatsoever:

“Is That All There Is,” sung by Peggy Lee

“It’s a Wonderful World,” sung by Louis Armstrong

“Look What They’ve Done to My Song, Ma,” the New Seekers

“Blinded by the Light,” sung by Manfred Mann (hey, it’s my list, and I like his version better than the Boss’s)

“Time After Time,” Cindy Lauper

“I Guess that’s Why They Call It the Blues,” Elton John

“Love Stinks,” the J. Geils Band

Hmm. I’m sure there are others, but those will do. What about you guys? What are your favorites? They don’t have to be on anybody else’s list. These are personal favorites, and nobody gets to pick on you for them.

In other news, GENTEEL SPIRITS, the fifth Daisy Gumm Majesty book, is now for sale. Since it probably won’t show up in any brick-and-mortar store unless you request it, you can ask your local library to get a copy, and that would make me Very Happy. Or you can buy a copy for your very own self on-line or wherever! Whatta concept. The trouble with hardbacks is that they’re so blasted expensive. However, in a year I’ll put it up on Smashwords & Kindle, and then you can download it cheap. This is kind of the way it used to be with hardbacks and paperbacks. The hardback came out, and a year later, the book would be published in paperback. However, the times, they are a-changin’. Which is the title of another song I like.

Oh, and I picked up another couple of wiener dogs yesterday (this is why I watched “The King’s Speech,” in truth. These poor guys, Bella and Bam Bam, have been so grievously neglected in their short lives, they needed lap time and lots of it). It’s going to take quite a while before they’re comfortable in their new surroundings. Their owner surrendered them because he didn’t want to be bothered by them any longer. It appears to me he hadn’t wanted to be bothered by them for several years, but I won’t go into rant mode here.

And you can also enter my monthly contest! All you need to do to enter is send me your name and home address at alice@aliceduncan.net . I can’t remember which books I’m giving away this month, but you can see them (and even read excerpts) on my web site: www.aliceduncan.net

I’m looking forward to seeing everyone’s “favorites” lists!

Review- Miss DImple Disappears

2011-07-19T09:37:00.001-04:00

Title: Miss Dimple Disappears

Author: MIGNON F. BALLARD

Large Print Book

Publisher St. Martin's Press

Hard Cover

ISBN: 978-1-60285-961-6

Pages 365

It's 1942 in Elderberry, Georgia and grade school teacher Charlie Carr can't help thinking about her brother who has gone off to fight in the war. Fain and her were very close and her little sister who is expecting her first baby but lives in Texas and Charlie would love to be there for the birth of her niece or nephew. So the holidays are very close at hand which gives Charlie something more to concentrate on even though the holidays will be celebrated very differently this year.

However Charlie soon has more to worry about besides the holidays. First there is the death of the school janitor that starts to point towards murder. Then there is the disappearance of Miss Dimple the most beloved teacher that was even Charlie's grade school teacher. Then of course her own love life leaves a lot to be desired because Hugh Brumlow is going off to war. Charlie doesn't know how she feels about Hugh but he did leave a gaping hole in her heart. However there seems to be another interested party and that just complicates matters.

Charlie decides to see what she can find out about Miss Dimple and her friend Annie is all for some sleuthing. Unfortunately so is Charlie's mother and her Aunt Lou not to mention all the rumors and speculation and why anyone kidnap Miss Dimple.

Charlie's holidays are anything but dull and even in times of war she know there are no shortage of suspect and secrets.

MISS DIMPLE DISAPPEARS is wonderfully cozy. I didn't want the book to end because I've been waiting for a long long time to read a cozy of this calibur.

*********(9) stars........

Pamela

Mystery Monday

2011-07-18T13:56:00.001-04:00

Monday Mystery:

The only good thing I can say about this summer is that I am reading large print mysteries and so far I m happy to report I have discovered a couple good mysteries.

Most of you know I was in the hospital for almost a week but was released in time for my birthday which of course I mostly spent asleep.

Anyway what you may not know is my eye sight is just now returning to the better part of normal. To say the least the summer has been interesting....

My two good mysteries that I have read are: MISS DIMPLE DISAPPEARS by Mignon F. Ballard and this is set in 1942 in the united states. The setting is Elderberry, Georgia and all the young men in town have left for war.

Our main character's name is Charlie Carr and she is a school teacher. Anyway this a very cozy historical mystery and I hated to see it end.

The other mystery is PINNED FOR MURDER by Elizabeth Lynn Casey and is an excellent sewing mystery. You do not have to know anything about sewing to enjoy this book. The main character is a new Librarian in town and she is one of hte more believable main characters I have read.

Anyway this is how I have spent the past few weeks.....

My cross stitch has suffered but I actually did get to do some cross stitch yesterday evening. The "C" is now stitched and so is one coffee mug on my coffee pattern. I now just have to do the OFFEE and that many more coffee mugs plus charms. LOL

As you can tell I am feeling better. Soon I'll be my old self again.....

I kinda like dull typical days right now such as I have laundry going and fed the pets, watered the plants and have movie in....life is better again!

Hugs,

Pamela

Guest Blogger - Alice Duncan

2011-07-05T09:09:00.001-04:00

Happy Independence Day to all of us who live in the USA! And happy July to everybody in general!

You know, I was reading a book recently (KATHRYN: Days of Struggle and Hope, by Donna Fletcher Crow), and the book has renewed my wonder at the resilience of the people who settled the United States.

No matter what our country’s come to (and I can’t help but have the sinking feeling that we’ve passed our prime), you really have to honor the folks who came to the New World for whatever reason—and there were many reasons besides seeking freedom to express religious views without fearing retribution. In KATHRYN, Donna tells the tale of a young woman and her preacher father who leave the relative civilization of Nebraska to brave the desert nothingness of Idaho before there was any way to irrigate the land they attempted to farm. I think we sometimes forget how much people struggled to conquer a new land in order to gain independence and security for themselves and their families.

As a matter of fact, I wrote my very first published book, ONE BRIGHT MORNING, bearing the struggles of our forebears in mind. I used to get ghastly migraine headaches that knocked me out, sometimes for days at a time. Now migraine headaches aren’t anything new. Folks have suffered from them probably since humans first stood upright. But one day, whilst suffering the agonies of a migraine, I bethought myself of pioneer women, whose lives were hard enough to begin with. Would migraines visit those women, too? You betcha they would! And they, unlike me, wouldn’t be able to stay home in a dark room and collect sick pay. They’d still have to do all their regular daily duties, because if they didn’t, they’d die (and so would their families). Quite a consequence. So I wondered what would happen if a young widowed woman with an eighteen-month-old baby, living in the wilds of New Mexico Territory, woke up with a terrible migraine one morning only to have a gunshot stranger appear at her door. I mean, migraines aren’t fun at the best of times and in the best of places, and the NM Territory in the late 1800s was neither. Trust me on this.

Fortunately for Maggie Bright, the heroine of ONE BRIGHT MORNING, the gunshot stranger (Jubal Green) had a Mescalero Apache chum named Dan Blue Gully who always carried a supply of willow bark with him. After scaring Maggie nearly to death by appearing in her kitchen unannounced, Dan was able to help Maggie with her headache—and the patching up of Jubal Green. Things got dicey from there, but at least poor Maggie didn’t have that hideous migraine pain to deal with at the same time all hell was breaking loose around her.

By the way, one of the nicest things to happen to me as an author came about as a result of ONE BRIGHT MORNING. This nice thing didn’t have a thing to do with the book winning the HOLT Medallion, either (although it did). A bookseller in Nebraska was so taken with the book and the heroine that she named her new-born palomino colt Maggie Bright. I still get weepy when I think about that. The palomino Maggie Bright would be sixteen years old now. My, how time doth fly!

At any rate, sometimes I tend to whine about things. Okay, I often tend to whine about things. My so-called writing career is stalled, I’ve come to understand that I’ll never be able to make a living at writing, and that makes me sad. However, at least I have the time to write, and I can write whatever I want to write. Poor Kathryn or Maggie Bright wouldn’t have had the time or energy to write a book if they wanted to (fortunately for them, they didn’t). I honestly don’t know how our fore-mothers survived. Well, a whole bunch of ‘em didn’t, I guess. No wonder men didn’t want women to have the vote. If women had had independence and the means to make a living on their own, they’d probably have stayed home in civilization and let their husbands go out exploring without them. Wonder what the USA would look like if that had happened. As it was back then, women didn’t have much choice in the matter, so I suppose it’s idle to speculate.

Anyway, happy Fourth of July! And please enter my monthly contest. This month (providing my author copies arrive in time and don’t get blown away by a tornado like my author copies of FALLEN ANGELS did), I’ll be giving away three copies of GENTEEL SPIRITS, book #5 in my “Spirits” series, featuring Daisy Gumm Majesty. Just e-mail me at alice@aliceduncan.net and give me your name and home address. I’ll drop your entry into my special contest doggie dish. Rosie, who’s filling in as winner-picking wiener dog for the nonce, will gum up winners at the end of July.

Speaking of GENTEEL SPIRITS, a great and innovative man passed away in June. Dr. Martin Greenberg was a proponent of speculative fiction, particularly science fiction/fantasy. But if it weren’t for Marty and his widow Roz, many of us whose books (like my “Spirits” books) don’t fit neatly into the niches most publishers require of them would never have had our work published. R.I.P. Marty Greenberg: http://tinyurl.com/3p6efhh

Please feel free to read the first chapters of pretty much all my books at www.aliceduncan.net, and also feel free to buy my e-books at Kindle or Smashwords!

Guest Blogger - Barbara Colley

2011-06-24T10:52:00.000-04:00

Thanks so much to Terri and Pamela for thinking of me, and a belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Terri.

Birthdays in our family are special and a big deal. I have really fond memories of my childhood birthday celebrations--balloons, cake, ice cream, and lots of kids to play with. Then, there was my sweet-sixteen birthday party. My parents rented Hunter’s Playhouse, a building used for parties and such, and gave me a dance. No, we didn’t have a live band back then, but we had a juke box with all of the latest hits. Oh, and my present? My parents gave me a beautiful charm bracelet filled with charms of all of my favorite things. Ah, the memories . . .

When Pamela emailed me about being a guest on their blog, she asked me to give an update on what all has been going on with me. Of course everyone in the small town where I live were collectively holding their breaths over the past month. You see, I live about a mile, as the crow flies, from the banks (and levees) of the great Mississippi River. But other than the threat of flooding and hurricanes, I actually lead a rather boring but fulfilling life. For example, lately, my life has been filled with softball and baseball games. One of our granddaughters, Amanda, plays softball, and one of our grandsons, Christopher, plays baseball. I love both sports, so we try our best to make all of their games. No small feat, I’m here to tell you. This time of year in south Louisiana, between the high nineties temperatures and the heavy humidity, sitting out in the heat for even an hour is torture, but worth every minute just to see Amanda or Christopher get a good hit or make a great play. Then, there’s our sweet Bella, our newest grandchild. At least once a week I get the pleasure of babysitting her. Nine months old is such a precious age, and I could babble on and on about all of the cute things she does, but I guess I should talk a bit about what’s up with my writing career.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with my writing, I’m the author of the Charlotte LaRue mysteries, a cozy series about a maid who works exclusively in the New Orleans Garden District and just happens to have a knack for solving murders as well. The eighth book in the series, Dusted to Death, is now available in paperback, on Kindle, and on the Nook, as well.

After turning in the manuscript for Dusted to Death to my publisher, I was offered a contract for two more Charlotte LaRue mysteries. Unfortunately, due to a disagreement over the terms of the offer, I made one of the hardest decisions of my career, a decision that wasn’t made lightly and a decision that included a lot of anxious moments. I turned down the offer. I know that many of Charlotte’s fans were disappointed, and I’m truly sorry about that. Please know that my decision wasn’t made lightly and there were other, personal reasons, as well, that determined my decision.

It’s been almost two years since I turned in that last manuscript and I’ve toyed with the idea of “retiring” completely. Funny thing about that, though. There’s this character who has been nagging me lately. Her name is Annie Wilson. At first, I tried to ignore Annie, thinking she’d just go away. But, darn her hide, she’s proving to be a really stubborn woman. About two months ago, I finally gave in and wrote a short story about her. I thought by doing that, I could finally get rid of her. Only problem, all that the short story seemed to do was make her even more determined to have her own full-length book. Of course, I can be a bit stubborn too and have come up with all kinds of reasons why I can’t write right now. Hey, they are good reasons--remodeling my kitchen and cleaning out twenty years worth of paper and books from my office, which is no small feat, I’m here to tell you. Even worse, when I mentioned Annie to my agent, he actually liked her. Well, the kitchen is now remodeled (I love it), and I’ve almost got my office to the point where I can get to the computer once again, so I guess I’m running out of excuses. Of course you and I both know that just because I write a book about Annie, that doesn’t mean that a publisher will want it. Guess maybe a few rejections would be one way to shut Annie up, huh? Then again, what if a publisher actually wants to buy it? Then what? Then, I guess I’d be thrilled. You do know I’m kidding, don’t you? Of course I’d be thrilled. Even after sixteen published books, it still thrills me every time a publisher is interested in something I’ve written, and I would consider myself very blessed indeed to get an offer.

Let’s see now, I’ve covered personal and professional, so guess I’ve rattled on and on enough for one day. I’ll conclude by simply saying thanks for taking the time to read this, and just so you know, at this point in my life and my career, only time will tell.

Bio of Barbara Colley (June 2011)

Barbara Colley, a native of Louisiana, is an award-winning, best-selling author of sixteen novels. Her books have been published in over 17 foreign languages. In addition to her romantic suspense novels, she is also the author of the widely acclaimed Charlotte LaRue mystery series that's set in the New Orleans Garden District and features a maid who not only cleans Garden District mansions, but solves murders as well.

Barbara has won many awards as a published writer including: a nomination by Romantic Times BookClub for the 2003 Reviewer's Choice Award for Maid for Murder, her first Charlotte LaRue mystery, and the 1996 Distinguished Artist Award (for her outstanding contributions to the literary arts in Louisiana ). In March 2005, Barbara was named "Leading Business Woman of the Week" in the metro New Orleans area by Magic 101.9 radio station. Writing under her pseudonym Anne Logan, her romantic suspense novel, Gulf Breezes, won the 1992 Oklahoma RWA National Reader's Choice Award. Gulf Breezes also garnered the 1992 Romance Writers of America Published Author Network ARTemis Award for it’s outstanding cover art.

Barbara’s eighth Charlotte LaRue mystery, Dusted to Death, is available now in paperback at most bookstores, on Kindle, and on the Nook. To find out more about Barbara and her books, please visit her website: www.barbaracolley.com or follow her on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BarbaraLColley

Monday June 20, 2011

2011-06-20T12:57:00.002-04:00

Monday June 20th,2011

We have a birthday girl in the house today. Terri Parsons has a birthday today and so I am going to ask Terri what her birthday wish is for today?

"Terri what is your birthday wish"? LOLOL

What kind of birthday cake or dessert would you love to be eating right now?

Do you have a speical birthday book you would like to buy?

Who would you love to see us interview or see blog on here this week for your birthday?

Do you have a favorite birthday memory?

Last but never least did you have a favorite toy when you were young?

Hugs,

Pamela

Flavors

2011-06-16T14:11:00.001-04:00

FLAVORS:

If colors are supposed to improve our mood or reflect our mood then I think flavors define who we are and what we like. Lately I like Key Lime Pie and really love watermelon even the watermelon flavored slushies they have at Sonic or a nearby local stand.

Now lets take some of our favorite mystery characters and whether they are historical, vintage or modern characters tell us what type of flavor you think they are?

Paige Turner in the Amanda Matetsky 1950's series reminds me of Rocky Road Ice Cream because nothing comes easy for this girl. Nero Wolfe reminds me of Lemon anything just so he can pucker up his lips. LOL

You get my drift so let's have some fun with this one.

Hugs,

Pamela

Review: A Killer Crop

2011-06-16T14:00:00.000-04:00

Title: A Killer Crop
Author: Sheila Connolly
ISBN: 0425238261
Publisher: Berkely

Meg in the midst of her first apple harvest season when she comes home to find her mother unexpectedly sitting on her doorstep. Then the greater surprise is that her mother was visiting an old friend who has since turned up murdered in an usual location.
What I liked most about this book in the series was Meg's interactions with her mother. Their relationship evolves as a result of what is happening. And they have some really interesting conversations and moments.
I also enjoyed Meg's adaptation to physical work and her changing perspectives on her life.
My only frustration with the book was that I felt the mystery portion didnt do enough for me. There really weren't enough viable suspects or red herrings as I normally enjoy. But a strong story nonetheless and worth the read.

Terri

Review - Dial M for Murder

2011-06-16T13:47:00.002-04:00

TITLE: DIAL M FOR MURDER

AUTHOR: AMANDA MATETSKY

PUBLISHER: BERKLEY PRIME CRIME

Paperback mystery series

ISBN: 978-0-425-22050-4

Paige Turner is no sloucher in the crime department. She working for DARING DETECTIVE MAGAZINE, she solves crimes risking her own life and limb but the current case is a case where even she is hard pressed to figure out where to start and what to do to solve the crime.

Sabrina Stanhope is a very wealthy Madam and her employees are top of the line ladies. They could be models and many other things. However when her best employee Virginia Pratt is found murdered in a most gruesome way. Sabrina places a call to Paige Turner and tell her an interesting tidbit that three clients. All wealthy men in the limelight and one of course has mob connections (what else in the 1950's) and one is the District Attorney of New York City, last but never least one is her very own top of the food chain boss at Daring Detective.

It's actually no surprise that Paige gets fired (it is for her own good) and it's no surprise her boyfriend Detective Dan Street doesn't want her near the case. It should be a surprise to anyone that she is not only investigating the case but her best friend Abby has a fool proof plan to help solve the case.

With new shoes and old feelings of guilt Paige is going to solve this crime one way or another. Even if she has to become a detective to do it and even if she never gets to write this story.

DIAL ME FOR MURDER is a lot of fun to read. The series is great this book is the best and if you just want to revisit the 50's from fashion, to magazines to crime and the way men were back then you cannot go wrong with this series. This book is top notch and it is the most daring plot line yet....

Pamela James ***********

The Casey Anthony trial

2011-06-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

I have followed this case all along, and read the book Mommy's Little Girl by Diane Fanning as well. it is so sad. But I will say this trial is unbelieavble. Now mind you, she is entitled to the best defense by Jose Biaz (and I do beleive this) but the defense streches incredulity way past the breaking point for me. I do beleive she killed Caylee. I will say that upfront. But I would hate to be on the jury and listen for days on end to the lies she tells.

Even though we knew it was coming, the claims that her Caylee died accidently by drowning would have not been as bad as that she added the molestation charges against her dad and brother as well. AND that she says he dad made her lie to cover it all up. Which doesnt even make sense. Why would he and Cindy have reported the car and that Caylee was missing then.

And how does a grieving mother whose baby has died go partying and living it up without a care in the world?

We are to believe that her father's power over her was that all-emcompassing? PLEASE.....

Then they throw in the conspiracy with the meter reader who found the body? WHAT? How in the world does he jump into the conspiracy and why?

Then of course, the lies. The fake job, Zanny the non-existent nanny. That she was conducting her own investigation? Like anyone could believe that? And you investigate by parties and sex? Again - PLEASE...

And then yesterday, they refute the expert Body Farm testimony regarding decomp fluids in the trunk. Saying it was from raw hamburger or raw chicken? WHAT? Originally she said it was rotten pizza. Her story changes by the minute to suit her needs only by now how can anyone believe a word she says?

So it comes down to reasonable doubt. The defense seems to be throwing out as many possiblities as possibel hoping that one will stick enough to create the reasonable doubt. Of course, nothign I have heard so far has even come close to "reasonable" doubt. Just ludicrousness. The sad thing is that FL taxpayers have to finance all this.

So one wonders, what is next in Baez's magic hat of BS?

Terri

Clothes

2011-06-06T14:29:00.001-04:00

Clothes:

Okay today I am wearing an ankle length sundress and I can't tell you the last time I wore a dress. So let's talk about fashion and clothes today. Do you like to wear dresses? How often do you wear them? What clothes are your favorite ones? For me this sundress is one of my favorite dresses. I have several long flowing jackets that I like to wear. Now in the fall and winter I am a sweater girl. I love to wear a variety of sweaters and turtlenecks etc...I wear these mostly with jeans.

For me I really don't care much for slacks unless they flow too I don't really like the feel of slacks. When I have to wear slacks they are almost always black. I do wear a lot of capri pants as for some reason I feel a little more comfortable and I wear pedal pusher shorts from time to time.

Do you like for the author to describe what her character is wearing when you're reading about your main character? Where do you get your fashion tips from? Project Runway or Desperate Houswives, maybe The Talk or Oprah's show?

I really hate a lot of floral on blouses but I love and think everyone woman should have a little black dress or red dress. What retro look do you like and what retro clothes (if any) do you wear? I admit I love the tyedyed T-shirts...LOL....do you wear hats?

Shawls or capes?

Anyway tell us about clothes and what you do and don't like.

Hugs,

Pam

Review - A Crafty Killing

2011-06-06T09:43:00.001-04:00

A CRAFTY KILLING

Author: LORRAINE BARTLETT

A Victoria Square Mystery (First in a new series)

Berkley Prime Crime (paperback)

ISBN:978-0-425-23985-8

Katie Bonner can't seem to catch a break. Her boss at the insurance company can't seem to grasp the idea that Katie is not his personal emotional punching bag. However he ends up the least of her problems when Ezra Hilton is found murdered. Ezra was Katie's late husband (Chad) business partner. Chad unexpectedly dies in a car accident six months prior to Ezra being found at the bottom of the stairs with the back of his head bashed in. All in all not the way Katie expected her life to go let alone the fact Erza is a murder victim.

As Katie learns of her dire straights and the reality soon hits her that she must make a go of Artisans Alley because her own livlihood depends on her being not only manager but anything else needed to make the business a success. Ezra has also left a will that says Katie is to inherit half of everything and his nephew is none to happy to share half of anything with Katie. If this isn't bad enough all the crafters want things their way and the artist want things their way and all Katie wants is to be anywhere but there.

Katie must learn all she can about the crafters and the business owners on Victoria Square because her life might very well depend on it. As she tries to uncover a crafty killer, she also must work through her feelings about Chad and when she finds his journal his last words enlighten her to more than just his feelings but he helps her sort through the personalites behind the names of the booth owners at Artisans Alley. Between the heating system, the meetings, and trying to figure out Ezra's money problems, Katie becomes hungry for a slice of pizza, girl talk, warmth and understanding.

The crafters are unique, helpful and the artists have a lot at stake for their future but no one will be as happy as Katie if Artisans Alley can become a success.

None of this will be possible if she doesn't catch the person who wants Artisans Alley closed up and the key thrown away forever.

A CRAFTY KILLING by Lorraine Bartlett is the best mystery I have read all year. The plot is cleverly penned and the characters are friends I will want to visit over and over. Katie Bonner is my cup of tea and I only wish there was a real Artisans Alley and Victoria Square. Lorraine Bartlett knows what mystery readers want and she delivers with deep characters and a deft pen. I promise that if you delve into this book you won't want to put it down. Page after page is filled with the unexpected which makes this a really wonderful whodunnit.

I might add that I really care about Katie Bonner and her friend Rose.......

I give this review a ten.

Pamela James/reviewer

Let's Go to the Movies

2011-06-01T08:46:00.002-04:00

LET'S GO TO THE MOVIES:

Okay maybe not go to the movies. I watched movies at home this weekend. Here is what I watched and all were oldies but goodies.

1. Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull rated this one a (9)

2. Agatha Christie's The Man In The Brown Suit rated this one a (10) the highest I will give a movie.

3. Murder On The Orient Express rated this one (10) I don't give tens lightly

4. Working Girl rated (8) for just plain fun

5. A DVD of Pie In The Sky ( I rated the episodes all a (9) such a good series

6. Murder She Wrote South By Southwest Movie (rated this one a 7) not as good as some of her others but I do lik Mel Harris.

7. Sherlock Holmes Smarter Brother (rated this one a 8) what a fun movie to watch.

8. Uncle Buck (10) what can I say I loved the late great John Candy

9. Charlie Chan In Panama (10) loved it as I do all of his movies.

Okay how did you spend your weekend? What movies did you see? I didn't feel good on Saturday so I watched several movies Saturday along with the In Plain Sight Marathon and then Sunday watched a few then on Monday inbetween working outside I watched more movies. I didn't cross stitch as much as I wanted I think I never quite settled down enough to have smokin needles. I did cross stitch but like I said not every day.

Hugs,

Pamela

Guest Blogger - Alice Duncan

2011-05-31T09:02:00.002-04:00

May was a pretty bad month for me, with much more mayhem than magic, although a couple of good things happened.

The absolutely worst, most horrible thing to happen in May that my half-brother, Elbert H. Duncan, Jr., passed away. Al died on May 9. He was a wonderful man. A truly good person. He was already grown up when I was born, and my mom used to tell me that when I was a baby, Al would say, “Screech, Alice!” and I’d screech for him. Then we’d both laugh like maniacs. Drove my mom nuts, but it shows his sense of humor. Sigh. He was the last male of the Duncan line, at least this branch of it. I feel particularly bad for Al’s widow, Connie. Al and Connie were married for tons of years. More than forty, anyway. They were a wonderful couple, and I’m sorry Connie has to go it alone now, although the rest of us in the family are available for her any time. Al is going to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery on June 14, and I’d dearly love to go to the funeral. Unfortunately, further events during the mayhemly month of May will prevent that.

The next bad thing that happened was that my grandsons’ second-to-last Japanese relative died. Junko was their aunt, their late father’s older sister, and both Dai and Riki were saddened by her passing.

And then I learned that a childhood friend of mine, Chris Wolford, died. Chris had suffered from multiple sclerosis for several years, although her husband said she seemed to be doing pretty well. But the MS interfered with her breathing one night, and she died in her sleep. Chris had suffered many losses in her life, including that of her son and her first husband (who died of a stroke). But she and her second husband had twenty-two happy years together, and they fostered many, many children. I’m sure Paul and the kids are floundering without her.

All of that happened in one single week, one of the worst weeks of my life. Phooey.

Also, the author copies of my May release, FALLEN ANGELS, have evidently been abducted by aliens, because I don’t have them yet. I’m scheduled to appear on a panel in Rio Rancho on June 7, and I don’t know what I’ll do w/o the books. By the way, if you happen to be in Rio Rancho, NM, on June 7 and want to pop over to the Esther Bone Memorial Library, the panel will begin at 6:30 p.m. The address is 950 Pinetree Road, Rio Rancho, NM, and the phone number (should you want to check up on this) is 505-891-5012. I’d love to see a person or two there. I’ll bring some other books with me if FALLEN ANGELS doesn’t arrive on time.

And THEN I went to have a bone-density scan, they measured me, and I’ve shrunk THREE WHOLE INCHES! What the heck???? The results of the scan were good. My bones are as dense as iron rods. But where did those three inches go? Heck, I started out at only 5’3”. Now I’m barely five feet tall. Ain’t fair. Must be the degenerative disc disease, huh? Sheesh. No wonder my back hurts all the time. I’m falling apart from the inside.

Not only that, but my darling Daisy, who’s been my winner-picking wiener dog for lo, these many years, is now blind as a bat. I’m going to have to train a new winner-picking wiener dog. Giblett can’t do it, because he’d gnash the entries to death, and I’d never be able to read them. Skipper can’t do it, because he’d just stand there over the special contest doggie dish and whine for food. Maybe Rosie can be the new winner-picking wiener dog. She’s got cataracts, too, but she might be able to fill in for a while. I suppose Scrappy could pick the winners, but he’s not a wiener dog, and that will never do. There’s always Heidi, but she’s a little bit of a drama queen, and I’m not sure she’d be a perfect fit. Poor Daisy. She’s in pretty good health (although she’s getting her teeth cleaned next week) except for her cataracts. I guess cataracts happen to all of us if we live long enough.

One good thing happened. Naturally, it was followed by another bad thing. I got a really big (for me) Kindle royalty payment in May. The very next day, my hot-water heater went kaput, so all but $36 of that Kindle payment went to buy a new hot-water heater. Which means, of course, that I don’t have enough money to attend my brother’s funeral. Sometimes life just sucks.

Anyhow, here’s hoping June is a better month than May was. Couldn’t get much worse, I guess. I’ll be giving away copies of some Rachel Wilson (Rachel’s me in disguise) paranormal historical romances in June, so if you’d like to enter my contest, feel free to e-mail me your name and home address at alice@aliceduncan.net

I’ll get copies of May’s contest book, FALLEN ANGELS, as soon as I get my copies!

Oh, and every single one of my e-books is on sale during the month of June! You can get any book of mine you want for $0.99! You can get them for your Kindle (http://aliceduncan.net/page5.html) or for any other e-reading device you have—Nook, Sony, Apple, whatever (https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/aduncanzianet). Heck, you can buy all 32 of them, and only spend $32.00. Whatta deal!

Visit my web site at http:aliceduncan.net to see all about my books.

My Week

2011-05-26T08:46:00.002-04:00

MY WEEK:

This week started on Sunday as a typical Sunday. There wasn't anything unusual and then Sunday afternoon came and all hell broke loose. Firt they prediced we would have a tornado headed for Parsons as it was by McCune coming our way. Later we received hail from golfball size to baseball size. Our cars did receive some hail damage. Lots of rain storms etc....but nobody could imagine what happened next as the storm moved from us (without the tornado) to one hour from us on the Mo side there was a tornado. Not your small hopping around tornado but the large staying put damning tornado that took lives, businesses, homes, pets and much much more.

This week slowly we learned we have everyday heroes, people are helping with the aftermath, organizations are taking donations, students are helping and I am veryvery proud of the midwest. As of right now we know that there 124 dead and hundreds are missing. 14,000 people are without electric and nobody who went through the tornado, saw the devastation, those helping, reporting and forecasting will ever ever forget this horror.

Last night tornado sirens off in Joplin and this time it was a false alarm. I only hope they all continue to be false alarms as we finish with spring and go into summer.

If this isn't enough then my daughter calls me at noon today to tell me she is safe. I asked what she meant by "safe" a tornado touch down by where she works in Overland Park, Ks/Mo today and she had spent the past hour in the hallways of her office building. Then she told me it was headed for Blue Springs, Mo and she would let me know about her family. My son called and he checked in and FINALLY she called. I can report that all is fine but as a mother and grandmother I spent the better part of today either praying or with a lump in my throat. The folks in Sedalia. Mo were not so lucky because while Blue Spring was spared there was a tornado that touched down and did damage in Sedalia, Mo.

Now as many of you know we were in a tornado in 2000 and we lost a lot but we had eachother and avery good friend of mine helped me out or I do not know what would have happened to us. it happens fast and furious and Joplin's was an F5 Tornado which is as bad as you can get and our in 2000 was only an F3 and I still have my unsettling moments. Today being one of them last Sunday being the other one.

What I want to say is hug your, child, tell your spouse you love them (I know it sounds corny but do it anyway) call that friend you miss so much, see people do things because we are not promised anything but this moment. If you have favorite author tell them they're your favorite author. I don't mean to be a downer I just want all of you ro know how much Terri and I love and appeciate you. Whether your a friend, author, cyberfriend, stitcher, mother daughter etc... we love you and thank you for your support.

BTW Carolyn Hart, Lorraine Barrett, Elaine Viets, Leslie Meir, Mary Daheim, Laura Lavine, Nancy Cohen, Susan McBride, Carolyn Dunn, Emily Brightwell,Joanne Pence, Lisa Scottoline, Selma Eichler you're all my favorite authors. There are more but I don't want to PR this piece just want you to know if Idie I'm taking your books with me just in case there is an afterlife and they won't give me a library card I'll have something to read.

Love,

Pamela

Review - How to Marry a Murderer

2011-05-13T16:43:00.002-04:00

TITLE: HOW TO MARRY A MURDERER

AUTHOR: AMANDA MATETSKY

Publisher: Penquin

Cozy Mystery Series

Paperback

ISBN:0-425-20400-6

Paige Turner is a crime magazine reporter, a mystery novelist, a girl friday at Daring Detective Magazine and of coure girlfriend to Dan Street a New York Homicide Detective. So when famous actress Ginger Allen asks Paige to find the person who is trying to murder her before the said person gets the deed done Paige is shocked that Ginger Allen wants HER to find the person.

What soon becomes apparent is only a hand full of people does Ginger trust to a around her and only a finger full of people can stand Ginger. Not only is Ginger very demanding and hard to work with and if anyone thinks themselves entitled to have tantrums it's Ginger.

More to the point Ginger uses people and there is no shortage of suspects when Ginger takes flying leap off of the top of the penthouse balcony. The police say it's suicide but Paige is not so sure and she does feel gulity about Ginger's death.

This is a definite must -read mystery. Set in the 50's when it was a man's world and set in the glamour of tv and movie stars this mystery cozies up to gossip, love affairs, money, madness and a quite a few laughs.

Paige Turner is my kind of sleuth and she definitely has us turning page after page. Just wait until you get a load of her best-friend Abby's new boyfriend and his poetry. It's quite a ride to solving this crime and what poor Paige endures at the hands of her coworkers well let's just say there is a reason we call a dog "Man;s best friend".

Oh and did I mention there is a dog in this story?

Anyway I think if you have not found this series then by all means let me introduce you to Sassy Paige Turner and her lively investigations.

This book receives 10 out of 10 stars.

Pamela

Calling all Authors

2011-05-13T16:06:00.000-04:00

CALLING ALL AUTHORS:

Okay how do you do it? What am I talking about you ask? Well how do you keep a writing schedule from one day to the next while doing housework? How about errands, keeping up with family and other writing obligations? How do you do it? I ask, because for two weeks I have been trying to keep a writing schedule and I can ignore the phone (at least I have retrained myself to do this part) but when the laundry is piled up, bills need paying, floors and pets need attention, plants nad flowers need watering and the whole meal thing plus we always want a clean bathroom....

How do you divide your time? Are you an early morning writer? A night writer? Are you up and down all day/ all night?

Tell me how to handle this because after four books and zillions of interruptions to my day I am no better at it than I was the first book. This is not acceptable but until I have a contract that needs fulfilled I need help on how to handle this crazy schedule we call a "Writing Schedule", so HELP and no I am not whining I am merely needing suggestions and advice.

I need advice from authors who have been there done that....LOL

Hugs,

Pamela

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-06T12:14:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to wish all of our readers and bloggers a very happy, safe and healthy Mother's Day. Let's all remember our mothers and if you're a mother whether it be a mother of fur babies or children enjoy your quality time this weekend.

I hope the weather is beautiful and books are pentiful. Maybe you can grab some quality time with a great book.

Me, I'll be on the road but thinking of everyone as we travel to Kansas City and this is Lady Mystery's first road trip. She loves car rides so we will see how she likes long car rides.

May your heart bloom this Sunday,

Hugs,

Pam

guest Blogger - Alice Duncan

2011-05-03T09:17:00.000-04:00

It’s May! It’s May! The merry month of May! Cue “Camelot” music here. If anybody besides me even remembers “Camelot.” Shoot, I’m old. Oh, well…

Not only is May a merry month, but it’s also the month FALLEN ANGELS will be published. This is the third book in my cozy historical mystery series featuring Mercedes Louise “Mercy” Allcutt, who left her Boston ivory tower to move to the wild and woolly west, where she got a job working for private detective Ernest Templeton. Both of these actions (moving West and getting a job) are deplored by Mercy’s mother. On the other hand, Mercy’s mother pretty much deplores everything Mercy does, so Mercy’s [almost] used to it.

Here’s a little blurb about FALLEN ANGELS:

Transplanted Boston Brahmin, Mercy Allcutt, has had some very exciting times as secretary to private investigator, Ernie Templeton. While it’s true she’s been in what she considers a wee bit of trouble (and Ernie considers out-and-out danger) a time or two, she’s determined to continue learning the ways of the “real” world.

However, when she sets out to find her wandering boss, Ernie, one hot September afternoon, she not only discovers a corpse, but she also finds Ernie, bound and gagged. Worse, when the police arrive to investigate the crime, they peg Ernie as the killer.

Well, Mercy isn’t about to let them get away with that, no matter how many times Ernie tells her to butt out of the police inquiry. The only question is whether she’ll survive her investigatorial efforts once again, or if she’ll become one more “Fallen Angel.”

As you can see, Mercy’s up to her knickers in the soup again, but that’s okay. She knows how to swim.

In this book I fashioned a church for Mercy to attend (in the hunt for clues). I wanted it to be representative of the Foursquare Church of God, founded by Aimee Semple McPherson, but I didn’t want to use those names, mainly because my publisher would never let me get away with it. Also, I have absolutely nothing against the Foursquare Church of God and think Ms. McPherson is a fascinating character in her own right. So I had Mercy attend the fictional Angelica Gospel Hall and meet its charismatic leader, Adelaide Burkhard Emmanuel. She gets to meet lots of other folks in her search to clear Ernie’s good name (what’s left of it), too.

The reviews have been pretty nice so far, by the way. Even Kirkus (which isn’t known for its soft heart), kind of liked it: “A young Boston Brahmin finds a fulfilling new life among the private eyes and criminals of Los Angeles. [bunch of words I cut out here, but it’s only plot stuff] Mercy's third appearance combines a nice feeling for life in 1920s Los Angeles.”

Publisher’s Weekly was not so kind: “Upper-crust Bostonian Mercy Allcutt, who works as a secretary for policeman-turned-PI Ernest Templeton, walks a fine line between endearing naïveté and annoying simplemindedness in Duncan's by-the-numbers third cozy set in 1920s Los Angeles.”

You can’t win ‘em all. However, other people have enjoyed it. Read on:

“The suspense is top-notch in the latest Mercy Allcutt book, and the humor between Mercy and her snooty Boston mother is hysterical. The theatrical world of L.A. is extremely fun and the feelings of love growing between Mercy and Ernie are getting stronger with each book. A great cozy mystery,” Romantic Times Book Reviews

Take that, PW! And then there’s this one:

“FIVE STARS! I love how the author writes this series. Each case is told from the rich/privileged secretary's point-of-view. [cut, cut, cut] If you are looking for a classic-style mystery to test your wits on, look no further. Alice Duncan's stories simply burst with flavor. Excellent!” Huntress Book Reviews

So that’s nice, too. I understand Booklist will review the book favorably, too, which makes me happy. No word yet on Library Journal. It blows me away, however, that these prestigious review mags are all of a sudden reviewing MY books. Go figure. Maybe it’s because they’re coming out in hardback. I have absolutely no idea, but I like it. Even when they trash my books, I can’t help but giggle a little. THESE snooty magazines are reviewing MY books! Wowzers.

Anyhow, I know I’ve said this before, but Mercy Allcutt was more or less a consolation prize for me when I thought my “Spirits” books, featuring Daisy Gumm Majesty, were lost to me. However, I’ve come to enjoy Mercy in her own right, and I hope others do to.

During my May contest, I’ll be giving away three copies of FALLEN ANGELS, so if you’re interested in having your name thrown in to Daisy, the winner-picking wiener dog’s, special contest doggie dish, just e-mail me your name and home address (alice@aliceduncan.net). And if you want to read the first chapter of the book, feel free to go here: http://aliceduncan.net/page6.html .

By the way, Daisy (the dachshund) is feeling her age, and is now almost completely blind. I feel very bad about this. Not that I suffer from a paucity of wiener dogs, but I love Daisy dearly and hate it that she’s probably approaching the end of her life. Sniffle. It hurts to know that I’ll have to train another member of my herd to be the winner-picking wiener one of these days. Give your dog (if you have one) an extra pat for Daisy, please. And if you don’t have a dog, pet your cat. And if you don’t have a dog or a cat, go to the nearest shelter and adopt one, for Pete’s sake! I have an almost-totally depressing story about a rescued dachshund I took in during April, but I’ll spare you her story. If you’re a Facebook friend of mine, you can read all about Mocha’s travails, but I thought I’d try to make May’s blog a happy one.