June Mini Reviews!

Hi, everyone! I'm posting June mini reviews today of a bunch of books. Here we go!

The Beast and The Bookseller by Eva Devon

I really enjoyed reading this historical romance! I liked the romance between the two leads, and I thought the plot was good. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Chaperone by M Hendrix

I thought this was an interesting YA Dystopian read! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Girls and Their Horses by Eliza Jane Brazier

This was a really good mystery/suspense novel that I enjoyed reading! Overall, I would definitely recommend reading!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ms Perfectly Fine by Kate Callaghan

I thought this was a nice contemporary adult romance! There was good chronic pain rep in the book, and I always appreciate that. The romance was great! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Everyone Wants to Know by Kelly Loy Gilbert

I thought this was an interesting YA novel, that I would would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Bookshop Cinderella by Laura Lee Guhrke

This was a great historical romance! I really liked the couple in this one, and I liked the bookish aspects of the book as well! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

And Break the Pretty Kings by Lena Jeong

I really enjoyed reading this book! It was an excellent debut fantasy, and I look forward to whatever else this author writes. The  characters, writing, and plot were all great. Overall, iI would definitely recommend this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Those We Drown by Amy Goldsmith

This was a terrifying read, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Night It Ended by Katie Garner

This was a really interesting thriller/suspense novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who think the plot sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales

This was a fun historical mystery that was such a mash up of different genres, that I enjoyed reading! I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Charlotte Illes Is Not a Detective by Katie Siegel

The premise of this one was really fun! And I thought it was a good read! The mystery was well done. Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

We Ship It by Lauren Kay

I thought this was a great YA summer read, that also touches on some serious topics. And I think the cover is really cute! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

How the Murder Crumbles by Debra Sennefelder

I thought this was a great beginning to a new cozy mystery series, with a fun premise! Overall, I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Kismat Connection by Ananya Devarajan

I thought this was a really good YA read! I liked the characters, and thought it was well written. Overall, I would definitely recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Mini Reviews (YA Edition)!

Hi, everyone! Today is going to be mini reviews, featuring YA books from the past few months. Here we go!

Lying in the Deep by Diana Urban

This was a great YA mystery/suspense novel! The plot and characters were well written. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Renaissance of Gwen Hathaway by Ashley Schumacher

This was a good YA novel, with a fun setting, that touched on some serious topics! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Silver in the Bone by Alexandra Bracken

This was a really good YA fantasy novel, that had a fascinating plot! Overall, I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Queen Bee by Amalie Howard

This was an entertaining YA regency read, with great characters! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Tell Me What Really Happened by Chelsea Sedoti

This was an interesting YA mystery, told in a unique way. Overall, I would recommend to those who think the summary sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Fake Dates and Mooncakes by Sher Lee

This was a fun YA romance, featuring my favorite trope, fake dating! It was well written, and the characters were great. Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Lake House by Sarah Beth Durst

This was a terrifying YA thriller, that would be perfect to read when you want to scare yourself!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Picture-Perfect Boyfriend by Becky Dean

This was a fun YA summer read, with a cute romance and fun characters! I liked how the main characters family played such a big role, and I liked the plot. Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Something More by Jackie Khalilieh

This was a good YA read, with great autistic rep! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou

I thought this was a really interesting and unique YA fantasy novel! I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Plus One by Kelsey Rodkey

I enjoyed reading this contemporary YA novel! The plot was fun, and the characters were good. And I always love plus-size rep in books! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Hot Dutch Daydream by Kristy Boyce

This was a fun YA read that's perfect for summer! The characters were great. Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Midyear Book Freakout Tag!

Hi, everyone! I'm filling out my answers to the Midyear Book Freakout today.

best book you’ve read so far this year?

I've had good luck with books this year, and read some really great books! But my answer for this one is In Myrtle Peril by Elizabeth C. Bunce. It released towards the end of 2022, and I saved it to be my first read of 2023, because I just knew I would love it. And I was right!

best sequel you’ve read so far this year

Okay, I could say In Myrtle Peril again, but for this answer I'm going to go with Curds of Prey by Korina Moss, which is the 3rd book in the Cheese Shop Mysteries. I love this cozy series!

BUT I also want to mention A Love by Design by Elizabeth Everett, which was the 3rd (and final) book in The Secret Scientists of London series. I love all three books in this series so much, and I had to mention this final novel. (Also, I can't wait for Elizabeth's new series beginning next year!)

new release you haven’t read yet but want to?

*laughs* There are A LOT of new releases I haven't read yet! BUT if I have to name just one.... *goes to look at Goodreads TBR shelf* I'm going to go with When You Wish Upon a Lantern by Gloria Chao, who is one of my favorite YA authors. I really look forward to reading it!

most anticipated release for the second half of the year?

Now after the first question I answered, you all know I have to say Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity by Elizabeth C. Bunce, which is the final (*insert sound of sobs*) book in the Myrtle series, and releases in October. I can't wait!

I also have to mention The Blonde Identity by Ally Carter! I grew up reading the Gallagher Girls books, and when I saw she was releasing an adult romance spy novel?? *heart eyes* I just know it's going to be so good. (releases in August!)

biggest disappointment?

I don't want to answer this question...

*skips to next one*

biggest surprise?

I'm going to say All Alone with You by Amelia Diane Coombs. It was a really good surprise! I went into it with really no expectations, because while I thought it sounded good, I didn't know much about it. And I ended up absolutely loving it! I can tell you this is now one of my favorite YA novels.

favorite new author (debut or new to you)?

This is a really difficult question to answer! I've read a lot of debut books this year, and also just a lot of authors who were new to me. I think I'm going to go with... No, I can't decide!

newest fictional crush?

There have been a few this year, but I really loved Ben from Summer Reading by Jenn McKinlay!

newest favorite character?

Pet from Codename Charming Lucy Parker! She was a delightful, quirky character that I loved reading the POV from. (And fun fact: Her love interest, Matthias, was who I almost answered the previous question with!)

book that made you cry?

There have been... a lot. But I'm going to go with It Found Us by Lindsay Currie. I don't want to spoil anyone, so I'll just say there was something towards the end of the book that made me cry. (I also just want to say that this was another wonderfully spooky book by Lindsay Currie!)

book that made you happy?

Woo Hoo! You're Doing Great! by Sandra Boynton! Her books made me so happy when I was little (And they still do! I read her books now, and I still love them.), and this book just made me happy.

most beautiful book you have acquired this year?

I haven't bought many physical copies of books this year...

what books do you need to read before the end of the year?

A lot. Like, a lot. *hides Goodreads TBR shelf from you all*

content creators you've been loving?

Besides all the blogs I still read, I've really been obsessed with booktube this year. A few of my favorite content creators there are Alexandra Roselyn, Haley Pham, katie is reading, megwithbooks, and oliviareadsalatte. I highly recommend all of their channels!

There we go! My answers to the tag. Now, tell me: What books have been your favorite so far this year? And if you watch booktube, who are your favorite creators there? :)

Mini Reviews (Contemporary Romance Edition)!

Hi, everyone! In my quest to catch up on books I need to review, we are focusing on contemporary romance today!

A Guide to Being Just Friends by Sophie Sullivan

I think Sophie Sullivan always writes excellent contemporary romance, and this new book was no different! Great characters, and a good romance. I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Just My Type by Falon Ballard

I loved Lease On Love by this author, and I was really looking forward to this book! And I really enjoyed it! A great romance, and well written. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Plus One by Mazey Eddings

This was a good contemporary romance novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who enjoyed Mazey's previous books!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Last Word by Katy Birchall

This was a well written romance novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Emma of 83rd Street by Audrey Bellezza & Emily Harding

I quite enjoyed this retelling of Emma! I thought both Emma and Knightley were good characters, and I liked the other people we meet in the novel as well. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Not That Kind of Ever After by Luci Adams

This was an interesting contemporary romance, that I would recommend try to those who are curious about it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez

I thought this was a well written romance, with great characters! And I loved the anxiety rep in it. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Only Game in Town by Lacie Waldon

This was a good contemporary romance, with a unique premise! I really enjoyed reading it. Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ana Takes Manhattan by Lissette Decos

I thought this was a good romance, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ellie Is Cool Now by Victoria Fulton and Faith McClaren

This book had a fun premise, and I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Double-Decker Dreams by Lindsay MacMillan

I loved the setting of this book, and I liked the plot of it! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Gigi, Listening by Chantel Guertin

This was a fun contemporary romance, with a bookish main character! Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Take the Lead by Alexis Daria

A great romance for DWTS fans, I would definitely recommend trying this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Real Love by Rachel Lindsay

I enjoyed reading this book, and I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Do-Over by Suzanne Park

I love Suzanne Park's books, her sense of humor always makes me laugh! This was another great book by her, that I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

One Hot Cowboy Wedding by Carolyn Brown

This was a good cowboy romance, that I would recommend to anyone who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

He's My Cowboy by Diana Palmer, Rebecca Zanetti, & Delores Fossen

I thought all three of the novellas were really good, and I don't think I could pick a favorite! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Falling Hard for the Royal Guard by Megan Clawson

This was a cute rom-com that I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Leave It to the March Sisters by Annie Sereno

I thought this was a good book! Even if you've never read Little Women (I knnnooww! I did see the movie years ago, but I've never read the book), I think you're able to enjoy it. I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

More Mini Reviews!

Hi, everyone! Here are some mini reviews to help me catch up even more. And we're focusing on Historical Romance today!

A Spinster's Guide to Danger and Dukes by Manda Collins

This was another fantastic historical romance/mystery novel from Manda Collins! Her books are always a fun read, and I quite enjoyed this newest one. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Artfully Yours by Joanna Lowell

This was a really unique historical romance, that I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Counterfeit Scoundrel by Lorraine Heath

This was a great historical romance novel from Lorraine Heath! The plot was unique. I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Hotel of Secrets by Diana Biller

This was a really unique historical romance with great characters! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Yours Truly, The Duke by Amelia Grey

I really liked this one! The characters were great, and I liked the ending. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Countess by Sophie Jordan

This was a great beginning to a new historical romance series that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Duke's Secret Cinderella by Eva Devon

This was a great take on the Cinderella fairytale, that I enjoyed reading! Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Portrait of a Duchess by Scarlett Peckham

I thought this was a unique historical romance novel, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Four Weddings and a Duke by Michelle McLean

I quite liked this one! The characters were great, and I loved reading about their growth throughout the book. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

What Happens in the Ballroom by Sabrina Jeffries

I think Sabrina Jeffries writes fantastic historical romance, and this one was no different! The characters were great, and I look forward to the next book. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

How to Best a Marquess by Janna MacGregor

This was another great book from Janna MacGregor! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Lady Knows Best by Susanna Craig

I love the premise of this series, and I thought this first book was great! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

No Life for a Lady by Hannah Dolby

I thought this was a unique historical novel with a mystery aspect to it! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Earls Rush In by Jennifer Haymore

I thought this was a good historical romance, that I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Husband List by Ella Quinn

I really like Ella Quinn's romance novels, and this one was no exception! I quite enjoyed it, and would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Duke Gets Even by Joanna Shupe

I thought this was a good historical romance, and I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Practice Makes Perfect!

Review: Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams

Annie Walker is on a quest to find her perfect match-someone who nicely compliments her happy, quiet life running her flower shop in Rome, Kentucky. Unfortunately, she worries her goal might be too far out of reach when she overhears her date saying she is "sounbelievably boring." Is it too late to become flirtatious and fun like the leading ladies in her favorite romance movies? Maybe she only needs a little practice...and Annie has the perfect person in mind to become her tutor: Will Griffin.

Will--the flirtatious, tattooed, and absolutely gorgeous bodyguard--is temporarily back in Rome, providing security for Amelia Rose as excitement grows for her upcoming marriage to Noah Walker. He has one personal objective during his time in town: stay away from Annie Walker. But no sooner than he gets settled, Will soon finds himself not only breaking his rule, but tasked with far more than simply providing security.

Will wants no part in changing the sweet and lovely Annie, but he can't bring himself to say no to her request, so he officially agrees to teach her how to be the next leading lady of Rome, Kentucky, and find the love of her life-even if he doesn't believe in love himself. Between faking a relationship so the meddling town doesn't catch on to what's really happening on their practice dates, and tutoring lessons that convince Annie to add passion to her list of must-haves in a mate, it doesn't take long for the lines of their friendship to blur...

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: I loved this book! Annie and Will were absolutely adorable together, and I loved getting to read about their growth throughout the book. I loved getting to see all the characters from the first book set in Rome, WHEN IN ROME. I just don't know how to express how much I loved this book?? If you love Contemporary Romance novels, I highly recommend this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Blog Tour: Play For Me - Review!

Play for Me by Libby Hubscher

When her new job takes her to a New England boarding school, she’s surprised to find her roommates are all men – including a very handsome one who plays by his own rules. 

Sophie Doyle has her dream job as the head athletic trainer for her favorite baseball team (go Red Sox!), a handsome boyfriend, and easy access to the finest cannoli in Boston. When she loses all three and the World Series to boot, she’s forced to apply for the open trainer position at an arts-focused boarding school in New Hampshire. The only available room is a glorified closet in an apartment with three guys: Jonas Voss, the aloof and attractive orchestra teacher, and his two rambunctious roommates.

Sophie knows that training a bunch of privileged high school kids whose idea of a play is A Chorus Line instead of a walk-off homer is going to be a big change from the pro athletes she’s used to. She wasn’t expecting that these students would have big-time talent and even bigger-time problems. Sophie has troubles of her own—Jonas is a full-fledged grump who clearly doesn’t want her near him or the precious piano he never plays.

With sunny optimism, Sophie sets out to win over Jonas and help the kids she’s growing attached to. But when her relationship with Jonas moves to the major leagues and plans change at the end of the season, they have to choose whether they are playing for keeps.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: I absolutely loved this book! Sophie was a fantastic main character, and I loved reading about her growth throughout the book, and her realizing what her dreams really were. And Jonas!! I loved him. His romance with Sophie, and how their relationship grew throughout the book was really lovely. And my heart broke for him with how his life had been when he was young. I loved Sophie's relationship with her father, and her best friend. Sophie and Jonas' roommates were great. And the ending made me smile so much! Overall, I would highly recommend this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Mini Review Round Up!

Hi, everyone! These are just a few mini reviews of books I've read in the past few months!

The Sprite and the Gardener by Rii Abrego & Joe Whitt

This was a beautifully illustrated graphic novel! All the character designs were really good. Overall, I would recommend to people who think it looks good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

How Not to Marry a Duke by Tina Gabrielle

I really enjoyed reading this historical romance! I liked the characters, and the plot. I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Said No One Ever by Stephanie Eding

This was a fun, entertaining read! I loved the plot the characters, and there were truly funny moments in the book. Overall, I would definitely recommend reading this adult contemporary romance!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

One Night with the Duke by Jodi Ellen Malpas

I thought this was an interesting historical romance, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Lia Park and the Heavenly Heirlooms!

Review: Lia Park and the Heavenly Heirlooms by Jenna Yoon

Perfect for fans of the Gifted Clans and Aru Shah series, this thrilling second book of the middle grade fantasy Lia Park series sees Lia and Joon on a mission to protect important magical objects—and themselves—from a mysterious enemy.

Twelve-year-old Lia Park and her best friend, Joon, are now full-time students at International Magic Academy after defeating corrupt diviner Gaya, and their first assignment is an ambitious one. The evil nine-headed monster and King of Darkness, Jihaedaegukjeok, wants to destroy the three Heavenly Heirlooms that create fire and light to plunge the world into darkness and destroy humanity.

The heirlooms can only be destroyed if they are all together, so over time, they have been hidden carefully with magic. Except now, one of them is missing. Lia, Joon, and their classmates have been tasked with recovering the lost heirloom and bringing it to IMA for safekeeping. They expected the task to be difficult, but the number of obstacles the magic trainees run into makes Lia start to wonder if the sabotage could be coming from someone inside the school.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was a wonderful second book in the Lia Park series! I loved the first book, and this one was just as good! Lia is a great main character. The other characters were all well written. The plot was very interesting. And I love the cover of the book! Overall, this is a MG series I would definitely recommend reading! I'm hoping for more books!

I received an ARC from the publisher.

It’s Locked! A Cozy Mystery Celebration Wrap Up!

Hi, everyone! Today is the wrap up post for It’s Locked! A Cozy Mystery Celebration! I had so much much fun hosting this event for the first time, and I was so happy with the warm welcome this event received from all of you! I want to thank all the wonderful authors who participated, and everyone who read, commented, tweeted, and in any way supported this event. You all are awesome! Now, onto the wrap up! :)

Korina Moss

Vicki Delany

Darci Hannah

Sarah Fox

Abby Collette

Krista Davis

Lauren Elliott

Mary Winters

Auralee Wallace

Marjorie McCown

Katie Oliver

Dianne Freeman

Here's to next year! :)

It's Locked! A Cozy Mystery Celebration: Interview With Dianne Freeman!

Hi, everyone! Today I'm happy to present an interview with Dianne Freeman, the author of the Countess of Harleigh Mysteries!

Would you please tell us a little about the Countess of Harleigh Mysteries?

This are Victorian mysteries with a light touch. My sleuth is Frances Wynn, Countess of Harleigh, whose mother got caught up in the American heiress craze and traded her daughter for the prestige of a gaining title in the family. The first book in the series begins nine years after the wedding. Frances is now a widow yearning for independence. With her young daughter, she moves away from the family home to live on her own for the first time in her life. From that point, everything that can go wrong, does—including a shortage of funds, a series of burglaries, a visit from her marriage mad sister, and a murder. Though she has no idea what she’s doing, Frances faces these problems with aplomb, calling on all her resources, including gossipy friends and a handsome neighbor to flush out the killer.

The next book in the series, A NEWLYWED’S GUIDE TO FORTUNE AND MURDER, releases June 27th! Can you tell us a little about it?

Frances is thrown into a dastardly intrigue surrounding the elderly and wealthy Lady Wingate. Since her husband’s death several months earlier, Lady Wingate hasn’t left the house. Her friend, Lady Esther, is convinced one of the woman’s step-children is drugging her and tapping into her fortune. Her niece, Kate, is about to enter high society and stands to gain an inheritance upon her aunt’s death. Is she trying to hasten that death? Frances teams up with Aunt Hetty, Lady Esther, and Lady Wingate to prove it’s never wise to underestimate the power and cunning of a woman, whatever her age.

Random Question! Who is your favorite fictional detective?

It’s a team! I love the partnership of Charlotte and Thomas Pitt written by Anne Perry. It held up for 32 books, so they’re doing something right!

If you’re able to talk about it, what are you currently working on?

I’m working on the 7th book in the series, An Art Lover’s Guide to Paris and Murder. Frances and her husband, George, have two points of interest in Paris. One is an impromptu holiday to visit the Paris Exposition. The other is personal. George’s Aunt Julia has requested her nephew’s help in looking into the suspicious death of renowned artist Paul Ducasse. Though Julia is not entirely forthcoming about her reasons, she is clearly a woman mourning a lost love.

 At the exposition, swarming with tourists, tragedy casts a pall on the festivities. A footbridge collapses. Julia is among the casualties. However, she was not just another fateful victim. Julia was stabbed to death amid the chaos. With an official investigation at a standstill, George and Frances realize that to solve the case they must dig into Julia’s life—as well as Paul’s—and question everything and everyone in Julia’s coterie of artists and secrets.

What are some of your favorite cozy mysteries? And what are some you’re looking forward to reading?

Way too many to name them all, but I do favor historical cozies. I love Colleen Cambridge’s Phyllida Bright series. (She’s the fictional housekeeper to Agatha Christie when she’s not solving crimes.) I enjoyed A Socialite’s Guide to Murder by S.K. Golden. (Set in a glamorous NYC hotel in the 50s.) Allison Montclair writes the wonderful Sparks and Bainbridge series where two unlikely friends run The Right Sort Marriage Bureau in post WWII London. All three of these authors will release a new book later this year. I’m also looking forward to Celeste Connally’s Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord. 

Thank you so much to Dianne Freeman for participating in this event!

Author Bio: Dianne Freeman is the acclaimed author of the Countess of Harleigh Mystery series. She is an Agatha Award and Lefty Award winner, as well as a finalist for the prestigious Mary Higgins Clark Award from Mystery Writers of America. After thirty years of working in corporate accounting and finance, she now writes full-time. Born and raised in Michigan, she and her husband split their time between Michigan and Arizona. Visit her at www.DiFreeman.com.

Here Are A Few Links:

Her Website

Her Twitter

Her Instagram

Her Facebook

It's Locked! A Cozy Mystery Celebration: Interview With Katie Oliver!

Hi, everyone! Today I'm happy to present an interview with Katie Oliver, the author of the Jane Austen Tea Society Mysteries!

Would you please tell us a little about the Jane Austen Tea Society Mysteries?

Phaedra Brighton is a Jane Austen scholar and a professor of English Literature at Somerset University. She’s thirty-four, single, and definitely not in want of a husband. When murder rears its ugly head in the small Virginia town of Laurel Springs, her best friend becomes a prime suspect. Phaedra follows the clues to find the killer...without getting in the way of homicide detective Matteo Morelli.

She enlists faculty colleagues Lucy Liang and Marisol Dubois—the Jane Austen Tea Society—to help solve the crime and clear her friend’s name. As if investigating her first murder isn’t enough, a new English professor arrives at Somerset, Oxford-educated Mark Selden. He’s as aloof as Mr. Darcy… and every bit as maddening. She tries to ignore him. But his charm (and British accent) proves hard to resist. 

Phaedra shares a cozy carriage house with her Himalayan cat, Wickham. Her aunt Wendy runs the local bed and breakfast, and her younger sister, Hannah, is pastry chef and owner of Tout de Sweet patisserie. Phaedra and her father Malcolm are close, but her relationship with her mother Nan is another story. Like Mrs. Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, Nan wants only one thing – to see her two daughters happily married. 

The next book releases in December! Can you tell us a little about CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY?

It’s the grand opening of Tout de Sweet, Laurel Springs’s first patisserie. Phaedra’s younger sister Hannah has worked hard to make her sweetest dream come true. 

When lifestyles diva Rachel Brandon shows up to feature Hannah in her magazine, it’s the icing on the gateau. Until Rachel’s assistant helps herself to the last dark chocolate cupcake—a cupcake meant for Phaedra and her father to share—and ends up dead. 

Was the poisoned treat intended for Phaedra? Or her father? Who on earth would do such a thing? And why? It’s up to Phaedra and the Jane Austen Tea Society to find the answers. 

Random Question! What’s your favorite color?

I love turquoise! Turquoise makes me think of tranquil Caribbean waters, the deepening night sky in summer, and one of those gorgeous little Tiffany boxes. 

If you’re able to talk about it, what are you currently working on?

I’m working on the fourth Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery, in which Phaedra finds a body in a most unexpected place…and fears her missing mother may be involved. 

In addition, Phaedra’s sister Hannah is having second thoughts about marrying Charles Dalton. He wants her to join him in Washington DC, where he works as a consul at the British embassy. She refuses to leave her hard-earned new bakery behind. 

Can Phaedra find her mother, solve the latest murder, and persuade Hannah that marriage involves a certain amount of compromise?

What are some of your favorite cozy mysteries? And what are some you’re looking forward to reading?

A few of my favorite series are the Lucy Stone mysteries by Leslie Meier; Maine Clambake mysteries by Barbara Ross; Noodle House mysteries by Vivien Chien; Tradd Street mysteries by Karen White; the Marlowe Murder Club by Robert Thorogood; and Laura Childs’ Tea Shop series, as well as the New Orleans Scrapbooking mysteries. I also enjoy anything by Jenn McKinlay. 

I can’t wait to read the latest Tradd Street book, The House on Prytania.

Thank you so much to Katie Oliver for participating in this event!

Author Bio: Katie Oliver is the Amazon bestselling author of the romantic comedy, Prada and Prejudice, book one in the Dating Mr. Darcy series. After completing a second series, Marrying Mr. Darcy, she decided to switch genres and write a cozy mystery. The first book in the Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery series, Pride, Prejudice, and Peril, was published by Berkley in December 2021. A Murderous Persuasion followed in January 2022, and Cyanide and Sensibility will be published in December 2023.

Here Are A Few Links:

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It's Locked! A Cozy Mystery Celebration: Interview With Marjorie McCown!

Hi, everyone! Today I'm happy to present an interview with Marjorie McCown, the author of the Joey Jessop Mysteries, including the first book, Final Cut, which is out now!

Would you please tell us a little about your book, FINAL CUT?

First of all, I want to say thank you for having me here today, Jessica! 

FINAL CUT is a murder mystery set behind-the-scenes of a big budget Hollywood movie in production. The protagonist, Joey Jessop, is a film key costumer, and on the first day of principal photography, she finds the body of a murdered coworker on the beach in Malibu where the company has been shooting. The dead woman was seeing Joey's ex and because of that, along with the fact she found the body, she immediately becomes a suspect. Right away, because it's Hollywood, the story blows up in the press and social media, so Joey suddenly finds herself the target of a lot of negative publicity, too. That's when her problems really begin.

What was the inspiration for the series?

The inspiration for the series came from all the amazing experiences I've had working on movies like FORREST GUMP, APOLLO 13, HAIRSPRAY, ANGELS & DEMONS, and X-MEN DAYS OF FUTURE PAST. I've thought for a long time that a big movie in production would be an interesting setting for a mystery because a movie company is its own unique community, like a very specific kind of small town, with its own set of relationships and drama brewing. The film industry offers such a huge variety of people, activities, and locations that are just part of the normal moviemaking process, there's always plenty of raw material to inspire an endless number of stories!

Random Question: What's your favorite time of year?

This is a hard question to answer because there's a lot to love about every time of year! But if I have to pick, I'd say autumn, right around Halloween. I guess that's maybe a little on-the-nose for a costume designer, but I've always loved the pageantry and fun -- and the costumes of course -- at Halloween. It just feels like the big kickoff for the whole holiday season. 

If you're able to talk about it, what are you working on now?

I've just handed in the second mystery in the Joey Jessop series to my publisher, Crooked Lane Books. The working title is STARSTRUCK, and the story follows Joey to another job on a movie that's set in 1930s Hollywood. Joey is thrilled about working with all those glamorous costumes, but there are (of course) problems on the job -- such as a hit-and-run accident that happens near the location where the movie company is filming -- that may or may not be linked to one of the movie's stars. 

What are some of your favorite cozy mysteries?  And what are some you're looking forward to reading?

Oh, my gosh -- so many answers to both!

Some of my favorites:

The Cajun Country Mystery Series (all 7 books) by Ellen Byron

These books are full of heart and humor, set in the fascinating Cajun community in Louisiana. Ellen always tells a great story!

The Maine Clambake Series (10 books and counting!) by Barbara Ross

These books will sweep you away to picturesque coastal Maine, but it's Barbara's twisty mysteries that will keep you turning the pages. 

The Blue Ridge Library Series (7 books and counting!) by Victoria Gilbert

Victoria's characters feel like real people you're getting to know over the course of the series. The setting in the Blue Ridge mountains is charming, and the mysteries are all quite interesting. If you're anything like me, you'll find yourself eagerly looking forward to the next book. 

The Jane Wunderly Mystery Series (4 books and counting!) by Erica Ruth Neubauer

These books are set in the 1920s, and each mystery takes the reader to a different country and adventure with Jane Wunderly, who is a resourceful amateur sleuth. The stories are so vivid you can almost smell the exotic aromas of Istanbul or feel the Egyptian sun on your shoulders. 

Cozy mysteries I'm looking forward to reading:

1) PLAYING IT SAFE by Ashley Weaver

2) DEATH BY BUBBLE TEA by Jennifer Chow

3) HIDDEN BENEATH by Barbara Ross

4) A CRYPTIC CLUE by Victoria Gilbert (this is a brand new series, and I'm really looking forward to the first book!)

Thank you again, Jessica, for the opportunity to be part of the conversation on your wonderful blog!  

Thank you so much to Marjorie McCown for participating in this event!

Author Bio: Marjorie McCown has worked on the costume design teams for a string of movies that includes Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, The Firm, A Bronx Tale, Wag the Dog, The Aviator, Angels & Demons,The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and X-Men Days of Future Past. Her debut murder

mystery, FINAL CUT, is set behind-the-scenes of a blockbuster Hollywood movie in production.

She lives in Southern California with her cats Monkey and Max.

Here Are A Few Links:

Her Website

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It's Locked! A Cozy Mystery Celebration: Interview With Auralee Wallace!

Hi, everyone! Today I'm happy to present an interview with Auralee Wallace, the author of the Evenfall Witches Mysteries!

Would you please tell us a little about the Evenfall Witches Mysteries?

The Evenfall Witches B&B Mysteries center around a family of witches running a bed & breakfast – who just so happen to solve the occasional murder. For nearly four hundred years, the family has used their magic to quietly help the citizens of their sleepy New England town thrive. Every witch in the family has their own magical specialty, including the youngest member, Brynn, who has been gifted with the power to commune with restless spirits. Ghosts never remember much about their passings, but Brynn can usually piece together a picture of their lives - and their deaths - to get them the answers they need to find peace.

What was the inspiration for the books?

This will come as no surprise to those who have read In the Company of Witches, but I was deeply inspired by Practical Magic, Gilmore Girls, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and The Ghostwhisper. Also, by every witch-based picture book and fairy tale I read as a child, and I read a lot of them. And Halloween! I love Halloween.

Random Question! What's your favorite mystery TV series?

That’s a tough one. Hmm, even though they are very different from what I write, I’m a sucker for BBC mysteries. About ten years ago I caught my husband watching a new show without me. (I know. I couldn’t believe it either. He was already halfway through episode three!) It looked like something I might like, so I made him go back to the beginning. That show was Happy Valley…which led to Broadchurch (tough one to watch), then Luther and Marcella. Recently, we got into Lupin. 

Oh! But I really want to check out the new Nancy Drew series. I think I’d like the paranormal element.

If you’re able to talk about it, what are you currently working on?

So, this one is a bit complicated. My editor at Berkley started another career which left The Evenfall Witches without a home. That being said, Berkley was happy with the sales of the books (as was I!) and proposed I work on a new series along the lines of The Maid and Thursday Murder Club. All that being said, I’m not sure if I’m ready to give up on the Evenfall Witches just yet, and I am pondering some other avenues.

What are some of your favorite cozy mysteries? And what are some you’re looking forward to reading?

I do like Juliet Blackwell’s Witchcraft Mysteries and Heather Blake’s Wishcraft Mysteries for obvious paranormal reasons, but I’m also really looking forward to checking out C.J. Connor’s Board to Death. I think it will be a good one.

Thank you so much to Auralee Wallace for participating in this event!

Author Bio: Auralee Wallace is the author of multiple novels, including the Otter Lake mystery series and the Evenfall Witches B&B Mysteries. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master’s degree in English literature, and she worked in the publishing industry for a number of years before teaching at the college level.

When this perpetually sleep-deprived mother of three children and one rescue cat isn’t writing, reading, or playing soccer, she can be found watching BBC mysteries and warring with a family of peregrine falcons for the rights to her backyard.

Here Are A Few Links:

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