Sunday Salon / Sunday Post – Hot! Hot! Hot! – Food Network – Weekly Rewind – New Arrivals
The Sunday Salon is a Facebook group that has become an
informal week in review gathering place for bloggers.
It is also a place to share our thoughts about things of a bookish nature.
You can also link up weekly on Readerbuzz.
The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by
Kimberly @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer
~ It’s a chance to share news~
A post to recap the past week on your blog, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead.
HAPPY SUNDAY EVERYONE!
HOT! HOT! HOT!
Chemo had a few bumps last week. It was 90 degrees outside on Tuesday and even after riding in an air-conditioned vehicle when I arrived at the clinic, I was shown to have a temperature of over 100 degrees, a COVID 19 symptom so I was held at the door. After waiting about 20 minutes a nurse came to take my temperature orally instead of by my ear. 98.6 Good to go! Then I get to my room and when the nurse tries to access my port we found it was clogged. After some trying to manipulate the port they inject something to break up the clot and my bloodwork is drawn from my arm. After the lab work shows, I am good to receive chemo the nurses work to get the port to work and they do. So after a late start, everything goes great and it has been a week without too many side effects. I do seem to be tolerating this new course very well. Fingers crossed that continues. Added Sunday – Neuropathy started to kick my butt Saturday night into today. Late start for my day because I have to listen to my body.
FOOD NETWORK BINGEING
It has been a tough time for our nation with the police brutality and the continued pandemic even while states are trying to reopen safely. Because of my diminished immune system, I have only left the house for my cancer treatments and Mr. Dollycas continues to work from home so he doesn’t bring any bugs home that could make me sick. I am usually found in the evenings with my head in a book and my television shows of choice are dramas like Law & Order or Chicago PD but I have needed a break from death and murder at least on television, I am still reading mysteries. So, I have been binge-watching The Food Network. Guys Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped, Worst Cooks in America. Cooking shows are so easy to watch and have their own easy-going drama that is fun and the food whets my tastebuds. Are you bingeing on something new?
Weekly Rewind – June 1 – 6, 2020
Monday – My Reading Itinerary Monday! – Week #23 – 2020
I hope you have a great week full of joy!
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
The Study of Secrets (A Lila Maclean Academic Mystery) by Cynthia Kuhn #Spotlight / #Giveaway – Great Escapes Book Tour
The Study of Secrets (A Lila Maclean Academic Mystery)
by Cynthia Kuhn
I am excited to shine my spotlight on
The Study of Secrets by Cynthia Kuhn today!
About The Study of Secrets
The Study of Secrets (A Lila Maclean Academic Mystery)
Cozy Mystery/Amateur Sleuths
5th in Series
Publisher: Henery Press (May 26, 2020)
Hardcover: 242 pages
ISBN-10: 163511618X
ISBN-13: 978-1635116182
Paperback: 242 pages
ISBN-10: 1635116155
ISBN-13: 978-1635116151
Digital ASIN: B085P3CF39
There could be nowhere more fitting for English professor Lila Maclean to spend her sabbatical than in a proper Victorian mansion. The whimsical Callahan House seems to have materialized from the pages of the mystery novels she is researching, with its enchanting towers, cozy nooks, and charming library. Unfortunately, it also features a body in the study.
Residents of Larkston have long believed that the Callahan family is cursed—the murder on the estate sets the town buzzing. Wild rumors are fueled by a gossipy blogger who delights in speculation, and further crimes only intensify the whispers and suspicions. A newly discovered manuscript, however, appears to expose startling facts beneath the fictions. When Lila steps in to sort the truth from the lies, it may cost her everything, as someone wants to make dead certain that their secrets stay hidden.
About Cynthia Kuhn
Cynthia Kuhn writes the Lila Maclean Academic Mysteries: The Semester of Our Discontent, The Art of Vanishing, The Spirit in Question, The Subject of Malice, and The Study of Secrets. Honors for the series include an Agatha Award for best first novel and Lefty Award nominations for best humorous mystery. For more information, please visit cynthiakuhn.net.
Author Links
Website: cynthiakuhn.net
Twitter: @cynthiakuhn
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cynthiakuhnwriter
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/authors/cynthia-kuhn
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/cynthiakuhn
Blog: chicksonthecase.com
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/2MPiEMh
Purchase Links – Amazon – Nook – B&N Paperback
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Great Escapes Praise for The Study of Secrets (A Lila Maclean Academic Mystery)
by Cynthia Kuhn
This is a touching story of a group of friends who have weathered years and tragedy together, with many secrets, not the least of which involve the missing Ilse.
~Christa Reads and Writes
The Study of Secrets is well-written, and the mystery(ies) kept me engrossed the entire book. Cynthia Kuhn writes in the style I most love to read.
~Christy’s Cozy Corners
This was a well-written and plotted mystery. I enjoyed the quick pace and the twists along the way.
~Carla Loves to Read
Ms. Kuhn does a fantastic job, and I loved every minute of reading it.
~Baroness’ Book Trove
TOUR PARTICIPANTS
May 25 – eBook Addicts – SPOTLIGHT
May 26 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW
May 27 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT
May 28 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
May 29 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT
May 30 – I’m Into Books – SPOTLIGHT
May 31 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW
June 1 – Carla Loves To Read – REVIEW
June 1 – Baroness’ Book Trove – REVIEW
June 2 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT
June 3 – Here’s How It Happened – SPOTLIGHT
June 4 – Jane Reads – CHARACTER GUEST POST
June 4 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT
June 5 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT
June 6 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW
June 7 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
June 7 – Diane Reviews Books – REVIEW
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Don’t Make a Sound (Sawyer Brooks) by T.R. Ragan #Spotlight / #Giveaway – Great Escapes Book Tour @TRRaganAuthor
Don’t Make a Sound (Sawyer Brooks)
by T.R. Ragan
I am thrilled to shine my spotlight on
Don’t Make A Sound by T. R. Ragan today!
About Don’t Make A Sound
Don’t Make a Sound (Sawyer Brooks)
Psychological Thriller
1st in Series
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer (June 1, 2020)
Paperback: 287 pages
ISBN-10: 1542093872
ISBN-13: 978-1542093873
Digital ASIN: B07S4MFSFG
Her own past could be a reporter’s biggest story in this twisting thriller about murder and family secrets by the New York Times bestselling author T.R. Ragan.
Plagued by traumatic childhood memories, crime reporter Sawyer Brooks still struggles to gain control of her rage, her paranoia, and her life. Now, after finally getting promoted at work, she is forced to return home and face her past.
River Rock is where she’d been abandoned by her two older sisters to suffer alone, and in silence, the unspeakable abuses of her family. It’s also where Sawyer’s best friend disappeared and two teenage girls were murdered. Three cold cases dead and buried with the rest of the town’s secrets.
When another girl is slain in a familiar grisly fashion, Sawyer is determined to put an end to the crimes. Pulled back into the horrors of her family history, Sawyer must reconcile with her estranged sisters, who both have shattering memories of their own. As Sawyer’s investigation leads to River Rock’s darkest corners, what will prove more dangerous—what she knows of the past or what she has yet to discover?
About T.R. Ragan
New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA TODAY bestselling author T.R. Ragan has sold more than three million books since her debut novel appeared in 2011. She is the author of the Faith McMann trilogy
Author Links – Facebook – Instagram – Twitter –
Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N –
Coming November 10, 2020
Find more books by T.R. Ragan here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Great Escapes Praise for Don’t Make a Sound (Sawyer Brooks)
by T.R. Ragan
Overall, it feels kind of wrong to say I enjoyed this one when it had such difficult subject matter but I really did. It wasn’t always easy for me to read but it was a very compelling book. I’m eager to read more about Sawyer and to see what other kinds of trouble she will find herself in next.
~Booked On A Feeling
This is a novel I had a hard time stopping each time I picked it up because I wanted to see justice served for the girls in the story. It’s a good start to a new series, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Sawyer.
~The Book’s the Thing
This book is not for the faint of heart. Tread lightly because this is deeply disturbing and made all the more chilling given how incredibly believable it all is. This violence happens every day, and though explicit, but never gratuitous, it is relevant.
~That’s What She’s Reading
Despite the difficult storylines I really got engrossed with the story and though at times difficult to read, you really connect with Sawyer on a deeper level.
~eBook Addicts
TOUR PARTICIPANTS – Please visit all the stops.
May 26 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
May 26 – Booked on a Feeling – REVIEW
May 27 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT
May 28 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT
May 29 – The Book’s the Thing – REVIEW
May 30 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT
May 31 – Gimme The Scoop Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
June 1 – I’m All About Books – SPOTLIGHT
June 1 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 2 – That’s What She’s Reading – REVIEW
June 3 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – SPOTLIGHT
June 4 – eBook Addicts – REVIEW
June 5 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT
June 6 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
June 7 – The Book Diva’s Reads – SPOTLIGHT
June 8 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
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#FlashbackFriday – Murder with Cherry Tarts (A Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery) by Karen Rose Smith #Review / #Giveaway @KensingtonBooks @karenrosemith
On Flashback Fridays I will share with you
the books I was not able to review
when they were first released that have been screaming at me
from my To-Be-Read bookshelf.
Murder with Cherry Tarts (A Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
4th in Series
Setting – Pennsylvania
Publisher: Kensington (November 26, 2019)
Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
ISBN-10: 1496723929
ISBN-13: 978-1496723925
Kindle ASIN: B07PNYFWZD
In Pennsylvania’s Amish country, Daisy Swanson has a tea shop to run, a daughter to marry off—and a murder to solve . . .
Daisy’s worried one of her employees at Daisy’s Tea Garden may be in a spot of trouble. Lately Karina’s been loading up on soup and second-day baked goods at the end of her shift—and while the shop’s scrumptious treats may be hard to resist, Daisy suspects there’s more going on, especially since Karina has been seen hanging out in a rundown part of Willow Creek.
Planning her own daughter’s wedding is enough to keep her busy, but Daisy can’t help feeling a protective maternal instinct—and an instict to investigate. It turns out Karina has been helping a down-on-his luck single dad who’s been making ends meet—barely—by selling antiques at a place called Pirated Treasures.
But when an employee at the antiques store is bludgeoned to death with a marble rolling pin, Karina’s new friend is suspect number one. Though the motives are muddy and steeped in intrigue, Daisy is more than determined to flush the real killer out.
Includes delicious recipes!
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We are back in Willow Creek when a lot is happening. A wedding, a big move, a new baby soon to be delivered, an employee behaving oddly, and a new murder. Daisy is juggling a lot of teapots in the air.
Daisy’s daughter, Violet is nervous about her wedding that is just a few days away. Will she be a good wife? A good mom? Will she be able to handle it all?
Daisy’s employee, Karina has been taking leftover food to a homeless man and Daisy just can’t help but step in to help. But when the man becomes the prime suspect in a murder will Daisy be rethinking her generosity or will she go above and beyond to prove his innocence?
_______
Again the author has piled a lot of our protagonist’s shoulders but Daisy has proved she can handle it before so I knew just to hold on tight and let her go. Daisy doesn’t disappoint. She is a wise woman with great instincts and ideas and tons of patience when needed. She has raised two terrific daughters and surrounded herself with wonderful friends. Jazzi, her adopted daughter is trying to forge a relationship with her birth mom, and Daisy is so supportive. Aunt Iris is a treasure and I love the relationship she has with Daisy while her relationship with her mother is strained. Her relationship with Jonas continues to evolve. I really enjoyed the introduction of Keith Robert and his daughter, Mandy. The characters the author has created are what truly brings me back to this series again and again.
The mystery is very well-plotted and written. The author again blends work, home, and the murder investigation seamlessly. Daisy really gets involved in the life of the man police are focused on much to the dismay of Detective Zeke Willet. I really enjoyed the way the whole story played out. It had some really nice twists and turns.
Cherry Tarts are the focus of this book and I guarantee you will be craving them by the time you finish this book. Thankfully the recipe is included at the end.
Truly engaging characters and a curious mystery made Murder with Cherry Tarts
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
Come back next Tuesday when I will be reviewing Murder With Clotted Cream
About the Author
Karen Rose Smith likes to chat with her readers on social media. You can find her on Facebook at KarenRoseSmithBooks and on Twitter @karenrosemith. Find out more about her mysteries at https://www.karenrosesmithmysteries.com.
Also by this Author
I am giving away 1 Kindle Copy of Murder With Cherry Tarts!
Book will be gifted from Amazon.
Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited.
You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find
something you like here and become a follower.
Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow.
Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Liking My Facebook Fan Page.
Follow Kensington Books on Twitter for 2 Bonus Entries!
LIKE Kensington Publishing on Facebook for 2 Bonus Entries!
Sign up for Karen’s Newsletter for 5 Bonus Entries.
Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries.
Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries.
If you publicize the giveaway on Twitter or Facebook or anywhere you will receive
5 Bonus Entries For Each Link.
Contest Will End June 19, 2020, at 11:59 PM CST
Winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org
Winner Will Be Notified By Email
and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar.
Click Here For Entry Form
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Sprinkles of Suspicion (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series) by Kim Davis – #Review / #Giveaway – Great Escapes Book Tour @Kookiesandbooks
Sprinkles of Suspicion (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series)
by Kim Davis
About Sprinkles of Suspicion
Sprinkles of Suspicion (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – California
Publisher: Cinnamon & Sugar Press (June 2, 2020)
Print Length: 269 pages
Digital ASIN: B086XKRCJH
One glass of cheap California chardonnay cost Emory Gosser Martinez her husband, her job, and her best friend. Unfortunately, that was only the beginning of her troubles.
Distraught after discovering the betrayal by her husband and best friend, Tori, cupcake caterer Emory Martinez allows her temper to flare. Several people witness her very public altercation with her ex-friend. To make matters worse, Tori exacts her revenge by posting a fake photo of Emory in a compromising situation, which goes viral on social media. When Tori is found murdered, all signs point to Emory being the prime suspect.
With the police investigation focused on gathering evidence to convict her, Emory must prove her innocence while whipping up batches of cupcakes and buttercream. Delving into the past of her murdered ex-friend, she finds other people had reasons to want Tori dead, including Emory’s own husband. Can she find the killer, or will the clues sprinkled around the investigation point the police back to her?
Includes recipes!
Dollycas’s Thoughts
A night out with her best friend turns Emory Gosser Martinez entirely upside down including becoming the prime suspect in that friend’s murder. While trying to keep her mind on her cupcake catering business she also has to do everything she can to prove her innocence. The trouble is she doesn’t know who she can trust and maybe putting her faith in the wrong people. There is plenty of suspicion sprinkled around but is there enough to find the real killer or will Emory be baking behind bars?
Emory Gosser Martinez is an interesting protagonist and for the most part her own worst enemy. A far from perfect amateur sleuth, very naive, a bit of a doormat, and she makes horrible choices in husbands and best friends. I was happy to see that by the end of the story she was turning the corner on these traits and that the development of her character continues in a pleasing way.
We are introduced to several characters within these pages. Several are strong that I hope we see more of in future installments. Several deplorable that I am happy to see an end of in this installment. It takes a talent to write characters to invoke these emotions and Ms. Davis has this talent.
This story moves along at a great pace and doesn’t lag anywhere. There is always something happening, drama, twists, and yes, cupcakes. So well-plotted, I was totally taken in by the entire story and flabbergasted when the real killer was revealed. I also loved the way the story ended which has me so excited for the next book in this series.
Sprinkles of Suspicion
An Entertaining Read! I can’t wait for more from this author!
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
About Kim Davis
Kim Davis lives in Southern California with her husband. When she’s not spending time with her granddaughters she can be found either writing stories or working on her blog, Cinnamon, Sugar, and a Little Bit of Murder or in the kitchen baking up yummy treats. She has published the suspense novel, A GAME OF DECEIT, and has had several children’s articles published in Cricket, Nature Friend, Skipping Stones, and the Seed of Truth magazines. Kim Davis is a member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime.
Author Links: Website – Facebook – Twitter – Goodreads – Pinterest
Purchase Links: Amazon
On Sale for 99 Cents!
Also by this Author
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Great Escapes Praise for Sprinkles of Suspicion (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series)
by Kim Davis
Once again, the writing is delightful and the characters are nicely and vividly fleshed out. They added ‘sprinkles of delight and flavor’ to this fun cozy-mystery and kept me hooked from the beginning to finish, for sure!
~Diary of a Book Fiend
Her (Emory) trusting nature definitely gets her into sticky situations and makes her an easy mark. The pace is steady and her cluelessness adds a touch of humor. An enjoyable read.
~Christa Reads and Writes
Sprinkles of Suspicion kept me on the edge of my seat. The revelations make you go “Say whaattt????” The identity of the killer was surprising.
~The Book Decoder
. . . .a fun debut. . . Sprinkles of Suspicion sets up a promising new series. You’ll enjoy meeting Emory here and be anxious to find out where cupcakes and murder take her next.
~Carstairs Considers….
Wow!! This book started off with a bang . . . This is a well-written, fun mystery and the reader is bound to have a good time with this one!! Highly recommend.
~Moonlight Rendezvous
TOUR PARTICIPANTS – Please visit al the stops.
June 1 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
June 1 – Diary of a Book Fiend – REVIEW
June 1 – A Wytch’s Book Review Blog – REVIEW (no post)
June 2 – Christa Reads and Writes – REVIEW
June 2 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT
June 2 – The Book Decoder – REVIEW
June 3 – Carstairs Considers – REVIEW
June 3 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
June 3 – Moonlight Rendezvous – REVIEW
June 4 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW
June 4 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – SPOTLIGHT
June 4 – Literary Gold – CHARACTER GUEST POST
June 5 – View from the Birdhouse – SPOTLIGHT
June 5 – Sneaky the Library Cat’s Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW
June 6 – Reading, Writing & Stitch-Metic– SPOTLIGHT
June 6 – La libreria di Beppe – SPOTLIGHT
June 7 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW
June 7 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
June 7 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – GUEST POST
June 8 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
June 8 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW
June 9 – Gimme The Scoop Reviews – REVIEW
June 9 – Dee-Scoveries – SPOTLIGHT
June 9 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 10 – Read Your Writes Book Reviews – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 10 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW
June 10 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Cozy Wednesday – Marshmallow Malice (An Amish Candy Shop Mystery) by Amanda Flower #Review / #Giveaway @KensingtonBooks
Welcome to Cozy Wednesday!
I am so happy to feature Marshmallow Malice
by Amanda Flower today!
Marshmallow Malice (An Amish Candy Shop Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
5th in Series
Setting – Ohio
Publisher: Kensington (May 26, 2020)
Mass Market Paperback: 336 pages
ISBN-10: 1496722035
ISBN-13: 978-1496722034
Kindle ASIN: B07W8Y8V7V
Caught in a sticky situation . . .
With Juliet Brody and Reverend Brook tying the knot in Ohio’s Amish Country’s most anticipated nuptials of the year, Bailey King is determined to do everything in her power to make the event a sweet success. Except midsummer heat waves and outdoor ceremonies don’t mix, and an exasperated Bailey soon finds herself struggling to fulfill bridesmaid duties and keep her stunning marshmallow-frosted wedding cake from becoming a gooey disaster. Then much to everyone’s shock, the entire ceremony crumbles when a guest drops dead, and the cause isn’t sunstroke . . .
Turns out, the uninvited victim came equipped with lots of dirt on the devout reverend’s hidden past. As Reverend Brook tops the murder suspect list on what should have been the happiest day of his life, Bailey and her sheriff’s deputy boyfriend vow to clear his name. Can the duo boil down a series of baffling clues before Juliet considers her marriage a bad mistake—or the killer whips up another deadly surprise?
Recipe Included!
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Like other fans of this series, I have been looking forward to Reverend Brook and Juliet Brody’s wedding complete with Jethro, the pig as ringbearer, and Bailey King as the maid of honor. Bailey has worked tirelessly to give Juliet the wedding of her dreams. The wedding is going along nicely until a stranger arrives shouting at the reverend. The person is removed and the ceremony continues.
Juliet wanted a cake with marshmallow frosting even though the heat of the day could ruin all her hard work. But it was other forces that be that send the reception into a sticky mess. Even then the party goes on and everyone seems to have fun.
Then the next day, a body is found at the church. The stranger from the wedding has been murdered and we find they are not a stranger after all. They have a connection to the community and to the good Reverend Brook. Will he and Juliet be able to go on their honeymoon? Only if Bailey and Aiden can clear his name and frost the real killer.
I do love this series. The way the community of Harvest comes together to celebrate always warms my heart. There are always a few rotten apples around trying to throw shade but by and large, the town is full of good people. Bailey has really worked her way into many people’s hearts. She loves working with her grandmother in the family sweet shop and she dreams up such wonderful creations. She is smart and independent and people, both Amish and Englisch open up to her making her a huge asset to her deputy boyfriend. This time her friend Cass is visiting Harvest too and is a great sidekick for Bailey. All Ms. Flower’s characters continue to grow in believable ways.
A lot happens within the pages of this book and at times it seemed a bit chaotic but in Amanda Flower’s hands, we see it is all a very well-constructed plot with plenty of theories, twists, secrets, and suspects. She serves up misdirection like a master and had me stymied almost right up to the big reveal. It is so much fun to follow along with these characters.
What I really love about Ms. Flower’s stories is that while giving readers an entertaining mystery she dishes up a high level of humor. Almost from the start, I was laughing out loud as Juliet was getting ready for the wedding, the issues with the cake and Bailey in her bridesmaids dress and so much more. She really knows how to tickle her reader’s funny bones.
Marshmallow Malice
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
About This Author
Amanda Flower, a two-time Agatha Award-nominated mystery author, started her writing career in elementary school when she read a story she wrote to her sixth-grade class and had the class in stitches with her description of being stuck on the top of a Ferris wheel. She knew at that moment she’d found her calling of making people laugh with her words. She also writes mysteries as national bestselling author Isabella Alan. In addition to being an author, Amanda is an academic librarian for a small college near Cleveland.
Author Links:
Website Pen Name Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads Pinterest
Due to COVID 19 the publisher is unable to provide a book for a giveaway
so I am giving away a $5 Amazon Gift Card!
The contest is open to anyone over 18 years old.
Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited.
You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find
something you like here and become a follower.
Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow.
Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Liking My Facebook Fan Page.
Subscribe to Amanda’s Newsletter for 5 Bonus Entries.
Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries.
Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries.
If you publicize the giveaway on Twitter or Facebook or anywhere you will receive
5 Bonus Entries For Each Link.
Contest Will End June 17, 2020, at 11:59 PM CST
Winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org
Winner Will Be Notified By Email
and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar.
Click Here For Entry Form
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
No Filter (Barks & Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery) by Heather Day Gilbert – #Review / #Giveaway – Great Escapes Book Tour @heatherdgilbert
No Filter (Barks & Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery)
by Heather Day Gilbert
About No Filter
No Filter (Barks & Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – West Virginia
Publisher: WoodHaven Press (May 26, 2020)
Paperback: 240 pages
ISBN-10: 099782798X
ISBN-13: 978-0997827989
Kindle ASIN: B085BX4N96
Welcome to the Barks & Beans Cafe, a quaint place where folks pet shelter dogs while enjoying a cup of java…and where murder sometimes pays a visit.
Fed up with her go-nowhere job, newly single Macy Hatfield moves back to her small hometown in West Virginia. She joins forces with her brother Bo in his crazy new venture—the Barks & Beans Cafe, which caters to dog lovers and coffee drinkers alike.
When a golf instructor is murdered at the nearby spiritual center, Macy winds up adopting his Great Dane. Just after Macy finds a mysterious message sewn under the dog’s collar, her Dane is dognapped. She launches into a relentless search for her newfound canine friend, but along the way, she digs up a cruel and confident killer.
Join siblings Macy and Bo Hatfield as they sniff out crimes in their hometown…with plenty of dogs along for the ride! The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series features a small town, an amateur sleuth, and no swearing or graphic scenes.
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Bo Hatfield invites his sister Macy home to West Virginia to be his partner is his new venture, the Barks & Beans Cafe. A cafe for coffee and dog lovers complete with shelter dogs to adopt. Shortly after opening Macy makes a huge adoption of her own, a Great Dane previously owned by a golf instructor who had been murdered. Macy finds something interesting attached to the dog’s collar and shortly thereafter her new pet is stolen.
Macy starts a frantic search for her dog and that lands her right in the middle of the golf pros murder investigation. With Bo’s help, they try to collar the killer and bring Great Dane Coal home where he belongs.
This series is off to a fantastic start!
Macy and Bo are a great pair of protagonists. The siblings each have their strengths and work well together. The author has developed these characters so well for the first book in the series while leaving plenty of room for growth. She has also introduced an interesting supporting cast I hope to see a lot more of. For me, Coal steals the story. Big, lovable, protective, and smart, he is truly a special dog.
The mystery is complex with a variety of suspects and twists and turns. In the course of the investigation, a huge secret is revealed which could change everything. I totally enjoyed the exciting chase to the big reveal.
I love the idea of the Barks and Beans Cafe. It is a place I would love to visit every day.
No Filter
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
About Heather Day Gilbert
HEATHER DAY GILBERT, an ECPA Christy award finalist and Grace award winner, writes contemporary mysteries and Viking historicals. Her novels feature small towns, family relationships, and women who aren’t afraid to protect those they love. Like her amateur sleuth heroines, she enjoys reading Agatha Christie, playing video games, dogs, and coffee.
Author Links – Website – Facebook Author Page – Bookbub – Goodreads
Twitter: @heatherdgilbert Instagram: @heatherdaygilbert
Purchase – Amazon
Also by Heather Day Gilbert
Great Escapes Praise for No Filter (Barks & Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery)
by Heather Day Gilbert
What a wonderful cozy series debut! . . . Entertaining and totally engrossing, you wouldn’t want to miss reading this awesome cozy debut.
The Book Decoder
No Filter is a charming cozy mystery with a clever canine named Coal, deafening drums, a gone golfer, Brazilian beans, and a despicable dognapper.
~The Avid Reader
No Filter was a fun, exciting mystery that featured a charming furry sidekick.
~Moonlight Rendezvous
I loved it . . . The Barks & Beans series is just my kind of read. I love the quain(t) town and the coffee shop/doggie daycare.
~My Reading Journeys
Full of cute critters, well developed characters, and just enough clues to keep you turning the page wondering what she will find next. A solid base for a new adorable cozy mystery series.
~Books a Plenty Book Reviews
No Filter by Heather Day Gilbert is a delightful beginning to The Barks & Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery book series. I appreciate the fact that this is a completely clean book with neither swearing nor sexual innuendo…
~Christy’s Cozy Corners
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. The mystery was intriguing and not easily solved.
~MJB Reviewers
TOUR PARTICIPANTS
May 26 – The Book Decoder – REVIEW
May 26 – Mysteries with Character – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
May 26 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
May 26 – Diane Reviews Books – CHARACTER GUEST POST
May 27 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW
May 27 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT
May 27 – Moonlight Rendezvous – REVIEW
May 27 – The Book Diva’s Reads – CHARACTER GUEST POST
May 28 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW
May 28 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW
May 28 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT
May 28 – The Power of Words – REVIEW (unable to post)
May 29 – Christy’s Cozy Corners – REVIEW
May 29 – Socrates Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
May 29 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
May 29 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW
May 30 – Baroness’ Book Trove – REVIEW
May 30 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW
May 30 – Gimme The Scoop Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
May 31 – Brianne’s Book Reviews – REVIEW
May 31 – I’m Into Books – SPOTLGHT
May 31 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 1 – eBook Addicts – REVIEW
June 1 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 1 – Reading Authors Network – SPOTLIGHT
June 2 – Melina’s Book Blog – REVIEW
June 2 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW
June 2 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT
Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?
Click Here Find Details and Sign Up Today!
My Reading Itinerary Monday! – Week #23 – 2020
Welcome to My Reading Itinerary Monday!
Where are your books taking you this week?
I will be visiting England and North Carolina!
Here’s what I read and what I have planned for this week.
Escapes Completed
No Filter (Barks & Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery)
by Heather Day Gilbert
Release Date – May 26, 2020
Setting – West Virginia
The Great Escapes Book Tour stops here tomorrow!
Marshmallow Malice (An Amish Candy Shop Mystery)
by Amanda Flower
Release Date – May 26, 2020
Setting – Ohio
I will be featuring this book this week for Cozy Wednesday!
Sprinkles of Suspicion (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series)
by Kim Davis
Release Date – June 2, 2020
Setting – California
The Great Escapes Book Tour stops here Thursday!
Murder with Cherry Tarts (A Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery)
by Karen Rose Smith
Release Date – November 26, 2019
Setting – Pennsylvania
My Flashback Friday Read!
Murder with Clotted Cream (A Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery)
by Karen Rose Smith
Release Date – May 26, 2020
Setting – Pennsylvania
For Review
Scheduled Escapes
Lady Rosamund and the Poison Pen: A Rosie and McBrae Regency Mystery
by Barbara Monajem
Release Date – April 18, 2020
Setting – England
The Great Escapes Tour stops here next week for Cozy Wednesday!
Booked for Death: A Booklover’s B&B Mystery (A Book Lover’s B&B Mystery)
by Victoria Gilbert
Release Date has been moved to August 11, 2020
Setting – North Carolina
The Great Escapes Tour stops here next Thursday!
I will choose a Flashback Friday book too!
Future Escapes
Release Dates are changing due to the COVID 19 Pandemic so please double check on Amazon.
June 1 – 7, 2020
Click Here to check out my Current Giveaways!
Please Share Your Reading Itinerary in the Comments below!
Happy Reading!!
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
Sunday Salon / Sunday Post – My Week – Weekly Rewind – New Arrivals
The Sunday Salon is a Facebook group that has become an
informal week in review gathering place for bloggers.
It is also a place to share our thoughts about things of a bookish nature.
You can also link up weekly on Readerbuzz.
The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by
Kimberly @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer
~ It’s a chance to share news~
A post to recap the past week on your blog, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up on our blog for the week ahead.
HAPPY SUNDAY EVERYONE!
My Week
I had my 5th round of chemo last week. It went well. They added extra steroids because some people have a hypersensitivity reaction to the drug I was started on. I had no reaction and the side effects so far have been mild. I have been told though that the side effects will be cumulative as the treatments continue and we have to keep on top of the neuropathy that I am feeling in my hands and feet and this is going to get worse. I have had a form of this since my accident in 2001 and it did escalate some during the first rounds. I may not be able to tolerate the full 12 weeks, but I am hoping to do them all. Round 6 this Tuesday.
Last week I told you I had an ultrasound and the radiologist told me my tumor has shrunk “a bit”. Well, the Nurse Practioner told me Tuesday that the tumor has shrunk 33%!!!!! To me, that is more than a bit and a reason to celebrate!!!!!
Also, Daughter #1, the daughter that takes me to my treatments stubbed her big toe at home last week and broke it good. She is now in a boot for at least 3 weeks and trying to work light duty but is in a lot of pain. Please keep her in your prayers for a speedy recovery.
We also had a sad moment this week. My son Kris has been gone for over 5 years. After his death Son #2 drove his truck until it had a mechanical failure to large to overcome. That was almost 3 years ago and we had been trying to work with the bank the whole time to get a clear title or payoff so we could donate the truck to a non-profit group that fixes and resells vehicles but kept getting the runaround. A couple of weeks ago we did another search and were amazed that the lien had been removed from the title. After contacting the DMV we found that yes the title was really clear, we just needed to transfer the title to Mr. Dollycas’s name, pay the fee, of course, and we could get a new title and donate the truck. On Thursday, the non-profit tow truck arrived and hauled Kris’ truck away. I had tears in my eyes as I will no longer have that reminder in the driveway but realize that even after all this time the pain is still so raw.
~Lori
Weekly Rewind – May 25 – 30, 2020
Monday – My Reading Itinerary Monday! – Week #22 – 2020
Tuesday – Red Hot (A Red Herring Mystery) by Dana Dratch #Review
Friday – Kelegeen by Eileen O’Finlan – #AuthorInterview / #Giveaway – Great Escapes Book Tour
I wish you a happy week, full of joy!
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
Murder in the Wine Country (A Kelly Jackson Mystery) by Janet Finsilver #Spotlight – Great Escapes Book Tour
I am pleased to shine my spotlight today on
Murder in the Wine Country!
Murder in the Wine Country (A Kelly Jackson Mystery)
by Janet Finsilver
This is another great mystery but as usual with this series, Kelly and the Silver Sentinels are my favorite part. Kelly is a clever sleuth who does what she needs to in order to track down the killer but is never too reckless. Her friends are all well-developed and unique, and they make a great team.
~The Book’s the Thing
Murder in the Wine Country by Janet Finsilver is a smooth, easy read with charming characters and a picturesque setting. From exotic plant poaching to murder and everything in between, the mysteries in this cozy keep Kelly & the Sentinels busy and readers on their toes too.
~Reading Is My SuperPower
Murder in the Wine Country is a diverting cozy mystery with foraging for flora, wonderful wines, succulent stealers, valiant veterans, and a perplexing puzzle.
~The Avid Reader
What a great addition to this book wonderful cozy mystery series! . . . a fantastic blend of food, wine tasting, clues, and a variety of characters that create a story readers can really love. A must read for fans of cozy mysteries. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
~Books a Plenty Book Reviews
I really enjoy the characters in this series, especially The Silver Sentinels. They are amazing and I hope I can be like them when I read their age. The other secondary characters all play a role in the story and in Kelly’s life.
~Carla Loves To Read
About Murder in the Wine Country
Murder in the Wine Country (A Kelly Jackson Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
6th in Series
Publisher: Lyrical Underground (April 28, 2020)
Paperback: 178 pages
ISBN-10: 1516104277
ISBN-13: 978-1516104277
Kindle ASIN: B07Z5PKHVW
Weeding out killers wasn’t part of the job description . . .
Kelly Jackson, manager of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast, is excited to participate in an event to raise awareness for the plight of struggling veterans in their Northern California coastal community. Local wineries are sponsoring tastings, and to prepare for a culinary competition, professional chefs will forage for wild edible greens. Kelly plans to come along, despite a warning to beware of poachers, who have been stealing the highly valued succulent Dudleya farinosa. The senior sleuths who call themselves the Silver Sentinels join forces with environmental activists known as the Succulent Saviors to thwart the poaching operation. When a consultant for the sale of a local winery is murdered, the poachers are suspected—but so is a wine merchant, Kelly’s friend Phil. As Kelly and the Silver Sentinels attempt to root out the real killer, what she digs up might just put her permanently underground . . .
Janet Finsilver is the USA TODAY best-selling author of the Kelly Jackson mystery series. She worked in education for many years as a teacher, a program administrator, and a workshop presenter. Janet majored in English and earned a Master’s Degree in Education. She loves animals and has two dogs—Kylie and Ellie. Janet has ridden western style since she was a child and was a member of the National Ski Patrol. One of the highlights of her life was touching whales in the San Ignacio Lagoon. MURDER AT REDWOOD COVE
Janet Finsilver and her husband reside in the San Francisco Bay Area. She enjoys cooking, and a recent attempt to reduce the number of cookbooks in the cupboard wasn’t very successful. She’s an avid reader—of course!
Please feel free to visit and/or contact me on my author Facebook page and my website. https://www.facebook.com/janetfinsilverauthor/ http://janetfinsilver.com/
Author Links – Facebook – Twitter – Pinterest – Web –
Purchase Links – Amazon – B&N –
TOUR PARTICIPANTS
May 20 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
May 20 – The Book’s the Thing – REVIEW
May 20 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW
May 21 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
May 21 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW
May 22 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT
May 22 – My Journey Back – CHARACTER GUEST POST
May 23 – Ruff Drafts – SPOTLIGHT
May 23 – T’s Stuff – SPOTLIGHT
May 24 – Brooke Blogs – GUEST POST
May 24 – Gimme The Scoop Reviews – CHARACTER GUEST POST
May 25 – Christy’s Cozy Corners– GUEST POST
May 25 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW
May 26 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR INTERVIEW
May 26 – Baroness’ Book Trove – SPOTLIGHT
May 27 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW
May 27 – Literary Gold – CHARACTER GUEST POST
May 28 – Mysteries with Character – GUEST POST
May 28 – eBook Addicts – SPOTLIGHT
May 29 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW
May 29 – Carla Loves to Read – REVIEW
May 30 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
May 30 – Jane Reads – GUEST POST
Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?
Click Here Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent
Coming December 2020
Coming July 20. 2021
Cozy Mystery
Congratulations to Stacy K. She has won a digital copy of Flipped for Murder by Maddie Day. 
Congratulations to Lisa K. (Missouri). She has won a digital copy of Divide and Concord by J.C. Eaton. 
Congratulations to Stacy M. (Florida). She has won a copy of An Exquisite Corpse by Helen A. Harrison. 
Congratulations to Paula R. (Maryland). She has won a digital copy of Board Stiff by Annalise Ryan. 
Congratulations to Charlene S. (Colorado). She has won a $5 Amazon Gift Card in the Marshmallow Malice Giveaway.
Congratulations to Carol S. (Pennsylvania). She has won a copy of Fudge and Jury by Ellie Alexander.
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