Tag: character interview

November 20, 2019November 10, 2019

#Midweekmystery: Coming Up Murder by Mary Angela, A Bad Hair Day Cookbook by Nancy J. Cohen, and The Wipeout Affair by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds

Everything’s coming up roses for Professor Emmeline Prather. Her scholarly book is finished, spring term is coming to a close, and her love life is blossoming. Then the festival surrounding the exhibit of Shakespeare’s First Folio opens, bringing with it a tempest more dramatic than the bard’s.

In his panel presentation, actor and grad student Tanner Sparks contends Shakespeare isn’t Shakespeare, boasting that he can prove the long-debated theory that an aristocrat actually penned the sonnets and plays. His bombshell sets off an acrid debate among scholars. But were they upset enough to kill him? That’s what Em wonders when Tanner is found dead in Shakespeare’s Garden, his macabre pose inspired by a scene from Hamlet.

At her department head’s urging, Em sets out to find the killer. Suspects abound, and Em finds herself targeted by Shakespeare-themed threats. Undaunted, she persists, determined to solve the case before the end of the semester.

Character Interview

Q: Dr. Prather, welcome to Island Confidential. Can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself–maybe something they might not guess?

My name is Emmeline Prather, but my friends call me Em. I’m an assistant professor of English at the university in Copper Bluff, South Dakota. Readers might not know that I like fast cars and drive a 1969 Mustang convertible. I’m from Detroit. What can I say? I haven’t met a muscle car I didn’t like.

Q: Is there any character in Coming Up Murder you get along with particularly well?

Lenny and I get along swell, especially lately. We’ve been dating four months, and I’m surprised by how little we fight—except when I’m investigating a murder. Then he feels compelled to give me the usual warnings, which I promptly ignore.

Q: Is there anyone you aren’t a big fan of…of whom you aren’t a big fan…you know what I mean.

Mrs. Gunderson (my elderly next-door neighbor) and I are resolving our conflicts one cookie at a time. I used to be irritated by her yapping dog, constant lights, and well-meaning advice. But now I understand I was being a little rash. Lights do deter criminals, and her dog, Darling, really isn’t that bad. He’s just old and cantankerous—like someone else I know. Ahem.

Q: Which brings me to my next question. Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?

She’s terribly devoted. I’ll say that. She cried when she finished this book, and I don’t blame her. What Lenny did, well, it was quite touching. My heart still skips a beat at the thought of it.

Q: Sorry readers, no spoilers, you’ll have to find out for yourself what Lenny did. Dr. Prather, what’s next for you?

I’ve solved four murders, so I think I’ll take a break. In the meantime, my author is starting a new series. This one is about a shop keeper, Zo Jones, who owns the eclectic Happy Camper gift store in the heart of the Black Hills National Forest. The first book, Open for Murder, will be out November 2020 by Kensington. We’re both very excited!

Mary Angela

Professor Prather Mysteries, Happy Camper Mysteries

Mary Angela is the author of two cozy mystery series that have strong protagonists with soft hearts. Emmeline Prather is the witty young teacher in the Professor Prather series, and Zo Jones is the sassy sleuth and shop owner in the Happy Camper series (coming from Kensington in 2020). When Mary isn’t penning heartwarming whodunits, she’s teaching, reading, traveling, or spending time with her family. She’s the proud mom of two beautiful daughters and the shameless owner of two very spoiled pets. You can find out more about her loves, including her writing, at MaryAngelaBooks.com.
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Review

Coming Up Murder is the fourth Professor Prather mystery, but it reads just fine as a standalone.

When the book opens, we join Emmeline Prather at a high point, with her love life humming along and the much-anticipated Shakespeare exhibit about to start. Naturally, this being a murder mystery, things don’t run smoothly for long.

Like the earlier books, Coming Up Murder has an entertaining cast of characters, some you will root for, others you want to nominate as the next murder victim. But if you work in academia, you will recognize all of them.

There aren’t nearly enough academic murder mysteries in the world. With her fourth Professor Prather mystery, author Mary Angela helps to right this cosmic imbalance.

Professor Emmeline Prather is a likable and relatable heroine, and the academic shenanigans are understated if anything. Highly entertaining, and recommended for anyone who likes cozies with a light touch of satire.

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Having a bad hair day? Whip out your whisk, snatch up your spoon, and prepare your palate. Inside the pages of this cookbook are recipes that will bring you good cheer. Enjoy 160+ tasty recipes from Nancy J. Cohen’s popular Bad Hair Day cozy mystery series. Included in this cookbook are excerpts, cooking tips, and anecdotes written by hairstylist and savvy sleuth Marla Vail. From appetizers to desserts, Marla offers cooking tips and tricks along with commentary about the dishes she prepares for her family. Whether you’re a skilled cook or an eager novice, this cookbook will unravel the mystery of cooking. Put on your apron and plan to make some killer recipes.

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About the Author

Nancy J. Cohen

Bad Hair Day Mysteries

Nancy J. Cohen writes the Bad Hair Day Mysteries featuring South Florida hairstylist Marla Vail. Titles in this series have been named Best Cozy Mystery by Suspense Magazine, won a Readers’ Favorite gold medal, placed first in the Chanticleer International Book Awards and third in the Arizona Literary Awards. Nancy’s instructional guide, Writing the Cozy Mystery, was nominated for an Agatha Award and won a gold medal at the President’s Book Awards from the Florida Authors and Publishers Association. When not busy writing, Nancy enjoys cooking, fine dining, cruising, visiting Disney World, and shopping.

Author Links
Website: https://nancyjcohen.com
Blog: https://nancyjcohen.com/blog
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyJCohenAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nancyjcohen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyjcohen
Instagram: https://instagram.com/nancyjcohen
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/njcohen/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/nancy-j-cohen
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/nancyjcohen

The Wipeout Affair by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds

There’s trouble in paradise, in the hilarious second book of the Red Frog Beach Mystery Series. When the body of a beautiful wealthy local is found at an isolated surf camp, the owner calls on Lexie to help him figure out who did it in this delicious whodunit. Reluctant sleuth Lexie first turns to the police, but her sudden access to a treasure-trove of island secrets convinces her it’s time to solve another murder on her own.

Rachel Neuburger Reynolds

Red Frog Beach Mysteries

Rachel Neuburger Reynolds is the author of the Red Frog Beach Mystery Series. Book 1, Drowning Lessons, was released on May 21, 2019, and the second in the series, The Wipeout Affair, was released on October 17, 2019. She’s also working on a separate series, The Evelyn Bay Murder Mystery series, and has written book one The Death Of A Classic. If all goes as planned you’ll be reading this in 2020. This is the first of book of seven in the series. Two of her plays have been produced in recent years. The Silencer, a cautionary tale about the perils of online dating, premiered at the Edinburgh Festival, followed by a run in New York. Nepenthe, a one-woman show about the 1960’s Hollywood-fication of the Holocaust had its premiere in London, and she is currently in talks about a film adaptation in 2021. Previous to her life of putting pen to paper, she produced theatre in New York City for fifteen years. Though she bounces back and forth between London in New York my headquarters is in Crowhurst on the South Coast of the UK.

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April 21, 2018

The Silver Gun (An Art Deco Mystery) by L.A. Chandlar

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New York City, 1936. In the midst of the Great Depression, the Big Apple is defiantly striving toward an era infused with art, architecture, and economic progress under the dynamic Mayor La Guardia. But those in City Hall know that tumultuous times can inspire both optimism and deadly danger . . .

It’s been six months since Lane Sanders was appointed Mayor Fiorello “Fio” La Guardia’s new personal aide, and the twenty-three-year-old is sprinting in her Mary Janes to match her boss’s pace. Despite dealing with vitriol from the Tammany Hall political machine and managing endless revitalization efforts, Fio hasn’t slowed down a bit during his years in office. And luckily for Lane, his unpredictable antics are a welcome distraction from the childhood memories that haunt her dreams—and the silver gun she’ll never forget.
When Lane gets attacked and threatened by an assailant tied to one of most notorious gangsters in the city, even the mayor can’t promise her safety. The corrupt city officials seem to be using Lane as a pawn against Fio for disgracing their party in the prior election. But why was the assailant wielding the exact same gun from her nightmares?
Balancing a clandestine love affair and a mounting list of suspects, Lane must figure out how the secrets of her past are connected to the city’s underground crime network—before someone pulls the trigger on the most explosive revenge plot in New York history . . .

Character Interview

Evelyn Thorne, welcome to Island Confidential. Aside from the fact that you’re Lane Sanders’ aunt, what else should our readers know about you?
I am an artist at heart, and at a later age than I thought, I acquired a daughter in Lane when her parents were suddenly killed. I was a suffragist and I have friends all over the place. Readers should definitely keep a keen eye on my friends, they might have a pleasant surprise coming at some of my more colorful acquaintances. Something that no one knows, not even Lane nor any readers yet, is that I was married once. I think the dear author will bring that up at some point. She should – it’s an excellent story and accounts for my eccentric personality.
Which character in The Silver Gun do you get along with the best?
My closest friend is Mr. Kirkland. We’ve had a colorful past and he knows me best. I can’t help admire that he came in and adopted Lane just as much as I did. He’s gruff, but his heart is gold. And he bakes a mean scone. I am utterly useless at cooking.
Is there anyone of whom you’re not quite so fond?
I always have concerns where Lane’s friends –and enemies—are concerned. I have my eye on Uncle Louie, the most notorious gang boss in New York City, who has a curious penchant for actually helping Lane. But I also have concerns with Roxy and Lizzie, not to mention Lane’s boyfriends. I want to like Finn, but I’m not sure, he seems to have a lot behind those delightful eyes of his. And then Tucker… I just don’t know.
Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?
I like her, especially for giving me the scene where Lane and I paint to music. It was quite enjoyable. My favorite thing about Laurie is that she snuck in little features about myself and a “good friend” that is really Amelia Peabody from Elizabeth Peters. I’m obviously more bohemian than dear Amelia, but we are very dear friends. I also like that Laurie has promised not to kill off any of us main characters. Or the dog. At least not for quite a long while. I worry about that sometimes, of course.
What’s next for you?
Well, in book two, The Gold Pawn (release date September 25th), we have quite an exciting journey back to Michigan where Lane has to face the ghosts of her past in the hopes that she’ll discover some clues about her mysterious parents and perhaps shed some light on a new mystery here in New York. Thanksgiving is coming up and oh I have some lovely friends coming over. You might recognize some of them! I am very worried, though, because Lane is really struggling and she isn’t letting me in as much as I’d like. But I know her. She will overcome and be better for it.

About The Author

L.A. Chandlar is the author of the Art Deco Mystery Series with Kensington Publishing featuring Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia and a fresh take on the innovation and liveliness of 1930s New York City. Her debut novel, The Silver Gun released August 29, 2017, and the sequel, The Gold Pawn, will release September 25^th, 2018. Laurie has been living and writing in New York City for 16 years and has been speaking for a wide variety of audiences for over 20 years including a women’s group with the United Nations. Her talks range from NYC history, the psychology of creativity, and the history of holiday traditions. Laurie has also worked in PR for General Motors, writes and fund-raises for a global nonprofit is the mother of two boys, and has toured the nation managing a rock band.

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March 28, 2018

New paramedic mystery, giveaway, and character interview: Uneasy Prey by Annette Dashofy

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On the way to the emergency room, an elderly woman regains consciousness long enough to inform paramedic Zoe Chambers that her fall down the basement steps was no accident. Before she can say more, she succumbs to her injuries, launching Zoe and Police Chief Pete Adams into the investigation of a burglary ring targeting the area’s vulnerable senior citizens.

Zoe—in spite of Pete’s objections—takes it upon herself to act as protection detail after the con men, disguised as water company employees, set their sights on Zoe’s beloved former landlady. It’s a decision that eventually puts Zoe in harm’s way.
With Zoe already recovering from one close call, Pete must race against time to stop the crime ring—and a dangerous killer—before they strike again.

Character Interview: Zoe Chambers

Zoe, welcome to Island Confidential! Can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself?
I’ve been a paramedic since I was 23 but before that I wanted to be a veterinarian! Unfortunately, I was a horrible student in high school and in college, so that was not to be. Next, I thought I wanted to be a firefighter until Ted and Sylvia Bassi steered me toward EMS. I’ll be forever grateful they did because it’s a much better fit.
Who’s your favorite character in Uneasy Prey?
You’re probably expecting me to say Pete. I love Pete, but we disagree more than we agree. So, I’m going to say Sylvia. She’s a mother hen to just about everyone in Vance Township including me.
Is there any character you don’t get along with so well?
My mother. Absolutely, my mother. Why? We’re polar opposites in most matters. I was my daddy’s girl, and when we lost him when I was eight, neither of us handled it well. Mom remarried, and she and Tom moved to Florida when I was fifteen. I chose to stay behind, claiming I wanted to finish school here but the truth was I didn’t want to deal with her “diva complex” any longer. She’s high-fashion, and I’m t-shirts and barn boots. I think I’m a huge disappointment to her.
Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?
Annette’s okay. She “gets” me. I do wish she’d dress Pete in tighter jeans, but I guess I can’t have everything. And although she’s a vegetarian, she hasn’t made me give up my cheeseburgers and bacon!
What’s next for you?
I seem to have come into possession of a rundown farm. I have no idea how I’m going to come up with the money to make it livable for me and my horse. Maybe I need to ask Franklin Marshall to give me more duties (and more pay!) in the Coroner’s Office. (Cry Wolf, the 7th Zoe Chambers Mystery is scheduled for a September 2018 release!)

About The Author

Annette Dashofy is the USA Today best-selling author of the Zoe Chambers mystery series about a paramedic and deputy coroner in rural Pennsylvania’s tight-knit Vance Township. CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE, published by Henery Press, was a finalist for the Agatha Award for Best First Novel and for the David Award for Best Mystery of 2014. LOST LEGACY, was released in September 2014 followed in April 2015 by BRIDGES BURNED, which has been nominated for the Agatha for Best Contemporary Novel.
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March 16, 2018

Bonus character interview: Theodosia Browning from Laura Childs' Plum Tea Crazy

Theodosia Browning investigates a Charleston steeped in tradition and treachery in the latest Tea Shop Mystery from New York Times bestselling author Laura Childs.

While viewing the harbor’s Gaslights and Galleons Parade from the widow’s walk of Timothy Neville’s Charleston mansion, local banker Carson Lanier seemingly tumbles over a narrow railing, then plunges three stories to his death. But a tragic accident becomes something much more sinister when it’s discovered that the victim was first shot with a bolt from a crossbow.
At the request of the mansion owner, Theodosia investigates the tragedy and is soon neck deep in suspects. An almost ex-wife, a coworker, a real estate partner–all had motives for killing the luckless banker, but one resorted to murder to settle accounts.
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES AND TEA TIME TIPS!

Character Interview: Theodosia Browning

Theodosia, thanks for stopping by Island Confidential. Can you tell our readers something about yourself?
Besides being the proprietor of the Indigo Tea Shop in Charleston, SC, I’m sort of a true crime groupie. Murders, smash and grab robberies, they all fascinate me to no end. Which is probably why I enjoy doing a little amateur sleuthing. Picture this if you will – a two-hundred-year-old city with ancient alleys, haunted cemeteries, and fog continually creeping in from the pounding Atlantic. Now throw in historic mansions and quirky, wealthy residents with umpteen skeletons hidden in the attic. Now, wouldn’t you be fascinated too?
Of course–that sounds terrifying and intriguing. But you don’t do all of this sleuthing alone, do you? Do you have anyone else you can trust?
Drayton Conneley, my resident tea master, is the one who’s always got my back. Yes, he’s very proper, slightly fussy, and is a complete technophobe, but he still “gets” me. You know?
That sounds wonderful. Of course not everyone is as pleasant or helpful, I’d imagine. Is there anyone you don’t get along with quite so well?
When it comes to conflict, Detective Burt Tidwell of the Charleston PD takes the cake. First off, he’s this big burly bear of a guy who always assumes he knows best. Which he doesn’t. I mean, why should he get to doggone agitated when all I’m trying to do is figure out suspects and offer a little help? Really, I can’t figure it out.
Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?
Laura Childs was the one who breathed life into me, so I really shouldn’t complain. But, dear Lord, the perfectly horrible situations she puts me in are enough to curl your hair! Think floating dead bodies, fires, angry alligators, haunted cemeteries, stabbings, shootings, boat chases, and even a food truck chase. I say take it down a notch, Laura!
What’s next for you?
That crazy author of mine is working on the 20^th Tea Shop Mystery. And it looks as if she’s going to send a killer drone smack dab into the middle of a hot air balloon rally. Yes, balloons will crash and people will be killed. So that book’s probably going to be titled something like Shattered Teacups or Broken Bone China. It’s still up in the air right now (pun intended) but it does sound exciting!

About the Author

Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries – set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She’s also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn’t rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries – a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans’ spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries – set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe’s undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
Visit Laura’s webpage or find her on Facebook.

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March 13, 2018

Six Feet Under (A Kenni Lowry Mystery) by Tonya Kappes. With character interview!

Too many cooks in the kitchen spoil the broth. And let me tell you, this broth is in trouble. Get ready for a Southern showdown.

The residents of Cottonwood, Kentucky are sent into a tizzy when the Culinary Channel comes to town to film an episode of Southern Home Cookin’ with celebrity chef Frank Von Lee.
Especially Sheriff Kenni Lowry.
Her mama’s award-winning chicken pot pie is what brought Frank to town, and they don’t make hair in the South bigger than her mama’s ego after the news.
When Frank Von Lee is found dead from food poisoning and the most likely culprit is Mama’s chicken pot pie, Kenni’s poppa, the former sheriff, comes back from the Great Beyond to assist in the investigation.
But nothing’s prepared Kenni for such a personal tie to a case, and she finds herself pushing the limits of the laws she’s sworn to protect.
This book’s so delicious it’ll make your mouth water and leave you hankerin’ for more.

Character Interview

Vivian, welcome to Island Confidential! Can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself?
I’m a smidgen of a perfectionist. I know. . .my friend’s jaws will drop because I’m so selfless and caring and seem a bit carefree. I like things to go just so and I have a hard time letting go when they don’t. Now, I’m gonna trust that this is just between me and you because I don’t want any unruly rumors out there that I’m bragging on myself, because I’m not. Around these parts, rumors are ramped.
Who’s your favorite character in Six Feet Under?
Definitely my daughter, Kenni. I mean…Sheriff Kendrick Lowry. She’s been elected twice now. Did you hear that she’s dating the hunk deputy of her’s? Finn Vincent. Oh my. I’ve said too much. She might not like me telling you that but deep down, I know that she’s just over the moon. Over the moon!
Is there anyone you have a conflict with?
Everyone loves me and I love them. I’m not saying that I don’t have a few disagreements with some people and right now I don’t have time to be worried about anyone because the Culinary Channel is coming here to film me and my little famous chicken pot pie. See, everyone loves me.
Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?
She could put on some lipstick when she’s talking to me. I never understood why Tonya doesn’t live up to her southern roots. She really should get a bath and clean up before she goes to work. It’s not pretty.
What’s next for you?
I’m gonna be famous! My chicken pot pie is going to be tasted by the famous Chef Frank Von Lee. He’s going to make me famous. Youwhoooooo, Hollywood, here I come!

About the Author

For years, USA Today bestselling author Tonya Kappes has been publishing numerous mystery and romance titles with unprecedented success. She is famous not only for her hilarious plot lines and quirky characters, but her tremendous marketing efforts that have earned her thousands of followers and a devoted street team of fans.

For years, USA Today bestselling author Tonya Kappes has been publishing numerous mystery and romance titles with unprecedented success. She is famous not only for her hilarious plot lines and quirky characters but her tremendous marketing efforts that have earned her thousands of followers and a devoted street team of fans.
Sign up for her newsletter on her website at Tonyakappes.com .
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyakappes
Kappes Krew Street Team
https://www.facebook.com/groups/208579765929709/
Website
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4423580.Tonya_Kappes
Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/

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February 11, 2018

New Country Store Mystery by Maddie Day with Character Interview: Biscuits and Slashed Browns

For country-store owner Robbie Jordan, the National Maple Syrup Festival is a sweet escape from late-winter in South Lick, Indiana—until murder saps the life out of the celebration . . .As Robbie arranges a breakfast-themed cook-off at Pans ‘N Pancakes, visitors pour into Brown County for the annual maple extravaganza. Unfortunately, that includes Professor Connolly, a know-it-all academic from Boston who makes enemies everywhere he goes—and this time, bad manners prove deadly. Soon after clashing with several scientists at a maple tree panel, the professor is found dead outside a sugar shack, stabbed to death by a local restaurateur’s knife. When an innocent woman gets dragged into the investigation and a biologist mysteriously disappears, Robbie drops her winning maple biscuits to search for answers. But can she help police crack the case before another victim is caught in a sticky situation with a killer?

Character Interview: Robbie Jordan

Robbie, welcome to Island Confidential. Can you tell our readers something about yourself?
First let me thank you for giving me this opportunity to chat here! Well, I’m Robbie Jordan and I’m pleased to meet you all. I’m in my late twenties, and the owner and head chef at Pans ‘N Pancakes, my country store restaurant. Did you know I am a California girl? I’ve lived in southern Indiana for almost five years now, but I confess to missing the beaches of Santa Barbara and the smell of orange blossoms in the air in the winter. On the other hand, I’ve made a home for myself in small town South Lick and my country store has become a community gathering place, which was my dream for it.
Who’s your favorite other character in Biscuits and Slashed Browns?
I love hanging out with my Aunt Adele. She’s over seventy and going strong. She’s opinionated, competent, and caring. She lives on her sheep farm, but was formerly the mayor of South Lick and the fire chief before that. And can she ever bake bread!
Anyone you don’t get along with so well?
I’ve had my share of conflicts with state police detective Oscar Thompson. He doesn’t like the fact that sometimes I’ve figured out who the murderer is before he has. He’s good at his job but isn’t much of a people person. But we’re starting to work out our differences.
Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?
Maddie/Edith? She loves writing fiction, I’ll say that much for her. She’s at her desk writing by seven in the morning six days a week. She’s a pretty good cook, too, and loves gardening in the summer. She’d never be able to keep up with me on a bicycle, though – she says she doesn’t like riding uphill.
Robbie, what’s next for you?
I’m excited to be finishing my new bed and breakfast rooms upstairs, and that my father and his wife will be visiting from Italy in June! They’ll be my first guests, and my author says you can read about what happens in Death Over Easy, which will be out in late July.

About The Author

Maddie Day is a talented amateur chef and holds a PhD in linguistics from Indiana University. An Agatha Award-nominated author, she is a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America and also writes award-winning short crime fiction. She lives with her beau and three cats in Massachusetts.
As Edith Maxwell, she write the Local Foods Mysteries (Kensington Publishing) and the Quaker Midwife Mysteries (Midnight Ink).
You can find all Maddie’s/Edith’s identities at www.edithmaxwell.com. She blogs every week day with the other Wicked Cozy Authors at wickedcozyauthors.com. Look for her as Edith M. Maxwell and Maddie Day on Facebook and @edithmaxwell and @maddiedayauthor on Twitter.

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February 9, 2018

Vangie Vale and the Strangled Strudel (The Matchbaker Mysteries) by NYT Bestseller R.L. Syme

You could call it the straw that broke the camel’s back but it was more like a Montana forest timber. Just when Vangie Vale’s life was getting back to normal after a murder that rocked her little Rocky Mountain tourist town, she found herself in the middle of another murder… as the chief suspect.
Vangie stood shocked on the side of the curb as the sheriff stretched yellow crime scene tape around the front of her new bakery. Wouldn’t this make a lovely headline in next week’s paper: Local Baker Kills Parishioner With Pudding. Vangie’s road back to good graces as a part-time pastor was bumpy enough already. This would be a roadblock. Can’t have that.
Book Three in a cozy culinary mystery series from USA Today Bestselling Author, R.L. Syme.

Character Interview with Sheriff Malcom Dean

Sheriff Dean, welcome to Island Confidential! Can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself?
I’m the Sheriff in Twin Valley County, Montana, and I have a son named Chandler. I don’t live with Chandler’s mother anymore. We’ve been divorced for awhile, and it was…a trial. Something readers might not guess about me: I’m not a sports fan. I’ll watch hockey if I have to. But I’m not much for sports.
Who is your favorite character in Strangled Strudel?
Can I say “myself”? Because that’s probably the most accurate. Everyone annoys me on some level. If people would follow the rules and do what they’re supposed to do, we’d get along better. I don’t like rule-breakers.
Is there anyone you don’t get along with so well?
It would be too easy to say “Vangie”, because I think that’s what this question is insinuating. That somehow, Vangie and I are destined for conflict. Who knows. Maybe you’re right. But I would actually say “Derek”. I don’t like that guy. He’s a rule-breaker. Always looking for a way to get around the law.
Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?
Becca? I think she’s nosy. And she creates a lot of trouble. And talk about rule-breakers. In fact, can I change my answer to the last question? The author is a character in the world, too. I might have to pick her. She’s the source of all these troubles in my town.
Sheriff, what’s next for you?
Hopefully, no more murders. Let’s count on that.

About The Author

Rebecca Syme writes small town romance as Becca Boyd and cozy mystery as R.L. Syme. She is a long-time foodie and loves fancy cheese. Becca calls the mountains of Montana her home and draws inspiration from the beautiful vistas and heartwarming people. She is the USA Today bestselling author of the Line of Fire series of sweet romances and part of the Chick Tales series set in Somewhere, TX. You can find her on Twitter talking #fancycheese or #Chopped, and on Facebook with her fans in Becca Nation.

Webpage http://rlsyme.com/
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bighopesbigheroes/
Becca Nation Facebook Fan Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BeccaNation/
Twitter @beck_a_tron
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6878258.R_L_Syme
Amazon Author Page

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January 21, 2018

First in a new cozy series: Murder of a Good Man by Teresa Trent

When Nora Alexander drives into Piney Woods, Texas, to fulfill her dying mother’s last wish, she has no idea what awaits her. First she is run off the road, then the sealed letter she delivers turns out to be a scathing rebuke to the town’s most beloved citizen and favored candidate for Piney Woods Pioneer: Adam Brockwell. Next thing you know, Adam has been murdered in a nasty knife attack.

Suspicion instantly falls on Nora, one of the last people to see him alive. After all, everyone in Piney Woods loved him. Or did they? Nora learns that her mother had a complicated past she never shared with her daughter. Told not to leave town by Tuck the flirty sheriff, Nora finds a job with Tuck’s Aunt Marty trying to get the rundown Tunie Hotel back in the black. The old hotel was Piney Woods’ heart and soul in its heyday as an oil boomtown. Now the secrets it harbors may be the key to getting Nora off the hook. She’s going to need to solve the mystery quickly to avoid arrest, or worse: becoming the killer’s next victim.

Character Interview: Nora Alexander

Nora, welcome to Island Confidential. Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Nora Alexander and I have recently lost my mother. Upon her death I found a letter she had written to a man in Piney Woods, Texas. Texas? Really? Anyway, I took off for a state I had never been to and tracked this man down. From what I could figure, it must have been a love letter, because why else would it concern my mother in her final days?

Who’s your favorite character in Murder of a Good Man?

Luckily, when I hit town, I found a room at the Piney Woods Bed and Breakfast and met Tatty and Ed Tovar. They are the owners of the B&B and Tatty has a wonderful gift of smoothing things over. Having Tatty and her husband Ed around has provided a home away from home for me.

Anyone you’re not so fond of?

Tuck Watson is the law around this town and he is determined to arrest me. For what, I can’t tell you right now, but the man is infuriating, and handsome, but infuriating!

Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author, Teresa?

So, she writes my scenes and then rewrites them and then rewrites them again. Some days I feel like I’m on a loop that can’t stop repeating. I guess I like the scene better when she’s finished, but gee whiz, some days I want her to just give it a rest!

What’s next for you?

Well, I have some big changes in this book, and I can’t tell you too much without giving it away…but…it has a lot to do with cats.

Teresa Trent lives in Houston, Texas and is an award-winning mystery writer. She writes the Pecan Bayou Mystery Series, is a regular contributor to the Happy Homicides Anthologies. Teresa is happy to add her Henry Park Mystery Series to her publishing credits with Color Me Dead, the first book in the series. Teresa has also won awards for her work in short stories where she loves to dabble in tales that are closer to the Twilight Zone than small town cozies. When Teresa isn’t writing, she is a full-time caregiver for her son and teaches preschoolers music part-time. Her favorite things include spending time with family and friends, waiting for brownies to come out of the oven, and of course, a good mystery.
Author Links
FACEBOOK:   https://www.facebook.com/teresatrentmysterywriter
TWITTER:   https://twitter.com/ttrent_cozymys
BLOG: https://teresatrent.wordpress.com/
WEBSITE:   http://teresatrent.com

November 4, 2016

#Death at First Sight- Character Interview

It doesn’t take a crystal ball to see that something’s not right on Bay Island…

Since she left her psychiatric practice in New York City to open up a psychic shop in her hometown on Bay Island, Cass Donovan has given her fair share of readings to conflicted customers. But what she sees in Ellie Callahan’s future doesn’t bode well.
When Ellie’s mother, Marge, publicly confronts Cass about the reading, the embarrassment makes her want to curl up and die. And when she later stumbles across Marge’s body—and is a suspect in her murder—Cass is suddenly the star of Bay Island’s rumor mill.
Cass is determined to prove her innocence and save Ellie from meeting the fate in her unfortunate vision. But even with the help of her friends Bee and Stephanie, Cass will have to channel some serious sleuthing instincts to find the real killer…

Q: Cass, thanks for stopping by Island Confidential! Tell our readers a little bit about yourself–maybe something we might not guess?
A: My name is Cass Donovan, and I own a small psychic shop on Bay Island, a small island nestled between the north and south shores of Long Island, New York. Since I own a psychic shop, readers might not guess that I’m not actually psychic. At least, I never thought I was, though a few recent incidents have me questioning that assessment. Typically, I use my intuition, as well as years of psychiatric training, to dissect the small tells people don’t even realize they give away on a regular basis. Those gestures and subtle nuances usually give me enough information to come up with a fairly accurate “reading.”
Q: Who’s the character you get along with the best?
A: I’d probably have to say I get along best with my friend, Stephanie. We were childhood friends growing up on Bay Island, then fell out of touch for seventeen years when I went away to college and didn’t return. When I finally came back to Bay Island, our friendship picked up as if no time had passed at all. Of course, her husband, Tank, is a bit of a problem, only because he thinks I’m a bad influence and a magnet for trouble. I’m not sure where he got that idea from. Okay, maybe I have some idea…
Q: Which other character do you have a conflict with?
A: My biggest conflict is with Marge Hawkins. I don’t have anything against her, really, except that she’s giving my friend, Bee, a hard time, but she has no use for me. She doesn’t believe in what I do and wants me to stay away from her daughter, Ellie. But Ellie and I are friends, and I would never offer her bad advice. And she trusts me, coming to me often for readings. One day, after she finds out I did a reading for Ellie, she calls me out in the middle of the deli. In case you don’t know, the deli is pretty much gossip central, so a public confrontation there spreads throughout the island like wildfire.
Q: Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author, Lena Gregory?
A: Well, don’t ever tell her I said so, but she’s kind of stubborn. Sometimes, I try to tell her how to tell my story, and she insists on writing it her own way. Usually, I just shut up and let her do her thing, fully content she’ll back up and do it the way I told her to. She’d save herself a lot of time and frustration if she just did it my way in the first place.
Q: What’s next for you?
A: Winters on Bay Island don’t bring much business, so I’m working on a way to generate some extra income for the season. I don’t want to give away the surprise, but let’s just say it involves a séance and a haunted house.

About the Author

Lena lives in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island with her husband and three children.
When she was growing up, she spent many lazy afternoons on the beach, in the yard, anywhere she could find to curl up with a good book. She loves reading as much now as she did then, but she now enjoys the added pleasure of creating her own stories.

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November 1, 2016

#Giveaway and Character Interview: Julie Mulhern's Send in the #Clowns

>>>Enter to win an ebook by Julie Mulhern!<<<

Haunted houses are scary enough without knife-wielding clowns. Especially murderous knife-wielding clowns. So thinks Ellison Russell, single mother, artist, and reluctant sleuth.

The most likely culprit is disgruntled real estate agent Flora Curtival, whose issues with the town give her a motive. But when Flora is murdered and one of Rory’s toy rabbits is found with the body, Rory needs all the luck she can get while trying to determine just who killed the superstitious vandal.

Q: Today we have artist and amateur sleuth Ellison Russell as our guest. Ellison, tell our readers a little bit about yourself–maybe something they might not guess?

A: Most readers will guess that I drink an insane amount of coffee. Some may even surmise I drink a fair amount of wine. What no one may guess is that I adore Tab with lime.

Q: Who’s the character you get along with the best?

A: I get along well with Libba. We share a love of coffee, and a deep and abiding dislike of raisins, and a taste for wine. We also love to shop. This season boots and coats top my want list. In fact, there’s a coat in the window at Hall’s Plaza I want more than coffee—and that’s saying something.

Q: Which other character do you have a conflict with?

Mother and I have been known to cross swords. She remains convinced that I’m a teenager trapped in a middle-aged woman’s body and that only she can steer me in the right direction—namely into Hunter Tafft’s waiting arms. Of late, she takes strong objection to my finding bodies. That I don’t find them on purpose (really, who would go look for a body?) makes no never-mind to Mother.

Q: Just between you and me: What do you really think of your author?

A: My author? She needs to sleep more, drink less coffee, cut out chocolate, and find her gym shoes!

Q: What’s next for you?

A: I’ll be back in May, when—much to Mother’s dismay—my decorator is murdered while measuring for new carpet!

About The Author
Julie Mulhern is a Kansas City native who grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie. She ~~spends her spare time whipping up gourmet meals for her family, working out at the gym and finding new ways to keep her house spotlessly clean~~ is an expert at calling for take-out, she grumbles about walking the dog, and the dust bunnies under the bed have grown into dust lions.

Her first romance, A Haunting Desire, was a finalist in the 2014 Golden Heart® contest.
The Deep End is her first mystery and winner of The Sheila Award.

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