Showing posts with label mystery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mystery. Show all posts

Murder Under Redwood Moon by Sherri Dodd: Blog Tour & Giveaway

Monday, November 24, 2025

Murder Under Redwood Moon: A Witch Paranormal Murder Mystery (Murder, Tea & Crystals - A Trilogy Book 1) by Sherri L. Dodd

What is a witch like? If you're picturing the old crones from Macbeth you aren't thinking of modern day witches. Instead modern day witches are more girl-next-door with a community that is less likely to burn them at the stake and more likely to ask them to use their extra special gifts for a little help. Murder Under Redwood Moon will introduce you to modern witches, as a young witch uses her powers to help unravel a mystery and a murder.  Join us as we celebrate the launch of this book with a giveaway and an interview with the author, Sherri Dodd.

But before we get to that, here's more about her book:

At the age of eight, Arista Kelly was frantically swept up by her parents and whisked off to an isolated town in the California redwoods. Two days later, her parents were gone.

Now at the age of twenty-three, she has settled quite nicely into an eclectic lifestyle, much like her great aunt, and guardian since childhood, Bethie. She enjoys the use of herbs and crystals to help her commune with the energy and nature around her and finds pleasure in the company of her beloved pet, Royal. Usually quite satisfied with her mundane life high in the Santa Cruz Mountains, life becomes unsettling when a new recurring vision of an ominous tattoo as well as increased activity from the ghostly presence within her own cottage invade her once-harmonious existence.

But life in this mountain sanctuary takes an even darker turn when the body of Arista's former classmate is found in the nearby river. As other young young women fall prey to a suspected serial killer, Arista realizes that the terror is coming to her.

Publisher: Independently Published(March 20, 2024)
AISN:  B0CTKPM863
ISBN: 1685133886
ISBN-13: 978-1685133887
Print length:  289 pages

Purchase your copy on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Bookshop.org. You'll also want to add it to your GoodReads reading list.

About the Author, Sherri Dodd

Sherri was raised in southeast Texas. Walking barefoot most days and catching crawdads as they swam the creek beds, she had a love for all things free and natural. Her childhood ran rampant with talk of ghosts, demons, and backcountry folklore. This inspired her first short story for sale about a poisonous flower that shot toxins onto children as they smelled it. Her classmate bought it for all the change in his pocket. It was not long after that her mother packed the two of them up and headed to the central coast of California. She has ping-ponged throughout the area ever since.

Her first real step into writing was the non-fiction fitness book, Mom Looks Great – The Fitness Program for Moms published in 2005, and maintaining its accompanying blog. Now, transmuting
the grief of her father's passing, she has branched into Fiction, specifically the genre of Paranormal Thriller with generous dashes of Magick Realism! Her Murder, Tea & Crystals Trilogy released book one - Murder Under Redwood Moon - in March 2024. Book two - Moonset on Desert Sands - released in March 2025, and the final book in the series – Hummingbird Moonrise – became #1 New Release in Occult Supernatural on Amazon in October 2025!


--Interview by Jodi M. Webb

WOW: Tell us a little about your writing journey. 
 
Sherri: My first book was a small, unsponsored project with no marketing budget. In 2005, after being told by many that I would not regain my figure after pregnancy, I was shocked that kickboxing and weights returned my body to its pre-natal fitness level and felt I had to share the process. I sold about two hundred books. 

Fast forward almost twenty years later, my life raft from empty nest syndrome consisted of returning to the fitness industry. Since I had kept my Personal Training certification current since 2001 and, during COVID, certified in Yoga and began teaching UJAM, I figured it an easy transition. This all fizzled when I tore my meniscus, had surgery, and realized that my body had other ideas. Feeling woeful, I happened upon an online writing contest about a barn owl, entered, and decided while waiting for the outcome that my three-page essay was a mystical premise that could be a larger story. Fresh from crystal shopping that day and sipping a cup of hot Blueberry Lavender tea, I started elaborating. Three years and nine hundred pages later, the Murder, Tea, and Crystals Trilogy was complete!

WOW: A writing contest, crystals and blueberry lavender tea (which sounds delightful) steered you toward magick realism. Are there any other genres you would like to tackle?
 
Sherri: I’d like to write a horror novel. I am a huge horror fan and have been since our local theater let my friends and I in as fourteen-year-olds to watch R-rated slasher flicks after school. I think I could put an enticing spin on the genre without resorting to torture or gratuitous violence. While those factors appeal to many, they are not for me! I have also started a psychological thriller that may make it to press someday, but another story holds my attention for now. More on that to follow.

WOW: In your series, your characters travel to several places throughout the western US. Are these places that are special to you personally? 
 
Sherri: A few reviewers have noted that the redwood forest in my trilogy seems to be a character in and of itself. I see why, but unless you’ve walked amongst the redwoods in one of the many California parks, you cannot even fathom the magnitude of their impression upon you. 

Likewise, Sedona is mentioned in my second installment. While I haven’t lived there, my husband and I had taken a few memorable trips. The rich, red-rock monuments were so stoic and stolid against the crisp blue sky and left me stilled inside from their presence. It’s also considered a very spiritual area, so I thought it would add a new spin on the mysticism of the trilogy. I took a couple solo trips for further inspiration. 

Finally, Spokane is mentioned in the latter two books. This would not be a place that many flock to despite a few accolades, including having the largest U.S. urban water fall and hosting the ’74 World’s Fair. However, while my youngest attended Gonzaga University, I really enjoyed the area and could see myself living there upon retirement. I was especially taken with the Bowl & Pitcher Park with its rushing river and suspension bridge that places you right above the spectacle. It contained an exhilarating amount of reckless energy which is why I had my antagonist live in this area.

WOW: What made you decide to write a trilogy instead of open-ended series? 
 
Sherri: I had no idea I would write a trilogy, but by the end of book one, I loved my characters, had familial encouragement, and rolled it right into a book two with the closing scene. Book 2 ran a little long, so I decided to add one more book and, in doing so, created a couple more storylines that I could tie up in the final installment. I felt no boredom with this series at all and left one little hook in the event I ever want to return.

WOW: Your love for your characters definitely shows in your books. They're so fresh and lively. When you aren't hanging out with your characters what do you do for fun?
 
Sherri: Fitness has kept me mentally and physically healthy since I was an early teen. I do a lot of hiking in the rolling hills of Gilroy and the redwood forest of Santa Cruz County, and love an oceanside walk down West Cliff Drive. The latter of which is featured in Murder Under Redwood Moon as Arista and Shane attempt their first real date. I also thrive on a high-intensity UJAM or kickboxing class or simple weights in the gym. For me, I have found that exercise is the best medication for mental well-being!

WOW: You are energetic. I'm also a walker but I'm more low-intensity. What's up next with your writing career? I almost felt like another magic realism series was being hinted at in Book 3.
 
Sherri: While I love the magick realism and paranormal genres, I am working on a coming-of-age thriller set in the summer of ’85 – a time of the rising popularity of the Bay Area Metal scene (think Metallica, Megadeth, etc.), Satanic Panic, and two of California’s most prolific serial killers. The story is loosely based on my own experiences!

WOW: What an incredible way to switch gears. I can't wait to relive 1985 through your work.

Murder Under Redwood Moon by Sherri L. Dodd Blog Tour

--Blog Tour Calendar

November 24th @ The Muffin
Join us as we celebrate the launch of the first book in Sherri Dodd's Murder, Tea & Crystals trilogy: Murder Under the Redwood Moon. Read an interview with the author and enter to win the whole trilogy. Two winners!

November 25th @ All Things Writing
How does an introvert survive book promotion? Author Sherri Dodd tells us how she promoted and lived to tell the tale!

December 1st @ Word Magic
What is Magick Realism? Author Sherri Dodd shares her take on the genre of her trilogy Murder, Tea & Crystals.

December 2nd @ Cozy Home Delights 
Get Ashley's take on Murder Under Redwood Moon, Sherri Dodd's paranormal murder mystery.
https://cozyhomedelight.com/reviews

December 3rd @ Chapter Break 
Enjoy a good crime read? Mystery author Sherri Dodd shares a few of her favorites today at Chapter Break.

December 3rd @ Cozy Home Delights 
Sherri Dodd, author of the Murder, Tea and Crystals trilogy, tells us about her Three Favorite Barbies. 
https://cozyhomedelight.com/reviews

December 4th @ Knotty Needle
Judy's posting her review of Murder Under Redwood Moon by Sherri Dodd.

December 9th @ Words by Webb
Like your mysteries with a twist? Check out a paranormal mystery: Murder Under Redwood Moon.

December 10th @ Kaecey McCormick
Kaecey is getting writing tips from Sherri Dodd in today's author interview.
https://www.kaeceymccormick.com/

December 12th @ Author Anthony Avina
Novelist Sherri Dodd shares the Challenges of Writing About Witchcraft & Anthony reviews the first book in her trilogy: Murder Under Redwood Moon.

December 14th @ Boots, Shoes and Fashion
Stop for an interview with Sherri Dodd, author of the Murder, Tea & Crystals trilogy.

December 17th @ A Wonderful World Of Words
Don't miss your chance to read a review of Murder Under Redwood Moon and a chance to win the entire trilogy!

December 21st @ Boys' Mom Reads
Escape the holiday craziness with a dash of magic when Karen reviews Murder Under Redwood Moon.

***** BOOK GIVEAWAY *****

TWO WINNERS! Enter to win the entire Murder, Tea & Crystals trilogy by Sherri Dodd: Murder Under Redwood Moon, Moonset on Desert Sands and Hummingbird Moonrise. Fill out the form below for a chance to win. The giveaway ends December 7th at 11:59 pm CT. We will randomly draw a winner the next day and follow up via email. Good luck!

Murder, Tea and Crystals Trilogy Giveaway!
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Lost Heart In King Manor by Celeste Fenton: Blog Tour & Giveaway

Monday, September 15, 2025
Lost Heart in King Manor by Celeste Fenton

I'm always excited to introduce readers to fun characters that seem to leap off the page like those in Lost Heart in King Manor. But it's even better because author Celeste Fenton is launching a series and her characters will stop by for welcome visits in subsequent books. Celeste has finally made that timeless question "What do I feel like reading?" unnecessary. Her debut novel gives us a pinch of everything: cozy mystery, suspense, romance, second chances, humor, beautiful settings.  Join us as we celebrate the launch of this book with a giveaway of the book and a $25 Amazon gift card and an interview with the author.

But before we get to that, here's more about her book:

Lost Heart in King Manor is a thrilling story of love, passion, and determination. The plot has twists and turns that will keep the reader guessing all through. 

Because some secrets are worth killing for.

And some hearts don’t break quietly.

At 45, Gabby Heart isn’t looking for drama—just quiet days on Dost Island running her village gift shop, teaching art, and keeping her past tucked safely away. But when her mother suffers a sudden health crisis, Gabby is pulled into a storm of family secrets, betrayal, and a dark legacy buried within the walls of the once-grand King Manor. 

What was supposed to be a safe place for her mother’s recovery becomes the backdrop for a chilling mystery. Strange incidents begin to unfold, and it becomes clear: someone inside King Manor has a deadly agenda. As a hurricane traps Gabby inside the sprawling estate, she’s forced to work alongside two very different men—her maddeningly attractive officemate and a charming new neighbor, both hiding dark secrets. 

One man may want her heart. The other may want her dead. But can she trust her instincts before it's too late?

Publisher: Independently Published (April 15, 2025)
ISBN: 979-8280071773
AISN: B0F2ZML3M9
Print length:  347 pages

Purchase your copy on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Bookshop.org. You'll also want to add it to your GoodReads reading list.

About the Author, Celeste Fenton

Celeste Fenton holds an M.Ed. and Ph.D. in education and has over thirty years’ experience in higher education. Her writing is fueled by a lifelong love of mystery, a fascination with the complexities of the human heart, and just enough real-world experience to keep things interesting. A widow, mother of adult twin sons, proud grandmother, dog lover, and semi-retired professor living in Florida, she weaves imagination with insight to create stories that are both emotionally rich and laced with suspense.

When she’s not writing, reading, or plotting her next twist, she’s often off exploring small towns across America—setting out solo for month-long adventures, much to the awe (and occasional alarm) of friends and family. Her latest obsessions include escape rooms, mastering the perfect miter cut for a DIY bathroom remodel, and making the impossible decision of where to travel next.


--Interview by Jodi M. Webb

WOW: Congratulations on your debut mystery, Lost Heart in King Manor. As a big fan of the mystery genre, I’m always eager to know why you chose to write in the mystery genre?

Celeste: Thank you! Even as a kid, I loved a good mystery—especially the kind that kept me up way past bedtime with a flashlight under the covers. Growing up, I read everything in our small-town library, from Nancy Drew to Victoria Holt, and eventually moved on to Agatha Christie, Sherlock Holmes, and romantic suspense. I was a huge Murder, She Wrote fan—still am, really. I think I fell in love with the idea that even in a chaotic world, a clever woman with a sharp mind and a stubborn streak could find the truth. Writing Lost Heart in King Manor felt like coming full circle—mixing suspense, family secrets, and a little romance with characters I’d actually want to have coffee with… or interrogate.

WOW: Tell us a little about your writing journey. When did you begin writing and what led to the decision to write a book?

Celeste: I’d been putzing around with writing ideas for years—jotting things down in journals, daydreaming about stories—but like a lot of people, life and work always seemed to get in the way. That was my excuse, anyway. Then in 2021, everything shifted. My husband passed away, both of my beloved dogs died, and I lost a dear friend to cancer. It was a season of deep loss. 

But in the middle of that grief, I realized something: life wasn’t going to wait for me to write a book. And when I really reflected on it, the truth was not that I had been too busy to write. It was deeper: I was afraid. Afraid of failure, of rejection. If I had a story to tell—and I did—it was time to get moving. I had to stop waiting for the “perfect time” and start now. I gave myself permission to let go of the fear and finally chase the dream. And once I did, the story poured out. 

WOW: Finding that elusive "perfect time" to write. Was that the most challenging part of writing?

Celeste: The most challenging part? Hands down—marketing. I didn’t even have a social media account when I started. I thought TikTok was the sound my clock made. Now I’m learning hashtags, filming videos, and figuring out how to post reels and tag folks! I’m terrible at it, but getting there!

WOW: And then, just when you feel like you've got a handle on marketing, something new pops up! That's how I feel, at least. So what's been the most rewarding part of writing?

Celeste: The most rewarding part is watching the story come to life. Seeing the characters evolve into people I care deeply about. And hearing from readers who love them too—or who yell at me because of something a character did. That connection is magic. Knowing something I wrote made someone laugh, or cry, or stay up too late reading? That’s magic to me.

WOW: Do you belong to a writing group or have a group of beta-readers that helped when you were writing your book?

Celeste: When I started writing… I really just dove in. Quite naively, to be honest. I wasn’t even aware of writing groups or beta reader networks—I just had a story I needed to tell and hoped for the best.

I didn’t belong to a formal writing group, but I had what I like to call my “squad”—four trusted friends who read early drafts and gave me feedback, kindly but honestly. And one especially dear friend who re-read and edited so many times, I’m fairly certain she could recite the book by heart at this point. They helped me see what worked, what didn’t, and most importantly, they kept me going when I wanted to toss the whole thing in a drawer.

Now that Lost Heart in King Manor is published—and the sequel, Captive Heart at Brantmar Castle, releases September 22—I’m exploring beta reader teams, ARCs, and maybe even a writing group. I’ve learned that writing might be solitary, but publishing thrives on community.

WOW: We hope you find a welcoming group here with the WOW community. Why did self-publishing appeal to you for your mystery series?

Celeste: At first, I thought I’d try the traditional route—but once I started researching, I realized self-publishing gave me something I really valued: creative control. I wanted to shape the series the way I envisioned it—everything from the cover design to the pacing of the release schedule to how I connected with readers.

And let’s be honest, I’m not twenty-five. I didn’t want to spend years waiting on gatekeepers to tell me yes or no. I’d already waited long enough to start writing. Self-publishing let me take ownership of the process, and while it’s definitely a learning curve, it’s also incredibly empowering. Plus, I’ve discovered a whole world of supportive indie authors and readers, indie bookstores, and resources  out there. 

WOW: After reading Lost Heart in King Manor, I want to visit Dost Island! Is it based on a real place? How do you think a great setting adds to a book?

Celeste: I love this question because one of my passions is traveling across America, especially through small towns. There’s something so charming about those little towns and villages—where the Main Street still has a neighborhood hardware store, and everyone waves at you even if they don’t know you. I’ve spent a lot of time in New England and absolutely fell in love with those seaside communities and postcard perfect charm. Dost Island was inspired by that—but with a touch of my own imagination and mystery stirred in.

For me, setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of the story. Small towns create this illusion of safety, of community, of knowing everyone’s business. There’s a sense of tradition, fellowship, and comfort. But what I love about writing mystery is pulling back that curtain—asking, what’s really going on behind those white picket fences? That cute little shop? That contrast—the cozy surface and the darker undercurrent—is perfect for suspense.

A setting like Dost Island lets me play with that tension. It can feel warm and familiar one minute, and eerie the next. And in a mystery, that’s gold.

WOW: I definitely felt the contrast of the charming down and the secretive undercurrent in your book. Tell us more about your main character Gabby. Is she your literary counterpart? 

Celeste: Well… I think my curiosity, impatience, and a little spunk definitely found their way into Gabby. She’s not me—but she thinks fast, feels deeply, and sometimes blurts things she probably shouldn’t, and… well, let’s just say that felt familiar!

But honestly, there’s a little bit of me scattered across many of the characters—not just Gabby. Some of them carry my snark, some my passions or old wounds. Others reflect people I love. I’ve borrowed some of the best traits from my friends and family—kindness, wit, loyalty, that fierce protectiveness—and tucked them into the people on the page. I do think most writers weave themselves into their characters, whether they mean to or not. It’s like we crack open parts of ourselves and rearrange the pieces into someone new. That’s where the truth—and the fun—lives.

WOW: What would we find if we took a peek at your bookshelf?

Celeste: I think I’m kind of moody when it comes to reading. Depending on my mood, I’ll binge mysteries, or suspense, or romance (could be contemporary or historical), thrillers…when Game of Thrones was dominating HBO/Max, I binged George R.R. Martin. My bookcases are stocked with M.C. Beaton, Janet Evanovich, Charlain Harris, Linda Howard, J. D. Rob, C.J. Box, for romance Lisa Kleypas, Sarah MacLean, Eloisa James, Emily Henry, Elizabeth Berg, Elizabeth Strout…I could go on and on. 

I’ve always been inspired by authors who mix strong characters with a compelling sense of place. I love a story that’s a little mysterious, a little emotional, and makes you want to step right into the world they’ve created. Lord, I cried buckets over The Tale of Edgar Sawtelle.

Right now, I’m reading The Atomic City Girls by Janet Beard—a wonderful novel inspired by true events during World War II. I’m a sucker for historical fiction with heart and grit. Waiting in the wings on my nightstand are The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Rodham, and People We Meet on Vacation—so you can see I’m all over the map, genre-wise! 
  
WOW: But that's half the fun! Now you've gicven me a few books to add to my TBR list. What’s up next with your writing career?

Celeste: Well, the adventure continues! My second book in the Mysteries of a Heart series—Captive Heart at Brantmar Castle—releases September 22. Gabby and a few familiar faces journey to Scotland, where a remote castle, buried secrets, and an incoming snowstorm create the perfect storm for a twisty, emotional mystery. Meanwhile, back on Dost Island, loved ones are grappling with an unsettling crisis of their own—unraveling the truth behind a string of missing boys.

Following that, Broken Heart at Avalon Chateau is scheduled for winter 2026. Jay offers a much-needed escape to his newly inherited chateau in northern Canada… but let’s just say peace and quiet aren’t on the itinerary. As Gabby and the gang uncover danger and deception up north, their friends back on Dost Island are trying to solve the murder of the island’s beloved librarian.

And there’s more! Book Four—Wild Heart at Crest Edge Villa—takes Gabby and friends to Tasmania after Anna’s half-brother dies under mysterious circumstances. A cryptic letter leads them deep into the wilderness in a motorhome (what could go wrong?), where a wrong turn becomes a survival story with eerie twists, ancestral secrets, and a stalker in the shadows. Book Five—Rescued Heart at Water’s Edge—is also outlined. After barely escaping Tasmania, the group ends up shipwrecked on an uncharted island. 

It’s been a wild ride, and I’m loving every moment. I never imagined I’d be here, doing this, at this stage of my life—but I’m proof it’s never too late to chase a dream… or write yourself into a mystery.

WOW: I love that your characters are going to be popping all over the world chasing adventure - and danger. Thanks for giving us a sneak peek and sharing your inspiring writing journey with us.

Lost Heart in King Manor by Celeste Fenton Blog Tour and Giveaway


--Blog Tour Calendar

September 15th @ The Muffin
Join us as we celebrate the launch of Celeste Fenton's debut novel filled with romance and suspense: Lost Heart in King Manor. Read an interview with the author and enter to win a copy of her book.

September 16th @ All Things Writing
Don't miss author Celeste Fenton's advice on Setting the Stage for Suspense.

September 17th @ Chapter Break 
Today's guest is Celeste Fenton, telling the story of Publishing at 69! It’s Never Too Late for a Story.

September 19th @ What Is That Book About 
The spotlight's on romance and suspense with Celeste Fenton's debut novel Lost Heart in King Manor.

September 22nd @ Lisa Haselton's Reviews & Interviews
Meet Celeste Fenton, the author behind Lost Heart in King Manor and the Mysteries of a Heart series.

September 25th @ Words by Webb
Jodi reviews a novel for reader that like a good dose of adventure with their romance: Lost Heart in King Manor.

October 1st @ Avonna Loves Genres
Start the month off right with a review of Lost Heart in King Manor & a book giveaway.

October 2nd @ Some Thoughts. Everything Creativity
Stop by for a review of the first book in Celeste Fenton's mystery series: Lost Heart in King Manor.

October 3rd @ Books R Us
Author Celeste Fenton is visiting today with the guest post From Barbie to Breakdown: Writing About Complex Women

October 4th @ Three Things on a Saturday Night
Searching for some Saturday fun? Lost Heart in king Manor made the list of Three Things on a Saturday Night! Check out the review.

October 7th @ A Wonderful World of Books
Enter to win a copy of Lost Heart in King Manor. Author Celeste Fenton also share a guest post: Cozy Mystery Doesn’t Have to be Cute: Grit and Grace in Your Cozy.

October 9th @ Knotty Needle
Stop by for a review of Lost Heart of King Manor by Celeste Fenton.

October 10th @ Some Thoughts. Everything Creativity
Novelist Celeste Fenton is posting about Using Weather as A Metaphor. 

October 19th @ Just Katherine
Everyone loves a romance! Find out how Celeste Fenton writes it with the guest post Second Chances, Slow Burn: Crafting the Romance in Lost Heart.


Lost Heart in King Manor and a $25 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway


***** MYSTERY NOVEL & GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY *****

The giveaway is open to US residents for a print copy. Enter to win a print copy of Lost Heart in King Manor by Celeste Fenton and a $25 Amazon gift card! Fill out the Gleam form below for a chance to win. The giveaway ends September 28th at 11:59 pm CT. We will randomly draw a winner the next day via Gleam and follow up via email. Good luck!

Lost Heart in King Manor Giveaway

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Have You Seen Him by Kimberly Lee: Reader Review Event & Giveaway

Friday, July 25, 2025
Have You Seen Him by Kimberly Lee

I'm excited to announce our reader review event for Have You Seen Him by Kimberly Lee. This book is perfect if you want an edge-of-your-seat thriller that will keep you up at night until you find out what happens next.

We'll be celebrating the launch of the event by sharing reviews from our community and giving you a chance to win a copy of the book for yourself.

But before we get into what our readers thought, here's more about the book:

For David Byrdsong, life is a series of daily obligations. An attorney, he lacks both ambition and the ability to commit to a long-term relationship with his girlfriend, Gayle. Abandoned by his family at an airport when he was eleven, he learned to blunt his feelings, despite his subsequent adoption by a loving couple.

Until one day, when David discovers his own face in a missing child ad. Suddenly driven to uncover the truth about his past, he is forced to tap into his inner strength as he encounters corporate conspiracies, murdered bystanders, and distressing suspicions about the only family he’s ever really trusted. David enlists Gayle's help—and the help of an unlikely stranger with secrets of his own—as he attempts to find his true family, whoever they are.

Thrilling, exploratory, and propulsive, Have You Seen Him is a story of lost identity, dangerous secrets, and a deeply personal pursuit of the truth.

Purchase a copy now on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Bookshop.org. You can also add it to your GoodReads reading list.


What WOW Readers Thought

"Wow, what a rush! Have You Seen Him is everything I want in a thriller: expertly crafted, deliciously layered, and psychologically suspenseful. It’s brimming with tension, a fast-paced thrill ride with short chapters I devoured in one sitting, which is rare for me. The multi-POV characters are distinct and interconnect to reveal plot surprises, and my favorite character is definitely the smart and gutsy Gayle, whose insights rang true. I could follow her around for an entire book!

The story takes place in my old stomping grounds, Los Angeles and Long Beach, and the setting works well to strengthen the storyline. Kimberly Lee’s writing has a cinematic quality, and I could easily see this as a Netflix movie! I wonder who would play David and Alejandro, two of my other favorite characters besides Gayle. Suspense fans will appreciate the surprise ending! The final image made me smile and reflects back on the entire story, widening the lens and adding meaning and complexity to the theme.

I read a lot of thrillers and many are the same in terms of tone, characters, and plot. Kimberly Lee adds a fresh voice and original characters to the genre, and I can’t wait to read what she writes next! Have You Seen Him is a page turner and a good time." ~ Angela M.

"What an exciting thriller! This was just what I was looking for in a book, lately. Great pacing, great characters, and a fantastic setting. The LA setting made me miss California to the core. Kimberly Lee had great pacing throughout and excellent character development.

I loved Gayle, she was my favorite character. And the multiple POV aspect of this book kept my attention! I loved how this gave us different angles of what was going on. This is a book that made me think and left me wanting more." ~ Nicole P.

"After being abandoned by his family at the airport when he was 11, David was adopted by a loving couple and grew up to be an attorney. His entire life is turned upside down, however, when one day he sees a photo of himself in a missing child ad - making him question everything. He is drawn into a web of secrets, medical mysteries, and danger, all while trying to figure out who he truly is. Lee starts the story off with a bang and doesn't let up from there. The story is quick-paced as we meet David, his girlfriend Gayle, his adoptive father, and others, and they all find themselves on a hunt for David and the reason why other (seemingly dangerous) people are searching for him. I was intrigued to find out David's past and was not disappointed by Lee's twists and turns, although I do wish at times that the story would slow down a bit and incorporate more backstory or some more explanation. Everything was wrapped up pretty quickly but also a bit open-ended, which left me wanting more." ~ Angela W. 

"Kimberly Lee takes you to a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The story is honest, relatable and thought provoking. It’s one of those books that you can’t put down. A must read for someone who is currently in a life’s crossroad." ~ Rochie D.

"I received this book as a review copy and will be posting a further review in later on this summer on my website. However, my opinion on the book is very favorable. I did have to stop and put the book down for a bit as the main character was abandoned at 11 in an airport. I retired from the airline industry and traveled often with my two daughters. Losing them in an airport was always something I worried about. So that section was right out of one of my nightmares. The book continues as he comes to terms with what happened then and what is happening now. A good read and at 256 pages, a great weekend read." ~ Judy H.

"In Have You Seen Him, Kimberly Lee's storytelling brings you romance, mystery, suspense and a wake up call to rogue scientific research. The minute I began reading, I was drawn in by her masterful descriptions and dialogue. She also crafts the story in a way that keeps the reader guessing until the very end. I highly recommend this for anyone looking for a great summer read." ~ Linda R.


About the Author, Kimberly Lee

Kimberly Lee, JD is the author of the riveting thriller Have You Seen Him. A versatile writer, editor, and creativity coach, she has a passion for nurturing the imaginative spirit and helping others reveal their own inner wisdom. Kimberly is an Amherst Writers & Artists affiliate and serves on its board. She is a certified facilitator of SoulCollage®, Journal to the Self, and Guided Autobiography, as well as a joyful meditation teacher and Groove Method provider. A teaching artist with Hugo House, Women On Writing, The Writing Salon, and Loft Literary, Kimberly has led events at numerous retreats and conferences. Recent collaborations include Esalen Institute, Omega Institute, Arts & Healing Initiative, the Expressive Therapies Summit, and Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center. Kimberly’s writing has appeared in a variety of publications and anthologies, and she has served on the staffs of Literary Mama, F(r)iction, and Carve Magazines. Kimberly trusts in the magic and mystery of miracles and synchronicity, and believes everyone is creative and has unique gifts to share. Connect with Kimberly on Instagram @klcreatrix or at KimberlyLee.me.


Thriller Giveaway - Have You Seen Him by Kimberly Lee

***** BOOK & GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY *****

Enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the dynamic thriller Have You Seen Him by Kimberly Lee! Fill out the Rafflecopter form for a chance to win. The giveaway ends August 7th at 11:59 CT. We will choose a winner the next day and announce in the widget and also follow up via email. Good luck!

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A Hush at Midnight by Marlene M. Bell: Blog Tour & Tour-Wide Giveaway

Monday, November 04, 2024
A Hust at Midnight by Marlene Bell
Need a little mystery in your life? We're excited to announce the blog tour for A Hush at Midnight by Marlene Bell. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season with this Hallmark-style mystery - a little romance, a beautiful setting, a lovable Corgi, and a tricky puzzle to unravel.

Don’t miss the tour-wide giveaway! Marlene is giving away a Grand Prize Package of A Hush at Midnight, Wildflowers Across America by former First Lady, Ladybird Johnson, a bag of wildflower seed, and a $50 Amazon card. Second and Third prize winners will each receive an autographed copy of A Hush at Midnight. 

About the Book:

Celebrity chef Laura Harris dwells on the horror of finding her mentor’s body in the groundskeeper’s disheveled bed—pillow and bedding half covering her open eyes—purple bruising around her mouth. A grisly snapshot in time revealing the Texas woman’s last moments during her attack. The elderly matriarch from the small town of Stenburg has left the physical world, and Laura is shattered.

She is catapulted headlong into the pursuit of a casual executioner, one bold enough to come and go from the crime scene with ease, dropping bizarre crumb trails designed to mock the deceased. But Laura herself doesn’t go unnoticed. As she digs deeper, she is followed and bombarded by warnings to leave the state.

When the victim’s attorney informs Laura that she’s to inherit the entire Stenburg fortune, the last act of kindness has made Laura the main person of interest in the investigation. Message by message, Laura is methodically taunted by someone so deranged and driven they’ll do whatever it takes to dislodge Laura from Texas – permanently.

Publisher: Ewephoric Publishing (October 1, 2024)
ISBN: 979-8-9863409-6-8
ISBN: 979-8-9863409-5-1 
Print length: 350 pages

You can purchase a copy of the book on Amazon. Be sure to add it to your GoodReads reading list.

About the Author, Marlene M. Bell:

Marlene M. Bell has never met a sheep she didn’t like. As a personal touch for her readers, they often find these wooly creatures visiting her international romantic mysteries and children’s books as characters or subject matter. 

Marlene is an accomplished artist and photographer who takes pride in entertaining fans on multiple levels with her creativity. Marlene’s award-winning Annalisse series boasts Best Mystery honors for all installments including these: IP Best Regional Australia/New Zealand, Global Award Best Mystery, and Chanticleer’s International Mystery and Mayhem shortlist for Copper Waters, the fourth mystery in the series. Her children's picture book, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team!, written primarily for younger kids, is based on true events from the Bell’s East Texas sheep ranch. The simple text and illustrations are a touching tribute of belonging and unconditional love between a little girl and her lamb.

You can find her online at: https://www.marlenembell.com/
X/Twitter: @ewephoric

--Interview by Jodi M. Webb

WOW: Congratulations on the publication of A Hush at Midnight, your first standalone mystery. What inspired you to write A Hush at Midnight?

Marlene: Writing a standalone brought me back to the beginning of my book journey—a reminder how I’d veered too far from my early characterization skills. A little history… 

The idea of an Annalisse standalone book originated in the romance genre fourteen years ago with a draft full of subplots suitable for multiple books. It wasn’t until the second draft and finding a savvy developmental editor, that I understood the entire novel required a severe restructuring and its many subplots made into separate installments for a book series. I had too many things going on in the story confusing the main plot. The genre too, needed direction. Sticking to one focus instead of thriller, mystery, and romance all rolled into one. What began as a single romantic novel, took eight long years to materialize as Stolen Obsession, the first book in the Annalisse series. I settled on Romantic Suspense as the main genre for the saga.

Research was the main task. How to write fiction in a way that readers would enjoy. It took a year of bootcamp classes and purchasing how-to books on what to expect for each genre before I could get back to finishing that first novel. 

WOW: Sounds like quite the journey for your first book. So what made you put aside your series for A Hush at Midnight?

Marlene: By the time reviews began to trickle in with Copper Waters, the fourth book in my series, it exposed a weakness I’d developed unknowingly. Readers were noticing a complacency with details in familiar characters, so I created a challenge for myself to fix the problem. To write a single book unrelated to the series.

A Hush at Midnight was the mechanism to hone skills I had temporarily misplaced. Writing a standalone brought me back to the basics. A place where I could create different character quirks and circumstances in a locale unrelated to the Northeastern US and outside the country like the Annalisse series. I chose to write A Hush at Midnight in the state of Texas, where we reside.

WOW: What an amazing way to improve your writing! In addition to Texas, you’ve had books set in spots around the world. Are these all places you’ve lived or visited? 

Marlene: The areas I’ve written about, (with the exception of Texas and California,) are places I’d like to visit from my giant bucket list. The method used for researching and writing about other states and international countries always include coffee table and travel books for each location. Comparing notes and verifying the author’s information also plays a part. Photographers who have actually been to areas I plan to write about in each novel have given me the tools to offer accurate mind’s eye visuals and narrative to my books.

I decided long ago not to use general internet searches for locale information to keep my stories as accurate as possible. The internet is a maze and mixture of ideas and fact. A good example of a mine field is Wikipedia. I no longer use the tool because it is a collection of opinion and information from many perspectives. 

WOW: You contact so many people before you write word one. What about when your manuscript is complete, do you have beta readers or editors to help you refine your manuscripts?

Marlene: My first novel included tons of beta readers. Unfortunately, everyone held a different opinion regarding leading men and female protagonists. Too many bakers can spoil the dessert, I quickly found out. Between my beta readers and what literary agents were saying about my work in critique sessions, I endlessly changed my manuscript to suit comments—and made myself miserable. Professional editors, on the other hand, are vital to publishing a clean and enjoyable product.

There were a few trials with editors in the early books because every author’s style requires the right touch. Editor styles vary a great deal. My short and punchy style had suffered under the first copyeditor I chose from ten other editing samples. My already shortened prose became a jerky mess of stilted dialog and missing action between characters, and I never saw it, content to allow her vision for the story. All manuscript changes were made to her liking because I trusted her expertise and didn’t understand how to work with an editor. In 2022, I addressed areas in Stolen Obsession to smooth out the prose, vowing never again to allow my work to become someone else’s vision.   

Today, I hire many editors. A developmental-type from a literary agent I met at a writer’s retreat, various copyeditors depending upon the storyline, and proofreaders—at least two passes by different people. Hiring editors with experience in the genre is expensive, but worth every dollar. Oh, and I love my publicist, too! Writing for me is a team effort.

WOW: So many times writers are portrayed as locked away toiling alone on their manuscript. I love your idea that writing is a team effort. Your writing includes a suspense series, cozy mystery standalone, children’s picture book and memoir. Do you enjoy the challenge of trying new genres? 

Marlene: I do love genre hopping. 

I’m thankful to be blessed with natural abilities, but the written word has not come easy for me. Drawing, painting, general art projects, and sheep photography are as normal as breathing. Writing novels is the hardest task I’ve ever undertaken. Reader experiences are subjective based on an individual’s likes and dislikes. Most writers have no idea there are 8,200 new books published every day! The odds of being seen in the sea of authors takes time to grow and develop. With each new release, it’s my job to improve the entertainment value of my work and gain visibility in a saturated market. 

Art and photography are visual and much more forgiving to the creator. It wasn’t until our 4H club parents asked me to write a book on how to raise sheep, that becoming an author entered into the scheme of things. That single exercise has led me to the world of writing mysteries and the occasional children’s book. If the 4H club hadn’t asked me to write the little sheep book/journal, I doubt that I’d be in the publishing world beyond our sheep website. Sometimes events happen for a reason!

WOW: And it’s turned out wonderfully for you. So, what’s up next? 

Marlene: A Hush at Midnight gave me the break from the Annalisse series I needed and the opportunity to take my own refresher course on writing fiction and characterization. The fifth book in the Annalisse series has begun in outline form and I’m pondering another children’s book featuring our Horned Dorset ewe, Harley. Much farther down the road…

It might be time for the Annalisse series to turn more “thrilleresque” in the next installment. Readers are flocking to thrillers these days. Perhaps my extensive research on serial killers will come in handy for the new book!

WOW: On one hand a children’s book about a sheep named Harley. On the other hand a thriller that makes use of your research of serial killers.  Marlene, no one could ever call you predictable.

A Hust at Midnight by Marlene M. Bell Blog Tour

--Blog Tour Calendar

November 4th @ The Muffin
Join WOW as we celebrate the launch of Marlene Bell's blog tour of A Hush at Midnight. Read an interview with the author and enter to win a copy of the book

November 5th @ Boys' Mom Reads
Author Marlene Bell shares the beautiful blooms of Texas, several which appear in her latest mystery A Hush at Midnight.

November 6th @ Journalling Joy
Author Marlene Bell is sharing a guest post with her thoughts on being an independent author.

November 7th @ Book Reviews from an Avid Reader
A Hush at Midnight: come for the review, stay for the giveaway!

November 8th @ Michelle Cornish
Don't miss today's review of the Texas mystery A Hush at Midnight.

November 9th @ Silver's Reviews
Read an interview with Marlene Bell's latest sleuth. Plus, a chance to win books and prizes in A Hush at Midnight giveaway.

November 11th @ Reading Is My Remedy
Have fun with a taste of Texas compliments of author Marlene Bell

November 12th @ Author Anthony Avina
Need a helping hand? Marlene Bell shares her advice for new writers.

November 13th @ Finished Pages
Have you ever wondered about the challenges of writing a mystery series? Author Marlene Bell writes about her experience writing the Annalisse series.

November 14th @ Knotty Needle
Searching for a new mystery? Read Judy's review of A Hush at Midnight by Marlene Bell.

November 16th @ Boots, Shoes and Fashion
Learn more about Marlene Bell in today's interview.

November 18th @  Life According to Jamie
Learn what Jamie thinks of the mystery A Hush at Midnight.

November 18th @ Lit World Reviews
Learn author Marlene Bell's tips on Building an Advanced Reader Team and read a review of her latest mystery: A Hush at Midnight.

November 20th @ Create Write Now
Writing journeys are often surprising. Marlene Bell traces her journey with From Mail Order Entrepreneur to Published Author.

November 21st @ Words by Webb
Jodi shares her thoughts on Marlene Bell's latest book: A Hush at Midnight.

November 22nd @ A Storybook World
Forget about staying in your lane. Author Marlene Bell tells the advantages of writing in multiple genres.

November 25th @ Chapter Break
Learn more about mystery author Marlene Bell and her latest book A Hush at Midnight.

November 26th @ What Is That Book About
Enter to win Marlene Bell's newest mystery: A Hush at Midnight.

November 29th @ Word Magic
Need some Thanksgiving fun? Relax with a good book: A Hush at Midnight by Marlene Bell.

November 30th @ A Wonderful World of Words
The spotlight's on A Hush at Midnight with author Marlene Bell posting Tales from her Sheep Ranch

December 3rd @ Writer Advice
Look behind the curtain at an author's life with mystery writer Marlene Bell.

December 5th @ Some Thoughts - Everything Creativity
Kaecey will be interviewing Marlene Bell, author of the cozy mystery A Hush at Midnight.

December 8th @ Some Thoughts - Everything Creativity
Kaecey will be reviewing A Hush at Midnight.

A Hush at Midnight Cozy Mystery and $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

***** COZY MYSTERY & GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY *****

Enter for a chance to win a copy of A Hush at Midnight by Marlene M. Bell and more! Don’t miss the tour-wide giveaway! 

The Grand Prize Package includes and autographed copy of A Hush at Midnight, Wildflowers Across America by former First Lady, Ladybird Johnson, a bag of wildflower seed and a $50 Amazon card. Two more winners will win a copy of the book. The giveaway ends December 15 at 11:59 pm CT. We will draw a winner the next day via Rafflecopter and follow up via email. Good luck!

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All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley: Blog Tour & Giveaway

Monday, August 12, 2024
All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley
We're excited to announce the launch of the blog tour for All Money Ain't Good Money, the first book in Tracey Lampley's Jinx Curry mystery series. Join us as we meet the author through an interview and give away a copy to one lucky reader.

About the Book

Jinx Curry is a single mom who spends her days spying on cheating wives and husbands, but she aches for more importance. When her boss, Capricorn Hayes, finally assigns Jinx a missing persons case involving a congressman's missing granddaughter, Jinx jumps at the chance. Not only to solve it, but to earn the fifty-thousand-dollar bonus that would pay her bills, and get a menacing creditor off her back.

But the investigation proves more dangerous and costly than Jinx believes. After an unknown individual in a black Corvette nearly runs Jinx down and begins stalking her, Jinx has to sacrifice her relationship with her daughter by sending Arielle to live with her father. Can Jinx find the congressman's granddaughter while surviving her stalker? Or will this job be her last?

Publisher: Tralam Publishing Company 
AISN: B0CW1DW3SX
Print Length: 282 pages

You can purchase a copy of the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. 
Be sure to add it to your GoodReads reading list.

About the Author, Tracey Lampley

When she is not writing, Tracey Lampley loves attending and watching sporting events such as WNBA, NBA, college football and NFL football. Currently Tracey is completing her MA in Creative Writing at Southern New Hampshire University. She already holds an MS in Publishing from Pace University and a BA in English/Technical & Scientific Communication from Miami University of Ohio. She resides in the metro Atlanta, Georgia area with her pooch Neo and near her daughter Asia.

You can find her online at:

Twitter/X: @bookmistress1
Instagram: tralam4156

--Interview by Jodi Webb

WOW: Congratulations on All Money Ain’t Good Money! Your first books were novellas. Did you find it challenging to move to a book that was double the length? 

Tracey: I absolutely found it challenging. My greatest challenge is patience! I write furiously, and I’m anxious to get to the finish line. Knowing that traditional mysteries clock in at 70,000 words or more terrified me because I wasn’t sure I had that much story in me. However, I started fleshing out my characters, and more material/story emerged. 

WOW: Your characters have such rich back stories, it’s almost like we’re dropping in for Book 2 of the series. Did you develop detailed backgrounds for the characters before you started writing or did, they just evolve as you wrote? 

Tracey: From the beginning, I knew this would be a series. So, the backstories evolved as I wrote, and I had fun writing those stories!

WOW: Your novel is set in your town of Atlanta. Is it your hometown?

Tracey:  I was born and raised in Hamilton, Ohio. I just flew back there to attend my class reunion on June 15th. I raised my daughter in Forest Park, which is a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio. I relocated in the metro Atlanta area in May of 2013. I love the weather. I don’t miss the snowy winters of Ohio! None of the buildings or businesses in my book are real. However, the neighborhoods are real. 

WOW: Not only are you busy promoting All Money Ain't Good Money but you're also juggling studying for your MA in Creative Writing at Southern New Hampshire University. Can you tell us one of the most important things you’ve learned in the program? 

Tracey: The most important thing I learned in the program is writing with sensory detail in mind. In every scene I try and include at least three of the five senses to ground the reader into the scene. I also took a class on setting. I learned how to weave setting into the prose instead of listing items. Well, I guess that’s two important things I learned in the program. 

WOW: Thanks, I think those are two things we can all be more aware of in our writing. So, have you always been a writer? Tell us about the moment when you said to yourself, “I’m a writer.” 

Tracey: Since I was a kid, I’ve always written stories. I remember writing about a young girl saving her family from a house fire. I punched three holes into five sheets of paper and bound it with my red hair ribbon. My uncle bought it for a nickel. To this day, he swears he paid a quarter for it. I told my Uncle Dale he was cheap then, and he’s even cheaper now! But, after I finished All Money Ain’t Good Money, I told myself: “I’m a bestselling author!”

WOW: I love your self-confidence! And I'm sure you'll earn more than a nickel this time. So, what’s up next? Book 2 of the Jinx Curry mystery series? (BTW, great character name!) 

Tracey: Yes! I just attended the Black Writers Weekend here in Atlanta on August 1-4 and now will begin outlining the next Jinx Curry book. My paternal grandmother’s maiden name was Curry. That’s where I got the last name. I paid homage to her. 

WOW: What a wonderful way to include your family in your book. Looking forward to more adventures with Jinx.

All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley Blog Tour

--Blog Tour Calendar

August 12th @ The Muffin
Join us as we celebrate the launch of Tracey Lampley's novel All Money Ain't Good Money. Read an interview with the author and enter to win a copy of her book.

August 14th @ Words by Webb
Stop by for today's review of All Money Ain't Good Money - a Jinx Curry Mystery.

August 16th @ My Beauty My Books
Want a fun read for the weekend? Check out the spotlight on All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley.

August 17th @ Writer Advice
Novelist Tracey Lampley shares her thoughts on the value of planting a red herring.

August 19 @  Lisa Haselton’s Reviews and Interviews
Let's take a peek at the life of an author with today's interview of Tracey Lampley.

August 21st @ Chapter Break
Tracey Lampley, who writes about private investigator Jinx Curry, posts about why we all love a flawed protagonist.

August 22nd @ Knotty Needle
The Knotty Needle will be reviewing All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley.

August 22nd @ Book Room Reviews
Stop by for a guest post on the MA in Creative Writing program by Tracey Lampley, author of All Money Ain't Good Money.

August 24th @  Author Anthony Avina
Learn how Tracey Lampley made the Leap from Novella to Novel in today's guest post plus a review of All Money Ain't Good Money by Anthony Avina.

August 28th @ Create Write Now
In today's spotlight, learn more about the first Jinx Curry mystery: All Money Ain't Good Money.

August 29th @ Choices
Tracey Lampley, author of All Money Ain't Good Money, is telling us the six authors she'd like to invite for a dinner party in today's guest post.

August 31st @ A Wonderful World of Words
Novelist Tracey Lampley writes about what her life was like before she began writing today at Wonderful World of Words.

September 3rd @ StoreyBook Reviews
Drop by for a review of All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley.

September 4th @  Author Anthony Avina
Enjoy Anthony Avina's review of All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley.

September 5 @ Word Magic
Tracey Lampley, author of All Money Ain't Good Money, is writing about life with her canine buddy Neo.

September 6th @ A Story Book World
Looking for a new novel? Today's spotlight is on All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley.

September 7 @ Boys' Mom Reads!
Tracey Lampley's All Money Ain't Good Money is reviewed today by Karen of Boys' Mom Reads.

September 9th @ Nikki's Book Reviews
Along with a review of All Money Ain't Good Money, author Tracey Lampley will be posting about what she likes best about Live Sports Events. 

September 12th @ Reading Is My Remedy
Struggle with what your characters should say? Author Tracey Lampley's guest post is about writing realistic dialogue. They'll also be a review of her novel All Money Ain't Good Money.

September 14th @ That's So Nitra
Learn the difference between Macro editing and Micro editing with the help of Tracey Lampley.

September 15th @ Boots, Shoes and Fashion
In today's interview, learn more about Tracey Lampley, author of the first book in the Jinx Curry mystery series: All Money Ain't Good Money.

***** BOOK GIVEAWAY *****

Enter to win a print copy of  All Money Ain't Good Money by Tracey Lampley! Fill out the Rafflecopter form below for a chance to win. The giveaway ends August 25 at 11:59 pm CT. We will randomly draw a winner the next day via Rafflecopter and follow up via email. Good luck!

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Having Fun While Finding My Voice

Wednesday, March 20, 2024



My first “grown-up” book was And Then There Were None, found on my cousin’s dresser during a holiday visit when I was about 11. I was instantly captivated by a world and people so different from my small town Pennsylvania life. The murders were fun too! I quickly gobbled up every Agatha Christie book in my local library and I’m sure this led to my love of the genre.

Although I’ve read scores of murder mysteries, I’ve never written one. Some ideas bounce around in my head and my poor husband has become accustomed to me whispering, “This would be a great place for a murder” in random places.

This Friday I officially take the plunge into mystery writing. Well, maybe not a plunge. More like wading into the shallow end. I recently learned about a mystery writing contest with a hook. You only have 48 hours to write your story. I’m nervous about both the time limit and not knowing exactly what I’ll be writing but this Friday at 5 pm EST I’ll be at Toasted Cheese Literary Journal when they announce the theme, word count and other details for the Mollie Savage Memorial Writing Contest.

For years I worked at a very reliable marketing job where I stifled my voice in favor of the voice of the advertisers. Now, as a freelancer I’m left wondering what my voice is. So I’m grabbing every opportunity I can find as I stretch my skills and learn what I’m capable of doing. Can I write a murder mystery? Well, this is a great opportunity to give it a try.

Do you want to stretch your writing skills? Do you need a short break from your WIP? Do you love the mystery genre but aren’t ready to commit to a book length project? Join me on Friday! I'll share my process on my blog and I hope to learn how you're doing too.

As an added bonus, there’s also a Science Fiction/Fantasy 48 hour contest in September.


Jodi M. Webb writes from her home in the Pennsylvania mountains. After a decade hiatus from writing, she is back with bylines in Tea Journey, Mental Floss and a WIP about her plant obsession. She's also a blog tour manager for WOW-Women on Writing. Get to know her on Instagram or Facebook.


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