Serious Wednesday: Do You Enjoy MYSTERIES?

 Who Has Read One of the

Appleton, West Virginia Romantic Mystery books?

* Sabotaged Christmas 

* Knight in Shining Apron

* Undiscovered Treasures

* Toby's Troubles

AND now...

The Golden Touch

Want to know more about my books?

Join me at:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/183457429657732

* Book Cover Reveal

* Want to win a copy of The Golden Touch?

* Want to get the updated news about what's happening this month?

Use this link:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/183457429657732

STAY TUNED!

Serious Wednesday: Clues

There are clues, then there are clues. 

We're talking clues today for the mystery writer. 

Did you know there are different types of clues? 

Here's some of them:

• Physical clues. These can range from fingerprints to DNA evidence. This is a scientific process. Think Sherlock Holmes or forensic or pathologists.

• Verbal clues. What is said or not said. What would only the suspect say or not say, have known? Decoding verbal clues is a psychological/sociological process similar to how Miss Marple, Poirot, or private detectives would use it.

• Thematic clues. Pointers from the experience of reading, such as someone who dresses all in black (the villain, of course), a stormy night that signals danger, a butler who is either invisible (always unnoticed), guilty or innocent (who knows??)--all simply because he's the butler. 

While the first two types of clues will influence the detective, all three will affect the reader's experience of the story.

Clues enlighten readers and clues confuse them.

Hopefully more later!

Serious Wednesday: Let's Move on to Mysteries

 What is a mystery?

What questions are asked when presented

with something we don't understand?

Who is breaking the windows?

Why does the chicken cross the road?

Who set the fire?

What are the characteristics of a mystery?

* suspects

* motives

* clues

* hidden evidence

* details that seem unimportant

* inference gaps that don't tell the whole story

Do you love a good mystery?

More later...

Serious Wednesday: Digging Into Narrative Suspense

If you want to get technical about suspense, then almost any literary suspense book could be called "narrative" as long as the suspense builds and ends at the closing of the book. Narrative suspense means:

Pose a problem or question at the beginning of a book, then...

follow throughout the book's plot process with increasing suspense 

and wrap it up at the end.

AND, if it's well written, then your readers will NOT be able to put the book down. With that said, your ending MUST be awesome!

Keep the suspense/clues coming throughout the book that gives the reader a sense of whatever resolution you are hinting at. There's a delicate balance in too much and not enough. Don't overwhelm, but definitely tease and increase the pressure of what might happen, what is going to happen. You don't want the reader to get angry or disappointed, so much so that their impatience with the plot turns to disappointment and a closing of the book.

Another idea to keep the suspense high is to have two suspense arcs.
In other words, you could have one that is:

• What is going to happen to Bill? 
• The second one could be:  What's going on with Nancy?

Example:

What is going to happen to Bill?  

This suspense will carry throughout the book, 

a continual build of pressure. Whereas,

What's going on with Nancy? 

The suspense with this one is more like spurts of suspense throughout the book. 

The reader knows there are interesting bits of information/suspense thrown into her scene. 

Things that make the reader question why she's doing what she's doing, 

why she shows up at odd times, 

why she says the crazy things she says. 

Two different suspense arcs are going on with the second one playing/building on the first one yet separate. 

Happy writing!

Serious Wednesdays: Did You Know...

...There are five types of suspense?

• Narrative, which is a long-term suspense. Any literary suspense might be described as "narrative" and refers to tension that builds throughout the entire story.
• Short-term suspense:  a moment or brief scene that provokes a powerful reaction from the reader.
• Mysterious suspense:  In a suspense, the reader knows what's going to happen, but adding a little mystery to a suspense means that in brief scenes the reader may not know completely what's going to happen. They will eventually, but by adding this bit of mystery, it adds to suspense, deepening it and creating an intense emotion.
• Horrific suspense:  by adding a touch of horror into a suspense, readers know something terrible is going to happen but do not know the exact nature of it. (Like waiting for a jump scare in a movie). This is used most commonly in horror and at times, in thriller novels.
• Romantic/Comedic suspense:  Simply: romance, explosions, and mayhem with humor mixed in.

Many times when I'm writing suspense, I use this last one. Romance, comedy, explosions, mayhem, humor and sometimes a little whimsey. It's my favorite, but I also enjoy adding a touch of mystery at times and even a bit (tiny) of horror. Or at least, strong suspense. 

If you were writing a suspense, which would you be most inclined to use?

Happy writing!

Angel's Serenade by Linda Weaver Clark: Visiting!

It's a pleasure to welcome Linda to my blog again! She's such a talented author, with interesting and entrancing plots that will keep you reading...just one more page!!

Read on to find out about her newest book:

Angel’s Serenade is a Historical Romance with a mystery to solve. This story is set in 1836 in the United States. You will learn about the infamous River Pirates, the remedies for illnesses of that time period, the effects that music has on a person, and you will fall in love all over again.

Emmeline Scott is raising her sister’s two children and is surprised when she finds out the new doctor in town is helping her nephew adapt to his surroundings. As Emmeline gets to know the charming doctor, they become intrigued by her neighbor’s mysterious behavior. Will they discover his secret? And who is the leader of the River Pirates who is causing so much havoc?

“This book, combining children, doctors and music 

with a little bit of a mysterious pirate gang, 

is a lovely way to relax and enjoy positivity! 

Ms. Clarke has a gift for writing homey dialogue, 

and a deep understanding of children’s needs and feelings – 

all combined into a developing love story in the not-so-long-ago past. 

All of this results in an enjoyable read.” –Author Sherrill Cannon

When Emmeline is given the responsibility of raising her sister’s children, she finds out that it is not as easy as she thought. The children have a difficult time adapting to their new surroundings. Would giving them an education and all her love be enough? After her nephew meets the good doctor, Emmeline wonders why Sam is so drawn to him? When Doctor Lucas Golden finds out that he’s being picked on at school, he wants to help young Sam but his advice is unusual and Emmeline is not happy about his interference.

“Clarke has created a sweet romance that will warm the heart, 

and it’s wrapped up in fascinating yesteryear details of courting, 

medical practice and river pirates. I highly recommend the book to those 

who enjoy sweet romance with a bit of mystery.” –Author Gail Pallotta

Emmeline Scott is an accomplished pianist and teaches piano to young students. Every day at five o’clock, after her last student is gone, she sits down at the piano and plays her favorite pieces. Unbeknown to Emmeline, the new doctor across the street sits outside on his porch and listens to her play. Lucas closes his practice at 5:00 and looks forward to being serenaded. It relaxes him after a long day at work. They haven’t been introduced, but he has dubbed her “Angel Lady” because of her music.

How about the mystery surrounding this story? Emmeline is worried about her neighbor. Why is Mr. Miller acting suspicious and meeting with disagreeable men in private? Is her neighbor harboring a secret, which may prevent him from winning the election? Is it possible that Emmeline can help or is it best to not get involved?

The first book in the Willow Valley Historical Romances is One Last Dance. In this story, Felicity Brooks is an artist, but her career is cut short when her father passes away. When Felicity meets their new neighbor, a fine-looking bachelor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. But that is not all. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom…a precious treasure that her father had discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn.

“One Last Dance is a historical romance with a mystery to add to the tale. 

Felicity has always been a strong and independent woman. 

Amongst mystery, loss, paintings, and a career, 

she is going to have to decide if love has a place in her heart.” --Author Anna Del C Dye

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

My Book Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

Angel’s Serenade is available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Angels-Serenade-Willow-Historical-Romance-ebook/dp/B07RV79LDN

One Last Dance is available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Willow-Valley-Historical-Romance-ebook/dp/B07GVNWSP9

Here is a Video link for One Last Dance:

https://vimeo.com/310912310

About the Author:

Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red hills of southern Utah. She is the author of Historical Romance, Mystery Suspense, Cozy Mysteries, Swashbuckling/Adventure Romance, a Children’s Book, and Nonfiction. Linda teaches a class about writing your family history that is free to the public at the Family Search Center in Southern Utah. She is also a missionary at the Family Search Center where she helps people find their ancestors so they can learn about their heritage.






Don't miss out on reading this book!
Happy reading!

Serious Wednesday: One Last Dance by Linda Weaver Clarke

Is It Possible To Only Have One Last Dance?

One Last Dance will keep you guessing until the end of the book. It is a Historical Romance with a mystery to be solved. This story is set in 1835 in the United States. You will learn the art of watercolor, dance the Boston Waltz, and fall in love all over again.

Felicity Brooks is a talented artist but her career is cut short when her father passes away. Realizing the importance of family, she travels home to care for her mother. When Felicity meets their new neighbor, a fine-looking bachelor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. But that is not all. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom…a precious treasure that her father discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn. What could they be after that is so valuable?

“One thing that always keeps me reading this author’s books is her characters,” wrote Author Katrina Hart. “They are engaging, funny and passionate. I especially liked Mr. Adams’ character as he was both witty and charming with an air of mystery about him. I was impressed by Felicity’s character. She was a strong woman who had seen some of the world, only to end up back home where everything feels different. I liked the quirky bond between Mr. Adams and Felicity. He has her pegged from the start and from the moment they meet you can tell at some point sparks will fly, and they will challenge each other’s perspectives on the problem at hand, which made this book rather gripping. One Last Dance kept me guessing until the end and left me wanting to read this book all over again. If you like Historical Romance with a mysterious touch and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read.”

When Felicity finds out that someone is trying to steal a valuable treasure, the adventure begins. With the help of her neighbor, Nicholas Adams, they search for evidence. Who is breaking into her home? What are they after? When they discover some homeless boys, Nicholas wonders whether they are involved. While Nicholas and Felicity search for clues, they attend a county fair, enter a horse race, and toss a piece of cow dung in a contest.

“One Last Dance is a historical romance with a mystery to add to the tale. Felicity has always been a strong and independent woman. Amongst mystery, loss, paintings, and a career, she is going to have to decide if love has a place in her heart.” --Author Anna Del C Dye

https://youtu.be/LcIqapyZbno

About Author: 

Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red hills of southern Utah. Linda is the author of 24 books. She has written in several different genres, which include: historical romances, romantic cozy mysteries, a mystery suspense series, children’s book, and non-fiction. All her books are family friendly. To learn more, visit www.lindaweaverclarke.com.

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

Linda’s Books: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Willow-Valley-Historical-Romance-ebook/dp/B07GVNWSP9

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/one-last-dance-linda-weaver-clarke/1129427291

Be sure to check out her newest book! 

HAPPY READING! 

Please Welcome Carol Heilman and her new Mystery: Bets on Murder

If you know me at all, you know I LOVE mysteries and suspense (with a touch of humor and romance!). So it is with real pleasure that I welcome Carol Heilman back to my blog today. Do check out her books! I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Who is Agnes?

Agnes Hopper Shakes Up Sweetbriar began as a short story that ended when the seventy-plus widow ran away from her retirement home. When the curtain dropped on the final scene, I squirreled the story away. Months later, when I pulled it out and reread it, doubts about the conclusion gnawed at my writer’s gut. Would a feisty, headstrong, outspoken woman such as Agnes escape into the night and never be heard from again? “What if” questions began popping into my mind and would not leave me alone

And so I began a long discussion with Agnes. What if you bumped into an old friend who lived there and then you stayed around long enough to make some new ones? What if you began to realize the administrator of the home ran a tight ship for sinister reasons? Would you care enough to stick around? To become a voice for those who were afraid to speak up?

The novel evolved from there. Along the way, Agnes and I fell in love with some quirky characters. Writing Agnes’ story has been an exciting journey. Her second book, Agnes Hopper Bets On Murder, has a release date of April 15^th. We are conspiring on her next adventures in book three.

I dearly love the elderly, and that’s a good thing because now I am one. Agnes has a spunky spirit much like my mother’s and the humor often comes from my daddy, who was an Appalachian coal miner.

ABOUT CAROL:

Carol Heilman, a coal miner's daughter, married her high school sweetheart, a farmer's son. She began writing family stories, especially about her dad's Appalachian humor, for newspapers and magazines. One day her mother said, "We don't have any secrets any more!"

Carol's book series, Agnes Hopper Shakes Up Sweetbriar and Agnes Hopper Bets on Murder, was inspired by her mother's spunky spirit and her dad's humor.

She has recently moved, along with her husband of fifty-plus years, from the mountains of NC to Charleston, SC. They love to play cards, go antiquing, hike, and visit grandsons on the east and west coasts

Check out her Social Media Links here:

Website: www.carolheilman.com

Author Page: amazon.com/author/carolheilman

Facebook www.facebook.com/carolgheilman

Twitter: twitter.com/CarolHeilman

Rebels, Adventure and Mystery by Author Linda Weaver Clarke

I'm tickled to host Linda on my blog today, not only because of her fun and interesting books, but also because she's a wonderful friend who's caring and helpful to other authors! She's sharing today about her series, why she wrote the books and her love of that period. Welcome, Linda!

Historical Romance: 

Stories of Rebels,

Adventure, and Mystery

My favorite time period is historical because it’s during a time when men defended a lady’s honor and treated women with respect. The women, on the other hand, were not pansies by any means. I love strong women characters who fight for what they believe.

The Rebel Series is a Historical Mystery/Adventure Romance set in the 1700s. I love historical romance and I love mysteries. Many people have asked me why I wrote a story about rebels. Simple! I love a rogue who fights for justice and for the people.

It was a bunch of rebels who fought for our freedom here in America. They wanted to be free from the dictatorship and tyranny of a king. Liberty is something that I cherish. So I decided to write about a small country that struggles to be free.

My favorite genre to write is a mixture of romance, mystery, and adventure. I also love a romance where the man and woman know they are meant for one another, even though there are trials along the way. Instead of drama between a couple, I prefer having suspense in the main plot, instead.

What is The Rebels Series about?

In The Rebels of Cordovia, a group of men and women find themselves fighting for their rights, for freedom of speech, and equality. In the small country of Cordovia, groups of rebels begin springing up, but its Robin’s Rebels who get the attention of the king.

In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn’t realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

https://youtu.be/-Nd2vqNYqSA

In book 2, The Highwayman of Cordovia, the people enjoy their new-found liberty, but all is not well. A group of powerful men plan to take over the small country and replace the leader with a king. With the help of a bold highwayman and a pastor’s daughter, they try to save their country from being taken over by a power-hungry leader. As they strive to stop the Kingmen and thwart their plans, Christine finds herself falling in love with Austin Knight. The only problem with their relationship is that she thinks he is her knight in shining armor instead of a highwayman. If she finds out his trade, what will her reaction be? As a pastor’s daughter, will love override her values?

https://youtu.be/UtHY-DPjfFE

In book 3, The Fox of Cordovia, a sinister plot has just been uncovered and its up to a former patriot and a young nurse to discover who is behind it. Caroline is engaged to the future mayor of Laketown, a man of influence and greatly respected. But all that changes when she overhears a conspiracy behind closed doors. After being discovered, she runs for her life. Caroline needs to report her findings, but whom can she trust? When she asks Jesse Conover for help, the adventure begins.

https://youtu.be/mCgwRF5nzQ8

How about the reviews for this series?

When I sent The Rebels of Cordovia to Sunnie Reviews, she wrote: 

“I so enjoyed this fun book! It has adventure, romance, a little mystery, and action.  

No boring moments here. Placed back in the days of wicked and oppressive kings, 

the rebels work together for the freedoms of the common people.  

Will they succeed against the governing forces? 

The romance is sweet and the action is plenty.”

Author Charissa Stastny reviewed The Highwayman of Cordovia: 

“This sequel to the Rebels of Cordovia takes a pastor’s daughter 

and mixes her in with a rogue highwayman. The results will surprise you in this continued battle 

for freedom and justice. This sweet romance had action and intrigue, 

mysteries to solve, and villains to thwart.”

Inishowen Cailín, from Ireland, wrote about The Fox of Cordovia on her blog: 

“I loved this book. It is full of adventure, drama, intrigue and suspense. 

We've got kidnapping plots, pirate ships, daring rescues and romance. 

The author weaves an exciting tale and a sweet romance together 

in a way that will appeal to all readers.”

To read a sample chapter from each of my books in The Rebel Series, go to: 

•  http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/historicalromance.html 
• and click on the TITLE.
• To purchase a book on the same page, 
• click on the COVER and it will take you directly to Amazon. 
• These books can also be purchased from Barnes and Noble.

Readers, be sure to check out her links! I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Happy Reading!

Karen Robbins has a new Mystery book out!

I'm happy to introduce Karen Robbins and her new book: Pickle Dilly. I think you'll enjoy her writing and the fun and delightful characters that grace her pages! Now, check out the interview with TOMMY MADISON of the Annie Pickels story. Enjoy! 

Oh, and don't forget to click on the "Links to buy"!

Welcome Tommy Madison. I understand you are in the pickle business. What do you do?

I am one of the officers of the newly incorporated Annie Pickels Pickles. I’m actually in charge of production. Mrs. A, that is Mrs. Annie Pickels who is the president and originator of the business, taught me how to can her special dill pickles. I helped her out with some problems she had in making a profit and together along with a couple of others, Arnie Forrester and Elma Thompson, we begun to do pretty well.

That’s not your only job though, is it?

No. I work full time actually for Tinkers Tavern wherever the proprietor, Bill Barker, needs me to help out. He’s a great guy and lets me arrange my hours so that I can help out with the pickle business as well.

This Annie Pickels and you got into a little trouble a while back I hear. Can you tell us anything about that?

It’s not something I’m proud of. I was growing marijuana on a plot of land that Mrs. Pickels rented me. You see I have some physical problems with my legs from an accident when I was much younger. The marijuana gave me some relief from the pain. Annie got in some trouble along with me when she mistook it for marjoram and put it into her pickle recipe. That’s kinda how I got involved with the pickle business. I’m working off some fines Mrs. A paid for me. I’ve also found help with the pain instead of the marijuana—lots of prayer and visits to a pain clinic.

What is the latest on the relationship between Arnie and Annie?

Well, if Elma had her way, they’d be walking down the aisle as soon as she could get Annie into a wedding dress. Annie is a deep thinker and she takes relationships seriously. She was married quite a few years ago to a fellow that she really loved and she’s had a hard time getting over his death. I think Arnie would like to be very special in Annie’s life but that’s for the two of them to work out. They don’t need any pressure from me. They have enough from Elma.

Tell me more about Elma.

Elma is a hoot. Annie made her VP of marketing and she has taken it very seriously. She has grand ideas of making our business international. But she also has the biggest heart of anyone I know. She and Annie have been best friends for many years. They live across the street from each other.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell me about Annie or Arnie or Elma?

Arnie is a great lawyer. He’s only doing it part time now that he’s retired but he certainly has helped us all out a lot. We all suspect that Elma may have a new someone special in her life but I really couldn’t tell you yet for sure. And Annie? Well Annie, in addition to her kindness and grace and love for all of us and her pickle expertise, she makes the greatest cinnamon rolls in the world. Hands down!

How can we get to know more about all these wonderful people?

There are two books by Karen Robbins that tell pretty much the whole story. In A Pickle was the first and now she’s finished the Annie Pickels story in a new book, Pickle Dilly. Here’s the teaser as they say:

Annie Pickels, a widowed pickle entrepreneur, and her best friend Elma are off to London for a little holiday. While in London things are happening back home that threaten to cause the loss of Annie’s farm property. Once again she will rely on Arnie, her friend who is a lawyer but who wants to be so much more in her life, to help her out of trouble.

A trip to Alaska and a meeting with her deceased husband’s family solves some of her problems but there are still questions to be answered. How far will the people who want her property go to get it? And, is there room in her heart for Arnie, the one Elma keeps telling her is the “man of her dreams”?

It’s a dilly of a pickle Annie finds herself in but with friends, family and faith the answers become clear.

Thanks for joining us today. Where are you off to next?

I’m off to Mrs. A’s kitchen to get a cup of coffee and the best cinnamon roll around.

KAREN ROBBINS is a writer, author, and speaker. She and her husband are travel addicts and many of her stories are enriched by their adventures in different parts of the world. She has written six novels, collaborated on two non-fiction books and contributed often to Chicken Soup For The Soul books. She is currently working on a Christmas novella, A Pocketful Of Christmas. While the world is fun to explore, Karen most likes to spend time with her grandchildren. They offer the greatest adventures of all.

Catch up with Karen at her blog, Wandering Writer (www.karenrobbins.com), Twitter (https://twitter.com/writerwandering), Facebook (www.facebook.com/KarenRobbinsAuthor) or Amazon (www.amazon.com/author/karenrobbins)

Links to purchase books:

In A Pickle:

https://www.amazon.com/Pickle-Annie-Pickels-Story-Pickes/dp/1974391868/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Pickle Dilly:

https://www.amazon.com/Pickle-Dilly-Annie-Pickels-Story/dp/1974397092/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

A Warm Welcome to My Author Friend, Cynthia Hickey

I'm thrilled to have Cynthia visiting today. Please be sure to leave a comment and your email addy for a chance to win her book!

How long have you known that you were a writer?  Did you receive a clear “call?” Or have you just loved writing all your life? 
I’ve loved writing since the time I learned to read. Reading became my escape while living in a rural area and soon I was making up stories of my own. In high school, I started my first “book”, a romantic suspense about an evil cult. Who knows, maybe it will see the light of day sometime.


What is the genre you write in?  Would you explain what it is? 
I write cozy mysteries, fun, light-hearted stories of everyday heroines getting in and out of trouble. I also write historical romances, books that take the reader back in history and reveal God’s will on their lives.


How do you spend your writing days?  Do you set goals to reach a certain number of words per day?  Can you give us a general idea of how long it takes you to write a novel? 
I strive to write 3,000 a day, Monday thru Friday. I can usually write a 50,000 word novel in 4-6 weeks, unless life gets in the way.


What is the spiritual message in your latest book?  What can readers expect to get from reading it? 
To stop and listen to God’s plan for your life. Often we rush ahead without waiting. It’s so much easier when we don’t go at things alone.


You recently had another book published.  Would you take this time to describe it to us?  How and where can readers buy your books? 
All my books are listed on my website at www.cynthiahickey.com. My previous book, as is this one, are both books that deal with the Harvey Girls from history. Women who tamed the west by working in the Fred Harvey restaurants and hotels along the Santa Fe Railroad.


Where do you get ideas?  Character names?  Do you find your characters similar to you in any way? 
Most of my characters are as headstrong as I am. We have to make a conscious effort to slow down. I get my ideas everywhere; something I heard, something I read


Do you ever feel like giving up?  Most people don’t understand the stress, the work, and the joy of being a writer.  How tenuous becoming a writer is. Do you care to share how it feels, what discouraging/encouraging times you’ve gone through?  Who’s inspired you the most? 

I can’t imagine giving up. In May 2013, God blessed me by allowing me to quit the day job and write full time. I want to honor that blessing by writing.


Would you explain how you “chose” (or was chosen by) a publisher? Now, that you’re published, can you sit back and relax from the success you’ve experienced? 
Hmmm. No, if anything the work doubles after getting published. You need to get the next book out while editing and/or marketing another one. It’s a lovely roller-coaster ride that I don’t ever want to get off of.


Do you mind telling us some of your likes and dislikes?  Hobbies, interests?  Where would you like to travel if you could?  Etc. 
I enjoy reading, crocheting, designing my own book covers, and putting family photos onto DVD montages and setting them to music. I would love to tour the US and Europe. This is a great big beautiful world we live in and I would like to see as much of it as possible.


Would you give us your blog or webpage so everyone can check it out?   Anything else you’d like to share?  Promotional information?
My website has all 30+ of my books, some print, some ebook and can be found at www.cynthiahickey. Thank you so much for allowing me to visit.

BIO:

Multi-published and Best-Selling author Cynthia Hickey had three cozy mysteries and two novellas published through Barbour Publishing. Her first mystery, Fudge-Laced Felonies, won first place in the inspirational category of the Great Expectations contest in 2007. Her third cozy, Chocolate-Covered Crime, received a four-star review from Romantic Times. All three cozies have been re-released as ebooks through the MacGregor Literary Agency, along with a new cozy series, all of which stay in the top 50 of Amazon’s ebooks for their genre. She has several historical romances releasing in 2013 and 2014 through Harlequin’s Heartsong Presents. She is active on FB, twitter, and Goodreads. She lives in Arizona with her husband, one of their seven children, two dogs and two cats. She has five grandchildren who keep her busy and tell everyone they know that “Nana is a writer”. Visit her website at www.cynthiahickey.com

Folks, be sure to leave your email and a comment for a chance to win Cynthia's book! Thanks for stopping by.

Blessings.

A Fun Interview with some Cheryl Martin Book Characters!

Be sure to leave you email address along with a comment for a chance to win Cheryl's book!

 

Questions and Answers from

Brandon, the boyfriend

So, Brandon, how did you end up involved with The Hawaiian Island Detective Club?

I met Leilani in math class and then discovered that she lived just down the street from me. Leilani got me involved in some mystery thing happening at the music school, but I totally do not like spying and investigating. I’m a surfer guy and I like cars, too, just like Sam. He’s a pretty cool guy. ‘Course Maile and Leilani think Sam’s belching is annoying, but I think it’s pretty cool and wish I had that skill.

So, if you don’t like mysteries, were you able to help Leilani, Maile, Sam and Kimo catch the culprit at all?

(Brandon groans) Yeah, I did volunteer to help Leilani a little, but never again! It ended in disaster.

Hmm . . . that’s not what I heard.
Well, I guess it’s how you look at it. Believe me—I won’t be doing any more snooping or going on any stake-outs again.

(Brandon sighs) ’Course it may not be so easy if I’m hanging out with Leilani. She’s way into this detective stuff.


Oh! So you and Leilani are hanging out, huh?

Uh . . . (Brandon’s face turns bright red) Sometimes we go surfing . . . and maybe get some shave-ice.

You’re new to the island, right?
Yup. Just moved here from Oregon. My mom got totally burned out on all the foul weather there. She wanted lots more sunshine.

I didn’t know they surfed in Oregon.
They do, but you have to wear a wetsuit most of the year. I have a bunch of friends in California so I visited them a lot to ride some great waves and work on my skills.

Thanks for visiting, Brandon, and I hope we’ll hear more from you—maybe even see you involved in another mystery!

Yeah, right! (Brandon waves me off, and I chuckle)

Questions and Answers from

Mr. Edwards, the math teacher

Mr. Edwards, how are you connected with the kids of The Hawaiian Island Detective Club?
I’m a math teacher at the school. Leilani, Maile and Brandon are in my class. Through them I met Sam. And Kimo . . . well, he’s an amazing kid and my daughter, Abby, adores him. She and Kimo are in the same ukulele class. ’Course Kimo is annoyed by her constant attention. (Mr. Edwards chuckles) I think Leilani finds it amusing—kind of payback for all the annoying stuff Kimo does to her.

I hear the kids call you “Mean Mr. Edwards.”

(He laughs and shakes his head) I figure any good teacher has high expectations of his students. But I also try to temper that with encouragement and praise. Leilani sees that “mean” side more often than she’d like.

About Leilani, she’s pretty good at math, huh?

Yes, she is. That’s why my expectations of her are really high. I even invited her to participate in the Math Masters Club, and she’s doing quite well. Can’t wait for the first competition to see her shine. I know Olivia will be very proud of her.

Olivia? Oh, yes! I heard there was something going on between you and Leilani’s mom.

(Mr. Edwards’ cheeks turn red) Olivia is a wonderful woman and she’s done a great job with Leilani and Kimo, especially during this past year after her husband’s death.

How do Leilani and Kimo feel about you and their mom spending time together?
Kimo seems fine. He’s more worried about having Abby hanging around. (Mr. Edwards sighs) Leilani is definitely having a difficult time. She feels I’m trying to replace her dad . . . and that her mom doesn’t love her dad anymore.

That’s a tough thing.

Yeah, but Olivia is amazing. She’s taking her time with our relationship and spending time reassuring Leilani of her dad’s place in her heart forever. No one will ever replace him, but someday someone will add something different and meaningful to her heart.

(I grin) Thanks for visiting, Mr. Edwards. Good luck with all those crazy connections you and Abby have with the Akamai family.

Questions and Answers

from Leilana

So, Leilani, what was it like being an undercover detective at the music school?

I love spying and snooping around, but I wasn’t very happy at all with the whole taking-ukulele-lessons thing. But it was totally fun meeting Brandon in my math class.

So . . . I’m guessing Brandon was your favorite part of solving this mystery?

Uhhh . . . no . . . I mean, Brandon’s cool and all. (Leilani blushes) I needed a new surfing buddy since Kainoa’s so busy with the high school surfing team, and Brandon’s a great surfer.

I’ve heard something about you tossing Brandon aside like a moldy mango. You gonna do that for real?
(Leilani bursts out laughing) No! That’s just something that annoying Carly Rivers says. Brandon’s cool and we both like shave-ice too.



Oh, yes! Did I hear something about a funny incident at the shave-ice shop?

Yeah, well, I was a mess, but at least the slime covered the blotches on my face.

Blotches?
Long story. But I can tell you this—hives are no fun.
Speaking of “no fun,” did I hear something about that “Mean Mr. Edwards” making you participate in Math Masters?
Yeah. It’s actually kinda fun—lots of interesting and challenging math games, but I’m totally scared of the competitions.

And what about your mom and Mr. Edwards?

(Leilani rolls her eyes) Kimo thinks Mr. Edwards is Mom’s boyfriend, but I didn’t think so at first because I couldn’t believe she’d forget about Dad like that. (She sighs) But then Mom explained that there’s lots of love in her heart for Dad, me, Kimo and anyone else who might come into our lives.

Your mom is very wise, Leilani. Thanks for visiting.

Questions and Answers
by Cheryl 

 

What’s happening at the music school?

Someone’s leaving threatening notes on music stands, in cases, on stacks of music and in the bathrooms. Kimo takes ukulele lessons and is very concerned about his teacher, Mrs. Lee, the kids and the music school, so he asks Leilani to join the class to investigate the mystery. She’s not happy since she’s a surfer girl, not a musician. Maile and Sam join her in class which makes the whole thing bearable.

What inspired you to write mysteries for kids and this series?

I was first inspired to write as a child, reading Nancy Drew. I knew at that young age that I would one day write a mystery!

Striving to do what God has placed in front of me motivates me to keep pressing forward. Sharing wholesome mysteries filled with fun, humor, mishaps and unexpected moments for kids to enjoy also motivates me to continue this amazing journey.

I have always loved Hawaii ever since I lived there while attending The University of Hawaii. I combined that with my interest in writing for ages 8-12 years and The Hawaiian Island Detective Club was born!

The three books in this series are entitled Pineapples in Peril, Menehunes Missing, and Ukuleles Undercover.

What advice do you have for new writers?

If you’re goal oriented, try setting a reasonable word count goal that allows for you to get ahead at times and gives you make-up time as well. Also, set aside that time to simply sit down and write—don’t go to any e-mails, facebook pages, etc. It’s all about planting yourself in front of that computer and pounding out the words!

What do you do for fun and relaxation when you’re not writing?

I love to grow veggies, blueberries and raspberries on my deck. I also love to sing, and am part of my church’s drama team—challenging, yet rewarding. I sometimes work-out with my son and do push-ups with the Oregon Duck (the U of O mascot) whenever Oregon scores—and, yes, they’re men’s push-ups! I’m practicing for another great fall of football and push-ups!

Tell us a little about your family:

I have a great husband, three amazing kids and two adorable Persian cats, Nala and Thor.

My oldest son, Ian, has his own home and works for Nautilus. My daughter, Ashley, is married to a wonderful man, Dave. She works for Portland State University and he is a lawyer for a Portland, Oregon firm. They just made me a first-time “Tutu” with the birth of their son, Ewan. My youngest son, Shane, wants to be an artist for a Graphic Novel company. In between working at a movie theater, he’s busy working on projects—not unlike being an author!

How can your readers connect with you?

My website address is www.cheryllinnmartin.com
I also have a blog all about Hawaii at www.lifeinflip-flops.blogspot.com

You can also connect with me on my facebook author page at www.facebook.com/authorcheryllinnmartin

Twitter at http://twitter.com/clinnmartin

E-mail me at cheryllinnmartin@yahoo.com





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Blessings