Blog Archives
Your Problems Solved: Cold Clues
Your Problems Solved: Cold Clues hooked me right from the first scene, where retired librarian Dory Frame steps onto her porch and finds a troubled young woman asking for help. That moment kicks off a mystery rooted in a small California town in 1955, full of heat, old secrets, sharp characters, and the quiet grit of a woman who never expected to become a sleuth. The story winds through murder, corruption, community ties, and one woman’s stubborn insistence on truth. It moves with a gentle rhythm that feels like a stroll through a neighborhood, then tightens when things turn dark. I found myself caring far more than I expected to.
As I read, I kept smiling at the voice of Dory. She is steady and thoughtful, yet she surprises you with a streak of bravery that sneaks up on you. The writing made me feel like I was sitting beside her at the kitchen table, sipping iced tea while she sorted through clues and her own memories. Author Lennette Horton paints small-town life with such affection that even the gossip feels warm. There were moments that hit harder, though, like the quiet grief wrapped around Dory’s widowhood or the unease of a veteran struggling with trauma. Those scenes caught in my chest. They added weight to a book that could have stayed light but chose something richer.
I also appreciated the layers tucked inside the plot. What starts as a simple request from a desperate daughter slowly becomes a tangle of civic corruption, hidden relationships, and buried ledgers. Horton balances this with soft humor and everyday detail. One moment I was caught in the tension of a new clue, and the next I was listening to neighbors talk tomatoes and grandbabies. Oddly enough, that blend worked. It grounded the danger in something very real. I felt like I knew these people. I wanted them safe. I wanted justice to land where it should.
By the final pages, I closed the book feeling satisfied. This story would be wonderful for readers who love cozy mysteries with heart, fans of historical settings, and anyone who enjoys a heroine who solves problems with brains, kindness, and a little stubbornness. If you like mysteries that feel authentic rather than flashy, this one is a great pick. I’m looking forward to reading more of Dory’s adventures.
Pages: 342 | ASIN : B0FNTBNHY3
Stupid Gravity
Stupid Gravity follows Alexandra Farone, a sharp but battered software engineer who has slipped all the way down to the street level. She is broke, homeless, newly convicted, and trying to survive probation while living out of an aging Mustang and clinging to the last scraps of her old identity. When she spots a little girl who might be in danger, her life tilts again, pulling her into a messy world of shelters, addicts, low-wage jobs, and small-time criminals. The book blends tension, grit, and surprising humor as Alex reinvents herself as Liliane and stumbles into a mystery that keeps pulling her deeper. The story never sits still, and the tone mixes cynicism with heart in a way that sneaks up on you.
The writing has this blunt, unvarnished rhythm that feels like someone is talking to you while the city hums right outside the window. The scenes in the shelter, with stolen shoes and missing pages from library paperbacks, felt real. The author knows how to sketch misery with a weird sort of warmth, and it got to me. I found myself rooting for Alex even when she made choices that made me cringe. Her sarcasm worked as armor and sometimes as a cry for help, and I kept feeling that mix of frustration and sympathy that only an authentic character can pull out of me. I liked how the story showed small humiliations stacking up until they almost crush her. It made the idea of her chasing after a potentially kidnapped little girl feel brave and foolish at the same time.
I also loved the way the book let humor bubble up in the middle of all this roughness. The people Alex meets feel sharp and odd and alive. Cici, especially, stood out for me with her wild honesty and her ability to read people. Those scenes in her apartment, with candles and cheap beer and joints being passed around, had this messy intimacy that made me slow down and sit with the characters. The conversations were simple but loaded, and it reminded me how strangers can sometimes see us more clearly than the people we once loved. The writing made me feel the confusion and the longing and the strange comfort that comes when someone finally calls you out in a way you cannot dodge. It made the book feel less like a mystery and more like a story about being lost and trying to claw back a sense of purpose.
I think this book is for anyone who likes a gritty story with humor that slips in. It is good for readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries or stories where the setting feels like a character itself. If you like flawed leads who get knocked down hard and still keep stumbling forward, this one will hit the spot.
Pages: 336 | ASIN : B0FDBHB5ZM
The Teetotaler’s Bar
Carolyn Summer Quinn’s The Teetotaler’s Bar is a delightful, quirky mystery that blends humor, intrigue, and a bit of heartfelt reflection. The story follows Jazz Kenneally, a young, health-conscious teetotaler who unexpectedly inherits a bar and a fortune from her estranged, half-aunt Lysandra Somersby. However, this isn’t just any bar; it’s a murder scene. Lysandra was shot in cold blood, and Jazz finds herself in the middle of a puzzling whodunit, surrounded by an eclectic cast of characters who each add their own flair to the unfolding mystery.
One of the most engaging aspects of Quinn’s writing is her ability to create a vivid, immersive atmosphere. From the bright, airy bar that defies Jazz’s expectations to the Art Deco elegance of the inherited apartment, every setting is described with such detail that it feels like a character in its own right. The juxtaposition of Jazz’s distaste for alcohol with her new role as a bar owner adds a layer of irony and humor that keeps the narrative lively. Jazz is a relatable protagonist, navigating the unexpected inheritance with a mix of pragmatism and bewilderment. The supporting characters, from the loyal but quirky bar staff to the eccentric tenants of the inherited building, are well-drawn and contribute significantly to the story’s charm. Quinn’s exploration of themes like family estrangement, responsibility, and the dangers of assumptions gives the book a thoughtful edge. Jazz’s reflections on her relationship with her late aunt and the moral dilemmas she faces as a sudden heiress add depth to what could easily have been a light, breezy mystery.
The Teetotaler’s Bar is a charming, offbeat mystery that will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a mix of humor and suspense. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a cozy mystery with a modern twist, where the protagonist’s journey is as important as the mystery itself. This is a delightful read for a relaxed afternoon, offering both laughs and a few thoughtful moments along the way.
Pages: 167 | ASIN : B0DBFYD5LD
A Dangerous Combination
Death By Association follows a woman living in a small resort village who tries to solve a murder mystery that all started with a scandal in the HOA. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Let’s be honest: HOA Boards tend to attract the power-hungry and bored, always a dangerous combination. HOAs also wield a surprising amount of genuine legal power. When you mix that power with a few individuals who have too much time, nothing better to do, and a taste for snooping on their neighbors, you get a hot mess. Hating the HOA is a universal, shared human experience, and it’s surprising more meetings don’t end in open murder! The inspiration for the book came directly from an internal fracas at the homeowners association in my own neighborhood, which was precipitated by a series of vicious letters and emails. Nobody died, of course, but it felt like it might easily have come to that.
Desert Pines seems like the perfect place to go when you want to just escape the fast-paced life. Was there a reason why you chose this location as the backdrop for your story?
The city of Desert Pines is based loosely on the small resort town of Sunriver, Oregon. I spent most of my summers there growing up and still try to get out there several times a year. The nice thing about a Resort setting is that there is great fuel for the imagination and even better sources of material. Some of the population is settled, but much of it is transient, providing a great opportunity for steady characters and new faces alike. I’m also fascinated by the idea that human drama will happen wherever there are humans. Crime and heartbreak aren’t confined to the big city, and the most interesting dramas can play out in the smallest of settings
Is there anything about Jane that came from yourself or your life experiences?
Jane often speaks with my voice, but I have also enjoyed giving her opinions and feelings that I don’t share as well. Writing is a very cathartic exercise, a perfect way to inhabit personalities, emotions, and thoughts that are much different from your own. Jane shares my sense of the ridiculous, for sure, but I’m much less reserved than she is.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
The next book in the series, called Rapid Death, continues the adventures of Jane, Joe, and Howard and was released in July of 2023. The third book in the series, Death Benefit, will be released in early summer of 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook
Jane McLaren is happy living and working in the sleepy resort village of Desert Pines, Oregon – or so she tells herself. She has a home with her feisty grandfather for as long as she wants it, a steady job as a barista, and no questions asked.
Boredom may be a small price to pay for privacy, but Jane quickly discovers that when nothing has meaning, you might start to care about anything. Even the HOA.
After a minor town scandal escalates into something more sinister, neighbor turns on neighbor and the annual meeting of the homeowners association ends in open murder.
Can this unwilling amateur sleuth solve the mystery before it’s too late, or will the murderer strike again?
Death By Association
Death By Association by Julie Titterington is set in the tranquil town of Desert Pines—a setting that protagonist Jane McLaren appreciates for its unhurried pace. Recently relocated to live with her grandfather, Dr. Howard McLaren, Jane starts anew, working as a barista and forming a close friendship with her employer, Timothy. Her routine life takes a sharp turn when a distraught local, Chad, warns her of a brewing “HOA crisis.” Jane’s curiosity is piqued, but she soon realizes that this local drama is about to escalate into a murder investigation, pulling her into the midst of it due to her unique past skills.
The novel thrives on its dynamic ensemble. The HOA board, a mosaic of philanthropists, doctors, and real estate agents, not only harbors personal secrets but also a collective animosity toward their controversial president, Chad Perenna. The introduction of a determined and charming detective, Joe Conner, adds another layer to the narrative as he seeks Jane’s assistance in solving the crime. Titterington excels in crafting deep, multifaceted characters, particularly in detailing Jane’s relationships with Timothy, Detective Conner, and her grandfather. The tensions among the spouses of the board members and the looming threat of wildfires bring additional depth and urgency to the story. Engaging and filled with intrigue, Death By Association is a compelling start to what promises to be an absorbing series. The book’s rich character development and clever plot twists make it a recommended read for those who enjoy thrillers with strong female leads and complex interpersonal dynamics.
Death By Association serves as a captivating introduction to Julie Titterington’s new series, expertly weaving suspense and rich character development. The story invites readers to delve into the deceptively quiet world of Desert Pines, where every character conceals layers yet to be uncovered. This novel is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a thriller that balances intrigue with deep personal connections.
Pages: 330 | ASIN : B0BR8JJ3K7
I’m Undeniably a Pantser
We Are Shadows: An Irish Ghost Story follows three sisters with unique abilities who use their talents to solve cold-case murders. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration came initially from stories about my Irish ancestors. My Connolly great-grandfather emigrated from Ireland in the Famine Years and panned for gold with his brothers in Alaska during the Alaskan Gold Rush in the Klondike. The three sisters are named for my Irish cousins whom I finally met in person this past year. They were extremely helpful in getting the slang correct.
Did you create an outline for the characters in the story before you started writing or did the character’s personalities grow organically as you were writing?
I’m undeniably a pantser; the story and characters developed as I wrote. I would put the sisters in a scene then listen to what they said to each other and frantically try to write it all down before I lost it. They definitely took on a life of their own!
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
I write a scene, then let it simmer and stew for a while to see where it will go. Ideas often come in the liminal state before waking each morning. I keep a notebook by my bed to jot down keywords then hope I remember the gist when I’m fully awake and ready to write.
Can you tell us what the second book will be about and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
I traveled to Ireland this past summer and got several ideas for the Gallagher Girls’ continuing adventures. Two of my favorite spots were Brú Na Boínne and the Aran Islands. These locations will be the setting for the next book, which is about half-way written. I hope to get it finished and edited, ready for release in the Spring 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Moira’s ability to talk with the dead gives her detective agency, Gallagher Investigations, an edge in uncovering secrets the past has buried. With the help of her sisters, Nuala and Deirdre, she assists those unsettled spirits in finding peace by righting the wrongs done to them before they found themselves on the Other Side. The past collides with the present as these Irish sisters solve cold-case murders and mayhem through their dreams, paranormal visitations, and spunk.
If you enjoy a cozy mystery, ghosts of the friendly and not-so-friendly variety, or anything Irish, you’ll love We Are Shadows.
We Are Shadows: An Irish Ghost Story
We Are Shadows: An Irish Ghost Story by Gail Grant Park delves into the captivating world of three sisters: Moira, Deidre, and Nuala Gallagher. Each sister possesses a unique gift – Moira can see ghosts, Deidre is passionate about herbal healing, and Nuala has a knack for experiencing distinctive dreams. Stemming from a childhood incident where Moira witnessed a tragic event, she, along with her siblings, embarks on investigations into paranormal happenings. As readers journey with them, they encounter eerie entities, mysterious haunted homes, and the eternal struggle of light versus dark.
Moira stands out as an optimistic beacon of courage, while Deidre’s inquisitive nature keeps her intrigued by Moira’s spectral encounters. Nuala, talented in the kitchen, also navigates the intricacies of love with her love interest, Sean. It’s refreshing to see a narrative where sisterly bonds are cherished and not tainted by constant conflict. Grant Park emphasizes the importance of family, a sentiment further bolstered by the role of the sisters’ mother, whose research aids them immensely. The story is painted against the scenic backdrop of Ireland, giving the narrative an added layer of mystique, making one wonder about the secrets concealed within its age-old residences.
The story is engaging with its suspense-laden atmosphere and gripping action sequences. Each chapter beckons readers further into the heart of the tale, with unexpected twists ensuring they remain on their toes.
While I enjoyed the story, I think it would make the narrative more enjoyable if there were stronger adversaries challenging the sisters, providing them with more formidable obstacles to overcome. However, fans of paranormal fiction and family-centered stories will undoubtedly find this book to be a delightful read.
The story serves as a testament to the power of family and the mysteries that lurk in places both familiar and foreign. The book is a memorable journey that any reader with a penchant for the supernatural should not hesitate to embark upon.
Pages: 247 | ASIN : B0CK57LZJ2
Cruel Lessons
In Cruel Lessons by Randy Overbeck, the seemingly ordinary Foster Middle School is shaken by the tragic drug-related deaths of four students. In response, the school administrator, Ken Parks, is asked to investigate the incident. He soon discovers that the drugs responsible for the tragedy are being sourced from within the school itself. However, the investigation uncovers two staff members with dubious pasts – a beloved teacher and the school custodian – who have managed to evade scrutiny thus far. As the investigation continues, the secrets of this quiet town are gradually revealed, eventually leading Ken to uncover the truth behind the students’ deaths.
The novel is masterfully written, featuring a cast of complex characters and events that effortlessly capture and hold the reader’s attention. Each new revelation adds to the suspense and keeps the reader on edge, eagerly anticipating what further secrets the story holds. Just when the source of the drugs appears to be uncovered, the novel unveils more secrets about life in the town, leaving the reader yearning to learn more.
The dark secret concerning Ken’s marriage and his wife appears to be linked to the illegal drug trade. This secret ultimately leads to another death, causing a drastic change in Ken’s life. Ken’s impressive resilience in the face of a life-altering event showcases his inner strength and adaptability. This story is a compelling and thought-provoking read, demonstrating the author’s skill in crafting a captivating mystery.
Cruel Lessons by Randy Overbeck is a gripping crime thriller and amateur sleuth mystery. I recommend this intriguing story to those who are fans of thrilling mysteries that will leave readers guessing till the end reveal.
Pages: 359 | ASIN : B0CDJ6GL5W
LITERARY TITAN 