Blog Archives
Dylan’s Dilemma (Dylan’s Dog Squad Book 1)
Dylan’s Dilemma is a sweet, funny, and sometimes heartbreaking story about a cocker spaniel named Dylan who starts his life in a cramped crate in South Korea and winds up on a wild adventure that brings him all the way to sunny Southern California. The book follows Dylan’s ups and downs as he finds freedom with his first owner, Aiden, faces abandonment when Aiden can no longer keep him, and eventually struggles to find a place in a new family with a boy named Casey and his no-nonsense mother. Written mostly from Dylan’s point of view, the book brings readers right into the mind of a lovable, mischievous pup who’s just trying to figure out where he belongs.
What really struck me about this book was how real Dylan’s emotions felt. Kathleen Troy doesn’t just tell you Dylan is happy or scared; she makes you feel it. When Dylan thinks, “My lungs are shrinking. I can’t breathe,” after Aiden gives him up, my heart physically hurt. Troy’s writing captures Dylan’s innocence perfectly, especially in moments like when he tries to “help” in Casey’s mom’s office by turning her important project into a shredded hamster collage. I found myself laughing aloud, though it was a bittersweet kind of laughter, recognizing that the little dog was simply trying his best.
The pacing of the story kept me locked in, too. One minute, I was giggling over Dylan’s craft skills (destroying cords, baseboards, and tables like a tiny wrecking ball), and the next, I was genuinely nervous when he was sent off in a crate across the ocean. The humor balances out the emotional gut punches really well. Plus, Casey’s character is just the right mix of loyal and goofy. His determination to keep Dylan, even when his mom is dead set against it, made me root for them both so hard. Their bond is simple but strong, like when Casey calls Dylan “Little Buddy,” giving him a sense of belonging again after losing Aiden.
One thing I noticed is that some of the adult characters are written with a playful exaggeration, especially Casey’s mom, who shifts from grumpy to affectionate with the speed of a light switch. It actually adds to the lively, slightly cartoonish tone of the story (particularly during hilarious moments like Eddie-the-Whiner’s antics at dog training). The vibrant style suits the book’s mission: to entertain first, warm the heart second, and sprinkle in seriousness just where it’s needed.
Dylan’s Dilemma is a real charmer. It’s perfect for anyone who loves dogs, funny misadventures, and heart-tugging stories about finding your forever home. I’d especially recommend it for middle-grade readers or adults who just want a sweet escape for a few hours.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B09RQCDPG5
A Perilous Premiere
Gail Meath’s Perilous Premiere masterfully captures the glitz and grit of the 1930s Hollywood film industry, blending a spellbinding murder mystery with a rich historical backdrop. The story begins with a heart-stopping tragedy: Vivian, a fashion designer and boutique owner, witnesses her husband’s shocking murder just days before their first anniversary. Six months later, as she finally starts to believe justice has been served, fresh evidence shatters her fragile peace, revealing that the real killer still roams free. Determined to find the truth, Vivian follows a trail of elusive leads. As shocking revelations come to light, Vivian uncovers her husband’s shadowy secrets, including a link to a set of stolen, highly coveted coins that have painted a target on her back. Now, ruthless killers will stop at nothing to retrieve the coins.
Meath’s narrative flows with relentless pace and captivating tension. Her portrayal of 1930s Hollywood is vibrant yet sinister, highlighting the industry’s glamorous facade and the murky underbelly of power and deception. The plot, intricately woven and fast-moving, grips the reader from start to finish. While I believe the character development could have been more nuanced, it does not detract from the novel’s intense and thrilling storyline. Vivian and Preston’s evolving dynamic leaves much to anticipate in future installments, and there is plenty of promise for richer character arcs in upcoming books.
Meath deftly weaves historical facts into the fiction, making the story both enlightening and immersive. Her commitment to historical accuracy is underscored in a thoughtful disclaimer, enhancing the novel’s appeal to history enthusiasts.
Perilous Premiere is a dazzling opening to the Stone & Steel Mystery series, offering a thrilling dive into a bygone era brimming with suspense, secrets, and high-stakes drama.
Pages: 200 | ASIN : B0CZS3J93M
Old-Fashioned Country-House Murder Mystery
The Chesterfield Clue follows a former school teacher and his wife who come into a large inheritance and purchase a vineyard in the Finger Lakes. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had introduced Chesterfield, Carrie, their very vivid parents, and even the baroque French barrister Alaistre (“Swifty”) Treves-Alsace in THE CHESTERFIELD HOURS, a pure romantic comedy that earned a starred review from Kirkus and was ultimately named to their Best of 2012 and LOL lists. With the supernatural provenance of the Ffoulkes Fortune, I saw a chance to move them up in the world, to a beautiful Finger Lakes wine estate, where I could essay a good old-fashioned country-house murder mystery.
Your characters are richly developed and complex, really allowing readers to get to know them. Do you incorporate any emotions or memories from your own life into your characters’ lives?
Well, I had a Shakespeare-loving mother of Welsh parentage, for a start. The dad was a veteran, though not of the ferocious exploits of Captain Jack Chesterfield. Beyond that, I fell in love with the idea of making Carrie a girl next door type, and her 50 yr. old mother Barbara a seductress of almost terrifying erotic power. I also love writing master scenes for Swifty, and hope readers indulge me to their profitable enjoyment. Finally, it was only with two Chesterfield novels completed that I realized something mysterious and unconscious about character creation. Two “minor” characters — Jeanine the Gym Chick in THE CHESTERFIELD HOURS, and Deputy Dibberly in THE CHESTERFIELD CLUE — each became in the end sort of working-class, underdog heroes: conceived to fill a function, they took on such life that they were fully in the arena at the climax. Somehow I found justice in that, and wonderment.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
A good question, as slow cooking works for me. I do have a title, and a bit of scribbling. It’s THE CHESTERFIELD NIECES, and those nieces will be quite a contrast and quite a handful together. One will be rich and spoiled (Barbara’s), the other a daughter of Juanita’s brother Johnny, a border sheriff in Texas. And she’s also, sharp readers of The Clue will surmise, cousin to the late Miguel. At least one character from The Clue is going to get killed, and though it won’t be at the hands of either niece, their misadventures won’t be a bit of help in solving anything!
How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
It is always an organism with me, not schematic. Characters come first, like Adam and Eve. I have to clearly see and hear them or they are not there. They have not only their own voices but their own drives, upon which they act for good or evil. OK then. For a shocking plot twist I will cite the decision, quite late in the game, to write a second murder. The primary murder follows country-house tradition: a wealthy, rather disagreeable older family member has cruelly treated many, and created motive all around. A second murder, I felt, would really turn the screw and open up new dimensions, yet be almost traumatically painful. I went on and wrote it, and feel right about it. So that was a battlefield decision, more than halfway through, and so were some character creations made spontaneously: Fauncebroke (“Fancy Boy”) Mountjoy IV, Hannes the winemaker, Mrs. DeChambeau. They made their impact, and I like to think the two judges, one male one female, registered as distinct personalities with distinct bench styles.
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Mother knows best, eh what? At least while mainly sober. Thus when the “mythical” Ffoulkes Fortune actually comes through – and to the only pair who didn’t scheme for it – the ghost of Daphne Ffoulkes Chesterfield instructs her son to “put a bit of it back into the land.” This advice he dutifully follows by purchasing the Finger Lakes wine estate of Carrie’s father, a “reformed” Brooklyn gangster. Ensuing are roomsful of lust, triumph and scandal in the vineyards, humour bone-dry as a fine Cab Sauv, classic country-house murder, and masterly courtroom chessplay from the anciently wise French avocat Alaistre (“Swifty”) Treves-Alsace.
THE CHESTERFIELD CLUE: The First Chesterfield and Carrie Finger Lakes Wine Country Mystery
Gwyn Parry’s The Chesterfield Clue unfolds in the picturesque Finger Lakes wine region, providing a glimpse into the world of Chesterfield, a former schoolteacher turned winemaker, and his vivacious wife, Carrie. Chesterfield navigates complex family dynamics, clashing with his domineering father-in-law, Shemp Hahn, a successful winemaker. Shemp’s wife, Barbara, adds another layer of intrigue with her melancholic demeanor and surprising literary depth.
Parry uses vignettes to introduce characters and build suspense. A lavish party hosted by Shemp serves as a microcosm of the family’s dysfunction, revealing veiled barbs, insecurities, and a shocking altercation involving threats and a gun. Barbara’s unexpected Shakespearean quotes hint at hidden complexity beneath her melancholic facade, further piquing the reader’s curiosity.
The book delves into themes of insecurity, ambition, and the intricate web of familial relationships. Readers will uncover the motivations of each character, revealing hidden resentments and long-held secrets. The Finger Lakes region itself becomes a character, with vivid descriptions capturing the essence of the vineyards, the intricacies of grape varietals, and the art of winemaking. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the immersive exploration of this picturesque region and the insights into viticulture.
Parry excels at creating a compelling array of characters. From the endearingly insecure Chesterfield to the flamboyant Shemp and the enigmatic Barbara, each individual is imbued with depth and personality. Even minor characters, like the housekeeper and Carrie’s brother, pique curiosity, hinting at their potential roles in the unfolding drama. The inclusion of a ghost-like cat named Peevish adds a touch of the unexpected, inviting readers to wonder how it ties into the larger mystery.
With witty dialogue, quirky characters, and a central mystery that keeps you guessing, The Chesterfield Clue is a delightful read for fans of cozy mysteries.
Pages: 340 | ASIN : B0CKXZ9WQP
Not Going to Jail
Framed for Murder follows a cat burglar framed for murder who seeks help from an old acquaintance now running a B&B in a small mountain town. What inspired the setup of your story?
Two weird coincidences, actually. Poppy started out as a nameless character in the first book of the series, “The Starlight Mint Surprise Murder”. My editor said she’d like to see her in the next book and it was already in my head to do it, so it seemed like kismet.
Real life inspired the opening scene. My friend and I were staying at a nice hotel along the coast six or seven floors up, but the drop to the ground was a lot further because the resort was built on a hillside. In the middle of the night, a stranger parkoured across our balcony and just kept going. It was so bizarre I knew I had to use it in a book!
Mel and Poppy are old adversaries from Mel’s previous life as a police officer. What inspired the characters and their relationship?
I’ve always loved stories where enemies have to work together toward a goal and find out they’re not so different after all. From “Toy Story” to “Terminator 2” to “Pirates of the Caribbean” or “Good Omens”, it’s always such a fun dynamic when the two become friends. (Jack Sparrow and Crowley are part of the inspiration behind Poppy.) Or in the case of Les Mis (semi-spoiler alert if you’ve never seen Les Mis) finding common ground drives one of them to take drastic measures. For a while, Mel isn’t sure which way it’s going to go for her!
How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing, or did it develop organically?
One of the joys of being a mystery writer is that when real people piss you off, you get to kill them and not go to jail—LOL! So I knew who the victims were and how they were going to die before I started writing. I typically outline the story in broad strokes before I start, but it usually ends up taking on a life of its own about halfway through.
Where does the next book in the series take the characters?
It’s still a work in progress, but I believe Mel is going to drag Deputy Gregg Marks off the mountain down to her old turf in LA. They need to follow up on some clues to help Jackson out of a bind. Since Jackson and Gregg are rivals, I’m clearly obsessed with exploring enemies begrudgingly helping each other out!
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The situation gets complicated, however, when the ruggedly handsome Deputy Sheriff Gregg Marks flirts with Mel, bringing him dangerously close to the criminal she’s hiding. And just when her friendship with café owner Jackson Thibodeaux blossoms into something more, he’s offered the opportunity of a lifetime in New Orleans. Should she encourage him to go, or ask him to stay? Who knew romance could be just as hard to solve as murder?
Framed for Murder
Framed for Murder by Marla A. White offers a charming blend of cozy mystery and light romance reminiscent of a Hallmark movie. The story centers around Mel O’Rourke, a former police officer who now operates a bed and breakfast in the picturesque mountain town of Pine Cove. Despite a previous murder incident at her establishment, Mel finds her new life settling into a comfortable rhythm—until Poppy Phillips, a notorious cat burglar, arrives seeking refuge from a botched burglary. This complicates matters, especially with a local deputy sheriff who has romantic designs on Mel and could threaten Poppy’s safety.
White’s novel is a delightful foray into the cozy mystery genre, echoing the quaint and engaging qualities of Agatha Christie’s work. The narrative is well-paced, maintaining a balance that is neither too intricate to follow leisurely nor too simplistic to solve prematurely. This equilibrium ensures a pleasurable reading experience that is engaging without being taxing. The real allure of Framed for Murder lies in its characters. Mel O’Rourke, with her law enforcement background, serves as a stabilizing voice of reason amid the colorful cast of secondary characters. Her grounded presence contrasts effectively with the vibrant and sassy contributions of figures like Grandma O’Rourke and Poppy Phillips. The latter’s flair and mystery are so compelling that they could easily be the focus of a spin-off, exploring her adventures and backstory in greater depth.
Marla A. White’s Framed for Murder is an enjoyable read, perfect for those looking to unwind with a book that combines mystery, charm, and a touch of romance. Whether you’re cozying up at home or basking in the summer sun, this novel is a wonderful companion.
Pages: 284 | ASIN : B0D18C415T
The New Neighbors
Step into a world of intrigue and mystery in The New Neighbors, where Sophie’s life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of enigmatic newcomers in the dead of night.
Meet Sophie, a woman with a growing sense of unease about her new neighbors. Amid her own curiosity, she forms a unique bond with Matt, a teenager grappling with the tragic loss of his parents and adjusting to a new life under the care of his aunt and uncle. But it’s not long before Sophie’s unease deepens, and the atmosphere thickens with unsettling incidents that defy explanation. A pervasive sense of danger looms, leaving Sophie baffled by the eerie silence of those around her. Her anxiety mounts as she races against time, struggling to unravel the enigma behind these peculiar occurrences and desperately seeking a way to bring them to an end.
In The New Neighbors, secrets and suspicions intermingle, and readers are thrust into a world where every page brims with tension and uncertainty. Readers join Sophie as she navigates the labyrinth of the unknown, keeping them on the edge of their seats until the very last word. Tamara Cooper’s enchanting writing style effortlessly blends light-heartedness with an irresistible aura of mystery, making it virtually impossible to resist the urge to put the novel down, with a perfect combination of drama and tension keeping readers deliciously on edge.
Sophie, the protagonist, is a delightful character, brimming with intelligence, wit, and a deeply caring nature. She’s the kind of character readers can’t help but root for, and as her world becomes increasingly enigmatic, they eagerly join her quest for answers. The introduction of Sophie’s best friend, Terri, injects an extra layer of charm into the story. Their dynamic duo is a sheer delight to read about, adding humor and depth to the narrative.
But it’s Sophie and Burke’s budding romance that truly steals the show. Their chemistry is palpable, and the author expertly crafts a slow-burning, adorable romantic tension that will have readers emotionally invested in their relationship’s every twist and turn. Tamara Cooper’s gift for vivid imagery transports readers into Sophie’s world with astounding clarity. Readers will feel like an intimate friend of Sophie’s, right beside her, as she unravels the enigma surrounding her mysterious new neighbors. The story’s construction keeps them perpetually intrigued as the mystery and tension gracefully escalate, leaving them hanging on the precipice of revelation until the very last page.
The New Neighbors is a thrilling rollercoaster of suspense that not only delivers on its promises but exceeds them, ensuring that the reading experience is nothing short of exhilarating. Tamara Cooper’s book is a mesmerizing novel that combines the charms of its characters, the allure of a blossoming romance, and the suspense of an enigmatic mystery.
Pages: 359 | ASIN : B0CHKQDG28
LITERARY TITAN 