The hardest part of writing a novel is the beginning. A reader’s interest must be captured in the first few pages, or they’ll move on to the next title in their wish list. An author might want to introduce the characters, the setting, and the main conflict all at once, but these should be weaved … Read more
If you like Christmas in July, you might like Chanukah in June! Get a head start on the holidays by adding DREIDELS AND DEAD ENDS to your summer reading list and order some print copies for holiday gifts. Early Release Date: June 23, 2026 Published by Orange Grove Press Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-40-9 Print ISBN: 978-1-952886-39-3 … Read more
Eating your way through a cruise is a popular pastime, and my recent 4-night voyage on RCCL’s Utopia of the Seas was no exception. The trip started with a seafood buffet for lunch in the Windjammer Café on Day One. I had lobster tail and shrimp before moving on to barbecue chicken, salad, and accompaniments. … Read more
This past week, I sailed on RCCL’s Utopia of the Seas to Nassau and Coco Cay on a 4-night voyage. I’ve posted about this ship from a previous voyage with photos HERE. My favorite hangouts this time were the Crown Lounge on Deck 16 for a quiet, indoor spot (Diamond members and above only) and … Read more
Today is Release Day for the Large Print hardcover edition of Murder Pays a Call from Center Point Large Print! This is the book for you if you prefer large print for your home library. Or, please ask your local librarian to order a copy. No job is too detailed or too difficult for personal … Read more
Independent authors try to keep their print book prices reasonable, but when book distributors raise their costs, we may have to adjust our retail prices accordingly to maintain the same income. IngramSpark, a worldwide distributor, is increasing printing costs this year. IS sells books at a discount to bookstores and libraries. The lowest discount an … Read more
It is with a sad heart that I share the news that my husband passed away last month. While adjusting to his loss, I am slowly getting through all the tasks that need to be done. In the early morning hours, I’ve once again been working on my latest mystery. This brings me comfort and … Read more
I am excited to offer a new trade paperback edition of Circle of Light, #1 in The Light-Year Series. This title was originally published by Dorchester and has been revised with added bonus materials. The idea came as a dream, and when I woke up, I realized I had to finish the story. Circle of … Read more
In writing a novel, authors research much more material than goes into the story. If we add too much, our editors call it an info dump. But too little, and things might not make sense. In Star Tangled Murder, hairstylist Marla Vail and her detective husband, Dalton, attend a battle reenactment at a living history … Read more
Reviews are an author’s lifeblood. At best, they can strongly influence new readers to buy your book. At worst, a slew of poor reviews or low numbers may lead your publisher to think twice about accepting your option book. The quantity and ratings also affect your promotional opportunities since some ads require at least 10 … Read more