Waves of Murder ~ Spotlight with Giveaway

Join Fiona and the gang for a hot whodunit on the 

sandy beaches of Presque Isle, Pennsylvania!

Book Details:

Book Title: Waves of Murder: A Fiona Quinn Mystery
Author: C.S. McDonald
​Category: YA Fiction, 190 pages
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publisher: McWriter Books
Release date: April 11, 2017
Tour dates: May 15 to 26, 2017
Content Rating: G
(The Fiona Quinn Mysteries are for everyone--adults love the books and they are appropriate for teens and tweens too!)

Book Description:

School’s out for the summer!

Kindergarten teacher, Fiona Quinn is looking forward to spending some quality time in her yard and with her boyfriend, Detective Nathan Landry. However, Fiona’s plans get squelched when her mother volunteers her to edit a manuscript for famous romance author, Wyla Parkes.

What’s so bad about that? The author insists Fiona must work on the manuscript at her beach cottage on Presque Isle--three hours away from her yard and Nathan. Spending six weeks in an adorable cottage on a private beach doesn’t really seem all that bad until people start turning up dead—beginning with the author! Fiona’s summer of sun and sand is instantly transformed into a murder investigation. Can Fiona and Nathan crack the case or will the murderer get away on a wave of deceit?

Join Fiona and the gang for a hot whodunit on the sandy beaches of Presque Isle, Pennsylvania!

​Buy the Book: 

Amazon

Add to Goodreads

Meet the Author: 

For twenty-six years C.S. McDonald’s life whirled around a song and a dance. She was a professional dancer and choreographer. During that time she choreographed many musicals and an opera for the Pittsburgh Savoyards. In 2011 she retired from her dance career to write. Under her real name, Cindy McDonald, she writes murder-suspense and romantic suspense novels. In 2014 she added the pen name, C.S. McDonald, to write children’s books for her grandchildren. Now she adds the Fiona Quinn Mysteries to that expansion. She decided to write the cozy mystery series for her young granddaughters, and has found that so many adults love them too.

Ms. McDonald resides on her Thoroughbred farm known as Fly by Night Stables near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her husband, Bill, and her poorly behaved Cocker Spaniel, Allister.

Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook


BOOK SPOTLIGHT TOUR:

May 15 - Library of Clean Reads - book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
May 15 - Book Crazy Scrapbook Mama - book spotlight / giveaway
May 15 - Working Mommy Journal - book spotlight / giveaway
May 15 - Corinne Rodrigues - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
May 16 - Reviews in the City - book spotlight / giveaway
May 16 - Celticlady's Reviews - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
May 16 - Books, Dreams, Life - book spotlight / giveaway
May 16 - Blooming with Books - book spotlight / giveaway
May 17 - Rainy Day Reviews - book spotlight / giveaway
May 17 - Sleuth Cafe - book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
May 17 - Zerina Blossom's Books - book spotlight / giveaway
May 17 - Mystery Suspense Reviews - book spotlight / guest post
May 18 - FUONLYKNEW - book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
May 18 - The Book Drealms - book spotlight / giveaway
May 18 - Laura's Interests - book spotlight / giveaway
May 18 - #redhead.with.book - book spotlight / giveaway
May 19 - Babs Book Bistro - book spotlight / giveaway
May 19 - Brooke Blogs - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
May 19 -100 Pages a day - book spotlight / giveaway
May 19 - Puddletown Reviews - book spotlight / giveaway
May 22 - Hall Ways Blog - book spotlight / giveaway
May 22 - Literary Flits - book spotlight / giveaway
May 22 - Books for Books - book spotlight
May 22 - Bound 2 Escape - book spotlight / giveaway
May 23 - Kristin's Novel Cafe - book spotlight / giveaway
May 23 - Katie's Clean Book Collection - book spotlight / giveaway
May 23 - Cassidy's Bookshelves - book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
May 23 - Travelling Through Words - book spotlight / giveaway
May 24 - Rockin' Book Reviews - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
May 24 - Seasons of Opportunities - book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
May 24 - Bookworm Cafe - book spotlight / giveaway
May 25 - JBronder Book Reviews - book spotlight
May 25 - Carole's Book Corner - book spotlight /
May 25 - Deal Sharing Aunt - book spotlight / giveaway
May 26 - 3 Partners in Shopping Nana, Mommy + Sissy, Too! - spotlight / giveaway
May 26 - StoreyBook Reviews - book spotlight / giveaway
May 26 - Jessica Cassidy - book spotlight

Enter the Giveaway!

Ends June 3

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Behind the Scenes ~ Review

Behind the Scenes
Apart from the Crowd #1
By Jen Turano

What if you were deemed too unusual for polite society and yet you were a part of it? Well, for six years Miss Permilia Griswold has found herself in just such a position and has been relegated to the wallflower section. Most young women would be disheartened at finding themselves in just such a position but Permilia uses it to her advantage - sharing society tidbits with the reading public through her society gossip column.

And when left to her own devices Permilia was known to be very spendthrift - not that a young woman of her means should have to, but Permilia had a special need for all her saved allowance. And if saving a coin or two could be accomplished by haggling Permilia wasn't about to waste a coin she could save. Unfortunately for Mr. Asher Rutherford he was the target of Permilia's latest haggling experience.

To say Permilia made an impression on Asher was an understatement. And when Permilia manages to dance with Asher she is about to make an impression on society that won't soon be forgotten as her style of dance is uniquely Permilia. And when she overhears a threat to Asher's life Permilia knows she has to act. What follows is a series of events that are both humorous and serious and polite society will never be the same.

This is a fun first book in the newest series from Jen Turano and like her other books, this is one heroine one wouldn't mind spending time with. Permilia is a caring person who knows her own mind and is inventive in getting the results she desires. This is a light-hearted historical fiction that will leave the reader with a relaxed and happy disposition. And who knew that society gossip could fill out a dance card (or two or three).

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.

About the Book:
After spending the last six years banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom, Miss Permilia Griswold has finally figured out a way to pass the time at all the New York high-society events she attends. Under the pseudonym "Miss Quill," she is the author of society gossip columns filled with tidbits only an insider in society--albeit one on the fringes--would know. 

When she overhears a threat against Mr. Asher Rutherford, the owner of one of the most up-and-coming department stores in the city, she's determined to warn him. But the irritatingly handsome man doesn't believe her, leaving her no choice but to take matters into her own hands. What she doesn't anticipate is that she'll end up putting herself at risk in the process--or that she and Mr. Rutherford, a man with secrets of his own, just might end up joining forces after all.

Too Deep for Words ~ Review

Too Deep for Words
Shenandoah Valley Saga
By Andrea Boeshaar

Carrie Ann Collier has become a new person at least to those who use to know her when she lived in Woodstock and was Carrie Ann Bell.  Her new husband Peyton has changed her life for the better and unknown to her he has invited her sister Margaret to join them leaving the abuse of the Wayfarers Inn behind forever.  But Margaret has changed since Carrie Ann last saw her. She's grown up and she is appreciative of all that Carrie Ann had done for her.

But after a brutal battle news is delivered to Carrie Ann that Peyton is missing and presumed dead. But she refuses to believe her husband of less than one month has been killed. But everyone else believes the awful news that their nephew, brother, brother-in-law, and friend has died. Even more upsetting is Peyton's directive naming his close friend Eli Kent as executor of his will. How could he pick someone on the opposing side of the war?

To Eli, Peyton's request is a blessing in disguise offering him an opportunity to care for his family while looking out for Carrie Ann as well. But can he help Carrie Ann when she most needs it - searching for her husband behind enemy lines in the most notorious prison camp - Libby Prison?

This book is a fictionalized account of the Civil War from October 1864 to March 1865 with actual dated news reports throughout. The focus of this book is the Confederate viewpoint and the destruction that was wrought on the Shenandoah Valley. The pain and suffering of war is well portrayed and the utter lack of the essentials was a driving force in the harsh conditions that the prisoners found themselves in.

This is a story of faith and family. I have not read the first book but I was able to easily able to pick up on the storyline without any difficulty. This is a moving historical romance that will appeal to a wide readership. I highly recommend this book it would be an excellent choice for a book club selection. Carrie Ann's journey and faith would be well worth an examination.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review.

About the Book:

Carrie Ann Collier has been a newlywed for nineteen blissful days--as blissful as life can be in the midst of war, that is. Soon that war will take a toll she never expected. When her new husband, Peyton, goes missing during battle, she refuses to believe he is dead and must find a way to move forward with everyday life in the face of fear.

As Carrie struggles with how to welcome her estranged sister, Margaret, back into her life, another new arrival appears on her doorstep--her husband's best friend, and rebel officer, Eli. Wounded and bitter, Eli is nonetheless committed to keeping his promise to Peyton: take care of the Collier women, no matter what. But to Carrie, he's a painful reminder of her lost love.

Then unexpected news makes Carrie wonder if miracles do happen. If Carrie infiltrates the enemy once again, she might find out what really happened to the love of her life. Will Eli be able to keep his promise to keep her safe? Can they forgive each other if promises are broken?

As fans of Boeshaar's books have come to expect, Too Deep for Words is a meticulously researched novel. Readers are taken directly into the heart of the realities of the Civil War and reminded how, even in the darkest circumstances, faith in Christ offers hope.

The Essential Amish Cookbook ~ Review

The Essential Amish Cookbook
Everyday Recipes from Farm and Pantry
By Lovina Eicher

The Essential Amish Cookbook is a delightful assortment of recipes, personal tidbits, and photographs (but none of the author). For those who want to create food from scratch, this is would be a perfect gift. There is a little bit of everything in this book - breads, breakfast dishes, soups, salads, meat dishes, desserts, and much more. There are many dishes that will appeal to Vegetarians (not Vegans).

This more than a cookbook as the author shares personal information about the various recipes and her life. For those who are interested in learning more about Amish life there is information about both church services and weddings and recipes that will feed a large crowd - think a couple hundred or more.

There are over a hundred recipes found within these pages - so one is sure to find something to please and delight most palates. I'm personally looking forward to trying out several of the breads and many of the desserts. And who knew there was a salad recipe featuring dandelions (these are my treat of choice for our horses and goats!).

And just a warning don't look at this book when hungry it will inspire cooking!

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectation of a positive review, All expressed opinions are my own.


About the Book:

Taste the goodness of Amish life.

Bestselling cookbook author and food columnist Lovina Eicher brings together the best of Amish cooking in The Essential Amish Cookbook: Everyday Recipes from Farm and Pantry. Join Eicher as she shares traditional Amish recipes along with her own kitchen tips and secrets. Growing up, Eicher learned to cook and bake at an early age alongside her mother, longtime columnist and Amish cookbook author Elizabeth Coblentz, and has put those skills to use in her own Amish kitchen as she cooks for her eight children.

The easy-to-follow, authentic recipes you’ll find in The Essential Amish Cookbook are prepared every day in countless homes in Old Order Amish communities across North America. Many of the more than 100 recipes are richly illustrated with step-by-step photographs to help you learn Amish cooking just as if you were in Lovina’s kitchen. From hearty main dishes to substantial sides—plus a generous sampling of scrumptious cakes, pies, cookies, and other delectable desserts—learn how to make the hearty, simple dishes that the Amish cook together and serve at home, church services, and weddings.

In a fast-food, digital world, the book’s colorful photos and conversational tone provide a real taste of Amish life and invite you to slow down. Your family will come to love her Zucchini Chocolate Chip Bread, Rhubarb Juice, Roast Beef with Veggies, Oven Crusted Chicken, pickles, jams, and so much more. Experience the simple joys of Amish life—food, faith and family!

About the Author:

Lovina Eicher is author of the syndicated column, Lovina’s Amish Kitchen, which appears in 40 newspapers around the United States and on a weekly blog maintain by her editors. She is the author of several cookbooks. Lovina and her husband have eight children and live in rural Michigan.

The Noble Servant ~ Review

The Noble Servant
A Medieval Fairy Tale #3
By Melanie Dickerson

Magdalen of Mallin is desperate to save her people who have been suffering since the region's copper mines ran out and her father died. Her only hope is marriage to a wealthy man, but Magdalen has always dreamed of marrying for love. And secretly she has had fond memories of her short time in the presence of the Duke of Wolfberg. But her dreams of the Duke are just that dreams or are they?

Suddenly Magdalen's hopes and dreams for herself and her people are about to come true. But when Magdalen's dream becomes a nightmare - when she is forced into a role of servitude by the very servants entrusted with her care - she finds herself living a life she never imagined. But who would believe a shamed servant girl that she is in truth the intended bride of the Duke of Wolfberg?

But there is more at stake in Wolfberg than Magdalen's future as something about the Duke seems amiss, but is Magdalen's memory of the Duke true or has it been altered by her dreams?

This is another delightful tale from Melanie Dickerson and those who have read her previous books will once again be enchanted. For those new to her work, this book is well worth reading as her books can stand alone though there are little snippets that refer to characters who have been in previous books. Tweens, teens and adults alike can enjoy this wholesome and refreshing reimagining of the Goose Girl. The cover is as beautiful as the story it wraps.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher through BookLook with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

SHE lost everything 

to the SCHEME of an 

EVIL SERVANT.

But SHE MIGHT just gain what 

she’s ALWAYS WANTED . . .if she 

makes it IN TIME.

The impossible was happening. She, Magdalen of Mallin, was to marry the Duke of Wolfberg. Magdalen had dreamed about receiving a proposal ever since she met the duke two years ago. Such a marriage was the only way she could save her people from starvation. But why would a handsome, wealthy duke want to marry her, a poor baron’s daughter? It seemed too good to be true.

On the journey to Wolfberg Castle, Magdalen’s servant forces her to trade places and become her servant, threatening not only Magdalen’s life, but the lives of those she holds dear. Stripped of her identity and title in Wolfberg, where no one knows her, Magdalen is sentenced to tend geese while she watches her former handmaiden gain all Magdalen had ever dreamed of.

When a handsome shepherd befriends her, Magdalen begins to suspect he carries secrets of his own. Together, Magdalen and the shepherd uncover a sinister plot against Wolfberg and the duke. But with no resources, will they be able to find the answers, the hiding places, and the forces they need in time to save both Mallin and Wolfberg?

New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson beautifully re-imagines The Goose Girl by the Brothers Grimm into a medieval tale of adventure, loss, and love.

A Stranger at Fellsworth ~ Review

A Stranger at Fellsworth
A Treasure of Surrey Novel #3
By Sarah E. Ladd

Annabelle Thorley has determined that leaving the life she has always known is her only option. Her brother is strongly encouraging her to marry a man she wants nothing to do with, Her social standing has fallen with the scandal surrounding her father before his death. Her fiancé has abandoned her in favor of a more socially advantageous match. A long ago promise of help from her uncle is her only hope for a future that she will determine. 

Doing the unexpected Annabelle leaves London society behind for Fellsworth, where she hopes her brother will never find her. The luxury that Annabelle has lived is to be a thing of the past as the safe harbor she seeks with her uncle means she will have to work at the school he runs. But  Annabelle is willing to do what is necessary.

With the help of an almost total stranger - Owen Locke, Anabelle manages to make good her escape. But like her Owen has lived under a cloud of scandal following the death of his wife. But Owen has a way of making Annabelle feel safe - something she never expected.

But there is an undercurrent in Fellsworth that keeps Annabelle from feeling completely safe. And when poachers begin causing trouble in the area Owen is tasked with finding those responsible. But Owen feels there is more going on than just poaching and he feels there is a link to the school.

This story is set in 1819, England and those who enjoy an uncurrent of mystery with their historical fiction will love delving into this book. This book is the third book in the A Treasury of Surrey series but it is not necessary to have read the first two books in this series to enjoy this book.  The action and reflective moments are a well-balanced blend that keeps the reader's interest from cover-to-cover.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher through BookLook with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

Could losing everything be the best thing 

to happen to Annabelle Thorley?

In the fallout of her deceased father’s financial ruin, Annabelle’s prospects are looking bleak. Her fiancé has called off their betrothal, and now she remains at the mercy of her controlling and often cruel brother. Annabelle soon faces the fact that her only hope for a better life is to do the unthinkable and run away to Fellsworth, the home of her long-estranged aunt and uncle, where a teaching position awaits her. Working for a wage for the first time in her life forces Annabelle to adapt to often unpleasant situations as friendships and roles she’s taken for granted are called into question.

Owen Locke is unswerving in his commitments. As a widower and father, he is fiercely protective of his only daughter. As an industrious gamekeeper, he is intent on keeping poachers at bay even though his ambition has always been to eventually purchase land that he can call his own. When a chance encounter introduces him to the lovely Annabelle Thorley, his steady life is shaken. For the first time since his wife’s tragic death, Owen begins to dream of a second chance at love.

As Owen and Annabelle grow closer, ominous forces threaten the peace they thought they’d found. Poachers, mysterious strangers, and murderers converge at Fellsworth, forcing Annabelle and Owen to a test of fortitude and bravery to stop the shadow of the past from ruining their hopes for the future. 

Local Poet ~ Review

Local Poet
By Paul Trembling

He killed her.

But who was she?

Rob Seaton was living a life that didn't attract attention - just a normal guy who lived life as it came to him. But the day he first notices Laney Gray is her last.

Who is this woman that stepped in front of his van? Was she trying to die or were they both just in the wrong place at the wrong time?

Rob is determined to learn who Laney was and his quest takes him into a world he's never before experienced. He enters Laney's world - a world of words with layered and complex meanings. Laney's poetry brings Rob into a new understanding of this young woman whose life ended so suddenly. Laney's poetry hides the answers that Rob seeks - the answer as to why - he just needs to see beneath the surface.

Local Poet is a mystery and the first book of a new series. If you are looking for an intense climatic reading experience you need to read this book. This book feels longer than it is and yet it doesn't last long enough.  Fortunately, there is a sneak peek at the second book in the series. If you're looking for a mystery that builds in suspense as the book progresses give this new series a try. Highly recommended if you like an unexpected twist or two along the way.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

A horrific road accident is just the start of a journey into the dark past of the local poet. Rob doesn't know Laney Grey. But when she deliberately steps out in front of his van and dies on impact, his life will never be the same. The police declare him innocent, but how will he deal with the guilt?

Now Rob is driven to know who she was, why she chose to die, and why he had to be part of her death. To understand her, he must read her poetry. To know her, he must unravel the mysteries of her past. As Laney's dark secret starts to come to light, and Rob's innocence is questioned, he must learn the full truth. But truth comes at a cost. Will Rob be the one who has to pay the price?