Tag Archives: THRILLER

What she can see, could kill her: GHOST WRITER by Alison Bruce #mystery #thriller

 

TODAY’S REVOLVING BOOK is the mystery GHOST WRITER by Alison Bruce.

AVAILABLE AT:

amazon  

ABOUT THE STORY:

Jen Kirby has seen ghosts since she was a child, but she can’t talk to them or help them cross over. And, after a violent death in the family, she doesn’t want to see them anymore.

In her role as ghostwriter, Jen joins a Canadian Arctic expedition to document and help solve a forty-year-old mystery involving an American submarine station lost during the Cold War. The trouble is, there are people—living and dead—who don’t want the story told, and they’ll do anything to stop her.

Now Jen is haunted by ghosts she can’t avoid or handle alone. That means confiding in the one man she doesn’t want to dismiss her as “crazy.” But can he help? Or is he part of the problem?

STELLAR REVIEWS:

“A compelling mystery with a unique setting and skillfully handled supernatural twist.” ~ Kelley Armstrong, #1 New York Times Bestselling  Author

A maritime mystery full of twists and turns, heart-pounding suspense, and ghosts! Ghost Writer plunges you into the icy depths of the Arctic Ocean with breath-stealing twists and turns, maritime adventures, page-turning suspense … and ghosts. A great read! ~ Ann Charles, USA Today Bestselling Author of the Deadwood Mystery Series

“Alison Bruce weaves a masterful mystery set in the Arctic that will have you reaching for a hot cup of coffee and a blanket as you feel the cold water splash up off the pages and into your face. With equal parts of paranormal and practicality, Ghost Writer will keep you up all night as you work your way through this addictive page-turner. ” Sheryl Nantus, award winning author of HARD RUN

GHOST WRITER is a must-read for fans of Barbara Michaels, AKA Elizabeth Peters. In GHOST WRITER, Alison Bruce provides it all—sly humour, a feisty yet vulnerable heroine, hunky romantic interests, believable characters, a carefully researched and unusual setting, and page-turning suspense. ~ Janet Bolin, author of the Threadville Mysteries

ABOUT ALISON BRUCE:

Alison Bruce writes history, mystery and suspense.  Her books combine “clever mysteries”, well-researched backgrounds and a touch of romance. Her protagonists are marked by their strength of character, sense of humor and the ability to adapt (sooner or later) to new situations. Four of her novels have been finalists for genre awards.

Copywriter, editor and graphic designer since 1992, Alison has also been a comic book store manager, small press publisher and web designer. Currently she is the Executive Director of Crime Writers of Canada.

website

facebook author page

author blog

twitter @alisonebruce

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She killed her best friend. Now she has to find out why. SWEET KAROLINE by @cathyastolfo #amreading #thriller 99cents

snowman-astolfo-sweetkaroline

Today’s Revolving Book is the psychological suspense novel SWEET KAROLINE by CATHERINE ASTOLFO. 

GET IT ON Amazon FOR ONLY .99 CENTS.  http://amzn.to/2fL3G9A

GET IT ON SMASHWORDS: FOR ONLY .99 CENTS http://www.imajinbooks.com/smashwords-ebook-sale/

WATCH THE TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/?gl=CA

READ AN EXCERPT: http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Karoline-Catherine-Astolfo/dp/192779207X

ABOUT THE BOOK:
If I knew what I know now, would I have searched so hard for the truth?

Anne Williams says she killed her best friend, Karoline. But did she? Or is there more to Karoline’s mysterious death than meets the eye?

Anne embarks on a compelling journey to discover her past and exposes an unusual history, horrific crimes and appalling betrayals. Through unexpected turns and revelations, Anne learns about love, family and who she really is. Can she survive the truth?

STELLAR REVIEWS:

“Astolfo’s wonderful first sentence in Sweet Karoline explodes on the page and resonates right to the end of this twisting examination of dangerous minds. Never have I encountered a narrative voice that alternates more deftly between alienating and enticing.” —Mel Bradshaw, author of Fire On The Runway

“A deliciously twisted story about the perplexing power of adult female relationships. By turns scathingly funny and darkly insightful, Sweet Karoline is a hedonistic journey with all the right ingredients: lust, betrayal, true love and mystery. Grab a glass of wine and have the bottle handy. A compelling read from the start through to the surprising end.” —Robin Spano, author of Death’s Last Run

“In Catherine Astolfo’s chilling new novel Sweet Karoline, things aren’t always as they seem. Anne, the multifaceted anti-heroine in this noir tale takes a fateful journey into her forgotten past, uncovering the painful roots of her childhood. While furrowing for answers, a mystery unfolds, truths swirl to the surface, a heinous murder occurs. Who’s the killer? Caught in a tangled web of greed, lies and deceit Anne must come to terms with her past, present and future, and the bleak realization that those we hold close may be the last ones to trust. Compelling, visually descriptive, deftly delivered…Catherine Astolfo’s got the goods!” —Douglas Wickard, author of A Perfect Husband

“Sweet Karoline is a multi-layered mystery, where nothing is as it seems. The story grips you on page one and leads you through a maze of history, twisted relationships, and ultimately the darkness of the human mind.” —Liz Bugg, author of Oranges and Lemons

“In Sweet Karoline, Astolfo has created a daring hybrid mystery that combines elements of romance, history, and suspense in a carefully crafted story that keeps you guessing to the very end. Astolfo explores new boundaries as she extends her reach beyond the cozy mystery in this psychological exploration of the mind of a killer. A unique exploration of guilt and revenge.” —Michael J. McCann, author of The Fregoli Delusion

“The clever plot twists in Sweet Karoline will enrapture you from page one through the last paragraphs of this fast-paced modern mystery. Author Catherine Astolfo exhibits a strikingly perceptive gift for believable dialogue and rich character development. Her dry wit and colorful descriptions will have you howling in laughter at points, but in tears at others as she digs deep into the themes of guilt, race, and relationships. The powers of love and redemption are strong, but does the heart of an Ice Queen ever really melt? Enjoy the romp from Los Angeles, through Canada, to a priceless Italian rendezvous—all in the pages of Sweet Karoline, where long-buried secrets lie.” —Lisa Pell, award-winning author of Who’s Your Daddy, Baby?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Catherine Astolfo retired in 2002 after a very successful 34 years in education. Catherine received the Elementary Dufferin-Peel OECTA Award for Outstanding Service in 1998. She was also awarded Dufferin-Peel Catholic Elementary Principal of the Year in 2002 by the Catholic Principals Council of Ontario.

Catherine is a past President of Crime Writers of Canada and a Derrick Murdoch Award winner (2012). She was a Zonta Club 2012 Nominee for Women of Achievement.

Writing is Catherine’s passion. She can recall inventing fantasy stories for her classmates in Grade Three. Her short stories and poems have been published in a number of literary Canadian presses. In 2005, she won a Brampton Arts Award. Her short stories won the Bloody Words Short Story Award (second and first) in 2009 and 2010. She won the prestigious Arthur Ellis Best Short Crime Story Award in 2012. Catherine’s novels, The Emily Taylor Mysteries, as well as Sweet Karoline (July 14, 2013), are published by Imajin Books and are optioned for film by Sisbro & Co. Inc. Visit Catherine at www.catherineastolfo.com.

CONNECT WITH CATHERINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Catherine-Astolfo/426898307395107?ref=hl

Twitter: @cathyastolfo

Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/852970.Catherine_Astolfo

Google+: https://plus.google.com/116263954589831804470

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/castolfo

WEB SITE: www.catherineastolfo.com

BLOG: www.katywords.blogspot.com

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Filed under amreading, Catherine Astolfo, CHRISTMAS, Christmas Mystery, Christmas sale, CRIME, CRIME MYSTERY, CRIME THRILLER, DARK MYSTERY SERIES, MURDER MYSTERY, MURDER MYSTERY SERIES, MYSTERY, MYSTERY SERIES, mystery sleuth, PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE, PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER, SUSPENSE, SUSPENSE THRILLER

She risks her marriage, her job, and her life to solve a deadly crime #amreading #suspense #thriller @monicacollier

41ci+v-m9+L._SX331_BO1,204,203,200_ON SALE AT KINDLE FOR 99 CENTS!  

TODAY’S REVOLVING BOOK is the romantic suspense UNWRITTEN: THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE OF CAROLINE BLAINE Book 1 in a thrilling series by author MONICA COLLIER.

Kindle: http://amzn.to/29qluRc

ALSO:
Barnes & Noble: http://goo.gl/AFz7Cm
Chapters/Indigo: https://goo.gl/a8EEo0
Smashwords:  http://goo.gl/EyxdWA
PAPERBACK:
AMAZON Paperback: http://amzn.to/29Rtlaj
Books-A-Million:  http://goo.gl/XECP8L
 ABOUT THE BOOK:
Caroline Blaine had faithfully served her country in the Navy. She delayed her own happiness, sacrificing relationships in her life, until the time was right and everything came together. She knew the joys of a passionate marriage, as God intended, with fellow sailor, David Reese. Despite the desire for a new life with her husband, in North Carolina, present circumstances are colored by the past and must be addressed before their future is destroyed. Hang on to your seat as the decorated officers trade their almost civilian life back-in for their military career. One last great adventure calls before the joy of parenthood overtakes their lives, as it should be. Their life as a married couple is strengthened by those surrounding them as they settle into a new household, country, and positions within the Navy.
monicablogphotoABOUT AUTHOR MONICA COLLIER:
Monica is a graduate of Western Carolina University, in Cullowhee, North Carolina. She is a published author, ordained minister, and graphic designer.

In Monica’s words: “I’m southern. I’m a night owl. I like my coffee. I suffer CSA on most mornings (cover separation anxiety).”

CONNECT WITH AUTHOR MONICA COLLIER ONLINE:

WEBSITE: http://monicacollier.com/

FACEBOOKhttps://www.facebook.com/monicacollier

TWITTER: @monicacollier

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/monicacollier/

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Filed under Book Promotion, CRIME THRILLER, MYSTERY, ROMANTIC SUSPENSE, ROMANTIC THRILLER, SUSPENSE THRILLER

She has a psychic gift for finding killers. DEATH CROSSES THE FINISH LINE by DeAnn Smallwood (D.M. Woods) #amreading #suspense #thriller

DeathCrossesFinishLine_850-1TODAY’S REVOLVING BOOK is the suspense thriller DEATH CROSSES THE FINISH LINE by D.M. Woods (aka DeAnn Smallwood)

GET IT ON AMAZON: 
http://amzn.to/292amvw

PUBLISHER: SoulMate Publishing

WHAT IT’S ABOUT:
Carrie Preston has a puzzling and mysterious gift for sensing motive, desire and direction of a perpetrator and killer. Homicide Detective Tom Watts recognizes this gift and is not beyond exploiting it. Waking one midnight to the ringing telephone, Carrie knows the voice on the other end.

Tom begins his familiar plea, asking for her help in solving recent murders that appear to be connected. A pattern develops of brutal knifings in health clubs with the victims all women. What is the tie in? Carrie protests she doesn’t need Tom Watt’s brand of sickness, but she cannot help feeling the familiar draw both to solving the tragic killings and to Tom Watts.

Carrie and Tom chase clues throughout Colorado from Denver to the famous ski town of Aspen, stopping over to recoup and enjoy each other’s company in the world famous Hot Springs Pool at Glenwood Springs. Carrie and Tom may be getting closer as they follow the horrendous trail, the sites of brutal and gruesome deaths, but so is the killer. Closer to Carrie that is. Suspense mounts with each murder, each clue, and every sensation that Carrie follows toward revelation. In a parallel line, the growing tension between Tom and Carrie increases and builds. Both resolutions promise like terror-risk and danger. Will the killer change his pattern and decide to make Carrie his next “special treat, his bon-bon”?

STELLAR REVIEWS:

Carrie Preston has a gift she thinks most people have, but keeps locked within themselves. She’s happy with her life teaching seminars on how to unlock your inner potential. So why does she agree to help Lt. Tom Watts with a chilling serial killer? But the draw of the case – and the man himself, has her climbing out of her warm bed and heading to a grisly murder scene.

Lest I spoil the story for you, I won’t say more than get a copy of this book. D. M. Woods has constructed a riveting tale, with strong characters, and a fast paced plot. To say I couldn’t put the book down is a major understatement. Ms Woods has started a fantastic series, and I wait with bated breath for #2. Colleen Greene w/a Callie Hutton

ABOUT D.M. WOODS/DeANN SMALLWOOD:

DeAnn Smallwood, (D. M. Woods), lives in Colorado with her husband, Marvin and their two Yorkies, Stormy and Eli. These two mischief makers are her pride and joy. She has the support and encouragement from her best fan, her husband. DeAnn writes under the pen name of: D. M. Woods for her suspense/thrillers. She uses her real name for the historical romances she also writes. DeAnn is a native of Colorado, but lived several years in the beautiful states of Wyoming and Montana. She draws from this time for many of her novels. Her greatest pleasure next to writing is having her books read and enjoyed.

CONNECT WITH D.M./DeANN ONLINE:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/deann.smallwood.1?fref=ts

Website: http://www.deannsmallwood.com/

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Filed under amreading, Best-selling authors, Bestselling Authors, book reviews, CRIME, CRIME MYSTERY, CRIME THRILLER, DeAnn Smallwood, MURDER MYSTERY, MURDER MYSTERY SERIES, MYSTERY, MYSTERY SERIES, mystery sleuth, PSYCHIC, PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE, PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER, SUSPENSE, SUSPENSE THRILLER, THRILLER, THRILLER FICTION

They told her she killed her best friend. The truth is far more deadly. SWEET KAROLINE by Catherine Astolfo #amreading #mystery #murder

346e9c_d2800534c8038ba7e2fe550533c9b559-1Today’s Revolving Book is the psychological suspense novel SWEET KAROLINE by CATHERINE ASTOLFO. 

GET IT ON Amazon http://amzn.to/1oDhy5Y

WATCH THE TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/?gl=CA

READ AN EXCERPT: http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Karoline-Catherine-Astolfo/dp/192779207X

ABOUT THE BOOK:
If I knew what I know now, would I have searched so hard for the truth?

Anne Williams says she killed her best friend, Karoline. But did she? Or is there more to Karoline’s mysterious death than meets the eye?

Anne embarks on a compelling journey to discover her past and exposes an unusual history, horrific crimes and appalling betrayals. Through unexpected turns and revelations, Anne learns about love, family and who she really is. Can she survive the truth?

STELLAR REVIEWS:

“Astolfo’s wonderful first sentence in Sweet Karoline explodes on the page and resonates right to the end of this twisting examination of dangerous minds. Never have I encountered a narrative voice that alternates more deftly between alienating and enticing.” —Mel Bradshaw, author of Fire On The Runway

“A deliciously twisted story about the perplexing power of adult female relationships. By turns scathingly funny and darkly insightful, Sweet Karoline is a hedonistic journey with all the right ingredients: lust, betrayal, true love and mystery. Grab a glass of wine and have the bottle handy. A compelling read from the start through to the surprising end.” —Robin Spano, author of Death’s Last Run

“In Catherine Astolfo’s chilling new novel Sweet Karoline, things aren’t always as they seem. Anne, the multifaceted anti-heroine in this noir tale takes a fateful journey into her forgotten past, uncovering the painful roots of her childhood. While furrowing for answers, a mystery unfolds, truths swirl to the surface, a heinous murder occurs. Who’s the killer? Caught in a tangled web of greed, lies and deceit Anne must come to terms with her past, present and future, and the bleak realization that those we hold close may be the last ones to trust. Compelling, visually descriptive, deftly delivered…Catherine Astolfo’s got the goods!” —Douglas Wickard, author of A Perfect Husband

“Sweet Karoline is a multi-layered mystery, where nothing is as it seems. The story grips you on page one and leads you through a maze of history, twisted relationships, and ultimately the darkness of the human mind.” —Liz Bugg, author of Oranges and Lemons

“In Sweet Karoline, Astolfo has created a daring hybrid mystery that combines elements of romance, history, and suspense in a carefully crafted story that keeps you guessing to the very end. Astolfo explores new boundaries as she extends her reach beyond the cozy mystery in this psychological exploration of the mind of a killer. A unique exploration of guilt and revenge.” —Michael J. McCann, author of The Fregoli Delusion

“The clever plot twists in Sweet Karoline will enrapture you from page one through the last paragraphs of this fast-paced modern mystery. Author Catherine Astolfo exhibits a strikingly perceptive gift for believable dialogue and rich character development. Her dry wit and colorful descriptions will have you howling in laughter at points, but in tears at others as she digs deep into the themes of guilt, race, and relationships. The powers of love and redemption are strong, but does the heart of an Ice Queen ever really melt? Enjoy the romp from Los Angeles, through Canada, to a priceless Italian rendezvous—all in the pages of Sweet Karoline, where long-buried secrets lie.” —Lisa Pell, award-winning author of Who’s Your Daddy, Baby?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Catherine Astolfo retired in 2002 after a very successful 34 years in education. Catherine received the Elementary Dufferin-Peel OECTA Award for Outstanding Service in 1998. She was also awarded Dufferin-Peel Catholic Elementary Principal of the Year in 2002 by the Catholic Principals Council of Ontario.

Catherine is a past President of Crime Writers of Canada and a Derrick Murdoch Award winner (2012). She was a Zonta Club 2012 Nominee for Women of Achievement.

Writing is Catherine’s passion. She can recall inventing fantasy stories for her classmates in Grade Three. Her short stories and poems have been published in a number of literary Canadian presses. In 2005, she won a Brampton Arts Award. Her short stories won the Bloody Words Short Story Award (second and first) in 2009 and 2010. She won the prestigious Arthur Ellis Best Short Crime Story Award in 2012. Catherine’s novels, The Emily Taylor Mysteries, as well as Sweet Karoline (July 14, 2013), are published by Imajin Books and are optioned for film by Sisbro & Co. Inc. Visit Catherine at www.catherineastolfo.com.

CONNECT WITH CATHERINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Catherine-Astolfo/426898307395107?ref=hl

Twitter: @cathyastolfo

Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/852970.Catherine_Astolfo

Google+: https://plus.google.com/116263954589831804470

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/castolfo

WEB SITE: www.catherineastolfo.com

BLOG: www.katywords.blogspot.com

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Filed under amreading, Catherine Astolfo, COZY MYSTERY, COZY MYSTERY SERIES, CRIME, CRIME MYSTERY, CRIME THRILLER, DARK MYSTERY SERIES, DETECTIVE, MURDER MYSTERY, MURDER MYSTERY SERIES, MYSTERY, MYSTERY SERIES, SUSPENSE, SUSPENSE THRILLER, THRILLER

Is she a killer or a victim? #SweetKaroline #mystery #thriller #amreading #CatherineAstolfo

UnknownToday’s Revolving Book is the psychological suspense novel SWEET KAROLINE by CATHERINE ASTOLFO. Amazon http://amzn.to/1oDhy5Y

READ AN EXCERPT: http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Karoline-Catherine-Astolfo/dp/192779207X

WATCH THE TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/?gl=CA

ABOUT THE BOOK:
If I knew what I know now, would I have searched so hard for the truth?

Anne Williams says she killed her best friend, Karoline. But did she? Or is there more to Karoline’s mysterious death than meets the eye?

Anne embarks on a compelling journey to discover her past and exposes an unusual history, horrific crimes and appalling betrayals. Through unexpected turns and revelations, Anne learns about love, family and who she really is. Can she survive the truth?

STELLAR REVIEWS:

“Astolfo’s wonderful first sentence in Sweet Karoline explodes on the page and resonates right to the end of this twisting examination of dangerous minds. Never have I encountered a narrative voice that alternates more deftly between alienating and enticing.” —Mel Bradshaw, author of Fire On The Runway

“A deliciously twisted story about the perplexing power of adult female relationships. By turns scathingly funny and darkly insightful, Sweet Karoline is a hedonistic journey with all the right ingredients: lust, betrayal, true love and mystery. Grab a glass of wine and have the bottle handy. A compelling read from the start through to the surprising end.” —Robin Spano, author of Death’s Last Run

“In Catherine Astolfo’s chilling new novel Sweet Karoline, things aren’t always as they seem. Anne, the multifaceted anti-heroine in this noir tale takes a fateful journey into her forgotten past, uncovering the painful roots of her childhood. While furrowing for answers, a mystery unfolds, truths swirl to the surface, a heinous murder occurs. Who’s the killer? Caught in a tangled web of greed, lies and deceit Anne must come to terms with her past, present and future, and the bleak realization that those we hold close may be the last ones to trust. Compelling, visually descriptive, deftly delivered…Catherine Astolfo’s got the goods!” —Douglas Wickard, author of A Perfect Husband

“Sweet Karoline is a multi-layered mystery, where nothing is as it seems. The story grips you on page one and leads you through a maze of history, twisted relationships, and ultimately the darkness of the human mind.” —Liz Bugg, author of Oranges and Lemons

“In Sweet Karoline, Astolfo has created a daring hybrid mystery that combines elements of romance, history, and suspense in a carefully crafted story that keeps you guessing to the very end. Astolfo explores new boundaries as she extends her reach beyond the cozy mystery in this psychological exploration of the mind of a killer. A unique exploration of guilt and revenge.” —Michael J. McCann, author of The Fregoli Delusion

“The clever plot twists in Sweet Karoline will enrapture you from page one through the last paragraphs of this fast-paced modern mystery. Author Catherine Astolfo exhibits a strikingly perceptive gift for believable dialogue and rich character development. Her dry wit and colorful descriptions will have you howling in laughter at points, but in tears at others as she digs deep into the themes of guilt, race, and relationships. The powers of love and redemption are strong, but does the heart of an Ice Queen ever really melt? Enjoy the romp from Los Angeles, through Canada, to a priceless Italian rendezvous—all in the pages of Sweet Karoline, where long-buried secrets lie.” —Lisa Pell, award-winning author of Who’s Your Daddy, Baby?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Catherine Astolfo retired in 2002 after a very successful 34 years in education. Catherine received the Elementary Dufferin-Peel OECTA Award for Outstanding Service in 1998. She was also awarded Dufferin-Peel Catholic Elementary Principal of the Year in 2002 by the Catholic Principals Council of Ontario.

Catherine is a past President of Crime Writers of Canada and a Derrick Murdoch Award winner (2012). She was a Zonta Club 2012 Nominee for Women of Achievement.

Writing is Catherine’s passion. She can recall inventing fantasy stories for her classmates in Grade Three. Her short stories and poems have been published in a number of literary Canadian presses. In 2005, she won a Brampton Arts Award. Her short stories won the Bloody Words Short Story Award (second and first) in 2009 and 2010. She won the prestigious Arthur Ellis Best Short Crime Story Award in 2012. Catherine’s novels, The Emily Taylor Mysteries, as well as Sweet Karoline (July 14, 2013), are published by Imajin Books and are optioned for film by Sisbro & Co. Inc. Visit Catherine at www.catherineastolfo.com.

CONNECT WITH CATHERINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Catherine-Astolfo/426898307395107?ref=hl

Twitter: @cathyastolfo

Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/852970.Catherine_Astolfo

Google+: https://plus.google.com/116263954589831804470

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/castolfo

WEB SITE: www.catherineastolfo.com

BLOG: www.katywords.blogspot.com

Leave a comment

Filed under amreading, Catherine Astolfo, CRIME, CRIME MYSTERY, CRIME THRILLER, DARK MYSTERY SERIES, MURDER MYSTERY, MURDER MYSTERY SERIES, MYSTERY, MYSTERY SERIES, PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE, PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER, SUSPENSE, SUSPENSE THRILLER

The Very First Book I Ever Wrote by Alison Bruce (romantic suspense author)

Alison Bruce has an honours degree in history and philosophy, which has nothing to do with any regular job she’s held since. A liberal arts education did prepare her to be a writer, however. She penned her first novel during lectures while pretending to take notes.

In the interest of veracity, I didn’t pen that novel in either history or philosophy. In fact, it was before attending university and the program wasn’t liberal arts. Ryerson is a university now, but when I attended it was still a Polytechnical Institute. I was taking Home Economics because I didn’t make it into the journalism program.

51WZTkQj29L._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_The course was Nutrition. It was BOR-RING, not because I had no interest in food and food science, but because I already knew quite a bit of the material. Not all of it. In fact, I think the only reason I got a passing grade was because I had perfect attendance. My attendance was perfect because the class was a great opportunity to write.

I was in my science fiction phase. I had read everything by Robert Heinlein, Asimov’s Foundation series, Douglas Adam’s Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Frank Herbert’s Dune plus a selection of other classic SF books and even more humorous SF. I was also a Star Trek fan and had written some fanfic for the amusement of my friend and family.

The friend was my BF Nancy. The family was my sister Joanne. I did not have a wide audience at this stage of my career.

Inspiration came, as it still does sometimes, in dreams. All the day dreams and what if scenarios that bombarded my brain during the waking hours would scramble and sort themselves out into mini-movies in my dreams. Sometimes I was watching the scenes. Sometimes I was part of them. Sometimes I just knew stuff that had happened to fill in the gaps. Taken together, they made up plotlines with more holes than Swiss cheese. But they gave me a start.

I had plotted out this dream-inspired story start to finish, with notes for a potential sequel. I had about fifty pages written, in longhand, stored, with my plot and character information, in a clipboard folder. The day’s class notes were in there too, but I cleared them out every day to leave room for my novel. One day, between Nutrition and Chemistry (a class I didn’t dare write in) I left the whole kit-and-caboodle in the second floor washroom of the Quad.

I went back right after Chemistry but the clipboard was gone.

That was the end of that novel.

I don’t remember the details of the story. The loss was so traumatic. It had to do with a youth program that covered for the gathering of a team of special kids that would go into space. That much I remember because, a year later, I heard about the Canadian youth program Katimavik. It gathered young adults from ages 17 to 21 and sent them to different parts of Canada to engage in community projects. The spiel was almost exactly what I’d made up for the program in my novel.

Naturally I had to apply. Who knows, I might have been selected for a special program like my main character.

I wasn’t. However, I did start my second novel in Katimavik. It gave me something else to think about while doing a particularly disgusting job. I still haven’t finished that book–though it has been plotted out a dozen times or more–but that’s another story.

A Bodyguard to Remember by Alison BruceAlison Bruce is the author of  A Bodyguard to Remember, a romantic suspense with a light touch. This is Book 1 in the Men in Uniform Series for Lachesis Publishing.

You can get your copy of  A Bodyguard to Remember at Lachesis Publishing as well as amazon, Barnes and Noble, kobo, and iBooks.

You can connect with Alison on her website and on facebook and twitter.

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Filed under books and reading, Lachesis Publishing, romance books, ROMANCE FICTION, ROMANCE NOVEL, ROMANTIC SUSPENSE

What inspires your writing? By Lindy S. Hudis (mystery and suspence author)

Our guest blog today is by Lachesis Publishing author Lindy S. Hudis. Lindy has several titles with us, including the mystery Weekends, a women’s fiction with a dose of suspense City of Toys, and the erotica series Devon and Desiree which includes two installments so far: The S and M Club and The Mile High Club.

Our ongoing topic is: What inspires your writing? Welcome Lindy . . .

LindyAuthorNewI have always been a writer, even before I knew what writing even was. As a child, I used to make up stories in my head, almost like being in a movie. I was a pretty isolated child, so I made up stories, people, characters and situations. I had no idea that I was, in a sense, writing. So, as a budding novelist with a wild imagination, I began to write my imaginary characters and stories down. I wrote my first short story at age nine or ten, and it was a ghost story. Every Halloween, or any family gathering, I was the one who was summoned and appointed to tell the ghost stories. I loved making up worlds and characters, and mostly loved scaring my cousins! However, as I got older, I had no interest in writing horror. One of my literary idols, Stephen King, would be a very tough act to follow.

I am inspired by the world around me. I am inspired by people, how they are, and how I feel they should be. “Crashers” is a morality tale about desperate people caught up in the underworld of crime due to circumstances beyond their control. The story was inspired by an actual event that happened to me. The situation was hardly serious, but the other parties involved became very greedy and selfish, and I was inspired to write my novel. The characters, although fictitious, are edgy, gritty and live on the edge of danger for their own covetous personal gain. Not that I have a fantasy about being that, but I like to see offensive characters get their comeuppance sometimes, which does not happen in real life as much as it should.

WEEKENDS COVER 2I write in many different genres, as I get inspired by many different things. Weekends was inspired by a very handsome man I knew many years ago. It was more a romantic fantasy, not unlike my erotic short stories. I love a bit of danger as well, so I have thrown a bit of suspense into my romantic story. I guess I have always had a fantasy of being a police detective, or being swept away by a gorgeous, handsome cop.  I almost feel that writers live in a fantasy world of their liking, and create inspiration from that world. I can’t speak for all writer’s, but that is how I operate.

City-of-toys-linds-s-kudisMy novel, City of Toys was inspired by my life as an aspiring actress in Los Angeles. It was a difficult, yet exciting time. I experienced many trials and tribulations during my quest for fame and fortune, and it was enough to write a book, literally. The experience was a daunting one, yet very thrilling and rewarding to find that determination within myself to forge ahead in the frightening minefield that is Hollywood. I had the urge to share my experience, and I did. I have no regrets that I never won an Oscar or made it “big”, I feel regrets are a waste of time. However, I had incredible material for a novel.

I just let myself become inspired by many things: life, people, the world, California, New York, traveling to exotic places, romance, sex and adventure. All those interesting things that I fantasize about. I just feel the urge, and I sit down and create my imaginary world. It makes me feel creative, inspired and powerful. I can create my characters to have anything, do anything, and achieve anything I wish them to achieve, do or have. That feeling inspires me. Many other things inspire me – my family, my kids and my friends. I have very creative friends, and come from a very creative family, too. I feel best when I just sit back, relax and breathe, and let life inspire me. Only then, will the inspiration come.

Connect with Lindy on Facebook or Twitter.

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Filed under EROTICA, Lachesis Publishing, ROMANCE AUTHOR, ROMANTIC SUSPENSE, SUSPENSE, SUSPENSE THRILLER

SWEET KAROLINE by CATHERINE ASTOLFO (psychological suspense)

UnknownTuesday’s Revolving Book is the psychological suspense novel SWEET KAROLINE by CATHERINE ASTOLFO

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Karoline-ebook/dp/B00DUIDMKO

PUBLISHER IMAJIN BOOKS: http://www.imajinbooks.com/catherine-astolfo

READ AN EXCERPT: http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Karoline-Catherine-Astolfo/dp/192779207X

WATCH THE TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/?gl=CA

BOOK BLURB:
If I knew what I know now, would I have searched so hard for the truth?

Anne Williams says she killed her best friend, Karoline. But did she? Or is there more to Karoline’s mysterious death than meets the eye?

Anne embarks on a compelling journey to discover her past and exposes an unusual history, horrific crimes and appalling betrayals. Through unexpected turns and revelations, Anne learns about love, family and who she really is. Can she survive the truth?

REVIEWS:

“Astolfo’s wonderful first sentence in Sweet Karoline explodes on the page and resonates right to the end of this twisting examination of dangerous minds. Never have I encountered a narrative voice that alternates more deftly between alienating and enticing.” —Mel Bradshaw, author of Fire On The Runway

“A deliciously twisted story about the perplexing power of adult female relationships. By turns scathingly funny and darkly insightful, Sweet Karoline is a hedonistic journey with all the right ingredients: lust, betrayal, true love and mystery. Grab a glass of wine and have the bottle handy. A compelling read from the start through to the surprising end.” —Robin Spano, author of Death’s Last Run

“In Catherine Astolfo’s chilling new novel Sweet Karoline, things aren’t always as they seem. Anne, the multifaceted anti-heroine in this noir tale takes a fateful journey into her forgotten past, uncovering the painful roots of her childhood. While furrowing for answers, a mystery unfolds, truths swirl to the surface, a heinous murder occurs. Who’s the killer? Caught in a tangled web of greed, lies and deceit Anne must come to terms with her past, present and future, and the bleak realization that those we hold close may be the last ones to trust. Compelling, visually descriptive, deftly delivered…Catherine Astolfo’s got the goods!” —Douglas Wickard, author of A Perfect Husband

“Sweet Karoline is a multi-layered mystery, where nothing is as it seems. The story grips you on page one and leads you through a maze of history, twisted relationships, and ultimately the darkness of the human mind.” —Liz Bugg, author of Oranges and Lemons

“In Sweet Karoline, Astolfo has created a daring hybrid mystery that combines elements of romance, history, and suspense in a carefully crafted story that keeps you guessing to the very end. Astolfo explores new boundaries as she extends her reach beyond the cozy mystery in this psychological exploration of the mind of a killer. A unique exploration of guilt and revenge.” —Michael J. McCann, author of The Fregoli Delusion

“The clever plot twists in Sweet Karoline will enrapture you from page one through the last paragraphs of this fast-paced modern mystery. Author Catherine Astolfo exhibits a strikingly perceptive gift for believable dialogue and rich character development. Her dry wit and colorful descriptions will have you howling in laughter at points, but in tears at others as she digs deep into the themes of guilt, race, and relationships. The powers of love and redemption are strong, but does the heart of an Ice Queen ever really melt? Enjoy the romp from Los Angeles, through Canada, to a priceless Italian rendezvous—all in the pages of Sweet Karoline, where long-buried secrets lie.” —Lisa Pell, award-winning author of Who’s Your Daddy, Baby?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Catherine Astolfo retired in 2002 after a very successful 34 years in education. Catherine received the Elementary Dufferin-Peel OECTA Award for Outstanding Service in 1998. She was also awarded Dufferin-Peel Catholic Elementary Principal of the Year in 2002 by the Catholic Principals Council of Ontario.

Catherine is a past President of Crime Writers of Canada and a Derrick Murdoch Award winner (2012). She was a Zonta Club 2012 Nominee for Women of Achievement.

Writing is Catherine’s passion. She can recall inventing fantasy stories for her classmates in Grade Three. Her short stories and poems have been published in a number of literary Canadian presses. In 2005, she won a Brampton Arts Award. Her short stories won the Bloody Words Short Story Award (second and first) in 2009 and 2010. She won the prestigious Arthur Ellis Best Short Crime Story Award in 2012. Catherine’s novels, The Emily Taylor Mysteries, as well as Sweet Karoline (July 14, 2013), are published by Imajin Books and are optioned for film by Sisbro & Co. Inc. Visit Catherine at www.catherineastolfo.com.

CONNECT WITH CATHERINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Catherine-Astolfo/426898307395107?ref=hl

Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/852970.Catherine_Astolfo

Google+: https://plus.google.com/116263954589831804470

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/castolfo

WEB SITE: www.catherineastolfo.com

BLOG: www.katywords.blogspot.com

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Filed under FICTION, PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE, PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER, SUSPENSE, SUSPENSE THRILLER, THRILLER, THRILLER FICTION

Deadly Legacy by Alison Bruce (mystery/crime/thriller)

Bruce-DL-400Friday’s Fantastic Find is the mystery DEADLY LEGACY by ALISON BRUCE.

GENRE: Mystery, detective, noir-lite

PUBLISHER
Imajin Books http://www.imajinbooks.com/deadly-legacy/

AVAILABLE AT:
Amazon USA: http://www.amazon.com/Deadly-Carmedy-Garrett-Mystery-ebook/dp/B007TYPHYO

Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/Deadly-Carmedy-Garrett-Mystery-ebook/dp/B007TYPHYO

Amazon UK http://www.amazon.co.uk/Deadly-Carmedy-Garrett-Mystery-ebook/dp/B007TYPHYO

and other Amazon sites worldwide
Also available in paperback on Amazon.

SYNOPSIS:
In 2018, rookie detective, Kate Garrett lives in the shadow of her near-legendary father Joe. When Joe dies unexpectedly, he leaves Kate half interest in Garrett Investigations, his last case that ties to three murders, a partner she can’t stand, and a legacy to live up to.

Jake Carmedy has lost a partner, mentor and friend, but grief will come later. First, he has a case to solve, one that has detoured from a simple insurance case to a murder investigation. If that isn’t enough, Joe’s daughter seems to want to take her father’s place as his boss.

Each one is working on a different part of the puzzle. No matter how hard they try, Carmedy and Garrett can’t avoid each other…and they might be next on a killer’s list.

READ AN EXCERPT:
http://www.amazon.ca/Deadly-Carmedy-Garrett-Mystery-ebook/dp/B007TYPHYO

WATCH THE BOOK TRAILER:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slHkbyko1_M

REVIEWS:
5.0 out of 5 stars
By Gail M Baugniet, Author of For Every Action
Deadly Legacy is an honest to goodness Mystery patterned after early mystery writers Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Edgar Allan Poe. The story, however, is set on 21st century Canadian soil. http://tinyurl.com/bkrzwcr

Intriguing first episode of a new mystery series
By Corinne H. Smith TOP 1000 REVIEWERVINE™ VOICE
Kate Garrett works as a police detective in a city in southwestern Ontario. She’s in the midst of a drug-related homicide investigation when she gets the worst news possible: her father Joe has been hit by a car and killed. A retired police officer himself, Joe had since turned to running his own private investigation service. Was it his most recent case that put him in harm’s way? Or was this merely a tragic accident? http://tinyurl.com/afgvtmo

5.0 out of 5 stars The first book of a new series. 2 Jan 2013
By AnneDon
It’s a very enjoyable book, with excellent dialogue and great characters. I look forward to the next in the series.
http://tinyurl.com/amcp3bx

5.0 out of 5 stars Compelling read! July 10 2012
By DIC
Alison Bruce has concocted a complex and very interesting plot and delivered it in a fast-paced story with well-developed and realistic characterization. I look forward to the next installment in this series.
http://tinyurl.com/as44n4a

CONNECT WITH ALISON ONLINE:
https://www.facebook.com/alisonbruce.books
https://twitter.com/alisonebruce

WEB SITE: http://www.alisonbruce.ca/

BLOG: http://alisonebruce.blogspot.ca/

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Filed under Alison Bruce, Books, CRIME, FUTURISTIC, MYSTERY, MYSTERY SERIES, PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE, PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER, ROMANTIC ELEMENTS, ROMANTIC SUSPENSE, ROMANTIC THRILLER, THRILLER, THRILLER FICTION