Sally’s Cafe and Bookstore – Author Update – Sue Coletta, Janice Spina and Amy M. Reade

Posted on July 10, 2017 by Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.

Welcome to the first of the updates this week with two new books on the schelves and a discounted book offer. First a new release by the crime thriller writer Sue Coletta with the Mayhem Series crossover novella – Special Forces: Operation Alpha: Hacked.

About the book

Shawnee Daniels wrongly assumes she’s being punished for innocently hacking the Police Chief’s photos. Okay, maybe not-so-innocently, but someone had to expose him for the dog that he is. When she arrives at the mandatory computer seminar, the FBI enlists her help in stopping a serial killer who’s remotely hacking vehicles while the owners are behind the wheel.

Why he’s targeted these people remains a mystery. None of the victims frequent the same places, some don’t even live in the same state. The only commonality is they all drive Fords.

When Detective Levaughn Samuels is taken hostage—his life teetering on the edge of a high-speed chase—there’s nothing Shawnee won’t do to save him, no line she won’t cross. And when her BFF shows up unannounced with problems of her own, she only complicates matters.

Can Shawnee stop the killer before she loses the only man she’s ever loved? Or will the ride of his life end in death?

One of the early reviews for the book

Hacked – An honest, no holds barred review. Miss it miss out. By Kirsty Southwell on July 8, 2017

I honestly thought after reading the description of this book that I wouldn’t understand the technicalities of it and that might put me off. But once the journey began I was gripped from start to finish. The explanations of how the hacks were being performed simply blended in with the storyline. I think I read this book most of the time with my heart in mouth and my blood pumping at the same speed that the cars were travelling at. Will Shawnee save her love in time, before he too flies over a cliff or crashes into a tree? Will the hacker be caught to prevent more of these terrifying murders…….the reveal of who the hacker is will have your jaw hitting the floor and your heart melting at the same time.
I cannot fault Sues work. Her attention to detail, how she crafts each character into an imaginable reality, people we care about!

So, if you want a ride on the seat of your pants read, heart stopping, fear inducing as well as tear inducing. This the one for you. I can assure you, if this is the first book you’ve read by this author you will want to read more. This is a novella, but her novels are just as gripping. So get your car keys and rev up for this 5 star pageturner!

Read the other reviews and buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Forces-Operation-HACKED-Novella-ebook/dp/B073RSR5JD

Also by Sue Coletta

Read all the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/Sue-Coletta/e/B015OYK5HO

Read more reviews and follow Sue on Goodreads : https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14078869.Sue_Coletta

Connect to Sue Coletta via her website/blog: www.suecoletta.com

The next new book is prolific children’s books and mystery writer Janice Spina... the fifth case for Davey & Derek Junior Detectives with the Case of the Sad Mischievous Ghost.

About the book

Twins Davey and Derek Donato, junior detectives by their own design, are enlisted by two new characters, Abby Rizzo and her cousin Holly, sixth graders, to assist them in finding and capturing the spooky beings that haunt their house.

When the boys visit Abby’s house they discover that this old Victorian house holds many secrets and shocking revelations for all. This house appears to be haunted by multiple stubborn specters. When one of the apparitions appears to Abby and Holly and presents them with two books that reveal the identity of one of the specters, the girls feel compelled to help the ghosts find their way to the other side. Once the girls share this new information with the twins, Davey and Derek, find that they may need the assistance of their Great Aunt Gigi to handle these mischievous phantoms.

Buy the new Junior Detectives adventure: https://www.amazon.com/Mischievous-Ghost-Davey-Junior-Detectives-ebook/dp/B072QBJ7LC

A selection of other books by Janice Spina.

The latest review for Janice’s short story collection An Angel Among Us.

Coincidence, fate or maybe an intervention from the other side? By P.S. Winn on June 23, 2017

This is a collection of several short stories that bring heart touching messages to all of us. I found the first story the most beautiful, but all of the stories will bring a smile of tenderness and a warm feeling to your heart. The author did a great job bringing together amazing short stories that are a pleasure to read.

Discover all of Janice Spina’s books, read the reviews and buy:https://www.amazon.com/Janice-Spina/e/B00HNET4HG

Find more reviews and follow Janice on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7222888.Janice_Spina

Connect to Janice via her website: https://jemsbooks.wordpress.com

Finally Amy M. Reade is offering her book House of the Hanging Jade for just 99c until the end of the month.

About the book

A dark presence had invaded the Jorgensens’ house. On a spectacular bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, something evil is watching and waiting . . .

Tired of the cold winters in Washington, D.C. and disturbed by her increasingly obsessive boyfriend, Kailani Kanaka savors her move back to her native Big Island of Hawaii. She also finds a new job as personal chef for the Jorgensen family. The gentle caress of the Hawaiian trade winds, the soft sigh of the swaying palm trees, and the stunning blue waters of the Pacific lull her into a sense of calm at the House of Hanging Jade–an idyll that quickly fades as it becomes apparent that dark secrets lurk within her new home. Furtive whispers in the night, a terrifying shark attack, and the discovery of a dead body leave Kailani shaken and afraid. But it’s the unexpected appearance of her ex-boyfriend, tracking her every move and demanding she return to him, that has her fearing for her life

Two of the most recent reviews for the book

An enjoyable read with a wonderful setting By Carrie on February 18, 2017

I always enjoy a lighter read when I travel, and this fit the bill. Great setting of Hawaii, yummy scenes about food, and enough mystery to keep me guessing. I enjoyed the fluent writing style and the wonderful descriptions, particularly of the Hawaiian landscape and the culinary delights. There are heavier themes of marital strife, adultery, and stalking though, so the book has ample literary heft. Made my plane ride fly by.

The book’s dramatic tension builds deliciously By Kindle Customer on January 19, 2017

The author captures the beautiful locale of the book, Kohala on the Island of Hawaii, with her crystalline prose and lovingly articulated imagery. Though she lives in New Jersey, she writes convincingly in the first person as a young Polynesian woman working as a personal chef. Her descriptions of the local, Asian fusion cuisine are so authentic, I can practically taste items on the menu. The book’s dramatic tension builds deliciously as well. This book is fun to read while portraying issues of fidelity and violence in personal relationships. I highly recommend it.

Download your copy at the offer price of 99c: https://www.amazon.com/House-Hanging-Jade-Amy-Reade/dp/1601835590

Also by Amy M. Reade

Read all the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/Amy-M.-Reade/e/B00LX6ASF2

Follow Amy on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8189243.Amy_M_Reade

Find out more about Amy Reade and connect via her website: www.amymreade.com

If you would like to join Amy, Janice and Sue on the shelves of the Bookstore here is the link: https://smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com/sallys-cafe-and-bookstore/

Sally’s Cafe and Bookstore Update – Amy M. Reade and C.S. Boyack

Posted on June 30, 2017 by Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.

Welcome to the Friday edition of the Cafe Update and the first author is Amy M. Reade who has an offer on one of her books at the moment… The House on Candlewick Lane is just 99c until July 2nd.

About The House on Candlewick Lane

Art historian Dr. Greer Dobbins thought her ex-husband, Neill, had his gambling addiction under control. But in fact he was spiraling deeper and deeper into debt. When a group of shady lenders threatens to harm the divorced couple’s five-year-old daughter if he doesn’t pay up, a desperate Neill abducts the girl and flees to his native Scotland. Though the trail seems cold, Greer refuses to give up and embarks on a frantic search through the medieval alleys of Edinburgh—a city as beguiling as it is dangerous. But as the nightmare thickens with cryptic messages and a mysterious attack, Greer herself will become a target, along with everyone she holds dear.

Two of the latest reviews for the book

A Fullfilling Pageturner By P. Wight on June 25, 2017

I’ve read and enjoyed several of Amy Reade’s books, and The House on Candlewick Lane is my favorite one yet. I hesitated at first; I like books of suspense but get fearful of those that include child abductions. But Reade’s book focuses more on the parent involved with the search for her child, who is kidnapped, yes, but by an ex-husband who loves his daughter yet takes her for some unknown reason. The main character, Greer, is well-developed as a fearful loving mom who searches desperately for her child. The search leads her to Edinburgh, where the ex-husband was raised, and the setting is perfect for this fast-moving mystery/thriller and, dare I say, love story. A fulfilling page-turner that I’m so glad I read.

Page-Turning Suspense! By Allison Chase on June 19, 2017

When Greer Dobbins’s daughter is kidnapped by her estranged husband, Greer stops at nothing to get her back, even traveling halfway across the world to find her. I loved the Scottish setting, which brought back memories of my own trip there years ago, and was excited to read this book for that reason alone, but it was the nonstop suspense that kept me turning pages all weekend long. With a cast of interesting and well-developed characters, the author had me suspecting just about everyone, and she did a fabulous job of keeping me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Greer’s fears for kidnapped daughter are palpable, and the danger she herself faces feels real and immediate. I almost felt as though I was in Greer’s place, living out her nightmare, but also rejoicing along with her as well. So well done!

Read all the reviews and buy the book for 99c: https://www.amazon.com/House-Candlewick-Lane-Malice-Novel-ebook/dp/B01FBZXR3K

More reviews on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33228655-the-house-on-candlewick-lane

Also by Amy M. Reade

Read all the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/Amy-M.-Reade/e/B00LX6ASF2

Follow Amy on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8189243.Amy_M_Reade

The next author with a recent review is C.S. Boyack for his YA Fantasy book Will O’ the Wisp.

About the book

There is something evil up Bergamot Holler, and it’s been targeting the Hall family for generations.

Patty Hall is fifteen years old. She loves stargazing, science fiction, and all things related to space exploration. This leaves her perfectly prepared for the wrong problem.

Patty is afraid her mother will send her to a care facility if she tells her what she’s seen. If she doesn’t figure things out soon, she’s going to join her father in the Hall family cemetery plot.

Patty has to come to grips with her own physical handicap, face the wilderness, and an ancient evil all alone if she’s going to survive.

Will O’ the Wisp is suitable for young adults. It involves elements of suspense, and is set in the mid 1970s.
One of the recent reviews for the book

Another Great Book from C.S. Boyack By Author Don Massenzio on June 3, 2017

It’s another mashup of genres in Will O’ the Wisp. If I were to take To Kill a Mockingbird (Harper Lee), The Body or It (Stephen King), Any Harry Potter book, and a script from the TV show Stranger Things and throw them in a blender, it would make the smoothie that is this book and it would be a very tasty smoothy.

Boyack does an excellent job of telling the story from the point of view of Patty, a teenage girl, making it much more believable than other well-known authors that have attempted to write from the young adult perspective (John Grisham, Harlan Coben).

His main character is flawed, yet displays an enviable strength that ultimately has her taking a life and death situation into her own hands and dealing with it.

I would highly recommend this book if you enjoy any of the previously mentioned authors in my mashup description. The book has a classic storytelling feel with great period writing from the 1970s and a story that appeals to contemporary tastes. Another great read from C.S. Boyack.

Read all the reviews and buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Will-Wisp-C-S-Boyack-ebook/dp/B00UPH6BNS

Also by C.S. Boyack

Read all the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/C.-S.-Boyack/e/B00ILXBXUY

Read more reviews and follow C.S. Boyack on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9841203.C_S_Boyack

Connect with Craig via his blog: http://coldhandboyack.wordpress.com

Thanks for dropping by today and your sharing of the post is much appreciated… Sally

Sally’s Cafe and Bookstore Author Update – Amy M. Reade, S.C. Richmond and Regina Puckett

Posted on April 17, 2017 by Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.

Welcome to the first of the author updates this week. This is an opportunity for authors on the shelves to share their news about great reviews, offers on their books and new releases. I do check on every author regularly but it does help if you drop me an email to keep me updated.. Help me showcase your work.. sally.cronin@moyhill.com

The first author today is Amy M. Reade and her recently released book The House on Candlewick Lane (A Malice Novel) published in February 2017 and already receiving excellent reviews.

About the book

But as the nightmare thickens with cryptic messages and a mysterious attack, Greer herself will become a target, along with everyone she holds dear.

If ever a book deserved five stars By Patricia Gligor on February 28, 2017

The House on Candlewick Lane” by Amy M. Reade immediately drew me in and made me wish I could read it cover to cover in one sitting. I really can’t say enough good things about the book. The characters are unique and well developed and I quickly came to care about them, especially the main character, Greer. The plot was intricate and kept me guessing to the very end. And the author’s descriptions of the setting in Scotland made me want to visit there.

If ever a book deserved five stars, this is it! I highly recommend “The House on Candlewick Lane.”

A great read! By New York Army Mom on February 7, 2017

The House On Candlewick Lane by Amy M Reade. Set in Scotland, Amy gives her reader a great look at the language and food of Scotland. One of my favorite things about Amy’s writing is the way she describes everything; From the characters, to the setting, to the plot! The reader gets to go along for the ride with the characters, in the streets and even in the kitchen! In addition, every chapter ends with a comment that pushes you on to the next chapter! This is an author you will want to get to know! And you will definitely get to do so in this story! She weaves herself through the pages beautifully.

Don’t stop at the end, there’s a glossary defining the many Scottish terms and teasers for her other books! And if you want to get to know Amy better click the link to the latest news about Amy M. Reade. Very Interesting! I don’t want to give anything away, I will just say that I would like to see this house on Candlewick Lane! And the cover… beautiful!

Read the reviews and buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/House-Candlewick-Lane-Malice-Novel-ebook/dp/B01FBZXR3K

Also by Amy M. Reade

Secrets of Hallstead House has over 370 reviews and the other books are also very well regarded. Buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/Amy-M.-Reade/e/B00LX6ASF2

Find out more about Amy Reade and connect via her website: www.amymreade.com

Another recent release at the end of the year is a collection of short stories In The Spotlight and other Stories by S.C. Richmond.

About the collection

A collection of short stories about human nature, covering all genres. Love, revenge, horror, magic, loneliness and imagination.

The Reviews

In the Spotlight & Other Stories by S C Richmond By Alysa on 2 Jan. 2017

In the Spotlight & Other Stories is a foray into short story writing by S C Richmond. I enjoyed them immensely, in just one sitting. The plots twist and turn, and the genres are different enough from each other to make the book exciting to any fiction reader.
I’m hoping there will be more anthologies to follow from this up and coming author, although I loved both of her full length novels, this adds spice with variety to her repertoire.
It seems the author can’t go wrong. I would recommend this (and her other works) to any reader. A fantastic read.

Fabulous By Glastonburypixi on 8 Feb. 2017

Brilliantly written short stories each one sending the reader through a variety of emotions and ending with a twist. I have read ‘The Community’ and ‘Pictures of deceit’ also by the very talented SC Richmond and I can honestly say they are amongst the few books that I would definitely read again. I’m very much looking forward to the next novel

Buy the collection: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Spotlight-Other-Stories-S-Richmond-ebook/dp/B01N6MO2V

Also by S.C. Richmond

Read the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/S-C-Richmond/e/B01C6Q0O1K

Find out about S.C. Richmond and connect via her blog: https://scrichmondblog.wordpress.com

The last update for the day is for author Regina Puckett and her book I Close My Eyes released earlier this year.

About the book

The last thing The Duke of Greystone wants is a wife, until The Lady Jane Blackmore seeks out his quiet corner of Earl Braxton’s ballroom. But there she stands, attempting to shut out the rest of the world by simply closing her eyes, but the duke understands better than most that life is never that simple.

The last thing Jane wants is a husband, until she opens her eyes to find the scarred and much too handsome stranger secluded in her chosen quiet corner. Why can’t the obstinate man understand she just needs a brief moment of solitude before returning to face her tormentors? But no matter how many times she tells him to go away, he remains. So is it her fault that her father misunderstands the young duke’s intentions?

Whilst marriage isn’t on Phillip—as she learns the duke is called—or Jane’s mind, when society’s trials and tribulations come, they soon become each other’s touchstone, and by it discover that joy is tantalisingly within their grasp, although others seem intent on thwarting their every wish.

One of the most recent reviews

Reluctant Duke Finds His Duchess By Marion Marchetto, author of The Bridgewater Chronicles on April 6, 2017

Take one duke who is reluctant to marry and continue his ducal line; add another duke’s daughter whose every social appearance ends in disaster due to her seeming clumsiness. Place both in a quiet corner of the Earl of Braxton’s ballroom where the lady (Jane Blackmore) seeks to shield her ruined gown behind some large potted ferns unaware that she is not alone. She closes her eyes to escape the venue and mentally retreats to the one place she loves above all others – a cottage by the sea. Her brief respite is interrupted by the Duke of Greystone who is captivated by the winsome miss. Now add in a jealous young woman and a vengeful stepmother and you have a terrific romantic story awaiting your reading pleasure.

I Close My Eyes follows the usual storyline of happiness after overcoming personal trials and tribulations. The characters are endearing or vengeful, depending on their role, and the ending is one you won’t want to miss.

Author Regina Puckett wastes little time on superfluous description as her story is concisely woven. If you enjoy historical romance, don’t miss this one!

Read all the reviews and buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Close-My-Eyes-Regina-Puckett-ebook/dp/B01MUCMBR

A selection of books by Regina Puckett.

Discover all the books, read the reviews and buy the books: http://www.amazon.com/Regina-Puckett/e/B004S3ORSG

Connect to Regina via her blog: https://reginapuckett.wordpress.com

Thank you for dropping by today and it would be great if you could share these author updates with your connections. Thanks Sally

Don’t forget if you are in the Bookstore you can enjoy regular updates about new releases, great reviews and offers.

Sally’s Cafe and Bookstore – Author Update – Amy M. Reade, Olga Núñez Miret and Gigi Sedlemayer.

Posted on February 10, 2017 by Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.

Welcome to Friday’s Cafe and Bookstore update and today three authors who are either celebrating a new release or terrific reviews. Amy M. Reade, Olga Núñez Miret and Gigi Sedlemayer.

USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and gothic women’s fiction Amy Reade has just released The House on Candlewick Lane, the first book in the Malice series, which currently consists of three books. Each book has a different main character, but you’ll find some characters that drop in throughout the series (some more than others). The second book in the series is called Highland Peril and will be out in the fall. The third book, with a working title of Death Comes to Thistlecross, will be out next year.

About The House on Candlewick Lane

It is every parent’s worst nightmare. Greer Dobbins’ daughter has been kidnapped—and spirited across the Atlantic to a hiding place in Scotland. Greer will do anything to find her, but the streets of Edinburgh hide a thousand secrets—including some she’d rather not face. Art historian Dr. Greer Dobbins thought her ex-husband, Neill, had his gambling addiction under control. But in fact he was spiraling deeper and deeper into debt.

When a group of shady lenders threatens to harm the divorced couple’s five-year-old daughter if he doesn’t pay up, a desperate Neill abducts the girl and flees to his native Scotland. Though the trail seems cold, Greer refuses to give up and embarks on a frantic search through the medieval alleys of Edinburgh—a city as beguiling as it is dangerous. But as the nightmare thickens with cryptic messages and a mysterious attack, Greer herself will become a target, along with everyone she holds dear.

Two of the early reviews

Incredible book that captures you from the start! By Kathleen Charon on February 7, 2017

I am a huge fan of Ms. Reade’s books! I enjoy her narrative style and her descriptions pull me into the world that her characters inhabit. This book is every parent’s nightmare and chronicles Greer’s search for her missing daughter. I was so caught up in the story that I couldn’t put it down. Although I read an advanced copy, I had to purchase it because I enjoyed it so much. Don’t start until you have the time to read straight through! It will captivate you. I cannot wait for her next book!

A great read! By New York Army Mom on February 7, 2017

Read all the reviews and buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/House-Candlewick-Lane-Malice-Novel-ebook/dp/B01FBZXR3K

Also by Amy M. Reade

Read all the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/Amy-M.-Reade/e/B00LX6ASF2

Connect to Amy via her website: www.amymreade.com

Olga Nunez Miret has received a wonderful review from Christoph Fischer for her latest book Escaping Psychiatry 2. The Case of the Swapped Bodies.

About Escaping Psychiatry 2. The Case of the Swapped Bodies

A woman shot dead. No enemies, no motive, only a story about how she swapped bodies with another woman found on her computer. The other woman in the story, the owner of the swapped body, goes into labour and won’t talk.

When FBI Agent Dave Dean asks psychiatrist/writer Mary Miller for her assistance, she doesn’t know that The Case of the Swapped Bodies is not the only mystery in Port Haven. A hit and run, an armed robbery gone wrong and questions about family traditions, priorities and legacies come into play and complicate matters. The line between fact and fiction is more tenuous than anybody realised and suspense is on the menu.

This is the third book in the Escaping Psychiatry series and it poses new challenges for Mary Miller. And not all the challenges are professional ones. How do you carry on when you’ve survived the unthinkable?

The review from Christoph Fischer for the book

“Escaping Psychiatry 2. The Case of the Swapped Bodies” by Olga Núñez Miret was a real treat and almost a surprise. I like Olga’s sharp and psychologically charged writing the best and knew this would be good.I was not prepared, however, for the extremely clever plot.

At first there is the confusion of a woman waking up in a different body and in a different life. Then she establishes contact with the woman currently in her own body. That in itself is a great premise and the conversation between the trapped women would have been more than enough for one successful book.

Olga doesn’t stop there but now introduces more complexity as the case is being handled by both, the police, and our series heroine, psychiatrist Mary.Despite a heavy workload I couldn’t resist the book and kept reading at every opportunity to get to the bottom of this psychological thriller. My curiosity got the better of me and all I can say is that the denouement doesn’t let you down.

A clever idea, perfectly executed with sharp writing, excellent characters and a lot going for it. Maybe the author’s best so far. Highly recommended.

https://writerchristophfischer.wordpress.com/2017/02/06/review-escaping-psychiatry-2-the-case-of-the-swapped-bodies-by-olga-nunez-miret/

Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Escaping-Psychiatry-Case-Swapped-Bodies-ebook/dp/B01NBGH9G1

A selection of books by Olga Núñez Miret

Discover all the books,read the reviews and buy: https://www.amazon.com/Olga-Núñez-Miret/e/B009UC58G0

Connect to Olga via her website: http://www.authortranslatorolga.com

Gigi Sedlmayer has received a new review for Come Fly with Me the first book in the Talon Series from Akrum Menacker.

About Come Fly with Me.

Talon, come fly with me is a delightful middle grade story set in Peru with a family of condors and missionary Australians.

Is it possible for condors to understand humans?

Suspend your beliefs and watch how an under-size girl, Matica, finds friends with a family of condors, after being rejected by the Indians because of her size.

There are beautiful descriptions of the flight of the condors, and more so when Talon is cared for by Matica. The language suits this age group and does not talk down to the reader.

This is a great inspirational story for everyone. It will lift you up and make you believe in adventures, friendships, acceptance in a whole new light.

Come and take the journey that is called Matica’s life. It is filled with rejections, heartbreaks, growth and loneliness, but through it all, it will make you feel stronger.
Talon, Come Fly With Me is the first book in this series and you will be blown away!!!
In a world full of pain this story gives ones hope

Akrum Menacker’s review

Have you ever felt like you would never fit in? Of course you have, we all have at one point or another. But for some this is not simply being awkward socially, but much more. For 10 year old Matica, the problem is a physical one. She is not growing. Despite her age and having a younger brother, Matica has the body of a much younger child which has made her life a real challenge as far as making any friends in the little village in Peru where her parents are missionaries trying to help the local tribe. The tribe finds Matica’s situation strange and tend not to associate with her, making her more lonely than ever.

However, Matica does have knack for making friends. In this case its a pair of condors, which seems to fascinate the local villagers. But they are even more surprised when the bond between the undersized girl and the huge birds becomes so strong that when their egg is threatened by poachers they allow her to watch over and care for it. Soon the egg hatches and Talon is born. The villagers are more impressed than ever by the young girl as she helps raise the young condor, becoming an expert on the birds and soon Matica finds herself no longer the source of curious glances but a bit of a celebrity. But her true love for family and her condors never takes a backseat to this new status. Her dedication to both her families is unwavering and continues to grow just as quickly as Talon who is soon big enough and strong enough to take flight. But is he powerful enough to grant Matica’s most secret wish?

Aimed at preteens, this is a story that can be enjoyed by any age. As I said at the beginning of this review, we’ve all felt out of place and thought we’d never find where we truly belong. Matica’s journey is a tale that everyone can relate to. Sometimes its not finding where YOU fit in, but making a place for yourself in the world and watch it start swarming towards you.

This is such a wonderful tale, I have not problem giving it the 5-Star rating it deserves. I’m even more delighted to know that this is only the first installment. As of the writing of this review, there are four more books in the series. Needless to say, I’ll be adding them to my library and more reviews will come with time.

And now I will take my hat off to the author Gigi Sedlmayer, may she, Talon, Matica and the rest of this fine cast soar high and far for many years to come.
https://akrummenacker.wordpress.com/2017/02/09/my-review-of-talon-come-fly-with-me/

Read all the reviews and buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Talon-Come-Fly-Gigi-Sedlmayer-ebook/dp/B00J2643PG

Also by Gigi Sedlmayer

Read all the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/Gigi-Sedlmayer/e/B003U8G4WC

Connect to Gigi via her website: http://gigised.com/

If you are in my virtual Cafe and Bookstore you can enjoy regular updates on your new books and reviews.

If you are not yet in the bookstore.. Why not?

Full details and the authors on the shelves is here:

https://smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com/sallys-cafe-and-bookstore/

Thank you for dropping in and it would be great if you could spread the word about these outstanding authors.. thanks Sally

Smorgasbord Open House – USA Today Bestselling Author – Amy M. Reade.

Posted on May 15, 2016 by Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.

My guest today, USA Today Bestselling author Amy M. Reade, writes women’s contemporary and gothic fiction. Her books have been compared to authors such as Daphne du Maurier, Phyllis Whitney, and Victoria Holt. Amy’s novels feature vivid descriptions of exotic and fascinating locations, such as the Thousand Islands region of New York State, Charleston, South Carolina, and the Big Island of Hawaii.

A former attorney, Amy found that writing was her true calling, and is currently working on a new project, a series set in Edinburgh, Scotland. She loves cooking, reading, and travel. You can visit her website, http://www.amymreade.com where, in addition to information about her books and appearances, you will find a contact form, suggested playlists to go along with her novels, and notes and recommendations on wines.

Amy’s latest book was published in late April and is already receiving terrific reviews.

About House of the Hanging Jade
A dark presence had invaded the Jorgensens’ house. On a spectacular bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, something evil is watching and waiting . . .

A stunning thriller! By Crystal Gomez on April 27, 2016 Format: Kindle Edition

This was an absolutely stunning thriller! With a captivating storyline, perfect dialogue and extremely complex characters, I was eagerly absorbed into reading this story late into the night. There were tons of twists and turns being revealed throughout the whole story, and it was a blast trying to figure out the culprit in the book. The author’s knowledge and descriptions of all the different food also definitely had me devouring this book as quick as I could! I absolutely enjoyed reading this thrilling book and can’t wait to see what else the author has written!
*I received a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion!

Other Books by Amy Reade

One of the great reviews for the book
Outstanding! Could not put it down! By Kathleen Charon on April 29, 2015

I have just finished the Ghosts of Peppernell Manor and literally could not put it down! It is exactly the type of book that I love…..a little bit gothic with the old house and it’s secrets, mysterious death and clean romance. I got exactly what I expected and I enjoyed every minute of escape that this book gave me. I was not able to solve the mystery before the reveal so that was enjoyable for me as well. Overall, a fantastic read!

A review for Hallstead house

This reminded me quite a bit of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca By Gina Kelly on July 17, 2014

This reminded me quite a bit of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca in that it starts with a young girl in a large house with some dark secrets. Macy is a live-in nurse for an elderly woman, but as soon as she gets to the secluded house, she finds a cold welcome and the distinct feeling she isn’t wanted. I found the mystery to be a good one. Being alone on an island limited the number of people who could be behind the bad deeds, but I still didn’t guess the culprit or motive until the very end. The setting was also very well done. What put me off a bit was the extensive exposition and backstory. Some of it felt like info dump and slowed things down considerably. If the side stories had been trimmed down, I would have enjoyed this mystery even more.

Buy all the books.
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Amy-M.-Reade/e/B00LX6ASF2
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/amy+m+reade?_requestid=239322
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/search?Query=Amy%20M.%20Reade%20&ac=1&acp=amy%20m
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/author/amy-m.-reade/id972561593?mt=11
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/author?id=Amy+M.+Reade
Kensington Publishing: http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/author.aspx/29480
Indie Bound: http://www.indiebound.org/

The Blogger
Amy has a terrific blog- https://amreade.wordpress.com/ – and you will find interviews, guest blogs, book recommendations, recipes and articles on wine. Later on in the post you will find a delicious recipe that will give you a good idea of the food ideas you will find on the blog.

Here is a link to one of her recent author interviews with Phyllis Moore
https://amreade.wordpress.com/2016/03/22/meet-phyllis-moore/

I am now going to hand over to Amy to find out more about her life and work through the questions she has chosen to answer.

Welcome Amy and who would you like to meet from the past who you would like to have a conversation with. What would you tell them about their behaviour that you admired or disapproved of?

If I could meet anyone from the past, I would choose Zelda Fitzgerald, wife of author F. Scott Fitzgerald.

I would want to know all about living in Paris in the early twentieth century- where she liked to go for fun, where she lived, which restaurants she liked to visit, how people dressed.

I would also ask her about her own writing, since as I understand it she was a very good writer whose work was always considered less important than that of her husband.

I’d also want to know about all her friends in Paris- I’d ask about Ernest and Hadley Hemingway, Picasso, Gertrude Stein and, of course, F. Scott.

What I know about Zelda Fitzgerald comes, of course, from the things I’ve read about her. And from that basis of knowledge, I’ve learned that she wasn’t too different from any other person, living or dead. She had her problems, just like everyone else. And one of her problems was the constant struggle to maintain her “self.” I would tell her that I admire her determination and desire to forge and keep her own identity despite living in the overarching shadows of her husband and their friends. I would tell her that her writing and her dancing were good for her. I would tell her that someday doctors would find effective treatments for the mental illnesses she faced and that I’m sorry she had to spend so much of her life fighting her own demons.

Which is your favourite leisure pastime?

It’s a toss-up between reading and cooking, and since I discuss cooking in Question #4, I’ll tell you about my favourite books and authors.

I’ve had a number of favourite authors, beginning with Carolyn Keene of Nancy Drew fame, continuing with James Herriot, and bringing us up to the present with Jane Austen, Ernest Hemingway, Phyllis Whitney, and M. C. Beaton. My favourite author at any given time depends on my mood.

I’m currently reading four books: Murder in the South of France by Susan Kiernan-Lewis, White Nights by Ann Cleeves, Trials Elsewhere by Robin Isard, and The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. It’s not like me to read four books at once- normally I’m a one-at-a-time reader, but things got a bit out of control and I’ll be back to my normal habits as soon as I finish this quartet!

Who is the best actor or actress you have ever seen on television or film and tell us why.

I don’t even have to think about this one. The answer is Cary Grant. I have yet to see a movie starring Cary Grant that I don’t love. Why is he my favourite? I think it’s because his comedic timing is perfect. Whether he’s raising an eyebrow or clearing his throat at just the right moment, or delivering a line in his characteristic tongue-in-cheek manner, he gets it just right and I don’t think he learned that from a director. I think that was just his way.

Incidentally, the two movies I watch over and over again are “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House” and “The Bishop’s Wife.” Cary Grant plays opposite Myrna Loy and Loretta Young, respectively. During the Christmas season, “The Bishop’s Wife” is my favourite movie. During the rest of the year, it’s got to be “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House.”

If you cook do you have a signature dish that everyone loves to eat? Can we have the recipe?

I love to cook. Baking is my speciality, though as I get older all the baking I do becomes more obvious on my hips and thighs. I’m going to give you two recipes: one is my signature dish, Parmesan Chicken (not to be confused with Chicken Parmesan) and the other is Rhubarb Cake, a dessert which my whole family loves (and it’s easy—not even from scratch! Shhh…).

*Cook’s Disclaimer: neither of these can in any way be considered healthy*

Parmesan Chicken

1 c. seasoned bread crumbs
½ c. grated Parmesan cheese
½ c. melted butter
2 t. Dijon mustard
1 t. Worcestershire sauce
½ t. salt (optional)
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

In a shallow bowl combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese; mix well. In another shallow bowl combine butter, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt; mix well.

Dredge chicken through butter mixture, then through bread crumb mixture.

Place chicken in a 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Pour remaining butter mixture over chicken. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour, basting with butter mixture once or twice.

Serves 6.

Rhubarb Cake

1 pkg. (18 ½ oz.) yellow cake mix and ingredients to make it
5 c. diced rhubarb
1 c. sugar
1 c. heavy cream

Mix cake as directed on the package. Pour batter into a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish.

Sprinkle rhubarb over batter. Sprinkle with sugar. Pour cream over the top. DO NOT MIX THE LAYERS.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes.

Whilst we enjoy both of those delicious offerings..tell us about your work in progress, plans for your blog in the next year any special events that are coming up that are very special to you.

My work in progress: I have been contracted by my publisher to write a three-book series set in the United Kingdom. Right now I’m working on Book 1, and although I have a working title for it, we haven’t come up with an official title yet. Otherwise I’d share it with you now! The three books will be in the same genre as my first three novels- women’s fiction with a gothic feel to them. I’m very excited about writing these books, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of writing the first in the series. It’s set mostly in Edinburgh and I have a field trip planned for research!

My blog: My goal this year is to increase the number of authors I have on the blog either guest posting or participating in interviews. It’s been a good year so far, and I enjoyed having you on the blog, Sally.

Upcoming events: By the time this posts, I will have attended Malice Domestic in Bethesda, MD, US. It’s a convention bringing together writers and fans of traditional and less traditional cozy mysteries, as well as agents and editors.

I’m also planning on participating in a river cruise (a one-day affair) on the St. Lawrence River during the summer with a couple other authors. Since that’s the area where I grew up, I’m very excited about that.

I also have two other author/fan festivals planned for this year: the Suffolk Mystery Authors Festival in Suffolk, VA, US, and Bouchercon, in New Orleans, LA, US. It’s going to be a busy year!

Thanks very much for including me in the Open House, Sally. I have enjoyed the experience and will be happy to respond to any questions or comments your readers might have.

Connect with Amy via her website and social media links:

Website: www.amymreade.com
Blog: www.amreade.wordpress.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8189243.Amy_M_Reade
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Amy-M.-Reade/e/B00LX6ASF2/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amreadeauthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/readeandwrite
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/amreade

Thanks to Amy for sharing her interests, books and recipes.. no need to cook lunch today. As always delighted to receive your feedback and please feel free to share Amy’s interview around the usual haunts.. Enjoy the rest of Sunday.. Sally

Smorgasbord Open House – Author Amy M. Reade

Posted on April 17, 2016 by Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.

Welcome to the first Smorgasbord Open House from Ireland and today I am delighted to welcome USA Today Bestselling author Amy M. Reade. Amy writes women’s contemporary and gothic fiction. Her books have been compared to authors such as Daphne du Maurier, Phyllis Whitney, and Victoria Holt. Amy’s novels feature vivid descriptions of exotic and fascinating locations, such as the Thousand Islands region of New York State, Charleston, South Carolina, and the Big Island of Hawaii.

A former attorney, Amy found that writing was her true calling, and is currently working on a new project, a series set in Edinburgh, Scotland. She loves cooking, reading, and travel. You can visit her website, http://www.amymreade.com, where, in addition to information about her books and appearances, you will find a contact form, suggested playlists to go along with her novels, and notes and recommendations on wines.

Amy’s latest book is available for pre-order and will be delivered to your kindle on April 26th. Pre-Order House of the Hanging Jade

About House of the Hanging Jade

A dark presence had invaded the Jorgensens’ house. On a spectacular bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, something evil is watching and waiting . . .

Other Books by Amy Reade

One of the great reviews for the book

Outstanding! Could not put it down! By Kathleen Charon on April 29, 2015 Format: Paperback Verified Purchase

Delightful discovery! By Kathleen Charon on April 22, 2015 Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
When I was younger, I read Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney books all the time. I have looked in vain for other authors who write similar books. I am so pleased that I found Ms Reade. I could not stop reading this book, I enjoyed the pacing and the characters very much. Some plot twists seemed sudden but I was not able to figure out the ending. It was a clean story and no overt violence. I am anxious to read other books by this author.

Buy all the books.
Amazon Barnes & Noble Kobo iTunes Google Play Kensington Publishing Indie Bound

Amy M. Reade the Blogger

Amy has a terrific blog and you will find interviews, guest blogs, book recommendations, recipes and articles on wine. Later on in today’s post you will find a delicious recipe that will give you a good idea of the food ideas you will find on the blog. Here is a link to one of her recent author interviews with Phyllis Moore.

I am now going to hand over to Amy to find out more about her life and work through the questions she has chosen to answer

Who would you like to meet from the past who you would like to have a conversation with. What would you tell them about their behaviour that you admired or disapproved of?

If I could meet anyone from the past, I would choose Zelda Fitzgerald, wife of author F. Scott Fitzgerald.

I would want to know all about living in Paris in the early twentieth century- where she liked to go for fun, where she lived, which restaurants she liked to visit, how people dressed.

I would also ask her about her own writing, since as I understand it she was a very good writer whose work was always considered less important than that of her husband.

I’d also want to know about all her friends in Paris- I’d ask about Ernest and Hadley Hemingway, Picasso, Gertrude Stein and, of course, F. Scott.

Which is your favourite leisure pastime?

It’s a toss-up between reading and cooking, and since I discuss cooking in Question #4, I’ll tell you about my favourite books and authors.

I’ve had a number of favourite authors, beginning with Carolyn Keene of Nancy Drew fame, continuing with James Herriot, and bringing us up to the present with Jane Austen, Ernest Hemingway, Phyllis Whitney, and M. C. Beaton. My favourite author at any given time depends on my mood.

I’m currently reading four books: Murder in the South of France by Susan Kiernan-Lewis, White Nights by Ann Cleeves, Trials Elsewhere by Robin Isard, and The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. It’s not like me to read four books at once- normally I’m a one-at-a-time reader, but things got a bit out of control and I’ll be back to my normal habits as soon as I finish this quartet!

Who is the best actor or actress you have ever seen on television or film and tell us why.

I don’t even have to think about this one. The answer is Cary Grant. I have yet to see a movie starring Cary Grant that I don’t love. Why is he my favourite? I think it’s because his comedic timing is perfect. Whether he’s raising an eyebrow or clearing his throat at just the right moment, or delivering a line in his characteristic tongue-in-cheek manner, he gets it just right and I don’t think he learned that from a director. I think that was just his way.

Incidentally, the two movies I watch over and over again are “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House” and “The Bishop’s Wife.” Cary Grant plays opposite Myrna Loy and Loretta Young, respectively. During the Christmas season, “The Bishop’s Wife” is my favourite movie. During the rest of the year, it’s got to be “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House.”

If you cook do you have a signature dish that everyone loves to eat? Can we have the recipe?

I love to cook. Baking is my specialty, though as I get older all the baking I do becomes more obvious on my hips and thighs. I’m going to give you two recipes: one is my signature dish, Parmesan Chicken (not to be confused with Chicken Parmesan) and the other is Rhubarb Cake, a dessert which my whole family loves (and it’s easy—not even from scratch! Shhh…).

*Cook’s Disclaimer: neither of these can in any way be considered healthy*

Parmesan Chicken

1 c. seasoned bread crumbs
½ c. grated Parmesan cheese
½ c. melted butter
2 t. Dijon mustard
1 t. Worcestershire sauce
½ t. salt (optional)
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

In a shallow bowl combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese; mix well. In another shallow bowl combine butter, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt; mix well.

Dredge chicken through butter mixture, then through bread crumb mixture.

Place chicken in a 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Pour remaining butter mixture over chicken. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour, basting with butter mixture once or twice.

Serves 6.

Rhubarb Cake

1 pkg. (18 ½ oz.) yellow cake mix and ingredients to make it
5 c. diced rhubarb
1 c. sugar
1 c. heavy cream

Mix cake as directed on the package. Pour batter into a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish.

Sprinkle rhubarb over batter. Sprinkle with sugar. Pour cream over the top. DO NOT MIX THE LAYERS.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes.

Tell us about your work in progress, plans for your blog in the next year any special events that are coming up that are very special to you.

I also have two other author/fan festivals planned for this year: the Suffolk Mystery Authors Festival in Suffolk, VA, US, and Bouchercon, in New Orleans, LA, US. It’s going to be a busy year!

Thanks very much for including me in the Open House, Sally. I have enjoyed the experience and will be happy to respond to any questions or comments your readers might have.

Connect with Amy via her website and social media links:

Website: http://www.amymreade.com
Blog: http://www.amreade.wordpress.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8189243.Amy_M_Reade
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/amreadeauthor
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/readeandwrite
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/amreade

My thanks to Amy for her great responses to the questions and also for providing two recipes that will just have to be attempted…. my chances of getting out of those elasticated waistbands is diminishing fast.

Please feel free to share Amy’s interview and we would love your feedback. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Christmas Grotto 2015 – Books – Secrets of Hallstead House by Amy. M. Reade

Posted on October 20, 2015 by Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.

The featured books today are written by USA Today bestselling author Amy M. Reade. Suspense and romance in very atmospheric surroundings.

About the Book

“You are not wanted here. Go away from Hallstead Island or you will be very sorry you stayed.”

Macy Stoddard had hoped to ease the grief of losing her parents in a fiery car crash by accepting a job as a private nurse to the wealthy and widowed Alexandria Hallstead. But her first sight of Hallstead House is of a dark and forbidding home. She quickly finds its winding halls and shadowy rooms filled with secrets and suspicions. Alex seems happy to have Macy’s help, but others on the island, including Alex’s sinister servants and hostile relatives, are far less welcoming. Watching eyes, veiled threats. . .slowly, surely, the menacing spirit of Hallstead Island closes in around Macy. And she can only wonder if her story will become just one of the many secrets of Hallstead House. . .

Other books by Amy M. Reade

One of the great reviews for the book

One of the great reviews for the book Outstanding! Could not put it down! By Kathleen Charon on April 29, 2015 Format: Paperback Verified Purchase

New Release in April 2016

A dark presence had invaded the Jorgensens’ house. On a spectacular bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, something evil is watching and waiting . .

Pre-order link

http://www.amazon.com/House-Hanging-Jade-Amy-Reade-ebook/dp/B0138NHCMO/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Buy all the books.
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Amy-M.-Reade/e/B00LX6ASF2
Amy’s website links to other bookstores. http://www.amymreade.com/#!books/cnec

Also available at Barnes and Noble, Kobo books, Kensington Books and other online bookstores.

About the Author

Amy M. Reade grew up in Northern New York, just 30 miles from the St. Lawrence River. A USA Today Bestselling writer of women’s gothic fiction, Amy’s books have been compared to authors such as Daphne du Maurier, Phyllis Whitney, and Victoria Holt. Her novels feature vivid descriptions of exotic and fascinating locations, such as the Thousand Islands region of New York State, Charleston, South Carolina, and the Big Island of Hawaii.

A former attorney, Amy found that writing was her true calling, and is currently working on a new project, a series set in Edinburgh, Scotland. She loves cooking, reading, and travel. You can visit her website, http://www.amymreade.com, where, in addition to information about her books and appearances, you will find a contact form, suggested playlists to go along with her novels, and notes and recommendations on wines.

Connect with Amy on her site, blog and social media
website: www.amymreade.com
blog: www.amreade.wordpress.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amreadeauthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/readeandwrite
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/amreade

For details about how to submit your book, gifts and music please take a look at both the format of the post today and also in the link below.

https://smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com/2015/10/07/omg-the-c-word-sallys-christmas-grotto-open-again-for-business/

For the books and gifts currently in the emporium please pop into the shop.

https://smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com/christmas-grotto-2015-books/