Zanna Mackenzie

Laura's Interests: IN THE STARS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 10:37:00 +0000

Another fun stop on my big book blog tour today! I'm delighted with the review of In The Stars...

Laura's Interests: IN THE STARS: In The Stars: A Humorous Romantic Mystery (Amber Reed Mystery) In The Stars: A Humorous Romantic Mystery (Amber Reed Mystery) Cozy...

CAROLE'S BOOK CORNER: In The Stars by Zanna MacKenzie Blog Tour, Guest P...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 10:29:00 +0000

CAROLE'S BOOK CORNER: In The Stars by Zanna MacKenzie Blog Tour, Guest P...: Today I'm thrilled to be kicking off the blog tour for In the Stars by Zanna MacKenzie who has written a brilliant and thought-provo...

Book Corner - Exciting New Mystery Series By Caroline Fardig

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 23:00:00 +0000

Caroline Fardig, one of my favourite authors, has just launched the first book in her exciting new mystery series- yay!

Here's the info:

From USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fardig comes a gripping new forensic mystery series.

Three years ago, criminalist Ellie Matthews was blindsided when a grisly homicide case suddenly became personal. She abandoned the danger and stress of crime scene investigation for a professorship at a posh private college and never looked back.

Now, Ellie’s pleasant world is shattered when she finds the dead body of a female student. The campus is in chaos, reporters are circling like vultures, and Ellie is trying her best to distance herself from the situation. Not an easy task when her closest colleague becomes the prime suspect.

After the college community is rocked by another suspicious death, Ellie’s mentor, Sheriff Jayne Walsh, convinces her to consult on the case. Partnered with quick-witted Detective Nick Baxter, Ellie reluctantly bottles up her personal demons and dives back into the world she left behind, racing to make sense of the evidence before the killer strikes again.

Get this book on Amazon USA

Get this book on Amazon UK

Get this book on Barnes & Noble

Book Corner - New Book By Caroline Fardig

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 07:00:00 +0000

I'm a big fan of the author Caroline Fardig and have read all of her fabulous romantic comedy mystery books across both her Java Jive series and her Lizzie Hart series.

I'm excited to reveal that the next book in the amazing Java Jive Mystery series is released on April 25th. I've been lucky enough to get my hands on an advance review copy and have read this book before it hits the book shelves - I loved it!

Find out more about this book below...

BREW OR DIE

BREW OR DIE is the fourth book in the JAVA JIVE MYSTERIES series.

Nashville’s perkiest private eye—coffeehouse manager Juliet Langley—goes undercover in the party-planning industry to solve a suspicious death in this thrilling cozy mystery from USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fardig.

Book Description:

Inspired by her past sleuthing successes, Juliet Langley has officially joined the ranks of Nashville’s licensed private investigators. Her best friend, Pete Bennett, doesn’t worry that her detective work might interfere with her full-time job running his coffeehouse, Java Jive. He just wishes she would spend her free time rejoining the local music scene instead of tailing cheating spouses. But when one of Java Jive’s baristas, Shane, asks Juliet to look into the suspicious death of his fiancée, Pete encourages her to plow full steam ahead.

Since his fiancée died on the job, Shane suspects that her party-planning colleagues are up to something criminal—and will do anything to keep it quiet. After Juliet recruits Pete to go undercover with her at a wedding showcase, she discovers that white lace and black satin have a way of hiding big, fat secrets.

If that weren’t enough to fill her plate, her latest P.I. job has her crossing paths with her ex, Detective Ryder Hamilton. They’re barely on speaking terms, but to solve the case, they might have to cooperate. No matter where Juliet goes, she’s brewing up trouble.

Click here to find out more and get your copy of this book

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author:

CAROLINE FARDIG is the USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR of the Java Jive Mysteries series and the Lizzie Hart Mysteries series. Fardig's BAD MEDICINE was named one of the "Best Books of 2015" by Suspense Magazine. She worked as a schoolteacher, church organist, insurance agent, funeral parlor associate, and stay-at-home mom before she realized that she wanted to be a writer when she grew up. Born and raised in a small town in Indiana, Fardig still lives in that same town with an understanding husband, two sweet kids, two energetic dogs, and one malevolent cat.

Social Media Info For Caroline:

Website:

www.carolinefardig.com

Blog:

http://www.carolinefardig.com/blog/

Mailing List:

http://www.carolinefardig.com/mailing-list/

Twitter: @carolinefardig

Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/carolinefardigbooks/

Book Spotlight With Caroline Fardig

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:05:00 +0000

New Book By Caroline Fardig

Caroline Fardig, one of my favorite authors, has just released the latest book in her fabulous Java Jive Mystery series. I was fortunate enough to get an advance copy of this book and I eagerly raced through reading it, keen to catch up with the coffeehouse and the wonderful characters.

I highly recommend both of Caroline's series of mysteries combined with comedy and romance (Java Jive series and the Lizzie Hart series).

About this book:

Coffeehouse manager and reluctant sleuth Juliet Langley returns in a gripping novel from the bestselling author of Death Before Decaf and Mug Shot. Just as things are perking up in Nashville, a serial killer sends tensions foaming over.

Juliet’s personal and professional lives have recently received an extra jolt of energy. Her romance with the hunky detective Ryder Hamilton continues to simmer, and business at Java Jive has never been better. But her good mood quickly turns as stale as day-old espresso when she finds out that Ryder has been promoted to his precinct’s homicide division. With him risking his life to catch the worst kind of criminals, Juliet’s growing sense of unease ignites when a local college student goes missing.

Suddenly every Nashville resident is on high alert, especially Juliet’s neighbor Chelsea. Juliet does her best to calm the girl’s nerves, but her worst fears are confirmed when she finds Chelsea dead. Even though she tries her best to stay out of it, Juliet’s involvement puts a strain on Ryder’s first homicide case. The situation soon becomes even more personal for Juliet and her best friend Pete Bennett when one of their employees disappears during her shift. As a killer lurks in the shadows, Juliet, Pete, and Ryder seek out a double shot of justice.

American buy links for this book:

RH Amazon B&N Kobo iBooks BAM!

PLUS:

UK Amazon link

Monday Movies - Festive Films

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000

Hi and welcome to what I hope to be a weekly blog post about movies I have watched and enjoyed.

First, let me make a confession, I ADORE Christmas movies, so there may well be quite a few of them cropping up over the next few weeks!

Today, I'm starting with 3 of my favorite festive films...

The Holiday

This has to be, in my humble opinion, one of the modern Christmas classics. The story of two women who swap homes for the festive season and all of the drama, comedy and romance which follows. I watch this film every year and never grow tired of it.

Serendipity

This is another film I simply have to get the DVD off the shelf and watch each Christmas - sometimes I watch it in the middle of the summer too and just wallow in the brilliant festive-ness of it all! The ending is simply perfect...

The Twelve Men Of Christmas

This is a very recent addition to my favorite festive films list. I read and loved the book this film is based on many years ago and was keen to see the movie but it has only just been shown here in the UK on the Movies 24/Christmas 24 channel. There are quite a number of changes in the plot in the film from the original book but I think both are excellent.

When die-hard New Yorker and publicist E.J. Baxter (Chenoweth) loses both her high-powered Manhattan job and her lawyer-fiance at her office Christmas party, she winds up taking a job and moving to Montana. To help the local search-and-rescue station raise desperately needed funds, she convinces the male rescue workers to pose for a naked calendar. Along the way, she discovers what really matters to her and wins the heart of one of the pin-ups!

The Friday Book Corner - Festive Reads

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:22:00 +0000

Hi,

Welcome to what I'm aiming to be a new weekly feature on my blog - the Friday Book Corner!

Each week, I'd like to shine the book spotlight on favorite books I've read over the years, an enjoyable just-finished read, fiction books with themes such as dancing, Christmas, travel, baking, countries or regions such as Scotland or Alaska - and any more ideas which come to mind as I peruse my actual and virtual bookshelves of beloved reads. I do hope you'll join me in celebrating some great books by amazing authors.

Right, let's get on to one of my favorite subjects - books!

As we are now in November and all of the Christmas decorations, trees and gift ideas are appearing in the stores, I thought I'd share with you three Christmas books I have read and absolutely loved...

Dashing Through The Snow by Debbie Macomber

I saw the movie of this book on Christmas 24 last year and then enjoyed it so much that I had to get the book to read and keep too. The movie featured one of my favorite actors Andrew W. Walker which added to the enjoyment of the movie!

About this book:

Ashley Davison, a graduate student in California, desperately wants to spend the holidays with her family in Seattle. Dashiell Sutherland, a former army intelligence officer, has a job interview in Seattle and must arrive by December 23. Though frantic to book a last-minute flight out of San Francisco, both are out of luck: Every flight is full, and there’s only one rental car available. Ashley and Dash reluctantly decide to share the car, but neither anticipates the wild ride ahead.

Sleigh Bells In The Snow by Sarah Morgan

Why do I love this book? Well, it's set in Vermont, for starters. I have always wanted to visit New England but as I live in the UK, unfortunately I've never managed to visit. I love books, movies and TV series based in this area! Sleigh Bells In The Snow also has a glorious mountain resort with lots of equally glorious scenery, lots of laughs, drama, romance and escapism as well.

About this book:

Once upon a time, Christmas was Kayla Green's favorite time of year. Now all the workaholic wants for Christmas is for it to be over—as fast as possible! So when duty calls her to snowy Vermont to close a deal with a new client, Kayla is grateful for an excuse to avoid the holidays for another year.

Jackson O'Neil left a thriving business behind to return home and salvage his family's resort—it's in his blood, and he can't let it fail. Now that he's got marketing whiz Kayla Green working with him to put Snow Crystal on the map, success is on the horizon. The fact they strike enough sparks off each other to power all the Christmas lights in Vermont is just an added bonus.

Kayla might be an expert at her job, but she's out of her depth with Jackson—he makes her crave the happy-ever-after she once dreamed of, and it's terrifying. As the snowflakes continue to swirl, will the woman who doesn't believe in the magic of Christmas finally fall under its spell?

Winter Wonderland by Belinda Jones

This book is one of my favorites because of the setting - the glittering Winter Carnival in Quebec City in Canada. I was lucky enough to spend 10 days touring around eastern Canada some twenty years ago and I absolutely fell in love with the country, the people and the scenery. We visited Niagara, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, lots of places along the way and, of course, the stunning old town area of Quebec. It was the month of May when we visited so there was no snow or ice to savor on that occasion but I thought how amazing the place must look during the annual Winter Carnival. This book captures all of the excitement of the event and makes you feel as though you are there as you enjoy the sights and sounds along with the book's star, the travel journalist Krista. As a former travel agent I'm always keen to read books where I get to learn about new cultures and countries and love doing a spot of armchair travel! Along with the amazing setting and lots of fun and excitement, there's also plenty of romance in this story too...

About this book:

Imagine waking up in a snow globe...That's how travel journalist Krista feels when she arrives in magical Quebec to report on Canada's glittering Winter Carnival. Over ten sub-zero days Krista's formerly frozen heart begins to melt as she discovers an enchanting world of ice palaces, husky dog-sledding and maple-syrup treats galore. And then she meets Jacques, a man as handsome and rugged as he is mysterious...The two share a secret that could bond them forever, but can they find a way to break through the protective layers around their hearts to warm up this winter wonderland? ...let the snow-spangled adventure begin

I'll share more of my favorite festive reads with you next week - in the meantime, have a great weekend!
Zanna
x

Book Spotlight - Wedding Bell Blues by Caroline Fardig

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 23:00:00 +0000

Great news, book 5 in Caroline Fardig's Lizzie Hart Mysteries is out today! I love this series and was lucky enough to get to read an advance review copy of this book and it is absolutely fabulous. I highly recommend grabbing a copy and if you haven't read the rest of the series, then give it a go as you can currently try book 1 (It's Just A Little Crush) for free on Amazon USA.

Now, about the book....

Lizzie Hart’s crazy love life has been leading up this moment…when she finally gets to marry Blake Morgan. But with their luck, will they make it to ’til death do us part before the wedding even starts?

It’s June in the small town of Liberty, and that means it’s wedding season. Faster than you can say “I do,” the social height of the year turns deadly as a sadistic killer begins targeting couples on what should be their happiest day.

The terror begins as a groom keels over before he can get through his vows. The clever killer frames Bethany McCool, the dead groom’s ex, for the murder. Lizzie knows her friend Bethany is innocent, so she enlists the help of her fiancé, Blake, and sets out to find the real killer. But as the mayhem intensifies, the duo realizes they’re going to have to partner up with the police this time instead of trying to do all the sleuthing on their own.

As if they don’t have enough to do, Lizzie and Blake’s big day is fast approaching, and neither of them can wait to tie the knot. Lizzie’s domineering mother has taken over the planning for the wedding, but even she can’t hold everything together as one by one the florist, the baker, and the caterer start pulling out over safety concerns. With the string of violence threatening to ruin their happily ever after, Lizzie and Blake must rush to find the killer before they become the next victims.

Get this book on Amazon USA

Get this book on Amazon UK

Check out Caroline's other books on Amazon

Summer Celebration Grand Prize Draw

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 13:16:00 +0000

Have you entered the Big 4th of July Giveaway yet?

There are 21 ebooks (including my own book Murder On The Menu) and $210 of Amazon gift cards up for grabs.

You can enter here:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/df645d05224/

Book Spotlight - Mug Shot by Caroline Fardig

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 23:00:00 +0000

I have read all of Caroline Fardig's books and loved every one of them. She writes two fun (and romantic) mystery series - Lizzie Hart Mysteries and the Java Jive Mysteries.

Book 2 in the Java Jive series is called Mug Shot (brilliant title!) and is released today. I've already read this book ( advance review copy - yay! Lucky me) and it is just as wonderful as Caroline's other books - I highly recommend grabbing a copy. If you haven't read any of her other books, I'd say get those as well!

MUG SHOT is the second book in the JAVA JIVE MYSTERIES series. DEATH BEFORE DECAF (Book 1) is a USA TODAY BESTSELLER.

Full of humor and suspense, the bestselling Java Jive series heats up as the irrepressible heroine of Death Before Decaf faces off against Nashville’s upper crust to solve a shocking murder.

Book Description:

Former musician Juliet Langley has barely had a day off since taking over management of the coffeehouse owned by her best friend, Pete Bennett. But there’s always more to be done—such as prepping for the annual Holiday 5K Race organized by Pete’s snobby socialite girlfriend, Cecilia Hollingsworth. This year, Java Jive has a booth right at the finish line, and since Juliet and Cecilia don’t always see eye to eye, everything has to be perfect. Nothing can go wrong. Nothing . . . like Juliet stumbling over Cecilia’s dead body on the morning of the race.

When Pete is arrested for Cecilia’s murder, Juliet sets out to clear his name. She’ll do whatever it takes—even if it means standing up to the police, her ex-boyfriend, and the grande dames of Nashville. But there isn’t enough espresso in the world for the greatest challenge in her path: infiltrating Nashville’s high society to uncover the hidden hotbed of scandal without running afoul of the law herself. With her last dime staked on Pete’s bail bond and her staff growing jittery, the last thing Juliet needs is for her trademark temper to land her behind bars. As time drips away, Juliet needs to crack this case before the killer comes back for another shot.

Grab a copy of Mug Shot

in the USA

in the UK

About the Author:

Social Media For Caroline:

Website:

www.carolinefardig.com

Blog:

http://www.carolinefardig.com/blog/

Mailing List:

http://www.carolinefardig.com/mailing-list/

Twitter: @carolinefardig

Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/carolinefardigbooks/

Don't forget Caroline's FABULOUS

on Amazon USA

on Amazon UK

Diary of A Dog Owner - Week 1

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 14:47:00 +0000

We've had Labrador dogs in our lives for well over ten years now and consider them part of our family. Which goes a long way towards why my hubbie and I are so worried and nervous at the moment - we might be adding to that family, if only temporarily!

Our 'pack' consists of Meg (age 8), Moss (age 5), Cassie (age 3 and a half) and Ruby (10 months). Sadly, Toby (who would have been 10) passed away back in September 2014. Anyway, I digress, back to family matters... we mated Cassie with a dog called Rick (he has a posh kennel name but goes by the name Rick to his friends) almost a month ago and this Friday is D-day or should that be P-day (puppy day) because that's the day we'll take her to be scanned and find out if she'll be having puppies or not.

We've never mated any our of dogs before so this is virgin (excuse the pun) territory - and all exciting but scary at the same time too. We think Cassie probably is in pup because she is behaving differently and our other dogs keep sniffing her as though she smells different. If Cass is expecting then some of the pups are already spoken for with excellent homes lined up, but I suspect we'll grow very attached to the little labs during the 8 weeks we'll be looking after them until they go off to their new homes - will we be tempted to keep one for ourselves?

I'll update you after Friday with the news on whether Cassie is about to become a mum or not and if so how many pups the vet thinks she is expecting - ahh, much nervous gnawing of finger nails in the meantime...

Book Spotlight With Deborah Nam-Krane

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 Mar 2016 23:00:00 +0000

Today's spotlight is a book launch by the fabulous author Deborah Nam-Krane...

The Golden Boy Returns

David Hwang was idealistic, smart, and hard-working—and he wanted to help. Powerful Lucy Bartolome recognized his talent right away, but first he needed to smooth out his rough edges. He’d need every lesson she’d taught him if he was going to run for mayor of Boston—again.

Kasi Panchal was smart and hard-working, but she’d seen too much for too long to be idealistic. Something about David Hwang made her believe in a lot of things she’d given up on—including herself.

Zainab Hendrickson and Emily Graham knew David and Kasi could make things happen if they joined forces. Of course they’re right, but can those two get out of their way long enough to see it too?

Buy links for this book:

Amazon

Smashwords

Giveaway code

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the author:

Deborah Nam-Krane is a writer in Boston who has been writing novels since the age of thirteen. When she’s not reading, writing, editing or reviewing, you can find her running around Boston with her homeschooled sons or acting like a mad scientist in her kitchen.

The best way to keep in touch is to follow her blog Written By Deb and subscribe to her newsletter (only publishing announcements, never spam).

The Hidden Meaning Of Flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 Mar 2016 15:18:00 +0000

I'm always intrigued by things having hidden meanings and I love the idea of flowers having a recognised language all of their own.

As well as looking pretty and smelling gorgeous the types of flowers you choose to give as gifts or pop in a vase on your dining room table have, according to folklore, secret meanings...

Sending someone the 'wrong' type of flower or a bloom in an appropriate colour was once considered a major faux pas.

****

So, if you fancy learning the language of flowers here's a little translation:

* White flowers symbolise protection and purification
* Pink relates to friendship and affection
* Red - not surprising these are associated with passion, sex, lust and love
* Yellow is connected to wisdom
* Orange flowers are linked with success and vitality
* Blue flowers are all about healing and peace

****

So, that's an idea of colours and their traditional associations, now, let's get specific, with flower types....

* Carnations - energy and healing

* Violet- love and protection
* Daffodil - fertility and love
* Sweet peas - friendship
* Daisy - love (remember making daisy chains and the rhyme about he loves, he loves me not, as you pick off the petals?)

* Rose - love (of course!)
* Larkspur/delphinium - health and protection
* Poppy - luck and prosperity
* Calendula - strength and healing
* Chrysanthemums - protection

Fascinating, don't you think?

Grab An Addictive Romantic Comedy Mystery For Free or 99c

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 10:02:00 +0000

"Addictive new series, approach only if you are willing to read into the early hours of the morning!!!"
Chicks That Read

'Humorous romantic cozy mystery in the world of the rich and famous'

The Book:

Amber Reed’s at work making up the horoscopes for the local newspaper and wishing for some excitement in her life, when she gets a phone call offering her just that.

Plunged into the middle of a celebrity murder investigation she’s desperately trying to convince the scarily handsome special agent assigned to solve the case that she can help him catch the killer.

Amber’s soon battling something far more dangerous than she could ever have imagined – and it has nothing to do with the equally scary chemistry fizzing between her and special agent Charlie.

Has Amber’s wish for more excitement in her life landed her in big trouble – or is her fate written in the stars?

From The Reviews:

“The start of what promises to be a very good series, Amber Reed (also known as Madam Zamber, astrologer in residence on the local paper) is about to get involved in murder!”

“Amber Reed's life isn't that exciting. During the day she works as a horoscope writer for a local paper and in the evenings she's a bar maid in a pub. However, Amber's life is suddenly shaken up when she is contacted by her ex-boyfriend Ennis McKarthy, who is now a famous actor, after his brother Joel has been found dead. Amber immediately goes to Ennis to see what has happened: was it an accident, suicide, or perhaps murder? Amber quickly meets Charlie Huxton, an agent for the CCIA (Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency) who has been hired by Ennis to get to the bottom of things. Yet, Ennis doesn't trust Charlie 100%, so he asks Amber to keep track of things and follow Charlie. At first, Amber isn't so sure, but as the plot thickens and as she gets to know Charlie, she simply no longer can't seem to stay away until the case has been solved.”

“I quickly warmed to the main protagonist, Amber, and leading man Charlie has a bit of a James Bond feel to him which I think numerous female readers will definitely enjoy!”

Check Out The Book's Mini Movie Trailer over on YouTube:

Grab a copy of this book for just 99c /99p or read it for free on Kindle Unlimited and join Amber on her sleuthing adventures with lots of romance and comedy along the way....

Find this book now on Amazon

Grab Your Free Chick Lit Celebrity Mystery Today

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 01 Mar 2016 17:15:00 +0000

FREE TODAY!

"Addictive new series, approach only if you are willing to read into the early hours of the morning!!!"
Chicks That Read

'Humorous romantic cozy mystery in the world of the rich and famous'

Amber Reed’s at work making up the horoscopes for the local newspaper and wishing for some excitement in her life, when she gets a phone call offering her just that.

Plunged into the middle of a celebrity murder investigation she’s desperately trying to convince the scarily handsome special agent assigned to solve the case that she can help him catch the killer.

Amber’s soon battling something far more dangerous than she could ever have imagined – and it has nothing to do with the equally scary chemistry fizzing between her and special agent Charlie.

Has Amber’s wish for more excitement in her life landed her in big trouble – or is her fate written in the stars?

Check the trailer for this book here:

Or grab your FREE book on Amazon at:

http://viewbook.at/InTheStars

Valentine's Day Book Love

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 12 Feb 2016 00:00:00 +0000

Valentine's Day at a family-run hotel in the gorgeous Lake District is causing problems for Harriet...

REMEMBER WHEN

Harriet’s life is chaotic.

She’s lucky if she catches a rare glimpse of her husband as they pass in the kitchen, they’re both working so hard. When Ollie had taken over the running of the family business the Country Oaks, a seen-better-days hotel in the picturesque Lake District, it had turned their lives upside down.

Now, fighting to keep the place from financial ruin takes all the time and energy they can muster.

And don’t even get her started on her anxiety-inducing teenage daughter who wants to go to the college Valentine’s Day dance with the local bad boy.

As the Country Oaks prepares for a hectic Valentine’s weekend, packed with loved-up guests, Harriet and Ollie are forced to face the realities of their life, their marriage and their future together.

Can they rekindle the romance or has the spark fizzled out and died, never to be lit again?

SPECIAL BONUS CONTENT

You’ll also receive:

· * Four short stories with romance at their heart.

· * Exclusive sneak peek extracts from four romantic comedy novels by Zanna Mackenzie.

· * PLUS – a FREE romantic mystery book

All of this for just 99p/99c!

Sneak Peek.....

Chapter One

Alexa polished off the last bit of her muffin. “So, what are your plans for Valentine’s Day then?”

“I’ll be working, while Ollie attempts to charm about forty women,” Harriet replied, her own chocolate chip muffin untouched on her plate. She’d lost her appetite lately.

“Forty eh?” Alexa giggled. “That’s ambitious even for Ollie.”

“I don’t mind. It’s part of his job.”

“Say that as if you mean it,” Alexa challenged. She looked closely at Harriet as she sipped her coffee. “Things are okay with you and Ollie, aren’t they?”

Harriet sighed, pushing a lock of hair out of her eyes. An appointment with the hairdresser to tidy up her unruly auburn tresses was long overdue, but she never had the time - or the money - for such luxuries. “Sometimes,” she paused, choosing her words carefully. “Mostly, I feel as though I’m there purely to be a stand-in for the staff when they phone in sick; to sort the hotel accounts out, oh, and to cook dinner for everyone. I wonder if my husband actually remembers I’m his wife, not just another employee.”

“You guys have been working like crazy since you took on the hotel from his parents,” Alexa reasoned. “It must be tough.”

“I’m used to us both working long hours, it goes with the territory in the hospitality industry, but lately Ollie starts at about five in the morning and finally collapses into bed at around midnight. I’m worried about him. I’m also…” she paused, wondering if she dare admit to what had been on her mind more and more often since Christmas. The full extent of her concerns about her marriage.

“Also what?” prompted Alexa.

Harriet stared out across the lake, today it was shrouded in mist and drizzly rain. She loved the Lake District and had been thrilled to move here from the grit and grime of Manchester when Ollie had taken on his parents’ hotel just over a year ago. Even if it had meant they’d had to sell their gorgeous home and move into the less than salubrious three bedroom flat on the top floor of the hotel.

Alexa reached her hand across the table and placed it on top of Harriet’s. “You know you can tell me anything, but if you aren’t ready to talk, then I understand.”

“I am worried about our marriage, truth be told,” Harriet replied quietly, picking at the edge of a table napkin. “We’ve always done okay in our relationship despite the unsocial hours we’ve both worked. Even when I took time off to raise the girls, we still somehow managed to find time for each other. We talked, we laughed… we kissed. Nowadays, we don’t do any of those things, and I miss them. I miss Ollie. I miss the man I married. I know the responsibility of running the hotel weighs heavily on his shoulders, it does on mine too. It’s a lot of pressure, taking on the business your parents built from nothing.”

Alexa let out a long breath, puffing her fringe out of her eyes. “Have you said anything about all of this to Ollie?”

Harriet shook her head. “No. He’s got so much on at the moment. He looks tired and harassed enough as it is, and I don’t want to add to his already sky-high stress levels.”

“Even so, if you’re worried you should try to…”

“Look, forget I said anything.” Harriet waved a hand in an attempt to end their conversation. “Ignore me. It’s my imagination getting carried away with itself, that’s all. We’ll be fine. It’s one of those phases. Every marriage goes through them.”

“It’ll just be from all the demands of the hotel, he’ll be exhausted. You know how he is. You two will be fine. I’m certain of it.”

“Of course, you’re right.” Harriet nodded and forced a smile. “I’m being silly. I’ll try to persuade him to take an hour for dinner one night soon. I’ll cook something special for us. Imogen is often out with friends straight from college most nights, so it will just be the two of us, the perfect chance to sit down and properly catch up with each other.

“Brilliant idea. You make sure you do that,” Alexa said sternly. “So, going back to your earlier comment about the forty women Ollie will have to charm on Valentine’s Day, I’m presuming you have forty couples booked into the hotel restaurant and he’ll be dishing out the red roses to all the ladies, along with that winning smile of his?”

“Got it in one. With Valentine’s Day falling on a Wednesday this year most people have booked to celebrate on the preceding weekend. Which does mean there’s the slimmest chance Ollie and I might even manage a rushed romantic meal ourselves up in the flat on the big day itself. I’ve got my fingers crossed!”

“Do not take no for an answer. Even if you end up eating at midnight,” Alexa said before getting to her feet. “Sorry, sweetie but I have to get going, lots of errands to sort before I head back to the office.”

Glamourous Alexa ran her own recruitment agency providing temporary staff to local hoteliers. The two women had met at a parish council meeting not long after Harriet and Ollie had moved to the tourist hotspot of Allithwaite and they’d instantly become firm friends.

“No worries. I need to get moving and call in at the visitor information centre on my way back to the hotel to drop off some more leaflets,” replied Harriet, hugging her friend goodbye. “They rang us to say they’d run out and wanted a new supply.”

The visitor information centre was packed to the rafters with people seeking advice on what to do on a rainy February day in the Lake District. Parents with fractious children were perusing the display racks of leaflets in search of places with the potential to keep their offspring amused. Harriet quickly dropped off the hotel’s leaflets with Susie, the young girl who was on duty, and headed for the door, finger poised on the button of her umbrella, ready to click it open as soon as she stepped out into the now-torrential rain. A woman with a double pushchair tried to negotiate the doors at the same time and the buggy rammed into the back of Harriet’s heels. Pain ripped through her leg and foot and she stumbled forward, off balance, her hand slipping on the button and the umbrella springing open in the cramped vestibule.

“Ouch!”

At first Harriet thought it was her own cry but swiftly realised it was a male voice yelping in pain close by. She turned to spot a man clutching at his right eye, doubled over in discomfort. Quickly, she closed the errant umbrella and dropped it to the floor, realising its impromptu opening must have poked this poor guy in the eye.

“Oh no!” she gasped, racing to his side, hand to her mouth. “Are you all right?”

The man muttered something under his breath she didn’t hear and suspected it wouldn’t be a good idea to ask him to repeat. She took him by the arm and led him back into the centre towards a bank of chairs out of the way of the miserable, rain-soaked tourists.

“Sit down and let me take a look at your eye,” she commanded.

He did as instructed and she reached for his hand, gently pulling it away from his face.

“My umbrella really did get you, didn’t it?” She winched. “Your eye is all bloodshot and watering quite badly. Let me get you to the doctors. It could be iritis.”

The man managed a weak laugh. “Iritis? You just made that up. There’s no such thing.”

“I promise you, I didn’t make it up. Are you a local? I’m sorry, I don’t recognise your face. Are you here on holiday? I think the doctor’s surgery keep a few slots open for visitors who aren’t registered and just here on vacation and get ill or injured.”

“I’ve recently become a local again,” he replied, covering his eye with his hand and grimacing again. “I grew up around here and moved back a few weeks ago.”

“Okay. Are you registered with the health clinic in town yet?”

He nodded.

“Right, we’re off to the doctors with you then, are you all right to walk?”

“Honestly, I’m fine, there’s no need for the doctors,” he protested and leaned back in the chair, resting his head against the wall. “You could make up for injuring me by taking me out to dinner one night this week though.”

Harriet found herself smiling at his cheek and his bravado. “I’d say that’s flattering, but as you can only see with one eye at the moment, maybe it isn’t quite so flattering after all. Plus, I happen to be a married woman.” For a second she wondered why she hadn’t said she was a happily married woman. Slip of the tongue that was all.

He looked her up and down through his one good eye and replied, “I can see you perfectly well, but I confess I hadn’t spotted the fact you’re wearing a wedding ring. Sorry if I offended you.”

She smiled. It actually felt rather nice to be noticed by somebody, flattering, even if it was a total stranger. “Forget about it. It’s fine. Right, I’m taking you to the doctors, and no arguing.”

He got to his feet and swayed alarmingly.

“Steady on!” Harriet reached for his arm and peered nervously at him. “Do you feel dizzy?”

“A little,” he admitted. “My eye is throbbing like crazy. Maybe you’re right and I’d best get it seen to.”

Linking her arm through his so she could ensure he didn’t topple over, she said, “Let’s go. Now.”

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Past Perfect

"Addictive new series, approach only if you are willing to read into the early hours of the morning!!!"
Chicks That Read

'Humorous romantic cozy mystery in the world of the rich and famous'

One soap star death is a tragedy, but three all in the same week, that’s a case for the CCIA – otherwise known as the Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency.

Amber Reed, the agency's newest support officer, is sleuthing again! This time she's sent to Vancouver, Canada’s answer to Hollywood, where soap opera North Shores is filmed. She needs to track down who is targeting and killing the show’s stars – and fast.

Alongside her, making up the rest of the CCIA team for this high profile case, are man-eater and troublemaker Martha, agency bad boy Dan and Amber’s kind-of-ex-boyfriend, special agent Charlie.

Can they catch the killer before another star is murdered? Will Charlie and Amber kiss and make up or is it over between them, this time for good? Will sworn enemies Charlie and Dan manage to resist gunning for each other?

The team need to find a way to set aside their differences and focus on the investigation because this time there’s not just one murder case to solve but three!

READ AN EXTRACT:

CHAPTER ONE

I think I’m about to be arrested. Going through customs and passport control is nerve-racking enough to put me in panic attack mode at the best of times. And today is definitely not the best of times. I’m making my way through customs after a ten hour flight, sleep-deprived, and terrified of what is waiting for me at my destination.

Dan flashes his agency badge and a flirtatious smile at the stern-looking female custom’s officer, who I felt sure was about to demand to search my luggage or whisk me away for interrogation. The woman simply nods and steps back.

Crisis averted.

For now.

Dan’s good at using his Mediterranean good looks and charm to get what he wants. A wink from his chocolate brown eyes, a tanned hand pushed through his dark fringe of hair. It always works.

Grabbing my hand, Dan pretty much whisks us both off in the direction of the arrivals hall at Vancouver International Airport.

Phew. One problem solved. I’d allow myself a sigh of relief but there are still two major issues I have to face. One is trying to help solve a murder case, and the other is a tall, dark and handsome special agent called Charlie.

“Someone should meet us in the arrivals hall,” Dan says, as he steers the baggage trolley containing our cases with one hand, still keeping a firm grip of me with his other.

Someone. I hope it’s not…

As we reach the arrivals hall, I spot him straight away. Charlie is leaning against a wall, eyes focused on the doors Dan and I have just walked through. Suddenly, I’m very aware Dan is still holding my hand. The flicker of annoyance in Charlie’s eyes is obvious when he sees us, even from this far away. Hastily I try to tug my hand free from Dan’s but he’s holding on tight. I look up at my six-foot plus special agent work colleague and see him glaring right back at Charlie. Confrontational? Just a tad.

I tug harder and eventually gain my freedom. Gulping and trying not to freak out, I wander over to Charlie who has now pushed himself off the wall and is walking towards us.

“Hey,” Charlie says and manages to find a weak smile from somewhere and pin it on his gorgeous face. “Good flight?”

I open my mouth to speak but can’t seem to form the words. Charlie, my Charlie, is standing opposite me. The man I love but am no longer in a relationship with shuffles awkwardly from one foot to the other. We don’t know what to do. Hug? No – too familiar and comfortable for the circumstances. Shake hands? No - too formal and uncomfortable.

We settle on doing nothing.

“Brilliant flight, mate, thanks for asking,” Dan says, beaming from ear to ear. He’s doing it just to annoy Charlie, I know he is.

Charlie and Dan hate each other.

“I slept most of the way,” Dan continues, pointing the baggage trolley towards the exit as Charlie and I walk along, one on each side of him.

“Yes, I know,” I say, just because I feel I need to say something. “I was the one sitting next to you and listening to you snore your way across the Atlantic.”

Dan laughs. “Hey, I can sleep any place, no worries.”

Charlie scowls again. Even the scowl doesn’t detract from his classic dark good looks though. Add in his tall frame and broad shoulders, and I can understand why he’s catching the eye - and hearts - of most of the females in the vicinity. Mine included.

This is going to be a very long drive from the airport to downtown Vancouver. As we whizz along a highway – is that what they call them here in Canada? – Charlie is at the wheel of a flash SUV hire car. Dan claimed the passenger seat as soon as we’d reached the car, leaving me to sit in the back. The atmosphere is beyond knife-cutting. I think you’d probably need a chainsaw to cut through the heavy air in this particular vehicle at the moment.

“So, three murders then, yeah?” Dan asks Charlie as we head towards the waterfront area of the city. “All actors on this soap opera called North Shores?”

“That’s right,” Charlie replies stiffly. He glances in his rear-view mirror and for a second our eyes meet. I’m the first to look away. “Martha and I have already made a start on gathering background information, interviewing, all of the usual stuff. This is big. We’ve got to hit the ground running on this one. We have to solve the case and also try to prevent any more murders on the show.”

“Where are we staying?” Dan asks, looking out of the window. “I’ve never been to Vancouver before. Pretty amazing setting, with the harbour and the mountains.”

Charlie slows the car to join a long queue of downtown traffic. “We’re not here to sightsee,” he replies abruptly. “We’re here to track down a murderer.”

The city is bustling. I try to get my head around time zones. Western Canada is eight hours behind the UK. We left London at eleven this morning and it’s a ten hour flight. So, UK time now is about nine in the evening and Vancouver time is … I try to force my jetlagged brain to do the calculations, allowing for airport security and baggage reclaim time, and then helpfully spot a skyscraper with the time of day and the air temperature emblazoned on it. Just after two in the afternoon on this late May day, and it is sixteen degrees centigrade.

“Still got to sleep somewhere though, murder or not,” Dan replies with an edge to his voice. Silence falls and I stare out of the window. People are everywhere, all going about their business. Signposts point the way to the harbour and to places called Stanley Park and Gastown and lots of other tourist spots that, in different circumstances, I’d be itching to explore. I read up about Vancouver on the flight over here. Amazed at the fact the residents, if they feel so inclined, can whiz up to Grouse Mountain overlooking the city and enjoy a morning or afternoon of skiing. The thought of snow and skiing and mountains pulls me straight back to France where Dan and I have just finished working on a case together. Dan taught me to ski as a key part of the undercover part of the investigation. I was probably the worse student ever and ended up crashing into him a lot and we’d both land in a heap on the snow. Which cued more flirtatious behaviour from Dan. He just can’t help himself.

Eventually Charlie pulls into an underground parking garage in a reserved slot. “We’ve got three SUVs on hire out here,” he explains. “The next one over is ours too. Martha’s out in the other at the minute.”

The two guys tussle over carrying the cases. Dan wants to carry both but Charlie grabs mine and slams the boot of the car closed, narrowly missing Dan’s fingers.

“What’s this?” I ask spotting a piece of paper tucked under the windscreen wiper of the other SUV assigned to us for the duration of this investigation. “It’s not a parking ticket, is it? We are authorised to park here, aren’t we?” Reaching across I snag the note and open it.

If you now what god 4 yous, bac off.

“Er, guys, I think you should see this.”

Charlie takes the scrap of paper and they both read it.

“One thing’s for sure, whoever wrote this can’t spell for toffee,” Dan says.

I tut at his frivolity. This is serious. “It’s not their spelling abilities that concern me. We’ve only just arrived and already somebody knows who we are, why we’re here and where we’re staying. That’s not good, guys. They’re already warning us off.”

Charlie tucks the note into his jacket pocket. “Don’t worry about it. Come on, we’re all on the fifth floor.” We traipse across the brightly lit car park and I can’t help feeling on edge. Every sound makes me turn and peer at the numerous vehicles. Is somebody watching us right now? If they know we’re staying here, do they also know our apartment or room numbers? “Charlie, do the parking space numbers correspond with the accommodation by any chance?”

“No,” he replies as we step into the elevator.

At least whoever left the note can’t track us down to an actual apartment number then.

I push the button for the fifth floor, opting to stand in the middle of the elevator. Charlie on my left. Dan on my right. A part of me wants to leap on Charlie and kiss him senseless, but I can’t do that. Not anymore. We are ‘on a break’. The elevator pings and the doors open.

“This way,” Charlie says, leading us down a corridor. It’s all very neat and modern but it’s also bland. Grey carpet. White walls. Doors with numbers on them.

“What is this place?” Dan asks. “Apartments?”

Charlie nods. “Yeah, for long and short term rentals.”

“Wow, the agency has sprung for an apartment each? They’re not usually so generous.” Dan nods his approval.

Charlie, Dan and I all work for the Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency – otherwise known as the CCIA. It’s the agency for actors, pop stars, basically anybody famous, when they need a crime solving. Charlie and Dan are special agents. I’m a support officer. This is only my third official case for the CCIA and I’m still in training. I passed by entry-level stuff, now it’s all about learning on the job.

“No, there are only two apartments,” Charlie replies, stopping outside a door and fumbling for some keys in the pocket of his jeans. “Martha and…” He looks at me and my heart flickers. “Amber, you’re sharing this one with Martha. Here’s the key. Martha is out right now but settle in and then come down the hallway to apartment number two two three as soon as you can please.”

I nod and take the keys. I think I see him flinch slightly as our fingers touch.

“Hell,” Dan mutters. “Does that mean I’m sharing with you?”

Charlie nods. “Afraid so. It gets worse. They’re one bedroom apartments.”

Dan swears and shakes his head.

“Worse than that,” Charlie smirks. “There are three of us. The CCIA has rerouted an extra agent to help out as this case is a lot to take on. Jack Mathis arrived from New York this morning. He’s taken the other bed, which puts you on the couch in the apartment’s open plan living room. But, hey, you can sleep any place, no worries, right?” Charlie says sarcastically, throwing Dan’s earlier comment about sleeping on the flight right back at him.

Dan storms off down the corridor in the direction of the other apartment and I unlock the door to mine and slip inside. For a second I think it’s been ransacked then I remember Martha and tidiness are not the best of acquaintances. I haul my case onto the one bed which doesn’t look as though it’s had a herd of elephants trample across it, and flop down next to it.

I feel sick. When my ex-boyfriend had phoned to tell me he was leading this case and that we needed to talk, a part of me had hoped Charlie had reconciliation on his mind. Now that I’m here and Charlie is scowling all the time and avoiding so much as a handshake, I’m thinking the prognosis for rekindling our relationship is not good. The first sight he caught of me being Dan and I holding hands would not have helped matters on the reconciliation front. I gulp and get up to go in search of a glass of water. If Charlie ever finds out what happened in France… I shake my head, find a cupboard, a glass and turn on the tap. Charlie and Dan are sharing an apartment along with this Jack guy who I’ve never met before. What if Dan deliberately tells Charlie about France? He’s not above stirring things and Dan does not want Charlie and me to get back together. Dan wants me to be with him. I like Dan. But I still love Charlie.

Back in the bedroom, I debate if I have time for a shower. The guys will want to be cracking on with the case but I could use a quick freshen up. Working for the Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency has its perks. Sadly, first class air travel is not one of them. They wouldn’t even stretch to business class for the flight. Beside me, squashed into his economy seat, Dan had indeed slept like a baby. Whilst I, in a cold sweat, had watched movies without really watching them, attempted to read but only taken in a word here and there, and counted down the hours until I would see Charlie again. Switching between being excited at the prospect of seeing him, and completely dreading the prospect of seeing him.

We’d both been working on a case in France when Charlie had been pulled off it and sent to Los Angeles at the demand of top actress Diva Delilah. Dan had been sent to France to work with me as Charlie’s replacement and things had got complicated in Europe with Dan and I, as well as in America where Delilah had proclaimed to the world’s media that Charlie was, and I quote, ‘the love of her life’. Charlie denied anything happened between the two of them but my jealousy ran riot and Charlie suggested we take a break because he was frustrated by my ‘issues’. Yes, I admit, I struggle to trust men, which maybe is an ‘issue’ but Charlie is smart and sexy and funny. Diva Delilah is glamourous and rich and successful. They could be made for each other. And I’m… well, just me. A twenty-something woman with self-esteem issues, pale skin, strawberry blonde hair and an ambition to be someone, someday.

I decide to forget the shower for now and get down to some work. I hear the apartment door slam and go to see if it’s Martha. She breezes in. All six-foot blonde goddess. She’s dressed in skin-tight jeggings and a vest top with an off the shoulder jumper sitting at a jaunty angle. When I first met Martha, working on a case about a murdered popstar, I felt sure she had designs on Charlie.

“Hiya!” she says and bounds over to give me a hug. Martha and I parted, once that case was solved, on friendlier terms. Though I didn’t realise we were at the hugging stage. “Good flight?”

“Not really,” I say, returning her hug. “I flew over with Dan.”

She nods knowingly. “Ah. Right. Snoring? I’ve travelled with Dan on cases before. He’s a sweetie but not the best travelling companion.”

“So, Charlie fetched you guys from the airport, right?” she says, moving into the kitchen area, opening the fridge and pulling out a bottle of apple juice. “I bet that was fun.”

Martha knows all about my issues and my relationship with Charlie. By the way she’s speaking I’m also thinking she’s fully up to date on our relationship status. Or should I say, lack of relationship.

“Bad enough with the awkward vibe with you and Charlie, throw Dan into the mix and things get even more volatile.”

I lean against the breakfast bar which divides the living room portion of the apartment from the kitchen portion of it. “I take it you know Charlie and I are…”

“Broken up?”

“I was going to say on a break.”

She nods thoughtfully then takes a sip of the juice she’s poured into a glass. Placing the glass back on the countertop she says, “That makes more sense. The way he told me I got the feeling it wasn’t quite the end of the road.”

I frown. “Sorry?”

She hops onto a stool. “When Charlie told me, all he said was, Amber and I have things on pause for the moment. There’s some stuff we need to sort out. That’s what he said.”

“Things on pause.” I mull over her words.

“So, what do you make of Dan? He’s pretty yummy, right?”

“I guess so. I thought that you and Dan might have history.”

She laughs. A rich raucous laugh, which goes perfectly with her personality. “No way. Dan’s gorgeous but he’s not my type. Like I said, sweet, but not for me.”

Glancing at her watch, she then gulps down the rest of her drink and dumps the glass in the sink. “We’d better go meet with the guys. Three murders to solve and the body count might still be rising. We need to get this case sorted pronto.”

I follow her out of the apartment and along the corridor. The door to the guy’s place is ajar and before we step inside she turns and winks at me. “You and Charlie will sort things out between you. If I can help, just let me know.”

Inside their apartment, Dan is lounging on the sofa, his unpacked suitcase sitting by the coffee table. Charlie is in the kitchen making coffee and a guy I don’t know is tapping away on a laptop. That must be Jack, the guy from New York that Charlie mentioned earlier. Because of that, I expect him to speak with an American accent when we exchange greetings, but he doesn’t. He’s as English as I am and hails from Cumbria, not a million miles from my own home county of Derbyshire.

Charlie puts his mug down and strides into the lounge area. “Great, you’re here, let’s get everyone up to date on this case then.”

Martha flops onto the sofa next to Dan, and I take a chair on the opposite side of the coffee table. Charlie kneels on the floor and starts spreading notes across the glass surface. Jack takes the last remaining seat, next to Martha, flashing her a smile as he does so.

Charlie does a round of introductions which would make one minute speed dating sessions look positively leisurely. We all nod our hellos and then it’s straight down to work.

“The target appears to be a soap opera called North Shores. It’s been running for five seasons. Filmed in studios with various regular outdoor locations added into the mix. The main one is a flash mansion of a place sitting right on the waterfront on the city’s north shore,” he says.

With all the angst about seeing Charlie again and nerves about being part of such a major case, not to mention the crazy rush to get out here, I forgot to buy a notebook. I feel lost without somewhere to scribble down all the details of an investigation. I always like to buy a new notebook for each case. I’d have to anyway because the CCIA are very particular about case confidentiality as we’re dealing with the rich and the famous. My notebooks have to be handing in to agency HQ after each case is completed.

“All three murder victims were actors on the show. The first was Cate Villiers,” chips in Martha, taking over the case update. “Age twenty one. An unknown actress before she landed this prime role on North Shores. She only started on the show this season but quickly became popular with the fans. The gossip magazines loved her too, apparently. She died when the brakes failed on the car she was driving and she crashed off a hilltop road.”

“But get this,” adds Jack. “The car she was driving wasn’t hers. It belonged to her co-star Ed Kingston. He was one of the many eye candy guys on North Shores. Age twenty six. Former jeans and aftershave model. He’d been on the show for a few years. Big fan base. Very popular with the ladies.”

“Cate had borrowed his car because her own was in the garage for repairs,” Charlie says, taking up the story again. “But she lost control of the vehicle and it went off the road, crashing down a hill. Within twenty four hours though, Ed turned up dead too. Found by an early morning jogger, he was washed up on a beach outside the city. Confirmed as drowning by force, not an accident.”

I flinch at the news. Murder cases are tough to deal with. I suppose the other agents have grown used to it but I haven’t, not yet. I doubt I ever will.

“And finally, we have Maurice Fabio,” Charlie continues. “He’d been on North Shores since the start of the show. Over the years he’d made no secret of his battle with alcohol but he claimed to have been sober for the past two years. He died on the same day as Ed Kingston. Initial verdict was suicide. A bottle of whisky, a bottle of painkillers, even a suicide note. He was found dead in the bath by his cleaner.”

“So, was Ed the original target if it was his car Cate was driving when it went off the road?” Dan asks.

Charlie doesn’t even look at him as he replies. “Seems that way.”

“Do the three victims have anything in common other than being on the show?” Martha asks.

“Only the stuff you’d expect,” Charlie replies. “They all live here in the city. They have mutual friends via the show and working in TV. Other than that, nothing else has come up on our radar yet.”

“So, who would stand to gain from these deaths?” Jack asks, his expression clouded with concentration. “Certainly not the production company. All of this must have affected the show’s ratings, and not in a good way. I know North Shores is popular, but surely people won’t be queuing up to work on the show in the current circumstances. Not with everyone wondering who’s going to turn up dead next.”

“Somebody obviously has it in for the programme if they’re systematically killing off its stars. The money guys behind the show are in a panic, the cast are fearing for their lives and the fans are sobbing outside the filming locations, leaving flowers, cards and gifts,” Charlie replies.

“What about suspects?” Dan asks. I know he doesn’t wish he had a notebook like I do. Dan never writes anything down. I can’t understand how he remembers everything. Even Charlie has a notebook. My eyes skim across to Charlie. He’s wearing jeans and a plain blue shirt. His short dark hair is in need of a trim and looks sexily dishevelled at the front. My fingers ache to reach out and touch his arm. But I can’t.

“Nothing much showing up as yet. We need to get down to this waterfront mansion and speak to the show’s director, a guy named William Denver, see what he can tell us re some leads. Oh, and Cate had an ex-boyfriend who might be worth having a chat with.” He hands around folders and I open mine to see a summary of the case, a list of contact numbers and sheets of information about the city, the show and the investigation.

“So, who is doing what?” Jack asks. He’s tall and solidly built with cropped dark blonde hair and a cheeky-chappy smile. I already like him. He seems friendly.

“Jack, you and Martha go down to the North Shores house and start interviewing the behind the scenes guys. Then we’ll all meet up for the chat with Denver.” Charlies gets to his feet, collecting up the various papers. “Amber and I will start with Cate’s ex. Let’s get going then, guys. Keep each other updated with any news you get along the way. Contact numbers are in the folder. Several times each day I’ll arrange a time and place for us all to meet, assess where we’re at and plan our next move. OK?”

Charlie turns to Dan and, as though he’s an afterthought, adds, “Stone, you can interview the victim’s families.” Most of the time Charlie calls Dan by his surname, Stone. Dan tends to refer to Charlie as Charlie Boy. Sometimes I think they’re more like bickering boys in the school playground than highly-trained special agents.

Martha gets to her feet and places a hand on Charlie’s shoulder. “I do love it when you’re in masterful mode.”

Oh, did mention Martha is a huge flirt? I think she’s probably on a par with Dan on that front.

“What about the note?” I ask, edging forward and planting my elbows on my knees.

“What note?” Jack checks.

“There was a threatening note left on the windscreen of one of the SUVs in the parking garage downstairs,” I explain. “Charlie, you’ve got it, right?”

He gets the note, unfolds it and drops it on the table so everyone else can read it. “It’s nothing. I’m not wasting time getting surveillance installed to see who is leaving these, and there’s no point moving to another apartment block, they’ll only track us there as well if they want to. We’ve got more important things to be getting on with.”

“Interesting,” Martha says, tapping a fingernail against her cheek as she reads the note. “So, it looks like they know an awful lot more about us than we do about them.”

“We know they can’t spell,” Dan chips in, and throws me a wink.

Charlie claps his hands together. “Then let’s track ‘em down and find out all about them.” He heads off to what I presume is the bedroom. Maybe he’s going to get changed or he’s looking for car keys or something. Whatever the reason, he’s vacated the room for a moment and it gives me a chance to see if anyone will swap with me. I don’t want to have to work this case with Charlie. It’s so awkward between us at the moment. My stomach clenches at how good things used to be, and now we’re reduced to this. Not knowing what to say or do around each other. He could have paired himself off with Martha or Jack. OK, I get that he wouldn’t want to work beside Dan, but he didn’t have to choose me…

I grip Martha’s arm. “Why don’t you work with Charlie? I’ll work with Jack.”

Jack looks momentarily confused. “Am I missing something here?”

“Yes,” Dan and Martha both chorus.

“Care to enlighten me?” he asks with a questioning raise of his eyebrows.

“Amber and Charlie have a thing. Well, I should say, they used to have a thing,” Martha begins.

“And then Charlie screwed it up, so now they don’t have a thing,” Dan helpfully finishes.

“I thought Charlie was involved with that actress,” Jack says cautiously. “You know, the gorgeous one called Delilah. I saw it in the papers. She said he was the love of her life. Lucky devil.”

I stare at my feet and an awkward silence hangs in the room for a few seconds.

Jack catches on. “Ah, so Delilah was the catalyst for the two of you splitting up. Did they really have a thing though or was it all for show, a part of some case?”

“Charlie claims the latter, but we’re not convinced,” Dan chips in. “I mean, come on, Delilah is stunning.”

Martha slips an arm around my shoulder. “And what’s Amber? A troll?”

“Of course not. I didn’t mean that,” Dan actually looks embarrassed at Martha twisting his words.

“Boy, this case is going to be confusing,” Jack says with a shake of his head. “And not just because we’re dealing with three murders instead of one. The relationship dynamic between you guys is crazy.”

“Whatever,” Martha chimes, heading for the door. “Jack, you’re with me. Let’s get going.”

Jack follows her out of the room, shaking his head and chuckling to himself. I turn pleading eyes on Dan. He doesn’t want me to get back with Charlie so surely he’ll swap, won’t he? Not that I want to be the one to interview the relatives of the deceased, I shudder at the thought, but right now, it might be preferable to having to spend time alone with Charlie. I smile at him and before I can even get to ask the question, he’s replying.

“Sure. I’ll swap,” he says, slipping an arm around my shoulders. “Consider me your knight in shining armour.”

I’m about to thank him profusely when Charlie walks back into the room, sees Dan’s arm around my shoulders and stops in his tracks. “No.”

“What?” Dan asks as I try to edge away from him.

“No swapping case allocations.” Charlie picks up two sets of car keys. “Amber, you’re with me.” He tosses one bunch of keys to Dan. “There’s another hire car in the underground car park here. You take that one. The registration is on the hire company’s key fob.”

Dan sighs and heads for the door.

“Let’s make a move then, shall we?” Charlie says to me, gesturing towards the door.

Sugar.

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noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 12:50:00 +0000

In The Stars, a romantic comedy celebrity mystery, is currently available via Reading Deals to read for FREE! All you have to do in exchange for your free read is leave an honest review for the book over on Amazon. Simple as that.

READ & REVIEW THIS BOOK FREE ON READING DEALS

Not sure? Read on for more about the book, plus an extract:

In The Stars

"Addictive new series, approach only if you are willing to read into the early hours of the morning!!!"
Chicks That Read

'Humorous romantic cozy mystery in the world of the rich and famous'

Amber Reed’s at work making up the horoscopes for the local newspaper and wishing for some excitement in her life, when she gets a phone call offering her just that.

Plunged into the middle of a celebrity murder investigation she’s desperately trying to convince the scarily handsome special agent assigned to solve the case that she can help him catch the killer.

Amber’s soon battling something far more dangerous than she could ever have imagined – and it has nothing to do with the equally scary chemistry fizzing between her and special agent Charlie.

Has Amber’s wish for more excitement in her life landed her in big trouble – or is her fate written in the stars?

From the reviews:

“The start of what promises to be a very good series, Amber Reed (also known as Madam Zamber, astrologer in residence on the local paper) is about to get involved in murder!”

“Amber Reed's life isn't that exciting. During the day she works as a horoscope writer for a local paper and in the evenings she's a bar maid in a pub. However, Amber's life is suddenly shaken up when she is contacted by her ex-boyfriend Ennis McKarthy, who is now a famous actor, after his brother Joel has been found dead. Amber immediately goes to Ennis to see what has happened: was it an accident, suicide, or perhaps murder? Amber quickly meets Charlie Huxton, an agent for the CCIA (Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency) who has been hired by Ennis to get to the bottom of things. Yet, Ennis doesn't trust Charlie 100%, so he asks Amber to keep track of things and follow Charlie. At first, Amber isn't so sure, but as the plot thickens and as she gets to know Charlie, she simply no longer can't seem to stay away until the case has been solved.”

“I quickly warmed to the main protagonist, Amber, and leading man Charlie has a bit of a James Bond feel to him which I think numerous female readers will definitely enjoy!”

READ AN EXTRACT:

Chapter One

“What kind of excitement are Gemini’s going to have this week?” I ponder, tapping my fingers against the keyboard.

I’m a third of the way through making up the horoscopes for this week’s local paper. Aries are going to get news of a fantastic job opportunity. Capricorns will receive some kind of windfall. But what about Gemini? I always like to give my Madam Zamber horoscope column an upbeat feel – after all, nobody reads their star signs to get depressed right?

My fingers hover over the computer keys as I debate on Gemini’s fate. I’m a Gemini so this one better be especially good; it’s been a rough week.

My phone, nestled somewhere in the depths of my bag, starts playing a chart tune at full volume. When I eventually find it I check the caller display and see Ennis’ name.

Ennis and I haven’t spoken for a while but I know he came home last week after he’d finished working on his latest movie, he sent me a text. He probably wants to meet for a coffee and a catch up. It’s strange; to me Ennis is, well, just Ennis. I don’t think of him as a heartthrob actor, just my ex, my university boyfriend, who I meet up with for a chat whenever he’s in Palstone.

Time for a little break from the horoscopes. I hit the answer button.

“Hi, how’s things?” I ask, leaning back in my chair.

There’s nothing but silence on the other end of the line.

“Ennis?” I sit up, instantly concerned. “Are you there? Is something wrong?”

His voice is so quiet I can barely hear him. “Joel’s dead,” he says.

“What?” I shout, leaping to my feet and earning myself a look of curiosity from the other two members of staff at The Palstone Courier. I lower my voice. “How? What happened?”

“We don’t know yet,” he replies, his voice heavy with emotion. “But the police are saying he died in suspicious circumstances.”

I gulp. “You mean murder?”

“Look, Amber can you please come over?” Ennis says. “Now? Please? I need to ask you a huge favour.”

I grab my jacket and bag. “On my way.”

The drive to Ennis’ place feels like it’s taking forever when, in reality, I pull up outside the security gates in less than ten minutes. I push the Attention button on the keypad and Siobhan’s voice crackles through the intercom.

“It’s Amber,” I say nervously.

“Come through,” she replies in a cold voice. I imagine she isn’t pleased Ennis has called me to ask for a favour, whatever the circumstances might be.

Siobhan is Ennis’ girlfriend. I’m not her favourite person. I suppose it’s because Ennis and I were once an item and we still keep in touch. He’s still got a special place in my heart, even after all these years.

I climb into my car and the huge metal gates start to slide open as I edge forward. Ennis’ house is set back from the road for privacy. He loves being an actor but struggles with the being famous side of things. He faces a constant battle, forever trying to fiercely guard his private life from the frenzy of paparazzi that follow him around.

My thoughts turn to the phone call and a thousand questions pop into my head.

Joel’s dead? When? Where? How did it happen? Why?

Joel is – sorry, was – Ennis’ younger brother. They didn’t get on and in the past year or so Joel had pretty much done everything possible to make Ennis’ life difficult. Which is why I was stunned when I’d had a text from Ennis last week saying we must catch up soon, and he’d also mentioned that Joel would be coming to stay for a few days.

If Joel was visiting and he’d been found dead then that means he’d died either here at Ennis’ house or pretty close by. The thought sends chills quivering through me.

This is a sleepy part of Derbyshire. We have fun runs, school fetes and jumble sales.

Not murders.

The only excitement in the past few weeks has been a couple of minor earth tremors. As the village is set on unstable ground on the edge of the moors, surrounded by hills, some creepy ancient standing stones and a very active quarry, which blasts the rocks on a regular basis, the tremors have largely gone unnoticed though. The local gossips would much rather talk about Ennis coming home than minor earth tremors. The locals love Ennis.

Driving round to the side of the house near the guest wing and the garages I park my little seen-better-days car between Ennis’ BMW and Siobhan’s gleaming sporty number.

Siobhan appears in the doorway. “Come though, we’re in the kitchen.”

I follow her into the house. “What happened to Joel?” I whisper to her, not sure I actually want to hear what happened. I still can’t believe he’s dead.

“We don’t know,” she replies, repeating the same phrase Ennis had said earlier. “It could have been an accident or suicide or…”

Her words drift off into nothing and we both know which option she’s left unspoken.

Murder.

Was it an accident? It would be incredibly sad, but totally believable. Did he commit suicide? From bits I’ve seen in the national newspapers Joel had been in something of an unstable state of mind lately. So suicide could be a possibility too. But murder – no, surely not.

Ennis is sitting at the kitchen table. Even the angst and despair clouding his blond features right now can’t diminish the good looks which got him voted Sexiest Guy On TV earlier this year. He isn’t just some flash-in-the-pan heartthrob; he’s one of Britain’s best-loved actors, a gentleman, one of the good guys.

Unlike his brother Joel. Yeah, he stirred things up, caused trouble but I still can’t believe somebody hated Joel enough to actually kill him. I can’t believe a murder has taken place in Palstone.

I hover awkwardly, wanting to give Ennis a comforting hug but feeling, under Siobhan’s glare, as though I shouldn’t.

“Cup of tea?” Siobhan asks and I nod. I don’t really want a drink but it seems impolite to refuse.

“I’m so sorry,” I manage to say and before I know it Ennis is on his feet and wrapping me in a fierce hug.

It’s just short of ten years since Ennis and I dated when we were at university together. We parted amicably and have stayed friends since. Right now my heart aches for him. I know Ennis will be hurting despite the animosity between him and Joel. And, I suspect, he’ll also be blaming himself for what happened to Joel while he was in Palstone. That’s what Ennis does, it’s who he is. He’s tough on himself but would do anything to help his friends or family, whatever the circumstances.

We sit at the dining table as Siobhan places a teapot in front of us. I like the kitchen in this house, it’s my favourite room. For such a generous property the kitchen is nice and cosy. There’s a cherry red Aga, reclaimed floorboards and a scrubbed pine table. It’s welcoming and homely.

“What happened?” I say, my hand shaking as I reach for a mug.

“The local police called round first thing this morning,” Ennis starts to explain. “They said a body had been found up at the quarry. It was identified as Joel by the stuff in his wallet. They said they’re treating the death as suspicious. They’ll be an investigation.”

“Did he fall? Was he in a fight? Stabbed?” I don’t know why but the questions are pouring out of me. I’m horrified and, at the same time, intrigued by what happened to Joel.

“We don’t know yet,” Ennis says again with a shake of his head. He shifts in his seat and pushes both hands through his hair causing it to stick up in all directions. He looks more in need of a very large brandy than the mug of tea Siobhan is offering him.

“Who found the body?” I ask.

“One of the quarry workers,” he replies. “The guy had just started his shift this morning.”

“What on earth was Joel doing up at the quarry?”

“We have no idea,” Siobhan replies. “The policeman said that they estimate his time of death to have been around midnight.”

“Did he say anything before he went out last night?” I ask, looking from Ennis to Siobhan. “Mention where he was going? If he was meeting somebody?”

“He only arrived here a few days ago.” Ennis lifts his shoulders in a dejected way. “He didn’t know anybody.” Getting to his feet he starts pacing the room.

“Who else knows about this?” I wonder how long it will be before word gets out and Palstone is invaded by TV news crews and the rest of the world’s media.

“Nobody yet,” he says. “The guy who found Joel didn’t know who he was.”

“He obviously doesn’t read the trashy newspapers,” Siobhan mutters.

“How come Joel was staying here?” I ask. “I know he’d been making things difficult for you lately with all the stuff in the papers.”

Ennis tries his best to stay out of the papers and gossip mags. Joel was the complete opposite. As soon as Ennis’ career took off when he was offered the lead role in a period drama series Joel latched on to the benefits having a famous brother brings. He milked that connection endlessly and in the worst possible ways.

“Our mum asked me to let him come and stay. Thought it might help Joel get back on track.” He takes a deep breath then lets it out slowly, trying to compose himself.

“You don’t think there’s a real possibility Joel might have, er, taken his own life do you?” I ask Ennis softly.

“No way,” Siobhan answers for him. “Joel was way too selfish to do that.”

“It’s a possibility,” Ennis says briefly flashing a look at Siobhan. “I just need to know what happened to him and why, so we can get on with the funeral arrangements and put him to rest. Finally, he’ll be at peace.”

He stops pacing and sighs. “Right now, yeah, I’m freaked by the whole thing but I’m also terrified because we don’t know why he died. We don’t know if his passing had anything to do with us. We have to find out what happened and whether any of us are in danger. He might have died because of me, because of who I am.”

He looks close to tears. Getting to my feet I place a hand over his. “I’m sure nothing like that is behind what happened to Joel.”

“I just wish I could have helped him to…” Ennis starts to say before Siobhan shushes him and hands him his tea.

“Don’t go blaming yourself, darling,” she says. “There was nothing you could have done.”

He nods but doesn’t look convinced. “We asked the police if there was any chance they could hold off from making an official statement to the media about the case. They’ve agreed to work on the investigation quietly for the time being.”

“They’ve given us a time limit though,” chips in Siobhan. “They can’t keep his death under wraps for long.”

Ennis turns to me. “Which is where I need your help. On the phone I said I needed to ask if you’d do me a huge favour.”

I nod.

“Well, I’m bringing in some specialists. There’s an agency, they’re called the CCIA.”

I frown, wondering what the letters stand for.

“Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency,” Ennis explains without me asking. “CCIA for short. Anyway, they work on cases involving famous people. Cases where discretion is required and a speedy resolution is needed. Some of my friends in the business have used them before. They’re sending a guy over here today. Charlie Huxton. One of their best agents they said.”

“So he’ll help sort out what happened with Joel in super quick time?” I nod encouragingly. “That sounds like a good idea.”

“But we don’t know this guy at all. Yes, he’s supposed to be very good but even so…” Ennis stops talking, puts his mug down and starts pacing back and forth again. “Basically, I don’t trust a stranger to handle this case on his own.” He turns to face me. “Which is why I want you to work with him.”

“Me?” Suddenly my mouth is dry and I struggle to swallow. “I’d love to help you out in any way I can, Ennis, you know that, but I’m not a crime investigator.”

“I know and I’m not asking you to be. He’ll take care of all that side of things. All I am asking is for you to shadow this Charlie guy while he’s doing the investigating. I know they’re saying he’s one of their best agents. Totally trustworthy and all of that. Been with the agency for five years and he’s ex-army special ops. Regardless, I want someone I trust keeping an eye on him.”

My stomach, already churning from the news of Palstone’s possible first murder, now goes into freefall. “Is this kind of thing even allowed?”

“We’re not sure,” Siobhan says. She chews nervously on her bottom lip. “I told Ennis it wouldn’t work.”

“I’m going to ask if he’ll let you tag along with him on the case,” Ennis says, determination in his voice. “But if he says no…”

“You still want me to do it anyway,” I finish.

He nods. “Just without him knowing about it.”

Is he serious? “Ennis, he’s a private investigator or special agent or whatever they call themselves at this CCIA place. I think he’s going to notice if I attempt to follow him.”

Siobhan nods. “I know. That’s what I said but he’s insisting he wants someone to keep an eye on this agency guy, just for a bit of peace of mind.”

Ennis runs both hands through his hair, an anguished expression on his face. “Oh, Lord! I’m going to have to tell our mum and dad about Joel, aren’t I?”

My heart goes out to him and I know I can’t let him down. This agency guy will no doubt spot my attempts to spy on him within the first ten minutes of the investigation but I know I’m going to have to try. For Ennis.

I nod. “OK, I’ll do it.”

Making my way back to my car, I feel numb, my mind going over and over what’s just happened. The earlier spring sunshine has disappeared and a cool breeze tugs at my ponytail.

Joel is dead.

I still can’t believe it. A noise makes me spin round, almost falling over. All this murder and investigation business has put me on edge.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to make you jump,” Bert says, walking towards me.

Bert is the caretaker at Ennis’ place. He keeps an eye on the house while Ennis is away filming for months at a time. He also deals with all the repairs and maintenance side of things and looks after the grounds which stretch to about an acre in total.

I try to get my breathing under control. “Hi, Bert. How’re things?”

“Not bad. Not bad at all, thanks. I’ve got my daughter Tina staying with me for a few weeks. The ex-wife sent her over. Said she’d been up to no good, hanging out with dodgy types at home. She’s been no trouble here though.”

He scratches the back of his neck, looking bemused before continuing, “Reckon it’s doing her some good living here in the middle of nowhere, calmed her down a bit. Tina would never have agreed to stay though if I didn’t work for Ennis. Desperate to meet him she was. Completely start-struck when I took her up to the house the other day.”

He pauses for breath and nods across the parking area. “What’s with the police car that was here earlier? I saw it go past the gatehouse and was worried something had cracked off but I didn’t want to put my nose in where it’s not wanted.”

I link an arm through Bert’s turning him away from the house and across the nearest expanse of lawn. “Best stay out of the way a little while longer I think. Look, there’s no easy way to say it so I’ll just come right out. The police were here because Joel is dead. Found up at the quarry. Nobody knows what happened.”

Bert releases my arm and steps away from me looking stunned. “Dead? Joel?”

I nod. “Yes. Did you get much chance to meet him? He only arrived here a couple of days ago didn’t he?”

“Yeah,” he says. “I met him. He was in the kitchen when I took Tina in to meet Ennis. She loved it. Meeting them both. Took some of those selfie things with each of them she did on her fancy phone. She’ll be devastated about Joel.” He nodded towards the house. “How’s Ennis taken the news?”

“I think he’s still in shock at the moment. He’s asked for some specialist undercover operations guy to be brought in to investigate what happened. Ennis, naturally, wants to keep things out of the papers as much as possible.”

Bert nods. “Of course. The secret is totally safe with me. I’ll just tell Tina that Joel’s left instead. Is there anything I can do to help?”

Good question. “I don’t know.”

Joel is dead, in suspicious circumstances.

Some special agent spy-type guy called Charlie is on his way to solve the case.

I’ve got the task of keeping an eye on him throughout the investigation, possibly without him getting suspicious about what I’m up to.

And the locals, the world’s media and Ennis’ army of adoring fans cannot, absolutely cannot, get a whiff about any of this.

My phone rings and I check caller ID. It’s my mum. I take a deep breath and click the answer button.

And so the lying begins…

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Launch Day Sneak Peek - Valentine's Romantic Comedy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 12:27:00 +0000

Today is launch day for my latest ebook Remember When and if you grab a copy for just 99c/ 99p you'll get special

BONUS CONTENT for FREE.

REMEMBER WHEN...

Harriet’s life is chaotic.

Now, fighting to keep the place from financial ruin takes all the time and energy they can muster.

And don’t even get her started on her anxiety-inducing teenage daughter who wants to go to the college Valentine’s Day dance with the local bad boy.

Can they rekindle the romance or has the spark fizzled out and died, never to be lit again?

SPECIAL BONUS CONTENT

You’ll also receive:

· * Four short stories with romance at their heart.

· * Exclusive sneak peek extracts from four romantic comedy novels by Zanna Mackenzie.

· * PLUS – a FREE romantic mystery book!

Sneak Peek.....

Chapter One

Alexa polished off the last bit of her muffin. “So, what are your plans for Valentine’s Day then?”

“I’ll be working, while Ollie attempts to charm about forty women,” Harriet replied, her own chocolate chip muffin untouched on her plate. She’d lost her appetite lately.

“Forty eh?” Alexa giggled. “That’s ambitious even for Ollie.”

“I don’t mind. It’s part of his job.”

“Say that as if you mean it,” Alexa challenged. She looked closely at Harriet as she sipped her coffee. “Things are okay with you and Ollie, aren’t they?”

“You guys have been working like crazy since you took on the hotel from his parents,” Alexa reasoned. “It must be tough.”

“Also what?” prompted Alexa.

Alexa reached her hand across the table and placed it on top of Harriet’s. “You know you can tell me anything, but if you aren’t ready to talk, then I understand.”

Alexa let out a long breath, puffing her fringe out of her eyes. “Have you said anything about all of this to Ollie?”

Harriet shook her head. “No. He’s got so much on at the moment. He looks tired and harassed enough as it is, and I don’t want to add to his already sky-high stress levels.”

“Even so, if you’re worried you should try to…”

“It’ll just be from all the demands of the hotel, he’ll be exhausted. You know how he is. You two will be fine. I’m certain of it.”

“Ouch!”

“Oh no!” she gasped, racing to his side, hand to her mouth. “Are you all right?”

“Sit down and let me take a look at your eye,” she commanded.

He did as instructed and she reached for his hand, gently pulling it away from his face.

“My umbrella really did get you, didn’t it?” She winched. “Your eye is all bloodshot and watering quite badly. Let me get you to the doctors. It could be iritis.”

The man managed a weak laugh. “Iritis? You just made that up. There’s no such thing.”

“I’ve recently become a local again,” he replied, covering his eye with his hand and grimacing again. “I grew up around here and moved back a few weeks ago.”

“Okay. Are you registered with the health clinic in town yet?”

He nodded.

“Right, we’re off to the doctors with you then, are you all right to walk?”

He looked her up and down through his one good eye and replied, “I can see you perfectly well, but I confess I hadn’t spotted the fact you’re wearing a wedding ring. Sorry if I offended you.”

He got to his feet and swayed alarmingly.

“Steady on!” Harriet reached for his arm and peered nervously at him. “Do you feel dizzy?”

“A little,” he admitted. “My eye is throbbing like crazy. Maybe you’re right and I’d best get it seen to.”

Linking her arm through his so she could ensure he didn’t topple over, she said, “Let’s go. Now.”

Want to read more? Fantastic!

Find this book on Amazon for just 99c/99p today and get all of your FREE bonus content too...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 29 Jan 2016 00:00:00 +0000

My Funny Valentine

The Lizzie Hart Mysteries Series #4

I'm a huge fan of Caroline Fardig's Lizzie Hart Mysteries - they combine romantic comedy with an intriguing mystery to solve - plus, Lizzie and Blake are one of my favourite fictional couples in the chick lit mystery genre, the other being Sophie and Luke in Kate Johnson's Sophie Green Mysteries. So, with this in mind, I'm delighted to share that Caroline has just launched the latest book in the Lizzie Hart series - yay! I've read it and I LOVED it. Want to find out more? Read on...

My Funny Valentine

All Lizzie wants for Valentine’s Day is for her fiancé

NOT to be the prime suspect in a murder investigation.

Is that too much to ask?

Lizzie Hart is finally living the dream. She’s engaged to the love of her life, Blake Morgan, and more importantly, she hasn’t even given a thought to dead bodies or murder investigations for an entire year. The only hurdle in Lizzie and Blake’s way to wedded bliss is introducing their polar opposite families to each other at their engagement party.

Blake’s parents have thrown a lavish shindig, but the fun is quickly over when Blake’s brother arrives with an unexpected guest, the woman who left Blake at the altar years ago. If that weren’t enough drama for one evening, Lizzie and Blake find the town mayor dead and the detectives on the case put Blake at the top of their suspect list.

It’s a race against the clock for Lizzie and Blake to find the real killer before the police decide to lock Blake up and throw away the key.

Grab this book now on:

Amazon USA

Amazon UK

Valentine's Day Romance Pre-order Bargain

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 12:07:00 +0000

REMEMBER WHEN

Harriet’s life is chaotic.

And don’t even get her started on her anxiety-inducing teenage daughter who wants to go to the college Valentine’s Day dance with the local bad boy.

When Harriet accidentally pokes a handsome stranger in the eye with her umbrella and has to rush him off to get medical help, she finds herself spending more and more time with him. He’s funny, charming and attentive, everything her husband Ollie used to be… and Harriet feels her life starting to spiral even further out of control.

As the Country Oaks prepares for a hectic Valentine’s weekend, packed with loved-up guests, Harriet and Ollie are forced to face the realities of their life, their marriage and their future together.

Can they rekindle the romance or has the spark fizzled out and died, never to be lit again?

SPECIAL BONUS CONTENT

You’ll also receive:
• Four short stories with romance at their heart.
• Exclusive sneak peek extracts from four romantic comedy novels by Zanna Mackenzie.
• PLUS – a FREE romantic mystery book!

Find this book on Amazon for just 99c/99p

Celebrity Chicklit Mystery

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 00:00:00 +0000

PAST PERFECT

The latest book in my Amber Reed romantic comedy celebrity mystery series is now out. Past Perfect is set in Vancouver - Canada's answer to Hollywood - and follows amateur sleuth Amber as she gets to grips with a new case to solve, as well as trying to sort out her on-off relationship issues with Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency (CCIA) super sexy special agent Charlie.

About the book:

"Addictive new series, approach only if you are willing to read into the early hours of the morning!!!"
Chicks That Read

'Humorous romantic cozy mystery set in the world of the rich and famous'

One soap star death is a tragedy, but three all in the same week, that’s a case for the CCIA – otherwise known as the Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency.

Amber Reed, the agency's newest support officer, is sleuthing again! This time she's sent to Vancouver, Canada’s answer to Hollywood, where soap opera North Shores is filmed. She needs to track down who is targeting and killing the show’s stars – and fast.

Alongside her, making up the rest of the CCIA team for this high profile case, are man-eater and troublemaker Martha, agency bad boy Dan and Amber’s kind-of-ex-boyfriend, special agent Charlie.

Can they catch the killer before another star is murdered? Will Charlie and Amber kiss and make up or is it over between them, this time for good? Will sworn enemies Charlie and Dan manage to resist gunning for each other?

The team need to find a way to set aside their differences and focus on the investigation because this time there’s not just one murder case to solve but three!

From the reviews for this series of books:

“I quickly warmed to the main protagonist, Amber, and leading man Charlie has a bit of a James Bond feel to him which I think numerous female readers will definitely enjoy!”

"Excellent book could not put it down. The combination of murder mystery AND romance,brilliant."

"I loved this book; it's a fun, mysterious, romantic, page turner that keeps you curious through-out. Amber is a loveable character that you get to know quickly, and I loved the combination of a murder-mystery with the lovely romcom element of a fabulous chick lit novel. I've enjoyed all of Zanna's books, but this is my favourite so far, she has given Amber an engaging and chatty voice so it's a bit like reading an email from a friend recounting an adventure."

Get this book on Amazon

New to the series?

Get On Trial (Amber Reed Book 1.5) FREE via my website

To get your free book simply enter your email address on this secure mailchimp link and then I'll send you the special link to download your copy of the book - simple as that!

Chicklit Celebrity Chef Mystery - With Baking!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 14:22:00 +0000

Lizzie Carter desperately needed to escape from the disaster of her old life but her new one is

shaping up to be even worse!

After Lizzie's new boss, celebrity chef Armand, is stabbed in his own kitchen, Lizzie finds herself at the top of the suspect list.

Determined to clear her name she’s forced to enlist the services of her new neighbour, Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency (CCIA) special agent Jack Mathis, who’s been suspended from his duties for reasons unknown.

Given his reputation, Lizzie figures it’s best not to ask too many questions of him; she only needs the rogue agent to help her catch Armand’s real killer. The fact that Jack is a good-looking guy is not lost on her, but he’s clearly also trouble. And Lizzie’s got more than enough of that in her life already.

Can Lizzie save herself from getting arrested and manage to resist her special agent sidekick’s considerable charms and gorgeous smile? Will they solve the culinary murder mystery or will her new life land her in a prison cell?

If you love fun cozy murder mysteries, with plenty of romance, comedy, intrigue and adventure, then don't miss out - grab your copy of Murder On The Menu today. Join Lizzie as she becomes an amateur sleuth battling to keep her freedom and her sanity - all while attempting to bake a cake that’s actually edible!

Get the book on Amazon

Authors Come Together For Book Sale Weekend Extravaganza

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 16:46:00 +0000

Loads of authors have got together and organised a special book sale extravaganza event this weekend on Facebook, with loads of books offers especially for you!

Head to the Facebook event page to discover some ebook bargains today

Find the book bargains event here

Christmas Fun, Mystery & Romance For 99c

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 09:56:00 +0000

Holiday Heist

Lizzie's plans for Christmas with her private investigator fiance are ruined when a movie star's priceless necklace is stolen from her suite at the posh Roseby Hotel...

ABOUT THE BOOK:

It’s Christmas Eve and Lizzie Carter’s been engaged for the grand total of one hour when her private investigator fiancé Jack announces he has a confession to make - their holiday season plans need to be put on hold so that Jack can take on a new case!

A priceless necklace has been stolen from the hotel bedroom of a movie star actress and the woman in question insists Jack’s the man to track it down and bring it back safely.

Lizzie decides to turn amateur sleuth and tag along to help Jack out – two heads have got to be better than one, right? Plus, she can’t miss out on a chance to get inside the fabulously exclusive Roseby Hotel and admire their amazing festive decorations.

Can they solve the mystery, catch the thief who masterminded the holiday heist, return the necklace to its rightful owner, and still get to celebrate Christmas Day as planned?

QUICK READ:

“I have a confession to make.” My fiancé-of-one-hour says as he walks back into my farmhouse kitchen.

I stop mixing the snowflake truffles I’m making for Christmas Day and look at him warily. “Oh?” The diamond engagement ring he just gave to me glistens on my finger. It’s all shiny and new and… well, exciting. “You’re not already married, are you? Hiding a wife somewhere?” I tease. “Or have you changed your mind about wanting to marry me and you want your gorgeous ring back?”

Jack walks over, slips his arms around my waist and nuzzles my ear. “Nope. Definitely not changed my mind, and no, I don’t have a wife, secret or otherwise.”

His hand snakes towards the mixing bowl, and I playfully tap it away. “Not until they’re finished! So, don’t keep me in suspense then, what’s your big confession?”

Jack steps back and runs a hand through his dark blonde hair. When he was a special agent for the Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency - otherwise known as the CCIA - he used to keep it closely cropped. Now, eighteen months after ditching the agency and setting up his own private investigator and security business, his hair is more casual and enticingly ruffled. He tilts his head towards the door. “You know that phone call I just took?”

My heart sinks. I have the dreadful feeling I know what he’s about to confess. “Oh, Jack, you didn’t, did you?”

Shooting me a smile I know is meant to sweeten my mood, he nods. “Sorry. I did. Look, I know tomorrow is Christmas Day and we have a whole family gathering thing planned with my brother and Emma and the kids, but work is work, I’m self-employed now, and this woman who called, well, she sounded pretty desperate.”

He’s right, I know he is, but still…it is Christmas.

“If I scoot over there right away, I might even have the case wrapped up before tomorrow’s big Mathis Family Festive Gathering,” he says persuasively, taking my hand and planting a string of kisses from fingertips to wrist.

I tingle inside, knowing he’s just trying to wheedle his way around me, but even so, his kisses are warm and inviting and so deliciously tempting. Pushing my thoughts back towards the issue at hand I reply, “You’re good, Jack Mathis, but even you’d be stretching it to solve a case in little more than twenty four hours!” I gently trace a finger over my beautiful engagement ring. “We were going to make our big announcement tomorrow.”

“And we still can,” he reasons. “Even if I have to work in the morning, I should be back in time for dinner, and then we can tell everybody we’re getting married.”

“OK.” I sigh. “What’s the case anyway?” A horrible thought pops into my head. “It’s not another murder, is it? I think the village has only just fully recovered from Armand’s death and, especially at this time of year, another one would be totally horrific and…”

Jack stops me mid-sentence. “Don’t worry. No murder this time around. It’s a stolen necklace at one of the posh hotels in the tourist area. An actress says her priceless family heirloom has vanished from her bedroom. She’s in a complete meltdown about it. I have to get over there and figure out what’s going on. Want to come with me? You could ditch the cake making for now and finish it later.”

“It’s not cake, it’s going to be snowflake truffles.” I glance at the mixing bowl. I’ve only just managed to create cakes and desserts which are actually edible. Before that they were either burnt on the top or raw inside.

Or both.

Which I why I chose this particular recipe. Even I can’t get it wrong.

“I really shouldn’t get involved,” I say to Jack. “I mean, it’s not like last time, when I was a suspect and we ended up figuring the case out together.”

Jack and I met when he was suspended from working for the CCIA for bending some rules to catch a killer. Whilst he was off work he came up to Cumbria from London so he could help his brother Frazer run Wellbeck Farm, whilst Frazer’s wife Emma had their third child. Wellbeck is just down the lane from my own much-smaller place, Eskdale Top, which I inherited from my Uncle Joe. A while back I used to be a waitress at a local restaurant to help make ends meet and my boss, celebrity chef Armand, was murdered. As I was the last member of staff to leave the kitchen on that night the police put me at the top of their suspects list. Jack helped clear my name and catch the real killer.

“I know, but you could still come along and help me out. The actress in question is staying at the Roseby,” he adds, knowing how much I love that particular hotel.

My chances of getting through its doors as a legitimate guest are zero due to its scarily high prices and its exclusive clientele, but I’ve read about it in magazines and have adored it from afar for ages. The Roseby nestles in the hills about the tourist honeypot of Delamere. It’s set in acres of grounds and has stunning views out over the lake. It’s also the place for the rich and famous to stay in this part of the beautiful Lake District.

“Come on, you know you want to see what the Roseby’s Christmas decorations are like,” he says with a cheeky grin, tugging at my hand invitingly.

He knows me so well.

I debate for almost a second and then shove the truffle mix in the fridge. I’ll finish it later.

“Oh, and did I mention the actress who rang me about the case is Arabella Saunders?” he says, revealing his trump card.

I stop stock still in the middle of the kitchen. “What? NO!” I gasp, coming over all fangirlish.

“Yep.” He nods, knowing he’s got me now.

“Give me five minutes to get changed,” I yell as I sprint for the stairs.

“You don’t need to change. You look great as you are,” Jack shouts after me.

“Jack,” I yell back, halfway up the staircase. “We’re talking the Roseby here! And Arabella Saunders. I can’t go in like this.” Glancing down at my scruffy jeans, fluffy slippers and one of Jack’s old sweatshirts, my cheeks colour at the very thought of turning up at the uber-smart hotel in this outfit.

He shrugs. “OK. You’ve got five minutes, and I’m clock-watching.”

Ten minutes later I arrive back in my rustic farmhouse kitchen wearing a mocha-coloured wool dress and brown knee-high boots. My blonde hair is brushed and pulled back into a neat ponytail – mainly because I haven’t got around to washing it yet today. I even managed to slick some lip gloss on whilst flying down the stairs without falling over and twisting my ankle in the process.

“Do I look OK?” I ask Jack, who is slumped on the battered sofa next to the Aga, checking something on his mobile.

He lifts his eyes from the phone and grins, getting to his feet. “Better than OK, I’d say. Definitely worth the extra five minutes waiting time,” he adds cheekily. “Come on, let’s get a move on. We’ve got a case to solve and a necklace to find. The Roseby awaits.”

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