Wishing you a very happy holiday season

It's hard to believe that the holiday season is upon us. 2022 has been a busy and wonderful year. I released two books, had the pleasure of interviewing many authors, spotlighted new books, and was a host for book tours and blitzes. Thank you so much for being a part of this amazing journey!

Wishing you a magical and warm holiday season filled with love, joy, and happiness.

   Cherie

Book Blitz: Miss Indecisive by Elise Eliot

I am so excited that MISS INDECISIVE: A ROMANTIC COMEDY by Elise Eliot is available now and that I get to share the news!

If you haven’t yet heard about this wonderful book, be sure to check out all the details below.

This blitz also includes a giveaway for a $10 Amazon GC’s courtesy of Rockstar Book Tours. So if you’d like a chance to win, check out the giveaway info below.

 

About The Book:

Title: MISS INDECISIVE: A ROMANTIC COMEDY

Author: Elise Eliot

Pub. Date: December 10, 2022

Publisher: Elise Eliot

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 312

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon

Read for FREE with a Kindle Unlimited Membership! 

Lesson #1: Don’t fall in love with two guys at the same time.

Vanessa Hunt prefers to stay in her 5th grade classroom and avoid relationships entirely, so when she meets not just one, but two, handsome strangers in the same week, it starts to throw her entire life off balance.

How is she supposed to avoid Jack, aka Principal Hottie, when he walks right into her school as the new interim principal? Too bad she’s made a rule for herself that she will never date someone she works with ever again.

Then, there’s fireworks when she meets Rishi at her roommate’s wedding. Only problem is: Rishi’s family wants him to marry someone else. When he finds himself torn between tradition and his heart, he will have to decide how many rules he’s willing to break for love.

Turns out, one teacher + one principal + one doctor = an equation that is nothing but trouble. When Vanessa starts having feelings for them both, she learns that falling – in love and in life – can really turn your whole world upside down. Will she figure things out before she ends up losing them both?

 

 

TikTok Teaser:

@eliseeliotauthor When Vanessa meets Rishi, she’s unprepared for the feelings it stirs up. She has no idea how much it’s going to turn her world upside down. #booktok #sneakpeek #excerpt #sweetromancebooks #lovetriangletrope #arcreaderswanted #romanticcomedy ♬ Summer - Instrumental - Devinney

 

About Elise Eliot:

Elise Eliot is a highly-caffeinated wordsmith who loves writing funny, romantic stories that offer readers a mental vacation. She grew up watching classic romantic comedies over and over until she memorized all the lines, and they have inspired her to write her own. When she isn’t plotting her next novel, she can be found chauffeuring tiny humans or stopping her dogs from mass destruction. Miss Indecisive is her first novel. Follow her to find out what’s next!

 

Follow Elise everywhere!- https://linktr.ee/eliseeliot

 

Giveaway Details:

1 Winner will receive a $10 Amazon GC, International.
Ends December 27th, midnight EST.

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Even More Romance Books to Curl up with this Holiday

Welcome back! I have more holiday books for you to peruse! These make great gifts for the book lover in your life, or for yourself!

Snow on the Range
Series: Red Hart Ranch
by Sofia Aves

Blurb:

Eve Beaumont is a twin heir to Red Hart Ranch. She loves the land, loves the people, and will do anything for them. Christmas sees most of the ranch hands return to their own homes to celebrate. Only a few long-term cowboys remain with the family.

When Eve and her brother Trav go into town to collect supplies, they each bring home a drifter for Christmas. Rhys Archer and Simon Haldon are as different as two cowpokes can be. One rough-edged who can work the land and animals with a firm hand; the other a smooth talker with a devilish charm. Eve finds both men attractive against her better judgment, but when tragedy hits the ranch, romance is the last thing on her mind.

This or that with Sofia Aves

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Peppermint

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

Christmas at Tall Pines

by Darlene Deluca

Blurb:

Melanie Beck is searching for an idyllic Christmas like the ones her small family used to have. Traveling solo and still grieving the loss of her parents, she’s counting on cozy Tall Pines Lodge tucked into the mountains of Utah to provide the elusive holiday feels with merry music, stunning decorations and traditional Christmas feast in a beautiful frosty setting.

But a blizzard turns the winter wonderland into a hazard, and a chance encounter with a now-famous high school crush has her reeling with emotions she’s never quite gotten over.

Tyler Shaw, a Hollywood heartthrob and silver screen star, is so over a grueling film schedule and persistent paparazzi. In disguise and using a fake name, he comes to Tall Pines to escape the spotlight and get some much-needed rest. He’s hoping the adrenaline rush of downhill skiing at the nearby slopes will give him the reboot he’s looking for.

Instead, he’s stuck at the lodge and is shocked to run into an old high school friend that he left behind more than a decade ago. He’s even more surprised to discover how much he’s missed her.

As their past and present collide, can an old flame ignite some Christmas magic?

This or that Darlene Deluca

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Tinsel and Tea Cakes

By Jill Piscitello

Blurb:

Hair stylist Scarlett Kerrigan lost her job and her apartment. To alleviate a touch of self-pity, she succumbs to her stepmom’s pressure to attend a wedding in the New Hampshire White Mountains. Unfortunately, she runs into the vacation fling who promised the moon but disappeared without an explanation. Months have passed, but she is not ready to forgive and forget.

After a chaotic year, executive Wes Harley settles into his family's event venue, The Timeless Manor. His carefully structured world is shaken to its core when Scarlett arrives for the Victorian Christmas wedding weekend. The feelings he never quite erased flood to the surface.

When secrets are revealed, will a magical chateau and a sprinkle of tinsel be enough to charm Scarlett?

This or that with Jull Piscitello

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

The Dark Horse

Series: Christmas Town
by Liz Flaherty

Blurb:

Widowed Chloe Brewton has made a life for herself in Christmas Town, Maine, teaching literature and being the drama coach at the high school. Although she'd loved her husband and their life in the army, she doesn't really want to start over with someone else, but when she meets Major Row Welcome, in Christmas Town to spend the holiday month with relatives and decide about his future, she feels stirrings of old wishes for happily-ever-after. The attraction is mutual, although the last thing Row wants is to try marriage again, plus he's about as interested in having a family as‚ well, he isn't. But then there's Connor Michaud and his three younger siblings. Oh, no. What now in Christmas Town?

This or that with Liz Flaherty

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Mulled wine

Sweats or Sweater? Sweats

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

I had so much fun sharing holiday books to curl up with. Do you have a book you'd like to recommend? Drop it in the comments and I'll check it out! Did you miss my earlier posts? Scroll down my blog, there are books for children and adults.

Happy holidays!

Book Blitz: Sophia Freeman Series by T.X. Troan

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. T.X. Troan will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Book 1:

EARTH AWAKENED ... SEED PLANTED ... PATH REVEALED.

What begins as a special trip for eleven-year-old Sophia Freeman and her father, leaves her trapped on a mysterious island with a tree boy and fantastical creatures. Later, she learns she is dying from an eternal curse and the only way to prolong her life is to drink the island’s sacred water. Can Sophia and her companions reach the fountain and defeat the guardian before time runs out?

Book 2:

THEY MUST RISK IT ALL TO REGAIN THEIR FREEDOM ... OR BE SEALED AWAY FOREVER.

Sophia Freeman and her best friend, Tim Charnal, must beat all contestants in a three-round Beyond Event organized by the mighty arbiters to free him from the penalty of murder and gain the islanders' trust. Entering the hologram and surviving environments filled with everything from hammer-throwing cave giants to a slimy tentacled sea monster, they will need all their courage, wits, and skills. But how are they going to win when magic is forbidden?

Book 3:

EVIL RISING ... ISLANDERS MISSING ... AND FRIENDS BETRAYING.

With the increase in deaths of Pandilone Islanders, the arbiters devise a strategy to free the god demon within five days to lift the Eternal Curse. All goes as planned until iron-masked creatures kidnap magic users, weakening the army. To gain reinforcements, Sophia Freeman, Tim Charnal, and rescued Allen Chan must gather all six items to cast the Dream Spell, connecting them with Sophia’s father and his air force. But how can the trio succeed in time while surrounded by enemies and traitors aiming to stop them at any cost?

Read it today

Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ Walmart ~ Indie Bound ~ Book Depository

My Thoughts 

I read the first book in the series. Sophia Freeman and the Mysterious Fountain is an imaginative story filled with adventure, mystery, and characters who are fun to tag along with. It's a cute middle-grade novel with fantastical creatures, an interesting island, and plenty of danger for our young heroine to have to survive. 

There were questions left unanswered at the end of the book, some done so on purpose. One thing that I would have liked to understand better is the father's hasty departure from the island. I don't want to give too much away, but I was shocked. Even though he is brash and self-absorbed, I didn't expect such a quick and complete exit. I'm hoping we learn more in the next book. Maybe a plot twist? 

Book one ends with a cliffhanger but don't worry, the next two books are already out. Check out this imaginative middle-grade series if you enjoy a little strange (in a good way) with your fantasy. 

Peek between the pages

Another flaming whip slashed between Sophia and Tim, and they swiftly dodged it. Who could possibly be using Dark Art spells? They looked over and saw Allen’s smoking wand in one hand and Sophia’s scroll in the other.

“S-sorry, guys—I got curious,” said Allen, trembling.

Tim roared, “Curious? You’re not supposed to—”

Sophia raised her hand like Dad did to her, to silence him.

“Allen, can I have my scroll back?” she asked calmly, easing toward him.

Staring at it, he said, “Um … yeah,” and handed it to her.

“Did you hurt yourself?” Sophia asked. “Do you feel any different?”

“I’m fine—actually, I feel good,” said Allen, with a tiny grin.

“Interesting—could you show us how you did that spell?”

Allen gave her a puzzled look. “You mean I’m not in deep trouble? Uh … sure.” He shifted into the attack position and shut his eyes.

“Sophia, I don’t understand—why are you wasting our time?” Tim demanded.

“Shh … Mona was right—you should really work on your temper.” She kept staring at Allen without blinking. “Just watch.”

A moment later, a strong gust howled past them as his wand lit up.

“Allen, break that tall boulder with roots wrapped around it!” Sophia shouted.

He struck with an aggressive roar. “HELLFIRE LASH!” The third flaming whip was unleashed, and it was much bigger than the previous two. It struck directly at the target.

KABOOM!

The spell left a hole through the boulder the size of Allen’s fist.

“Wow, that was impressive,” Tim mumbled.

Sophia handed him the scroll and turned to Allen. “Do you feel any different this time?”

Admiring his wand, he said, “Yes, I felt … confident. Something I didn’t think was possible.”

I get it—he’s attracted to Dark Art spells! At that instant, an absurd idea came to her mind.

About the author:

 

Thuan Doan was born in Indonesia, and grew up in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. 

 

Thuan has been fascinated by art from a young age, especially fantasy. He would wake up hours before school, sit outside the classroom, and scribble in his sketch book. 

 

After college, he worked on a series of jobs, including: an advergaming association as a storyboard/concept artist, gaming company as lead concept artist, and graphic designer for various clients.

 

Thuan conceived his first middle-grade fantasy novel, Sophia Freeman and the Mysterious Fountain, during a trip to Gabriola Island, British Columbia in the summer of 2013. Then he took his work and settled in a small town of Enderby, where it’s peaceful and quiet. 4 years later, the story is complete. While book 1, 2 and 3 are being shared with the world, he's writing and illustrating book 4 of the Sophia Freeman series.

 

Thuan is writing under a pen name of T.X. Troan. “X” stands for Xu, his grandmother’s name who passed away. And “Troan” is a combination of his parents' names.

 

“No matter how this turns out, I want my family to be a part of this wonderful journey.”

 

T.X. Troan married Sarah, his original fan and longtime love, in 2016. They live in Enderby with their pack dogs and school of fish!

 

AWARDS

★ Entrada Publishing Incipere Award, 2020

★ Readers' Favorite 5 star Badge, 2019, 2021 and 2022

★ Literary Titan Badge, 2020

 

Connect with T.X. Toran

Website ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads

Enter the giveaway!

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Follow the tour!

Book Blast: The Doc's Holiday Homecoming

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Virginia McCullough will be awarding a $50 Etsy Gift Card to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour. 

 

Could her closed heart... 

Still have room for him?

Olivia Donoghue’s life has turned a corner. The radiologist’s eleven-year-old daughter is finally healthy, and she just moved to her best friend’s dreamy hometown of Adelaide Creek, Wyoming. If only her friend’s prodigal brother, Jeff Stanhope, wasn’t complicating matters. It's clear Jeff's kindness knows no bounds, having taken in his late roommate's teenage son and also offering her a cabin to stay in, but Olivia’s heart is already full…and safe. Is the former rancher worth the risk?

Peek between the pages

It was a frosty Halloween night, with a thin cloud cover blocking out most of the light from the crescent moon. Jeff felt the energy between them as they walked along together. It was a familiar vibe now. When they got to her cabin, Olivia directed him to lean the painting against the wall behind her desk.

When she walked him back to the door, he couldn’t resist saying, “One more thing, Olivia.”

“Oh? Uh, what’s that?”

“If you ever wear that fringy dress again, you might want to ditch the black wig.”

Olivia’s laugh was as melodic as her voice.

“Believe me, the real thing is so much better.” Taking such pleasure in her smile, he leaned forward and gave her cheek a quick kiss. “Night.” He hurried away, but he knew she was still standing by the door watching him leave. It had been a great night all around.


My thoughts...

I’m about two-thirds of the way through this delightful, small-town, holiday romance. Jeff returned to his hometown to start a life with the boy he adopted after a friend's tragic death. Olivia moved to this small town to be closer to her friend. The two are attracted to each other, but neither is ready to admit it, at first. The romance is slowly blooming as we learn more about their past. The Doc’s Holiday Homecoming is a sweet story perfect for this time of year.

About the Author:

Virginia McCullough is thrilled to share her eighth Harlequin Heartwarming release with readers. The Doc’s Holiday Homecoming, available November 29th, is the second book in her Back to Adelaide Creek series. Like all of Virginia’s romances, this holiday story comes straight from the heart and features characters who could be your neighbors and friends struggling with everyday life issues.

Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia spent years as a ghostwriter, producing more than one hundred books for physicians, business owners, professional speakers and many others with information to share or a story to tell. She’s moved around a lot, and a few years ago she landed in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where she enjoys hanging out with other romance writers, walking on trails, and downing mugs of dark roast at local coffeehouses. Her other award-winning romance and women’s fiction titles include The Jacks of Her Heart, Amber Light, and The Chapels on the Hill. Virginia is always working on another story about hope, healing, and second chances.

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More Romance Books to curl up with

Welcome back!

A little over two weeks until Christmas! It's hard to believe how fast the year has gone. 

December is the perfect time to curl up with a great romance. Today I have four sweet romances to share with you. 

Merry Little Wishing Spritz
Series: Christmas Cookies
by Cherie Colyer
Genre: Romance

Blurb:

Modern-day witch Cassie Moore’s cozy life turns upside down when her friend foresees the wrecking ball that threatens to destroy Cassie’s home and workplace. But Cassie isn’t giving up without a fight. She casts a well-intended spell meant to save her apartment and her job. But magic is unpredictable, especially when her friend casts a little charm of her own that has Cassie lusting after the man she desperately wants to despise.

Jack Quinn has had his eyes on Lakeside Books for years, and he couldn’t be happier the owner is finally ready to sell. He has big plans for the cozy waterfront property, but he didn’t expect to care about the store or its employees. And he never imagined he’d be drawn to a certain brown-eyed saleswoman.

Almost as if by magic.

This or that with Cherie Colyer

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Mulled wine

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Movies

On Sale through the holidays.

Read it today

Heart of Christmas Cookies and Dreams

Series: Christmas Cookies
By Wendy Kendall
Genre: Romance


Blurb:

Liz buried her hopes three years ago when she buried her husband. Her dream to run her own bakery? Shelved, along with dreams of love. She hides behind a corporate desk, struggling for time with her young son and his grandmother, Violet.

George is chef at the assisted living facility where Violet recovers from an accident. His adopted beagle, Phil is George's only family, and a therapy dog for the residents.

Violet plays matchmaker, plotting a cookie bake at the facility kitchen. Her plans put George's job at risk.

When tail-wagger Phil suddenly disappears, George is desperate to find him. The search leads George into a surprising twist of fate, and accidentally pulls Liz along with him.

Together can they discover the heart of Christmas, and find the ribbons of love that run through it?

This or that with Wendy Kendall

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow Angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Mulled wine

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Out on the town

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

Chocolate Swirl Cookie Christmas

Series: Christmas Cookies
by L.M. Gonzalez
Genre: Romance

Blurb:

Jennifer Medina, successful romance writer, is suffering from writer's block. Having divorced her critical husband, she is determined to avoid men and concentrate on career and volunteer work.

Ray Trevino prefers working outside in the family's construction business, so he has refused his dad's offer of an office job to help run the company. Past experience taught him not to take risks in his personal or business life.

When they meet, immediate attraction flares. Ray invites Jennifer out..not on a real date, but as research for her book. Yet despite their wariness about love and commitment, their relationship progresses until both realize they've crossed boundaries...and they go their separate ways.

Can they somehow forget the past and make better memories this Christmas?

This or that L.M. Gonzalez

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweats

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Meringue Snowflake Magic
Series: Christmas Cookies
by Tena Stetler
Genre: Romance

Blurb:

After being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Wynter Dahl finds herself with a new name and new home. Whisked into the Witness Protection program she finds herself in the Podunk town of Raven’s Hollow, Colorado. She has more than one secret to keep and is not sure who she can trust.

Braydon “Blaze” Nightwing, owns Dragon Fire Pizza and takes his job as deputy sheriff seriously. He means to protect his town and its residents, including the mysterious newcomer. He rescues her after a tumble and finds himself in over his head.

When her cover is blown and her life is in danger it will take the whole town to save her and their annual holiday festival and cookie contest.

This or that with Tena Stetler

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Discover more books

Holiday books with filled with mystery and suspense

Children's holiday books to curl up with

Romance Books to Curl up With

Do you bake this time of year? What's your favorite holiday treat?

Romances to Curl up with the Holiday

Welcome back! Today's post is for romance lovers or the romance lover in your life! Plus, the authors joined in on a round of This or That.

The Inn on Gooseneck Lane

by Delsora Lowe
Genre: romance

Blurb:

Nat Thomas calls Mistletoe Falls, Vermont home where summers were magical, her aunt became the parent she needed, and high school love bloomed. Sixteen years later, that love lost, Nat returns home for a much-needed break.

Brad Matthews returns home to buy Green Mountain Sports, after years as an outdoor adventure guide. He's thrown into partnering an event to revive the town's inn and boost his business.

Can he work with the woman who demolished his heart and ran with no explanation? Can she trust him?

In a small town where everyone knows your business and interfering relatives revive snicker-doodling, the lost art of matchmaking, Nat and Brad may not stand a chance. Can the two find enough heart to forgive and accept love again?

This or that with Delsora Lowe

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweats

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

A Maple Cookie Homecoming
By Judy Ann Davis

Blurb:

When Julien Franklin returns home for Christmas after retiring from the military, his first mission is to taste his home town's maple cookies and find office space for his civilian website business. He's delighted to rent the apartment above The Book Bin bookstore owned by his old high school sweetheart.

Natalie Pinkett, widow and single parent, has some tragic secrets gnawing at her soul, but she needs the rent expenses. Now an old love will be literally working above her head—and he owns a rambunctious puppy her daughter has fallen in love with.

Can Julien woo the pretty bookstore owner and get her to reveal her painful past? Will the two be able to cross the divide of twenty-four years and find love again?

This or that with Judy Ann Davis

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Heartsong Hills

Series: Hearts of the Ridge
by Wendy Rich Stetson

Blurb:

Amish girls don't dance. Dancing is against the rules, and Nora Beiler always follows the rules...until a runaway logging truck shatters her world forever. Desperate to heal from the accident, she enrolls in Shuffle off to Fitness, an exercise class at the local senior center. She never dreamed it involved tap-dancing...or just how much she'd love to dance.

Exiled from Nashville, country music star Tucker McClure has no one to blame but himself. Weekly gigs at the local farmers’ market keep the demons at bay. The last thing he expects is to find himself in an old folks’ fitness class...dancing with a girl who makes him question everything he ever thought he wanted.

Will the past drive Nora and Tucker apart? Or can love bridge the gap between hearts and worlds?

This or that with Wendy Rich Stetson

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweats

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Peppermint

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

Wishes Under a Highland Star

Series: A Tale from the Order of the Dragon Knights
by Mary Morgan
Genre: romance

Blurb:

As chieftain for his clan, Alex MacFhearguis struggles with the burden of an unwanted responsibility. With the midwinter feast approaching, he flees his castle to find comfort and solitude within the forest. Yet on his quest, Alex stumbles into a world filled with magic, mysteries, and a woman with beguiling eyes.

When half-Fae Aine Fraser makes a powerful wish, her simple request unlocks the magic she possesses and brings forth a Highlander into her world. Though the man has lost all his memories, she finds her attraction growing for this brooding warrior with each passing day. Unable to deny her feelings, Aine risks everything when she confesses her greatest secret.

Can a beauty who wished for a champion tame the beast of Leomhann Castle?

This or that with Mary Morgan

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Peppermint

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Discover more books

Holiday books with filled with mystery and suspense

Children's holiday books to curl up with

Check back again for more holiday books!

Children's holiday books to curl up with

Ho Ho Ho! 

My holiday book selection continues with three adorable children's books and a round of This or That with each of these amazing authors.

Every Other Christmas

by Katie Otey
Genre: children’s

Blurb:

After his parent’s divorce, a young child spends Every Other Christmas celebrating the differing traditions between the African-American and Colombian sides of his family.

This or that with Katie Otey

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Out on the town

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Tuktuk: Tundra Tale
by Robin Currie
Genre: Children’s

Blurb:

As the sun begins to set, arctic animals scurry to prepare for the dark, cold winter. Tuktuk the collared lemming is almost ready for the long winter night all he needs is warm fur to line his nest. When one furry kamik (boot) slips off an Inuit drive’s sled, Tuktuk is in luck! But as he drags it home, Putak the polar bear, Aput the arctic fox, and Masak the caribou eye this little lemming’s prize and want it for their own. Tuktuk thinks fast, but can he outwit the other animals and convince them that one furry kamik is no good for anyone bigger than a lemming?

This or that by Robin Currie

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Mulled wine

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Peppermint

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Twas the Night Before Christmas...A First for Gus
by Sherry J. Roberts
Genre: children’s


Blurb:

It's the night before Christmas and Gus just can't sleep. He lives in a shelter and longs for a home of his own. Suddenly, he hears a loud noise and looks outside to find Santa Claus. As they ride off into the night sky together, Gus has no idea that one of the houses he visits will be his forever home.

This or that with Sherry J. Roberts

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocolate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweats

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Peppermint

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

Discover more holiday books

Holiday books with filled with mystery and suspense

Romance Books to Curl up With

More Romance Books to Curl up With

How about a little this or that? Tell me what you'd pick from the choices above.

Holiday books filled with mystery and suspense

Tis the season to treat yourself and the book lover on your holiday shopping list, and what better way than with a book set during the holidays? Stop by frequently this month, because I'll be sharing books for the whole family.

Today's books are filled with mystery and suspense, plus each author answered a round of This or That.

Happy browsing!

Snow Kiss Cookies to Die For
Series: Christmas Cookies
by Wendy Kendall
Genre: Romance suspense during Christmas holiday

Blurb:

First grade teacher Desiree Tucker is on the brink of winter holidays with her new, romantic boyfriend when danger encroaches on her joy. Ominous, untraceable texts buzz on her cell phone. Terrifying secret Santa gifts show up for her in the classroom. As the stalker moves closer to the prey, Desiree doesn't know who she can trust. Her charming new man is a prime suspect. Is he a deadly stalker? If not him, who? What can she learn from her grandmother's legend of the snow kiss cookie? Just when she's starting to believe in magic again, she finds herself fighting for her life.

This or that with Wendy Kendall

Snow angle or Snowman? Snow Angel

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Mulled wine

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Out on the town

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Cinnamon

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

Gingerbread Dead

Series: Christmas Cookies
by Lori L Robinett
Genre: mystery

Blurb:

While the rest of the neighborhood is preparing for the holidays, Jess Barker is determined to stop a murderer.

This or that with Lori L. Robinett

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Mulled wine

Sweats or Sweater? Sweats

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Peppermint

Songs or movies? Movies

Read it today

Scarlet at Crystal River

Series: The Haunted Shores Mysteries
by Randy Overbeck
Genre: mystery/ghost story

Blurb:

All Darrell Henshaw wanted was to enjoy his honeymoon with his beautiful wife, Erin, in the charming town of Crystal River on the sunny Gulf Coast of Florida over the Christmas holidays. Only a pair of ghosts decide to intrude on their celebration. And not just any ghosts, the spirits of two young Latino children. Unwilling at first to derail the honeymoon for yet another ghost hunt, Darrell finally concedes when a painting of the kids comes alive, weeping and pleading for his help.

This or that with Randy Overbeck

Snow angle or Snowman? Snowman

Hot chocolate or Mulled wine? Hot chocalate

Sweats or Sweater? Sweater

Cozy night in or Out on the town? Cozy night in

Peppermint or Cinnamon? Peppermint

Songs or movies? Songs

Read it today

Did any of these books pique your interest? Have you started your holiday shopping yet? 

Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and reflection. I'm so very grateful for the many friends I've made since starting this blog back in 2011. Regardless of where you live, may today and always be filled with love and friendship. Thank you for visiting today and throughout the year. I hope to continue to bring to you new books to discover. If you're an author and would like to be a guest on my blog, please click here. You'll be redirected to my author contact page.

To my US friends, have a safe and happy holiday.

All my best,

Cherie

Giving thanks and remembering a dear friend

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it's about giving thanks. I'm so very thankful for the people I've had the honor of meeting over the years, for close friends, and for close family. I'm thankful for the roof over my head and the job that keeps it there. For my publisher and editors who believe in my books, for the readers who find my books, and for the reviewers who share their thoughts. Thank you!

I started to think about the books I've read that include Thanksgiving, and the list is short. For whatever reason, I haven't read many. So if you have a recommendation, please drop it in the comments!

The first book to pop into my mind was The Pilgrims' Thanksgiving from A to Z, a picture book by Laura Crawford. Thinking of Laura brings back fond memories of strolling down Rodeo Drive and the movie Pretty Woman. Laura was an amazing writer, friend, aunt, sister, daughter, teacher, and all-around person, She was kind, caring, funny, and smart.

Pictured from left to right: Trina Sotira, Jenny Wagh, Laura Crawford, Kym Brunner, Katie Sparks, and me, Cherie Colyer on Rodeo Drive, Baby!

With Thanksgiving approaching, I thought it would be fun to re-post an interview I did with Laura back in 2011. Laura wasn’t just an amazing author, she was a good friend and a wonderful person who is missed dearly. 

From 2011, tweaked just a little...

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and I love that Laura found a way to make learning about the Pilgrims’ journey from England to Massachusetts fun. For instance, did you know there were 102 pilgrims who made the journey on the Mayflower or that the women baked a weekly supply of bread in a large community oven? Thanks to Laura, I do.

With loving memories, meet Laura...

Cherie: Where did you get the idea for your book?

Laura: I was inspired to write The Pilgrims’ Thanksgiving From A to Z when I was teaching 2^nd grade. We were doing a Thanksgiving unit and I needed to teach the history of the holiday. When I went to the library, I found that the books were all way too easy or way too difficult for 7 year-olds. Since I couldn’t find what I wanted, I wrote my own. It was finished by the following year, so I printed it out and had my students illustrate it.

Cherie: I love that you decided to write the book you needed. And what a fun project for your students! The Pilgrims’ Thanksgiving From A to Z has a lot of great information about the pilgrims’ voyage to America. What type of research did you do before writing the book?

Laura: It took a long time to research this book. I read Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford, one of Pilgrim leaders. It was by far one of the most challenging books I have ever read in my life! Not fun. I also contacted the museums in Massachusetts and they sent me information. Most of my research was done through the internet and by checking books from the library. Since I only need the most basic information, it was not too hard to find…except for K, Q and X. They are officially my LEAST favorite letters of the alphabet. Every time I do an ABC book, they are the most challenging.

Cherie: You know, I hated having to find examples of words with those letters when I was in school, so I can sympathize. Can you tell us a little about your writing process?

Laura: I usually have an idea….and then do nothing about it for a long time! Then I start reading and watching videos. Since I do a lot of history books, I watch the History Channel and the Biography Channel. It seems like an idea percolates in my head for a long time, and when I actually start typing, it goes pretty fast. Then I let it sit for awhile before my writing groups get to see it…several times!

Cherie: Percolating ideas: I love it! What is your favorite thing about Thanksgiving?

Laura: Oh that’s easy…..mashed potatoes!  Haha. 

As far as the book goes, I’d say Squanto.  I foresee a Squanto book in my future.

Cherie: Funny that you could answer that so easily. I’m still trying to figure out my favorite part of the holiday. It might be the turkey, I like nibbling on it for days. Or maybe the yams. Definitely the desserts. Now I’m making myself hungry.

Young children say the darnedest things and I’ve read many of your Facebook posts that reflect this. Have you read your story to children? Can you share with us some of their comments about the book?

Laura: I’ve read the book to many children, but I can’t remember anything funny they’ve said to me, but I always tell them about the mistake in my book. On the page with C is for Clothing, you will read that the Pilgrims did not wear buckles.  When Pelican Publishing sent me the galleys to approve, there was a huge buckle on the page with R is for Plymouth Rock.  Well, I called them and freaked out. They took the giant buckle off the shoe…but nobody else (including me) noticed that there are buckles on 3 other pages.  So spread the word…the Pilgrims did NOT have buckles!  And the moral of the story: take your time and look closely at ALL illustrations before approving them.

Cherie: Oh, that is a great story. I remember reading that the Pilgrims didn’t have buckles, and I didn’t notice that some of the pictures included them. What a great tip for writers.

When I was young, we used to play pilgrim or the Indian? I was always an Indian. How about you, when you were young, were you a Pilgrim or an Indian?

Laura: Not really….I wanted to be Wonder Woman when I was young! Haha

Cherie: Can you imagine Wonder Woman sitting down for Thanksgiving dinner with the Pilgrims and Indians? ** pauses to imagine how that would go ** You have a few picture books out. Which was the most fun to write?  Which was the most difficult to write? 

Laura: Hmmm….that is a hard question!  I think the Postcard series was the most fun to write because the main character is so cute and spunky (and based on my niece).  I did have fun doing In Arctic Waters because I love cumulative tales and animals, although I’m not a very good rhymer.  I think the most challenging was The Pilgrims’ Thanksgiving From A to Z because I had to make the alphabet fit the chronological order of events. I bet I rearranged my letters for that book about 20 times (and I’m not exaggerating!)

Thank you so much for interviewing me!!  Happy Thanksgiving to you….

Cherie: Thanks for stopping by! And a Happy Gobble Gobble Day to you too!

The Pilgrims' Thanksgiving from A to Z

by Laura Crawford

From Amazon:

In this alphabet picture book, author Laura Crawford brings the Pilgrims' story to light by balancing classic Thanksgiving themes with clever lessons about the Pilgrims' trials and triumphs. Noting American ideals like "F is for freedom" alongside the realities of Pilgrim life, such as "H is for hardship," as well as teaching geography ("A is for Atlantic Ocean"), cultural facts ("W is for Wampanoag tribe"), and historical names ("M is for Miles Standish"), this book is a wonderful vocabulary builder and a fun way to pass the Pilgrims' story on to another generation.

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Check out some of Laura's other books

If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what is your favorite thing about the holiday? If not, what is your favorite thing about autumn?