And Now, for the Rest of the Story - Book 11 "Museums Can Be Murder"

My Visit to the MET

As we begin the fall season, giving us more indoor time for reading, it gives me great pleasure to launch the latest book in the Jillian Bradley Mystery Series. It was such fun to visit New York in preparation to write Museums Can Be Murder, especially the Metropolitan Museum of Art. My husband and I are both art lovers, and we loved visiting the MET so much we went back the next day to drink in more.

There is a romantic interest in this book that was especially fun to gather background for by my husband and I. At one point, Jillian stays at The Lucerne Hotel which has a cozy French restaurant called Nice Matin, located next door. The cafe has a private entrance leading from the hotel.

The Charming Lucerne Hotel

Enjoying the French Cuisine of Nice Matin

Nice Matin Before the Evening Rush

In addition to romantic meals at Nice Matin, Jillian enjoys the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular, especially the Nativity Scene, and watching the ice skaters in Central Park, just a few sites she experiences in New York City.

 Nativity Scene from the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular

Ice Skaters in Central Park

Available on Amazon Kobo Barnes and Noble  iBooks and Smashwords

Museums Can Be Murder

The Christmas holidays get a morbid start when Jillian Bradley's niece Kaitlin Romero discovers the body of her boss at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. An envelope containing rare Charles Dickens illustrations is missing, and Detective Mickey Wells must reluctantly rely on Jillian's help to solve the crime.

The case goes international when the vendor of the illustrations is murdered and linked to possible fraud. As always, Jillian's Yorkie companion Teddy helps solve the case by discovering an important clue. Afternoon tea included!

Available on Smashwords and Amazon

Including The Jillian Bradley Short Story Collection, there is a total of 17 stories, all in sequence of events and mysteries in the life of Jillian Bradley. Her Little Yorkie companion Teddy appears in every story, helping to find important clues to solve the mystery.You'll want to read them all to learn about Jillian Bradley's life.

I hope you enjoy the book.

Cheers!
~Nancy Jill

Jesus is the Reason for the Season

 And what better way to get in the mood for the holidays and celebrate the birth of Christ than to sit back with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa and read all three of "A Cup of Cozy" books in this special boxed set? For one low price you get over 350 pages of Christmas stories plus holiday menus and recipes that will inspire you! 

Don't wait. Order now!

Amazon.com $1.99

We authors at Cozy Mystery Magazine wish you the 

Happiest Holidays and a Very Merry Christmas!

Cynthia Hickey

Traci Tyne Hilton

Linda Kozar

Deborah Malone

Candice Prentice

C.L. Ragsdale

Nancy Jill Thames

Janice Hanna Thompson

New Anthology "A Cup of Cozy 3" Out Soon

Our family loves to watch Christmas movies. We look forward to the tradition of being together cuddled up by the fire, laughing at the antics of "Home Alone" or shedding a tear or two at the conclusion of "A Christmas Carol." That's how we at Cozy Mystery Magazine feel about our "A Cup of Cozy" holiday anthologies.

This year's theme for "A Cup of Cozy 3" is Destination Christmas: Short Holiday Mysteries and Recipes. Linda Kozar writes a story taking place in Turkey, and my setting is San Francisco. I'll save the other settings for a later post.

As we take time to enter the busiest time of the year, I hope we'll find time to enjoy the journey. Being with friends and family while celebrating fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas is a special reminder of the abundant blessings God has poured out all year.

Cheers and Happy Holidays!

~Nancy Jill

Nancy Jill Thames was born to write mysteries. From her early days as the neighborhood story-teller to the Amazon Author Watch Bestseller List, she has always had a vivid imagination and loves to solve problems – perfect for plotting whodunits. In 2010, Nancy Jill published her first mystery Murder in Half Moon Bay, introducing her well-loved protagonist Jillian Bradley and clue-sniffing Yorkie “Teddy.”

When she isn’t plotting Jillian’s next perilous adventure, Nancy Jill travels between Texas, California, and Georgia finding new ways to spoil her grandchildren, playing classical favorites on her baby grand, or having afternoon tea with friends.
She lives with her husband in Leander, Texas, where she is a member of Leander Writers’ Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW CenTex Chapter), and Central Texas Authors.

Watch for her new story "Teddy Saves Christmas" in a holiday anthology with a special bonus issue offer to launch October 15th on all sites. Available for preorder for only $.99 at: https://www.booklaunch.io/joannaslan/happyhomicidesholiday

To learn more about Nancy Jill, visit these sites.

Facebook

Twitter 
Website

Pinterest

"Tomorrow is another day..." -Scarlett O'Hara

 Amazon * Barnes & Noble Online 
*Kobo *Smashwords

What will tomorrow bring? That's the last line in my ninth book "Murder at Mirror Lake." The main character has gone through a heart wrenching time and has to pick herself up and face the challenges of a new day. 

I find myself, along with hundreds of others, facing the same question as members of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) descend on the Hyatt Regency in Dallas September 17th-20th and spend time together learning more about our craft and, perhaps more importantly, discovering more about our purpose as Christian writers.

It will be the first writing conference I have attended so I am looking forward to what tomorrow and the whole weekend will bring.

One highlight of the event for me will be meeting some of our authors on CMM face to face for the first time. I'll be sure to post pictures. 

I pray we'll come away with fresh perspectives that, hopefully, will add not only entertainment value to you wonderful readers, but spiritual value as well. As always, we appreciate your readership and look forward to hearing your comments and reviews.

Cheers for what tomorrow will bring!

~Nancy Jill 


Nancy Jill Thames was born to write mysteries. From her early days as the neighborhood story-teller to the Amazon Author Watch Bestseller List, she has always had a vivid imagination and loves to solve problems – perfect for plotting whodunits. In 2010, Nancy Jill published her first mystery Murder in Half Moon Bay, introducing her well-loved protagonist Jillian Bradley and clue-sniffing Yorkie “Teddy.”

When she isn’t plotting Jillian’s next perilous adventure, Nancy Jill travels between Texas, California, and Georgia finding new ways to spoil her grandchildren, playing classical favorites on her baby grand, or having afternoon tea with friends.

She lives with her husband in Leander, Texas, where she is a member of Leander Writers’ Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW CenTex Chapter), and Central Texas Authors.

To learn more about Nancy Jill, visit these sites.

Twitter @mystriterdva

http://www.nancyjillthames.com

Pinterest

Launch Party for Murder at the Empress Hotel!

O Happy Day! Book 10 is out this summer! Thanks for joining me today. Please have some treats - zero calories online. We'll also need a nice cup of tea. 

I'd like to share with you a few notes on why I wrote the story of "Murder at the Empress Hotel." 

The main reason I used Victoria, British Columbia for the setting was in remembrance of a family trip in 1986. That was when my husband and I started our second family together, unbeknownst to us. We were on a road trip up the Pacific Coast with our two older children at the time and both sets of grandparents. What a wonderful vacation we had visiting many attractions along the way. In Victoria, we strolled the docks of  the inner harbor and fisherman's wharf, and took a day to see the Butchart Gardens. 

Some things have changed since our visit, like moving the Ann Hathaway Cottage as it was called to a nearby island, and the addition of Blue Heron House at Royal Roads University. But one thing remains the same. Afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel still serves their famed spread every afternoon. 

In doing research for "Murder at the Empress Hotel," I learned about the First Nations people who were the first inhabitants of Vancouver Island. It wouldn't be an authentic setting without a few of their stories, even though they're from my imagination. The book is dedicated to them.

"Set in the beautiful city of Victoria on Vancouver Island, a bitter conflict over fishing rights and the love of one woman turns deadly with the murder of a young attorney, drawing Jillian and Teddy into yet another intriguing adventure."

Well, that sums up the story all right, but there's a little more to it. Like the characters for instance: 

Jillian Bradley, garden columnist and amateur sleuth
Teddy, Jillian's Yorkie companion and fellow sleuth
Arthur Wingate, fellow collaborator and good friend
Diana Wingate, wife of Arthur and newly appointed hotel reviewer
Father Goodman, priest and university professor of aboriginal relationships 
Rainbow Knight, sister of Badger and grad assistant to Father Goodman
Gerald Dawson, associate professor of aboriginal studies
Leo Hunter, Director of Canadian Oceans and Fisheries
David Blackwolf, lawyer for Canadian Oceans and Fisheries
Badger Knight, opposing lawyer for First Nations
Kelly Morrison, administrative assistant to David Blackwolf and Leo Hunter
Sergeant Nick Stone, head of Victoria homicide division

Mix all together and somewhere you'll discover a victim and a motive for murder! 

To order copies of "Murder at the Empress Hotel" and Books 1-9, please follow the links:

AMAZON

BARNES & NOBLE

KOBO

SMASHWORDS

Enjoy!

~Nancy Jill 

NANCY JILL THAMES

Nancy Jill Thames was born to write mysteries. From her early days as the neighborhood story-teller to the Amazon Author Watch Bestseller List, she has always had a vivid imagination and loves to solve problems – perfect for plotting whodunits. In 2010, Nancy Jill published her first mystery Murder in Half Moon Bay, introducing her well-loved protagonist Jillian Bradley, and clue-sniffing Yorkie, “Teddy.”

When she isn’t plotting Jillian’s next perilous adventure, Nancy Jill travels between Texas and California finding new ways to spoil her grandchildren, playing classical favorites on her baby grand or having afternoon tea with friends.

She is a member of Leander Writers’ Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW CenTex Chapter), and Central Texas Authors.

To learn more about Nancy Jill, visit:

http://www.nancyjillthames.com

Trials in the Mystery of Life

What do you do when trials arise? Do you say, "Oh, good - a trial! Can't wait to see the outcome." Or perhaps you crawl into your shell and wait, hoping it will end soon. As believers, we don't face trials alone; our faith in God gives us what we need to press on. We may feel overwhelmed, scared, or confused when faced with adversity, but have you noticed? Trials pass. Peace comes. We move forward.

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Kobo * iTunes

"The Long Trip Home" is the story of how Jillian Bradley handles a terrible trial in her life. As  I wrote the book, it was important to include emotions of how she felt. Since I had not experienced a trial like hers, I had to glean from the experiences of others. Such is one of the challenges of being a writer. I write stories to not only entertain, but to depict how our loving Heavenly Father is always there for us. 

I hope you enjoy this latest adventure of Jillian and her Yorkie companion, Teddy. Here are the Reviews.

Cheers!

~Nancy Jill

New Cookbook Brings Old Memories

Buy on Amazon.com
Kindle eBook

In 2001 after I'd written a few chapters of  "Murder in Half Moon Bay," I attended a literary conference with a guest speaker by the name of Camille Minichino (AKA Margaret Grace) who was writing the Periodic Table mysteries at the time. Camille graciously signed one of her books for me, wishing good success with my writing. I was in awe! Today,  13 years later, we appear in a cookbook together called "Cozy Food." What could be more special?  
      

Another author, Sandra Balzo, has contributed a recipe to the new cookbook as well. Years ago when I asked a question on a forum, this lady also encouraged me with a few words. I'll be forever grateful. 

The third author I want to mention is our very own Traci Tyne Hilton. Traci, like the rest of our CMM authors is a sweetheart and a wonderful writer. I'm anxious to read what she added. 

In case you're wondering, I wrote recipes for Raisin Scones and Mock Devonshire Cream epitomizing "Queen of Afternoon Tea."  Check out the back cover for a complete list of cozy mystery authors and see if your favorites are included. You may want to purchase a copy to discover more cozy authors. Links are included with each recipe.

                                                       
I hope you enjoy the collaboration by author Nancy Lynn Jarvis, another friend of mine. Until next time, I'll see you in my books.

 Cheers!

~Nancy Jill 

Nancy Jill Thames was born to write mysteries. From her early days as the neighborhood story-teller to being listed on Amazon Author Watch Bestseller List, she has always had a vivid imagination and loves to solve problems – perfect for plotting whodunnits. In 2010, Nancy Jill published her first mystery, Murder in Half Moon Bay, introducing her well-loved protagonist, Jillian Bradley, and whimsical Yorkie, “Teddy.” She’s written seven books so far in The Jillian Bradley Mystery Series and is working on her eighth.

When she isn’t plotting Jillian’s next perilous adventure, she travels between Texas and California finding new ways to spoil her grandchildren, playing classical favorites on her baby grand or having afternoon tea with friends.

Member of Leander Writers’ Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW CenTex Chapter), and Central Texas Authors

To learn more about Nancy Jill visit these sites.

Twitter @mystriterdva

http://www.nancy-jill.blogspot.com

Pinterest

Six Things You Can Do While Waiting For Publication

By Deborah Malone 

 

1. Establish A Website: Once your book is contracted and by the time it shows up in online bookstores, you should have a website – preferably one with your author name as the URL,(www.deborah-malone.com) so that readers can easily find you. Use Google blogspot for free and pay only for the URL. 
   
2. Start A Blog:  I’ve discovered blogging and reviewing books is a great way to get your name out in the world of writing. You can build a following before you have your book published. If possible use your author name as your URL. Interviews and book giveaways are a great way to draw traffic to your blog. You can use Google or Wordpress for free
3. Start An Author Facebook Page:  If you start an author page as opposed to a personal page it allows followers to connect with you without having to wait for a friend approval. You can post book news, awards, and book signings.
4. Get An Updated Author Photo:  This doesn’t have to be a high-priced photograph, but make sure it is updated and of good quality. It won’t hurt to have a couple of different shots.
5. Set Up Accounts On Reader Sites:  There is a great opportunity in this area. You can sign up at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, Goodreads, and Shelfari. Then when your book is published you can set up author pages and list your book and your information.
6.  Get Business Cards, Postcards and Bookmarks:  Vista Print offers great prices on these items. You can get your business cards before your book comes out – be sure and put your picture on your card. Someone might not remember your name, but they will remember your face. If you place a small order with Vista Print they will send you discount cards with that order then you can place future orders at a greatly reduced price.
   I made my own bookmarks out of heavy duty paper and saved a lot of money. Don’t forget the book I mentioned earlier “Stress Fee Marketing” by Renea Winchester, it includes a lot of detailed information on these marketing strategies.

Deborah Malone

Deborah Malone’s first novel Death in Dahlonega, finaled in the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Category Five writing contest! Deborah was also nominated for 2012 Georgia Author of the Year in First Novel category. She has worked as a freelance writer and photographer, for the historic magazine “Georgia Backroads.” She has had many articles and photographs published, and her writing is featured in “Tales of the Rails,” edited by Olin Jackson. She is a member of the Georgia Writer’s Association as well as Advanced Writer’s and Speakers Association. As a current member of the American Christian Fiction Writer she has established a blog where she reviews Christian Fiction.  

Spirits of the Past, Present, and Future

By Nancy Jill Thames

We here at Cozy Mystery Magazine wish you a Very Happy New Year! 

Like me, you may be making new year resolutions, beginning to organize your closets, or perhaps getting ready to read new books on an eReader you received as a gift. 

We've been busy, too. 

My hubby and I must watch at least four versions of A Christmas Carol every year, and it made me think about progress on our blog. Let's take a walk with our own spirits on Cozy Mystery Magazine.

In the Spirit of the Past over the last year-and-a-half we've brought you news of our books, introduced you to new authors, and had fun with contests, giveaways, and afternoon tea. The Spirit of the Past shows us posting five times a week has been our pleasure.


The Spirit of the Present shows us, however, we are branching out to Pinterest and our very own Cozy Mystery Magazine Facebook page. Our Cozy Mystery Magazine blog will now feature a new weekly article every Wednesday beginning today. We hope you'll join us at the new sites as you continue to read our posts.

Included in these changes is the departure of author S. Dionne Moore, our much enjoyed recipe posts contributor. She will be missed.

We Cozy Mystery Magazine authors are excited about the Spirit of the Future. I know each of us have published new books last year and have new books in the works.

I look forward to wrapping up the Spirits of the Past, Present, and Future for Jillian and Teddy with my last book in the series "The Long Trip Home." I'll keep you posted on the launch date. Afterward, Jillian will reappear in conjunction with a brand new series called "Lawrence" - stories about a clumsy but lovable amateur sleuth who is the husband of one of Jillian's friends. I think you'll enjoy them.

The only other book I plan to write in the near Future is a fictitious memoir called "The Wedding Vase" - a story based on my grandmother's life. As you can tell my work's cut out.

What about you? What are your plans for 2014?

See you in my books.

~Nancy Jill 

NANCY JILL THAMES

Mystery novelist Nancy Jill Thames has published Christian fiction since 2010. The author of seven books in the Jillian Bradley series, she is an award-winning blogger and  listed frequently on the Author Watch Bestseller’s List. In addition, she won first place in her church's 4th of July Celebration for her chocolate cream pie.

When she isn’t plotting her next book, she spends time with her six grandchildren in two states, tags along with her husband on business trips, and plays classical piano for her own personal enjoyment. She is an active member of the Leander Writers' Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), CenTex-Chapter of ACFW, and supports the Central Texas SPCA with a portion of her book sales. She resides with her husband in Leander, Texas.

To learn more about the author and check out her books, please visit her blog at  

Cozy Mystery Author, Nancy Jill Thames.

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Oh Mystery Tree, Oh Mystery Tree--DAY THREE!

DAY THREE WINNERS

Harvee - The Ruby of Siam 

Barbara T - Chasing Lady Midnight 

Sherry Smith (Anonymous) - Frozen Assets 

DAY TWO WINNERS

Barbara T won Terror on Tybee Island
Marsha Holz won Chasing Lady Midnight
Ann Marie Japson won Frozen Assets
(please leave an email under your post so we can contact you)

DAY ONE WINNERS

Jerry won Murder in Half Moon Bay

Karen Candee won A Tisket, A Casket

Kathy Otto won Misfortune Cookies

(Karen and Kathy, please leave your email in a comment below. We need to contact you.)

YOU MIGHT BE A WINNER TODAY! ENTER BY LEAVING A COMMENT AND TELL US WHAT BOOK(S) YOU WANT TO WIN. PLEASE LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS SO WE CAN CONTACT YOU.

From now until December 25th, we're giving away our cozy mystery books each day to readers! To enter, just leave a comment about a book on the tree you'd like to read and your name will automatically be entered!

FIND US!

Deborah Malone

www.deborah-malone.com

deborahsbutterflyjourney.blogspot.com 

Nancy Jill Thames

http:www.nancy-jill.blogspot.com

Nancy Jill Thames on Facebook 

Linda P. Kozar

Linda's website

Linda Kozar on Facebook

S. Dionne Moore

S. Dionne Moore's Website
Join me on Pinterest for recipes and news on books

C.L. Ragsdale

Cindy's Books

Traci Hilton

http:www.tracihilton.com

http://www.facebook.com/tracihilton

AND A CUP OF COZY is FREE on Amazon and Smashwords (ebook). This book is our gift to you! A petite collection of charming Christmas mysteries and holiday recipes as well as SNEAK PEEKS at upcoming mysteries by the authors of Cozy Mystery Magazine!

A Christmas Card

From the Authors of Cozy Mystery Magazine

**************************************

Wishing you a Merry Christmas 

and a Happy New Year!

Kindle  Nook  Smashwords  Kobo

A Free Gift for You!
Book 1
"Murder in Half Moon Bay"
by Nancy Jill Thames

 May God Bless Us, Everyone.

 ~Nancy Jill Thames~

Debra Malone

Linda P. Kozar

Traci Tyne Hilton

                                                                                              

C.L. Ragsdale

S. Dionne Moore