"There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind."
C.S. Lewis
HAPPY NEW YEAR! A quarter into the first century of the second millennium, can you believe it? I'm thrilled to be turning the chapter on 2024--that was some ride, LOL!
I hope you had a festive holiday season. We certainly enjoyed our time under the thousands of twinkle lights here at the humble abode. Are you ready for the new year and all that it may bring?
Let's talk about the BOOKS: This year I'm super excited for my new projects--all of them involve writers (authors, will you see yourself in any of the characters? You never know...)!
I have a short story whodunnit coming out in February (to be published in Kindle Shorts, a new venture for me). It's a murder mystery with a literary twist just in time for Valentine's, bwa-ha-ha-ha! 💞
Book 10 in my cozy mystery series has begun (GASP). Gemma is making her author debut, and of course, as a celebrated writer of a somewhat controversial, best-selling book, she's facing the wrath of disgruntled subjects, jealous contemporaries, and critics in the publishing world who want to see her newfound fame go up in flames. Hold on to your book covers, her first book may be her last! 📚
And finally, I'm plotting a standalone whodunnit involving mystery novel contemporaries set in a make-believe version of one of my favorite places to visit on the California coast. I've always wanted to take a swim in the indoor pool at Hearst Castle. Perhaps in this tale, my wish may be granted. This story is developing...
Travel Plans: As of this writing, our travels this year will be primarily stateside--with trips planned to visit family and friends in the U.S. Another Viking cruise is booked, with us heading back to the gorgeous wilds of the Alaskan Inside Passage. We'll see how this year progresses--who knows, we may make a visit across the pond or up north--especially if Canada and Greenland become the 51st and 52nd states, LOL. 😍❄️
Make America Healthy Again: Politics aside, I am truly excited to see Bobby Kennedy leading the MAHA charge to lead reforms in the food and medical industries. It's been shocking to learn about all the shady dealings going on behind the scenes between industry and government, most of which have been harmful to our health and livelihood. I'm watching this with great interest and adopting lifestyle changes in my diet and exercise routines. It's time to get healthy!
For 2025, I have high hopes for our country and world. Here's to a wonderful year for us all! HAPPY NEW YEAR! It's Wednesday, time for Dear Diary:
Many Thanks to the Holiday Booklovers!
Huge shoutout and thank you to the readers who picked up copies of my holiday mysteries. I truly appreciate your support and hope you enjoyed the holiday whodunnits! Thank You!
My Reads and Reviews
Wrapping up the holidays and mysteries this month from the writers of X...
When tragedy strikes, Juliet's world collapses as overwhelming sorrow and grief consume her. A chance meeting brings new hope and love, but fate sometimes has other plans.
Author Perez tells a poignant tale of a woman's resilience in the hardest of times. This is a holiday story that will make you appreciate your blessings and continue to hope even in the darkest of days. An inspirational read for the season!
Dame Christie pens some unexpected gems in this collection of short stories and poems that explore events and emotions of the holiday season. From biblical times to everyday life, she explores what might have occurred in imaginative narratives and settings.
As a huge Christie fan, this was a treat for me to read and experience this holiday season. A highly recommended read!
In this year's collection of holiday whodunnits, authors were given three rules: their tales must be set in part at The Mysterious Bookshop, occur at Christmastime, and of course must involve a crime of sorts. The authors delivered!
I really enjoyed the mystery stories, ranging from the suspenseful to zany, with all evoking the magic and enigmas of the holiday season. A great read for readers who love a bit of mystery during Christmastime!
The start of a new semester at Oxford university brings together new friends and old. And murder.When a famous 'it girl' is found murdered, the search is on, uncovering a plethora of motives and suspects.
Aspiring writer Ursula Flowerbutton is determined to get the scoop, ensuring her place as a reporter on the school newspaper, Cherwell. Her sleuthing has her connecting some very unexpected dots with the help of her newfound friends. Will her first assignment be her last? A highly recommended read for cozy mystery fans!
A Trip Back to a Coastal Favorite!
Along with the New Year, comes my birthday this Friday! The OH and I will be celebrating the occasion once again at the Ritz in Half Moon Bay. I love roaming the coastal paths and watching the waves crash into the magnificent cliffs. Pics next time!
Welcome to my world. Wishing you and yours a wonderful New Year!
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. Let the writing commence! If you have a new book coming out this year, please LMK. I'd love to read what you write! Gemma and Rikkhe approve.💖👑
