“Summer's lease hath all too short a date.”
― William Shakespeare
Hard to believe July will take its final bow for 2021 this week. In the next month, schools will be in session, temperatures (and tantrums) will likely soar (will the heat and constant public discord over everything ever cease?), and for us, a few more trips and events are on the horizon... #FingersCrossed
I've mentioned the Bouchercon mystery conference in New Orleans coming up the end of August. It looks like all systems are still a go as of this writing, although it's highly likely mask mandates will be in full force with the Delta variant spread in high gear. I'm super excited to announce I have been asked to participate as a panel member for a session at this year's conference on the topic of Amateur Sleuths; Armchair Quarterbacking! This is my first time ever speaking publicly at a writer's conference, and I'm so stoked to talk about this topic and my books during the session.
I wonder how Gemma's sleuthing style will compare to the others? I know many of her conversations and deliberations occur during cocktail hour or at the dinner table (one must keep up one's strength finding all those, ahem, bodies)--let's not forget Aunt Pippa dropping the logs in the fire to make sparks fly with a hint or two. Kyle's a great wing man and of course, we now have Figgy and her extrasensory perceptions helping to figure things out too. I'm studying up on the topic to make sure I can add to the discussion with my little gray cells--this is one assignment I'm very excited to have...If you have any 'clues' to offer on the topic--I'd love to hear from you!
We're staying cool in the pool at the home front. I simply do not do well when the temps rise over 95-100 degrees, dry heat or not--it's hot! I'm managing my hours, working at night/early mornings when it's cool. Edits are being completed for Christmas Bizarre with the fabulous Theresa Snyder and Bibiana Krall is still rocking those book trailers!
Enjoy these final, hazy days of July and the fun times they bring. It's Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:
It's a star studded trip across the pond that I just love!
The new trailer for Deadly Receptions: The Debut of Castlewood Manor hits all the high spots of book 3 in the series---a #royal wedding like no other, luxury travels for the global premier of Castlewood Manor, the Telly Tiara awards, and of course the climatic scenes as Gemma takes Kyle around the shores of Malibu. This tale has many bittersweet moments and a cliffhanger ending...
Calling all fashionistas, Mode de Veuve Noire is coming soon in Tangled Webs! This is one of my darker stories in the collection with the focus on the me-buy-this influencers. What happens when things spiral out of control and your reputation loses its sparkle? Let's just say it may not turn out picture perfect....dun-dun-dun.
A heavenly dilemma this week from the writers of Twitter...
Author S.S. Bazinet, A Vampire in Heaven, Book Two of the Sentenced to Heaven series 5⭐
For Alan, his transition into Heaven hasn't gone as smoothly as planned. His vampiric presence has caused quite the celestial stir amongst the former humans, canines and felines and even the big, winged guy himself, Raphael. Will he be able to settle in and find his place within the pearly gates, or will his presence continue to cause angst within the ranks?
His friend Manley; a pretty, angelic, keeper Ralph; Raphael; and doggie Nippy are trying to help him find his heavenly niche, but like many souls, Alan faces a few mindly obstacles that need to be addressed. Author Bazinet weaves a heartwarming tale of compassion, change, and the power of heavenly love. This is a charming, uplifting read sure to make you smile--highly recommended!
Next up in the #reading queue:
Well, we're in the final week of #ChristmasInJuly and there's only 90 some-odd days left until #Halloween--why not dust off the cookbooks and cocktail recipes to do some taste testing before the holidays hit!? I'm always ready to eat, drink and be scary--how 'bout you? The #YouTube link to the show is here:
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. There's still time to take in a #ChristmasInJuly cozy mystery tale! Gemma and Rikkhe approve🎀🌴
I'm so excited to see you in Bouchercon! We'll have our masks on, but I have a feeling I'll recognize you...😉 Looking forward to your panel, too.
I love the photos in your post, as always, and I hope you're managing to stay cool this last week of July. I just came in from watering the plants and walking the dog and I'm wiped out.
Have a great Wednesday! 👑😍
Happy Wednesday and I always appreciate your positive and beautiful midweek posts. Congrats on participating at the conference! (I guess you’ll be socked with wet heat at NOLA!) Thanks for the beauty and inspiration.
As always a fantastic post! Fingers crossed on Bouchercon still happening. it's getting cra-cra down south again. So am looking forward to going and learning. Way to go on the writer's panel! You will rock it! Have a fabulous day and as always congrats to the writers highlighted and the Wednesday rocket boost. xox