Murder Most Foul by JoAnne Myers (Contest!)

Hello Bobbi, it is great to be back. I will be awarding two lucky people who comment each a paperback or PDF of their choice. The choices are: Murder Most Foul, Wicked Intentions, Twisted Love, The Crime of the Century, Flagitious, Loves, Myths, and Monsters, or Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between.

NEVER GIVE UP: by JoAnne Myers

For as long as I can remember, I have had an artistic flare-whether that be for writing, painting, sewing or drawing. I recall as a child how much I enjoyed drawing. The writing came later. My seventh grade English teacher was Mrs. Henderson-a young mother and wife. She gave us a writing assignment and after gifting me with an A+ told me I should consider writing as a career. She meant as a journalist. I did not take her advise and become a journalist (one of my many misgivings). My mind went toward other things as many young girls dream of-a husband, home, and family of my own. I put my love for writing and painting on hold for years. I unfortunately married a man who like my mother never encouraged me to be artistic. It was not until my children were grown and I no longer had a husband, that I went back to my first love-art. I got a late start, but always encouraged my children and others to partake of artistic endeavors. I now have seven books under contract with three publishing houses. So my words to you all, is that no matter what road you choose, never forget your passion, and always keep it close to heart. Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from enjoying your natural talents. You might need to put art on a temporary hold, but never ever give up.

Blurb for “Murder Most Foul” – a detective/mystery

When two dismembered torsos wash up on the banks of the local river in the small industrial town of Pleasant Valley, residents are horrified. Between contradicting statements, police ineptitude, lust, lies, manipulation, incest, the motorcycle gang The Devil’s Disciples, crooked cops, and a botched crime scene, everyone becomes a suspect.

The young beautiful Jackie Reeves, a registered nurse, believes the killer is a man from her past. She contacts the dangerously handsome FBI Agent Walker Harmon. An arrest is made, but Harmon and Jackie believe an innocent man is being railroaded by local cops. How far will these lover’s go to solve this heinous crime before anymore killings. Determined to find the truth, Agent Harmon and Jackie are forced to run a gauntlet of deep trouble and turmoil, which marks them for death.

Excerpt and Setting: F.B.I. Agent Walker Harmon pays suspect and ex-detective Jack Malloy a visit.

Minutes later, Agent Harmon was knocking on the door of his adversary. The Agent found the ex-golden boy, playing pool in a custom-designed game room.

“Care to shoot some pool, Harmon?” Malloy asked, pocketing the three-ball in his solo effort. “I’ve been expecting you.”

“I would have been here sooner, but something came up.”

“You mean your conversation with Barstow? I just got the phone call,” Malloy said, and banged in another shot. “As much candy as he eats, I‘m surprised he’s not dead. For myself, I hope to get shot by a jealous husband.”
Harmon frowned at such conceit. “I’m sure you will be.” Harmon’s initial visual sweep of the room showed an elaborate collection of exotic animal heads and civil war weapons. He turned to Malloy, “You prospered being a cop.”

“My wife came from money,” Malloy lied.

Harmon knew it, too. The spacious room contained a fifty-one- inch television screen, two fifty-four-inch ceiling fans, a pinball machine, and a built-in stereo system. He opened with, “Why was your investigation centered on Vernon James and no one else?”

“Thomas and I caught James in insignificant lies early in the investigation. If he’d lie about insignificant things, he’d lie about important things, like murder,” Malloy said.

“Just because Vernon James is a liar and pervert, doesn’t make him a murderer,” Harmon replied.

“Maybe not, but James was also obsessed with obtaining personal articles of Lorena’s,” Malloy said.

“You mean her diary and the letters she sent to Dorothy Connors?” Harmon asked. “Perhaps Vernon wanted those items for fear of public humiliation, or blackmail from the teenagers.”

“That’s possible, but everything pointed to Vernon James from where I stood,” said Malloy, chug-a-lugging his beer.

“There are several witnesses.”

“Yeah, and one of those witnesses is your girlfriend. The others are drunks, bums and drug users,” Malloy stated, adamantly.

“Well, then, explain the father and son witnesses who saw a man fitting your description emerging from the cornfield, where the limbs were found, early morning on October 14th,” Harmon said. “And those two men were acquainted with you for years.”

“I was nowhere near that cornfield on the evening of October 14th nor the morning of October 15th,” Malloy said firmly.

“Then where were you at the time of the murders?”

Malloy replied, “Um…er…with…uh…a lady friend.”

“And I’m sure she’ll vouch for you,” Harmon said.

Sitting back, Malloy said. “Lorena had a lot of men mad at her.”

“Were you one of them?” Harmon asked.

“Me and Lorena had a couple of good times, that’s all it was.”

“One of those good times got you canned, didn’t they?”

“Like I said, there were mistakes made,” Malloy confessed.

“That’s the understatement of the year,” Harmon scoffed. “First you seduce the dead girl just before her demise, destroy evidence, then refuse to look at other suspects. Are you hiding something?”

“Look, we’re through talking. My statement is in writing at the Sheriff’s Department. If you want to discuss anything further, do it through my attorney.”

Reviews for “Murder Most Foul”

1. 5 ***** BTS Magazine-December 2013 Issue 17- Reviewer Marie Haney

Review: The author recreates the scenes with dramatic fashion, adding characters that are so realistic; it feels like you’re living the moment right along with them. She is a wonderful storyteller, paying attention to every intricate detail and leaving you hanging onto every word. If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, this book will definitely not disappoint!

2. Goodreads author James gives “Murder Most Foul” 5***** on March 2013
Review: What can I say about this book? I absolutely loved it. It is one of those books that when you start it is very hard to put down. Everything is very descriptive and exciting it will always keep your interest peaked for more. Maybe the only way it could be better for me is reading it aloud to others around a campfire. It is a wonderfull read. Well done JoAnne Myers, well done.

3. Goodreads author Emily Capeles gives “Murder Most Foul” 4 **** on June 2013

Author Bio:
I have been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of my life. Besides having several novels under my belt, I canvas paint.
When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, I spend time with relatives, and volunteer my time within the community. I am a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. I believe in family values and following your dreams. My original canvas paintings, can be found at: booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Author News: Murder Most Foul is being transformed into a screenplay so that I may offer it to production companies for a film project. Wish me luck.

Other books by JoAnne:

“WICKED INTENTIONS” a paranormal/mystery anthology
“LOVES’, MYTHS’ AND MONSTERS’,” a fantasy anthology
“THE CRIME OF THE CENTURY,” a biography true-crime
“POEMS ABOUT LIFE, LOVE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN”
“TWISTED LOVE,” a true-crime anthology
“FLAGITIOUS,” a crime/mystery anthology

Contact JoAnne:

Email: joannemyers@frontier.com
Amazon Author Page: http://amazon.com/author/joannemyers
Facebook Author Page: http://facebook.com/authorpage.joannemyers

Website: Books and Paintings by JoAnne

http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

JoAnne’s Blogs:

Books and Paintings by JoAnne Blog: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com/page2

Jo Anne’s Blog: http://joannemyers.blogspot.com/

JoAnne’s WordPress Blog:

http://joannemyerswordpressblog.wordpress.com/

Jo Anne’s Postings: https://joannemyers.wordpress.com/

Buy Links:

http://www.melange-books.com/authors/joannemyers/MMF.html

Lulu Paperback:

http://www.lulu.com/shop/joanne-myers/murder-most-foul/paperback/product-21183493.html

Barnes & Noble Paperback:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-most-foul-joanne-myers/1102906264?ean=9781612357201

February Madness: Releases, Book Signings & Bundles.

Oh my gosh! So much happening, really fast!
Coming up 1st the release of…
Operation Hook-Up: Winter Heat in my new Operation Hook-Up, “You Book Em- We Hook Em” dating site series!

Blurb: When Rayanna won the ski trip she thought she’d hit the jackpot.
She had no idea how right she’d be.
This trip took all inclusive to steamy new levels.
But that’s the whole idea of…
“Operation Hook-Up; You Book Em, We Hook Em”
Then, we’ll its surviving Friday the 13th. So whaddaya think, a good luck or bad luck day?
Next up, the Valentine’s Day book signing at My Favorite Books in Tallahassee Florida. Not only will authors M.v. Freeman, Katherine Bone and myself have many of our print books with us, BUT, there will also be, author swag, chocolate AND a large Valentine’s Day themed giveaway basket for one lucky winner.11:00-1:00 -We’d love to see you!

Lastly February is the final month to get your hands on the Extraordinary Love Boxed Set! 9 full length (or near full length) paranormal stories for UNDER $1.00! Last I saw from Amazon the set went for .78 cents. Beyond the money though– the set will be NOT be available at ALL!

Grab it here: http://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Love-Enthralling-Paranormal-Romances-ebook/dp/B00MEWCG4A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1423590246&sr=8-1&keywords=extraordinary+love

The Pros and Cons of Self Publishing-by JoAnne Myers

Please welcome back JoAnne Myers coming in to speak to us with publishing tidbits AND a new release!

Hello all, I am pleased to be back. Again, I will be awarding two people who comment their choice of either a paperback or PDF of one of my books.

The Pros and Cons of Self Publishing-by JoAnne Myers

The best thing about self-publishing is that you are guaranteed to be published, no matter what type book you choose to write. Traditional publishers often look for something not yet written about, or seldom written about; such as true life alien abductions, or what Earth might be like in the year 4000, if humans last that long.

Self-publishing allows the author more leeway with subject matter. The author can tell it like it is; unlike traditional publishers who generally follow a code of conduct, for the fear of treading on someone’s toes. Traditional publishers always have that fear of being sued for libel, whereas self-publishers tend to not care what others think.

With self publishing every detail is up to the author. From hiring a professional editor if the self publishing author is not prolific in the English language. Editing is expensive, and every book, even self publishing needs some editing to help polish the final product. Self-publishing does offer editing and marketing services, but for an additional price, that can be expensive. All that work is taken care of by a traditional publisher, which means less headaches and work for the author.

When it comes to book covers, self-publishing companies usually give the author a selection of artwork to choose from. Some of this artwork is free, but some usually cost a few dollars. The free artwork is seldom great, and might not coincide with the books material. For paid artwork at self-publishing companies, the artwork is upgraded and more pleasing to the eye, but is an extra cost, which might for some self-publishers, mean an extra dent in their pocketbooks.

Traditional publishers have their own art department, which means the author is guaranteed a terrific book cover, which is included in the contract. Both self-publishing and traditional publishing companies, though, usually allow the author to use their own artwork if the author chooses too, especially if the book is about the author’s family, pet, friends, or profession. Using personal artwork adds a touch of personification and genuine sincerity to the book; which is always a good selling point.

When it comes to any type of artwork, whether it be books, jewelry, or candles, artwork is usually a hard product to sell. If it were easy, all artists and authors would be wealthy.

With many traditional publishing houses, they get an average of 60% of sales, and the author is left with 40%. I understand Lulu allows 80% of the royalties to go to the author, and Amazon allows 70%, but that percentage is only applicable for books sold to certain countries outside of the U.S., such as Brazil, Japan, Mexico, and India, and only for titles enrolled in KDP Select. This in reality, means that the author receives an average 35% of the sales, and Amazon gets the other 65%.

An author can struggle with locating a traditional publishing company for many reasons. They have written a book that only they are interested in; such as their family history. I don’t believe most would be interested in reading about someone else’s family tree, unless it is as brilliant as the book Roots, was. If a author is struggling with locating a traditional publishing company, than self-publishing is for them. I for one believe that if a writer has written a book, they should continue seeking out the traditional publishing company. This only applies if their book is polished and ready for sale. If a book has many graphical errors, it will not be taken seriously by a traditional publisher. Getting away with graphical errors in a self-published book is possible, but it would be disappointing and frustrating to the reader. Whether the book is self-published or traditionally published, the final product should be free of errors, and entertaining, and pleasing to the eye. In my opinion, when it comes to Lulu versus Amazon, Amazon bites the dust. Good luck.

Blurbs for “Loves, Myths and Monsters” 11 tales of fantasy, intrigue, and mystery, entwined within the human world

Welcome To Anna
Little does 17 year old Zoe, realize, but the Chupracabra followed her to Ohio from South America. What happens next is a series of chilling mysteries, and unsuspecting friendships and love.

The Hunter’s Bride
When all game warden Daren Abram, had to worry about was which lucky lady to woo, he comes to the realization that his town is being stalked by the reincarnation of the town’s legend.

Moon People
For teenage mermaid Constance, coming to the quaint seaside town of Willowick, is heavenly, until she falls for mortal boy Drake. For the town to survive, Constance is forced to choose between her kind and the boy and town she loves.

The Pack
When young Lycan Sonny Red Blanket, a Shawnee Indian falls for mortal girl Drenda Way, he must save her from his fellow Lycan’s and stop a werewolf uprising.

The Bidding
Apiologist 34-year-old Duncan McPherson goes to Circleville, Ohio, to investigate a series of mysterious bee attacks. What is uncovered proves to be more dark and sinister then anyone imaged.

The Agreement
Incarcerated in the abandoned Roseville jail, is the last thing rich college student and speeder Brice Conrad, needs. With an “agreement” between the town and a permanent demonic “guest”, only the unfortunate ones know the truth, but do not live to tell.

For The Love Of Ginnie
Handsome bachelor and Scientist Alex Anderson from the thirtieth century, returns to the Civil War with time serum to save his beloved Ginnie Wade from a snipers bullet, while finding a roller coaster ride of joy and perils.

Is It Only A Myth?
When 32-year-old Vinton County Sheriff, James “Jim” Connors, discovers he has a Mothman hunting in his county, he stops at nothing to save his citizens.

The Proposition
The rough and ready cowboy John Queenie gets the shock of his life, when the ad to break a “wild filly” turns out to be a fiery Quaker girl named Tess. This is a story proving love conquers all.

The House On Shady Lane
A seemingly loving family turns out to be serial killers in 1873.

Love’s Curse
When an Egypt love curse scroll is stolen from a Dean’s office, persons begin dying in bizarre and grisly ways, with the college’s mascot a Viking King statue jokingly blamed for it.

Excerpt Setting: Characters Det. Wang and love interest Amunet visit Amunet’s college after hours. While there, Det. Wang encounters murder suspect Karla, forging through her recently murdered daughters locker. Det. Wang insists on an inappropriate search of Karla’s person.

Excerpt: She trembled with forbidden pleasure, finding his large strong hands inviting. Her nipples hardened. “I’ll have your badge for this,” she whispered.
He leaned in and sighed, “No one will believe you; you’re a murder suspect.” Then he placed his hands on her firm buttocks, and, caressing her hips and back with both hands, he blew on the back of her soft, highly fragrant neck.
“You’re a bastard,” she moaned, turning over to give him better access to her oh-so-willing front.
“Yes, but the ladies love me, anyway.” He unbuttoned her white silk blouse to suckle her breasts. “And you will too.” They locked lips. The kiss was long and hot. But both were so engrossed, neither knew they had an audience.
Karla kissed him in return and slid her hands up his shirt and onto his sweaty skin. He then reached under her skirt and ripped off her moist panties. She in turn unzipped his jeans, which allowed them to bump buggies against the lockers.
While searching the passageways for her ride, Amunet was alerted by the unmistakable sounds of fornication coming from the nearby hall. She crept to the metal and glass door behind her.
“Kill her!” Amunet ordered, pointing her puppet at Karla.
The bronze monster immediately obeyed by kicking down the door.
“No! No!” Karla shouted, trying to hide beneath a desk. Her weak attempt to escape, however, proved useless.
The Viking King reached in and dragged her into the open.
Again she screamed, just before the icon bit her face off.

Author Bio:

JoAnne has been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of her life. Besides having several novels under her belt, JoAnne canvas paints. When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, JoAnne spends time with relatives, and volunteers her time within the community. JoAnne is a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. JoAnne believes in family values and following your dreams. JoAnne’s original canvas paintings, can be found at: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Buy Links:

MELANGE IN PRINT AND EBOOK:

http://www.melange-books.com/authors/joannemyers/LMM.html

LULU in print

http://www.lulu.com/shop/joanne-myers/loves-myths-and-monsters/paperback/product-21546632.html

AMAZON KINDLE STORE

Loves, Myths and Monsters: A Collection of Folk and Urban Myths

Other books by JoAnne:

Murder Most Foul-a detective/mystery
Wicked Intentions-7 bone chilling paranormal tales
The Crime of the Century-a biography true crime
Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between
Twisted Love-a biography true crime anthology
Flagitious-a crime/mystery anthology

Contact JoAnne:

Email: joannemyers@frontier.com

Facebook Profile Page: http://www.facebook.com/joanne.myers.927

Twitter: http://twitter.com/scooterismine/

Amazon Author Page: http://amazon.com/author/joannemyers
Facebook Author Page: http://facebook.com/authorpage.joannemyers

Website: Books and Paintings by JoAnne

http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

JoAnne’s Blogs:

Books and Paintings by JoAnne Blog: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com/page2

Jo Anne’s Blog: http://joannemyers.blogspot.com/

JoAnne’s WordPress Blog:

http://joannemyerswordpressblog.wordpress.com/

Jo Anne’s Postings: https://joannemyers.wordpress.com/

Please welcome back, JoAnne Myers & Twisted Love!

Hello Bobbi, and thank you for having me back. Again, I will be awarding two people who comment their choice of one of my books in paperback of PDF format. The choices are, Murder Most Foul, Wicked Intentions, Twisted Love, The Crime of the Century, Flagitious, Loves, Myths, and Monsters, or Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between. Its your choice.

Also, I would like to say that I am seeking guest authors for my 4 blogs.

Can you tell us a little about yourself? I have been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of my life. Besides having 7 novels under my belt, I canvas paint. I am a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. I believe in family values and following your dreams. My original canvas paintings, can be found at: booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

What is your book “Twisted Love” about? It is a biography true crime anthology concerning actual cases from Ohio and surrounding states.

What do you do when you’re not writing? I have a day job at a nursing home. I spend time with relatives, my dog Jasmine, and volunteer my time within the community.

What genres do you write in? A write fantasy, paranormal, true crime, mystery and poetry.

Is there anything you will never write about? Erotica. It is to naughty.

Is there anything you would tell aspiring writers? Never give up. If you want to be published, you must stay with it.

What was the hardest part of writing “Twisted Love”? Determining how many stories the book should contain, so I would know when to end it.

What do you find fascinating about writing true crime? The fact that it is real. That someone experienced such horror, and that bad people do exist. It amazes and horrifies me to know that we live in a world of such brutality and evil.

Which is your 7 books is your favorite and why? That would be Loves, Myths, and Monsters”, because it is so diverse with all the different starring characters, such as the Mothman, the Chupracabra, mermaids, reincarnation, a demonic cellmate, a Quaker love story, werewolves, and a serial killer family from 1873. This book was so enjoyable and easy to write. I had it completed in 5 months. Some of my books took 2 years to compile.

Blurbs for “Twisted Love” 12 cases of love gone bad

It’s a chilling reality that homicide investigators know all too well: the last face most murder victims see is not that of a stranger, but of someone familiar.

The End of Autumn-To keep from paying child support for his three children, Rodney Williams, plots with his parents to kidnap his estranged wife, 25-year old Autumn, in broad daylight. This 2011 crime shocked the small community of Logan, Ohio.

Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing-In 2011, 53 year old Russell Strothers, and his teenage accomplice find their victims through Craigslist and strike with calculating and deadly force.

A Senseless Killing-This 2010 case uncovers how a 40 year old likable barmaid was lured to her death after she rejects her young admirers sexual advances.

The Death of Innocence-This 2011 murder case involved 4 year old Marcie Willis, and her evil stepmother 25 year old Cheryl, from the small bedroom community of The Plains, Ohio.

The Girl Not Forgotten-This cold case took 26 years to solve, but brought justice for 13-year-old Holly Buford, and put serial rapist, 40-year-old Stanley Snead, behind bars.

The Possession-When 29-year-old Valerie Harris severs the penis of her sexually abusive father, it makes national news in 2007.

Home Town Hero-When deaf students are murdered in the prestigious Rose Brick College of the Deaf in 2008, everyone is shocked when discovering the killer is one of their own.

Horrible Sin-When 42 year old Fortune Teller Sally Vu and her 21-year-old daughter Veronica are discovered murdered and physically desecrated, in 2001, evidence points to revenge and a spell gone wrong.

All For the Family-In 2003, as a way to erase her 22-year-old husbands criminal past, 19 year old Molly Abbott devises a ghoulish and desperate strategy.

Thicker Than Water?-When 52 year old Kim Michaels is found dismembered inside her burned out home in 1996, officers find the crime more confusing than a jig saw puzzle.

Mail Order Murder-The last thing the beautiful Russian mail order bride Anna dreamed of in 2001, was being murdered by her controlling and older American husband.

Where’s Christopher?-When four year old Christopher Ellis goes missing, numerous excuses and an odd odor emanating from the backyard in 1991, raises eyebrows.

Author Bio:

I have been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of my life. Besides having 7 novels under my belt, I canvas paint.
When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, I spend time with relatives, my dog Jasmine, and volunteer my time within the community. I am a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. I believe in family values and following your dreams. My original canvas paintings, can be found at: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Other Available Books:

Murder Most Foul-a detective/mystery
Wicked Intentions- a paranormal anthology
Loves, Myths, and Monsters- a fantasy anthology
The Crime of the Century- a biography true crime
Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between
Flagitious-a detective/mystery anthology

Other places to find Jo Anne and her books:

Email: joannemyers@frontier.com
Amazon Author Page: http://amazon.com/author/joannemyers
Facebook Author Page: http://facebook.com/authorpage.joannemyers

Main Website: Books and Paintings by JoAnne

http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Jo Anne’s Blogs:

Books and Paintings by JoAnne Blog: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com/page2

JoAnne’s WordPress Blog:

http://joannemyerswordpressblog.wordpress.com/

Jo Anne’s Postings: https://joannemyers.wordpress.com/

Jo Anne’s Blog: http://joannemyers.blogspot.com/

Buy Links: http://www.blackrosewriting.com/other/twisted-love

Twisted Love

Twisted Love

Thanks for coming  by JoAnne and Happy New Year!

Happy New Year & a Freebie!

Its been an emotional roller coaster this season. Sadly our nephew who lived with us (old enough to chose where he wants to live) decided in the heat of the moment, I’m Satan and he’s better off with his mom.
Yes Virginia, this house has rules.
So, we were minus a child during the holiday and are still in the “what’s going on?” stage with his family who have, short of two quick phone calls, been mum on what the plans are for the future living arrangements.
Then the evening of the above revelation that I’m Satan, a storm of all storms rolled in and the kitchen flooded.
We survived the drama and still had a peaceful though melancholy Christmas.
Now as we roll towards the New Year I’ve decided I’m not doing a damn thing the same as last year. Last year rather sucked, not catastrophic or anything, but if something doesn’t work… change it!
No black eyed peas and greens here (never liked them anyway) nope– we’re kicking this year off with cheeseburgers and a baked potato bar.
Also, it’s time for some serious house cleaning. As in I have too much “Stuff.” I gotta let go of something. I can’t keep everything that holds memories. There simply isn’t room anymore.
On a side note, to help ring in the New Year, from the 31st to the 2nd An American Holiday (ebook) will be FREE! So help me spread the word so that those with their new E-Readers have a FREE book to upload.
For those that don’t have ereaders, you do know that the Kindle App is FREE for your phone/computer. Yep. And even on the phone app, the font is page size. Yep. It’s not itty bitty print. Nope, full size.
Well- Hope everyone had an amazing holiday/Christmas and will have a wonderful and prosperous New Year!
Bobbi Romans

A Right to Love, by Author Liza O’Connor

Jacko pays a boy 2 shillings a day to deliver messages. The fellow, Elwood, gets 5 shillings for delivering a message to Jacko and then demands a tip from Jacko, insisting Davy hadn’t given him a farthing (which is 1/4th of a penny).

So was Elwood right to complain, only making 14 shilling plus tips in a 7 day work week?

Let’s see: A common laborer, working 60 hours a week made about 3 shillings and 6 pennies a week.
Well no wonder Jacko gets angry with the boy for a) lying about Davy giving him 5 shillings and b) having the audacity to claim he was being cheated.

Thus, when a small fellow with a great deal of charm shows up on his office door, Jacko has no qualms firing Elwood and giving the new boy a job.

Jacko opened the door and ushered the boy in. He would gladly give the boy a fortune for the return of Xavier, but he had little hope finding his friend would be so easy.

“What’ve you got?”

“Give me my ten thousand pounds first.” The boy bravely held his ground, his grubby small hand stretched forward, palm up.

Jacko admired his pluck. “That’s not the way it works. You tell me what you know and then I decide if it warrants the money.”

The boy’s brow furrowed. “And what if you decide it don’t?”

“Then I’ll pay you what I think it’s worth.”

The boy jammed his hands in his pockets as he stared at his feet muttering beneath his breath.

“What’s your name?”

His head tilted up and his eyes narrowed. “What’s it worth to you?”

The kid reminded him of himself as a scrappy boy. “It could be worth a regular job.”

The boy’s eyes widened as he yanked his hand from his pocket and extended it to Jacko.

“People call me L’il Pete. So do  I get the job?”

Jacko shook his tiny hand. “I’ll give you a try.” He walked to his desk, grabbed pen and paper, and wrote his boarding room address. He handed the slip to the boy. “I’ll pay you two shillings a day to sit in a chair in front of this room and bring me messages from people who stop by. Any tip they give you is yours to keep.”

L’il Pete’s eyes narrowed. “That’s it? Just sit in a chair?”

“You can even sleep if you like.”

The boy shook his head as he wiped his nose on his sleeve. “I wasn’t born yesterday. What’s the git?”

“The ‘git’ is you must keep to your schedule and never lie to me.”

The boy’s head tilted in confusion. “That’s all?”

“Sounds simple, but I’ve yet to find a boy who has the character to do it.”

The small fellow jutted out his chest and snared his thumbs through his belt loops. “I got tons of character. Everybody says so.”

Damn, but he liked this boy. “Which is why you are getting the job. And when you go back there today, if a boy named Elwood shows up, tell him he’s fired.”

“Elwood…” The boy’s face scrunched up as he rubbed his chin with grimy fingers. “How big is he?”

“Good point.” Jacko wrote on another slip of paper, ‘Elwood, you are fired—Jacko.’ He gave it to the boy. “Just give him this.”

The boy nodded and slipped it in his pocket.

Jacko, a gypsy with a great love for stealing, rescues a suffragette from Bedlam. Upon returning the elderly woman to safety, he meets her blue-stocking daughter. Alice has decided she prefers managing her estate farms over London society. She is resigned to never marry until the handsome and surprisingly wealthy man with a dark past and several identities steals her heart.

A Right to Love
Amazon :http://www.amazon.com/Right-Love-Spinoff-Adventures-Xavier-ebook/dp/B00QD68XFE/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1418407233&sr=1-1&keywords=Right+to+Love
Free with Amazon Kindle Unlimited

A Right to Love is a spin off
of the Adventures of Xavier & Vic’s
Humorous, Late Victorian, Romantic Sleuth series

Book 1
The Troublesome Apprentice
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Troublesome-Apprentice-Adventures-Xavier-Book-ebook/dp/B00M7H63VO/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1418407122&sr=8-4&keywords=Liza+O%27Connor

Book 2
The Missing Partner
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Missing-Partner-Adventures-Xavier-Book-ebook/dp/B00NAJQ4ZI/ref=pd_sim_kstore_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0CX5178XXY4FVY89XNGM

Book 3
The Mesmerist
Amazon:http://www.amazon.com/The-Mesmerist-Adventures-Xavier-Book-ebook/dp/B00ONMKZ88/ref=pd_sim_sbs_kstore_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1EPZFPH1ZQX73YASKEVH
All Xavier books Free with Amazon Unlimited

Liza O’Connor was raised badly by feral cats, left the South/Midwest and wandered off to find nicer people on the east coast. There she worked for the meanest man on Wall Street, while her psychotic husband tried to kill her three times. (So much for finding nicer people.) Then one day she declared enough, got a better job, divorced her husband, and fell in love with her new life where people behaved normally. But all those bad behaviors has given her lots of fodder for her humorous romances. Please buy these books, because otherwise, she’ll become grumpy and write troubled novels instead. They will likely traumatize you.

You have been warned.
Mostly humorous books by Liza:

Saving Casey – Old woman reincarnates into troubled teen’s body. (Half funny/half traumatizing)
Ghost Lover—Two British brothers fall in love with the same young woman. Ancestral ghost is called in to fix the situation. And there’s a ghost cat that roams about the book as well. (Humorous Contemporary Romance)
A Long Road to Love Series: (Humorous Contemporary odd Romance)
Worst Week Ever — Laugh out loud week of disasters of Epic proportions.
Oh Stupid Heart — The heart wants what it wants, even if it’s impossible.
Coming to Reason — There is a breaking point when even a saint comes to reason.
Climbing out of Hell — The reconstruction of a terrible man into a great one.
The Troublesome Apprentice — The greatest sleuth in Victorian England hires a young man who turns out to be a young woman.
The Missing Partner — Opps! The greatest sleuth in Victorian England goes missing, leaving Vic to rescue him, a suffragette, and about 100 servants. Not to mention an eviscerating cat. Yes, let’s not mention the cat.
The Mesmerist — The Mesmerist can control people from afar and make them murder for her. Worse yet, Xavier Thorn has fallen under her spell.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT
LIZA O’CONNOR
Investigate these sites:
Liza’s Blog and Website:  http://www.LizaOConnor.com

Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/liza.oconnor.90

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Liza0Connor

  WIN A FREE COPY OF
                                                   A TROUBLESOME APPRENTICE
                                       Just leave me your email address and it’s yours

Welcome Author JoAnne Myers Back w/A NEW Contest!!

Thank you again for having me Bobbi. I will be awarding two lucky people who comment, each a paperback of their choice. The choices are, Murder Most Foul, Wicked Intentions, Twisted Love, The Crime of the Century, Flagitious, Loves, Myths, and Monsters, or Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between. Its your choice.

Writing Mystery

Before writing a word, take some time to jot down key story points. As you’re writing, the story will want to take on a life of its own. Having a handy reference of key points will help keep your story on track and you from pulling your hair out. A list of key points is also helpful when outlining the story plot. You may very well find that the story begins to unfold as you’re writing down the key points. If this happens…let it! Write down any ideas or details that come to you, they’ll come in handy later.
Some key points to consider are; what is the mystery? This is the underlying theme to the entire story so be as in-depth as possible (has there been a murder or a theft or a kidnapping? If so, how and where was it committed?).
Hunt for the culprit. Every good story has at least one antagonist, but what steps must the hero or heroine take to find him/her? How will the villain evade the hero? How is the mystery solved? In mystery writing there are a lot of twists and turns. Write down your initial thoughts for plot twists, red herrings to throw the readers off the trail of the true villain, and of course the final stages of how the good guy will prevail…or does he? You need to decide whether or not the hero or the villain wins in the end. Many hero’s die trying to solve their case. Many are involved in physical altercations with other characters. You must decide how many altercations, the number of characters involved, and what weapons if any are used. It is not a good idea to only engage your characters with fist fighting. Throw in some knives, chains, falling from windows, or my favorite, a poisoning, and other nasty assaults.
Every great story has well rounded characters. We read fiction because we want to be entertained and develop a connection with the characters. Outlining items such as personality traits, physical features, and quirks can help bring your characters to life; a speech impediment, or limp, or a nervous twitch.
For the Protagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, does he/she have a family or pets, what is their driving goal for taking on this particular case? Is the hero a police officer, a person sworn to honesty, pride, and valor. Or is the good guy a private detective being paid to find a certain someone. Or your main character could be a parent or sibling searching for a missing loved one.
For the Antagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, is there an underlying reason for being the antagonist? Perhaps this person is a career criminal. On the other hand, maybe he/she is a good person that suffered an unjust and turned to crime out of bitterness and despair.
Then you have your support characters, who are the color of the story. They provide depth to the story whether good or bad. A support character could be as simple as a loud mouth hot dog vendor standing on a street corner or as in-depth as the villain’s partner in crime. In writing a mystery story, support characters can take on a life of their own with the reader, so make them interesting. Just because they are labeled support characters does not mean they are any less important than the main characters.
Next is the location of the story. When and where is the story set? These two key elements are what bring your story to life. Mystery story writing is a broad genre and could be set in any time period and in any place. When working with actual locations it is a good idea to do research on the location first. Readers want to feel as though they are there with the characters, so being able to accurately describe a location is vital. Time periods are no exception. If the story is set in 1940’s New Orleans, the reader will want to see their surroundings, not just be told the story is taking place in a speakeasy or church. Be descriptive!
A mystery story is not a story without a solid well thought out plot. Some things to consider when developing the story plot: What is the driving force of the mystery? To solve a murder, or rescue a kidnap victim? What does the villain do to thwart the hero? Does the villain get his goons on the hero? Is the hero being set up by the villain and now he is being hunted by police. What other obstacles get in the way of solving the mystery?
One of the most important elements of writing a mystery story is suspense. Giving away too much too soon will bore the reader. It is best if the suspense is sprinkled throughout the story; bring the mystery to light within the first few chapters, then as the story progresses add a clue here and there without revealing the outcome until the final chapter. Do not be afraid to add a “red herring” or false clue, within the stories context. Readers love nothing better than to think they have everything figured out only to find in the end they were mistaken the entire time.
The final few chapters of the story should hold the climax of the conflict and resolution between the hero and villain, including how all of the clues scattered throughout the story cumulatively solves the mystery. A good conclusion gives the reader a sense of closure in finding out how the hero solved the mystery. Remember that not all mysteries have to be completely solved or have a “happy” ending. If you are writing a series of stories, the villain may get away at the end of story #1 with the hero using clues from story #1 to track down the villain in story #2. In mystery story writing, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Blurbs for “Flagitious” a four crime/mystery anthology

“Too Solve His Mother’s Murder”

After his Air Force career was interrupted by his mother’s untimely murder, Steven Moore, returned home. Met with a cold reception of lies, secrets, and threats, he is determined too find Wanda’s killer, even at the cost of his own life. Was Wanda a victim of the legendary Hatchet Man? Was this loving and devoted mother killed because of her shady past, or for her inheritance? Between finding the truth and falling in love, Steven stops at nothing, too solve his mother’s murder.

“The Other Couple’s Child”

Charlotte had it all. A loving and devoted husband. Supportive family and friends, and a house full of beautiful children. Everything was perfect for this Super Mom, until a medical procedure turns her life upside down, and spirals into a child abduction case. Time is running out. Will police arrive in time to save Charlotte and the other couple’s child?

“3381 Market Street”

Katherine Sims, a young widow working for a brokerage firm in a small southeastern town, is tired of the excuses concerning Charlie’s absence. She knows something terrible must have happened to her favorite nephew with the sad blue-eyes. After exposing the killer, Katherine’s life is turned upside down and she finds herself fighting for her life. Filled with maniacal suspects, a Satanic Cult, and danger around each corner, this story depicts one woman’s courage too avenge a child’s murder, while finding unexpected love.

“The Tarot Card Murders”

New Detective, and ex-navel man, twenty-six-year-old Nick Difozzio, returns to his small county determined too abolish crime. Not until death knocked on his door, did he know the face of evil. Will the decorated veteran destroy the Lycanthropes, or will he succumb to their murderess desires and become one of them? He took an oath too protect, honor, and uphold the law, but can he defy the lust, riches, and power offered, or are the ‘dark forces’ stronger than his will?

Excerpt from “To Solve His Mother’s Murder”

Already en route to her place, Steven saw the first smoke, and knew Vivien was in trouble. Using his cell phone, he dialed 911 for the fire department and gunned his engine. Screaming into the stable’s driveway, he arrived just as the arsonist sped away on a dirt bike, but heard the sounds of screaming horses. Vivien and the horses took priority. Running to the nearby water trough, he dove in headfirst then raced inside the smoke-filled structure to meet Vivien limping toward him.
“Steven save the animals,” she begged, and passed out.
Once he had Vivien safely outside, he re-entered the building and, hooding them, ran out the horses. Inside one of the stalls, he found Willy, dead, killed by the arsonist. Then the wails of fire trucks, came over the hills.
Steven patted Vivien’s soiled and bruised face with cool water until she slowly opened her eyes, and whispered. “Hi.”
“Hi, to you, too, darling.” He tenderly kissed her forehead. “You really scared me.”
“Are the horses safe?” she asked.
“As safe as you are now,” he said, while the firemen worked on the fire.
Paramedics patched up Vivien before placing her on a stretcher and transporting her to the local hospital. “I’ll be there shortly, I promise,” he answered with a goodbye kiss.
Once she was on her way, Steven turned to the Fire Chief. “We know it’s arson, but Vivien didn’t recognize the intruder’s voice.”
“Who do you think set the blaze?” the Fire Chief asked. “We don’t have random arsons. You must suspect someone?”
“I’ll have you a list by the morning,” he replied, boarding his truck and hauling ass for the hospital.
On the way, he drove past a hole-in-the-wall beer joint. Parked outside was a bike exactly matching the pyromaniac’s ride. Making a quick U-turn on the gravel road, loud enough to be heard in the next county, he pulled into the parking lot, driving right over the bike. After jumping from the truck and admiring his handiwork, he gleefully said, “Yep. Flat as a pancake.”
When Steven entered the dark musty bar, he gained the attention of all seven patrons at once by shouting, “I’m looking for the son-of-a-bitch driving that piece-of-shit bike sitting outside.”
He met sullen silence. Slouching slowly across the sawdust covering the rickety floor, he eyed, in turn, each of the five men at length wondering. Was the creep who almost killed the woman I love, that toothless old grandpa slurping beer from a mug? Or was it the scrawny thirty-year-old with the dirty work boots?
Gradually, his eyes adjusted to the small room. He scanned the interior. Typical. Walls decorated with cheap, outdated neon beer signs and sleazy posters of big-breasted women perched suggestively on an assortment of bikes. To this assembly, Steven repeated, “I said, who owns that bike I just ran over?”
“I do,” yelled twenty-eight-year-old Heath Hopstetter. Coming out of his chair like a ground-to-air missile, he swung his beer bottle at Steven’s head.
Ducking, Steven returned the favor with a round-house punch to Heath’s big, soft and prominent stomach, knocking the wind out of the Pillsbury Dough Boy. Slowly, Heath sank to the filthy floor.
“Now, mister, we don’t want no trouble in here.” The worn-looking and plumb middle-aged barmaid said and held up her hands.
“This guy ain’t gonna be no trouble at all.” Steven jerked Heath to his feet and thumped him again. This time, his blow sent Heath into the antique jukebox, shattering glass. Nearby patrons grabbed their drinks and ducked.

Author Bio:
JoAnne has been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of her life. Besides having seven novels under her belt, JoAnne canvas paints. When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, JoAnne spends time with relatives, her dog Jasmine, and volunteers her time within the community.
JoAnne is a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center.
JoAnne believes in family values and following your dreams. Her original canvas paintings, can be found at: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Other books by JoAnne:

“WICKED INTENTIONS” a paranormal/mystery anthology
“LOVES’, MYTHS’ AND MONSTERS’,” a fantasy anthology
“THE CRIME OF THE CENTURY,” a biography true-crime
“POEMS ABOUT LIFE, LOVE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN”
“TWISTED LOVE,” a true-crime anthology
“MURDER MOST FOUL,” a detective/mystery

Contact JoAnne:

http://www.facebook.com/joanne.myers.927

http://facebook.com/authorpage.joannemyers

http://amazon.com/author/joannemyers

Email: authorjoannemyers@yahoo.com

Buy links:

Amazon Kindle:

Flagitious

Paperback:

http://www.lulu.com/shop/joanne-myers/flagitious/paperback/product-21812982.html