Tag Archive | review

Verbiage From Literary Titan

Feb21

Book Link

Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen by Mary Schmidt presents a riveting narrative centered around Kim Dailey’s profound personal upheaval. The story begins as Kim uncovers a shocking truth about her husband of five years, leading her into a vortex of emotional and physical danger. The discovery of her name atop her husband’s ominous hit list propels Kim into an unforeseen journey of survival and self-discovery.

The novel is captivating from the outset, with Schmidt’s meticulous writing effortlessly drawing the reader into Kim’s world. The intimate portrayal of Kim’s life with her husband, Steve, and the subsequent unraveling of their seemingly idyllic existence is both compelling and emotionally resonant. Schmidt’s narrative deftly navigates the complexities of betrayal and resilience, making Christmas in Evergreen a page-turner. Kim’s character is particularly engaging, her strength and vulnerability painted with a realistic brush. The suspenseful elements, particularly the looming threat of assassination, add a thrilling dimension to the plot. Schmidt’s ability to intertwine themes of suspense, romance, and mystery is noteworthy, crafting a story that is as much about self-discovery and new beginnings as it is about love and danger. The novel’s detailed settings and well-crafted dialogue enhance its immersive quality. Each character is rendered with depth, allowing readers to feel a genuine connection to their journeys. The twists and turns of the plot maintain a gripping pace, ensuring that readers remain engaged until the final page.

Christmas in Evergreen is a commendable work by Mary Schmidt, showcasing her talent for creating a multifaceted story that blends mystery, thriller, and romance elements. It is a recommended read for those who appreciate a story that skillfully combines suspense with emotional depth, set against the backdrop of a festive season. Schmidt’s next work is eagerly anticipated as she continues to establish herself as a versatile and skilled storyteller.

Pages: 165 | ASIN : B0CRGH8ZVY

The Crown for Castlewood Manor

Dec5

Book Link

From Amazon:

Let the competition begin!
The stately grounds are breathtaking, the country house is pristine, and a murderer lurks in the shadows.

From the desk of award winning, cozy mystery author, Veronica Cline Barton — a clever whodunnit sure to make your crowns spin.

2018 New Apple Awards – Official Selection: Mystery

“Fans of TV shows like Downton Abbey will no doubt be drawn in by the “everything old is new again” escapist fantasy of Gemma’s vivid and entertaining adventures in bucolic England.“ ~ KIRKUS REVIEWS

“A vibrant (country) manor tale with a striking protagonist!”

“Elegance, murder, romance, encapsulated in a well-written cozy mystery.”

American heiress, Gemma Lancaster Phillips lends her British cousin a hand when his country house estate competes for the set location of a highly anticipated, English television series. The grounds are manicured, the mansion is polished, and the servants are poised.

What Gemma doesn’t realize is that this competition is life or death, and someone is taking that challenge literally. The occupants of one home are killed in an automobile accident, and murder becomes a frequent occurrence at the other locations.

Who is behind the mayhem? Selection would be a major coup for both the estate and the community.

At first the other contestants seem to be likely suspects, but no one is quite certain as the tragedies continue. Could it even be Gemma’s beloved cousin Evan, the surviving heir to the Lancaster fortune, or Kyle, his best friend and estate manager?

With the Royal family in attendance at each event, the puzzle becomes a crucial one for Scotland Yard, and they enlist Gemma’s help to solve the mystery.

When the competition’s winner is announced on New Year’s Eve, will Gemma’s future be forever tied to her ancestral past?

“A beautiful, intelligent woman, a handsome love interest, grand manor, glittery affairs, murder and mayhem, and a mystery to unfold. What else can you ask for in this well-written, cozy mystery?”

Start the series now!

My Review:

What an awesome tale of murder, magic, love, mystery, romance, a ghost or two, the magic of royalty and Hollywood thrown into a mix of grand proportions fit for a king and queen. The opulence of an English manor hall decked out with more baubles and finery that rivals any castle, the lot of vintage clothing finely stored, the jewels and tiaras aplenty mixed with village life and real life of love, loss, jealousy, and intense rivalry makes for the perfect English romance, mystery, and muder. Did I write about the delectable foods? Five stars.