Laina Turner's Blog

What do you get when you mix thrilling whodunits with dream-worthy vacation destinations?

A collection of irresistible travel-themed stories from experienced mystery authors who deliver intrigue with a twist of wanderlust in their crime fiction.

From the frosty highlands of Scotland to the sun-soaked beaches of Hawaii, these holiday books for adults transport you to places where danger lurks just out of sight, and the perfect alibi hides behind a postcard-worthy view.

Whether you’re a reader of cozy mystery books filled with charming local settings or crave edge-of-your-seat suspense thrills to make your heart race, this holiday anthology has something for every mystery fan. Each vacation novella blends captivating plots with exotic backdrops to create the ultimate escape.

Get ready to unravel secrets in a snowy castle, uncover clues on a tropical shore, and experience suspense in a bustling city.

This mystery anthology guarantees intrigue, surprises, and unforgettable settings. It’s the perfect book to curl up by the fire, lounge poolside, or indulge in a little escapism on your next road trip.

You won’t want to miss your ticket to this mystery-filled adventure!

Read on to discover the lineup of authors and their thrilling holiday-themed tales.

Michele Pariza Wacek: Margaritas and Murder

Murder in paradise! Charlie Kingsley escapes Wisconsin’s winter chill for sunny Cabo, Mexico, hoping for sandy beaches and endless margaritas. But her vacation takes a deadly turn when she stumbles upon a body on the beach, and worse, becomes the prime suspect! Now Charlie must swap her flip-flops for detective shoes to clear her name and catch the killer before her getaway turns into a stay behind bars. Perfect for readers of tropical cozy mysteries, beach vacation whodunits, and amateur sleuth adventures.

Patti Larsen: Plot Todd-EE

A relaxing river glamping trip turns deadly when Becks Hogan and her police chief bestie find themselves stranded in rural Florida—with a murdered raft pilot and no way to call for help. As the current drags them deeper into danger, survival becomes their top priority... but can they solve the mystery before they’re swept away? With a killer on board and hungry alligators circling, time is running out!

Carolyn L Dean: Leis, Lies & Lethal Force

A Hawaiian cozy mystery packed with murder, mystery, and mayhem! When Amanda’s solo getaway turns deadly, she’s thrust into a chilling investigation at her luxury resort. With her reluctant sister-in-law in tow, Amanda uncovers secrets, deception, and danger lurking behind every palm tree. Can she crack the case before her vacation becomes her final destination? Perfect for fans of tropical cozy mysteries and beach resort whodunits.

Joann Keder: Cursed Cousins

A Norwegian wedding, a long-buried family secret, and a tangled mystery. Sunshine’s latest adventure is about to turn the celebration into a race against time! As the bride prepares to toss the bouquet, Sunshine must unravel a web of secrets that could shatter everything. Will she uncover the truth before the final vows?

Carly Winter: Whodunit at the Winery

When Key West antiques dealer Beth Fletcher sets sail on a Caribbean cruise, she expects sun and shopping, not a shocking murder linked to a rare bottle of port. Teaming up with ship entertainer Olivia Morgan (and her mischievous parrot sidekick), Beth dives into a deadly mystery tangled with bootlegger secrets and modern motives. Can this sleuthing duo crack the case before the killer strikes again? Packed with tropical twists, high-stakes clues, and cozy mystery charm, this cruise ship whodunit is a voyage you won’t forget.

Kitty Kildare: Death at the Thistle Inn

After a friend’s wedding promised an exhilarating Scottish escape, plucky sleuth Veronica Vale sees her holiday plans shatter when a baffling locked-room murder mystery erupts, unleashing hidden motives, secret alliances, and dangerous twists in this riveting 1920s British mystery.

Jayna Morrow: Aspic and Old Lace

In the charming small town of Marshall, Texas, museum curator Liz Fletcher is ready for a Victorian Christmas festival—not a murder mystery. But when a fellow historical society member collapses on the runway during the fashion show, Liz is drawn into a twisty whodunit full of secrets, suspects, and red herrings.

Liz can’t resist following the clues, especially when a cryptic riddle hints at a deadly secret from the victim’s past. Will she solve the case and have time to enjoy her Christmas vacation?

B.G. Wood: Witchnapped

A Portland cozy mystery full of magic, mystery, and murder! When witch-lit author Morgan Mallory vanishes, amateur sleuth Gina Biletti dives into a world of secret societies, occult art, and bookish clues. Can Gina solve the spellbinding mystery before she’s the next victim? Readers of paranormal cozy mysteries and bookshop whodunits will adore this cozy adventure.

Mona Marple: The Midnight Flowerpot Fiasco

A charming Yorkshire Coast cozy mystery. Holly and Nick’s peaceful getaway turns deadly when a famous artist falls from the cliffs. Accident or murder? With nosy locals, a seaside bookshop, and a lovable pub dog named Stout, Holly races to uncover the truth before their vacation ends in disaster. Ideal for readers of British cozy mysteries and seaside whodunits.

Wendy Neugent: Port of No Return

A wine country cozy mystery full of twists! When a winery tour turns deadly, amateur sleuth Samantha Rathbone and her boyfriend become prime suspects. With the sheriff on their trail, they must uncork the truth before they're framed for murder. Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries, wine-themed whodunits, and small-town secrets!

L.C. Turner: Betrayed in Belize

Trixie Pristine’s dream vacation to Belize takes a deadly turn when a fellow traveler is found murdered. With danger lurking around every corner and a chilling warning to stop investigating, Trixie teams up with her butler, Javier, to uncover the truth. As suspects pile up and secrets unravel, Trixie must race against time to solve the crime before her tropical getaway becomes her final destination. A suspense-filled cozy mystery packed with twists, danger, and a dash of tropical charm.

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Chapter 1

“I can’t believe this is finally happening.” I clasped my hands together and jumped up and down. The moment I had been waiting for forever! Long before Katy and Willie even started dating, I envisioned them together and left many not-so-subtle hints that they would be a perfect couple. 

My name is Presley Sands, and I live in Hunter’s Hollow. This is my hometown, though I moved to and lived a long time in Chicago, thinking the big city life was for me. However, what you are looking for in your twenties and what you want when you’re a little bit older, ready to settle down, are two different things. 

A while back, I reconnected with someone I went to high school with. When things got serious, we decided to leave Chicago. I sold my retail boutique and took over my mother’s flower shop. Cooper, my now-husband, sold his security business and got into politics. He is the mayor of our small town. 

“I’m sure you’re over the moon; you wanted this to happen for a long time.” Willie chuckled. His last job was as a detective in Chicago, where we met and became great friends, but he’s a deputy sheriff here in Hunter’s Hollow. 

After a tough case and a near-death experience, he decided to retire from the Chicago police force and live a quieter life. That’s when I knew he and Katy were destined to be together. They started out as friends and took their time, which really drove me crazy sometimes, but from firsthand experience, a good relationship is built on a good foundation. Knowing that still didn’t make it any easier to be patient. 

“All that matters is that it’s happening now. She is going to love that ring.” 

“Are you sure? I don’t need anything bigger?” 

It was cute that he was worried, but Katy wasn’t one for any material things, and the diamond in the engagement ring he had picked out fit her style. 

“No. This is perfect, and your planned proposal is perfect. Did you get the champagne that Cooper sent over? I don’t know anything about champagne, but a friend of Cooper’s is a self-proclaimed wine expert and said it was really good.” 

“I got the champagne. I ordered food from the Italian place in Chicago she liked so well, and all I have to do is pop it in the oven. And then I have the box of things you gave me. Are you sure I need all this?” Willie looked down at the box in his hands. 

“Yes. Dinner by candlelight will be perfect, and you want to have a pretty flower centerpiece to set the mood.” Not that Cooper and I ate often by candlelight at our house, but we had some beautiful candlesticks and candleholders for making displays at the flower shop. I had made Willie an arrangement with white and red roses. 

“And you’re sure proposing on Valentine’s Day isn’t too cheesy?” 

“For some, maybe, but not Katy. You know she loves Valentine’s Day. Sometimes, I think she likes it more than Christmas. This is going to be an epic proposal, and before you even say it, of course she’s going to say yes.” 

Willie gave a wry smile. “Out of everything about this night, that’s actually the one thing I’m least concerned about. I just want to make it perfect for her.” 

“Honestly, you could propose in the middle of the grocery store, and she would be thrilled. This will really be an evening to remember for her. Now, get going. You have a lot to get set up before tonight.” 

I watched him go and couldn’t stop smiling. Katy was going to love tonight and the effort Willie had put into the proposal. I was so happy for my friends. It was going to be hard to wait for her to call and tell me the good news. 

* * *

The rest of the day went agonizingly slow, the way things do when you’re waiting in anticipation. Luckily, since it was Valentine’s Day, the shop was swamped, and I liked being busy. It made time go fast. 

“Did you see those bouquets you made with the pink and white roses? They are totally sold out,” Wendy, my most trusted employee, said. 

“I know. The white and yellow ones are also almost sold out. Not that I don’t love traditional red roses on Valentine’s Day. There’s nothing wrong with the classics. I just know that not all women want that, and I thought if we had things made up, it would be easier for the guys to choose. The one thing I’ve learned so far in this business is that it doesn’t matter whether it’s a bride trying to pick out wedding flowers or just a gentleman coming in today; it’s sometimes hard to envision what you want, but when you have different things to look at, it’s much easier to figure it out.” 

“Very true. Maybe next year, we try other colors. We did those dyed turquoise roses last summer. They sold really well.” 

“That’s a great idea. Listen, if you want to get out early, go ahead. Since I don’t have Bella and Topknot with me today, I thought I would stay a little bit later and mark down what was ready for tomorrow morning.” 

“Are you sure? The place is pretty messy from the rush.” 

“I’m sure. Cooper said he wasn’t working late tonight, so the animals are fine. And plus, I need something to distract me while waiting for Katy to call to tell me about the engagement.” 

“Yeah, I wish we had a way to secretly watch. It’s going to be so romantic. Well, thanks for letting me leave early. Chad is taking me out.” 

“That’s awesome! Have fun,” I said while Wendy walked to the back to hang up her apron. 

Chad was a new guy she had been dating. After the untimely demise of her previous boyfriend, I was glad Wendy was putting herself back out there. She deserved to be happy. 

Once I locked the front door and turned the open sign to “Closed,” I gave Cooper a quick call to check in on Bella, our English mastiff, and Topknot, our duck. When people heard I had a pet duck, they thought it strange, and hey, I had to admit it was, if you didn’t know him. But he had become part of the family, and he and Bella were best friends. 

I hung up the phone and made my way through the flower shop. Wendy had been right. It was a lot messier than usual, but that was a sign of a busy day. I straightened everything up, got price stickers and signs from the back, and started marking everything down. 

My cell phone rang, and I fished it out of my pocket. It was Katy, but it was only 6:30. Had Willie already proposed? His plan was to have a romantic dinner and pop the question before dessert and champagne. Though, maybe he had decided he couldn’t wait and did it before dinner? I couldn’t blame him for that. 

“Hey, Katy. What’s going on?” I tried to keep my voice neutral, just on the off chance he had not proposed yet and this call was about something else. 

“Did you talk to Willie today?” 

“Briefly. Why?” 

“He told me to meet him at his house at six when I got off work, and he’s not here.” 

“What do you mean, he’s not there?” 

“Exactly what I said. He’s not here, but his car is, and the house was unlocked when I got here. The table is set—beautifully, I might add—with taper candles and a floral centerpiece that has your name all over it, but he’s not here. The candles were lit when I came in, and at first, I thought maybe he had to run to get something really quick and thought he would be back before I got here. But now he’s half an hour late, and he’s not answering his phone.” 

A feeling of dread washed over me. The only way Willie would not have been at his house right then was if something had happened to prevent him from being there. He also would never have not told Katy if something had pulled him away, so I was having a hard time trying to keep my mind from going to the worst-case scenario, like he’d had an accident and couldn’t call or something. But I definitely didn’t want to say that to Katy and make her worry. It seemed like her mind was already there. 

“What if something happened to him?” she asked. “What if he ran out to get something and got in a car accident?” 

“Listen, I’ll be right there. I’ll call Cooper and ask him to call around and see if anyone has seen him.” By anyone, I meant the police or the local hospital, but again, I wasn’t in a position to say that. 

“Thank you.” 

We hung up. I tried calling Willie, but just like when Katy had called, he didn’t answer. After grabbing my coat from the back, I dialed Cooper while I locked the door and headed to my car. 

“Are you on your way home?” he asked. 

“No, I’m heading to Willie’s. He didn’t show up for dinner with Katy. Can you call around?” 

“Absolutely. I’ll call you right back.” 

I didn’t even have to tell Cooper who I wanted him to call. He also knew this wasn’t like Willie. Willie was either hurt somewhere or missing, and neither idea made me feel good.

“Thank you for stopping in Paw Paws. I hope Princess likes her new collar and the blueberry scones,” I said to the customer and her Frenchie, whom I had just rung up. 

I grinned as another customer came in. Paw Paw’s Pet Bakery had gotten off to a rough start, but in the months the bakery had been open, things had gotten better and better. My dream business was a reality.

My name is Myrtle Moore, but everyone calls me Tillie. Myrtle was my grandmother's name and while I loved the family connection, I had quickly created a nickname in fifth grade when the mean girl of the class started calling me Myrtle the Turtle. Luckily, my parents had understood, and I got my revenge later that year when the same mean girl finally got caught being mean and was suspended from school for a week.

I moved to Sweet Haven, Michigan, from Alabama after my divorce. I didn’t care to see my ex-husband of twenty-five years flaunting his new hussy around town. My kids were in college at University of Michigan, and my favorite aunt had died, leaving me her house in Sweet Haven. It didn’t take much for me to decide to move into my aunt’s house and take my divorce settlement to open a bakery catering to pets. It had been my dream for years, and as a woman of a certain age, it was an amazing feeling seeing my dream come true.

Sweet Haven expanded in size during the summer months due to tourists. It was a quiet little town on Lake Michigan, which was a bustling destination from May through September for families who flocked to the beach to enjoy vacation. I opened the bakery in the fall last year and now was entering my first full tourist season. Business had exceeded my expectations thus far and I couldn’t wait to see what summer would bring. I felt a weight leaning against my leg, pushing me out of my thoughts. Looking down, I saw Daisy, my St. Bernard.

“Hey, girl.” I reached over and scratched her behind the ears. Daisy promptly slid to the floor and rolled over for a belly rub. I obliged and wondered where Beans, my miniature Vietnamese pet pig, was. He and Daisy usually came to work with me. I liked having them with me and as I was currently the only employee, I worked every day from open to close and I would feel so guilty if I left them at home all day.

They had beds behind the counter, and I assumed Beans was still sleeping, which was what Daisy had been doing until just a minute ago. Beans had a sixth sense about anyone getting attention but him, and I saw him come around the corner and waddle his way over to me, immediately nosing my hand with his snout as if to say, “Pet me now.”

“You two are attention-mongers,” I said, laughing. Though I wouldn’t trade them for anything. The bell on the front door chimed and I looked up to see my friend Hilary walk in. She owned the local coffee shop, The Sweet Haven Beanery, and had been my first friend in Sweet Haven. Well, the first of three friends, along with Georgina and Chelsea. They had come over to meet me and had quickly enveloped me into their friend group after an unfortunate incident that had brought the police to my door.

“Hey, I wasn’t expecting you to pop in. What’s going on?” I stood up and immediately Beans and Daisy ran over to Hilary, demanding attention, as if they hadn’t already got it from me.

Hilary didn’t respond right away, her priority being the animals, but that was okay in my book. Finally, she looked up at me. “No special reason. Just out running errands and thought I’d stop in and say hi before heading back to the coffee shop. I’m not in a rush since it’s our mid-afternoon lull.”

“I’m glad you did. How is that new girl you hired working out? Lisa? Wasn’t that her name?”

Hilary nodded. “Yes, it’s Lisa, and she’s doing great. She’s really picked things up fast, and that’s important since over the month of May we will see a steady increase in business that will then be crazy starting Memorial weekend.”

“I’ve been thinking about that. I admit working seven days a week is starting to wear me down. I’m not as young as I used to be.” I chuckled. Though I was happy my work schedule had helped me lose a few pounds. Working so much had cut into my mindless eating because I was bored. I definitely wasn’t bored these days and only ate what I brought to work.

“You should. I think you’re crazy working open to close every day, but I understand why. It’s just going to get harder when your traffic picks up. You need to hire someone for a few days a week to help you during your busy time of day, but also allow you a day off once in a while or at least to leave earlier or come in later. Besides, what happens if you get sick or something?”

“I’ve thought about that. I need to have a backup plan.”

“There’s a job board at the Methodist church and also one at the gas station.”

“The gas station?” I questioned.

“It makes sense if you think about it. Everyone needs to go there, and even if they don’t need a job or have a job to offer, the board gets a lot of eyes on it and word of mouth takes care of the rest.”

“You’re right. Thanks. I’ll check it out.”

“Of course.” She leaned over to pet Beans and Daisy again. “I better get back. I have some cupcakes I need to frost.”

“Speaking of cupcakes, any word on what’s going to happen with The Muffin Tin?” The Muffin Tin was a bakery that had been closed since last fall.

“I heard someone bought it, but that’s just gossip.”

“I hope that gossip is true.”

“Me too. I’d like to get back to just making scones, biscotti, and dessert bars. I’ve just felt guilty since the place closed and there is nowhere in town to get a good muffin or cupcake. The ones they sell at the grocery store are always dry. Anyway, I’ll talk to you later.”

“Bye, Hilary. Thanks for stopping by.”

Hilary walked out as a couple of customers walked in and it stayed that way for the remainder of the day. That had been fairly typical the last few months. Not crazy busy, but slow and steady, which I liked. It was manageable for me on my own, but Hilary was right. I needed to get some help.

Six o’clock finally rolled around, and after ringing up the last customer, I locked the door and took the cash drawer to the back, Daisy and Beans following me. We went into the office, and I sat down, pulling over my calculator so it was within reach, and started my nightly closing routine. Then I went to the computer and Googled job descriptions for part-time bakery help. Although baking the pet treats was my favorite part, it would be helpful to have someone who could do customer service and bake in a pinch.

I found a couple of examples that gave me a good starting point to go from, as I hadn’t ever written a job description before, and after about an hour, I had what I felt was a good one. I added my contact information to the bottom and then printed off a few copies. The church would be closed right now, but I could swing by the gas station on my way home.

“Are you guys ready to go home?” I said to Daisy and Beans. 

I knew I was. My stomach was starting to growl, and I was sure they were ready for dinner too. It was past our normal dinner time, but I wanted to get the job posted before I chickened out and changed my mind. A few more minutes wouldn’t kill us.

We walked out through the back to where my car was parked. Getting Beans’ ramp from the back of my Jeep, I set it up and he climbed in the back seat where I buckled him in. After putting the ramp back, I opened the passenger door for Daisy, and she jumped in. Both of them were buckled in for safety. I jumped in and did the same. I pulled out of the parking lot and was turning right on Main St. to head home when my phone rang. I rummaged around in my purse until my fingers landed on my phone and pulled it out to see it was Hilary.

“Hi, Hilary. What’s up?”

“Oh, Tillie, come quick,” she said, and I could hear panic in her voice. 

I heard sirens getting closer and wasn’t sure if that was through the phone or not, though the coffee shop was next door to my bakery on the opposite side of The Muffin Tin.

“What’s wrong, Hilary? Where are you?”

“I’m still at the coffee shop. Please, just come.” 

She hung up before I could ask any more questions. I felt a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. “Sorry, guys. We’re going to have to wait a little longer for dinner.” I pulled a U-turn after making sure no cars were coming to head to Sweet Haven Beanery. I turned right down the alley to get to the back entrance of the coffee shop and could already hear police sirens flashing in her parking lot. I hoped Hilary was okay.

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Read Chapter 1 of this cozy mystery.

“I’m so excited,” I said. Missy and I closed early and headed to the square, where the official opening of the Sweet Haven Holiday Jubilee was taking place.

My name’s Tillie Moore. Tillie is short for Myrtle, but as you can imagine, I adopted the nickname pretty quickly in life. I currently reside in Sweet Haven, Michigan, but I spent most of my life in Alabama before catching my scoundrel of a husband cheating. He decided to leave me for someone newer. 

Shortly before that happened, my great-aunt had left me her house and a little bit of money. She also provided for my children’s college education, under the stipulation they attended her alma mater, the University of Michigan. So that was how we all ended up here.

This was my second Christmas living in town. I had only arrived a couple of months before the last one and didn’t know people well then. Now, I felt ingrained in the community and had been looking forward to the Sweet Haven Holiday Jubilee, honestly, since right after the Fourth of July. 

I was a Christmas fanatic and loved the decorations, even the snowy weather. Though, once the holidays were over, I wasn’t a fan of winter in January and February.

“The Jubilee has gone on for as long as I can remember,” Missy said. 

She had lived and grown up in Sweet Haven but had moved away, gotten married, and returned many years later, single. I had hired her a while back, a little nervous about the expense. Being a business owner wasn’t for the faint of heart. But with the encouragement of my friends, I took the plunge, and Missy proved to be a valuable person on my team. She had really helped me grow the business.

“I think it’s exciting. That’s why I didn’t mind closing the bakery for a couple of hours to watch the kickoff of the festivities.” 

When I moved here, I opened a pet bakery. I had always loved to bake but found I preferred to do so for animals rather than people. Not that I didn’t enjoy making meals, and if I did say so myself, my coconut cream and chocolate pies were out of this world. I simply combined my passion for animals with my love of baking. 

Back in Alabama, when my kids were younger, I had baked treats for all the pets. They were always a hit and even won a couple of prizes at fairs. After the kids reached high school age, I set up a little business trying to actively sell my goods, something my now ex-husband always made fun of. 

I got divorced and moved to Michigan, but the little bit of money my great-aunt left me and my divorce settlement wouldn’t last forever. Plus, I wasn’t one to just sit around, so I decided to bite the bullet and open the bakery. The rest, as they say, was history. 

I wasn’t making a ton of money, but since my great-aunt had left me the house free and clear and I owned my Jeep outright, my expenses were mainly utilities and food, though my animals ate far more than I did.

“You made the right call closing. I don’t think you would’ve had any customers. All the locals and any tourists in town are going to be just as excited to see the jubilee as the rest of us. As long as we’re back after the celebratory hot chocolate toast, we won’t miss anything.”

I agreed with Missy. Sweet Haven, which was located on the Michigan shoreline, was very much a tourist attraction. The small, sleepy town with an actual population of about 10,000 would swell to quadruple the size during tourist season, which was Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. 

However, there were quite a few people who had vacation homes here and would stick around. If one liked outdoor activities, there were some good cross-country trails, and then all through the holidays, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve, a lot of events happened on the weekends, such as this one.

It was the Saturday after Thanksgiving—the initial kickoff of the holiday season, starting with Santa giving a holiday toast over hot chocolate. The Boy Scouts were in charge of making the beverages, which was one of their yearly fundraisers. For a donation, one would get to sip hot chocolate, listen to Santa make a toast, and then either enjoy all the festivities or go about their merry way.

“I just hope the Boy Scouts don’t run out. I heard last year they did, and it caused quite a commotion.”

Missy laughed. “Nothing upsets this town like messing with its traditions, intentional or not.”

“I see people are bringing their pets,” I noted when we approached the town square. There were more than a few dogs on leashes.

“I wish we could bring Daisy, Beans, and Mr. Cuddles.”

“I know. Honestly, I feel guilty for leaving them behind. They would love the attention they’d get here, but we wouldn’t have enough hands to hold them and our hot chocolate. And you know how rambunctious they would be with all these people around.”

Beans, my pig, was well-trained and minded most of the time, but I understood where the phrase “pigheaded” came from. He could be very obstinate when he put his mind to it. Daisy, my St. Bernard, and Mr. Cuddles, my Cane Corso, were very obedient. 

Like I had just said to Missy, their size, combined with the fact there were three of them and only two of us, would have made it hard to handle them along with our hot chocolate. I would definitely bring them back another time, though. They loved being around people, and while some were sometimes put off by their size, most, once they got to know the animals, loved them.

We walked up to the hot chocolate stands, where there was a long line. That was no great surprise, given the huge turnout. The Boy Scouts were working as fast as they could, and they were doing an efficient job. It didn’t take long for us to get up to the counter.

“We have milk chocolate hot chocolate, dark chocolate hot chocolate, hazelnut chocolate, and white chocolate,” one of the Boy Scouts said. He had to have been around ten or eleven, with a cute smattering of freckles across his nose, which was red from the cold.

“I think I’ll take the hazelnut,” I said.

“Me too,” Missy agreed.

“Whipped cream or no whipped cream?” the boy asked.

“What would you recommend?” I said in a very serious tone.

“I would recommend extra whipped cream. And if you don’t mind me being bold, I would also recommend chocolate sprinkles.”

The boy was so earnest it was hard not to laugh. He was taking his job seriously, and he was so adorable. I remembered when my kids were his age. They were in school now, and I missed them. Both were studious, which I loved, but they were going home to Alabama this year. While I never wanted them to not have a good relationship with their father, I selfishly was glad to have them all to myself for a couple of weeks.

“I think we should definitely get whipped cream and sprinkles, don’t you think?” Missy’s expression was earnest, though her tone was playful.

“Absolutely,” I said, handing over my credit card and waving away Missy’s objections as she reached for hers.

“Company outing. What’s the point of business expenses if we don’t use them?” I said with a grin.

“Thank you.” The boy placed our drinks on the counter and handed me back my card. He then gave us each a little spoon.

“This is vacation. You don’t want to eat your whipped cream and get messy,” he said solemnly.

“Good,” I replied as he walked away. “The stage is that way. I believe that’s where Santa will make his grand entrance. Should we head in that direction?” I asked Missy.

“Sure, but if I see something tempting to eat, stop me. I’m not hungry right now, but I swear this is the first Christmas season where I don’t gain weight.”

“Oh, please. You look just fine. But I’ll be glad if you help me out by doing the same for me. I’m a sucker for fair food. And even though this isn’t a fair, based on the smells already in the air, I can tell they have some of my favorites.”

“On second thought, I don’t know how long I’ll be able to go without grabbing sugar donuts and hot apple cider from Shepherd Farms. Nobody grows apples like those folks.” 

“Maybe we can split donuts,” I suggested. 

Missy nodded. “Good plan.”

We walked to the other end of the town square, where the stage was, choosing to stand on the outside of the crowd rather than taking a seat in one of the chairs they had set out for the occasion. It wasn’t really cold—still only in the forties—and the sun was out. 

Missy and I both thought it was better to keep moving, so we decided to walk around until the event started. I glanced at my watch. Santa was going to appear in about five minutes. I couldn’t believe how many people were here.

It was nice there was such a crowd. Maybe after the event, they would go shopping downtown and spend some money. Since the end of October, business had really slowed down unexpectedly. I had hoped it would stay a little busier.

“Five minutes till Santa kicks us off,” a man’s voice boomed over the loudspeaker. It wasn’t one I recognized, but it got the message across.

“I’m going to run to the restroom really quick and get back before it starts,” Missy said.

“Good. Just hurry. I heard the opening song is the best part.” 

Missy nodded and headed off in the direction of the bathrooms.

The seconds ticked by. A nervous energy electrified the crowd, which was exciting. I had spent most of my adult life in a town that wasn’t nearly as lively. Even though this community had been around for a long time, it still seemed full of life, and I appreciated that.

I felt a little anxious and hoped Missy would get back in time, but I forced myself not to dwell on it. She was grown, and she still had a couple of minutes before the start.

Just as the thought went through my mind, what I assumed was the master of ceremonies stepped up to speak.

“Friends and family. Though, as mayor of this town, I consider you all family. And I’m so glad you’re here to celebrate the kickoff of Sweet Haven’s holiday season. Please join me in a round of applause for Sweet Haven traditions. Now, without further ado, I’d like to announce our brand-new Santa for this year. He’s going to say a few words, and then we will make our toast. Santa, come on out.”

Everyone looked expectantly at the stage, wondering if Santa would appear from the left or right. A few seconds went by, but there was no answer and no sign of anyone in the wings.

“Maybe he didn’t hear me. He’s probably busy checking his list,” the mayor said in an attempt at humor. “It’s time to come on out!” he called again. “Your fans are waiting.”

Just then, a young woman, probably in her mid-twenties, ran onto the stage. 

“Something’s happened to Santa,” she explained breathlessly. “He might be dead.”

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Sometimes it's the little things that are exciting. Obviously, dogs can be dirty and smelly even though I would never tell them that and they do get groomed often.

​Since they are family, we let them on the couches and when the lazy bums are snoozing on the couches all day the couch cushions get smelly. Anyone who has taken the covers off their couch cushions and washed them know that putting them back on is like wrestling an alligator. It's the hardest thing ever.

​I used to cover the couches with blankets, but the dogs made it their mission to see how quickly they could pull them off.

​So, I decided to try cushion covers so they would be easier to wash even if they weren't as attractive. It's been a game changer though the cheap ones on Amazon aren't that good of quality and the dogs’ nails easily poke holes in them so I'm on a search for better quality that won't break the bank.

But it's so much easier to take them off and wash them and put them back on I don’t care if there are a few holes because when someone comes over, I can take them off and voile clean couches.

On to writing news…

I just finished writing book 10 in the Petal Pushers Flower Shop Cozy mystery series, Irises and Indictments, and once I go back through it one more time it will go to the editor.

Now I am Working on a cozy novella that will be part of an anthology. I'm a little behind but that's ok. I usually am🤣

Are we already 10 days into January? I know I say this a lot but time sure flies.

First a funny story. At least I think it's funny. I tried a new shampoo, and it didn't lather up. I found this odd and after a couple turns trying it, I asked my husband if we needed salt for the water softener. He said no and a few more washings went by, and it didn't lather, and I kept complaining to my husband about how weird it was. Then he got the bottle and read it. It's non lather shampoo🤣🤣

I felt dumb and it's a really weird experience not to have it lather. The conditioner is great and it's for curly hair and so far, I think it's working well. Now that I'm getting used to the no lather.

I'm taking Sydney back to school later today. She didn't fly this time due to her shoulder surgery. I didn't want to send her to the airport with a connecting flight, a bag, a backpack, and one working arm. But I don't mind. I like our road trips.

I've always been a big goal setter but the last few years the idea of achieving goals has lasted maybe a week. I can trace it back to 2018 and after much reflection I think that my inability to focus (or care enough) on my goals coincided with perimenopause. Hormones, they can do a number on you. I also tend to be a person who wants to do it all and I used to do pretty good at it but not any more.

I realized that trying to take on too much set me up for failure so this year I did set goals, but my focus is on planning my weeks with the actions to get to those goals and to live in the moment. Not beat myself up for not losing 20lbs in a week (exaggerated example but you know what I mean).

I'm off to a good start and it's given me confidence that I can stay the course.

On to writing news.....

For cozy readers.

​I will be taking the original Presley series and the Petal Pusher series off KU and putting them

on all retailers by the end of January. This is purely a business decision. I know many of you are KU readers (I am too) so I’m trying to think of ways to accommodate that. Maybe with coupons from my store or Patreon. I’m still trying to figure that out.

This decision is in large part due to the fear of having all my eggs in one basket to use a cliche. I had an issue with Amazon banning one of my romance books last year through no fault of my own and not only did it impact my income, but it scared me that it could happen again.

For romance readers.

I started a new book/series which is a spin off to the Gallagher brother’s series using the same world, Cottontail Junction. I need you to weigh in on a title. Please respond in the comments.

​I’m also going to focus more on audio and paperbacks. Only about 25% of my books have those formats so it's about time I caught up.

Thanks for listening and have a great day!

Laina

Chapter 1

Judge walked into the kitchen at his normal early hour of six a.m. having already showered and dressed in jeans, his work boots, and a T-shirt. Summer made the day warm already. Once the sun was completely overhead, it was bound to be another scorcher, but he didn’t mind. In fact, he enjoyed working outside on the ranch even more than he had expected when he’d moved here back in April.

Judge pressed the brew button on the coffee pot that he had set up the evening before with coffee and a filter. He opened the refrigerator to grab a carton of eggs, a package of bacon, and cream cheese. Judge made quick work of beating the eggs then set the butter and a chunk of cream cheese in the pan to melt before pouring in the eggs. 

Cooking the bacon in the microwave was the easy way out and arguably not as good since the bacon didn’t crisp up as well, but it was faster and less messy than cooking it in a skillet, so that was the method he’d chosen. He’d leave the gourmet cooking to Colette’s sister, Miriam.

Returning to the stovetop, he stirred the eggs around a few times before setting the spatula down on the spoon holder. He walked over to the pantry, grabbed a loaf of bread, and set it by the toaster. He knew Brock and Lucky would be down any minute. Brock because he was an early riser like Judge, and Lucky because he liked food.

Judge had to grudgingly admit that Lucky had been much more helpful around the ranch than he had expected. Lucky was a restless soul and never spent much time in one place, which was the complete opposite of Judge’s personality. He had spent time in the marines and then he had spent time as a cop, preferring everything to have organized order in all areas of his life. Lucky had seemed to take to ranch life and Judge hoped that maybe he had found his calling.

He went back over to the stove and stirred the eggs again, so they didn’t stick to the pan. Knowing he only had a few seconds before they were ready, he grabbed a paper plate and paper towel to lay strips of bacon then popped them in the microwave and set the timer. 

After less than a minute, the smell of cooking bacon permeated the air and Judge’s stomach growled. Footsteps sounded in the hallway toward the kitchen and soon Brock arrived, nodding at Judge as he walked in. He grabbed a cup and stuck it underneath the coffee maker to catch the coffee dripping out while he took the pot and filled another cup of coffee.

“Every morning you do that, and it dirties another cup. Do you think you could wait just a few minutes until the coffee is actually done?” Judge said to his brother, shaking his head. He couldn’t grumble too much. Brock did his fair share of the dishes. It just was a waste of a clean cup in Judge’s eyes.

“Oh, I’m sure I could, but then it wouldn’t get under your skin, and what fun would that be?” Brock said good-naturedly. He walked around Judge to the other side of the island and sat on a stool, nursing his coffee. “You look exhausted.”

Brock rubbed his hand over his face. “I am. I got a call about two a.m. Someone’s dog got tangled up with either a pack of wild dogs or maybe a wolf or a coyote and needed a fair number of stitches.”

“Oh no. Is he going to be okay?”

“Yeah, he’ll be fine.”

“Why did they call you?” 

Brock was the large animal vet in town, but there was another vet, from the next town over, who typically dealt with domesticated cats and dogs. “Unfortunately, Dr. Younger was already out on call, so he couldn’t get to the dog in a timely manner. He was bleeding pretty bad. So, he called me. I’d forgotten how much more emotionally attached owners are to their pets versus ranchers and farmers to livestock.”

“It’s good that you were available to help out,” Judge said as he took the eggs off the stove.

“I agree. I enjoyed treating a dog for a change. Made me think it’s a sign we need to get a dog here.”

“We’re getting a dog? I think that’s a great idea,” Lucky said as he walked in. 

Judge saw a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. Lucky had turned into a hopeless romantic since moving to Painted Acres Ranch when Brock began seeing Colette. Perhaps that was why Lucky had moved around so much. When he started to care about something or someone too much, he felt he needed to move on both in location and in spirit.

“I was just telling Judge here how I treated a dog last night and you know, a farm does need a dog.” He offered his steaming mug as if giving a toast.

“Yeah, you’re right. And now that we have those cattle, what’s one more mouth to feed?” Judge joked. 

The cattle Judge purchased shortly after they moved here had proven to be a lot more work and money than Judge had ever anticipated. But then, having never owned cattle before, it wasn’t surprising that he had misjudged how much work they would be.

“What I would agree with is that a dog is definitely what we need in this place,” Brock said. 

Judge walked over to the toaster and put the bread in. He spooned the scrambled eggs into a bowl and grabbed the bacon from the microwave, heading over to a little table in the corner of the kitchen that they had most of their meals in. The formal dining room was just that—too formal for quick meals.

“You guys go ahead, and I’ll grab the toast,” Judge said and turned, smelling something burning. He glanced at the toaster as smoke billowed from the top.

“I like my toast with a good crunch, but that’s a little excessive,” Brock said.

“It’s not my cooking. It’s the stupid toaster. I have it on the lowest setting, and it still burns every time. It wasn’t even in there a full minute.”

Judge grabbed the charred pieces and tossed them in the trash, put fresh slices in, and pressed the lever, this time not taking his eyes off it.

“Maybe you’re just a bad cook,” Lucky said.

Judge scowled at each of them in turn. “Feel free to cook your own breakfast then.” 

“Never mind. I love your burnt toast, brother,” Lucky said.

Even though his back was to his brothers, he could imagine their expressions. He just smiled and then leaned over to peer in the toaster, hitting the lever so it popped up and deeming the bread toasted enough. He did that a couple more times. Judge could tell Lucky was trying hard to suppress a smile when he finally joined his brothers at the table.

“If you had a good woman like Brock here, she could make the toast. Then you wouldn’t burn it,” Lucky said.

Judge knew Lucky was teasing. He had sworn off relationships years ago, but there were times he envied Brock’s relationship with Colette. The last thing Brock had wanted after his wife had passed away was to think about a relationship with another woman. Even so, Colette had stolen his heart soon after they had arrived in Cottontail Junction, Montana.

That just wasn’t in the cards for him.

Judge’s heart was too closed off to find a woman like that. Life had made him jaded and now he had no time or inclination for love. Women were nothing but trouble.

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Hijinks and Holly

The holiday season is in full swing in Sweet Haven, and Tillie Moore is busy whipping up festive treats at her beloved Paw Paws Bakery. But when the town's jolly Santa, Ed Parsons, turns up dead, Christmas cheer is quickly overshadowed by mystery and suspicion. Tillie can’t resist getting involved—especially when she discovers that Ed was once married to her employee and friend, Missy. 

Determined to uncover the truth behind Ed’s untimely demise, Tillie digs into the past, where secrets and scandals threaten to unravel the town's tight-knit community. Between juggling her holiday baking, dealing with quirky townsfolk, and keeping her mischievous dog out of trouble, Tillie must race against time to catch a killer before another body turns up under the tree.

Will Tillie solve the case, or will this be one mystery that wraps up Christmas in a deadly bow?

Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries with a festive twist!

Pre-Order Now. Releases 1/31/25

'Tis the season... for murder?

In this cozy mystery, Presley Thurman and Cooper Sands (and Bella, too!) have returned to Hunter's Hollow just in time for their Christmas Eve wedding. But when Winston Rose is murdered in the parking lot of Sue Thurman's flower shop, the police peg Sue as their number one suspect.

Presley knows her mom is innocent but can she convince the police of that?

Presley and Cooper think maybe it's best they cancel their wedding and focus on Sue's legal troubles, but she won't hear of it. She wants her daughter married on December 24, even if the mother-of-the-bride is in jail.

Can Presley find the real culprit AND get married to Cooper? This just might take a Christmas miracle.

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Small Town Magic Clean, Small Town Romance

Haley Holmes loves animals and loves her job at Moonshire Bay’s local pet store. Someday she plans to buy the store when the current owner retires. She just didn’t expect that someday to be now, right before Christmas. She just doesn’t have that kind of money.

Max Burns is restoring the old lighthouse in town while he’s on sabbatical from his job in Detroit. When his Labrador retriever, Wendy, goes missing he’s wowed by the beautiful woman that returns his dog. But is she wowed by him?

The countdown to Christmas is on and it’s going to take a whole lot of small town magic to get these two together and save them from a deadbeat ex, a meddling son, and a holiday.

Luckily, Moonshire Bay is the perfect place to be during the holiday season.