Showing posts with label book blog tour. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book blog tour. Show all posts

Book Blog Tour and Book Giveaway for "Double-Dip Demise" and Author Interview with Elizabeth Maria Naranjo

Monday, November 09, 2026

Book Blog Tour For 

Double-Dip Demise: A Sweet Dreams Mystery 

(Sweet Dreams Mysteries Book3) 


About the Book:

Christmas is around the corner, and Genevieve Winterland is taking a break from slinging scoops at Sweet Dreams Ice Cream Parlour to enjoy Pinewood’s Winter Spectacular. She can’t wait to sip cocoa on the snowy downtown streets and watch the tree lighting ceremony with BFF, BrandonSummers, and her dog, Butterscotch. 

But Genevieve’s Christmas cheer begins to melt when an unwelcome visitor comes to town. Harlan Freed is the cantankerous owner of Cheezie’s Pizza, a chain of fast-food restaurants. His ambition to open one of his low-quality pie joints on Main Street threatens to put beloved staple Bradshaw’s Pizzeria out of business. Following a heated public argument with Mr. Bradshaw that nearly comes to blows, the bullish Freed turns up dead–strangled with a string of Christmas lights. 

Genevieve feels compelled to investigate; after all, the body was discovered behind her family’s shop. But her history of amateur sleuthing has her on this ice with Detective Christie. Can she stay off the detective’s Naughty List and solve the crime before the trail goes cold? 

Product details‎:
Publication date : ‎ July 15, 2026 
Print length ‏  ‎ 248 pages 
ISBN-13 ‏: ‎ 979-8181154568 
ASIN: B0H85TXVK7 
Dimensions: ‎ 4.12 x 0.59 x 6.75 inches 
Book 3 of 3‏: ‎ Sweet Dreams Mysteries 

Double-Dip Demise is available on Amazon. Add it to your list on Goodreads.


About the Author:

Elizabeth Maria Naranjo is the author of The Fourth Wall, The House on Linden Way, and the Sweet Dreams series. Her work has been published in Brevity Magazine, Superstition Review, Reservoir Road, Fractured Lit, Literary Mama, Hospital Drive, The Portland Review, and a few other places. Her stories have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, Best American Essay, and Best of the Net, and her short story "Windows" was selected for Best Microfiction 2023. 

Elizabeth can be found at http://www.elizabethmarianaranjo.com/. 

You can also connect with Elizabeth on her social networks: 

Author Interview with Crystal J. Casavant-Otto

Welcome Elizabeth! We should probably explain to readers that we've known each other through several books and many years! 

Dear readers - grab a cup of your favorite beverage and settle in for a delightful interview between friends - you'll gain some exciting insight into the life of our beloved Elizabeth, so get comfy!

WOW: We've already chatted about where you write and feel like this is a fun question that will help our readers get to know you and your life better, so... dear Elizabeth, what Objects Tell the Story of Your Life? 

Elizabeth: Definitely my bookshelves! They reflect so many eras of my life. For example, I have a shelf of favorites from my teens and twenties, everything from Christopher Pike to Ray Bradbury to Barbara Kingsolver. I have a shelf filled with the gothic novels and science fiction and horror anthologies I read when I returned to college in my thirties. Another shelf is stacked with the cozy mysteries I fell in love with in my forties. I have a shelf dedicated to Stephen King, whose stories have followed me from childhood, and I have shelves of the books that imprinted on my heart, like Watership Down, The English Patient, Wuthering Heights, and The Last Unicorn. 



WOW: These questions are so much fun - thanks for giving us such an intimate glimpse into your life. Now that we know about your bookshelves and reading preferences, it seems only natural to find out about music. Spill it: What Music Inspires You and Why? 

Elizabeth: This question reminds me of our very first interview, in 2014! You asked me to choose a song to go along with my debut novel, and I answered with Iron Maiden’s “Infinite Dreams,” a gorgeous song from one of my favorite albums of all time, and one that fit so perfectly with my book about lucid dreaming. Heavy metal has always been one of my biggest inspirations because it encompasses all the genres of stories I love—fantasy, folklore, science fiction, horror, historical fiction, literary fiction, and poetry. 

WOW: I remember that interview - I can't believe we've been friends for over a decade already! That means we worked together during the years when I went from being a mother of 3 to a mother of 4, then 5, then 6! So many moments we've shared! That begs the question: What Are Some Recent Moments of Happiness in Your Life? 

Elizabeth: The whole month of October was full of great moments. Over fall break my daughter and I binge-watched the Strike series on HBO and spent hours just chatting about books. She moved out in March so it was nice to spend some quality time with her. Then my husband and I visited our son in Flagstaff, where he’s a sophomore at NAU. Getting to hug him and listen to his stories of campus life always makes me happy. Finally, it rained for two weeks straight—perfect weather for staying home and catching up on reading! 

WOW: The story of hugging your adult son resonates with me deeply - half of my children are adults now and when they come home I have all the happy feelings! Adult children bring happiness but it's an entirely new set of challenges, isn't it? Speaking of which, What Challenges Have You Set for Yourself? 

Elizabeth: This year I set several challenges for myself, including publishing my third cozy mystery novel and completing my master’s degree in education. After several months of intensive book edits and almost a year of weekly research papers, I completed both projects by the end of September. I then spent almost every October evening reading for hours on my porch, which helped me wrap up my third challenge of reading 25 books this year! I’m in celebratory mode now, simply enjoying things like this blog tour, the upcoming holidays, and maybe a wintry vacation at Disneyland. 

WOW: I love that we are both going to school for education - we were definitely meant to be friends! I'm very impressed with your time management - the only reason I hit my reading goal was because one of my classes was about teaching reading...otherwise I struggle with juggling reading for fun with my studying. Congratulations on juggling reading, writing, school, and real life! You never cease to amaze me! 

What is Your Favorite Place in Your House and Why? 

Elizabeth: My favorite place in my house is my dining room. It’s small and cozy with a red-brick fireplace and French doors that look out onto the backyard where my children grew up playing. I’ve lived in my home for over twenty years now, and there’s so much history living there with me, all those memories of shared family time, and also time alone, sitting at the dining room table and writing stories.
 

WOW: Oh dear Elizabeth, in the words of my beloved T.S. Elliot "And to make an end is to make a beginning" our time is coming to an end and yet this is just the beginning of something new, isn't it? There's a new year just around the corner and I have a feeling we will see one another in this same setting in the new year, won't we? Shall we let it be a cozy mystery for our readers, or would you like to give them a glimpse into this beginning that is forthcoming? 

Elizabeth: Crystal, you know me so well! It is always the beginning of something new. I've had an idea simmering for nearly a year, just waiting for its time. I can't say much about the project right now, but it is not another cozy mystery. This next one's going to be more like my first three books—lyrical and melancholy, atmospheric and introspective. I can't wait to begin. 


WOW: I just knew it! So - until we meet again dear friend; here's to all the words, the many pages, and the delicious ideas we've shared before and will share in the future! It's such an honor to be part of your stories!

Double-Dip Demise Blog Tour

Blog Tour Dates: 

November 9th @ The Muffin 
Join us at the Muffin as we celebrate the launch of Double-Dip Demise by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. Crystal from WOW! will interview Elizabeth as readers will have a chance to win a copy of this cozy mystery just in time for Christmas! 


November 11th @ Finished Pages 
Author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo is busy touring with her latest book Double-Dip Demise, but she takes time to pen today’s guest post with long time fan and friend Renee at Finished Pages. Don’t miss this fabulous post titled: "Sweet Escape: Living Vicariously Through Your Fiction" and a chance to learn more about Naranjo’s latest sweet mystery! 

November 12th @ Sue Bradford Edwards 
Readers at Sue Bradford Edwards’ blog get a chance to hear from Sue as she reviews Double-Dip Demise, the latest sweet mystery from fellow author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. This book is Sweet Dreams Mysteries Book #3 but many have enjoyed it as a stand alone. Let’s see what Sue has to say about it today! 

November 13th @ Chapter Break 
Julie at Chapter Break hosts guest author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo today. Join Naranjo for a post titled: "The Importance of Platonic Friendships in YA Fiction" and find out more about Double-Dip Demise, Book #3 of Sweet Dreams Mysteries! This is the perfect time of year for this cozy mystery! http://chapterbreak.net 

November 17th @ Nikki’s Book and Movie Reviews 
Nicole Harmon shares her thoughts with readers at Nikki’s Book and Movie Reviews. See what Nicole has to say about Elizabeth Maria Naranjo’s latest cozy mystery Double-Dip Demise and learn more about The Sweet Dreams Mystery Series! 

November 18th @ Finished Pages with Renee 
Renee was pretty excited to find out one of her favorite authors had released book #3 of her Sweet Dreams Mystery Series - find out Renee’s thoughts as she reviews Double-Dip Demise by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo! 

November 19th @ Boys’ Mom Reads! 
Karen C. Siddall reviews Double-Dip Demise by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo! This is book #3 of the Sweet Dreams Mystery Series but readers are enjoying it just as much as a standalone - let’s see what Karen has to say! 

November 30th @ A Wonderful World of Words 
Joy Giachino shares her review of Double-Dip Demise written by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. Learn more about this cozy mystery and check out Joy’s review today at A Wonderful World of Words! 

December 2nd @ Lisa’s Reading 
Elizabeth Maria Naranjo is in today’s author spotlight at Lisa’s Reading with Double-Dip Demise; Book #3 of the Sweet Dreams Mysteries Series! Don’t miss a chance to find out more about this series and the latest release! 

December 9th @ Words by Webb 
Jodi Webb shares her thoughts on Double-Dip Demise, the latest release written by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo (book #3 of the Sweet Dreams Mysteries Series)! Don’t miss out on this sweet opportunity! https://www.jodiwebbwriter.com/blog 

December 10th @ Hook of a Book! 
The title of today’s guest post at Hook of a Book is " Writing Standalone Novels Versus Books in a Series". Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo as she takes a break from promoting her latest cozy mystery, Double-Dip Demise to talk about standalone novels and books in a series. 

December 11th @ World of My Imagination 
Nicole Pyles shares her 5 star review of Double-Dip Demise with readers at World of My Imagination! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo and her Sweet Dreams Mysteries books! 

December 12th @ Deirdra Eden’s A Storybook World 
In the spotlight today at A Storybook World is none other than author Elizabeth Maria Nanjo with Book 3 of her Sweet Dreams Mysteries Series titled: Double-Dip Demise! Stop by and learn more about this sweet read! 

December 13th @ Lady Unemployed 
Readers at Lady Unemployed will enjoy today’s guest post penned by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo titled: "Comfort and Joy: Writing for the Holidays". Read more about this topic and find out about Naranjo’s latest release Double-Dip Demise! 

December 14th @ Bring on Lemons 
Crystal Casavant-Otto has been talking up Double-Dip Demise by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo for months! You won’t want to miss an opportunity to read Crystal’s 5 star review of this cozy mystery and you’ll want to get your hands on your own copy before Christmas! 




 ***** BOOK GIVEAWAY *****

Enter to win the YA cozy mystery Double-Dip Demise by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. Fill out the form below for a chance to win. The giveaway ends November 22nd at 11:59 pm CT. We will randomly draw a winner the next day and follow up via email. Good luck!


Double-Dip Demise Giveaway
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Pralines and Creamed - Interview with Elizabeth Maria Naranjo (and Join our Reader Review Event)

Friday, November 22, 2024



Today, I'm thrilled to interview Elizabeth Maria Naranjo about her vibrant and beautifully haunting new book, Pralines and Creamed. This is a lovely new book in her Sweet Dreams Mystery Series and is book 2 of the series. This book is just as delightful as a standalone (although readers are already begging for a book 3). 

We're also inviting readers to participate in our Reader Review event. You can sign up by emailing: crystal@wow-womenonwriting.com and she will get you a copy of the book! You don't need to be a blogger to join in on this event; anyone who can leave a review on Goodreads and Amazon can participate and receive a copy of Pralines and Creamed. By leaving a review, you'll also be entered in a drawing to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

About the book:
It’s the spooky season in Pinewood, Arizona, and when Genevieve Winterland isn’t creating killer new recipes for Sweet Dreams Ice Cream Parlour, she’s helping BFF Brandon Summers prep for the most lit party of the year. Brandon’s parents own Hidden Treasures Bookstore, where famed horror writer Jack Kelley is launching his latest novel on Halloween night. 

Brandon’s dad isn’t thrilled that the arrogant Kelley, who was once sweet on Mrs. Summers, has chosen their store for his big event. Still, there’s no denying the author draws a huge crowd… which makes it hard to narrow down a suspect list when Kelley drops dead onstage—the victim of a shocking murder straight out of his own book. 

Fresh off Pinewood’s last cold case, Genevieve is happy to let the police handle this one. But when frosty Detective Christie zeroes in on Brandon’s dad as her prime suspect, Genevieve decides to take matters into her own hands. Can she get the scoop and solve the mystery haunting her hometown?
 
ASIN: B0D97GM9CJ
ISBN: B0DHHB3HWT
Publication date: October 1, 2024
Print Length: 234 pages
Genre: Young Adult Cozy Mystery
 
Pralines and Creamed; A Sweet Dreams Mystery (Sweet Dreams Mysteries Book 2) is available in print and as an ebook at Amazon. Add it to your Goodreads list.

About the author, Elizabeth Maria Naranjo:

Elizabeth Maria Naranjo

Elizabeth Maria Naranjo is the author of The Fourth Wall, The House on Linden Way, and What Was Never There. Her stories and essays have been widely published and nominated for the Pushcart Prize, Best American Essays, and Best of the Net, and her short story, “Windows,” was selected for Best Microfiction 2023. She lives in Tempe, Arizona, with her husband and two children.

Visit her website at www.elizabethmarianaranjo.com.
Twitter/X: @emarianaranjo

----- Interview by Crystal J. Casavant-Otto

WOW: I'm absolutely giddy to have you back - seriously! Your first three books were standalones; what was different about writing your first sequel, Pralines and Creamed? 

Elizabeth: Great question! Honestly, writing a book is never easy, but you’d think writing books in a series would be easier. I’d already done the hard work of creating the settings and the characters from scratch when I wrote my debut YA cozy mystery, Murder by Milkshake. Now I figured I could just whip up a new murder plot and everything would fall into place around it. 

But what I found when writing Pralines and Creamed was that having an existing foundation made things harder. The issue for me was writing recaps, a skill I’d never had to hone and certainly failed to appreciate in series that I read. It’s much more difficult than it looks! 

For example, in the first few chapters of each Sweet Dreams book I need to describe my main character, Genevieve, her best friend, Brandon, the history of their friendship, the history of their families’ downtown shops, the description of those shops, and so on, as well as giving context to any plot point that’s referenced from the book before. That’s a lot of information! And while it’s fun to write the first time, it becomes cumbersome finding new ways of saying the same thing. Knowing that going into the third book did make it a little bit easier though. I was much better prepared for the challenge! 

WOW: I know I've asked this before and you've already given us some - but do you have anymore tips for writing cozy mysteries?  

Elizabeth: I researched for months before writing my first cozy; it was important to me to honor the cozy community and do justice to the specific genre norms. Two cozy mystery writers were instrumental in helping me learn to craft these cute and quirky books. The first is Elizabeth Spann Craig, who writes the Village Library Mystery series and runs a fantastic blog. From her series of posts on Writing the Cozy Mystery, I learned to write the back cover copy before the book and draft the murderer’s confession, even if it’s never used, to consolidate the clues and help me keep track of them.

Another great tip I learned from Craig is to have each suspect tell one lie and one truth when being interviewed by the amateur sleuth. This is brilliant, because it makes each innocent suspect as suspicious as the guilty one since they’re all hiding something, even if the secret is innocuous. 

The other cozy mystery writer to which I owe a debt of gratitude is Nancy J. Cohen. Cohen writes the Bad Hair Day Mystery series, which you should definitely check out, but she also wrote this how-to book on writing cozies, which includes chapters on world building, heightening suspense, and dealing with that muddy middle. The book is short, succinct, and essential reading for any wannabe cozy mystery writers out there! 

WOW: Speaking of genre norms, one of the cozy mystery rules you’ve mentioned before is needing a theme that centers around the protagonist’s job or hobby. For the Sweet Dreams series, what made you choose ice cream? 

Elizabeth: This is a fun detail! When I first started scribbling down ideas for a YA cozy mystery series, I knew my teenage heroine would be spirited, cheerful, and energetic. I’m naturally drawn to cozy mysteries that take place in bookstores and cafes, but this didn’t fit my main character’s personality. I thought about a 50s diner, or maybe a quirky antique store. But then my daughter, who was 16 at the time, landed her first job, at Baskin Robbins. She always came home smelling like ice cream and waffle cones, and she just looked adorable in her pink uniform hat. So I decided my MC would work in an ice cream shop, and I named it Sweet Dreams. 

WOW: For your last interview we covered your favorite Sweet Dreams character. And now for the more important question… What's your favorite Sweet Dreams dessert? 

Elizabeth: Oh, that’s a tough one. Let’s see… one of Genevieve’s first original creations is the Buttercream Dream layered sundae, and that would probably be my first choice. It’s two scoops of yellow cake batter ice cream with a layer of buttercream frosting between, topped with a generous helping of hot fudge, a swirl of whipped cream sprinkled with chocolate shavings, and a cherry on top of an edible candle. Sounds dreamy, right? Then again, you can never go wrong with a butterscotch malt! 
 
WOW: Oh Elizabeth, we could chat all day but I've got to go get some dessert! It's no wonder why I love your writing; I feel like if you lived next door, we'd be besties! I'm happy to let readers know that you'll be back with yet another tour very soon for book three, _______________________, which means another longer interview! When can we expect book 3?

Elizabeth: I'm so glad you asked! Book three in the Sweet Dreams series will be out by next Christmas, and WOW! readers can expect a giveaway to go with it!

Pralines and Creamed by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo

Join the Reader Review Event!


Readers, if you'd like to receive a copy of Pralines and Creamed by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo for review, please email: crystal@wow-womenonwriting.com. Book reviews need to be posted by December 12, 2024 on Goodreads and Amazon. We'll be sharing all the reviews in a Reader Review Event and Giveaway post here on The Muffin on December 20! Besides receiving the book, you'll also be entered to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

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The House on Linden Way Blog Tour: Interview with Author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo and Book Giveaway!

Monday, September 19, 2022
We are excited to announce the WOW! Women on Writing book blog tour with author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo and her book The House on Linden Way. 

The book is a ghost story with elements of horror and Gothic suspense. A perfect fall season read! Here's a bit more about The House on Linden Way:

While passing through her hometown a decade after she left, Amber Blake impulsively revisits her old house on Linden Way. She only means to stay a moment, to show her three-year-old daughter Bee the place where she grew up. But when the kindly new owners invite them inside, Amber cannot resist.

Soon Bee is missing, the owners have disappeared, and Amber finds herself in a houseful of ghosts. Time takes on new meaning as she loses herself in living memories and a past that does not wish to be forgotten. 

As Amber fights the powerful lure of a childhood she’d long left behind, her tenuous hold on the real world slips further from her grasp. Is it merely nostalgia she’s battling, or something far more menacing? Who haunts the house on Linden Way, and where are they hiding her child? 

Categories: horror, gothic suspense, haunted house, ghost story, magical realism, thriller
ISBN-13: 979-8809149051
ASIN: B0B74ZSXZM
Pages: 178 pages
#thehouseonlindenwaynaranjo

The House on Linden Way is available for purchase as an ebook and in print at Amazon. Add it to your list at Goodreads.

About the Author

Elizabeth Maria Naranjo is the award-winning author of The Fourth Wall (WiDo Publishing, 2014). Her short fiction and creative nonfiction have been published in Brevity Magazine, Superstition Review, Fractured Lit, The Portland Review, Hunger Mountain, Hospital Drive, Reservoir Road, Literary Mama, Motherwell, and a few other places. Her stories have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, Best American Essay, and Best of the Net. All links to Elizabeth's work can be found on her website at elizabethmarianaranjo.com.

Twitter: @emarianaranjo


---- Interview by Crystal Otto


WOW: Welcome, Elizabeth! I've missed you since we originally met with your tour for your novel, The Fourth Wall. We are thankful to have you back. How was The House on Linden Way born? 

Elizabeth: I’ve missed you too, Crystal! I am so happy to be back with Women on Writing for The House on Linden Way blog tour. 

Here’s the story of Linden Way: In the summer of 2017 I was stuck for hours at a Toyota dealership waiting for a car repair, and I began scribbling ideas for a short story. My debut novel had been published three years before, my last one had been written two years before, and I kept trying, and failing, to write another. I’d decided to focus on short stories. That was fine; I liked writing short stories, and anyway I had a great idea for one. It was about a woman who revisits her childhood home and loses her young daughter inside. She tries to look for her but keeps getting pulled into memories. It would be like a haunted house story, but infused with elements of nostalgia and melancholy instead of straight-up horror. 

Long story short (heh), the story became a book. Not only that, it became the book of my heart. I pursued traditional publishing for a while, but Linden Way was too short, it wasn’t in first person, no one knew how to sell it, and on and on. I eventually decided to publish it myself, and here we are!

WOW: What an inspiring journey, and I just love it when a short story begs to become a book! Your book's premise is fascinating and I honestly had so many emotions while reading it - I felt like I was experiencing these events! (you are SO talented) -  Are there bits of personal truth written into The House on Linden Way? Where did your characters come from and how did you develop them so incredibly intimately?

Elizabeth: There are bits of personal truths written into most of my fiction. What’s true in Linden Way is my enduring enchantment with my childhood home, which really is on a street called Linden Way in my hometown of Cheyenne, Wyoming. The house retains a mystical quality to me because when I was thirteen I had to leave it, something I have no memory of. When I was twenty I left Cheyenne altogether, and I’ve only returned once, when my daughter was three years old. Like the first chapter in the book, I visited my childhood home and asked the owners to take a picture of my daughter and I in front of the house. Unlike the book, I did not go inside. Everything from there on is fiction. 

The character of Joey is based on my brother. We were very close growing up. He really did, as a teenager, have black curly hair and an electric guitar. I think Joey’s a more accomplished player than my brother ever was though, haha. 

I wanted to write a story about nostalgia that focused on the strongest bonds I’ve known—the bond between mother and child, and the bond between brother and sister. I developed Amber by giving her strong relationships and forcing her to face loss and difficult choices. 

WOW: That photo scene is so vivid, and the familial bonds are compelling! Your book is a page turner. Now that you've let us in on some of your secrets, what is your writing routine and how does journaling plays a part in it?

Elizabeth: My writing routine changes year to year. While writing Linden Way five years ago, I wrote in fits and starts, bursts of creativity followed by fallow periods that could last for months. I don’t recommend this. I had too much time on my hands back then; my children were both in school and I worked very little, mostly on weekends, so that I could always be there to take them to school, pick them up, and be present on their vacations and holidays. Having entire days at home in which to write made writing harder. 

In 2019 I began working part-time during the weekdays, which left me a specific ninety-minute period in the morning for writing, and that’s when I began writing daily. In one year, I drafted three books. Now I work full-time as a classroom teacher, and I have even less time to write, but I’ve come to realize that five hours a week is all I need for drafting.

As for journaling, I got in the habit of journaling through every project when writing my book of short stories, What Was Never There, in 2015. It started as just a quick summary in the email I would send to myself with the day’s work attached. Now I work either longhand or in Google Docs and don’t need to email myself copies, but I always have a separate doc of the journal for that project. The journaling takes mere minutes and is so helpful because I’m able to look back at what I accomplished on any given day and what I struggled with. What’s really fun is looking back after a year or several and having the entire journey of that project preserved. 

I really got this idea from reading John Steinbeck’s journal of writing The Grapes of Wrath. It’s incredible. He journaled every day he wrote and we now have a historical account of his process writing this great American classic. He struggled mightily with imposter’s syndrome, he had days of elation and total despair, and it’s just so relatable and inspiring. It’s also a good reminder that while writing can feel magical, it is not magic—it is simply consistent, hard work. 

WOW: That's so interesting that the less time you had to write, the more productive you became! I believe this is true for many writers. I'm going to check out Steinbeck's method, and you're so right about it being consistent, hard work. What about your writing space? What is absolutely necessary to inspire you?

Elizabeth: I’ve learned to write pretty much anywhere. Right now, I’m sitting in my car writing on a lap desk in the parking lot of my local library. The sky is stormy and gray; it’s seven in the morning on a Saturday, and I’m stealing this hour of time before anyone realizes they need me. By then I’ll be walking back through the front door, probably with donuts. 

My preferred writing spot is in a coffee shop, where I draft by hand. All I need is a notebook and a pencil and some earbuds. When the world shut down in the spring of 2020 and I no longer had my coffee shop, I got used to writing at home again. I hung a sign on my bedroom door that said I was working from 8:15-9:45, the same time I would write at the coffee shop. Later that summer, I switched to my daughter’s room in the early mornings, where the house was quietest. I spread out a quilt on her floor, brought my pencil and notebook, and wrote bleary-eyed the first draft of my middle grade book, Halloween Eternal.

Now that I’m working full-time, I write in my car after dropping my son off at school and before going into work. I have about 45 minutes a few days a week, and then on weekends an hour or two. The key for me is not where I write but when, and using time blocks to maintain focus. I need a start time and, more importantly, an end time. Within that narrow structure I can always produce a few pages, and there’s a sense of urgency that was missing when I had all the time in the world.

WOW: I love that you can write anywhere and admire your dedication, Elizabeth! (I've been known to come up with fantastic ideas while waiting to pick up children from sporting events - so this speaks to me!) Who has been most influential in your writing career and what have you done to thank them? 

Elizabeth: The person who has been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration to me is my friend Carrie Ann Lahain. We met in an online marketing class called Launch Your Email Newsletter back in 2014 when we were both promoting our debut novels. I read her book, she read mine, we admired each other’s work and became critique partners. Carrie inspires me not only because she’s an amazingly gifted writer, but because she is strong, brave, and consistent. She’s self-published all of her books and confidently writes across genres—historical fiction, horror, mystery, contemporary romance, fantasy, you name it.

About three years ago, Carrie and I started a weekly email exchange we call our accountability emails. Every Friday we send each other a quick summary of what we did (or didn’t do!) that week, and it keeps me on my toes. She was the first person to read Linden Way, and she’s read every draft for the last five years, so you can see how much I owe her! I thank her by letting her know time and again how much I appreciate her, and also that I’m her biggest fan.

WOW: Having an accountability partner and reader is so important, and I bet she's just as thankful for you, too. So tell us, what's next for you?

Elizabeth: So I started writing a YA cozy mystery series three years ago, and I’m currently drafting the third book. I plan to write five in the series and begin publishing it next summer. The first book, Murder by Milkshake, is available on Kindle Vella, Amazon’s serialized fiction platform, and has done pretty well on there. I have a post about that coming up! But it’s not the same as having a print and ebook available, and I’m looking forward to self-publishing those starting next July. I already have the cover for the first book, and it’s so gorgeous it’s hard not to share it right now! 

I also have a middle grade horror and another novella, written in the same literary style as Linden Way, that need editing. My book of short stories, What Was Never There, is something I plan to self-publish soon as well. Finally, I hope to refocus soon on my shorter fiction and creative nonfiction and continue publishing those in literary magazines.  

WOW: Wow, that's so exciting, Elizabeth! It sounds like serializing your work and self-publishing is really working out for you. I'm going to sneak in one last question. What's your advice when it comes to self-publishing vs traditional publishing now that you've experienced both?

Elizabeth: I’ve had great experiences with both! I personally prefer self-publishing though. 

Self-publishing suits me because it takes away the feeling that my book has to sell a certain number of copies to justify the investment an agent and/or publisher put into it. I have ridiculously high standards for myself, which bodes well for my creative work but not so well when it comes to something as ambiguous and out of my control as book sales. I’d always feel like a failure; I’d always worry I was disappointing someone. I’d rather bear the costs of publishing and not have that pressure. The joy for me is in creating, not selling. 

I’m not sure this works well as advice, because it really depends on why someone writes. As a creative pursuit? Or to sell books? Or to see your book on a bookshelf at Barnes & Noble? My advice is to ask yourself why you write, and then find the publishing path that best suits your needs. If your path is traditional publishing, know it’s a long hard road, but there’s a wonderfully supportive writing community out there, and dreams do come true. 

WOW: Excellent advice! Thanks so much, Elizabeth, for taking time to chat with us today and for your generous answers. I can't wait to check out all your stops, and wish you the best of luck on your tour! 

The House on Linden Way by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo Blog Tour


-- Blog Tour Calendar

September 19th @ The Muffin
Join us as we celebrate the launch of The House on Linden Way by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. Crystal interviews the author about her book and also gives away a copy to one lucky reader.

September 22nd @ Deborah Adams
Today, The House on Linden Way is in the spotlight at Deborah Adams blog with a guest post written by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo titled: "Exploring our Deepest Fears Through Speculative Fiction."

September 23rd @ The Faerie Review
In today's spotlight at The Faerie Review is Elizabeth Maria Naranjo's latest book The House on Linden Way. Readers will be thrilled to learn more about this fabulous read!

September 26 @ What is That Book About
Elizabeth Maria Naranjo is in the spotlight at What is That Book About as readers learn more about Naranjo's thriller: The House on Linden Way! Don't miss this blog stop on Naranjo's WOW! Women on Writing book blog tour!

September 27th @ Writer, Writer, Pants on Fire with Mindy McGinnis
Elizabeth Maria Naranjo pens today's guest post at Mindy's blog. Learn more about Naranjo's latest book The House on Linden Way as well as today's topic: "Traditional vs Self Publishing and My Experience with Both" as Naranjo offers some insight into her stories!

September 30th @ The Faerie Review
Hear some of Elizabeth Maria Naranjo's favorite October stories as she pens today's guest post at The Faerie Review. This is also your chance to learn more about her latest thriller: The House on Linden Way. Don't miss this opportunity!

October 1st @ Boots, Shoes and Fashion
Linda at Boots, Shoes and Fashion shares her thoughts after reading Elizabeth Maria Naranjo's latest book called The House on Linden Way. This is a thrilling read and we can't wait to hear what Linda thinks! 

October 2nd @ Word Magic with Fiona Ingram
Fiona from Word Magic is hosting Elizabeth Maria Naranjo today. This is a great opportunity for readers to learn about Naranjo's latest book: The House on Linden Way as well as read her guest post titled: "The Lingering Ghosts of Our Childhood Homes." Readers will be thrilled to hear from Naranjo! 

October 3rd @ One Writer's Journey
Sue Bradford Edwards offers her review of The House on Linden Way by fellow author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. Find out what Sue thinks and learn more about this thriller!

October 3rd @ World of My Imagination
Nicole Pyles of WOW! Women on Writing offers a thoughtful review of The House on Linden Way by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo - readers won't want to miss the opportunity to learn more about this thrilling book and it's talented author!

October 8th @ Boots, Shoes and Fashion
Linda interviews Elizabeth Maria Naranjo about her latest thriller, The House on Linden Way! This book blog tour is one readers won't want to miss - it's THRILLING!

October 10th @ Girl Zombie Authors
Chris at Girl Zombie Authors shares her review of Elizabeth Maria Naranjo's The House on Linden Way - will it be too thrilling for this fellow author? Find out TODAY and be thrilled! https://girlzombieauthors.blogspot.com/

October 10th @ Choices with Madeline Sharples
Today's post is titled: "Tips For Getting Unstuck While Writing Your Novel" and it's penned by none other than Elizabeth Maria Naranjo as she just released her latest thriller The House on Linden Way. Find out more today!

October 11th @ Author Anthony Avina
Author Anthony Avina puts fellow author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo in the spotlight today as readers learn more about The House on Linden Way - this is a book blog tour stop that will thrill and delight! 

October 13th  @ Knotty Needle Creative
Judy reviews The House on Linden Way for readers at Knotty Needle Creative. Find out more about this thriller and it's talented author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo!

October 16th @ Literary Quicksand
Jessica from Literary Quicksand reviews The House on Linden Way by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo - what will she think? Will fellow author Elizabeth be able to thrill Jessica? Stop by today to find out! 

October 18th @ Author Anthony Avina
Author Anthony Avina reviews the work of fellow author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo and offers his thoughts about The House on Linden Way!

October 20th @ Reading is My Remedy
Chelsea from Reading is My Remedy offers her review of Elizabeth Maria Naranjo's The House on Linden Way for readers of her blog. This is a thriller and we can't wait to find out Chelsea's take on it! 

October 23rd @ Literary Quicksand
Jessica from Literary Quicksand interviews Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. Learn more about this talented author and her latest thriller, The House on Linden Way!

October 25th @ Author Anthony Avina
Author Elizabeth Maria Naranjo pens today's guest post at fellow author Anthony Avina's blog with the title: "The Art of Brevity; Writing a Novella." Hear from Elizabeth and find out more about her latest thriller, The House on Linden Way.

October 27th  @ The Frugalista Mom
The Frugalista Mom offers her review of The House on Linden Way by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo. Find out more and stop by today!

October 30th  @ Wildwood Reads
Megan from Wildwood Reads offers her review of the thriller, The House on Linden Way by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo! Stop by and get in the mood for tomorrow!


***** BOOK GIVEAWAY *****

Enter to win a copy of The House on Linden Way by Elizabeth Maria Naranjo by filling out the Rafflecopter form below. The giveaway ends October 2nd at 11:59pm CT. We will announce the winner in the Rafflecopter widget the next day and follow up via email. Good Luck!


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Audry Fryer's Until Next Sunday Blog Tour, Author Interview, and Book Giveaway

Monday, May 09, 2022

 



I'm excited to announce the WOW! Women on Writing book blog tour with author and Audry Fryer and her book Until Next Sunday. 

This book is written with so much heart - you can't help but fall in love with the characters from this historical romance!

Here's a bit about the book:

 After bravely leaving the life she knew to come to America, 
illness threatens Rosina’s happily ever after. 
When separated, will letters keep their love alive? 

Rosina leaves Italy to build a better life, but the reality in America is nothing like the dream. She is far from the Italian countryside and the beautiful olive groves where she grew up. Here the work is endless, and the winters are cold and desolate. She never expects to find love in such a place. 

Then she met him. Gianni, the shoemaker’s apprentice, is gentle, handsome, and everything she never knew she needed in her life. 

But when Rosina falls ill and is quarantined, their future is at stake. All she can do is cling to the beautiful letters Gianni writes. Each week she tries to survive the long, lonely days until next Sunday for his brief visit. 

Will fate bring Rosina and Gianni together once more? Or are they destined to remain star-crossed forever? 

Until Next Sunday is a sweet historical romance inspired by a true story. It is based on actual Italian love letters which were discovered a century after they were written (some of which are contained in this book.) It is a portrait of the times, and a true immigrant experience. Feel the force with which these two lives find love, against all odds.

Purchase your own copy on: Smashwords, Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, or Kobo.

About the Author


Audry Fryer is an author and professional freelance writer from Pennsylvania. Formerly a teacher, Audry wrote her first novel while her toddler son and twin babies napped. As her children have grown into teenagers, she has expanded her writing career. Audry lives with her family and two pugs in a quiet corner of Southeastern PA. To learn more about Audry, please visit her website at www.audryfryer.com.

Social Media Links:

#untilnextsunday

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AudryFryerWriter/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audryfryerauthor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AudryFryer Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/awdry/_saved/

Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60169629-until-next-sunday

...............interview by Crystal J. Casavant-Otto 

WOW: How was Until Next Sunday born? I loved the book and can't wait to hear the behind-the-scenes details about how everything started! Do tell us all the great details! 

Audry: You could say that Until Next Sunday was born over a hundred years ago when Gianni wrote his very first love letter to Rosina. Over the next several months, they would write over a hundred love letters to each other as they persevered to keep their love alive during a difficult separation. Later in life, Rosina lovingly archived those letters in an album intended for photographs and stored them in her attic. When Rosina died, the box containing the album of love letters was passed from family member to family member, attic to attic. Eventually, a family member took an interest in the letters. But they were written in an Italian dialect that couldn't be easily translated. Amazingly, the family found a translator, a professor at the University of Delaware, who was traveling to visit his family in the same region of Italy. Until Next Sunday includes a beautiful letter from Biagio, the translator. The family, specifically three sisters, the granddaughters of Rosina, could finally read the letters. They knew they had to share this beautiful love story with the world. First, they pursued making it into a movie. However, they received advice that they should create a novel first. Here's where I come in! 

One of the sisters, Laurie, married my husband's uncle. She knew I was an author and had self-published two ebooks on Amazon. She asked if I'd be interested - I jumped at the opportunity. Soon, I received a box of papers containing the typed-up copies of the love letters. That was the summer of 2016. During the next five years, I would write and rewrite the story several times. I eventually worked with an editor and, finally, an independent publisher. By the time we published Until Next Sunday on February 14th of this year, those love letters had made an incredible journey- much like Rosina and Gianni had when they immigrated to America! 

WOW: That is such an amazing story in and of itself. Definitely a labor of love for everyone involved! What was the most difficult part of this project? How did you overcome it? 

Audry: There were two difficult parts. 

First, the love letters only told part of the story. I had to research, imagine, and piece together what must have occurred from letter to letter. 

The second difficult part was making sure the story made sense. There were so many unanswered questions the letters left us wondering. For example, what was the true cause of Rosina's illness? Was it tuberculosis or an infected tooth? And, what prevented Rosina from leaving the sanitorium? By the time we, meaning myself and the three sisters, reached out to an editor, I had created several versions of the story. The developmental editor we worked with was incredible. She guided me to where changes needed to be made and helped shape the story into a true page-turner. 

WOW: As someone who has read the book, I must say you did a fabulous job making everything seamless - it never felt like any pieces or details were left out! Who has been your greatest supporter when it comes to writing and publishing your work? 

Audry: My parents have been my greatest supporter of my writing and publishing work. I credit my mom for my love of reading, leading to my desire to write. We both share and discuss books often. She reads so much more than me, so she's always letting me know her critique. If she says I'll like a book, she's usually right! And, best of all, she loved reading Until Next Sunday. As for Until Next Sunday, the story's creators, Linda, Susan, and Laurie, have boosted my writing career. When they entrusted me with their grandparent's story, I felt honored. And because of them, I was finally able to have a print version for sale. I'll never forget Laurie handing me the advanced copy of the paperback. It felt unbelievable to hold a book I wrote in my hands! 

WOW: Now you've held your book baby! I definitely love that term and congratulations to you and your tribe of supporters on this birth!

If Until Next Sunday was made into a movie, what song do you think should be part of the movie version? (and why) 

Audry: When Until Next Sunday is made into a movie (and I say "when," not "if" because it's a real goal), I found the perfect song - "A Sunday Kind of Love" by Etta James. It's a classic, soulful, romantic song that's not well known. I love her voice. Most people know Etta James for "At Last" which is another fantastic song. I found the song, "A Sunday Kind of Love" when I created a playlist on Spotify for Until Next Sunday. The playlist is part of my free book club kit download that you receive for signing up for my bi-weekly newsletter at www.audryfryer.com. You don't have to be in a book club to enjoy it - it's fun for all readers. Also, if you want to listen to the playlist I made of romantic songs with a flair of Italian, search Spotify for the playlist entitled, Until Next Sunday. It's a great soundtrack to play in the background when you're cooking an Italian-inspired meal. 

 

WOW: That's such a great song - thanks for the explanation AND now I will be waiting (rather impatiently) to watch the movie of Until Next Sunday!

In the meantime - What's next for you? 

Audry: The only critique we've received for Until Next Sunday is that readers want more. They want more backstory, more details, and more scenes. They want to know what happened before the story began and more about their lives after the story ends. So I'm open to writing a prequel or a sequel in the future. For right now, I'm working on my website and my Book Lover's Blog. I want my website and my blog to be a helpful resource for readers to find fantastic book recommendations and informative tips for living their book lover lifestyle to the fullest. I plan to write posts about everything from creating a reading nook to finding the best reading apps and more.

WOW: There are so many exciting things in the work for you Audry, and we here at WOW! can't wait to see all your dreams come to fruition! Thanks for reaching out and having us be part of your plan to spread the word about Until Next Sunday! We are excited for your tour and beyond! 



- Blog Tour Calendar

May 9th @ The Muffin
Join us as we celebrate the launch of Until Next Sunday by Audry Fryer. We interview the author about her book and also give away a copy to one lucky reader.

May 10th @ Create Write Now 
Today's guest post at Create Write Now comes from Audry Fryer as she pens an article titled: "The Importance of a Talented Editor." Hear from Audry on this important topic and find out more about her latest work: Until Next Sunday.

May 11th @ Pages & Paws 
Kristine from Pages and Paws reviews Until Next Sunday by Audry Fryer. This historical romance is delighting readers. Find out what Kristine thinks!

May 13th @ Rebecca J. Whitman
Audry Fryer pens today's travel inspired guest post on Rebecca J. Whitman's blog. Find out more about Fryer's book Until Next Sunday and the region of Italy featured in the book.

May 16th @ What is that Book About
Today's book spotlight at What is that Book About is none other than Audry Fryer's latest Until Next Sunday. Readers will want to add this gem to their TBR pile right away!

May 16th @ Rebecca J. Whitman
Don't miss today's podcast with Rebecca J. Whitman as she features Audry Fryer and Audry's latest book Until Next Sunday.

May 17th @ Beverley A. Baird
Beverley A. Baird welcomes Audry Fryer to her blog today. Stop by and learn more about Fryer's latest book Until Next Sunday and find out the inside story about "How 100 Love Letters Became a Novel."

May 18th @ Linda Appleman Shapiro
Book Reviewer, Author, Behavioral Psychotherapist, Artist, Oral Historian, and Public Speaker Linda Appleman Shapiro, reviews and shares her thoughts after reading Until Next Sunday by Audry Fryer. Don't miss Shapiro's insight on this beautiful historical romance.

May 19th @ A Storybook World
A StoryBook World welcomes Audry Fryer and Until Next Sunday to the spotlight today! Stop by and find out more about the historical romance everyone is talking about!

May 20th @ Rebecca J. Whitman
Rebecca J. Whitman reviews Audry Fryer's Until Next Sunday and shares her thoughts with readers on her blog; don't miss a chance to learn more about this historical romance that is delighting readers young and old!

May 20th @ Word Magic
Readers at Fiona Ingram's blog will hear from Audry Fryer today as she writes about the difference between historical romance and historical fiction. Is there a difference? Find out today and learn more about Fryer's latest work Until Next Sunday.

May 24th @ Mindy McGinnis
Readers at Mindy McGinnis' blog will hear from Audry Fryer today as she writes about how to create a book club kit for your readers. Sop by and learn more about Fryer's latest work Until Next Sunday.

May 24th @ Author Anthony Avina
Readers at Anthony Avina's blog will hear from Audry Fryer today as she writes about Roses and what they symbolize in books. Stop by today and learn more about Fryer's latest work Until Next Sunday.

May 25th @ Choices with Madeline Sharples
Fellow author Madeline Sharples has Audry Fryer and Until Next Sunday in the spotlight at her blog today! Stop by and see what all the fuss is about!

May 30th @ Bring on Lemons with High School Student, Carmen Otto
Teenager Carmen Otto offers her 5 star review of Audry Fryer's Until Next Sunday. Otto can't wait for her school library to add this gem to their collection! Read more from Carmen about this historical romance today!

May 31st @ Reading is My Remedy
Chelsie Stanford of Reading is My Remedy offers her review of Audry Fryer's Until Next Sunday. Find out what Chelsie has to say about this historical romance and it's talented author!

June 1st @ Lisa's Reading
Lisa from Lisa's Reading has Audry Fryer's Until Next Sunday in the spotlight today! Stop by and see the historical romance everyone is talking about!

June 2nd @ KnottyNeedle Creative
Judy from the Knotty Needle offers her review of Audry Fryer's Until Next Sunday for readers of her blog. This is a delightful historical romance and readers will want to hear what Judy has to say!

June 2nd @ Beverley A. Baird
Beverley A. Baird reviews Until Next Sunday by Audry Fryer. This historical romance is getting lots of attention - find out what Beverley thinks!

June 3rd @ Author Anthony Avina
Author Anthony Avina reviews fellow author Audry Fryer's latest historical romance, Until Next Sunday. Find out from one author to another what Anthony thinks of this book!

June 4th @ Boots, Shoes and Fashion
Linda of Boots Shoes & Fashion interviews Audry Fryer about her latest historical fiction, Until Next Sunday; don't miss this insightful interview!
https://bootsshoesandfashion.com/

June 5th @ Choices with Madeline Sharples
Madeline Sharples welcomes a guest author to her blog - today, readers will hear from Audry Fryer about Until Next Sunday as well as learning what Audry has to say about Top Strong Female Characters in Literature.

June 9th @ The Frugalista Mom
The Fruglista Mom, Rozelyn, shares her review of Until Next Sunday by Audry Fryer! This is a book and review you won't want to miss!

June 10th @ World of My Imagination
WOW! Blog Tour Manager Nicole Pyles shares her review of Until Next Sunday by Audry Fryer. Nicole's review wraps up the book blog tour for this historical romance - find out what Nicole has to say about this beautiful story!


***** BOOK GIVEAWAY *****

Enter to win a copy of Until Next Sunday by Audry Fryer by filling out the Rafflecopter form below. The giveaway ends May 22nd at 11:59 CT. We will announce the winner the next day in the Rafflecopter widget and follow up via email. Good luck!

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