Horror 4+/5
Maggie, a monster-hunter, discovers the killer of the abducted child she was sent to find is much more devious than anyone suspected. There is so much to love about this novel: the great characterization and relationships depicted, the unique and creative setting, and the ever-deepening mystery and increasing stakes. Recommended!
My latest “book” came out yesterday. Booklet, actually: only 11K words–a bio of my sister, fifth woman in Canada to earn her full Mountain Guides certification, with an amazing career of rescues in the mountains.
Thief-extraordinaire Emily, hunted down by an organized crime lord for her past transgressions, gathers a motley crew of misfits to solve a lucrative puzzle. Fun, fun, fun! This fast-paced heist piles twist after twist on an ever-escalating series of dangers for the band of thieves. The charming rascals are driven by their own agendas, which adds to the chaos—and surprise rescues! Laugh aloud, but you’ll be turning pages as fast as you can, on the edge of your seat. The only downside? I like a book that ends, rather than leading to a Book 2. But if you don’t mind that, check out Corona Burning, the conclusion to the tale.
World Fantasy was a fun getaway and opportunity to reconnect with colleagues. I sat on one panel on disability in fiction, which was excellent, and attended a number of panels where I learned a lot. Did a bit of business, as well. A fun weekend!
Got away for a 5-day writers’ retreat in Whitefish, Montana. A friend has a house there which is mostly rented out, but this window wasn’t booked; several of us have gone there a couple of times per year for a few years, so it’s a familiar environment while still being away from the daily grind. You always wonder how much stress will affect your creativity, and so I was easing back into writing after not getting much done during my daughter’s illness and passing. I managed to review all 3 of the first books in my series and take notes on threads I want to be sure are developed in the rest of the series, and was inspired by some things I can do to shape the next books. I also did some research. So, a good 5 days. Tomorrow I head out to Niagara Falls for the World Fantasy Convention.
