Cozy Mystery Holiday Gift Guide

Hello, dear readers! 

I hope this holiday season finds you and your family well and safe. In these turbulent times, I'm reminded that we must treasure each day God gives us.  As we press on, Thanksgiving seems to be officially blended in with Christmas as more and more people choose to decorate early, including myself. With traveling more to grown children's homes for the holidays, I find myself compelled to decorate earlier every year when the holidays get closer. Now, instead of decorating the day after Thanksgiving, we will be having our tree-trimming party the weekend before. Anyone else experiencing this change of events?

The next thing to start thinking about is gifts and what to give. I find parents are the most challenge. My mom didn’t need a thing, but she did love to read. Books bring a different world to readers and provide great entertainment for hours. I count a new book as a definite treat!

If you'd like to give a friend or a loved one a gift that keeps on giving, the Jillian Bradley mysteries might be a good choice. Rated G with no profanity or offensive scenes, they are the perfect gift choice for readers on your list. Books range in price from $7.99 to $11.99 for paperbacks and FREE to $3.99 for eBooks. Not bad when you consider one can purchase the entire series for under $99.00 + tx and s/h. (Amazon Prime members enjoy free s/h!) 

Besides the 10 book series, there are short stories about Jillian and Teddy included in the holiday anthologies "A Cup of Cozy" series, and the latest one out "Happy Homicides." The "Cup of Cozy" anthologies include recipes and menus, and recipes and crafts abound in the bonus issue of "Happy Homicides."

Here is a complete list of books and buy links: 

    Book Purchase Sites 

Whatever gifts we give and receive, may we be reminded of the greatest gift of all - Jesus, God's only begotten Son. 

Happy Holidays!

~Nancy Jill

God has blessed me beyond even my wildest imagination, always guiding my life, giving me a loving husband, four wonderful children, and a number of precious grandchildren. I hope you enjoy the Jillian Bradley mysteries - they are works of love.

To stay in touch please visit these sites.

Twitter - @mystriterdva

Blog - Author Nancy Jill Thames, Queen of Afternoon Tea
Pinterest - mystriterdva
Blog - Cozy Mystery Magazine
Goodreads - Nancy Jill Thames
Facebook
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jillthames@gmail.com

4 Ways to Preserve Memories

By Nancy Jill Thames

How many of you still make jam? When I was a young housewife, my garden club friends and I enjoyed making peach or strawberry preserves - especially in the summertime. We'd tie on handmade aprons and spend the day sterilizing jars and cooking up batches of sweet fruit with a little sugar and pectin. After the fruit was thick, we ladled it into the jars and sealed them in hot water baths. What a triumph to divvy up the days work and take our share home. Making homemade ice-cream was a lot of fun, too. 

Now those days are only a memory. How to hold on to such wonderful times? I figure there are four ways.

 





1. Think about them once in a while and smile to yourself.

2. Put photos of memories in a scrapbook to peruse now and then.

3.Talk to your family and friends about the good 'ol days. Or,

4. Write a book.

Paperback $8.99 Kindle $3.99
 Nook Book $3.99 Smashwords $3.99 Kobo $3.99  

Our family enjoys wonderful holidays together - especially Christmas. "Waiting for Santa" was written with fond memories of our family traditions that continue to this day. Not only does the book preserve memories for me, now others who enjoyed those traditions can hold on to them as well. 

After five books in the series, I felt it was time for Jillian Bradley to fall in love in "Waiting for Santa," which she does, only with two different men. And, as the ending suggests, the story isn't over yet! 

I hope you enjoy reading about our traditions. Maybe it will inspire you to preserve a few of your own in some special way. Have a wonderful week, dear readers.

See you in my books!

 ~Nancy Jill 

Mystery novelist Nancy Jill Thames began publishing Christian fiction in 2010. The author of six books in the Jillian Bradley series, she is an award winning blogger and is listed numerous times on the Author Watch Bestseller’s List, this in addition to winning first place for her Chocolate Cream Pie.

When she isn’t plotting her next book, she spends time with her six grandchildren in two states, tags along with her husband on business trips, and plays classical piano for her own personal enjoyment. She is an active member of the Leander Writers Guild and supports the Central Texas SPCA with a portion of her book sales.

nd. Nancy Jill is busy working on book 7 "The Ruby of Siam" a mystery taking place in London.

CONTACT INFORMATION

jillthames@gmail.com

In the Wake of Sadness - There is Hope

Once upon a time, there lived a happy young couple, friends of ours, who had two adorable little girls, aged five and three. Their dad was a successful business man, and their mom was a pretty young housewife with a radiant smile. The couple took their little girls to Sunday School and church every Sunday, and lived exemplary lives.

One day, as the little family was running errands and doing some Saturday shopping, they came to a stoplight. Just as their car stopped, a drunk driver rear-ended them, sending one little girl through the front windshield and the other through a back seat window. Both children died on impact, leaving the young couple in a state of utter shock and disbelief.

After the funerals, the couple attended the court session for the young man who was responsible for killing their little girls. But because they were Christians, they openly forgave the man and he walked free.

Unlike many who suffer tragic loss and live in never-ending grief, this couple chose to accept the deaths of their two daughters and trusted God to work His will for them. And He did.

I believe it was only about two years after the tragedy that a son was born to them, and later, another son was added to their family. Since we moved away, that was the last update I had on this couple.

The way they handled the horrible incident has stayed with me through the years. When I hear of gunmen ending peoples lives so senselessly as in this past week in Oregon and Connecticut, I pray that those who mourn will be comforted. Not only do I pray for God to comfort them, I pray they will seek God's perfect will for their lives as they have to move on.

I've been criticized for sharing my faith on occasion in the Jillian Bradley Mysteries, but when I've seen God's hand in the lives of people I know, seen the way He answers prayer and meets our needs, I cannot help but share about His wonderful love.

Thanks for letting me share this week. And thank you for continued prayer for the friends and families who lost their loved ones. 

If you have similar stories of  families conquering grief, I'd love to hear them.

~Nancy Jill

SUCCESS STORY

It has always been my goal to entertain readers with stories of intrigue and mystery, interlaced with beauty and the good life.When a reader writes reviews like these, my success is complete. Thank you!

Customer Reviews

		decency1st reviewed From the Clutches of Evil: A Jillian Bradley Mystery Worth Reading! November 28, 2012 This was a book I had to read straight to the finish without interruptions. It read like history from the East Bay of Central California. I could picture those canyons and trees. Yes, it took place in modern day with the main sleuth I've grown to love, but the story stretched back a century. Even though it took place in her home surroundings instead of a fancy resort, it was none the less satisfying. I have read uncountable mystery stories but this was a very new and unexpected storyline. Good entertainment!
		decency1st reviewed The Ghost Orchid Murder (The Jillian Bradley Mystery Series, Vol. 2) Lovely, comforting mystery! November 28, 2012 Can a murder mystery be lovely and comforting? By this author it can. This book gives fresh meaning to the term "cozy" mystery! The setting of the southwest was vividly described, along with good meals at a posh resort, well-rounded characters, and a very original mystery to boot. The comfort part comes in with the ease in which the author has the main character share her faith in God and heartfelt prayers. Also, zero profanity and other such offensive things. Filoli House was mentioned also which I love. Looking forward to the next book. Quite a bargain for the kindle price of $2.99.

An Early Christmas this Year

We authors so appreciate reviews from happy readers. Thank you! Had to share two that I received this week.

Christian Mystery Thriller! November 22, 2012

Available on Amazon.com

By Dolores Ayotte 

Format:Kindle Edition

In my opinion, in "The Ghost Orchid Murder"...the second novel in this series...the main character and super sleuth Jillian Bradley has a kindred spirit. As I was reading this captivating novel, my mind kept recalling Angela Lansbury in her role as Jessica Fletcher in the once popular television show, Murder She Wrote. Both of these female characters play a similar role...writers, widows, and willful women determined to solve murder mysteries.

Talented Author Nancy Jill Thames demonstrates her creative ability in this Christian mystery novel. Along with a suspenseful "whodunit" murder, she manages to incorporate a touch of faith, a hint of romance, as well as the key ingredients it takes to write an enjoyable mystery novel. The many characters/suspects in the story add to the intensity of solving the murder mystery in an expedient and effective manner. Jillian Bradley, along with her lovable dog Teddy, manage to assist in solving this crime in no time flat. If you enjoy a good, clean mystery murder, then this is the novel for you.

Here is the second review.

Available on Amazon.com

New! decency1st reviewed Murder in Half Moon Bay (Jillian Bradley Mysteries, No. 1) (A Jillian Bradley Mystery)

WOW! AWESOME BOOK!! November 19, 2012

This was an enjoyable read! I needed something fun today as I waited for family to come in for the holiday. I interspersed a chapter read with a cleaning chore and the day went by quickly. The house is ready for company and I've found a new favorite author and mystery series. Even though I'm on the east coast now, I've been to Half Moon Bay and the Ritz so I knew just what she was talking about. I love it too, but who wouldn't! It was good to be reminded.
I was glad I didn't run into the usual four letter words and nasty content that cause me to stop reading and go for the refund button. That was really a relief, a breath of fresh air. I thank this author for that, along with making it an affordable price on the kindle. I wish her a Happy Thanksgiving as I've something extra to be thankful for this year. Keep up the good writing!

Poll Results - We Have a Winner!

Hey Jillian and Teddy fans! The results are in and we have a winner! Congratulations to Don Wilson! He wins a signed copy of "Waiting for Santa"due to launch this month.

  


Here's how you voted:

1. a  Most readers heard of the books through word of mouth.  

2. d  Most readers read the entire series.

3. a  Most readers gave a 5 Star Rating.

4. a  50% of readers wrote a review.  b. 50 % of readers did not write a review, yet.

5. c  Most readers both purchased and downloaded the books for free.

This was an awesome poll! I appreciate your honesty, and will anticipate doing it again next year. 

Have a great week, dear readers, and remember to take a little time to brighten someones day. You've brightened mine!

~Nancy Jill

REWARD: READER POLL DAY 7/7

Who wants a signed paperback copy of "Waiting for Santa" hot off the press? 

You've probably heard of "focus groups" where random samples of community members come together to discuss issues regarding the community. My husband uses them occasionally in his work and the results are sometimes shocking! Since authors rely on reviews and social media feedback to gauge their audience's reaction, I thought I might do the same. 

Reviews are great insight into an author's work, but only a small fraction of readers write reviews. Polls can be an easier device to measure a reader base - if the readers will comment. I hope you'll take the time to do so.

Here are the questions:

1. How did you discover the Jillian Bradley Mysteries?

a.  word of mouth
b.  mentioned on a blog
c.  mentioned on Facebook
d.  mentioned on Twitter
e.  promoted by Amazon

2. If you read "Murder in Half Moon Bay" did you read or buy:

a.  book 2 "The Ghost Orchid Murder"
b.  book 2 and book 3 "From the Clutches of Evil"
c.  book 2, book 3 and book 4 "The Mark of Eden"
d.  book 2, book 3, book 4 and book 5 "Pacific Beach"
e.  none of the above

3. Overall, would you rate the books:

a.  5-Stars
b.  4-Stars
c.  3-Stars
d.  2-Stars
e.  1-Star

4. Have you written a review for any of the books?

a.  yes
b.  no

5. Finally, do you purchase the books or get them when they're free?


a.  purchase only
b.  get free only
c.  purchase and get free

Please leave your answers in a comment. Example 1. a, 2. d etc. 

 Please join this site if you're new (box to the right) and include your email to receive your winning copy!  

Winner of my new book will be announced Monday, November 12, 2012. 

Your input is much appreciated. I'm always striving to improve my work for your enjoyment in any way possible. Poll results will be posted with the winning comment selected. My hubby will draw the winner. Good luck pollsters!

Have a great weekend, my friends!

~Nancy Jill

When the Power Goes Out! by Nancy Jill Thames

COMING SOON!

Hurricane Sandy was quite a storm! Sadly, some scientists are predicting more of the same... and worse in the coming days. People are left with ruined homes, cars crushed by trees, and a huge mess to clean up. My heart aches for all who are dealing with these issues.

I can remember the power going out a few years ago in California when a large electrical system failed. Neighbors came to our house since we had a barbeque grill which used charcoal. We were able to eat hot food and keep warm. Candlelight provided us with a way to see in the darkness. In that scenario, we were fortunate to have power restored the next day. The east coast and the gulf coast were not as fortunate.

The repercussions of such a massive storm will last for months, if not years. Perhaps more children will be born as a result of the darkness and lack of activity - maybe someone will take the opportunity to eliminate an old enemy under the cover of downed services and chaos.

"Waiting for Santa," by sheer coincidence, is written with such a plot. The power failure doesn't last long, but the murderer takes full advantage of the situation. I hope you enjoy the story due out at the end of this month.

Stay safe, dear readers.

~Nancy Jill

NEW DAY - NEW MINDSET

Last week was a total bummer! Health issues, traveling with suitcases that were too heavy, and thinking I may die was not fun! But, hey - I'm ready to put it all behind and get on with today.

Love Tigger! Always bouncing and laughing at life. Reminds me of myself - except for weeks like that last one! Just wanted to share my thanks for your thoughts and prayers and let you know they worked! 

Have a great week, dear friends, and remember to keep bouncing!

~Nancy Jill

PLUG IN FOR POWER

Wouldn't it be fantastic if we could plug ourselves in and recharge? For electrical devices we use chargers, for electronics we simply plug the cord into a socket. What about you and me though, especially on Monday mornings? Exercise, good nutrition and rest are important, however there's more. For me, goals are my main motivation. Wired that way I suppose, but it's not a bad thing. What about you? Is Monday your favorite day of the week? Only when I feel in control of my to-do list do I ever look forward to the first day of the work week. 
     Today was tough to get started, feeling overwhelmed with self-imposed deadlines to get "Waiting for Santa" edited for my great Beta Reader Team to peruse. Coupled with everyday tasks, I wanted to run away to Hawaii and veg. Instead, I put one foot in front of the other, made breakfast for my wonderful hubby, threw together a crock pot of chili beans and cleaned off the Adirondack chairs on the patio. Okay, I feel a little energy coming. Nope, went away again. Maybe if I sit and  read something inspirational and pray for God to give me strength...yep! That did it! Perfect scriptures from Isaiah now have me up and running, doing this blog post for instance. Perfect. Sheets are washed, cookies baked and I feel the coffee kicking in! Now on to my list - only nine more things to go. Have a great week, my friends.

~Nancy Jill

FEELING LIKE ANOTHER GIVEAWAY!!

NANCY JILL THAMES, AUTHOR

If you don't have Book 2 yet, please be my guest to receive a free copy

(a $2.99-$11.99 Value) this weekend! A story of murder, love and devotion.

"THE GHOST ORCHID MURDER" 

by Nancy Jill Thames

It's been eight years since gardening columnist Jillian Bradley helped solve a string of murders in Half Moon Bay. But when a friend and colleague in Scottsdale, Arizona finds a young technical assistant dead on the floor of his private office, Jillian doesn't hesitate to answer his plea for help in the investigation. After all, a $2 million research grant depends on it.

    Together with Detective Jack Noble and Jillian's clue sniffing dog, Teddy, the three set out to track the killer who leaves a porcelain orchid over the wound as the only clue. Even though it means personal sacrifice for Jillian, she is determined to uncover the truth. A faith-based novel.

Available on Amazon.com  SEPTEMBER 15-17, 2012

FREE MEDS!

CHOOSE TO BE HAPPY - BETTER THAN CHICKEN SOUP!

HAVE AN AWESOME WEEKEND, MY FRIENDS.

~Nancy Jill

ARE YOU A GENIUS?

 Benjamin Franklin said:

"GENIUS IS NOTHING BUT A GREATER APTITUDE FOR PATIENCE."

Ah...so if we hang in there long enough and persevere, whatever our aim just might be well regarded as such. I thought this quote was quite provoking. As I considered people whom I regarded as geniuses, I thought of Thomas Edison, inventor of the light bulb. How many times did he fail? Countless. He believed in hard work, sometimes working twenty hours a day. Edison was quoted as saying, "Genius is one percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration." But because of his patience he created the source of most of the power we all use today. Pretty amazing. I for one am going to exercise more patience. Patience in my writing, patience in my editing, and most of all, patience in the journey of being a successful author. In what area in your life do you need more patience? Do certain individuals come to mind when you think of the word "genius?"

FEELING LIKE A GIVEAWAY!

PLEASE HELP YOURSELF TO  A FREE COPY

OF MY LATEST BOOK 

"PACIFIC BEACH" 

SAT AND SUN ONLY

Amazon.com

HAVE A NICE WEEKEND, MY FRIENDS!

STILL LEARNING

NANCY JILL THAMES

It's true! I drive my husband nuts! Well, at least some of the time. Childlike in my approach to life, I'm constantly learning things I never knew before - like a driver's license is only required at the ticket counter if you're checking bags. My husband looked at me ruefully as I tried offering my license to the agent. Right - we're only checking one bag - got it!

The journey as an author is one of constantly learning new things as well. In fact, the whole process is an incredible learning experience! Sometimes it takes three days to edit one chapter learning how to use a new editing site. Or learning how to show something happening in the story instead of telling what's happening. Not easy! But not impossible either - I just have to learn the craft. 

One author friend of mind, C. L. Ragsdale has this showing business down! I read all four of her Reboot Files within a couple of days. She's having tea with me this week over at "Queen of Afternoon Tea." 

She's giving away a copy of her first book "The Mystery of Hurtleberry House" to a lucky winner who leaves a comment and follows "Queen of Afternoon Tea."

 The winner of "Extraordinary Dreams of an Ireland Traveler" by Rosemary Adkins is Linneann. Congratulations! She commented and started following "Queen of Afternoon Tea" this week.

Have you learned anything new recently? Learning does keep life interesting. Have a great week, dear friends!

~Nancy Jill