review books – Alexie Linn, the Author, and Homespun Rebel

Posted on September 11, 2025September 10, 2025 by Alexie Linn

The Votes are in! Here’s The Results…

www.alexielinnauthor.com September 11, 2025

The Votes are in! Here’s What Happened…

It was a landslide tie for each of Rodney’s possible series title! What to do… what to do…

Here’s what I did…

I used a new main title for the series (also suggested by a reader) and added a subtitle. Voila! Something for everybody… Thank you for your input.

Here’s Rodney Mankin’s new business card:

The status of the series is:

The Prequel is chilling for its final edit.
Book 1 (*The Strange Case at Heaven’s Gate) draft is over halfway written.
Book 2 is playing hopscotch in my head. Is there a scenario you’d like to see Rodney and Sally take on? Email me here to share your ‘what if’ thoughts. And thank you!

*Here’s the tentative description of Book 1 The Strange Case at Heaven’s Gate:

What if long, deep scratches appeared on your town’s brand-new border wall. Night after night. All along the wall. They are crimson, like blood.

Along with the scratches come cries. Long, woeful cries. Eerie cries. Cries that could not be identified by any of the townspeople. Cries that could be human or animal.

At the same time, bodies appear on the outside of the wall directly behind the bloody scratches. They are all strangers to the townspeople of Heaven’s Gate. Each body has been mauled to death. Are they the marauders? Or are the marauders doing the mauling? Who or what is mangling them?

Have the townspeople successfully corralled themselves with a murderer that they now cannot escape from?

Rodney Mankin, Fur & Feather Whisperer and his assistant Sally the Loner has been called in to solve the mystery and stop the murders. Can they do it? Or will this be the one that puts the kibosh on Rodney’s gift?

The scenario seems to be changing as these characters evolve and take over the writing. Please don’t hold me to the exact storyline I’ve described above. Characters are an unruly lot.

On another note…

Joan Freed’s Ruby the Haunted eBook is due for a price increase in the next week or so.

Have you grabbed your copy for 99¢ yet? Click here to get it now.

A heads-up…

With price increases and policy changes, I, too, have to make changes to my methods. One change will be this newsletter/blog delivery service. I hope the transition goes as smooth as warm butter on a hot knife. Please let me know if things go wonky on your end. I know only what I send, which may not be the same as you receive.

Did you know?

That you can download, read, and review oodles of eBooks and audiobooks at absolutely no cost to you (including mine)?

Yep. It’s true. Story Origin has been my goto for more than a year now.

Are you ready for a quick escape from your current reality?

Great! Click here to instantly download eBooks and audiobooks in your favorite genre – for free! Or step outside your genre line to find your next favorite author without opening your wallet even once. Score!

You might also like…

(A shout out to Tiny Wow for the AI assist in inspiring me to write this post. Thank you. Also…some links may be affiliate links.)

Posted on August 28, 2025August 26, 2025 by Alexie Linn

First, An Apology

www.alexielinnauthor.com August 28, 2025

First, an embarrassing apology…

Nope. I did not know that my last post duplicated itself. I did not do it… however, I didn’t catch it, either. Boy was my face red when a subscriber pointed the error out to me!

What I have learned

I have now learned, forever and ever, to send myself a test email before I tell my email provider to schedule the post for sending it off to you.

Next up

The audiobook for The Screeching Shadows of Hidden Valley is finished! It’s been a long haul this time – for whatever reason.

Here’s the scoop…

‘Sally leapt out of bed, snagging her walking stick… “What? Who’s there?” She tip-toed to peer around the curtain that served as a wall to her bedroom. Nothing appeared.

“Rodney! Did you hear a deafening, spine-chilling, growling screech?”

Rodney, her old man doll with artificial intelligence, bleeped. “Yes, I did, milady. It came from outside. I was searching the internet to identify it. But I found nothing even close. I thought maybe it was a jaguar or mountain lion…’

It’s another page turning journey through Sally’s mysteriously misadventure filled life. What — or who — has invaded this 87-year-old spunky woman’s adobe igloo and desert compound this time? But this time the culprit is threatening to disintegrate the entire valley — and every living organism in it.

So, dear readers, what has creeped into Sally’s normally safe and quiet as a caterpillar valley?

Will Cozy Mae stay with Sally or spring back home to Texas? How will she get her precious, precocious bots back? Will the stupid criminal ever learn?

Will Sally and Rodney, along with newfound Cousin Cozy Mae and her sidekicks solve the mystery of the pyromaniacal screecher before the valley is turned to ashes?

Free review copy codes are available for US and UK. Email me here to request a code for The Screeching Shadows of Hidden Valley. Tell me for US or UK.

Your Vote, Please

By popular demand, a new series is on the horizon. The Prequel is in the cooling chamber before the edits begin.

The series stars Rodney Mankin, Sally’s AI companion. Rodney has acquired the gift of animal gab. He can talk to the animals in their own language. But there’s a problem…

The name for the series. Which of these titles grabs your attention and piques your curiosity first?

Rodney Mankin, Animal Whisperer
Rodney Mankin, Creature Whisperer
Rodney Mankin, Critter Whisperer

Here’s Rodney’s stand-in business card:

Please vote for Animal, Creature, or Critter here. Thank you so much! Watch for Rodney Mankin, ______ Whisperer in the coming months.

Yayyyy… Summer’s almost over… Only a few oppressive heat, possible monsoon days are left – could today be the last? I wish.

Also in the Thinktank

I’m also considering a ‘Sometimes I Colored Outside the Lines’ workbook for compiling your memoirs. It will be the memory prompter notebook to jot down memories pertaining to places you lived, where you went to school, and so on. With this workbook, you can go on to writing your memoirs, or just pass it on it its rough draft form.

When you fill in the blanks, it will color the picture of how you got to be who you are. And will be the workbook that I wished I’d had when I still had grandma… Does this pique your interest? Please tell me your thoughts on the idea here. Yay or Nay is good enough to give me a clue. But say more if you want to…

And Finally…

The Perils of Peppersauce is in its Review gathering price point stage before the price goes up to a normal price.

Here’s how the story goes…

Sally teaches an off-grid living class at Peppersauce Campground north of Tucson, AZ. It’s monsoon season. Javelinas, Scorpions, a black bear and a wounded mountain lion join the class without an invite.

After the gully-washer barreled in like an arena full of charging bulls, the road is washed out. They are forced to shelter in place, bodies and all, until the road can be opened. Some try to escape over the top of Mt. Lemmon but a forest fire has closed the road.

Sally, Rodney the mankin, and niece Joany must uncover the killer before they all become victims.

So, what were the final take-aways from the off-grid prep class?

Grab The Perils of Peppersauce here to get it today for 99¢.

And that’s all I have for today, dear readers. Except for the following opportunities…

You might also like…

(A shout out to Tiny Wow for the AI assist in inspiring me to smoosh together this mashup. Thank you.)

Posted on July 31, 2025July 30, 2025 by Alexie Linn

Overcoming Shiny Object Syndrome in Reading

Today’s Nifty-News Mashup

www.alexielinnauthor.com July 31, 2025

SOS in the Library!

Does this happen to you?

Ah, Shiny Object Syndrome (SOS)—the unwavering attraction to anything that glimmers with promise! For readers, it manifests as an insatiable urge to jump from one book, article, or blog post to another, often leaving incomplete plots and abandoned bookmarks in its wake. It’s the reading equivalent of that friend who can’t commit to a restaurant and ends up at five different places in one night. You know who I’m talking about!

The Origins

The term “Shiny Object Syndrome” originally sprouted in the business world, where it referred to entrepreneurs who couldn’t resist new ventures and distractions that seemed more exciting than what they were currently working on. Think of it as a raccoon wearing a business suit, distracted by anything sparkly. Over time, this concept sashayed into the reading arena, capturing those who find it hard to stick with one book long enough to see the ending.

How It Relates to Reading Habits

So how does SOS waltz into our reading habits? It’s all about that dopamine hit we get when we discover something new. With a world of information at our fingertips—thanks to the internet, e-readers, and endless book recommendations—many readers find themselves mingling with multiple texts at once. The layout of social media doesn’t aid our plight, either; a single swipe can reveal a tantalizing excerpt from yet another unread masterpiece, further pulling us down the rabbit hole of shiny distractions!

Symptoms of Shiny Object Syndrome in Readers

Frequent Changes in Reading Material

If you find yourself hopping from fiction to self-help to graphic novels quicker than a kid on a sugar rush, you might be grappling with SOS. It’s not that you’re averse to finishing books; it’s just that the next book on your list glimmers a little brighter.

Difficulty Completing Books or Articles

Another hallmark of this affliction? The infamous “I’ll finish it later” mentality. You might find books gathering dust on your nightstand, while you jump at the next highly recommended read like it’s a hot-off-the-press celebrity gossip.

Overwhelmed by Too Many Choices

Ever stare at your bookshelf or digital library and feel a sense of impending doom at having to choose your next read? Paralyzed by possibilities, you might end up scrolling endless lists of “must-reads” while neglecting that one book you’ve been meaning to tackle. Welcome to the shiny object buffet, where choices abound but decisions flee!

The Psychological Impact of Constant Distraction

Effects on Comprehension and Retention

When SOS strikes, comprehension often takes a nosedive. Jumping between texts might leave you with a pile of half-digested information, making it tough to recall what you even read a few pages ago. It’s like participating in a trivia quiz after a three-day binge of multitasking—good luck remembering any of the answers!

Emotional Toll of Fragmented Attention

The stress of juggling too many reading projects can lead to anxiety and frustration. You might start to feel like a cat chasing laser pointers, dashing in circles but never quite catching a satisfying finish. It’s a recipe for reading burnout, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself sulking over that ever-growing “to-read” list.

Impact on Critical Thinking Skills

SOS steals time for reflection, which is essential for critical thinking. Instead of delving deep into a single narrative or argument, your brain is too busy hopping around to synthesize ideas. This fragmented approach can dull your analytical skills, leaving you grasping for coherence in an ocean of information.

Strategies to Combat Shiny Object Syndrome

Set Reading Goals and Priorities

Start by crafting clear reading goals. Whether it’s to tackle five classics a year or simply to finish three books a month, having a target will ground you. Prioritize your reading list, and don’t be afraid to put that shiny new release on hold until you’ve conquered the current book on your plate.

Establish a Reading Routine

Consider establishing a daily reading routine that anchors your reading habits. Carve out dedicated time to read each day—preferably in a cozy nook where distractions are minimal. That way, you’ll be less likely to swap your book for the latest viral video.

Utilize Tools for Focused Reading

In this digital age, helpful tools abound! You might find services like reading apps or focus timers beneficial. For instance, set a timer for 25 minutes of concentrated reading, followed by a 5-minute break—often referred to as the Pomodoro Technique. It’s like training for your reading endurance, and who doesn’t want to be a marathon reader? Is there a prize for a reading marathon?

So, whether you’re a casual page-turner or an aspiring literary marathoner, keeping SOS at bay will enhance your reading experience. After all, the joys of reading lie not just in the stories we chase but in the ones we actually finish.

And, lest your To-Be-Read list become less daunting, here’s three get them now before their almost giveaway prices are gone titles…

alexielinnauthor.com — 50% off Audiobook!

Ends Today!
Now is your best chance to find my entire ebook collection for a promotional price at @Smashwords as part of their Annual Summer/Winter Sale! Find my books and many more

You might also like…

(A shout out to Tiny Wow for the AI assist in inspiring me to write this post. Thank you.)

Posted on July 17, 2025July 9, 2025 by Alexie Linn

Navigating Life’s Changes: The Constants We Treasure

Today’s Nifty News/Blog Mashup

www.alexielinnauthor.com Thursday, July 17, 2025

What does the phrase “everything changes but it all stays the same” mean?

The phrase suggests that while external circumstances and environments may undergo significant transformation, there are underlying principles, values, or aspects of life that remain constant. It reflects the duality of change and stability in human experience.

Ah, change—everyone’s favorite word when it comes to discussing everything from the weather to relationships – or anything we don’t like. Ironically, while we’re all busy trying to embrace the new, there’s a stubborn undercurrent of constancy that keeps pulling us back into familiar waters. It’s like trying to stand still in a river; even if you refuse to take a step, the current will keep rushing around you. So, what gives?

Change and Constancy

Change is the colorful, chaotic cousin of life—ever present, often unwelcome, and occasionally exhilarating. It’s the process of making something different, whether that’s in our personal lives or the broader world. On the flip side, constancy is the reliable friend who shows up with pizza at 2 AM; it represents stability, familiarity, and the things that don’t waver, despite the shifting sands around them.

In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven society, change seems to be occurring at breakneck speed. New apps shoot to fame overnight, fashion trends come and go like the seasons, and social norms evolve faster than you can say “vintage.” However, amidst all this whirlwind of transformation, certain constants persist—a yearning for human connection, a desire for meaning, and a need for routine.

Key Milestones

Looking back at history, we can see some significant turning points that have altered the course of human existence. From the invention of the wheel to the Industrial Revolution, and then to the digital age, each milestone has sparked waves of change. Yet, despite these seismic shifts, humanity has retained core elements—our need for community, storytelling, and innovation. Think of history as a roller coaster: exhilarating drops and spectacular loops, but you still find yourself back in the same car with the same friends by the end of the ride.

The Constant

Ironically, while we often resist change, it is one of life’s few certainties. Every sunrise brings a new day, every season brings its own rhythm, and with each passing moment, we are constantly evolving—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Embracing change is not just about survival; it’s about thriving in an ever-shifting universe. It’s a comforting irony: while everything changes, the act of change itself remains our true constant, nudging us along the path of growth and discovery.

Media and Communication

The media landscape has shifted dramatically over the past few decades. Gone are the days of waiting for the evening news; now we scroll through social media feeds for updates, and podcasts have become the new radio. Yet, despite these rapid changes in how we consume information, the core principles of storytelling and information dissemination remain unchanged. People still crave connection, drama, and insights; it’s the medium that evolves while the essence remains the same.

The Retail Landscape

Retail is another prime example of an industry undergoing metamorphosis. Brick-and-mortar stores once ruled the world, but online shopping has swooped in like a superhero, changing the retail game forever. However, at the heart of this transformation, the reasons people shop remain constant—whether for pleasure, necessity, or the thrill of finding a bargain. We may browse online, but the excitement of a great buy transcends platforms. Retail may change, but the thrill of the hunt is here to stay.

In a world where everything appears to be in flux, recognizing the constants can help us navigate life’s changes with a sense of comfort and curiosity. Embrace the chaos; after all, it’s just part of the great dance we all participate in!

Today’s Plot Twist

In my own effort to adapt but remain the same, I’ve changed two distinct attention getters with this book… Ruby, the Haunted. I changed the cover to pique you, the hunter’s, curiosity and I’ve lowered the price temporarily to excite the bargain hunter in you. I also made it available in Kindle Unlimited for all you wonderful routine page turners. And yes, I do ask something from you. (It’s a constant, right?) Here it comes… at minimum, a positive star rating but a short review is welcome, too.

It’s an interesting and entertaining story. I know. I wrote it. Here’s what it’s about:

‘What would you do if a spooky young woman is creeping out all your prospective buyers, spiriting them away? But her only sin is her determination to satisfy the spirit that’s jerking her around. Her eerie looks make matters worse.

Big, beautiful, flaming red-haired Madeline, the ranch sales agent, was faced with Ruby, the spooky young woman. Ruby is going to cost Madeline her job if she doesn’t get her removed. Here’s what Madeline did…

She texted Joan, the rebel life coach, with ‘HELP!’. ‘Pack your mightiest ghost-busting gear and COME NOW!’

Joan, Jenny (Joan’s sometimes sidekick who doesn’t go anywhere without her six-shooter), and Patches (the rescued polka-dot chihuahua), high-tail it to Deming, New Mexico just in time. That is, just in time to sharpen their cloak-and-dagger skills, attempt to outsmart the political mob world, and be faced with Jenny’s old nemesis once again.‘

Sound interesting? It is. Here’s the new cover – what do you think?

And here’s the link to get the eBook now for 99¢… Where else can you snag a great escape novella for less than a dollar?

Happy Reading. P.S. Don’t forget to rate the read when you’re done! Thank you.

You might also like…

(A shout out to Tiny Wow for the AI assist in inspiring me to write this post. Thank you.)

Posted on June 26, 2025June 22, 2025 by Alexie Linn

Romance vs. Romanticy: Understanding Key Differences

Romance or Romanticy? What’s the Difference?

In the vast landscape of literature, the genres of romance and romanticy offer readers enchanting escapes into worlds filled with love, passion, and adventure. While both genres share the common thread of romantic relationships, they diverge in their storytelling approaches and thematic elements.

The primary difference lies in their elements: romance typically focuses on realistic relationships and emotional connections, while romanticy incorporates fantastical or magical elements, creating a blend of romance and adventure in imaginative settings.

Romance novels tend to focus on the emotional connection between characters, often grounded in reality, whereas romanticy incorporates fantastical elements that elevate love stories into extraordinary realms.

This article aims to explore the nuances of each genre, helping readers discover which one resonates with their personal tastes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of contemporary love stories or an adventurer seeking magical romance, understanding the distinctions between romance and romanticy can enrich your reading experience and guide you to your next favorite book.

The Evolution of Romantic Literature
Romantic literature has a rich history that can be traced back centuries, where star-crossed lovers and heart-wrenching dilemmas reigned supreme. From the classic tales of Jane Austen and the Brontë sisters to the contemporary heroes and heroines of today, romance has always been about the emotional connection between characters—think of it as the ultimate will-they-won’t-they situation!

As society has evolved, so have the stories we tell, giving rise to an exciting new subgenre: romanticy, where love meets the fantastical. It’s like adding glitter to a perfectly good cupcake—because who doesn’t want a sprinkle of magic while falling in love?

Why Genre Matters in Storytelling
Genres are more than just labels; they’re like the friendly neighborhood signs that guide you through the vast landscape of literature. They help readers find what they’re in the mood for—whether that’s a swoon-worthy love story or a whimsical adventure tinged with romance. By understanding the distinctions between genres, you can make more informed choices about what to read (and what to avoid, because nobody wants to accidentally pick up a 1,000-page historical epic when you’re looking for a lighthearted love story!). Plus, knowing your genre helps storytellers craft their narratives and fulfill reader expectations. Think of it as your very own GPS for the literary realm!

Characteristics of Romance Novels
Romance novels are like the reliable best friend you call when you’re in need of a happy ending. At their core, these stories focus on the relationship between the main characters, typically leading to a satisfying resolution. They often feature deep emotional exploration, tension, and chemistry that will have you rooting for the couple (and perhaps squealing a little, too). Expect heartfelt confessions, dramatic misunderstandings, and the occasional eye-roll-worthy love triangle. But fear not; there’s always a guaranteed happily-ever-after (or HEA for the acronym aficionados out there)!

Common Tropes in Romance
While romance is diverse, certain tropes pop up like dandelions in spring—think of them as the bread and butter of the genre. You’ve got the classic enemies-to-lovers scenario, where two feuding characters find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. Then there’s the friends-to-lovers trope, perfect for those who love the idea of pining after the person you’ve known forever (awkward moments included!). Don’t forget about the ever-popular “fake relationship” trope, where two characters pretend to be an item for various reasons, often leading to the realization that they might just be perfect for each other after all. You see, tropes are the delicious seasoning that adds flavor to your romantic dishes!

What Sets Romanticy Apart?
So, what’s this romanticy thing all about?

Picture a cozy evening where you curl up with a book that has all the heart-fluttering elements of romance, but with a twist of magic, fantasy, or the surreal. Romanticy merges the excitement of romance with the limitless possibilities of imagination. Whether it involves mythical creatures, parallel universes, or spellbinding quests, romanticy takes readers beyond the constraints of reality, allowing them to explore love in ways they couldn’t in traditional romances. It’s basically romance with a magical topping—like adding whipped cream to a hot cocoa!

The Role of Fantasy Elements in Romanticy
Fantasy elements in romanticy are like the sprinkles on your cupcake—they may be small, but they bring a whole lot of joy!

These elements serve to heighten the stakes and deepen emotional connections. Imagine navigating a magical portal only to find out that your soulmate is a dragon shifter—or that your heartthrob is the reluctant heir to a powerful kingdom. Such fantastical twists can work wonders for plot development and character arcs.

Romanticy allows for exploration of love in various dimensions, literally and figuratively, all while keeping the core focus on heartwarming (or heart-wrenching) romantic bonds that can flourish against any backdrop.

Key Differences Between Romance and Romanticy

Plot Structure and Conflict Resolution
At a glance, romance and romanticy might seem like two peas in a sentimental pod, but when it comes to structure and conflict resolution, they take different paths.

In traditional romance, the plot typically revolves around the emotional journey of the couple, often resolving conflicts grounded in relatable hurdles—miscommunication, trust issues, and the ever-dreaded ex-lover resurfacing.

Romanticy, meanwhile, usually layers its romantic storyline with fantasy-driven plot twists and world-building that can complicate conflicts uniquely. Characters might face external threats like an ancient curse or an impending war, adding a whole new level of urgency to their romance.

Character Development and Relationships
Character growth and relationship dynamics also differ between the two genres.

In romance, character arcs often hinge on personal development—those moments of self-discovery, acceptance, and love that lead to transformation.

In romanticy, however, while personal growth is still key, the fantastical elements can push characters to confront challenges that fundamentally alter their identities or destinies. Plus, relationships often explore deeper themes, such as destiny, sacrifice, and the power of love transcending time and space.

So, whether you’re looking for emotional depth or an epic love story with magical overtones, both genres have something to offer—just make sure you pick the right one for your reading adventure!

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge to navigate the worlds of romance and romanticy, go forth and choose your next literary journey! Happy reading! Romance or Romanticy? Which Genre is for You?

Recommendations: Best Reads in Romance and Romanticy

Top 5 Romance Novels to Consider
1. **“The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang** – A heartwarming romance with a twist, where an autistic woman hires a male escort to help her with love.
2. **“Beach Read” by Emily Henry** – Two authors in a creative rut swap genres for the summer; hilarity and sparks ensue!
3. **“Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston** – A delightful tale of political love, royal shenanigans, and a whole lot of humor.
4. **“The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne** – Office rivals turned lovers—because who can resist the tension?
5. **“It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover** – A powerful and emotional read that dives deep into love’s complexities.

Must-Read Romanticy Titles
1. **“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas** – A beautiful blend of love, fae, and epic battles.
2. **“The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black** – A tale of political intrigue in the treacherous world of faeries, where love is just another weapon.
3. **“Serpent & Dove” by Shelby Mahurin** – A witch and a witch hunter forced to marry? Pure chaos, with a side of sizzling romance.
4. **“An Enchantment of Ravens” by Margart Rogerson** – Stunning artwork and a love that blurs the lines between worlds.
5. **“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern** – While not strictly romance, the love story here is mesmerizing and unforgettable.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Genre

Reflecting on Your Preferences
At the end of the day, the best genre for you is the one that makes you feel something—whether it’s the butterflies of attraction or the thrill of adventure accompanied by a dash of romance. If you’re drawn to heartfelt connections, dive right into romance. But if you yearn for fantastical escapades with a side of love, go ahead and embrace romanticy.

Explore Both Genres
Why limit yourself? Reading is an adventure in itself, and genres are merely suggestions. Don’t be afraid to dip your toes in both romance and romanticy—the world is full of stories waiting to sweep you off your feet. After all, who doesn’t love a little magic with their love story?

In the romance genre, authors like Nora Roberts, Julia Quinn, and Jennifer Crusie are well-known for their engaging love stories. For romanticy, authors such as Sarah J. Maas, Holly Black, and Leigh Bardugo are celebrated for their captivating narratives that intertwine romance with fantasy.

But if you’re a died in the wool cozy mystery aficionado, I have 2 NEWSFLASHES for you…

The first one is that Audiobooks.com is having a sitewide 50% off sale. That means today you can grab ‘The Price of Luck: a Pawsome Conundrum’ audiobook for about $2.50! Closer to a steal than a deal.

A golden retriever pup; a winning lottery ticket; and a gutsy old woman. What could possibly go wrong?

When Charlemagne (the pup) vanishes to uncover a lottery ticket alongside the road, Sally embarks on a tangled quest to reunite the ticket with its rightful owner. But time is ticking, and a mysterious, determined thief is hot on her trail.

Will Sally and Joan crack the case before the ticket – or she — expires? Should she just cash it in and keep it for herself? What’s an 87-year-old spunky woman to do?

What would you do? CLICK HERE FOR THE DEAL or CLICK HERE FOR A FREE REVIEW COPY

The second piece of news is that Book 16 of the Sally the Loner series, ‘Too Many Bodies and a Burro’, is now available in audiobook.

Roadtrip! Join Sally and Rodney on their first ‘vacation’ road trip ever. A road trip with a purpose. A threefold purpose.

Get Sally off the place for more than a day after the infamous ransacking that she came home to. The last time she worked the summer job up north.
Document Rodney’s heritage. And
Locate and photograph Sally’s great great Grandpa Forester’s landing place in the United States.

Even with all the security measures in place, is Sally’s place secure enough? Will Rodney get to see the lab the first microchip was built in? Which grandpa is that, anyway? And what about grandma? Can they get to her birth-lab as well?

Will Sally finally unravel the mystery of great great grandma Rachel’s many surnames when they married. Why did she and grandpa have to escape Texas to the mild Pacific Northwest? Is the threat still there?

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE AUDIOBOOK or CLICK HERE FOR A FREE REVIEW COPY

Both stories are narrated by none other than the Queen of Voices, Schann Stewart. And for you valued reviewers… note that free review copies are available.

AND You might also like…

(A shout out to Tiny Wow for the AI assist in inspiring me to write this post. Thank you.)

Posted on May 15, 2025May 12, 2025 by Alexie Linn

Why Content Quality Trumps Grammar Rules

What’s more important? Grammar or Content?

I just read a book that took me on a page-turning emotional roller coaster. Was the writing grammatically, correct? I have a vague memory of a few stumbling blocks that I had to slow down my reading to get the gist, but I don’t remember what they were. Because the story, the content, was that good. Did I ding the stars I gave for this review over a couple of unremarkable slowdowns?

Yes, grammar serves as the backbone of effective communication, providing the rules and structure necessary for clarity and coherence in writing. But is one invisible quotation mark going to spoil the entire story?

Judging from the book I gobbled up like a starving puppy, quality content goes beyond grammar, encompassing engaging, insightful, and relevant information that grabs the reader and keeps tugging.

A great story has the ability to inspire, educate, or entertain, leaving a lasting impact on readers and establishing credibility and authority in your writing.

Content is king, and engaging content is like the crown jewels. It’s not just about throwing together words; it’s about capturing your audience’s interest and keeping them hooked from start to finish.

But grammar tools are like spell-check on steroids – they help polish your writing and catch those pesky errors you might miss. Embrace these tools to level up your grammar game.

It’s true. Balancing engaging content with proper grammar is like juggling flaming swords – tricky, but so rewarding. Keep your content exciting while upholding grammar standards to create a winning combination.

Remember, it’s not about choosing sides – it’s about striking the perfect balance. I’ve never slapped a good book closed because of a glitch. That would probably have resulted in no reading for me. Nothing and nobody is perfect. Not even me, this computer I write on, or these pesky gnats that I smoosh eventually.

In conclusion, while the debate between grammar and content may persist, it is evident that both elements are indispensable in effective communication.

To do your best:

Let your manuscript cool for more than a couple of days.
Read it slowly the last time through.
Read it slowly one more time after it has cooled again… and publish.

The book I couldn’t put down? Here it is:

The inspiring, true story of Anne Dodds.

When her husband passed away after a long, trying illness, Annie Dodds was forced to sell almost everything to settle his estate.

Homeless, with little money, she wondered if it might be time to pursue a decades-old dream of living a quiet, self-sufficient life alone, off-grid. One day, when her son told her he knew of an old house on fifty acres, she knew it was time.

Feeling empowered and prepared by having read so much over the years, she loaded her belongings into the back of her pickup truck. But as she pulled into the driveway that first day, she could not imagine the challenges she would face, the obstacles she would overcome, the self-doubts she would master, and the soul-strengthening peace and contentment she would find living in a rundown old home on fifty acres of country heaven.

5-Stars! – An awesome page-turner that took me on an emotional roller coaster ride page after page. Here’s the Amazon link for eBook, Print, and Audiobook.

You might also like…

(A shout out to Tiny Wow for the AI assist in inspiring me to write this post. Thank you. Also…some links may be affiliate links.)

Posted on February 6, 2025February 2, 2025 by Alexie Linn

Attention Cozy Mystery Lovers! Call to Action…

Attention Cozy Mystery Readers! A call to Action…

Could you use a free cozy mystery break in your busy life? Would you consider a free book in exchange for a quick, easy, and enlightening review a fair exchange?

Why should you take 2 minutes out of your day to leave a review?

Reviews are like breadcrumbs in the forest of literature – they guide lost readers to hidden gems and help authors navigate the maze of publishing. Your opinion matters more than you think.

Authors love reviews like Poirot loves his mustache – they show appreciation and help them understand what readers enjoy. It’s a beautiful cycle of mystery-solving and tea-sipping camaraderie.

And, in case you wondered, your review doesn’t just disappear into the vast abyss of the internet – they can have more impact than a magnifying glass on a suspicious footprint.

How can my feedback help the author and other readers?

Constructive criticism is like serving a detective a clue to crack the case, while destructive comments are more like planting a red herring to throw them off. Be kind, specific, and remember, even Miss Marple could use some pointers now and then.

How do I write my review for social media and other platforms?

So, you’ve just finished a cozy mystery that kept you up past your bedtime, and now you’re ready to spill the tea in a review. Here are a few tips to make your review shine brighter than a detective’s flashlight in a dark alley.

Think of your review as a teeny-tiny mystery novel itself – it needs a solid plot (summary), engaging characters (your insights), and a satisfying conclusion (recommendation). Bonus points for adding a dash of humor.

It’s that simple. Here’s an excerpted example of a 5-star review of ‘The Golden-Brown Robberies’:

‘Joany the Rebel and Sally the Loner are back in action and on the case again. The desert seems to attract folks with dark drives and motives. As new threats and “protections” enter the neighborhood, things get tricky… I love their feistiness, and the exceptional critter companions.’

As you can see… it’s a piece of cake… or as easy as pie…

Are you hungry for the book break and to share your thoughts?

‘Sally the Loner Meets the Sourdough Kid’ is ready and waiting for you to cozy up with and post your review. The link below will give you easy access and prompts to post your review on several platforms at one time. SCORE!