Magical Time Of Year

I escaped the chilly Kansas City weather and spent a few days in sunny Orlando. While there, I headed outside for a couple of pleasant walks (although I was on the lookout for alligators–can’t completely relax when I think one might show up along the walking path). Also saw some interesting wildlife and foliage. Sharing those in the pics.

Back in KC, I had the chance to go to the KC Zoo and to Crown Center and watch Finding Nemo at the Coterie Theatre. Both were great outings. I recommend both!

I also had an Author Event at Trailhead Books in Raytown, MO, my original hometown. So much fun seeing friends, old and new. If you are ever in Raytown, MO, I sure hope you’ll stop by this independent bookseller, Trailhead Books, and say Hi to Angie! 

Back at home, we are getting ready for Christmas and have started our annual Christmas Tree decorating event. This is where all my grandchildren come over (ten in total!) and decorate their own tiny Christmas tree. They have so much fun deciding where to put their tree and wondering what present they will receive at Christmas. It’s one of my favorite traditions. What traditions do you have? 

BOOK NEWS

•   NEW YEARS EVE and TIMES SQUARE: The NYE Times Square Nasdaq Board will feature Kaleidoscope of Secrets on New Year’s Eve. That’s right! They will advertise my book on the most-watched billboard in Times Square, New York on New Year’s Eve! Cue the fireworks!!!

• In addition, an article featuring recommended titles for readers’ 2025 TBR list will include Kaleidoscope of Secrets. Sites that regularly feature these articles include the BBC, CNN, The Guardian, Publishers Clearinghouse, Oprah.com, and up to 1300 other websites. 

To say I’m excited might be an understatement. I’ll post pictures of the NYE Billboard after January first. STAY TUNED!!!

• And Finally–THE NEXT BOOK is on its way. Here’s a synopsis. 

Everything important to Vivienne Johnson is slipping through her fingers. Her daughter. Her marriage. Her career.

A dedicated high school teacher, Vivienne has spent twenty years building a picture-perfect life with her husband, Matthew. But when a buried curse from her past resurfaces, everything she holds dear begins to unravel.

As the school semester ends, a devastating fire in the chemistry lab claims a student’s life. Though Vivienne knows she isn’t responsible, she finds herself under scrutiny, facing disciplinary action. Meanwhile, a series of suspicious fires spreads fear through their small town—but no one seems to be connecting the dots.

With her life in ruins, Vivienne takes matters into her own hands. Suspecting her estranged brother’s return to town is no coincidence, she sets a plan in motion to unmask the arsonist. But when an arrest is made, her instincts tell her the real culprit remains at large.

After another personal loss, Vivienne plans a trip to New York to escape the chaos. Yet, before she can leave, she uncovers a shocking truth—one that leads her straight into a nightmare she could never have imagined.

Now, with no one left to trust, Vivienne must confront her darkest fears and fight for her survival. Can she use her knowledge and will to survive and expose the truth—or will the flames of deception consume everything?