Cozy November: THE MAGGIE HOPE SERIES by Susan Elia MacNeal

Today please welcome Beth from Beth's Book-Nook Blog, who's here to dish on one of her favorite cozy mystery series, The Maggie Hope Series by Susan Elia MacNeal. She even had a chance to interview MacNeal about the series! Take it away, Beth.

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Today I was ask to do a guest post for BOOK BLOGGERS INTERNATIONAL, so I’m thrilled to be here to write about one of my very favorite genres: cozy mysteries!

I’m a huge fan of cozy mysteries — those fun reads that catch you and draw you in, but are never too scary or violent or cruel. I’m also a big fan of mysteries that take place long ago. The MAGGIE HOPE series by Susan Elia MacNeal is a wonderful series of novels, following the adventures of Maggie Hope, a WWII code breaker and British government worker. Maggie has all sorts of interesting things happen to her, all the while dealing with blossoming (and withering) romances, friends and relationships with interesting people, a unique family situation that could call for a flow chart while reading, and her own beloved cat.

The first book in the series is called MR. CHURCHILL’S SECRETARY. Here’s the overview from Penguin Books:

ABOUT MR. CHURCHILL’S SECRETARY

For fans of Jacqueline Winspear, Laurie R. King, and Anne Perry, Mr. Churchill’s Secretary captures the drama of an era of unprecedented challenge—and the greatness that rose to meet it. 

London, 1940. Winston Churchill has just been sworn in, war rages across the Channel, and the threat of a Blitz looms larger by the day. But none of this deters Maggie Hope. She graduated at the top of her college class and possesses all the skills of the finest minds in British intelligence, but her gender qualifies her only to be the newest typist at No. 10 Downing Street. Her indefatigable spirit and remarkable gifts for codebreaking, though, rival those of even the highest men in government, and Maggie finds that working for the prime minister affords her a level of clearance she could never have imagined—and opportunities she will not let pass. In troubled, deadly times, with air-raid sirens sending multitudes underground, access to the War Rooms also exposes Maggie to the machinations of a menacing faction determined to do whatever it takes to change the course of history. 

Ensnared in a web of spies, murder, and intrigue, Maggie must work quickly to balance her duty to King and Country with her chances for survival. And when she unravels a mystery that points toward her own family’s hidden secrets, she’ll discover that her quick wits are all that stand between an assassin’s murderous plan and Churchill himself. 

In this daring debut, Susan Elia MacNeal blends meticulous research on the era, psychological insight into Winston Churchill, and the creation of a riveting main character, Maggie Hope, into a spectacularly crafted novel.

There are currently six Maggie Hope books – with THE QUEEN’S ACCOMPLICE being the latest one (all reviewed on my blog: http://www.drbethnolan.wordpress.com).

DESCRIPTION: Spy and code-breaker extraordinaire Maggie Hope returns to war-weary London, where she is thrust into the dangerous hunt for a monster, as the New York Times bestselling mystery series for fans of Jacqueline Winspear, Charles Todd, and Anne Perry continues. 

England, 1942. The Nazis’ relentless Blitz may have paused, but London’s nightly blackouts continue. Now, under the cover of darkness, a madman is brutally killing and mutilating young women in eerie and exact re-creations of Jack the Ripper’s crimes. What’s more, he’s targeting women who are reporting for duty to be Winston Churchill’s spies and saboteurs abroad. The officers at MI-5 quickly realize they need the help of special agent Maggie Hope to find the killer dubbed “the Blackout Beast.” A trap is set. But once the murderer has his sights on Maggie, not even Buckingham Palace can protect the resourceful spy from her fate.

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I never grow tired of Maggie adventures and I find Susan’s research to be startlingly in depth and on target.

I recently had the opportunity to ask Susan MacNeal a few questions. I am friends with her on Facebook and enjoy her posts (we actually have sons the same age with similar interests as well). Susan was gracious enough to send me some insider info that I can share with you readers about how she came to write about Maggie Hopeand her adventures.

1) How did you come up with the idea for Maggie Hope and the series?

Actually, I can thank the Muppets for the Maggie Hope series! Let me explain—my husband is a puppeteer for Sesame Street and the Jim Henson company, and he starred as Bear in the Disney Channel show Bear in the Big Blue House. Well, it was huge in London, so we got to travel there.
Our first night, we met a friend at a pub and he very kindly brought a copy of Time Out London and flipped it open to an ad for the Churchill War Rooms, saying, “Despite what you Yanks might think, World War II didn’t start with Pearl Harbor. Maybe you should go and take a look.”
Considering myself challenged, I set out the next day, through a horrible snow storm (I’m from Buffalo, so it didn’t slow me down).
The museum, set in the underground, concrete-ceiling-protected bunker from which Winston Churchill and his staff ran World War II, looked much as it did during the war. Walking the same hallways that the Prime Minister himself trof was awe-inspiring. And it was a catalist for writing the book. I knew I had to write about the people of the War Rooms, a woman working in the War Rooms—and specifically a young woman, working as a secretary, in the War Rooms.

2) How did you research each novel (as they are meticulously researched!)?

Well, I love to travel to the places in question and do as much first-hand research as I can. I also love to talk to people who lived through World War II. I was privledged to correspond with Mrs. Elizabeth Layton Nel, who was one of Churchill’s wartime secretaries. And one of my friends and editors is a woman who lived through the Blitz in London as a child. Then there are books, of course (first person accounts are best), documentaries, and newspapers and magazines from the time. I love to research!

3) How many books do you plan to have in the series?

Well, THE QUEEN’S ACCOMPLICE (Maggie Hope #6) is just out and made the USA Today- and Publishers Weekly-bestseller lists, as well as a finalist in Goodreads Best Books of 2016 best mystery/thriller catagory. I’m just now finishing up THE PARIS SPY, the next book in the series, slated for publication in summer ’17. And I’m under contract for books #8 and #9 with Penguin Random House. Love writing these books and have lots and lots of stories to tell!

THANK YOU, Susan, for answering my questions!

The Maggie Hope titles are:

• Mr. Churchill’s Secretary
• Princess Elizabeth’s Spy (my favorite!)
• His Majesty’s Hope
• The Prime Minister’s Secret Agent
• Mrs. Roosevelt’s Confidante
• The Queen’s Accomplice

All available from Penguin Random House Books!

Thank you for letting me guest post today at Book Bloggers International. Please stop by my blog at Beth’s Book-Nook Blog: http://www.drbethnolan.wordpress.com or find me on Twitter at @BethsBookBlog and on Litsy at BethsBookBlog!

Cozy November: Cozy Mysteries From Kirrin Island To Gaborone, Botswana

Today please welcome Uma from Books, Bags, Burgers. She's talking about her favorite cozy mysteries of all time. Take it away, Uma!

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As a kid, books were my best companions and they still are! Being the only child, I spent most of my time at home reading books. My favourite genres of the moment always vary. Last month I devoured science fiction and horror like crazy and now I’m chin deep in Dark Fantasy but there is one genre I can read any day regardless of my current favourite genre – cozy mysteries! Today am gonna share with you all my favourite cozy mysteries through the years.

I first read Enid Blyton books 13 years ago and I still feel all wrapped up in warmth and comfort when I read her books. The delicious food that the Famous Five eat on Kirrin Island, the amazing disguises that Fatty puts on(The Five find-outers) and the cozy shed where the Secret Seven hold their meetings will forever be a part of my imaginary world.

Five Run Away Together (The Famous Five #3)

This particular Famous Five story is my favourite as it is not just a pretty intriguing mystery but also a beautiful story of friendship and family. This book in a simple manner shows the strong friendship that exists among the cousins.

I read my first Nancy Drew mystery in sixth grade and Nancy became my idol. I wanted to be like her and solve mysteries. I wanted to be part of the well balanced trio (Nancy, Bess and George). While the Nancy Drew Files were a bit serious, the Nancy Drew: Girl Detective series were the perfect fun mysteries to curl up with on a monsoon day!

Intruder (Nancy Drew: Girl detective #27)

This mystery is one of my favourites as it has a Jane Austen themed Tea party and lost fortunes! Doesn’t that sound like such a good, old fashioned mystery? I remember really wanting to eat the tarts that Mrs.Fayne prepares for the tea party!

Throughout my High School years I loved the mysteries that Agatha Christie created. While my favourite character of Agatha Christie’s is Hercule Poirot, her ‘cozy mystery’ character is definitely Miss Marple! The kindly old lady who uses the nuances in human nature to solve seemingly unsolvable mysteries.

The Moving Finger (Miss Marple #4)

This story is one of my favourite Miss Marple stories. It is slightly different from the rest of the series in that Miss Marple is present only for a short time in the story. She comes into the story towards the end and solves the mystery with ease. This book shows how human nature is such a giveaway for people’s actions.

More recently I got to see author Alexander McCall Smith at a literary fest and really loved his talk. I bought the first book in the series ‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’ (and got it signed by him by the way!!) and ended up reading it in one sitting. It’s in this beautiful place called Gaborone in Botswana where we meet Mma Ramotswe and many other endearing characters!

In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency #6)

This is such a simple story that made my heart feel all warm and fuzzy. The characters are endearing and interesting and while the mystery is not a thrilling one with chases and danger, it’s realistic and well...cozy.

Some Cozy Mysteries on my TBR

Irish Creme Killer by Summer Prescott

Homicide in Hardcover by Kate Carlisle

Black Cat Crossing by Kay Finch

Witch is Where it All Began by Adele Abbott

Thank you Tasha for having me at Book Bloggers International today!

Feel free to visit my blog Books. Bags. Burgers. for Book reviews, Author Interviews, Excerpts and more!

Featured Blogger: Melanie of Melanie's Diary

Today please welcome Melanie, who blogs at Melanie's Diary.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

I've always been big on keeping a diary, and blogs these days are like the modern version. Of course, my mom is reading it this time, but that's okay.

How long have you been blogging?

I started back with Xanga. That would be 2005, I think. It was a lot of fun and a great way to keep up with my friends, but because it was such an open diary, sometimes I'd say too much and caught some backlash with that. You learn as you go.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

In between book reviews, I'll write about any damn thing. I went to Central Park, or had a vacation in the Middle East, or I found a doll from my childhood I'd put away and now I'm awash in memories. Anything.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

As far as reading/reviewing goes, I'm open to almost any genre. I love a story with some suspense, but I also like biographies and historic novels (like Dickens or L.M. Montgomery). I'm also reading a few comic book series that I like to write about from time to time.

Every blogger feels pressure at some point. What's something you feel pressured to do or not do on your blog? How do you deal with it?

I feel very pressured to tackle "important topics" like mental health or sexual harassment or the rights of one group or another. It gets so heavy and opens the door for people to vehemently disagree. I just want to write about something I love. Bloggers who do tackle important topics are writing about causes they love, and they should absolutely do that, but it's not right for me to pretend to be passionate about something I just agree with.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

I'm all for it. I've bought used books where previous owners have written notes. Some of them are interesting (and some people can't underline a text without crossing it out). For me, it's a great way to help collect my thoughts, especially on a second or third read through. 

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

I love book covers so much. There have been times where I would read something solely based on the cover without even reading the blurb on the back (I'm not a fan of back blurbs).

To DNF or not to DNF?

Life is short, you know? If I'm not feeling a book (or movie, or experience, etc), I don't feel obliged to finish. The few times I have pushed through a book I wasn't into has never once been a positive experience.

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

I would love to see Prince Edward Island (from Anne of Green Gables fame). That series was a big part of my childhood.

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

Most people know I write my own books, so we'll count that as a hobby. I also love to travel, I love trying new, weird food (like brains or haggis). I keep my inner child alive by getting my dolls out. And who can avoid that classic favorite: watching TV. There are stories on TV, so I'm not sorry.

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Thank you for joining us today, Melanie! 

Remember to check out Melanie's blog, Melanie's Diary, 

and leave a comment or question.

Review: A SCANDAL IN BOHEMIA by Arthur Conan Doyle

A Scandal in Bohemia introduced one of the most intriguing and iconic of all the secondary characters in Sherlock Holmes' world, Irene Adler. Here with a review of the short story is Maree from Life, the Universe and Cats.

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To Sherlock Holmes, she is always the woman.

So opens A Scandal in Bohemia, a Sherlock Holmes short story contained within The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.

Dr Watson is happily domesticated - married, and in civil practice, when his footsteps lead him past 221B Baker Street.

He calls in on his old friend, and finds him about to take on a case for the King of Bohemia that has the potential to cause a great deal of, well, scandal.

A few years before, the King had become involved with an opera singer of surpassing beauty - Irene Adler. Now, Miss Adler possess a photograph of the two of them together - the only proof that the relationship happened - and she's threatening to expose the King.

Enter Sherlock Holmes and his trusty sidekick and biographer, Dr Watson.

Holmes is confident that he can recover the photo and no damage will be done to the King, who is set to marry very shortly.

However, Sherlock Holmes reckoned without the resourcefulness of one Irene Adler.

A Scandal in Bohemia might only be a few pages long, but it's definitely an entertaining short, as Holmes goes to what might be considered extreme lengths to recover the King's photo, only to be outclassed at the last moment by the somewhat shadowy Miss Adler.

We don't see a lot of her in the story as a character - she's talked about, speculated about, and there are vague descriptions, so everything we know about her is filtered through the good Doctor's memory as he recounts the story.

I first read the story many years ago, as an impressionable young reader, and I've never forgotten that opening line.

It's a maybe 10-minute read, but like all good short stories, I suppose, the devil is in the details, and in the things that are not said. It's definitely worth picking up. :)

Featured Blogger: Muhammad Saad Khan of DePorridge

Today please welcome Muhammad Saad Khan, who blogs at DePorridge.

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How long have you been blogging?

A month

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I usually read YA,general fiction,classics,fantasy and sci fi.But I also read any ARC that I win/receive. 

What's one book you think everyone should read?

The Quran 

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

no

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

Both

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Hogwarts

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

Soccer and MOOCs

What's your favorite or least favorite book to movie adaptation?

The Fault in our Stars

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

Eclectic Reader

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Thank you for joining us today, Muhammad Saad Khan! 

Remember to check out Muhammad Saad Khan's blog, DePorridge, 

and leave a comment or question.

Featuring Beth from Beth's Book-Nook Blog!

Today please welcome Beth Nolan-Conners, an eclectic reader who blogs at Beth's Book-Nook Blog.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

I wanted something to show that it was all about the books I enjoy. 

How long have you been blogging?

Since 2009. It started because so many family and friends asked me to recommend a good book that I was spending a lot of time sending the same emails. As a New Year's resolution I started a book blog.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

I will read just about anything, though I don't usually review erotica. My MO is to read and review, but if I don't like a book, I don't finish it; and if I don't finish it, I don't review it. So, my blog is a pretty positive view on things. 

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I love historical fiction, regular fiction, YA, and mysteries. I will do biographies, Christian fiction, and self-help books. I love cookbooks. I try to find books that fit my moods and so I'm often reading 2 or 3 (or 4) books at once.

Every blogger feels pressure at some point. What's something you feel pressured to do or not do on your blog? How do you deal with it?

I feel that I should respond to every single request I get, even if it's just to say "no thank you". I get a lot of requests, but I think that is just common courtesy.

What's one book you think everyone should read?

I noticed that To Kill a Mockingbird is back on the bestseller list. That is probably my favorite book ever. To Set a Watchman is coming out in July, so I am guessing that this has brought a buzz to TKAM. If that makes more people read or reread that book, then great!

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Wait- writing IN books?? Like notes?? Um - no. Sticky notes if needed but I don't allow pages to get bent or dirtied or covers to get bent. People love to borrow my books because they always looks brand new (and if they return them bent up I "generously" let them keep them).

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

I love to lie on the couch or lie in bed. When my husband travels I sleep with my Kindle in the bed with me. No kidding.

Is Amazon.com the evil empire? Discuss.

While I am all for indies (I have a love affair with The Concord Bookshop), I will say that Amazon has provided a service of making books available to folks that might not have access to a bookstore or couldn't afford a list price for a book. I'm all for that.

Book shelfie time! Take a "shelfie" of your bookshelves and share it with us.

And I have lots more in other rooms!

What have you learned from other bloggers or your readers?

How to be more creative with my blog (always a challenge).

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

both

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

I recently gave kudos to The Goldfinch and several friends said they hated it.

To DNF or not to DNF?

DNF - life is too short for bad books.

What's one book that intimidates you?

The Autobiography of Mark Twain, vol. 1

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Under the Tuscun sun

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

(which is never)

• Write
• Exercise
• TRAVEL esp. to NYC, Napa, and Hawaii
• Cook
• I do a ton of community theater - act, sing, direct, produce
• I love going to Europe and Disney World

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

I thought they did a good job with The Hunger Games.

What are 3 favorite posts or reviews you've read by other book bloggers?

• Audiobook Blogger of the Year
• BEA15 Speed Dating
• Review of My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

The All-Rounder! :)

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Thank you for joining us today, Beth! Remember to check out 's blog, Beth's Book-Nook Blog, and leave a comment or question.

Featured Blogger: Irene from Mysterious Bibliophile

Today please welcome Irene, who blogs at Mysterious Bibliophile.

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How long have you been blogging?

This blog has been active for 10 months; I've previously owned other blogs on books, film, and homeschooling.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I am an eclectic reader and blogger, but my primary focus is on mystery and suspense. This genre is important to me because it connects me to my mom, who died in 2003. She was a huge mystery aficionado and wrote her master's thesis in fictional female detectives. It is also the genre I write. 

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

The recliner in our T.V. room.

What have you learned from other bloggers or your readers?

So much! Recommendations of genres, books, or films I might not have otherwise considered. Myriad ways of looking at books and films. Benefiting from being exposed to so much really terrific writing and reviewing.

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

Definitely by its lover. That said, I am a huge sucker for a gorgeous book cover, even if I'm buying it for my Kindle and won't see it anyway. I can't explain it.

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

I don't care for Wuthering Heights, which is a well-loved classic. Brooding, slightly creepy men just don't do it for me.

To DNF or not to DNF?

I definitely DNF. With so many great books out there that I'll never get a chance to read, I am way too old NOT to. :-)

What's one book that intimidates you?

Ulysses, and just about everything else by James Joyce (besides Portrait of an Artist).

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

Your responses showed you fitting into three different personalities:

Involved Reader: You don't just love to read books, you love to read about books. For you, half the fun of reading is the thrill of the chase - discovering new books and authors, and discussing your finds with others.
Serial Reader: Once you discover a favorite writer you tend to stick with him/her through thick and thin.
Eclectic Reader: You read for entertainment but also to expand your mind. You're open to new ideas and new writers, and are not wedded to a particular genre or limited range of authors.

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Thank you for joining us today, Irene! Remember to check out Irene's blog, Mysterious Bibliophile, and leave a comment or question.

Featured Blogger: Sophia from Ravens and Writing Desks

Today please welcome Sophia, who blogs at Ravens and Writing Desks.



What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

It comes from the immortal question "Why is a raven like a writing desk?" from Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. The author himself didn't give it an answer in the book, but numerous fan-made ones have been proposed, such as "Because Poe wrote on both," or "Because both have inky quills."

I chose it as my blog name because I liked the sound of it, it had a literary backstory, and because it implied ramblings about a variety of nonsense. I do ramble a lot about anything to do with literature and writing, so it sort of fit.

How long have you been blogging?

I've been blogging for one and a half years. I started in May of 2013.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

My book blog covers a lot of bases. I review all styles of books, from classics to YA, but I also talk about my adventures as a writer. There's something for everyone!

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I used to write entirely about classics - they were my first love, and still hold a special place in my heart. But this past year I was introduced into the wonders of YA and other, more contemporary reads, and so I've spread out into that area more lately.

Every blogger feels pressure at some point. What's something you feel pressured to do or not do on your blog? How do you deal with it?

Mostly, my largest pressure is from posting frequently. I really try to post at least twice a week - ideally three - but sometimes this ends up not working out. If not, I just shrug and blame college homework.

What's one book you think everyone should read?

Les Miserables. It has something for everyone - history, philosophy, action, mystery, and EXCELLENT characterization.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Depends?
Fiction books - never. Ever.
Textbooks - always. In pencil though.

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

I really do it everywhere. I've read on a snowy bus stop without issue, because I was so engrossed in the story. Though I do prefer my front-room couch or my screened in porch (weather permitting).

What have you learned from other bloggers or your readers?

I've learned to not be so academic-sounding in my reviews.

I've learned to let my voice shine through in my posts.

I've learned to read non-classics - and enjoy them, too!

I've learned that the book blogging community is infinitely larger than I ever thought. And I love it with my whole heart.

To DNF or not to DNF?

I generally don't DNF, just because I'm the kind of person who needs to finish what I started. I've only DNF'ed Dickens (not all Dickens, but some). Does that say something about me as a reader (or Dickens as a writer)?

What's one book that intimidates you?



If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?



How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

I write.
I play piano.
I catch up on homework.
I blog.
I hang out with my sister.
I sing.
I dance.
I travel.
I daydream.
I plot.
I sleep.


Thank you for joining us today, Sophia! Remember to check out 's blog, Ravens and Writing Desks, and leave a comment or question.

Now Featuring Deborah from Book Barmy!

Today please welcome Deborah, who blogs at Book Barmy.



What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

BARMY: British • informal
1. marked by spirited enjoyment
2. informal or slang term for mentally irregular Origin late 15th century

I am "barmy" about books, want to be surrounded by them, want to read everything, love all things bookish.

How long have you been blogging?

Just starting out.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

I'm trying to capture the pure delight of reading a book and then talking about it.

My reviews are informal and chatty.
I hope to make other bookish friends through my blog and share reading experiences.


What genres do you write about most, and why?

Fiction and literature are my main reading, I adore being swept into a story, falling in deep into the characters, and experience different time periods and settings.
I'm a sucker for epistolary novels and anything based on diaries real or imagined, must be the voyeur in me.
In the same vein, I read memoirs - as a way to step into someone's life and view it through their eyes.
I'm a anglophile and will read anything British or based in the UK.

Every blogger feels pressure at some point. What's something you feel pressured to do or not do on your blog? How do you deal with it?

I've started to received advance reading copies both hard-copy and electronic.
I feel the pressure to read and review those books.
My policy is I will read and review only what I want. Even if I request an ARC, and find I just can't get into the book, I won't feel obligated to read it!

What's one book you think everyone should read?

Helene Hanff's 84 Charing Cross Road
A book about the love of books and literature. Letters between a bookseller in London and a play writer in NYC - what's not to love? One of my favorites.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Very lightly in pencil - especially if I'm passing the book on to a specific friend or family member. Special passages that have meaning to both of us.

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

My reading nook (aka my happy place). 

Is Amazon.com the evil empire? Discuss.

I believe getting books into peoples hands and hearts is key - no matter the method - libraries, independent bookstores, big box stores, and Amazon all have their proper place and can survive together.

See my local independent bookstore - Green Apple - editorial in The Atlantic (http://publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/columns-and-blogs/soapbox/article/64252-don-t-ask.html)

I must admit Amazon's treatment of Hatchette was very shabby and left a bad taste in my mouth.


What have you learned from other bloggers or your readers?

I'm an avid follower of many book blogs and when the blogger's personal voice comes through in his/her reviews - the more I enjoy it!

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

Oh yes, it's shallow but I often choose books by their cover. The Hundred Foot Journey, The Goldfinch, Louise Penny's books - all beautiful covers.

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

Time and Again, by Jack Finney.

I have foisted this wonderful time travel novel on many people and few have responded with the delight I had hoped.

To DNF or not to DNF?

DNF - I give a book 50 to 75 pages audition, sometimes less. Life is too short and there are so many excellent books awaiting me.

What's one book that intimidates you?

Les Misérables - always wanted to read it, have tried many times and my eyes glaze over.
Maybe with time.

I am proud to say I finally read The Odyssey a few years ago after many attempts. 

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Hay on Wye, Wales UK
Their literature festival is in May/June every year - some year I will go.

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

I'm early-retired. So I am fortunate to have the time for my hobbies. I grow old/heritage roses (bred before 1864), have a small vegetable garden, love music of all sorts, entertaining, cooking, and traveling with my husband.

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

Time Travelers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
Great book - horrid film adaptation. 

What are 3 favorite posts or reviews you've read by other book bloggers?

Cornflower Books
My Porch
The Age of Uncertainty 

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

The All Arounder



Thank you for joining us today, Deborah! Remember to check out 's blog, Book Barmy, and leave a comment or question.

Featuring Stephanie of Cover2CoverBlog

Today please welcome Stephanie, 

who blogs at Cover2CoverBlog.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

Well it is super simple, because I am horribly uncreative with names. Reading a book cover to cover, front to back. My husband helped me pick it out. I really like it and think it is to the point and easy.

How long have you been blogging?

I have been a blogger for a little over 2 years, but it feels like forever. It really does take over your life (in a good way).

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

I tend to really enjoy the Young Adult and Middle Grade genres, and I know there are a lot of us out there but I just hope that my honesty in my reviews keeps it unique. On some very rare occasions I also have my younger sister (now 13) write reviews as well. I have a lot of younger siblings and cousins, so sharing books and reading is my passion.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

Young Adult and Middle Grade, they keep me low-stress. I work 40 hours and run my blog too, so when I read I like it to be on the lighter side and something I can bring to work to read at lunch ... so no raunchy covers...

I love YA for the drama and pseudo-romance themes and enjoy the MG adventure for the witty ways to get kids to read. I love both for the world-building that allows me to escape into other places from the comfort of my couch. 

What's your earliest memory of reading?

Oh wow! Great question. I remember a lot of them, so I am not sure which is my earliest... but I was a horrible reader in Elementary school so they had me in a special reading program that paired the younger kids up with the 5-6th graders to help up. My mentor was a girl who was awesome and she helped me learn to read without me feeling dumb. When our tutoring sessions ended she gave me a copy of The Polar Express. To this day it is still one of my favorite books and when they made the movie in 2004 I (embarrassingly enough) cried through most of it over the memory of the book and how much it has impacted my life.

What was the first book you read over and over, or the book you've reread the most?

I am really not the type to re-read books, there are just too many to get to even once! But I have re-read The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis and the Harry Potter books.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Depends on the book!

For school books --I say go for it if you can, I kept lots of notes in my college books plus post its and highlighting. They can really be helpful for studying

In my 'for fun' reading books -- only if it is an authors signature :) For my review books if I want to note something I write it down in a notebook or type it up for my review later.

What's your favorite place to read?

I have a few, most of the time it is on my couch with blankets and with my dog and my cat piled on top of me. I am also a fan of a good bubble bath and a good book - so relaxing.

Do you have any reading accessories you can't do without?

My iPad (does that count?). I use it to read. I have apps for reading all over it, plus Goodreads and Audible in case I need them to look things up. I also have my TBR list in Evernote on it to update as I read things. 

Finish the sentence: My bookshelves are...

a mess! I don't have enough shelves so they are stacked and double-stacked and I have piles all over. 

My TBR pile is...

Neverending. I am trying to be better though.

What's a book that's changed your life?

Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger, I read it as a teen and it was wonderful – it is about unrequited love and sexual awkwardness. It really had an impact and I still think it is one of the best YA books I have ever read. Highly recommend it!

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

Most recently, Weather Witch by Shannon Daleny. I was not a fan but a lot of the bloggers I follow seemed to really like it. 

To DNF or not to DNF?

When I began blogging and even as a reader, I would never DNF a book or a series for that matter. I always finished them even if I hated the next book or chapter.

Recently I have allowed myself to DNF a few books (Weather Witch included) because I could not get through them - it was painful, and reading should be enjoyable. 

What's one book that intimidates you?

Easy! A Game of Thrones and the A Song of Ice and Fire books. My husband, who is a proclaimed non-reader, has actually read them and loves them (funny because he hates reading). They scare the crap outta me, they are huge and have a huge following and I can't bring myself to read them (...yet).

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

I got: The All-Rounder

Your responses showed you fitting equally into all four reading personalities:

Involved Reader: You don't just love to read books, you love to read about books. For you, half the fun of reading is the thrill of the chase - discovering new books and authors, and discussing your finds with others.
Exacting Reader: You love books but you rarely have as much time to read as you'd like - so you're very particular about the books you choose.
Serial Reader: Once you discover a favorite writer you tend to stick with him/her through thick and thin.
Eclectic Reader: You read for entertainment but also to expand your mind. You're open to new ideas and new writers, and are not wedded to a particular genre or limited range of authors. 

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Thank you for joining us today, Stephanie! 

Remember to check out Stephanie's blog, Cover2CoverBlog, 

and leave a comment or question.

Featuring Rachel of Rach the Redhead

Today please welcome Rachel, 

who blogs at Rach the Redhead.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

It's pretty simple - just my name and my hair color!

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I mostly write about literary fiction, just because it's my favorite genre. I love the variety; there's a little bit of everything!

What's your earliest memory of reading?

I probably wasn't reading, just reciting the words I'd memorized from one of my picture books. Either way, my parents were pretty impressed! It was a book about bubblegum, I think.

What was the first book you read over and over, or the book you've reread the most?

My entire Harry Potter series is falling apart, I've reread it so much.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Sometimes; I've gotten away from it since I finished my English Degree, but occasionally I just have to.

What's your favorite place to read?

A big, cushy chair next to a window (preferably when it's raining outside).

Do you have any reading accessories you can't do without?

I technically can read without my reading glasses, but it's painful after a while.

My TBR pile is...

Always growing!

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

The All-Rounder

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Thank you for joining us today, Rachel! 

Remember to check out Rachel's blog, Rach the Redhead, 

and leave a comment or question.

Blogging Rules-Schmules with Tamara of Traveling with T

Hey ya’ll! I’m Tamara and I blog at Traveling With T (mainly about books, but other things creep on the page from time to time!) I’m so excited to be hanging out at Book Bloggers International today! Enough about me, though, and let’s get to the meat and potatoes of the post- Onward to Blogging Rules-Smchules!

Blogging Rules-Schmules

In my real life, I’m a bit of rule follower. I try not to speed down the Interstate (note: I try not to- but sometimes that Camry feels the need for speed!), I wait 30 minutes after I eat before I get in the pool, I rarely jay-walk. So, I’m not afraid of rules. I actually like rules. However, when it comes to blogging, I have been all about breaking the rules.

Let me elaborate further: When I started Traveling With T, I didn’t have this big soul-searching thought about “What do I want from my blog?” I knew what I wanted: I wanted a piece of the internet, a place where I could talk about the things that interested me. I had a vision of some sorts, but nothing concrete. That is rule 1 I broke.  In the beginning, I had an idea of running 2 blogs- one Traveling With T- that would have a hodge-podge of topics- book signings, local events, a bit of travel, etc. The other, a yet to be named blog, was going to be strictly books. But, the more I began blogging, the more I realized that I didn’t want to run 2 blogs- I wanted to talk about books at Traveling With T. So, I do. Majority of Traveling With T is about books. Other things creep on there for my discussion, but if I had to break a ratio down- I’d say Traveling With T is 95% books.

My main area where I break rules with my blog is post count per day. At first, I was a terrible blogger. I didn’t have a schedule. I wasn’t motivated. I was about to quit with the blogging when some things started changing- I felt inspired. I wanted to blog, I began seeking out content, interacting with folks and having a good time. I was still such a blogging newbie, though. I didn’t realize I could schedule my posts (seriously, happy dances happened when I figured out that gem!) I was SEO-what? I could link- link the heck out of stuff, but all that bloggy talk was like Charlie Brown’s teacher “wah-wah-wah” to me. Then, last summer, things began to change. I had found some bloggy folks I liked and was learning a bit of the behind the scenes to blogging. I was getting more views, people were sharing my posts. And this when I began to realize, breaking bloggy rules was working for me. I was marching to a beat of my own drum. I was having fun, I was learning new things and incorporating them into my bloggy routine- but I was not worrying about the rules-schmules of blogging.

I’ve taken some heat from not following the rules. I’ve had people not like it.  I’ve also had people love it- to like the variety in my posts. When I started breaking the rules, I found that was when I was most excited about blogging. At some point, in the time you blog, you are going to have decide things that work for you. Because blogging, at times, can be a solitary hobby (or job if you are making money from this.) This is when you have to go with your gut.

Today, I’m still a rule breaker (not a rebel with a cause rule breaker, more just a blogging cheerleader type person who still thinks that bottom line- blogging should be fun. If not, why bother?) Some days, there are 2 posts in the same day (there have been known to be 3). I don’t do it all the time, every day- but I do a couple of times a week. I also post daily (or at least 6 days a week). I find that, for me, having something up on the blog everyday makes me feel more productive and it gives my readers something to check out. 

I read all the advice- the tips on how to make your blog a success. The whole: Do this. Post at this time. Use these keywords. Work the heck outta social media. No, wait; take a break from social media. No, no, use social media- but only on days that end in a drink with a blogger wanting to pull their hair out. (Ok, seriously, I may jest about the last thing- but really- sometimes, after I read all these things- that is how I feel.)

My advice to you as you blog- find out what works for you. Blogging 1x a day may be your sweet spot. 2-3 times a week might work. Just remember- it’s your blog. Do what works for you and don’t be afraid to chart your own course. Just think of yourself as the Christopher Columbus of the blogging world or maybe the blogging world as the final frontier and you are Captain John Luke Picard. Go forth, bloggers, go forth! Or, in other words- #keepcalmandblogon. 

Thanks, Tamara, for sharing with us today!   Be sure to visit Tamara's Blog and to leave a comment or question!