Hello from my desk...

Where I’m marveling at the fact that it’s not only May, but very nearly the end of May.

Wasn’t it just the beginning of Spring?

Maybe I’m startled because it’s nearly time for my new novel, Murder Most Delicious, to be published. In fact, it will be published next week. Even after all this time writing fiction, publishing a novel is a strange experience for me, a little like stepping out onto a stage after spending the past few years in a cave meditating. You’ve got to comb your hair, put on your public face, let your eyes get used to the bright lights and explain yourself. Why have you written this novel? What inspired it? Why on earth would anyone write a novel anyway?

I have mentioned my feelings about all this in previous missives, but I’ll say here that writing a novel is an extreme act of faith. You never know what’s going to happen. It may find readers who understand the characters and connect with the world. Or not. And so here I am again, hoping that my readers will find something welcoming and beautiful in what I’ve done.

One thing is for sure: This novel is a departure for me. It’s a classic murder mystery set in Paris that features lots of food, intrigue, gossip, and friendship. It celebrates slowing down, spending time to enjoy the simple things in life: friendship, a delicious meal, the pleasures of Paris.

To celebrate the publication, Mystery and Thriller Maven Sara Divello, in conjunction with the legendary independent bookstore Murder by the Book, created a pre-order campaign.

I was delighted to be selected as the first author featured in the new Mystery and Thriller Mavens Pre-Order Campaign series, which grew out of Sara DiVello’s renowned author interview platform created in collaboration with the woman-owned independent bookstore Murder by the Book.

If you order a copy of Murder Most Delicious from Murder by the Book, you’ll get a signed bookplate, my secret recipe for my canelé de Bourdeaux (see below!), a wine and cheese pairing menu, and the knowledge that you will not only get a copy of a delicious summer mystery, but you’ll be supporting an independent bookseller.

And if this doesn’t tempt you, let me share some of the prepublication reviews that have come in!

Murder Most Delicious was chosen as one of the Los Angeles Times Best Summer Books. In Paula Woods’ review, she says: “… this cozy read blends a clever plot with the author’s evocative descriptions of Parisian food, wine and community reminiscent of Julia Child’s My Life in France. C’est Magnifique!”

And Jordy’s Book Club has chosen Murder Most Delicious as one of his Most Anticipated Summer Reads!

Thank you for being here with me. I always love hearing from you, so if you’re reading something interesting or just want to say hello, send me a note.

Yours,
Danielle