Book Review: Promophobia

5 stars Genre: Non-fiction Promophobia An extensive collection of informative essays from Sisters in Crime members that really dive into book promotion, particularly for mystery writers. Filled with many tips and individual case studies, showcasing success…and failure. An invaluable guide for authors who want insight into marketing their work. Find more of my book ratings and reviews here. … [Read more...]

Too Much To Read!

Before I became a writer, I was a reader. An avid one. I still love reading, but I've been in a bit of a slump lately. This could be because I'm reading (or trying to!) two non-fiction books, an advance reading copy, and another novel for fun. Maybe I need to concentrate on one book at a time? It feels like I'm stuck, and I really want to replenish my pile of Goodreads reviews. Reading generally helps me gauge how I'm doing in life. If it's been a good week, I get the down time to read. When … [Read more...]

Book Review: Till Death Do Us Port

5 stars Genre: Cozy Mystery Till Death Do Us Port (March 7, 2023) A delightful book. I love the strong cast of recurring characters that Lansing uses. It’s especially fun to have mother and daughter helping each other on this one. I also appreciated the maturity and growth that happens in Parker. What’s great about this book/series is that Parker gets to be philosophical, to sort things out, and to confront her fears. The premise behind this novel—a botched wedding—was done with … [Read more...]

Book Review: The Christmas Clash

5 stars Genre: YA rom-com *Available Oct. 4, 2022 The Christmas Clash Such a cute story! I relished the setting of the suburban mall, and the vivid descriptions brought back such good memories. Peter and Chloe complement each other well. I loved diving into their different personalities—and getting to virtually enjoy the cuisines of their family restaurants. The holiday atmosphere added a special touch to the story, making it an even cozier feel-good rom-com.  Find more of … [Read more...]

Boba Tea and Mystery

I recently enjoyed an author event with the perfect title: Afternoon (Boba) Tea & Mystery. The rhyming factor is great, and what’s better than some refreshing bubble tea in the afternoon? Special thanks goes out to the Northern California chapters of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America for co-sponsoring the event. This was an offsite activity that coincided with the Bay Area Book Festival. Here is a signed copy I got of Kelly Yang’s Yes We Will: I had a fun time … [Read more...]

May 2021 Book Suggestions

I'm blogging on Writers Who Kill today and talking about books I've read or want to read by AAPI creators for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Follow along: https://writerswhokill.blogspot.com/2021/05/aapihm-book-recommendations-by-jennifer.html … [Read more...]

Authors Make Me Hungry

Who's making me hungry? That's right--authors! Check out my newest post on Chicks on the Case: https://chicksonthecase.com/2021/02/19/your-book-is-making-me-hungry/ … [Read more...]

Festive Reading

"A new challenge is near." (fortune cookie saying) Here's how I celebrated during my much-needed break from writing over these last few weeks. I read. For fun! Sometimes I like measuring my vacations by the number of books I've read. It gives me an indication of how much lovely time I spent between the pages of a book. Also, it fuels that inner competitive streak in me. (In elementary school, I once won a reading contest hands-down--and got handsomely rewarded with a gift card to a local … [Read more...]

Book Club Day!

Hi, Folks! I'm at Chicks on the Case today talking about Mimi Lee Gets A Clue. Come check it out: https://chicksonthecase.com/2020/12/11/chicks-book-club-mimi-lee-gets-a-clue-by-jennifer-j-chow/ … [Read more...]

Book Review: Real Men Knit

Real Men Knit 5 stars Genre: Contemporary romance I love the premise of this book with the Strong brothers running a yarn shop. This slow-burn romance really works with the two main leads. More than that, I really appreciated how Jackson weaves in authenticity about Harlem, the myriad obstacles facing the characters, and the strength of community.A winner of a romance, woven with sweet heat and much heart Find more of my book ratings and reviews here. … [Read more...]