Coffee Blog

Mornings on the front porch

Writing Sparkle

Welcome to book review thirty-nine of fifty-two for this year’s virtual coffee shares. I’ve picked books related to the Brewing Coffee, Twisting Words & Breaking Pencils theme—coffee, books, and puzzles.

Death by French Roast
The author is Alex Erickson
Published in October 2020
The publisher is Kensington Cozies
Available in eBook, Audiobook, Audio CD, and Mass Market (290 pages)
Cozy Craft & Hobby Mysteries | Cozy Culinary Mysteries | Cozy Animal Mysteries

This is book eight in A Bookstore Café Mystery series. I read and enjoyed the first seven, and this one also kept my interest. It starts with a surprise at the end of chapter one and continues from there. This novel looks at a historical murder, which is a pleasant change from the previous pattern.

If we were having coffee, I would show a picture of a Halloween puzzle I finished this week. It was tricky, but a fun image to work with.

I shared a puzzle image last week, too. If you are interested, you can view it at “Coffee, reviews, and psychics.”

If we were having coffee, share a photograph of my morning coffee. Sitting outside in the morning in my rocker, with a book and hot coffee, is my favourite way to start the day.

If we were having coffee, I would share that my mystery writing course has been interesting so far. It has given me the boost of inspiration that I needed to keep working on my manuscript. I have 19 chapters written in rough, and I’m writing toward the conclusion now.

By Shari Marshall – 2025

8 thoughts on “Mornings on the front porch”

  1. Hi Shari.
    I was thrilled to see that you’re taking on the challenge of creating a mystery story. Very cool!
    Life has kept me busier than expected but I’m getting some time to write but I missed that you were moving this direction.
    I’m anxious to hear more and hope that I might still be on your list for potential beta readers.
    Blessings!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi Gary!

      Yes, it’s a cozy mystery with a touch of magic because I love magic. Since it’s a new genre for me, it’s been a bit tricky to write, but it’s coming along. The mystery writing course I’m taking is the inspiration and extra knowledge I needed. I will let you know when I’m at the beta reader stage. Thank you.

      Busy can be enjoyable. I’m happy to hear from you.

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    1. Yes, it is a water view. We considered removing a few more trees, but it would take away the privacy, and we don’t want to do that.

      I’m starting a new Halloween-themed puzzle. So far, it’s been tricky.

      Happy Saturday.

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