It’s my favorite time of year…I get to choose my favorite cozies released in the past twelve months!  And yet, it’s the hardest thing to do, almost like looking at all of the ornaments on my tree and trying to decide which ones I like the most. Since they all belong to my kids and were gifts from my parents who have been gone for too many years, it’s a monumental task, emotional and heart-warming. Like our ornaments, each mystery I’ve featured, along with the books featured on the Cozy Corner by guest authors, has a special place on my bookshelf. Whether it be the hardback, paperback or the ebook, I tend to keep more than I should so that I can go back and reminisce about the wonderful experience. Maybe I should start a tree with book ornaments—my very own Charli Rae and Scarlet would love that in the Book Barn, don’t you think? Princess the armadillo, however, would probably root through the ornaments and knock over the tree. Goodness, but I do see a holiday novella scurrying through my brain for next year! Without further ado, I give you my favorite mysteries and blogs of 2018! Teen Drama…

I hope you and your loved ones enjoyed the festive Fourth with a bit of fun, relaxation, and a good book. Now that the fireworks are behind us, I’m afraid only the lazy dog days of summer lie ahead. Ever wonder where the familiar phrase Dog Days of Summer originated? Blame it on the ancient Romans. They called the most humid, hottest days of summer “diēs caniculārēs” or dog days. The name came about because they associated the hottest days of summer with the star Sirius, known as the Dog Star. Why? It was the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major—which translates as large dog. You know what I find myself wondering? When will these dog days of summer come to an end…doggone it! The Old Farmer’s Almanac lists the traditional timing of the Dog Days as the forty days that coincide with the sunrise of the Dog Star, July 3 through August 11. How do we enjoy our summer and survive the heat? Whether it be swinging in a shady hammock, nestling into a comfy recliner, or sprawling on a beach towel, keep your body hydrated with a cold drink and your mind refreshed with a cozy mystery….