The Vanishers by R. G. Belsky  A Paranormal Gothic Thriller – perfect for fans of Atmospheric Horror and Psychological Suspense and frankly, gulp and stress on every page, but in a nice way! Megan Foley knows she saw the little boy. So why does everyone at the perfect seaside house insist he never existed?

When Megan and her husband Patrick accept an invitation to spend the summer at a luxurious house share in Stone Beach, Connecticut, everything seems too good to be true. The rent is absurdly low. The host, Mrs. Monahan, is attentive to the point of unease. The other guests are pleasant — until they aren’t. One day, Megan sees a boy, Tommy, playing… and the next, Tommy is simply gone. Erased, as though he never existed. All the other guests at the house look at Megan blankly when she asks. One by one, the guests succumb to long hours in front of the television in a glassy trance. Patrick grows cold and distant. Something stirs in the attic. Megan alone seems immune — but for how long? Frankly, fascinating. You need a l-o-n-g train journey as you won’t want to put it down. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FYFY4SYD/ @ £0.99 instead of £3.49 – for now.

Late Checkout: A compulsive police procedural thriller (DCI Murrain Series Book 1 of 5) by Alex Walters and it’s FREE as a kindle with the paperback@ £6.99

This DCI notices things others don’t – instincts that have helped him solve even the most baffling cases. But they also come at a cost. Read book one in the shocking crime series by Alex Walters. When a woman is found murdered in a Manchester hotel, DCI Kenny Murrain is called in to lead the investigation. The crime scene raises more questions than it answers: a violent killing, yet chillingly precise. No forensics. No witnesses. No obvious motive. As more victims are discovered across the region, each bearing the same disturbing hallmarks, it becomes clear a single killer is behind them–methodical, mobile, and always one step ahead.

With pressure mounting and no clear leads, Murrain is forced to rely on the very instincts that have always set him apart. But the closer he gets, the more the case begins to unravel.This DCI notices things others don’t – instincts that have helped him solve even the most baffling cases. But they also come at a cost. Read book one in the shocking crime series by Alex Walters. I really liked this novel, very readable. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FWC6KBF4/ @ FREE

The Riviera Affair: A twisty vintage cozy mystery (The Yellow Cottage Vintage Mysteries Book 4) by J. New . Aren’t her books just lovely, and this is No 4, believe it or not, of the Yellow Cottage Mysteries. The glamour of the French Riviera quickly turns sour as Ella is caught up in an investigation with consequences on both sides of the Channel—has she finally met her match? When her mother telephones from France with news of her imminent arrest, (gasp) Ella Bridges rushes to her side—bringing along her aunt and an eccentric friend for support. But what begins as a missing person case soon spirals into murder, and Ella finds herself at the heart of a mystery far more complex than expected.

In a foreign land where she doesn’t speak the language, holds no jurisdiction and doesn’t know who to trust, Ella must draw on every ounce of her intuition and ingenuity to expose the truth. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F9FSFN9L/ @ the time limited price of £0.99

Following on – oh wow – three boxed cozy crime kindles – the gorgeous Yellow Cottage Vintage Mysteries Series (Historical Cozy Crime Box Set 1-3)by J. New . These three 1930s murder mysteries are delightfully witty, as the somewhat quirky amateur sleuth Ella Bridges finds herself entangled in all sorts mysteries set in post-WWI-era England (such an interesting time) .

An Accidental Murder – Ella is still adjusting to island life when she finds herself entangled in a chilling murder investigation. But she’s not solving it alone. A rather unusual companion offers assistance in unexpected ways. Oh, how interesting. Read it to learn more.

The Curse of Arundel Hall – A dinner at Arundel Hall contains more than a few courses, – you see, one of the dinner guests is murdered, So is it the old curse once again – or something else?

A Clerical Error – Ella Bridges faces her most challenging case yet when the village vicar dies suddenly at the May Day Fete. Goodness, that’s a bit of a downer, but our Ella is not fazed in the least and sets to work…

Buy the set here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0H46FX35L/ @ £0.99

Milly Adams is the author of the Waterway Girls trilogy https://www.amazon.co.uk//dp/B0FRN1JWMF/ @ £5.97 for all 3 kindles

Writing Ode

The story that was looking good and rapidly advancing. Had suddenly started using terms that were not quite so entrancing. This was plainly not the plan and not what I was after. Especially as the latest lines were now bereft of laughter

I sat there staring, mouthing words that may or may not work. And what of my protagonist – is he hero or is he jerk? Whilst contemplating many things, not least what happens next. I thought I’d try a different tack and be more circumspect.

But caution doesn’t sit that well with someone such as me. So, musings turned to other things, not least my G&T. I grabbed the tonic water bottle from off the upper shelf. The blasted thing was empty – not conducive to my health!

‘Well, never mind,’ I told myself. ‘I’m sure we can make do. With a slight change in proportions to make the single gin now two.’ This seemed like quite a clever plan and thus I started pouring

If nothing else, this afternoon would certainly not be boring… The drink was downed quite rapidly and tasted rather good. Which meant I had another – no thought to whether I should. Adverse effects seemed minimal, so one more did I pour

Or was it two or maybe three or could it have been four? ‘Twas then my eyes did seem to show some signs of double vision. And all at once, I started to regret my poor decision. Tonight no words would emanate from my aged, pickled head

And so, I thought, it’s time for me to head off to my bed. But not before I save my work, though useless it may be. And so my trembling fingers hovered over the myriad keys. And hit the ones I’d used before on so many occasions. To take good care of all my varied, valuable creations

With addled thoughts of nothing else but paracetamol. I wobbled out of my writing room and out into the hall. Despite my state of rapid and now painful deterioration. A worrying thought did weave its way through my intoxication

Had I pressed ‘Control’, ‘Alt’ and ‘Delete’ instead of ‘Control’ and ‘S’? This would explain my rapidly rising feeling of distress. But did I actually use the ‘Alt’ key or had I hit the ‘A’? With dire consequences, I felt myself begin to pray.

As time lurched past, I stood there in my hazy drunken stupor. And it dawned on me I’d made a somewhat major howling blooper. With ‘Control’ and ‘A’, I’d selected every word that I’d created. Then ‘Delete’ had done its work and to the bin it had migrated!

And now I stand here wondering – can I salvage all my work? Realisation dawning that it’s me that is the jerk! In all my years of scribbling and crafting dodgy rhyme. I’d never managed to delete the lot at such a crucial time

So, when you’re sat creating words and stories of great worth. Be they serious tomes of romance or little odes of mirth. Remember this sad monologue and turn your thoughts to this. Take care which keys you think you’ve hit, especially when you’re p..sed!

‘It was a strange sort of funeral without a body; but that was how it had to be, given the circumstances.’ What do you think of this as an opening sentence? Fabulous. How can one not go on reading, but trust me, as you read on, the pages will turn at speed and it is unforgiveable that the train arrives at your stop on time when you still have several chapters to go. Yes, it really is this good.

Mark McCrum was originally a travel writer and it shows in the finely drawn settings as the ‘press pack’ leave Britain for Rio de Janeiro and then onto THE Iguacu waterfall and on, and on with threats from all sides: muggers, glaciers and drunk soldiers (heavens, sounds almost the same as a research trip I took once upon a time, but that’s another story). As with all travelling groups, or in my experience at least and yours too no doubt, tensions build, some are mere irritants, but then others become more than that. On this trip, people talk, secrets are exposed one way and another, and those pesky professional relationships slide into the personal… (not that I am speaking from experience on this last situation, obviously – goodness, certainly not).

Will the same number who flew out, also fly back? Or if not, is it murder, or an accident or is everything working to a plan? Ah, no, no… Yours to discover.

I loved Death on the Press Trip, which goes to show that a press pack is pretty much like any other travelling group, as no such group is without a character that goes too far – but hopefully not to this extreme. Is this why Death on the Press Trip is so relatable? Or is it the writing, the humour, the sharp as a knife character creations, the settings, the tension?

We shouldn’t be surprised at the quality of this novel when you consider Mark’s debut novel, The Festival Murders, was longlisted for the Independent on Sunday’s 2024 Alternative Booker prize and selected as the Mail on Sunday’s Thriller of the Week.

Paperback and kindle available https://www.amazon.co.uk/Death-Press-Trip-Sunshine-glamorous-ebook/dp/B0GZ8TSFPH/ and at bookshops.

Milly Adams is the author of the Waterway Girls trilogy https://www.amazon.co.uk//dp/B0FRN1JWMF/ @ £5.97 for all 3 kindles

Monstera: credit courtesy of Bloom & Wild

We are not the only ones feeling the heat – our houseplants and fresh flowers are panting too. With soil drying out faster and stems starting to droop, keeping greenery thriving indoors is becoming a bit of a challenge. Recent search trends show a 170% increase in phrases like “preserve wedding bouquet”, but there’s good news.. With just a few seasonal care tweaks, plants and flowers can stay fresh, flourishing, and fabulous, or so Bloom and Wild assure us. Read on, and let Lucy Hook, Plant Expert at Bloom & Wild, share her top five reasons to switch to bottom watering this summer, and how to revive bouquets and greenery during in the heat.

The Plant Expert’s Secret Weapon, Lucy tells us, is Bottom Watering which avoids water runoff and shallow watering. You see, in hot weather, soil can become compacted or hydrophobic – meaning it repels water. Top watering often results in runoff, missing the roots entirely. Bottom watering also draws water up through the drainage holes, ensuring the entire root ball gets a deep, even soak. It’s especially useful for thirsty plants like Monstera and Bird of Paradise.

Bottom Watering supports root strength and development as it encourages roots to grow downward, strengthening the plant overall. Fast-growing summer favourites like Philodendrons, Pothos and Peace Lilies especially, benefit from this deep-rooting support. It also prevents leaf damage and reduces mould risk as splashing water on leaves can encourage mildew, pests and even rot, particularly in heat. Sensitive varieties, therefore, like Calatheas, Fiddle Leaf Figs. African Violets stay healthier when watered from below as their leaves remain dry and undisturbed.

Snake Plant: image courtesy of Bloom & Wild

Bottom Watering also reduces shock and temperature stress because pouring cold water onto warm soil can shock roots, so it’s important to let plants hydrate more gradually, making it a gentler option for delicate varieties like Ferns, Peperomia, and Maidenhair Ferns. It also builds a better watering rhythm as bottom watering soaks the soil more thoroughly, and extends the time between waterings – ideal for heatwaves or holidays. Succulents, ZZ Plants and Snake Plants especially thrive on this kind of consistent, root-friendly routine.

Now let’s look at: how to Bottom Water Your Houseplants. Place your plant (in a pot with drainage holes) into a shallow bowl or sink with 2–3 inches of water: and leave it for 15–30 minutes or until the topsoil feels damp: Empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot and make sure to water every 2–3 weeks or alternate with top watering if needed.

How to Revive Bouquets from the Heat: even cut flowers can suffer in summer. “Just like us, flowers get floppy when they’re hot and dehydrated,” explains Lucy. “Luckily, they bounce back quickly with the right care.” Here are four expert tips to revive wilted bouquets:

Trim stems at an angle: cut 3–5cm off each stem at a diagonal before placing them in water. This increases the surface area for water absorption and helps flowers perk up fast. Give them a big drink which will rehydrate tired stems in cool, clean water straight away. Check vase water levels daily—bouquets drink more in the heat, as we should. Refresh vase water regularly as warm temperatures encourage bacterial growth, which shortens vase life. So, change the water every two days and trim stems by 1cm to keep them fresh. Importantly, keep them cool Avoid sunny windowsills or direct heat sources. Flowers last longer in cooler spots like a shaded table or sideboard.

Peace Lily: image courtesy of Bloom & Wild.

Finally let’s look at: keeping greenery happy in a heatwave: in addition to bottom watering and flower revival tricks, Bloom & Wild recommends these general plant-care strategies for hot weather. Water early or late but avoid watering at midday, when evaporation is highest. Avoid harsh sun so move plants out of direct sunlight, or use sheer curtains. It’s a good idea to Create humidity by grouping plants together or place a tray of water nearby. Mist lightly as this helps tropical plants, but try to avoid misting fuzzy leaves. Lastly, go easy on the feed so dilute fertiliser or pause feeding if plants seem stressed.

Finally, Good Luck! More information on Bloom & Wild and their fabulous selection of plants and other delightful gifts here:

An Unsuitable Alliance: A sensual Regency romance novel (The Earl’s Disputed Inheritance Book 1) by Fenella J. Miller (Author) Book 1 of 5

The impossible match novel is the first volume of a spellbinding Regency romance series full of intrigue and passion—featuring an independent lady and the man she cannot risk loving… As a trusted business partner of the Somiton twins, Adam and Richard, Edward Revere stands by them but has no desire to involve himself in the tangled legal matters of the Somiton inheritance. He is content to let the lawyers decide whether Adam is the rightful Earl. Nonetheless, he finds himself enamored with a young woman caught in the middle of it all—despite knowing their match is impossible. Lady Eleanor Somiton is more than happy to leave the grand but unwelcoming family estate behind. Along with her mother and sister, she retreats to the peaceful Dower House, relieved to let the new masters of Somiton Hall take charge—whoever they may be. But when distant relatives arrive for a grand summer gathering, not everyone comes with good intentions. And even Eleanor’s heart has its own hopeless plans.

Edward and Eleanor find themselves drawn to one another— oops, do read on. It’s great, and it’s FREE but only for a while: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F2MQST76/

Cassandra – A Scandal in Pemberley: A captivating Pride and Prejudice inspired Regency Romance (The Ladies of Pemberley Book 1) by Linda O’Byrne

Here we have a thrilling Regency romance that continues the story of Jane Austen’s unforgettable characters, where love and betrayal intertwine… and the cost of freedom is higher than ever. The breathtaking launch of the Regency Romance Series The Ladies of Pemberley – Time to quaff a glass of champagne,  Linda O’Byrne. I loved it.

At eighteen, Cassandra Wickham is as headstrong and sharp-witted as her beloved aunt, Elizabeth Darcy, preferring the thrilling pages of a book to the stifling decorum of crowded ballrooms. Yet, her mother, Lydia, has different plans for her: Cassie must marry a wealthy officer, and the grand Regimental Ball is the perfect opportunity for her debut into society… or so her mother hopes. But Cassie harbours no interest in soldiers. Her heart belongs to one man only: Dr. Richard Courtney, intelligent, charming, and refreshingly unassuming. But fate has other plans – her dreams are shattered when she overhears her stepfather promising her to an elderly, powerful widower whose reputation fills her with dread. Outraged and determined … Go girl. Do read this, you’ll enjoy it. And yes, it’s FREE too but only for a while @ https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GTZM2JT8/

Milly Adams is the author of the Waterway Girls trilogy https://www.amazon.co.uk//dp/B0FRN1JWMF/ @ £5.97 for all 3 kindles

On a hot evening in June off I trotted to Coronation Hall, Boroughbridge, near Thirsk for another show by Hightimers. And what a show, such enjoyment emanated from the cast which was wide in age, from the children to the… well, older, but all so talented. Humour, glamour, with a thoughtful story beneath it all, and glorious catchy songs (well, we know that after Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Weber’s hit production wowed the west end) and wonderfully choreographed. Heat? Forget it, it was just pure theatre. Bravo.

As for the costumes, Victoria Herrington shared with Frost Magazine that she had five costume changes, some involving much burning of midnight oil in order to sew on beads to dazzle on stage. Victoria was Potiphar’s wife, amongst other parts and – heavens – she showed herself in a new light as she … No, enough, watch it! Very balletic I must say. Crikey.

And… And … even the Technicolor Dreamcoat was created for the production. It was spectacular. How clever people are – I can barely manage some patchwork.

As Marlo Lomas, Chairman of Hightimers said, ‘I would like to thank everyone for coming to the show. I know I say this for every production, but Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is, without a doubt, one of the best productions we have ever staged.’ A view , Frost Magazine can endorse.

There must have been a great deal of hard work involved, much practise and rehearsals which requires amazing commitment, and this is confirmed by Michelle Henstock, the director. ‘The group of people you have come to see tonight have one thing in common: a desire to do their very best and to send you home with that feel-good factor. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat tells a story of betrayal, love, acceptance and ultimately redemption, all brought to life through song and dance.‘

I have to say that I was foot tapping along with the rest of the audience – all of us, without exception. It was glorious, but in view of the subject – somewhat thought provoking – which all good theatre should be. My goodness, though, the cast must have been hot and bothered, courtesy of the heatwave, but you’d never have known. Add to this the many and varied costume changes as the scenes whipped along at an impressive speed, ‘amazing’ it most certainly was. Oh, how the wonderful cast smiled, sang and danced and I do hope they enjoyed it as much as the audience – not a spare seat to be seen. The show will go on until 27th June. Do go if you possibly can. More information at www.thehightimers.co.uk

Splash of Scandal: A cozy small-town whodunnit mystery (The Tea Leaf Mysteries Book 7 by J. New  

A glamorous rowing club. A celebrated champion. And a murder that won’t stay beneath the surface.When a body washes ashore in Plumpton Mallet, Lilly Tweed must dive into a deadly web of secrets.

We’ve met Lilly Tweed at Frost Magazine before – a former Agony Aunt, purveyor of fine teas, and accidental sleuth. Heavens, I do love cozy crime. When Lilly and Abigail cater their first joint event – a sixteenth birthday party at the local rowing club – they’re determined to make it an occasion to remember. But the celebration becomes unforgettable for all the wrong reasons when a body is discovered washed up on the lake shore. Well, yes, it is a bit of a party dimmer. The victim is no stranger: a prominent club member… Cue Lilly Tweed … This title was previously published as Storm in a Teacup by J. New. Do read it, a bargain @ £3.99 at https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GZCS1QX5/

If I Were You – A totally gripping domestic thriller with a heart-pounding twist by Helen Matthews 

She needs your help. But the truth she is hiding could destroy you both.
A jaw-dropping topical thriller about siblings that will keep you up all night. Tessa, a former career woman with long Covid and depression, lives a reclusive life in a London suburb. When her long estranged younger sister Maddie suddenly turns up with a baby, events spiral. Maddie claims she’s fled a controlling partner who is threatening to take the child. Overwhelmed at first, Tessa wants to help—both her sister and herself. But the situation grows murkier. Maddie speaks of a man named Zak, the baby’s father, who isolated and manipulated her. Her story has gaps and contradictions. Flashbacks and Maddie’s behaviour plant doubts. Is she really just a victim? As Tessa gets pulled deeper into Maddie’s account, she begins to question her own reality and soon the sisters’ relationship starts to fray. A taut thriller you won’t want to put down. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0G64HJ23M/ @ £0.99 for a limited time.

Hung Verdict: An interesting historical mystery that will leave you guessing until the very end (a May Keaps novel – Book 3 of 3) by BK Duncan

A gripping 1920s London mystery, where a fearless Coroner’s Officer faces the complicated mystery of a dead man and a underlying murderous conspiracy … East London, 1920. May Keaps is faced with the perplexing case of a man kicked to death by a horse. He has been formally identified, but it seems the man who died may not have been who the coroner thought he was …

Meanwhile, May’s boss asks her to help on a top-secret case involving Irish terrorism and another potential misidentification. This job puts May in the path of great danger more than once; fortunately, she has a well-placed friend in the form of Irish newspaper reporter Jack Cahill, who helps her to understand the intricacies of the Irish Question. But when Jack returns to Ireland to cope with a family crisis, he is drawn into the war of politics and bullets that rages between the IRA and the British Establishment. On return to England he sees his Irish connections and May’s English investigations coincide, and as the tale concludes with a final violent showdown, May and Jack are forced to consider their futures. A fascinating and well researched historical novel which keeps you on the edge of your seat. Find it here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FHQ43PSF/ And it’s FREE.

Milly Adams is the author of the Waterway Girls trilogy https://www.amazon.co.uk//dp/B0FRN1JWMF/ @ £5.97 for all 3 kindles

Level Up Dad’s Gaming Setup … Yep the time is approaching yet again. You know, when you sit staring at the ceiling wondering what to suggest the older children buy, and what you can find for the little ones to present to the man of the house. So just look at these little beauties, or perhaps beauty is a bit far fetched for the one immediately above, but it does sound interesting. Monkey Bomb Controller Holder & Phone Stand £29.99 from ExgPro.com. Gaming dads can upgrade their desk or gaming station with Monkey Bomb, inspired by Call of Duty. Designed to hold controllers, headphones, remotes or smartphones, the detailed stand doubles as a standout display piece for fans of the franchise.

And look at this Smarter Way to Lounge…

The Krafted Couch £39.99 from KraftedTech.com sounds as though it would fit Daddy in this household as it’s designed for dads who are never far from their phone – even when they’re relaxing. Available in latte, matcha or deep blue, the sleek wireless charger hangs neatly over the arm of a sofa, keeping devices powered up without messy wires trailing across the living room. Available in 3 colours, deep blue, matcha or latte, it will compliment any sofa. Made from soft silicone for a secure fit, it blends seamlessly into the home while offering a practical charging spot exactly where it’s needed.

And this…The Cable Adapter Every Dad Needs

The Krafted Connex £29.99 Available from KraftedTech.com is ideal for dads juggling phones, tablets, earbuds, power banks and more, the Connex solves one of modern life’s biggest annoyances – tangled charging cables. Available in charcoal or jade, this compact adaptor hub combines multiple charging connections into one smart solution, while also supporting fast PD charging and data transfer. Small enough to throw into a work bag or travel case, it’s the sort of gadget that quickly becomes indispensable.

These are just a few of the joys on offer, so have a browse and see what delights your star of the day might prefer @ KraftedTech.com AND ExgPro.com.