A couple days ago, Nicole at Starry Steps, surprised me with her delightful review of Cora’s Quest. But before I lead you to her review, I want to share about her beautiful books:
I loved this poetry collection and gave it 5 glowing stars:
“Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara is the author’s debut poetry collection, but you wouldn’t know it. Reading through this stunning gathering of poems is like strolling through an enchanted forest, which ties into Nicole’s words, “…the magic of nature’s rustle and long dreamy flights of imagination…”
You can read the rest of my review on Amazon and Goodreads or here.
I also just recently finished reading her latest release, The Blues and the Beautiful, which felt like another stroll through an enchanted forest. I’ll share my review along with others before Christmas. Date TBD. 🙂
Both of Nicole’s beautiful books are must reads, so I encourage you to add them to your holiday shopping list! And now, for her delightful review of Cora’s Quest:
“Cora’s Quest” is a sweet story about a baby fawn who loses her way in the woods when she notices a caterpillar and being fascinated by it, she stops to say hello. Suddenly finding herself alone in the forest, Cora has to overcome her feelings of fear without the company of her parents, and find a way to stay calm in order to gather her courage and strength.
This lovely children’s book by Lauren Scott is beautifully illustrated, so little children will be able to enjoy the story being read to them while looking at very cute colorful images of Cora’s little adventure…
Additionally, Nicole shares her fabulous review of Too Much Fun to Be Legal by Nolcha Fox and Barbara Leonhard, which I also recommend! Please visit her blog to read the full reviews of both books. And I invite you to write down these titles on your holiday shopping list, or type them into your cell phone. On Cora’s adventure, she learns a valuable life lesson that will resonate with all ages, even adults! 😊
A huge thanks again to Nicole for her lovely review and big heart in supporting fellow Indie Authors! ❤️🙏
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thanks for popping in today, and Happy Friday! Wishing you a fabulous weekend too! ❤️🎄
We miss Copper this holiday season, but we’ll find comfort in the photos of him by the tree, wearing a Santa hat, or snoozing by the fire. If you’d like to order a copy, or know someone who would find comfort in this special collection, please click on the link. Thank you. xo
I’ve read some amazing books lately, and though I love writing reviews to support the talented authors, many who I consider friends, the process turns out to be slowly but surely. Well, ‘surely’ has finally arrived! I hope you enjoy this diverse group of books…
Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara is the author’s debut poetry collection, but you wouldn’t know it. Reading through this stunning gathering of poems is like strolling through an enchanted forest, which ties into Nicole’s words, “…the magic of nature’s rustle and long dreamy flights of imagination…”
Nicole takes the reader on an uplifting ride through worlds where “stairs of stars” transport into light, beauty, and joy. I was enamored by the company of “Mountains in the Sky” “Bloom and Butterfly” and “Lavender Scent.” When the last page was turned, I wondered if the sublime poetry had been a dream. No, Nicole’s poetry is real; her lyrical words prompt the reader to view the world through feel-good lenses. I had too many favorites to count, so I’m sharing a part of “What if…”
If there was a together made of forever we would beam our feelings like two pure beings
through life or through dream, a pathway of gleam on wings made of flames, of love and of games you, uttering fields, mountains and hills, me, rustling flight, restless and bright
with smiles like rays and cuddling days soft dusks like a kiss…a time full of bliss
through seconds a vision remains deeply hidden in the rain and reflections, clouds, recollections…
And a few verses from “Never-ending Song”
You live in my every streak of a star, ray by ray you revolve drawing lines into space… then you touch and you reap, meek murmur of moon you embrace
You live within my every color, I don’t understand how you throb through raw waves of light gems… but the brightness, I feel it softly rising through stems…
Gorgeous color photographs also accompany each poem, radiating richness from the first dreamy step to the last. If your heart and mind crave more soothing songs, if you need a dash of magic, let Nicole’s poetry be the stardust that transports you into a fabulous fantasy. Highly recommended for all poetry fans, and readers who will never stop dreaming.
Embracing the Power to Live by Marsha Ingrao isn’t only a poetry collection, and that in itself, would be lovely. No, Marsha includes sprinkles of faith throughout the 206 pages, along with honesty and humor. In her words, “…this isn’t a self-help book. It is a book of reflections on my life of more than seventy years, expressing the enjoyment I experience creating with words.”
This exquisite book is divided into nine sections that offer subtle life lessons, even when we’re met with challenges: Language, Love, Laughter, Learning, Listening, Listing, Locality, Leisure, and Living. Marsha embraces each with intention and encourages us to do the same. Humor plays a significant role in my life. Sometimes we need to laugh and let go of the seriousness; humor also helps soften the blow when hurdles in our plans come out of nowhere. So, “Embracing the Power of Laughter” deeply resonated. From beginning to end, I smiled, laughed, became teary-eyed, and reflected on my own personal experiences.
I also believe that a good listener makes a better friend, and I agree with Marsha’s thoughts, “When we listen, we start to understand another’s worldview or perspective.” Life isn’t only about our viewpoints. There is so much to learn if we open our minds and hearts. So “Embracing the Power to Listen” resonated as well. Speaking of viewpoints, below is a poignant example – a few verses from a poem that was inspired by the news:
A Flood from the Perspective of a Bridge
I smiled down at the stream A mere babbling brook Bounding over boulders caressing the banks with butterfly kisses
This morning, I awoke in pain My limb, useless and shattered By my dear stream gone rampant Sticks and stones breaking my bones
I lay helpless in frigid waters Pouring over my cement skin Ripping and tearing at my guardrails I cried out a warning, my voice muted by turbulence…
I could go on because there is so much to absorb and savor in Marsha’s nostalgic reflections and writings. But instead, I invite you to not only dip your toes into her poetry but let the words and lessons flow over you like cool water on a sweltering summer’s day. Highly recommended for you who appreciate subtle life lessons and beautiful poetry that evokes reflections of your life.
The Mystery of the Pink Poodle is Dawn Pisturino’s first children’s book, primarily for middle grade youth. I’m familiar with Dawn’s lovely poetry and compelling short stories, but to read her new level of skill is truly impressive. The story centers around the main character, Alina, a young girl whose parents are divorced, which is difficult enough, not to mention, their celebrity status. Her dad is a prominent mystery writer, and her mother is a glamorous movie star. She lives with her father, but because his demanding career takes up most of his time, Alina often stays with the housekeeper. All Alina wants is a normal family. But what brings her joy in the midst of her abnormal life is Muffy, her pink poodle, and everything pink!
She is aware that her father is working on his next novel. And the best way for him to get the work done is to escape to a quiet place so he can isolate himself to write. Alina has no choice but to go with him, and she doesn’t hesitate to let him know how unhappy she feels about it. They head to The Ocotillo Inn in Conrad, Arizona, which looks like an old ghost town. But contrary to Alina’s trepidation, her complaining subsides when she meets the twins, Shiloh and Billie, and their wonderful mom, Megan, who manages the inn.
She learns about the ‘crazy old lady’ who happens to be 100-year-old actress Mimi King, living as a recluse upstairs with issues of her own. But after meeting Mimi, Alina and the twins find themselves in the middle of a mystery. Alina is thrilled to have a purpose during this trip, and her excitement jumps off the pages. I also found the relationship building of Alina, the twins, and Megan to be endearing. You can’t help but root for the girl who loves pink!
Dawn’s writing is superb and pulls the reader into the mystery with enticing storytelling and interesting characters with varied personalities. For the sake of avoiding spoiler alerts, I truly enjoyed this delightful book, which took me back to reading Nancy Drew mysteries. Highly recommended for mystery fans of all ages, adults as well!
Sam, A Shaggy Dog Story by Sally Cronin is told in the voice of a handsome Collie named Sam. I fell in love with Sam from the start. My dog, Copper, crossed over the rainbow bridge earlier this year, so ‘listening’ to Sam talk about his wonderful life with his mom and dad, Sally and David, was one way for me to get my dog fix.
I learned that Sam understood the English language, along with tones and emotions in voices. He was one smart canine! In the beginning, he tells of how his home came to be with his new dog parents, living in a gorgeous house in Ireland. Sam was intuitive, feisty, and entertaining. He met many friends in the form of foxes, feral cats, and rabbits. Henry was a ginger feral cat. We don’t think dogs can befriend cats, but Sam did, and Henry was one of his best friends. But when Sally found Henry, he was lying on death’s doorstep. It was heartwarming and emotional to read how she saved his life.
Aside from making friends, Sam loved to eat, and a few dining favorites were sausage, cheese, and ice cream. When he played in the snow, he thought he was playing in one huge bowl of the cold, delicious treat! During the holidays, he kept his dog parents on their toes by getting into Christmas gifts. But he was kind enough to share his bones with David and loved cuddling with Sally on the floor. The cuddling part reminded me of when Copper and I used to share those special moments. Sam loved long walks on the beautiful beaches, feeling “sand between his toes.” I loved how Sally used to sing during car drives, and Sam loved to listen to his mom’s singing voice. Shania Twain was their favorite country singer.
When I read through this heartwarming account of Sally and David’s best friend in Sam’s voice, I had moments with tears, laughter, and cuteness overload. The photos of Sam are beyond adorable, and the family photos are so beautiful. I could feel Sally’s love for her shaggy friend in each chapter. She knew what Sam needed, what any animal needed to feel loved. So, if you’re a dog lover, cat lover, or if you have a heart for animals in general, this book is for you!
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Simple sidenote: When I enjoy a collection of poetry, my paperback turns into another dog-eared book in my bookcase. And a dog-eared book in my opinion equals five glowing stars, so each book in this post is throughly dog-eared. My reviews will also be on Amazon and Goodreads soon.
Upcoming November reviews for more wonderful books: Miracles & Ghosts Past by D.L. Finn Beyond the Fetters by Balroop Singh The Bush Devil Ate Sam by Curtis Mekemson
I hope you’ll leave with some great books in your armsor on your kindles! 🥰 Thanks for visiting my corner of blogland, and have a wonderful day! ❤️
Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡
Lauren Scott Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
From the hugs, cuddles, and games of fetch, Copper learned he could trust us. And so, he became family. For thirteen years, he gave us unconditional love. He crossed over the rainbow bridge this past March. It is serendipitous to know that he came into our lives in March and left our earthly world also in March – the month of new beginnings. He was a bright light in our lives that will shine eternally. This is the power of our dogs or any pet. They leave a positive, long-lasting imprint on our souls. (Part of the Preface)
Available on Amazon (click on the image above to purchase from Amazon) Click on the links below for B&N and Kobo: Barnes & Noble, e-book only on Kobo, or if you’re local, you can find a copy at Copperfield’s Books on 4th Street in San Rafael.
On the same shelf with Mary Oliver!
He Carries On
A copper-colored coat he dons Looking handsome as a celebrity icon A senior now Gray on his brow Even with pains, he carries on.
My Shadow
Feeling empty in my bones walking from room to room, where is my shadow?
I hope you’ll let Copper touch your heart like he’s touched so many already. Or perhaps, you have a friend or family member who would find comfort in reading my book. A Huge Thanks to You who have read this special poetry collection and left beautiful, heartfelt reviews. ❤️🤎🧡
When we were visiting our son in Colorado, one place on his itinerary was Estes Park, and it’s in Estes Park where The Stanley Hotel is located, which is where The Shining was filmed, based on the book by Stephen King starring Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall. Although, the brilliant author disapproved of the film adaptation by Stanley Kubrick, even so, our walk around the grounds and inside the hotels was fascinating.
I’m not a horror fan, but I watched this genre in my teens. And yet, some images stick with me like super glue, unlike my husband who enjoys these movies for their creativity, costumes, and makeup, and who doesn’t take them seriously. Those horrific images that follow me through life such as from The Exorcist and The Amityville Horror are why I don’t watch them anymore. 😳 But now I’m going to contradict my words because I remember The Shining, vaguely, and I kind of want to watch it again now that we’ve walked through the hotel. Note, I said kind of.
“Honey, maybe we can watch The Shining on Halloween night,” I suggested. “But I need to have at least one light on.”
“Sounds fine, but I wouldn’t want any lights on. Where’s the fun in that?” He replied.
No decision between wife and hubby has been made yet. TBD.
There are several properties on the grounds, and we arrived in the evening, checking into our hotel, then enjoying a delicious dinner at The Post Chicken and Beer restaurant. We stayed at The Aspire which is part of The Stanley Hotel, so as guests, we were able to walk throughout the campus. I believe the hotel above is where the interior shots of the movie were filmed, but don’t quote me. I’m not versed in the history or details. Lights around the trees created a magical experience while we did what tourists do.
Can you tell I love lights?
Pulled from the hotel website:
Discover historic elegance and natural beauty at The Stanley Hotel, founded in 1909 by F.O. Stanley. Nestled in the heart of stunning Estes Park, Colorado, our iconic hotel is just minutes away from the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park and conveniently accessible from Denver Airport.
Immerse yourself in the rich history that inspired Stephen King’s masterpiece, The Shining, as you explore the corridors and rooms that echo with tales of the past. But The Stanley is more than a literary landmark – it’s a destination for unforgettable experiences.
Explore our diverse offerings, from a number of tours to magic shows, concerts, and exceptional dining experiences. With 41,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space, The Stanley is also the perfect backdrop for weddings and gatherings, making it one of the most sought-after venues in the US.
Whether you’re captivated by history, the allure of nature, or seeking a touch of magic, The Stanley Hotel beckons you to an extraordinary escape where each moment is timeless. Choose from four unique experiences for your stay: The Stanley Hotel, The Lodge, Aspire Hotel & Spa, and The Residences. Book now and embark on a journey where history and hospitality converge, creating lasting memories in a place unlike any other.
For the sake of October’s festivities, here are some quotes from the movie (besides, “Here’s Johnny!”:
“Sometimes human places, create inhuman monsters”
“The world’s a hard place. It don’t care. It don’t hate you and me, but it don’t love us, either”
“Redrum” (written on a door, which is “murder” spelled backward)
“I and others have come to a belief, that your heart is not in this. That you don’t have the belly for it,” said Delbert Grady to Jack.
“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”
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I hope you enjoyed reading about the historic hotel, and the photos from our trip. If you’re a horror flick fan, kudos to you! You’re braver than me! I’m too much of a scaredy-cat! And believe me, if we watch The Shining, I’ll win! At least one light will be glowing! 👻
Happy Friday, and have a goosebump-good weekend! 🎃
Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡
Thanks for stopping by, andI wish you a beautiful day! 💙
Lauren Scott
Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
I’ve received so many amazing reviews for my book, that it’s time to pay it forward. So, this is the first batch of reviews with five more coming later this month. And another shout out to everyone who has offered support in some manner during my King Copper journey. I love you all! 💖
Back to these fabulous books…once you begin reading, you won’t want to put any of these down, even if life tries to intercept, and you know it will! 🙂 Simply click on the author names if you’d like to visit their websites!
Honeysuckle Heat by Michele Lee Sefton is a beautifully crafted love story full of passion. We meet crime writer, Matthew Oliver, and Jacqueline Fortin, a successful Los Angeles Anchorwoman. They have a long history together but parted ways. Suddenly, she’s back in his life, and their chemistry is what anyone would long for. Let me share an example of Sefton’s tantalizing prose:
‘He understood why a fallen leaf would want to lodge itself in her wavy strands. He kissed her on the spot where the leaf had been then let the errant flora fall on the kitchen tile – a concern for another time. His lips confirmed what his eyes suspected. Parched from months of emptiness, they were quenched by a softness that brushed against his soul, like a golden sunrise whispering its way above a lone hill. A soft beginning that turned his doting love for her into a warm and fiery glow.’
Will their intense physical attraction and love for each other be enough this time? Are their goals for the future aligned? I will let you find out for yourself. As the season changes and temperatures begin to cool, cuddle up with this captivating novella when an evening is winding down and your thoughts have taken a back seat. Let Sefton’s poetic prose transport you to another world built with many enticing layers. Highly recommended.
I am familiar with D.L. Finn’s beautiful poetry. So, when I heard she had released a third book in the “Just Her Poetry” series, I bought a copy right away. The dog-eared paperback lies on my desk as I type this review. Finn’s collection spans from earlier published poems to newly released. I followed her journey from the beginning, which is a tribute to nature through a selection of syllabic poetry and lovely photos paired with them. We share the same love of nature and family, along with gratitude playing a significant role in life. Through Finn’s emotional journey, I smiled and also became teary-eyed. Every emotion you can imagine is highlighted throughout this evocative collection. She creates such vivid scenes that I felt as though I had stepped into a specific moment, feeling the sentiments with every bit of energy. There are too many favorites to mention, so here are a few:
“The Forest”
the forest’s sweet song/caresses my weary soul/with healing beauty
“Summer” (first two verses)
When I think of childhood summers, It’s swimming, playing, fishing, and vacations Long nights, as I imagined my next adventure Finally, the crickets’ song lulled me into happy dreams.
My old house was heavy with heat Making me wish I could lift the roof to cool Square metal fans hummed in every room, Everyone, except my grandparents, wore shorts and tank tops.
“Suicide Song” caught me off guard. I learned a little bit more about D.L. Finn. My heart ached, but the poem also speaks about second chances. A poignant and powerful piece of writing. I highly recommend this poetic compilation for everyone who appreciates poetry that touches on real life.
A Noble Bargain is the second book I have read by Jan Sikes. She has a natural skill of pulling readers into her stories, making them feel like part of the character line up. I enjoyed A Beggar’s Bargain so much that I could not pass up the second book. In no time, I fell in love with Oliver Quinn and Rose Blaine. The year is 1948 in a rural Arkansas town. Times are simpler, but hard work is part of the landscape.
Oliver comes from a loving family who does not think twice about helping others in need. He is the kind of son every parent dreams of. His father passed away and he misses him dearly, but he adores his mother who has a heart of gold. Oliver also holds in his heart an American dream, and he will persevere to make it come true. His family is one I would love to meet. Rose and her two brothers live in a completely opposite world riddled with domestic abuse. After the tragic loss of their mother, the siblings have suffered under the violent fist of their alcoholic father. I had no trouble disliking their father, to put it mildly. Sadly, an escape had never presented itself, but Rose is determined to find a way.
One night, Oliver and Rose meet by chance, which is the beginning of their story. I enjoyed rooting for this kind young man to change Rose’s life for the better. I wanted Rose and her brothers to find a way out of the terror they had been living in. But to avoid spoiler alerts, I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a compelling story that spotlights the good in people and the benefit of resilience.
Cade’s Quest begins the first in a series about The McIntyre’s and truly conveys the special connection of family. Readers are transported to the old west in the late 1800s. Four years prior, Cade and his siblings underwent a horrific event when their parents were murdered. And yet, even this amount of time could not erase the horror Cade experienced of “staring into their mother’s face frozen in death and seeing a fly on her cheek.” I felt his agony through the riveting words on the page. Reading about the tragedy was heartbreaking, but what tore at my heart even more were the town “do-gooders” deciding where each child would go. Imagine what it would feel like being young and ripped away from your sisters and brothers after losing your parents in a horrifying crime. Making sense of the heinous act alone for a young child would seem impossible. Imagine how alone and frightened you would feel. Now as an adult, Cade’s mind is set. He needs to find his siblings, but he doesn’t know the first place to look.
I love Cade’s demeanor: courageous, kind, and dedicated to those he loves. As he initiates his quest, several obstacles get in his way – one is being accused of a crime he didn’t commit, which forces him to run. Rumors about his brother, Jess, have him wondering what is true or simply gossip. Along his journey, he meets a young Comanche woman, Rain, who cares for her orphaned nephew. She is also on the run from evil. They become each other’s ally, but will their friendship develop into something more beautiful? You will need to dive into Broday’s exciting storytelling to find out! I highly recommend Cade’s Quest for those who enjoy a gripping western drama.
I’m also adding a lovely book that would be perfect for your coffee table. My copy should arrive tomorrow!
Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡
Thanks for stopping by, andI hope you‘re leaving with a book or two or four! 😁 Wishing you a beautiful week! 🩷
Lauren Scott
Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
When I opened my email this morning, I was pleasantly surprised to find Thomas’ post where he shares his amazing review of King Copper. More gratitude is what I feel, and I’m thankful to say (respectfully) that the support just keeps coming. Thank you again, Thomas, for reading my collection about Copper, and for taking the time to write such a moving review. 🙏
Our beloved Copper Boy
The Life of a Dog named Copper by Thomas Wikman
Copper, a rescue Chocolate Lab, was picked up from a foster home in March of 2012 by a loving family and in return they received 13 years of unconditional love from Copper, who turned out to be a quite remarkable dog. This touching and beautiful book recounts his life in the form of poetry. What better way to tell the life of a dog, than through poetry. Some of the poems are from Copper’s perspective and some of them are from the author’s perspective. Some of the poems are fun, some speak of love, and some speak of grief. I think that everyone who’s ever owned dogs will recognize themselves in this book. I certainly did.
Dogs have personalities, they can express themselves, they are innocent, they are fun, they are loving, they can sense your mood and feelings, and they want to comfort you when you are sad. They love you and they can do amazing things, and they are part of the family. All of this is beautifully expressed in this book. This is a heartwarming book that will leave no heart untouched…
To read the full review, please visit Thomas’ wonderful site by clicking the link below:
Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor at Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
Today, I’m delighted to welcome author and poet Dawn Pisturino as she continues the blog tour for her new middle-grade mystery novel, The Mystery of the Pink Poodle. Dawn’s website is dawnpisturino.wordpress.com, so if you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting her and reading her wonderful writing, please pay her a visit. Her recent popular books are Ancient Voices: Poems about Ancient Egypt and Sun Haiku: 365 Days of Sunshine. The paperback and e-book of Dawn’s book will be available on Monday, September 1st, but the e-book can be pre-ordered now by using the link at the end of this post.
Now you have the floor, Dawn…
Good morning, Lauren! I’m delighted to be here with you today as part of the blog tour for my debut middle-grade children’s mystery novel, The Mystery of the Pink Poodle. Although written for ages 9 to 12, I believe older children and adults would also enjoy reading it.
Amazon Blurb
Alina has a big problem. Her father is a popular mystery writer. Her mother is a glamorous movie star. Left in the care of the housekeeper, Alina feels neglected and unloved. But a summer trip to a living ghost town in Arizona turns a hot, boring summer into an exciting, intriguing mystery.
Who’s the crazy old lady upstairs?Why is she always crying about a missing pinkpoodle?Why is she a prisoner in her own home?And why won’t anybody help her?
When Hollywood meets the Wild, Wild West, a mystery unfolds that will change Alina’s life forever. With the aid of two wannabe cowgirls, Alina follows the trail of an ancient puzzle to discover the answer to the mystery of the pink poodle.
Author’s Note
Although this was written as a mystery novel, the story involves so much more. The larger themes center around friendship, the meaning of family, and intergenerational relationships. The book, above all else, is about people and our care and concern for them, no matter who they might be.
Chapter Two – Identical Twins
[Conrad, Arizona, June 2008]
Alina removed her pink-rimmed sunglasses and took a quick inventory of pink toenails peeking out from pink leather sandals and her pink denim shorts and halter top. A pink watchband circled her left wrist, pink earrings dangled from her ears, and a strand of matching pink beads hung around her neck.
“So what?” she said with an indifferent shrug. “I like pink. It’s my favorite color.”
“But your hair—it’s pink! And your dog! I’ve never seen a pink poodle before!” The twin, wearing a blue shirt, stared at her in horror.
“As I said, I like pink. It matches my baby blue eyes.” Alina made a pouty face and batted her eyelashes as if posing for an imaginary camera.
“Your mother doesn’t have pink hair,” the blue twin insisted. “And why are you so skinny? Are you sick or something?”
“My mother’s a movie star. She has to be thin. I’m going to be just like her, so I have to be thin, too.”
“Anorexic, more like it,” the blue girl grumbled. “Movie stars and models never eat.”
“Don’t mind her,” said the other girl, putting out her hand. “She’s just jealous. My name’s Shiloh Blair. This is my sister, Billie. We’re going to have fun while you’re here.”
Alina shook the girl’s hand. “Identical twins! How will I ever tell you apart?”
“We don’t dress alike,” Shiloh answered, “except once in a while. You see? I’m wearing red. Billie’s wearing blue. We like to be different.”
“She likes books,” Billie said. “I like horses. But we both like country western music.”
“Yuck,” Alina said. “I hate country western.” Muffy squirmed in her arms.
“Can I hold her?” Shiloh asked.
Alina handed her the curly-haired pink poodle. “Her name is Muffy.”
“Our mother runs this place,” Billie said. “She won’t let us have any pets. She’s afraid the old lady upstairs would make a fuss.”
“The old lady upstairs?” Alina felt uneasy that the face in the window belonged to the old lady.
“Yeah, she lives up on the third floor. She owns this place. She ran out of money and opened up this house as a bed and breakfast inn. People come here to stay all year round. But we’ve never had a movie star’s daughter before.”
“Or a famous mystery writer,” Shiloh chimed in. “You’re so lucky!”
Alina frowned. “I’m not so lucky. My parents are divorced.”
Billie and Shiloh looked at each other and laughed. “Our parents were never married,” Shiloh said.
“And we hardly ever see our father,” Billie added. “At least you live with your father. It must be so exciting traveling around with him.”
“I never go anywhere with my father,” Alina said. “He’s always busy writing. And I never see my mother. She’s too busy making movies. She calls me once in a while on my cell phone. I spend all my time with the housekeeper, Mrs. McPherson. But at least she likes me and worries about me.”
“He brought you here,” Shiloh pointed out.
“Because he had to. Mrs. McPherson is back in Pennsylvania visiting her sick sister. Otherwise, I’d be spending the summer at home in Beverly Hills.”
“Beverly Hills!” the twins squealed.
“90210,” Shiloh said. “How cool! Do you live in a huge mansion like Paris Hilton and drive around in a limo with a chauffeur?”
“Do you have a big swimming pool and your own tennis courts?” Billie asked.
“Give me a break,” Alina said. “I go to school and do homework, just like you.”
Author BIO
Dawn Pisturino is a retired registered nurse in Arizona whose international publishing credits include poems, short stories, and articles. She has published five poetry collections, including her most recent release, Ancient Voices: Poems About Ancient Egypt, which achieved #1 Amazon New Release status in African Poetry, History of Egypt, History of Africa, and History of North Africa. She is a member of the Mystery Writers of America and the Arizona Authors Association.
There is so much happening that gives reason for celebrating in the midst of still missing Copper. I don’t normally remember my dreams, but I dreamed about him the other night and it was vivid. Just an ordinary day with him trotting around the house, “nails clicking on the floor.” Anyway, I am so grateful and humbled by the beautiful reviews that are flowing in for King Copper. Thank you to those who have shared your heartwarming thoughts. ❤️
I also want to share the great news that my dear friend, Maggie, at Ephemeral Encounters, has been nominated for Author of the Month by Spillwords! And my good friend, Ernie, at The Dawghouse, has been nominated for Publication of the Month for his poem, “Little Mouse.” Way to go, Maggie and Ernie! 🎉
I encourage you to cast your vote for these two amazing writers at https://spillwords.com/vote/ and voting will conclude on August 29th. 🗳️
On another note,writing reviews seems to be a slow process for me. I should get in the habit of writing the review right after finishing a book. But no…I can’t stop reading, therefore, the books pile up and so do the reviews waiting to be written. That’s currently where I’m at. But having an abundance of books to read is the best problem, right?
And my latest selection include the following 5-star reads:
Gratitude & No Fairy Tale by D.L. Finn Honeysuckle Heat by Michele Lee Sefton A Noble Bargain by Jan Sikes Cade’s Quest by Linda Broday (Jan’s sister) Endangered Species by Jacqui Murray Embracing the Power to Live by Marsha Ingrao
So next month, I’ll share my reviews! In the meantime, I hope you’ll check these fabulous books out!
Let’s keep those TBRs towering! 😂
And let’s not forget my TBR:
I’m currently reading a wonderful book: The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Lowenhohle by Thomas Wikman and in the lineup are: Sam, A Shaggy Dog Story by Sally Cronin The Bush Devil Ate Sam by Curtis Mekemson Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara
I’m sure the lineup will grow as fast as I’m typing! 📚
Lastly, I’d like to share an earlier, beautiful review of King Copper by Jan Sikes:
Processing Loss in poetic form Reviewed in the United States on August 10, 2025 Verified Purchase
I shed more than a tear or two as I read this beautiful tribute to King Copper, a chocolate lab that gave so much love and joy to the author’s family. The poetry is heartfelt and poignant. Some of the poems speak of the happy times and some of the deep sadness at Copper’s passing. He came to their home in March with youthful spirit and left in March gaining angel wings with 13 years in between. This is a touching story of unconditional love. Here is an example of poems that touched me deeply…
Young Lab
There once was a friendly, young lab With energy delightfully fab He loved belly rubs Hated baths in the tub He gave big, toothy smiles, never sad!
My Shadow
Feeling empty in my bones walking from room to room, where is my shadow?
Those are just two very short examples of the deep heartfelt poetry in this book. The photos of the deeply cherished Copper and his family are an added bonus. If you’ve ever experienced the pain of loss and struggled to find a way to carry on, I recommend this short read to help you process. It touches on the reality of grieving and how hard it can be to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Yet, we do, as the author shows us.
Thanks so much, Jan, and a huge thanks to you who have shared your reviews on your blogs (I’ll reblog soon), and/or on Amazon and Goodreads. I am grateful beyond words! ❤️
This wraps up the highlights, so hugs to you for stopping by! I know you have a million blogs to read and support like I do, so your time here is appreciated! Have a spectacular day! 💖
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author 