Susan M. Boyer, Author at Seaside Southern Mysteries

On Deadlines and Air-Fried Tomatoes

June 27, 2024 in books, I Am Therefore I Write, News, Occasionally I Cook

Can you believe that summer has arrived? I’d claim not to know how time flies so quickly, but for me this year has been a blur. Between writing and launch preparations and caring for my family, it feels to me like Christmas and New Year’s were just a few short weeks ago.

The great news is that I am nearly finished with The Sullivan’s Island Supper Club (forthcoming) and I have selected a launch date for it at last. Mark your calendars for September 17, when the eBook, print, and audiobook formats will all be live! The eBook is widely available for preorder and the audiobook is available in my store. For those interested in print, the exclusive print preorder will be available soon via my local independent bookstore, Fiction Addiction.

Because I’m officially on deadline now, I’m afraid I don’t have anything to report this month in the way of events, but I am thrilled to share some other book-related news! I recently received word that Big Trouble on Sullivan’s Island was awarded the 2024 Independent Publisher Book Awards Silver Medal in the category of Southeast Regional Fiction! It was also selected as a 2024 National Indie Excellence Award finalist in the same category. To say that I’m honored is an understatement.

Finally, those of you who love the monthly recipe feature will find Gavin’s Air Fried Tomatoes waiting for you here. This is a vegan adaptation of a Southern classic and the tomatoes turned out deliciously. If you decide to test the recipe in your own kitchen, do let me know if you enjoy it as much as we did!

On Reader Events and Chicken Bog

February 27, 2024 in in person appearances, News, Occasionally I Cook

I’m gradually making progress on The Sullivan’s Island Supper Club (forthcoming), but as you may recall, I’ve also been on a campaign of protecting my sanity by continuing to stay flexible about when exactly I’ll be releasing this book. Thank you so much for your patience while I take care of family needs and try to find some balance. Please stay tuned. The book is coming soon, I promise.

I am taking time away from writing to squeeze in two quick personal appearances this month to meet and visit with readers. I’ll be signing books at the Barnes & Noble Market Common in Myrtle Beach on Saturday, February 24 from noon to 3:00 p.m. Eastern. I’m also attending Books Over Drinks with Hank Phillippi Ryan at M. Judson Booksellers in Greenville on Tuesday, February 27 at 7:30 p.m. Eastern. There hasn’t been time for me to participate in any reader events since before Christmas, and I’m very excited to see those of you who can attend.

Audiobook readers, if you haven’t listened to Lowcountry Bombshell, the second book in the Liz Talbot Mystery series, the second edition is now available in my store as well as all the usual outlets, including Audible, Apple, Libby, Hoopla

For those who enjoy my recipes, I haven’t forgotten about you. You’ll find Eugenia’s Chicken Bog right here on the website. This is as much a production as it is a recipe, but it’s also a showstopper. If you ask Eugenia, it’s a dish that invites you to be creative, provided you aren’t a purist. Whatever your take, you can make chicken bog for any event, or just to impress your regular mealtime companions. If you try it, please let me know how you like it!

On the New Year, and New Books!

January 25, 2024 in books, I Am Therefore I Write, News

I confess I’m a bit gobsmacked that it’s actually already 2024. Last year was unbelievably difficult for my family, but it also seemed to flash by in a blur. If you’re anything like me, you find yourself frequently wondering where time goes. Then again, I am often so busy that special occasions, holidays, and milestones sneak up on me regularly. In any case, I hope this brand new year is treating you and yours well.

With the holidays behind us for yet another year, I’m more focused than ever on The Sullivan’s Island Supper Club (forthcoming). That said, I’m realizing now it was a mistake (given my ongoing family situation–my dad’s health and other crises) to set a firm release date. There are things simply out of my control, and every time I need to be with my family for a few days, or a week, I’m having a stress attack, which doesn’t help my productivity when I’m back at my desk.

There’s quite a lot that goes into a book beyond the writing–several types of editing, cover design (more on that very soon!), formatting, getting early reviews, marketing and promotion, and on and on. I love having my own imprint, and being the decision maker on all aspects of the book. But it’s been a process for me, learning what I must delegate (everything but the writing). Delegating is necessary, but then I’m working with other professionals’ schedules and calendars, not just my own. I will get better at this, I promise. In the meantime, I’m proactively protecting my sanity.

So, The Sullivan’s Island Supper Club (forthcoming) will be released sometime in the first half of 2024. It might be April 16, as originally planned. It may be May, or even June, depending on how things go. I’m thinking life is too short for self-inflicted stress, so I may do this every release–announce a general release date, then get more specific as things unfold.

This book has really captured my imagination and I have some big things planned for the launch. Despite how quickly the days seem to pass, I cannot wait to share this new book with all of you! Keep your eyes on this space for updates.

Audiobook lovers, I’m so happy to share that the second edition audiobook of Lowcountry Bombshell, narrated by the very talented Tiffany Morgan, is now live in my store. You can start listening today, or you can preorder a copy from your favorite major retailer ahead of its January 26 general release.

For those of you who enjoy signed paperbacks, I hope you’ll be as excited as I am that all of my titles are now available in print in my store. You can order any or all of the Liz Talbot Series books in paperback, signed by me and personalized to your preferences. I also have hardcover and digital copies of Lowcountry Boil, Lowcountry Bombshell, Lowcountry Getaway, Postcards from Stella Maris, and Big Trouble on Sullivan’s Island available.

Introducing the Worldwide Headquarters of Stella Maris Books, LLC!

December 27, 2023 in News

Have you ever wondered what the Worldwide Headquarters of Stella Maris Books, LLC looks like? I’m delighted to finally give y’all a look inside the space where I do almost all of my work these days! It’s hard to believe we’ve now been in this house a year.

A local carpenter (who is much in demand and has had a host of challenges this year) has been working on bookcases for my office since late June. Finally, last week he (mostly) finished the install. While there is one final section to go in behind my desk in early 2024, I am thrilled with the impact this project has already made on my workspace, and I am overjoyed to finally have my books unpacked and on display once again.

Now, as you might imagine, these improvements have interrupted my writing just a bit, but I am still focused on The Sullivan’s Island Supper Club (forthcoming) and making as much progress on the next Carolina Tale as I can. With April 16 less than four months away now, there’s certainly no time to lose!

Virtual launch party for Lowcountry Boughs of Holly!

October 5, 2020 in Appearances

Fiction Addiction will be hosting a virtual launch party for Lowcountry Boughs of Holly on November 16, 2020!

If you preorder through Fiction Addiction by October 31, you’ll receive a ticket to the virtual launch celebration on November 16. Links to the event will be emailed by Fiction Addiction on the day of the event.

The October 31 cutoff is to allow time for Fiction Addiction to get their shipment in with enough books for everyone before the launch date. This also gives me time to sign them all before they’re shipped to readers.

If you’d rather speak with someone by phone, please call Fiction Addiction at (864) 675 – 0540 to reserve your copy of Lowcountry Boughs of Holly.

Fiction Addiction: https://www.fiction-addiction.com/…/LOWCOUNTRY-BOUGHS…

Pre-release celebration of Lowcountry Boondoggle!

May 15, 2020 in Appearances

VIRTUAL event! Join bestselling author Susan Boyer in a pre-release celebration of her new book, Lowcountry Boondoggle!

Purchase your tickets HERE

Date And Time: Tue, Jun 16, 2020, 7:30 PM EDT

About this event:

Your event ticket will give you access to a live online book talk with bestselling author Susan Boyer, the ability to view a 48-hour replay in case you miss the live event, AND a signed (personalized if you like) copy of her latest release, Lowcountry Boondoggle. The $18 ticket option includes a paperback copy of the book, and the $35 ticket option includes a hardcover copy. You’ll also have the chance to type in questions to be answered by the author during the event Q&A session.

Tickets can be purchased through noon on Monday, 6/15/20.

(Please note that this is a pre-publication event. Books will be available to pick up/ship on the pub date of 6/30/20.)

Lowcountry Boondoggle Preorder Celebration Giveaway

May 15, 2020 in Giveaways, I Am Therefore I Write, Lowcountry Boondoggle

Hey Y’all!

Lowcountry Boondoggle (A Liz Talbot Mystery #9) releases on June 30! Preorders are live for all formats except audio. Trade paperback and hardcover preorders are available through Fiction Addiction only for the time being. Other retailers will follow soon and I will keep you posted. I don’t have an audio release date yet, but it’s coming!

Because of the continued need for social distancing, the launch party for Lowcountry Boondoggle will necessarily be a virtual one. The best part about this is that everyone can come—now matter how far away you live, you can be there for the pre-launch event.

Your ticket will include a live online party / book talk with me, the ability to view a 48-hour replay in case you miss the live event, AND a signed (personalized if you like) copy of Lowcountry Boondoggle. If you’re not familiar with these virtual events, never fear—no technical know-how is required, and there’s no software to install.

We’re doing a pre-launch celebration on June 16 to allow time for Fiction Addiction to get their shipment in with enough books for everyone before the launch date. This also gives me time to sign them all before they’re shipped to readers. Just click the HERE to get your ticket, which includes the book.

If you’d rather simply order the book from Fiction Addiction, you can preorder your copy to be signed (and personalized if you like) and shipped by launch day. Just call Fiction Addiction at (864) 675 – 0540 or click the Fiction Addiction preorder link HERE or below to reserve your copy.

Let’s start celebrating early with a giveaway, why don’t we? On the morning of June 30, I’ll draw a random winner from everyone who pre-ordered Lowcountry Boondoggle and/or followed the instructions below to enter. The prize? A $100 gift card to the book retailer of your choice, PLUS a Stella Maris T-shirt. I’ll also draw for three runner-up prizes—additional Stella Maris T-shirts.

Entering is easy, but please read carefully.

If you’ve already preordered, (including if you’ve purchased a pre-launch event ticket, which includes the book) thank you so much! Skip the rest of these bullet points and go directly to the Rafflecopter below!
If you haven’t pre-ordered your copy yet, there are links to several retailers HERE.
There are multiple contest entry options, including one for folks who are waiting on the audio version and one for folks who read from their local library. Please sign in to the Rafflecopter giveaway below using either your email address OR Facebook account and click on the first question to see all the entry options.

I hope to see you soon!

Warmly,

Susan

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Legalese & Whatnot –this is no fun, but I gotta do it:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Lowcountry Boondoggle Preorder Celebration Giveaway’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 05/08/2020 at 12:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 06/29/2020 at 12:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Susan M. Boyer (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of USA, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand who are 18 or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 48 hours of contest close by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by email at the email address provided in the Entry Information on or about 48 hours of contest close after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes: – 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [$100 Gift Card] [to the book retailer of your choice] [_PLUS_ a Stella Maris T-Shirt]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $125) – 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [Stella Maris T-Shirt]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25) – 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [Stella Maris T-Shirt]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25) – 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [Stella Maris T-Shirt]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25) Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items. Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within USA, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by signing into the entry form and perform the tasks provided. The entry form can be found on the following website at https://susanmboyer.com/2020/05/07/lowcountry-boond…bration-giveaway/ . Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Susan M. Boyer can be found at https://susanmboyer.com/privacy-policy/

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification. In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Susan M. Boyer cc: Lowcountry Boondoggle Preorder Celebration Giveaway at 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US. Request must be received no later than 48 hours of contest close + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Susan M. Boyer, 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US, susanmboyer@gmail.com

10. Rafflecopter Disclaimer: This promotion is powered by Rafflecopter. Metric Feat LLC (“Rafflecopter”) does not sponsor, administer or endorse this promotion. By entering this promotion, Participants agree to Rafflecopter’s Privacy Policy (http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/privacy/). For technical information about the Rafflecopter widget, please visit http://blog.rafflecopter.com/2012/08/anatomy-rafflecopter-giveaway/.

11. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

12. This promotion may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the Sponsor.

Should I Become a Hermit, This is Why…

November 5, 2019 in Conferences, Crazy Happens, Road Trip

Y’all, last week I was at Bouchercon, an annual convention for fans and authors of mystery fiction, in Dallas. I had the pleasure to serve on the Southern Charm panel Friday morning along with Claire Booth, Kelly Ford, Roger Johns, and my friend and fellow Carolinian, Cathy Pickens. (Somehow, they talked J.D. Allen into moderating us, bless her heart.) We chewed on all things Southern mystery fiction, then had our turn at signing books.

I saw many old friends and met a few new ones. When you get more than 1,700 mystery lovers in one place for five days, with all manner of celebrations, lunches, dinners, interviews, panels, and of course, quality time in the bar, well, one’s energy tends to get a bit sapped.

I had a blast and ended up pleasantly exhausted, but this isn’t about that. It’s about the long and winding road home.

I was in a somewhat frazzled state (see above) when Sugar and I began our trip home Sunday morning. Well, I was headed home, anyway. Sugar was headed to see a client in Pennsylvania. But he coordinated our flights out of Dallas so he could talk Delta into taking me and all my luggage home without our having to mortgage the house. (Sugar is a million-miler. I fly a few times a year. Delta likes him much better than me, and I don’t travel light.)

The first indication this would not be a good travel day came when the agent at baggage drop told us my flight had been delayed. But after much clicking on her keyboard and squinting at her screen, she was able to change me to another flight so I wouldn’t miss my connection in Atlanta. Sugar negotiated getting the baggage checked, except the agent balked at the big Stetson box carrying our brand new hats. “I’d carry that,” she said, with a knowing look.

“But I have my (85 pound) back pack (stuffed to near bursting) and my purse,” I said. “I’m afraid the gate agent won’t let me carry on a third piece.” They’re typically pretty serious about the two item limit.

“That’s a l’il tiny purse,” she said. “You can fit that inside your back pack. If it’s just partway in, it’ll be fine.”

I had no faith whatsoever that my backpack would hold so much as another lipstick, but Sugar didn’t want his Stetson checked to begin with, so I went along. We proceeded to the Delta club. At this point, Sugar was carrying both our laptop backpacks and the Stetson box. I had my small, crossbody bag. We settled into comfy chairs and had breakfast.

After an hour, Sugar walked me to my gate and helped me squeeze my purse into my backpack. Then the delays commenced on my reassigned flight.

We (Sugar) hauled all our stuff back to the Delta club, situated ourselves near a flight monitor, got refreshing beverages, and watched the departure time for my flight change until it became clear it was unlikely I’d make my connection. Sugar went and spoke with someone at the desk and came back with a slip of paper and told me I was “backed up” on the next flight to Greenville from Atlanta just in case.

Eventually, they settled on a departure time and Sugar hauled me and my things back to the gate. I lugged my stuffed-like-a-sausage backpack and the huge Stetson box with the thin, rough twine “handle” onto the plane. Miraculously, both items fit in the overhead bin. I popped in my headphones and watched a movie. The flight to Atlanta was actually quite pleasant.

As soon as the wheels of the plane touched down, I checked the status of my flight to Greenville on my phone. It was already boarding. We’d landed at concourse T, and my connecting flight was at a B gate. I’d have to run, but maybe I could make it…

There was a delay in getting the jetway to the plane. I managed to hit only one woman on the head with that hateful, ginormous hatbox while getting my stuff out of the overhead bin. (She graciously accepted my profuse apologies.) Once we were able to start deplaning, everyone rushed to make a connection so it was a free-for-all. But maybe I could make it…

I dashed down the jetway and through the terminal, (to the extent one can dash while weighted down like a pack mule on a cross-country expedition) took the escalator down to the plane train, and rode the two stops to B gates. I took the escalator up and hurried as fast as I could to gate B2–naturally, the one next to the last one at the far end of the concourse.

The string on the hat box cut into my fingers and kept twisting around and cutting off my circulation. My backpack made it impossible to move with any speed. I was panting and having heart palpitations from the unaccustomed exertion. Even though it seemed I was moving at a snail’s pace, people in front of me were moving slower still, meandering through the concourse, taking in the lovely sights. Several times, people just stopped abruptly and stood in the middle of the walkway right in front of me, causing me to have to dive around them to keep from plowing over them. It was a struggle to hold onto my sunny disposition, is what I’m saying.

When at long last I arrived at the gate, the sign still said “Boarding!”

Hallelujah!

But wait–there were no gate agents. The plane was still there. The sign clearly said they were boarding all passengers. But the door was closed. Three other poor souls stumbled to the gate, gasping for breath. One of the women wore a look of incomprehension, a mirror of mine, no doubt.

“They’ve closed the door,” her husband said. “They won’t open it.”

I sighed, but was exceedingly grateful that Sugar had me “backed up.” I went to the nearest monitor and saw that my back-up flight left from gate B-32. You’d think gate B-32 wouldn’t be all that far from gate B-2. It’s on the same concourse, after all. I wouldn’t have to ride the plane train to get there.

Let me tell you, that was a long hike. I had to stop a couple times along the way to put my things down to rest my hands and arms, and once for water.

When I reached the outpost that was gate B-32, I waited in line for my turn to speak to the gate agent. I don’t think she was having an especially good day. I smiled brightly, mindful of what surely was my disheveled appearance, and started to tell her my story. Seven words in–after she heard “Greenville” come out of my mouth, she said, “Greenville’s had a gate change. It’s at B-10.” I might have started babbling at that point. She repeated that I needed to go to gate B-10. She wasn’t smiling, but she did tell me to have a nice day as I stumbled away.

When I’d made it nearly all the way back from whence I’d come, I went to speak with the gate agent at B-10. “I have you on the flight,” he said. He handed me back my original boarding pass from the flight I’d missed and said, “Use this to board.”

I collapsed into a chair and responded to Sugar, who’d sent me several texts I hadn’t been able to answer. He was on a flight to Detroit and using the plane’s wifi. After that, I might have lost consciousness for a while, but when I came to, the gate agent called anyone who needed extra time getting down the jetway to board. Now, I’m not a feeble person nor an infirm one either. But on that particular day, let me tell you, I needed extra time.

I gathered my things and stumbled towards the door.

He scanned my boarding pass, then said, “Uh-oh.”

“Uh-oh?” I asked.

“Are you on this flight?” he asked.

“You just told me I was,” I said.

He looked at me. “Don’t you have a boarding pass?”

“You told me to use that one.”

“I did, didn’t I?” He started clicking and squinting. Finally, a printer spit out a new boarding pass. He scanned it, then handed it to me.

I crawled down the jetway, onto the plane, and into my seat.

Now, before we’d left Greenville, Sugar dropped me and all the luggage at the curb at the airport and went to park the car. One piece at a time, I moved our stuff back out of the way. Several other vehicles pulled to the curb and people got out, hugged goodbye and all that. When Sugar got to the terminal to gather me and that huge pile of stuff, he told me exactly where he’d parked. We’d gone over it several times during the course of the week, and again before I’d left Dallas. I remember it vividly. “It’s on the fourth level in the garage,” he said. “You walk straight off the elevator and it’s right there on the left.”

After I collected my big suitcase and my medium suitcase from the office near baggage claim where they’d been waiting because they had made the original flight from Atlanta to Greenville, I propped my backpack onto one of them and that infernal hatbox on the other and rolled everything all the way to the other end of the terminal, out the door, down the ramp, up the elevator and off it on the fourth level.

At that point, I longed for my six-year-old Ford Edge. It’s not glamorous, but the seats are comfortable, and the back holds all my stuff. I just wanted to get my things in the car and go home.

The fourth level of the parking garage was virtually empty. I could clearly see there were only two cars on the whole thing, neither of them mine. Panic was rising in my throat. Had the car been stolen? Why would someone steal my car? Surely there were flashier cars to steal. A little voice in my head reminded me that car thieves don’t usually steal attention-grabbing cars. Which made mine a perfect target.

Maybe Sugar was mistaken. I checked the fifth level. It was also virtually empty, and my car wasn’t there.

By this time, I had an urgent need for the powder room, but there isn’t one in the parking garage. I went to level three. This level was nearly full of cars. I slugged every inch of it looking for mine. Then I checked level two.

Where on earth was my car? Who could I call to come and…what could anyone actually do? I’d have to find the airport police.

What time was it? Sugar would be landing in Detroit any minute. I tried to call him, but no answer. I rolled all my stuff back down to the ground level and up the ramp to the sidewalk.

I’d missed a text from Sugar telling me I had plenty of time to get the things I was carrying to the car while the baggage handlers unloaded the plane. He was thinking I’d make two trips, because he’d given me this advice several times. Apparently, he’d forgotten my luggage would have been on my original flight. I texted him back: I can’t find the car.

Then I called him again and he answered. “Walk straight off the elevator on the fourth level,” he said.

“I did that,” I told him. “It’s virtually empty. The car’s not there. I also checked levels five, three, and two.”

He was quiet for a few seconds. “Are you in the garage nearest to baggage claim?”

“No,” I said. “I’m in the garage you park in every single time you come to the airport (roughly 50 times a year, because even if he’s on vacation, we’re usually flying somewhere). On the other end of the terminal.”

“I thought it would be easier for you if I left the car in the garage near baggage claim,” he said.

“And it absolutely would have been, if only I’d known it was there.”

Utter silence.

“I’ve got to find a powder room,” I said.

Eventually, I found my car. But it has taken me most of two days to recover.

It may be a while before I pack another suitcase.

Same as, But Different…

October 28, 2019 in Conferences, Road Trip

This week I’m in Texas. Yesterday – Wednesday, I’m in a small town about an hour north of Dallas with Sugar. I’ll work in the hotel room while he works with a client. I LOVE working from hotel rooms. There are far fewer distractions. Someone else makes the bed and brings fresh towels. There’s always fresh coffee, and fresh baked cookies at 4:00 pm. I can’t run errands, or do laundry, or organize my closet. I get way more work done in hotels.

On Wednesday, Sugar will take me to Dallas and drop me off for Bouchercon. (He’ll join me on Friday.) If you’re not familiar, Bouchercon is a huge mystery fan convention. This is the fiftieth anniversary, so there will be all kinds of fun.

I’ll send postcards. But here’s what today looks like…

Who Could Use a Kate Spade Tote?

September 26, 2019 in Giveaways, I Am Therefore I Write

So, that’s an unfair question, I know. Most of us could probably use a new Kate Spade tote, even if it’s just to tote around books we want to read while waiting at the airport, doctor’s office, or car repair shop. But this Kate Spade tote, which currently resides in my office, will have a new owner come Monday. Interested?

Are you on Facebook? Because this bag and its secret contents will be given away to one person who comments on the live interview I’ll be doing Monday night in the My Book Tribe Facebook group. What is this group I speak of, you ask? Well, there are eleven authors–I’m one of them–who got together and started this cool online book club called (you guessed it) My Book Tribe. It’s a quiet corner of the internet for folks who enjoy our books to chat about, well…books.

Perhaps you’re already a member. If so, visit the group and scroll to Denise Grover Swank’s post from this morning (Thursday, September 26, 2019). Actually, I just marked it as an “Announcement,” so you don’t have far to scroll. It’s right at the top. Click on the button in the bottom right with a star that says “Get Reminder.” This will remind you to join the conversation Monday, September 30 at 8 PM EDT. We’ll be talking about Lowcountry Boil (Liz Talbot Mystery #1) and anything else y’all want to discuss. Comment on Denise’s post from today if you have a question for me. We’ll get to ask many of them as we can on Monday.

If you aren’t a member of My Book Tribe, join now so you’re ready on Monday.

Then, come Monday, September 30, join Denise Grover Swank and me at 8PM EDT for a live chat. The bag will be given away to one random commenter on that interview post. Because not everyone will be available at that exact time, you have 24 hours to comment on that post. That’s the only way to enter. Comments on posts from earlier in the month announcing the contest do not count as entries.

I hope to chat with you on Monday–come see me!

Warmly,

Susan

*** Complete Contest Rules ***

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Kate Spade Tote Giveaway’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 09/30/2019 at 8:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 10/01/2019 at 9:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Susan M. Boyer (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand who are 18 or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 48 hours by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by Facebook Comment and Facebook Message on or about 48 hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes:

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) Kate Spade Sydney large double-zip black satchel (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $200) with surprise contents, ARV $100

Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items.

Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within the USA, Canada, UK, Australia and New Zealand. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by commenting on the live interview Facebook Post in the My Book Tribe Facebook group on September 30 at 8 PM and for 24 hours after. The entry “form” (post) can be found on the following website at https://www.facebook.com/groups/MyBookTribe/.

Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Susan M. Boyer can be found at https://susanmboyer.com/privacy-policy/

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification.

In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Susan M. Boyer cc: Kate Spade Tote Giveaway at 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US. Request must be received no later than 48 hours + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Susan M. Boyer, 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US, susanmboyer@gmail.com

10. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

11. This promotion may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the Sponsor.

Lowcountry Boomerang Preorder Celebration Giveaway

July 25, 2019 in Giveaways, I Am Therefore I Write, Lowcountry Boomerang, The Liz Talbot Mystery Series

Hey Y’all—Giveaway Alert! Lowcountry Boomerang (A Liz Talbot Mystery #8) releases on September 3! Preorders for all formats except the Audible download are live. The audio release date is September 30.

Let’s start celebrating early with a giveaway, why don’t we? On the morning of September 3, I’ll draw a random winner from everyone who pre-ordered Lowcountry Boomerang and/or followed the instructions below to enter. The prize? A $100 gift card to the book retailer of your choice, PLUS one of the handmade Stella Maris mugs, PLUS a Stella Maris T-shirt, PLUS a charter named after you in the next Liz Talbot Mystery. I’ll also draw for five runner-up prizes—two additional Stella Maris mugs and three T-shirts. Entering is easy, but please read carefully.

If you’ve already preordered, thank you so much! Skip the rest of these bullet points and go directly to the Rafflecopter below!
If you haven’t preordered your copy, links to several retailers are HERE.
Greenville area friends–I sure hope you’re coming to the launch party at Fiction Addiction on September 3! Just in case you can’t make it to the party, to get your signed, personalized copy (either shipped or for pickup) please preorder from Fiction Addiction. If you are coming, please get your free ticket from Fiction Addiction and then enter the giveaway.)
Charleston area friends–the Charleston launch party will be at Buxton Books, September 5, from 5:30 – 7:00 pm. I so hope you can be there! We’ll have drinks to toast with along with a lovely cheese and charcuterie board from Goat Sheep Cow. The ticket price includes your copy of the book. Get your tickets HERE.
Pawleys Island / Litchfield / Grand Strand area friends–I’ll be at Oceans One on Tuesday, September 17, at 11:00 for a Moveable Feast Literary Luncheon. I so hope to see you there! Tickets are available HERE. This time, the tickets include the book, so if you’ve bought your ticket, be sure to check that box on the Rafflecopter entry form below.
There are multiple contest entry options, including one for folks who are waiting on the audio version and one for folks who read from their local library. Please sign in to the Rafflecopter giveaway below using either your email address OR Facebook account and click on the first question to see all the entry options.

I hope to see you soon!

My best,

Susan

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Legalese & Whatnot –this is no fun, but I gotta do it:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Lowcountry Boomerang Preorder Giveaway’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 07/26/2019 at 12:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 09/02/2019 at 12:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Susan M. Boyer (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of the USA and Canada who are 18 or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 48 hours by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by email at the email address provided in the Entry Information on or about 48 hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes:

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [$100 Gift Card] [to the book retailer of your choice] [_PLUS_ a Stella Maris T-Shirt] [_PLUS_ a Stella Maris Mug] [_PLUS_ a Character] [named after you] [in the next Liz Talbot Mystery]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $150)

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [Stella Maris Mug]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25)

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) [Stella Maris T-Shirt]] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25)

Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items.

Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within the USA and Canada. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by signing into the entry form and perform the tasks provided. The entry form can be found on the following website at https://susanmboyer.com/2019/07/19/lowcountry-boomerang-celebration-giveaway/.

Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Susan M. Boyer can be found at https://susanmboyer.com/privacy-policy/

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification.

In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Susan M. Boyer cc: Lowcountry Boomerang Preorder Giveaway at 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US. Request must be received no later than 48 hours + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Susan M. Boyer, 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273 Greenville, SC | 29609 US, susanmboyer@gmail.com

10. Rafflecopter Disclaimer: This promotion is powered by Rafflecopter. Metric Feat LLC (“Rafflecopter”) does not sponsor, administer or endorse this promotion. By entering this promotion, Participants agree to Rafflecopter’s Privacy Policy (http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/privacy/). For technical information about the Rafflecopter widget, please visit http://blog.rafflecopter.com/2012/08/anatomy-rafflecopter-giveaway/.

11. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

12. This promotion may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the Sponsor.

In Which Liz Appears in a Video Wiki

July 1, 2019

Happy Monday Y’all!

Here’s a fun bit of news from the weekend. I received a notification that Lowcountry Boil, the first Liz Talbot mystery, had been selected for a video wiki. What is a video wiki, you might ask (because that’s the very first thing I did)?

It’s like Wikipedia, but in video. Sounds fun, right? I thought so. And I was naturally thrilled that Liz garnered a mention in their post on lighthearted mysteries. Thank you so much, Ezvid Wiki!

You can see the video here…just click on the book covers to play the video.

Have a great week!

Susan

The Stingray Incident

March 11, 2019

I can’t believe I haven’t told y’all this story, but I’ve searched my blog high and low, and somehow, I have not.

Like many folks, I love the beach. Give me a beach umbrella, a chair, and a book, and I am one happy camper. I used to swim in the ocean, or perhaps more accurately, bob around in it, and ride the waves on anything that would float. That was before my close encounter with a stingray.

The waters off the coast of South Carolina have a fair amount of sand and such stirring around in them courtesy of the rivers flowing into the Atlantic in the vicinity. Disclaimer: I’m not a scientist who studies such things. This is the reason I’ve been given since childhood when I ask why the water in South Carolina isn’t as clear as south Florida and the Caribbean. This could just as easily be something Mamma pulled out of thin air to keep me quite. I digress. The point is, you can’t see the bottom.

A few summers ago we rented a beach house in Garden City, South Carolina for a family vacation. It had a boat dock in the backyard and the Atlantic in the front. The first day—it was a beautiful day—Sugar, (my husband, aka Jim) my brother, and my brother-in-law took the pontoon boat out fishing. Daddy, my sister, and I were taking a late afternoon dip. Mamma was sitting in her beach chair watching us try to push each other down in the waves. We aggravate each other as a way of showing affection.

Suddenly, fish started jumping out of the water—lots of fish. They’d break the surface, hit the water and jump again. They flopped and splashed all around us. Now, I’ve always heard that when small fish do this, it’s because a bigger fish is trying to have them for supper. Naturally, I’m thinking, Shark!

“Run!” I screamed and bolted for the beach. We were almost out of the water when something got ahold of my foot and I just knew I was going to have a stump where my foot used to be. I expected gallons of blood. I’d have to be helicopter-lifted to the hospital. Would I ever walk again? Would I die on the beach from blood loss? These were the things that ran through my mind because it felt like something had chewed my foot clean off.

Imagine my shock seconds later when I reached the beach and my foot looked nearly normal—still attached and everything. It still hurt like blazes. But aside from a little redness and a mark just below my ankle, it looked fine—still attached and everything.

“A jellyfish must have gotten you,” my sister said. “I know those hurt.”

She sounded real sympathetic, but I knew there was no way on God’s green earth she could possibly know how bad my foot hurt or she would be calling 911. I wanted Sugar.

“Find Jim,” I wailed.

“Let’s put some vinegar on it,” my sister said.

“This was not a jellyfish,” I growled. My foot was now a brighter shade of red, and it had puffed up.

I limped towards the house. Someone called Sugar on his cell phone, and by the time I made it to the house, he was there. He put me in the car and off to the ER we went.

I am telling y’all right now, this hurt worse than childbirth. The pain radiated up my leg and the swelling spread. It hurt so bad I howled all the way to the hospital, which took only about twenty minutes but felt like days. I was scared.

I kept right on howling in the ER. They were busy, and wanted to shut me up, so someone brought out some hot towels and wrapped my leg in them. “Does that feel better?”

I stopped my caterwauling. “Yes—that helps.”

“A stingray got you. Heat breaks down the venom.”

Every time the towels cooled off, I started howling again and they’d bring more. I didn’t have to wait long. The doctor had to cut open my foot to make sure the barb wasn’t in there. Thankfully it wasn’t. After several shots and prescriptions for antibiotics and painkillers, I left on crutches.

I spent the remainder of that vacation propped on pillows in the screened porch or hobbling around. I still love beaches, but I have one iron-clad rule: If I can’t see the bottom, I don’t get in the water.

Y’all stay safe.

Susan

Lowcountry Bookshop Preorder Celebration Giveaway

March 22, 2018 in Giveaways, I Am Therefore I Write, Lowcountry Bookshop

Hey Y’all—Giveaway Alert! Lowcountry Bookshop (A Liz Talbot Mystery #7) releases on May 29! Let’s start celebrating early with a giveaway, why don’t we? On the morning of May 29, I’ll draw a random winner from everyone who pre-ordered Lowcountry Bookshop and/or followed the instructions below to enter.

The prize? A $100 gift card to the book retailer of your choice PLUS one of the handmade Stella Maris mugs. I’ll also draw for three runner-up prizes—additional Stella Maris mugs.

Entering is easy, but please read carefully.

If you’ve already preordered, thank you so much!
If you haven’t preordered your copy, links to several retailers are HERE.
Greenville area folks–I sure hope you’re coming to the launch party at Fiction Addiction on May 29! Just in case you can’t make it to the party, to get your signed, personalized copy (either shipped or for pickup) please preorder from Fiction Addiction. If you are coming, you can still preorder from Fiction Addiction and then enter the giveaway.)
Details are coming soon about an exciting pre-launch celebration on May 19 in Charleston, in conjunction with Buxton Books. A preorder option is included with the VIP ticket.
There are multiple contest entry options, including one for folks who are waiting on the audio version and one for folks who read from their local library. Please sign in to the Rafflecopter giveaway below using either your email address OR Facebook account and click on the first question to see all the entry options.

Please Note: I anticipate paperback and hardcover versions will be available for preorder on Amazon and B&N around the end of April–they are definitely coming!

I’m hopeful the audio version will be available by release day.

For now, preorders of trade paperbacks and hardcovers are available exclusively through Fiction Addiction or by purchasing a VIP ticket to the pre-launch celebration in Charleston in conjunction with Buxton Books.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Legalese & Whatnot –this is no fun, but I gotta do it:

By entering, Entrants agree to be bound by all the following Terms and Conditions.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

1. Promotion Description: The ‘Lowcountry Bookshop Preorder’ (“Sweepstakes”) begins on 03/20/2018 at 12:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) and ends on 05/28/2018 at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) (the “Promotion Period”). By participating in the Sweepstakes, each entrant unconditionally accepts and agrees to comply with and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Susan M. Boyer (“Sponsor”), which shall be final and binding in all respects. Sponsor is responsible for the collection, submission or processing of Entries and the overall administration of the giveaway. Entrants should look solely to Sponsor with any questions, comments or problems related to the Sweepstakes.

2. Eligibility: Open to legal residents of USA & Canada who are 18 or older. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, distributors, retailers, sales representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and each of their respective officers, directors and employees (collectively, the “Promotion Entities”), and members of their immediate families and/or persons living in the same household as such persons, are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a prize.

3. Winner Selection: The winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible Entries received throughout the Promotion Period. The random drawing will be conducted by 48 hours by Sponsor or its designated representatives, whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible Entries received. Winner will be notified by email at the email address provided in the Entry Information on or about 48 hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must accept a prize by email as directed by Sponsor within 48 hours of notification. Any winner notification not responded to or returned as undeliverable may result in prize forfeiture. The potential prize winner may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability, and a Publicity Release (collectively “the Prize Claim Documents”). No substitution or transfer of a prize is permitted except by Sponsor.

4. Prizes:

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) $100 Gift Card to the book retailer of your choice PLUS an Exclusive Stella Maris Handmade Mug] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $125)

– 1 (#) winner(s) will receive [(1) Exclusive Stella Maris Handmade Mug] (approximate retail value or “ARV”: $25)

Only one prize per person and per household will be awarded. Gift cards and gift certificates are subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer. Prizes cannot be transferred, redeemed for cash or substituted by winner. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value if a prize described in these Official Rules is unavailable or cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, for any reason. The ARV of the prize represents Sponsor’s good faith determination. That determination is final and binding and cannot be appealed. If the actual value of the prize turns out to be less than the stated ARV, the difference will not be awarded in cash. Sponsor makes no representation or warranty concerning the appearance, safety or performance of any prize awarded. Restrictions, conditions, and limitations may apply. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prize items.

Prize will only be awarded and/or delivered to addresses within USA & Canada. All federal, state and/or local taxes, fees, and surcharges are the sole responsibility of the prize winner. Failure to comply with the Official Rules will result in forfeiture of the prize.

5. Online Entry: Enter the Sweepstakes during the Promotion Period online by signing into the entry form and perform the tasks provided. The entry form can be found on the following website at .

Automated or robotic Entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Internet entry must be made by the entrant. Any attempt by an entrant to obtain more than the stated number of Entries by using multiple/different email addresses, identities, registrations, logins or any other methods, including, but not limited to, commercial contest/sweepstakes subscription notification and/or entering services, will void that entrant’s Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Final eligibility for the award of any prize is subject to eligibility verification as set forth below. All Entries must be posted by the end of the Promotion Period in order to participate. Sponsor’s database clock will be the official time keeper for this Sweepstakes.

6. Privacy: All entrants acknowledge that if they are chosen as a winner, certain of their personally identifying information may be disclosed to third parties at least as required by law, including, without limitation, on a winner’s list. All personal information submitted as part of the Sweepstakes may be shared by and between the Promotion Entities, and each of the Promotion Entities will use such information in accordance with their respective independent online privacy policies. The privacy policy of Susan Boyer can be found at

7. Limitation of Liability: Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by website users or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes or by any technical or human error, which may occur in the processing of submissions in the Sweepstakes. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for any misdirected or lost mail, or any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay of operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to, or alteration of, Entries. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of email or players on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or combination thereof, including injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating downloading materials in the Sweepstakes. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, then Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes. In such event, Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, perform the random drawing from among all eligible Entries received prior to or after such cancellation, suspension, or modification.

In the event of a dispute concerning who registered online to participate in the Sweepstakes, the registration will be declared to have been made by the authorized account holder is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an internet provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, education institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. A potential winner may be requested to provide Sponsor with proof that the potential winner is the authorized account holder of the email address. If a dispute cannot be resolved to Sponsor’s satisfaction, the entry will be deemed ineligible.

8. Winner’s List: To obtain a copy of any legally required winners list or a copy of the Official Rules, send the applicable request and a self-addresses, stamped, #10 envelope to Susan M. Boyer cc: Lowcountry Bookshop Preorder at 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273, Greenville, SC 29609. Request must be received no later than 48 hours + 6 MONTHS for the name of the winner and, by the end of the promotion, for a copy of the rules.

9. Sponsor: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Susan M. Boyer, 5000 Old Buncombe Road Suite 27-273, Greenville, SC 29609, susan@susanmboyer.com

10. Rafflecopter Disclaimer: This promotion is powered by Rafflecopter. Metric Feat LLC (“Rafflecopter”) does not sponsor, administer or endorse this promotion. By entering this promotion, Participants agree to Rafflecopter’s Privacy Policy (http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/privacy/). For technical information about the Rafflecopter widget, please visit http://blog.rafflecopter.com/2012/08/anatomy-rafflecopter-giveaway/.

11. Facebook Disclaimer: Entrants should understand that they are providing their information to the Sponsor and not to Facebook. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

12. This promotion may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the Sponsor.

When Things Turn Out Better Than Planned

March 2, 2018 in books, Lowcountry Bookshop, The Liz Talbot Mystery Series

When I start writing a book, I have a particular title in mind. In fact, the titles are often writing prompts for me. When I first started working on Liz Talbot’s next adventure, it was going to be Lowcountry Boughs of Holly, and it was going to be a Christmas book. But then there were things I wanted to include in the book that didn’t fit with a Christmas setting, so it became Lowcountry BOLO–as in Be on the Look Out.

But that title didn’t fit the book exactly right, (and to be honest, I had to explain it to a few folks, and that’s never good). After much thought and discussion with everyone involved, we settled on what I think is the exact right title for this particular book, Lowcountry Bookshop.

The characters and plot are exactly the same as when I first started writing the book, but the new title lent itself to this lovely cover, which I’m delighted to share!

It will be up for preorder soon–stay tuned for details and for info on the launch party in Greenville on release day, May 29, at Fiction Addiction, and an exciting pre-launch event in Charleston on May 19. Save the dates!

My best,

Susan