Tag: Books

Cozy mystery

The Writing Process

Jackie Layton

I have a deadline coming up next week. It’s for the third book in An Organized Crime Cozy Mystery Series, Killer Secrets.

One thing I have struggled with in the past is timelines. So, I check and double-check to make sure the timing is right.

I have an editor at Level Best Books who goes through my story for developmental edits and redline edits. Still, when I turn it in, I want it to be as polished as possible.

Getting a book cover is one of the fun things. I’ve been blessed with great book covers, and it’s always exciting to see what the publisher has created.

After a cover is chosen, you get Advanced Readers Copies. Then, you get your author copies near the release date.

Do you have questions about the writing process? Feel free to ask in the comments or via social media.

Uncategorized

Moveable Feast

Jackie Layton

The Moveable Feast is a lunch event hosted by C.L.A.S.S. every two weeks. Community Learning About Special Subjects is led by Linda Ketron, and Bess from My Sister’s Books brings books from her store to the luncheons. Moveable Feast has been around for twenty-seven years, and it’s an honor to be part of the tradition.

I had three books published in 2024, and Linda asked me to speak about all of them. A Suspicious Breed, Clover Covered Corpse, and The Con were all released this year.

The event took place at Wahoo’s Fish House in Murrells Inlet. The view was beautiful, the food was delicious, and the company was amazing!

Bess introduced me, and then I spoke for an hour about myself and my books. Tim, my husband, came and took pictures before, during, and after. There was time for questions, and the audience was engaged. It was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed meeting so many great readers!

It was a lovely event, and I appreciate everyone who took part. And thanks to you for letting me share the fun.

Uncategorized

Fun News

Jackie Layton

I’m participating in a fun book club in 2024 and wanted to make sure to invite you to join me. Join me and author Becki Lee and we Read Across the U.S. in 2024.

One of my favorite parts of reading is the escape it gives. I have been all around the world, several times, in my books. The Read Across the U.S. Book Club will take us to all 50 states in 2024. If you just did some math in your head you’ll understand that this is going to be fast & fun!

Every week Becki will introduce us to a new state and a new book. Over the year you’ll have the opportunity to meet 50 authors and “visit” all 50 states.

Come join me for this adventure and travel all across the U.S.

Link to join the adventure:

https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/227687/98338387438601586/share

And join me for Becki’s podcast. Check your favorite places for podcasts and look for Literary Escapes with Becki . Here’s one option https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/literary-escapes-with-becki/id1571134823

Join us for book fun and South Carolina fun. Have a blessed week!

Uncategorized

Countdown to Superbowl LVIII ?

Jackie Layton

How many hours will people spend watching football between now and February 11?

What questions will they ponder in the next few weeks? What recipes will the create? What books will they read in the pre-Superbowl days?

Let’s have a little fun from a reading point of view. 1992 was the last year the Detroit Lions were in a playoff game. Where were you in 1992? Were you alive in 1992?

Here’s a list of best sellers from 1992.

1992

One of the delightful books for children was The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister.

Adults had books like Dolores Claiborne or Gerald’s Game to choose from. Both are by Stephen King.

In the 1990s I read anything by John Grisham, Diane Mott Davidson, and Mary Higgins Clark. Who could resist titles like Catering to Nobody and Dying for Chocolate, both by Diane Mott Davidson.

I’d love to hear what you remember reading in 1992. What are you reading now? Will you watch the Superbowl, and if yes, who will you cheer for?

Thanks for spending time with me. Leave answers in the comment section or tag me on social media. Thanks!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackielaytonauthor.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JackieLaytonAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/joyfuljel

Uncategorized

Christmas Movie Trivia

Jackie Layton

I thought it might be fun to step away from the holiday stress and play a little trivia game. Let’s see who can get all the answers right.

What is the name of the book that Clarence gives to George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life?  “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.”

In Elf, why does Santa’s sleigh crash in Central Park? A shortage of Christmas spirit.

Christmas with the Kranks is based on a 2001 novel by what bestselling author?  John Grisham

What Disney character plays Ebenezer Scrooge in Mickey’s Christmas Carol? Scrooge McDuck

In The Santa Clause, what is the name of the head elf? Bernard.

According to the song “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” from How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Grinch has all the tender sweetness of what kind of crocodile? A seasick crocodile.

What movie is this famous line from? Nobody’s walking out on this fun, old-fashioned family Christmas. Christmas Vacation

In the movie White Christmas, what are the sisters’ names? Betty and Judy

What book does angel Clarence have with him when he comes to help George in It’s a Wonderful Life? The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Thanks for playing. How’d you do? I hope you’re having a wonderful month as you prepare for your Christmas festivities.

Uncategorized

Decorating With Books

Jackie Layton

When you finish reading a book, do you cram it on a shelf? Loan it to a friend? Give to the library or a shelter? Or do you decorate with books?

Yes, I have some shelves cramed with good books.

One of the problems of moving to a smaller house is the need to find creative ways to display your books.

On this table, one of the pictures got lost behind the others until I elevated it with books.

I also used books on the lower shelf of this table to bring emphasis to a pretty shell.

I also displayed a couple of gifts from my grandmothers by my books. I’m sentimental about these shelves.

My style won’t make a magazine layout, but it makes me happy.

I’d love to hear how you display your books!