This is launch week for A Gold Satin Murder, next in Debra Purdy Kong’s Casey Holland Mystery series. I am honored to be part of the launch group to spread the word. Today, Debra will share behind-the-scenes info about the settings for this wonderful book:
Vancouver’s West End: Diverse, Quirky, and Gorgeous
As Jacqui demonstrates so beautifully in her books, settings are crucial in a novel. It’s certainly true for crime fiction. Because I love Vancouver and lived there for several years, I set my Casey Holland mysteries in Vancouver and the surrounding municipalities. I now live in one of those municipalities, Port Moody, which is about a half-hour drive from the city.
Vancouver is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west and mountains to the north. Inlets surround much of the downtown core and there’s plenty of green space in between. Like many cities, the diverse demographics stretch from the homeless mainly in Vancouver’s downtown east side to the mansions of South and West Vancouver. There are different ethnic areas, each with a unique ambiance, which makes it difficult to describe the entire city in one book. This is why I tend to focus on certain areas.
A Gold Satin Thong features Vancouver’s West End, where the book’s central character, accused murderer Eduardo, lives. I thought I’d dig deeper into this gorgeous community populated by working professional people, seniors, single folks, families, and artists like Eduardo. As you’ll see in the book, Eduardo has chosen rather unique, if not controversial jobs to support himself in this expensive city. Below is the busy Davie Street, where Eduardo catches his bus most days. You’ll see one in the background.
Local residents live in all types of accommodation from new concrete towers to hereditary homes. As you’ll see in the photos below, they are often situated close together, creating different architectural styles on one street. The heritage home below is a classic example. Note the tower in the background.
Here are some of the unique shops on Davie Street.
One of the West End’s borders is the beautiful English Bay, where every year, New Year’s revelers put on swimsuits or costumes to dive into the water on January 1 for the Polar Bear swim, something Eduardo would definitely enjoy doing. In the summer, the Festival of Lights fireworks competition attracts thousands.
While walking through the West End recently, this building caught my attention. This is the type of home an artist like Eduardo would live in. So would I!
Speaking of unique architecture, below is a newly opened grocery store right on the corner of two residential streets within walking distance of Eduardo’s home.
One of Eduardo’s favorite streets to paint.
Much of the residential part of the West End is shaded by trees, which are far less prevalent in the city’s downtown business core.
These photos are just a sampling of Vancouver’s West End. There are many more iconic structures and pieces of art that are worth visiting. Is it any wonder that Eduardo would live here?
Blurb
Transit cop Casey Holland has never met a bus passenger like the charming artist and exotic dancer, Eduardo. The bus driver Lily has certainly befriended him. But when Eduardo’s charged with murder, Lily’s caught in the middle of his legal trouble. Afraid of losing her job and custody of her son, she begs Casey for help in proving Eduardo’s innocence.
Casey’s search for answers takes her and her best friend Kendal to a troupe of strippers known as Man Cave. While the men are busy peeling off their clothes, Casey’s peeling back layers of secrets and betrayal. Nuttier than her usual adventures, the risk is just as deadly in this seventh installment of the Casey Holland transit mysteries.
Chapter 1
After a decade of security work for Mainland Public Transport, Casey Holland had learned that troublesome passengers were usually rude, loud, and poorly dressed. But the gorgeous, broad-shouldered man in the charcoal suit, white shirt, and bright red tie strutting down the aisle was a new, intriguing challenge.
The moment the man spotted Casey, he gave her a broad, toothy smile. Cool. Her silky, low-cut tank top and dangling crystal earrings were doing their job. Undercover assignments rarely involved dressing up, but passenger complaints about a hot guy who’d been badgering women to model for his paintings required a different fashion choice. Besides, the bus was way too warm this late-July evening. The less she had to wear the better.
Casey winked at the man, then tilted her head toward the empty seat next to her. He slowed his pace and nodded to the gaping middle-aged woman he passed by. Judging from a quick survey, the man had caught the attention of most passengers. The men didn’t look as impressed as the women, though.
“Hola, señorita.” Gold-flecked brown eyes glanced at her hands as he sat down. “I am Eduardo from Ecuador.”
“Casey. From Vancouver,” she replied. “How are ya?” To reveal she was a señora who’d been happily married for just over a year might put him off, so the wedding rings stayed home.
“Excelente.” He beamed. “I am here only three months, but I am in love with Vancouver. It has many interesting people.”
“That it does.” His cedarwood and vanilla cologne sent a jolt of nostalgia through Casey. When Dad was alive, she occasionally gave him a bottle of something similarly scented for Father’s Day. She sat up straighter and zeroed in on Eduardo. Not the time for reflection.
“I apologize if my English is not so good,” Eduardo said.
“It sounds fine to me.” She smiled. “Do you live in this part of the city?”
“Si. Only one block away. I love to walk and ride the buses and talk to people.”
He’d have many opportunities to do exactly that in Vancouver’s densely populated West End. Thanks to nearby Stanley Park, the popular English Bay beach, and many eateries, the area attracted tons of tourists as well as visitors from other areas of the Lower Mainland.
“Your eyes!” Eduardo slapped his hand over his heart. “La violeta. Extraordinario! I have not seen such a shade before. I am professional artista. May I paint you? It would be great honor! You are so be-eau-tiful.”
“Thank you.” Great honor and beautiful were the exact words two of the complainants had used in their written statements. “So, how many women have you approached about painting their portraits, especially while riding this bus?”
“Qué?” Eduardo’s smile faded. “Why do you ask me this?”
“I’m with Mainland Public Transport security.” She showed him her ID card. “We’ve had harassment complaints about you. One woman threatened to involve the police if it happened again.”
His eyes widened. “This cannot be.”
“The complaints said you wouldn’t take no for an answer until they either changed seats or left the bus.”
Eduardo sat back in his seat. “I am stupefied!”
Casey didn’t buy the naïve act. “Harassment of any type on MPT buses is against company policy.”
He fidgeted, not quite meeting her gaze. “I am just a single man who loves ladies and to create art.”
Eduardo produced a business card depicting an elegantly designed maple tree with crimson and tangerine leaves. But anyone could create a card and pass himself off as an artist.
“Is difficult to find models in new city. Art schools are filled up.” He frowned. “And many ladies choose to sit next to me and ask what I do to earn money.”
She believed him. Given the lusty stares a couple of women were tossing his way, Eduardo had probably found more than a few willing models and dates.
“Is it wrong to talk about art, or to ask a be-eau-tiful lady on a date? I might break bus rules, but I am not breaking real laws, no?”
Casey sighed. “Are you and I going to have a problem?”
He raised his hands, palms facing her. “I do not want trouble, but I must pursue my art.”
“Eduardo, the rules are there for a reason. They also give me the authority to kick you off any MPT bus if you’re breaking them.” Casey paused. “If you’re going to discuss portrait painting, then be clear about what you want. If you’re turned down, then I strongly advise you to leave the passenger alone. I assume you expect to be paid for your portraits?”
Eduardo nodded. “I do this not only for money but to find true soulmate.” He lowered his head. “I am not so lucky in love. Is heartbreaking road filled with big potholes.”
“Uh-huh.” She studied him. “Do you think you’ll find love on a bus?”
“I search everywhere.”’
Eduardo’s expression and demeanor seemed sincere, but she had her doubts about this guy.
“You must have tried dating apps,” she said.
“Si.” He grimaced. “They were not good. Is better to meet ladies in person.” He gave her a whimsical look. “Everywhere.”
Meaning he intended to keep chatting up women on MPT buses. Eduardo might be better looking and more polite than other rule breakers, but his resistant attitude was all too familiar. She’d be seeing him again, no doubt, and their second encounter wouldn’t be as cordial.
“Just be careful about what you say,” she cautioned. “Misunderstandings happen easily.”
The corners of Eduardo’s full, sensuous mouth turned down. “What shall I talk about? The boring weather? Is what others do.”
“Eduardo, buddy, unless someone speaks to you first, it might be best if you didn’t talk at all.”
My Review
I’ve enjoyed every book in the Casey Holland Mysteries series. A Gold Satin Murder, #7 just came out and now sits on my Kindle. I’ll get back to you with a review soon!
About the Author
Debra Purdy Kong’s volunteer experiences, criminology diploma, and various jobs inspired her to write mysteries set in BC’s Lower Mainland. Her employment as a campus security patrol and communications officer provided the background for her Casey Holland transit security novels.
Debra has published short stories in a variety of genres as well as personal essays, and articles for publications such as Chicken Soup for the Bride’s Soul, B.C. Parent Magazine, and The Vancouver Sun. She is a facilitator for the Creative Writing Program through Port Moody Recreation and a long-time member of Crime Writers of Canada. She lives in British Columbia, Canada.
How to chat with Debra
Blog: https://debrapurdykong.wordpress.com/
Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/debrapurdykong
Website: www.debrapurdykong.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DebraPurdyKong
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DebraPurdyKongAuthor
Email: dpurdykong@gmail.com
Buy links
Kobo Canada: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/a-gold-satin-murder
Kobo U.S. https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-gold-satin-murder
Apple books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/id6443255297
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-gold-satin-murder-debra-purdy-kong/1141951058?ean=2940166433930
Amazon: https://mybook.to/AGoldSatinMurder
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular prehistoric fiction saga, Man vs. Nature which explores seminal events in man’s evolution one trilogy at a time. She is also the author of the Rowe-Delamagente thrillers and Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. Her non-fiction includes over a hundred books on integrating tech into education, reviews as an Amazon Vine Voice, a columnist for NEA Today, and a freelance journalist on tech ed topics. Look for her next prehistoric fiction, Natural Selection, Fall 2022.
Riveting text!
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Thank you, Ankur. I appreciate it!
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Yeah it is!
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Very nice writing!
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It is innit!
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Thank you for your kid comment. I really appreciate it 🙂
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This is fantastic! We need more books and movies set in Canada (fellow Canadian). Sounds like my kind of series, Debra. Thank you for the introduction, Jacqui.
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Thanks, Mark! Yes, I’m all for more books set in all areas of Canada. It’s such an amazing country 🙂
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Great point–about books set in Canada.
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Agreed!
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Hi Jacqui, I am sure I have come across Debra’s books before, maybe on James Cudney’s blog. Anyhow, the book, main character, and setting all sounds very interesting.
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She’s an unusual character. I enjoyed her!
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Hi Roberta, I’ve appeared on Jacqui’s blog before with an earlier book and on a few other blogs. I’m not familiar with James Cudney’s blog, but I will check it out.
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I lived in the West End for about a year, way back in the 1970s. It’s good to see some of those old houses are still there. And A Gold Satin Murder is now in my TBR!
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You’re right about the houses. there was a majesty to the old construction not there with the new.
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Thank you, Audrey! Yes, and there’s been some sprucing up of the old heritage homes to keep the flavor of Vancouver from the early days. They’re quite stunning.
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It’s been a long time since we visited Vancouver; will have to arrange a trip soon!
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I’ve been to Vancouver a couple of times when my sister’s family lived there. I’ll be there again at the end of November. The same sister’s daughter and son-in-law just moved back to Vancouver several months ago. I may be a frequent visitor there. Your photos are wonderful for giving me a tour of the streets I haven’t visited, Debra!
Congratulations on your new book. I still remember you had several options of your title. I like your final choice. I just downloaded your book.
Thank you for hosting, Jacqui!
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Thank you, Miriam. I really appreciate it, and I’m glad you like the final choice in title. You might find changes to Vancouver with your visits as buildings are constantly going up or venues changing their purpose. There’ll always be something to see! And our Canadian dollar is low right now compared to your US dollars, so you might find some bargains 🙂
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I love how you travel around, Miriam. I do so little of it!
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Some travel are visiting family. You visited your family also, Jacqui!
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That’s true, and I’m going again in a few weeks, but once a year–that’s plenty!
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I understand, Jacqui. I’m glad we’re moving. Traveling every six weeks to see the grandkids can be retiring.
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Loved this fabulous blend of useful article and opening story chapter! ❤
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Thank you, Jaya!
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I am so glad you liked it. It hopefully presents everything necessary to get a good sense of the book.
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Thank you for sharing!!.. thank you for allowing us to visit Vancouver through you eyes and congratulations on the new book, wish you much success and all your dreams come true!… 🙂
Until we meet again..
May your day be touched
by a bit of Irish luck,
Brightened by a song
in your heart,
And warmed by the smiles
of people you love.
(Irish Saying)
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Wasn’t that a great idea–the images of Vancouver? It brings the story to life.
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Thank you so much for your kind words and the beautiful saying.
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Excellent writing! Eduardo is used to getting by on his charm. Looking forward to the review.
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Thanks, Pete!
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I have a plane trip cross country coming up. I usually get a lot of reading done on those!
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What a great excerpt – and I loved see all these shots of Vancouver’s west end. Toni x
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Thank you, Toni! I’m very happy that you enjoyed it!
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Debra did good on this one!
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One of the things I loved about this book was the descriptions of Vancouver. I worked downtown for many years and used to love walking around the west end. Great ambience and perfect setting.
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Thank you, Darlene. My sister has lived in the West End for over a decade, though I’m not sure why it took me so long to showcase this area in a book!
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I have heard great things about Vancouver, never got there. This may be as close as I ever get!
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Nothing wrong with armchair travelling!
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Reblogged this on Mystery Deb and commented:
I have the great pleasure of appearing on Jacqui Murray’s wonderful blog today. Today’s topic is about setting, where I showcase Vancouver’s West End. This is the location for A Gold Satin Murder. Thank you Jacqui, and for all the wonderful comments from your readers.
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You have a lot of support here, Debra!
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I’m gobsmacked by it, and so appreciative! 🙂
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Thank you for hosting me, Jacqui. I really appreciate it!
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My pleasure! Thank you for being such a good guest.
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I also forgot yesterday to thank you for the beautiful layout you did for my blog. It’s lovely.
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I’m glad you liked it!
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Ooh, sounds intriguing and loved the tour.
Thanks for sharing, Jacqui.
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I’m glad you liked it Sandra!
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Always good to see you, Sandra!
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Congratulations Debra on your book debut. Vancouver looks like a fun place to visit. Thanks for the peak into your intriguing story.
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It is enticing, innit?
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Thank you, Grace. Vancouver is a fun place, and the West End in particular is one of my favorite spots in Vancouver.
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A big congratulations to Debra! This was an interesting post. I’ve never had the pleasure of visiting Vancouver, but would love to. Best wishes for tons of success to Debra! Thanks for sharing, Jacqui!
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I haven’t either but hear lots of good things about it.
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There are lots of good things, but like every city, it has its downside. There’ve been major challenges with our homeless population, many of whom desperately need homes and mental health services.
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Congratulations, Debra! I’m familiar with Vancouver and love visiting, so thanks for the tour. Fantastic first chapter. 🙂
Thanks for introducing Debra, Jacqui.
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It’s nice to get personal insight into the setting of a story, innit?
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Thank you Lynette. I’m happy you like the opening chapter, and that you’re familiar with Vancouver. It’s changing all the time. Every time I go to visit, there’s something new under construction. There’s also plenty of festivals and other events all summer.
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Congrats on your new release! I’m a west coaster, as well (Victoria), so this interests me. I’m off to check it out!
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One of these days, I will visit there.
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Aug, Sept, and October are my favorite times. Lots of sunshine and heat in August, sunny days and cool nights in Sept. and changing colors in Oct., with still a fair bit of sunshine.
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Thank you, Jacquie. Much appreciated!
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Killer first chapter! I’ve visited Vancouver a couple of times. It’s a cool city! But I wouldn’t want to do the polar bear plunge!
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Especially up there. It takes a certain person to commit to that.
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I’m not courageous enough to try the polar bear plunge either, Priscilla. We now have one in Port Moody every Jan. 1. It’s only 10 minutes from my house but still far too cold.
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A beautiful place for a book setting. Enjoyed the excerpt too! I have this on my Kindle waiting for me 🙂 Thanks for hosting Jacqui!
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My pleasure, Denise. Debra does a good job with her books.
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Thank you, D.L. I hope you enjoy the book!
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Just bought the book. The excerpt tempted me and won.
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Yay!
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Thank you! I really appreciate it!
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That tour of Vancouver took me right back to university days when I lived there for a while. This sounds like an interesting read.
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This visual peek into the setting was a great idea.
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Thank you for your comments. I’m wondering if you went to UBC or Simon Fraser? I used to work at SFU until a couple of years ago.
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UBC, and it was probably long before you were born. 😊
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Ah, well I’m a grandmother now, so I might have been around 🙂
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Haha, thanks for trying to make me feel better.
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LOL! No problem 🙂
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What a pretty tour of Vancouver from Debra. I haven’t visited, but I don’t live far away and hope to get there next summer. An excellent way to pique interest in the character and book. A wonderful except too. Congrats to Debra, and thanks for hosting, Jacqui.
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It has a reputation for beauty and cleanliness. I can see it’s well deserved.
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Thank you, and I’m glad you liked the photos. They’re just a small sampling of things to see in Vancouver. One could easily spend a week or two in the city and see something new everyday.
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I’ll probably only have a few days for the first visit, but I love Canada, so I imagine I’d be back again.
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That’s great. There’s always something new to see!
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So many mysteries always coming out! Too little time to read them all!
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That is so true. I am thankful I have Kindle Unlimited. I used to spend close to $600 many months on books. Now, I have my addiction under control!
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So true, Balladeer. I struggle to find time to read everything recommended to me.
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I know exactly how you feel!
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Wishing Debra all the best with her new release. 🙂
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So nice to see you again, Kymber! Glad everything is working out.
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Thank you Kymber!
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Sounds like Kong has done a excellent job of tying the place to the story. I enjoyed the snippet of conversation.
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This is a good series so I expect this story is great.
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Thanks for the Vancouver walk-thru, Debra and Jacqui! I hope sales of the 7th book exceed all expectations.
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That was fun, wasn’t it–walking through the town? I often use Google Street View to check out an area I want to write about (well, not those 2 mya!).
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Amazing finds with Google Street View, running the gambit of good, bad, and ugly 😃
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Thank you, Grant! Things are going well so far, thanks to the wonderful help and support from people like Jacqui.
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All the best to Debra for her latest release!
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I love the title. Brings John MacDonald–who I adored–to mind.
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I don’t think I’ve read anything by him, although the name rings a bell.
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He wrote easy-going clever detective stories, based in a harbor in Florida. All humorous and so popular, readers went to his harbor address looking for him, in much the way they looked for Sherlock at his famous address.
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They sound like fun!
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Wow, that’s a huge compliment, Jacqui. Thank you. I love John MacDonald, but haven’t read one of his books in years.
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Thank you, Liz!
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You’re welcome, Debra!
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I can see why that was one of Eduardo’s favorite streets to paint. It’s gorgeous! Thanks for introducing us to Debra and her new release, Jacqui. Wishing her all the best!
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With all Debra has going on grandma’ing (sp?), I’m amazed she had time to write, but she did and did it well!
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Thank you, Jacqui. It took a long time to write such a short book because of so many other commitments, including the grandkids, who were visiting yesterday. Today, I spent the morning, picking up print copies from my local printers…and waiting for house contractors to show up, but that’s another story.
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Thank you, Jill. I feel very lucky to live in this part of the world, although I know there are many other beautiful places.
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Reblogged this on NEW BLOG HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
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Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you for sharing the post. I really appreciate it!
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Thanks as well for the information. Enjoy your weekend! xx Michael
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