Black Cat and the Immigrant Child (A Black Cat Mystery) by Elaine Faber Interview & Giveaway

Black Cat and the Immigrant Child (A Black Cat Mystery)
by Elaine Faber

About Black Cat and the Immigrant Child

Black Cat and the Immigrant Child (A Black Cat Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
5th in Series
Setting - Texas
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Michael L. Faber
Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 6, 2026
Print length ‏ : ‎ 254 pages
Paperback
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1940781345
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1940781341
Digital
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1940781365
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0GF72LL1Z

A tale of corruption and deceit met with compassion and tenacity.

Kimberlee, Dorian, and their pets return to Grandmother Lassiter’s multimillion-dollar horse ranch on the Mexico/Texas border to settle her affairs following her demise.

On their first day in Texas, an illegal immigrant, likely carrying drugs, is found murdered on the Lassiter ranch. A six-year-old girl is at his side.

Black Cat and Angel overhear a ranch hand admit to the murder and declare to eliminate the child who witnessed his crime.

Determined to shelter the little girl, the family is thrust into affairs that include intrigue, humor, and mystery. Join the family as they ride with wild horses and search for a notorious Wild West bandit's undiscovered stolen treasure.

Black Cat joins forces with Murphy, his Maine Coon rival and compatriot, and Cedric, the resident barn rat, in an attempt to prevent another murder and capture the miscreant.

Sprinkled generously with Black Cat and Angel’s humorous relationship and interactions, this is another story that will delight Black Cat’s fans, cat lovers, or readers who enjoy light mysteries and humor.

About Elaine Faber 

Elaine Faber lives in Elk Grove with her husband and cat. She is a member of Capitol Crimes, NCPA, and Elk Grove Writers Guild. She volunteers at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop.  Elaine has published 12 cozy mystery novels and an anthology of cat stories. Her books include a WWII historical fiction series, a series of cozy cat mysteries, and two paranormal mystery-adventures.

Interview:

1. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? I started writing short stories in high school and throughout my adult life. Finally, a short story turned into the first cozy cat mystery, Black Cat’s Legacy.

2. How long does it take you to write a book? It depends on many factors, including the work schedule of my editor/mentor.

3. What is your work schedule like when you're writing? As an Indie publisher, I have no specific work schedule and write when I choose. 

4. What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? I need the house to be completely quiet when I work. If my husband receives a phone call, I have to stop until it’s quiet again.

5. How do books get published? Traditional and self-publishing are completely different. In another blog post this week, I have discussed at length the process of self-publishing.

6. Where do you get your information or ideas for your books? I start with a general concept of a plot and begin to write. My characters tend to lead me from plot point to plot point. I use the internet when research is needed to flesh out a process. Some plot points may be from personal experiences.

7. When did you write your first book, and how old were you? I was 72 years old when I published my first novel. Don’t let age stop you from following your dreams. I had already written over 40 short stories, with many published in anthologies and some articles published in magazines.

8. What do you like to do when you're not writing? I like to read mystery books, take care of my husband and cat, Truffie. I volunteer at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop. I like to garden when the weather is good.

9. What does your family think of your writing? Like most families, some love my stories and help me with beta reading and publishing. Others support my work but don’t take an active role in the process.

10. What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books? It takes a lot more than a desire to be published. One must work with other authors, learn the writing craft upside down and backwards. Once you’ve created a wonderful story, you still have to promote it. Just because it’s wonderful, doesn’t make it a best seller. 

11. How many books have you written? Which is your favorite? I have published 12 cozy mystery novels and one anthology about cats, (All Things CAT). Currently working on another that may be published next year. I love they all, as if they were my kids. 

12. Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they? Don’t try to publish your novel too soon. Continue learning from others in critique groups and conferences. Learn the craft. The more you know, the better the odds of being successful. Those who publish too soon often find they have to ‘rewrite’ their book when they gain more knowledge.

13. Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say? Those who comment have given positive feedback. Not nearly enough readers leave reviews, even when they love your books. Don’t forget to compliment your favorite author or leave an Amazon review.

14. Do you like to create books for adults? I love to write for adults, but with enough humor and whimsy that younger readers can read and enjoy my books.

15. What do you think makes a good story? A good story must have conflict. The reader must want to journey with the main character to solve the conflict, but with enough humor and joy to create a pleasant and memorable read.

16. As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up? My goal was to get married and have children, and have several cats. Then, to write short stories. I succeeded with all of it.

17. What would you like my readers to know? I work hard to create a good mystery without extreme violence, explicit sex, or profanity. My characters are all laugh-out-loud funny and will delight any reader who loves history, mystery, cats, and laughter. 

Author Links: Website:    Facebook   Goodreads

Purchase Link - Amazon 

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

February 23 – Books1987 – SPOTLIGHT

February 23 – Books, Ramblings, and Tea – SPOTLIGHT

February 24 – Jody's Bookish Haven – SPOTLIGHT

February 25 – Boys' Mom Reads! – CHARACTER GUEST POST

February 26 – Maureen's Musings – SPOTLIGHT

February 27 – Christy's Cozy Corners – AUTHOR GUEST POST

February 28 – Deal Sharing Aunt – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

March 1 – Cozy Up With Kathy – AUTHOR GUEST POST

March 2 – Sarandipity's – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

March 2 – Sapphyria's Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

March 3 – Escape With Dollycas IntoA Good Book – AUTHOR GUEST POST

March 4 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

March 5 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT

March 6 – MJB Reviewers – SPOTLIGHT
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THE OBSCURA SYNDICATE by Raven Storme Excerpt & Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Raven Storme will be awarding a signed paperback and book plate to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Lira was meant to die for the throne.

Cassian Vale was trained to be the blade that ended her.

But the moment he hesitates—one heartbeat, one breath—everything forbidden ignites.

Now the deadliest man in the Syndicate is the only thing standing between Lira and a prophecy that demands her blood. He should fear her. He should kill her. Instead… he can’t stop wanting her.

She’s the girl marked for sacrifice.
He’s the weapon shaped to obey.

Together, they become the spark that threatens to burn Obscura to ashes

As Lira’s power awakens and the throne tightens its grip, their desire becomes its own kind of danger—raw, consuming, and impossible to survive untouched. Enemies hunt them. Shadows follow them. And the kingdom whispers one truth:

If Cassian doesn’t ruin her, she’ll ruin him.

A dark, seductive story of prophecy, power, and a love so intense it could topple a kingdom.

Read an Excerpt

The blade was colder than I expected.

Cassian Vale stood close enough that I could feel his breath against my temple, slow and steady—unbothered by the fact that he was about to end my life. His hand didn’t shake. His voice didn’t rise.

“Any last words?” he asked quietly.

I laughed.

It startled him. I felt it in the brief hitch of his breath, the infinitesimal pause before instinct took over again.

“You look disappointed,” I said. “Were you hoping I’d beg?”

His grip tightened at my throat—not enough to hurt, just enough to remind me how easily he could. “I don’t enjoy this,” he said.

“Then why are you here?”

His mouth hovered near my ear. “Because Obscura demands obedience.”

My pulse raced—not with fear, but with something sharper. Dangerous.

“And what do you demand?” I whispered.

The blade lowered.

For the first time in his life, Cassian Vale hesitated.

About the Author:

Raven 🐦⬛ Storme writes dark, smut-heavy romance for readers who crave obsession, power struggles, and secrets whispered in the dark. Living in Pennsylvania, she’s been married for fourteen years and shares her life with fourteen dogs—because calm has never been her aesthetic. Her debut series, The Obscura Syndicate, dives into forbidden desire, shadowy loyalties, and characters who blur every moral line. Raven believes love is messy, passion is dangerous, and the best stories live in the dark.

Website: http://Ravenstorme.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@raven.storme
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ravenstormeauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smut.luvin.books

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Obscura-Syndicate-Dark-Gothic-Romance-ebook/dp/B0GH2HS8PW/ref=sr_1_1

How is everyone doing? Some shopping and Gold Necklace ideas!

This has been a very snowy week in Connecticut. First, we had Blizzard Calvin! Which we heard a mom went into labor during the blizzard. We have a fantastic response team in our town. I can not say enough nice things about them. Then today we had another 3 inches of snow. Not to mention my hubby had stitches taken out of his hand while it was snowing. I waited in the car, because I am a klutz and was afraid that I would fall. There is something so pretty about new snowfall, before the sand gets it dirty. While I was in the car, I browsed on line and found a great jewelry site. I found Beautiful Necklaces .

I must admit that I love charms, and I love coffee. This is a perfect charm for me. I also liked that I can get chains, which I can always use, and great gems. I also really like Pandora charms! Everyone knows that I really love turtles! I have loved turtles since I was on my way home from grade school one day and, my dad saved a turtle that was in the middle of the road. How pretty in this charm?

I have also loved Origami Owl for years. I love being able to pick out little charms that remind me of my hubby, my nieces and nephew, or my dad. I have a necklace with Harry Potter charms! I have cats and pumpkins. There are so many different ways to express myself.  

There are also some really cool charms from Avon. They have a Cherished Memories line of charms that I really like. There are very few times that I not reading or crocheting. Today was a good day to do some online browsing while watching it snow.

I would love to hear about your favorite charm, or gold necklace. Please leave a comment letting me know. I will enter each commenter into a wheel giveaway. The winner will receive a set of 2 crocheted top towels from me. Be sure to include your email in your comment so I can contact you. 

Disclaimer: As always these opinions are all my own. 

The Radiance of Grace by Margaret Cotton

Historical Novel / Literary

Date Published: October 22, 2025

Before the First Amendment, three courageous women helped shape its soul.

The Radiance of Grace is the powerful, true story of Mary Dyer, Katherine Scott, and Anne Hutchinson—three extraordinary women whose faith, friendship, and moral courage challenged the rigid Puritan authority of 17th-century New England.

More than 150 years before the American Constitution, these Boston women stood for freedom of religion, conscience, and speech, refusing to surrender their personal relationship with God to institutional control. Their activism—rooted in scripture, compassion, and community—sparked social and political reform at a time when women were expected to remain silent.

Leading Bible studies attended by more than 150 people each week, they became influential voices within their communities. When Puritan leadership responded with harassment, exile, and public punishment, the abuse meant to silence them instead strengthened their resolve. Their lives intertwined with men who admired them, men who despised them, and families who endured the cost of conviction.

Drawing from **extensive historical research—including journals, court records, letters, and firsthand accounts—**and woven together with informed imagination, Margaret Cotton brings these overlooked women vividly to life. Their story reveals the deepest roots of American liberty and challenges modern readers to consider:

● What does it mean to live faithfully under unjust authority?

● How far are we willing to go for freedom of conscience?

● What is the personal cost of standing for truth?

The Radiance of Grace is an intimate, inspiring historical narrative for readers of:

● Women’s history

● Early American and colonial history

● Faith-based and Christian nonfiction

● Social justice and religious freedom

● Readers drawn to untold stories that shaped the foundation of America

These women were nearly erased from history—but their legacy still calls us to courage, purpose, and grace.

It is time to hear their true story.

About the Author

Margaret Cotton is an author and lifelong storyteller who writes books she longs to read—stories of compelling characters facing complex moral choices. The Radiance of Grace is her first historical narrative. It is an invitation for readers to engage with history, conscience, and transformation. Margaret describes her writing process as both surrender and gratitude—a deep immersion where research, imagination, doubt, and discovery converge until clarity emerges.

Her writing journey is rooted in both scholarship and wonder. A recipient of a National Endowment for the Humanities Grant for Independent Study, Margaret spent years researching female faith activism in 17th-century New England—a topic that would eventually become The Radiance of Grace. Although she attempted the story earlier, she paused for two decades, trusting that the time was not yet right.

Her confidence grew during the writing of her first book, Raised!, a true miracle memoir that revealed an uncanny alignment between informed imagination and the creative flow of unexpected truth. With advice from a seasoned New York editor and an evolving sense of purpose, Margaret subsequently returned to this historical work—where, she says, “The story finally developed as it was meant to be told and at the right time.”

Margaret Cotton was a featured presenter at reading and writing workshops, professional conferences, and continuing education events in multiple states and Central America. Her copyrighted educational materials emphasize the value of a cognitive conversation between the writing and comprehension processes for middle grade students. She is equally comfortable speaking to book clubs and historical societies.

As a Certified Professional Photographer (PPA), Margaret photographed more than 250 weddings, including international venues—an experience that deepened her understanding of human connection, resilience, and the deep longing for story within all cultures. She lives with her husband of over fifty years, is the mother of two, grandmother of seven, and believes that curiosity, faith, and purpose only deepen with time.

 

Contact Links

Website

Purchase Links

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

VINNY'S WORLD TOUR by Jacqueline Marie Excerpt & Giveaway

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Jacqueline Marie will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

View an Excerpt

About the Author:

Jackie Wallace is a serial entrepreneur, podcaster, and author whose passion for learning through trial and error has consistently driven her to transform obstacles into opportunities. As a business o"wner and self-starter, she’s passionate about sharing insights with ambitious professionals and spotlighting their unique success stories. To date, she has interviewed over 300 people who took the leap of faith to pursue their passions.

With over 35 years of leadership experience, she is also a certified life coach who helps others gain clarity, build confidence, and move forward with purpose.

Her professional background includes a B.S. in General Management from Wayne State University in Detroit Michigan, and a Certification for Professional Life Coach from World Coach Institute Inc.

Above all, Jackie is most proud of being a wife, a mother of three, and the owner of two rescue dogs.

For upcoming releases or more information, you can visit her website, check out her podcast, or follow her on Facebook.

Website: https://www.gamechangercoaching.today/
Podcast: https://boldleap.podbean.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChangeTheGameCoaching