Tag Archives: #mysterywriting

Successful Book Launch for A Killer Whisky

I enjoyed my book launch for my new novel, A Killer Whisky, on Tuesday night. The weather co-operated with relatively mild temperatures and a hint of sunshine. Views from the Treehouse at cSPACE Marda Loop were lovely. It was especially great to see so many smiling, supportive faces and chat with newcomers and friends.

As part of the festivities, we offered “wee drams” of whisky and whisky cocktails named for some of A Killer Whisky’s characters. The most popular cocktail was “Katharine’s Patriotic Canadian Maple Whisky Sour.” Here’s the simple recipe:

Ingredients – yields one serving

1.5 oz whisky

1 oz lemon juice

2-4 teaspoons maple syrup

Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Fill a cocktail shaker or mason jar about 2/3 full with ice.

Add whisky, lemon juice, maple syrup, pinch of cinnamon.

Securely fasten the lid and shake well.

Pour ice into cocktail glass.

Add maple whisky sour mixture.

Enjoy!

This was my favourite cocktail, too, but I refrained from drinking at the launch to stay alert for my discussion of how I came to write A Killer Whisky and the history that forms a backdrop to the story.

My friend and Calgary literary historian, Shaun Hunter, did a fabulous job of hosting the event. Another friend and writer Leslie Gavel kept the slide show moving smoothly. Judith from Owl’s Nest Bookstore created a fine display of my six novels.

Most people seemed to go home feeling satisfied and enthused with the event. I couldn’t ask for better launch my novel, A Killer Whisky.

“I Dig Books”

On today’s virtual book tour, A Killer Whisky visits “Archaeolibrarian–I Dig Books” https://archaeolibrarian.wixsite.com/website/post/review-giveaway-a-killer-whisky-alberta-canadian-historical-mysteries-by-susan-calder Leave a comment on the site for a chance to win the giveaway prize donated by BWL Publishers.

Only one more day to go on my blog tour. Hard to believe it’s almost over.

Busy Day on my Virtual Book Tour

Today I have two blog stops: Dawn’s Reading Nook https://dawnsreadingnook.blogspot.com/?zx=421cc8dee075e536 and Westveil Publishing Westveil Publishing – Jenna Rideout | Illustrator, Book Reviewer, Author, and I’m heading out with my hiking group for a two-hour walk in Griffiths Woods this morning. How do I find the time?

Day # 3 of my Blog Blitz

I am busy today on my blitz tour, visiting two readers’ blog websites: Gina Rae Mitchell and Long and Short Review. You can check out either one or both. https://ginaraemitchell.com/killer-whisky/?like_actor=16376877&like_hmac=a1fed9d05250771e32ad4a374ee25203&postid=63371&commentid=47384&like=1&source=sub_email and A Killer Whisky by Susan Calder – Spotlight and Giveaway

Day Two of my Blog Tour Blitz

If you missed the first day of my blog tour – and even if you didn’t – you can check out the second readers’ website that is hosting my tour. https://fuonlyknew.com/2025/02/25/a-killer-whisky-by-susan-calder-peek-inside-and-giveaway/?fbclid=IwY2xjawIqtHlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHWH76sTf8KtOpejS9CLlTzks1zqi0L4tY3EcvEZZKu0F4dZ3OYIbe62SHw_aem_cnRxQHXw2PNMD9P8dARpwQ&subscribe=already#subscribe-blog-blog_subscription-3 I’ve tried posting some comments but don’t see them on the site yet. Maybe they are screened first. I’m still learning the ropes of doing this.

Between the Covers

On Saturday, February 22nd, I’ll be participating in an online discussion and reading called “Between the Covers” produced by Sisters in Crime Canada West. The event is free and open to everyone, but you need to register here: : https://sistersincrime-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_C0uxgJr6SNatYBJVxTGltQ

Hope to see you online!

Christmas Celebrations – Mexican Style!

My husband Will and I have developed the habit of spending part of November and/or December in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. During our visits these past four years, we’ve noticed that as soon as the Day of Dead (Nov 1-2) celebrations are over Christmas decorations appear on buildings and streets. We northerners find it a bit jarring to see Santa Clauses in snowsuits and boots, reindeer, and our traditional Christmas trees juxtaposed with palm trees and swimsuits. 

 
No doubt Mexicans display these decorations partly for snowbird tourists, but they seem to enjoy the festivity. Our hotel desk clerk was pleased when I admired the suggestion box she’d creatively decorated. I wonder if part of the appeal is that red, green, and white Christmas colours happen to be the colours of the Mexican flag. 

Most Christmas decorations we saw for sale were similar to ones available at Canada Walmart, although occasional stores sold Mexican piñatas. Unfortunately, they were too bulky and fragile for us to bring home in our suitcases to add a Mexican flair to our own Christmas decor.      

Mexico is a predominately Roman Catholic country and Christmas is ultimately a religious celebration. From December 1-12 some 400 processions wind through the streets of Puerto Vallarta and culminate at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. These parades commemorate the appearance of the Virgin Mary to the peasant Juan Diego on December 12, 1531. Our hotel organized a procession for staff members and invited hotel guests to attend. They asked to wear white although the dancers appeared in colourful costumes.

The candlelight processions include both Aztec and Christian costumes and motifs, mariachi bands, and singing by all participants (the organizers gave us song sheets). Food stalls filled the park in front of the destination, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.   

We found it a beautiful way to welcome the Christmas season. With luck we’ll continue our Mexico habit next year. 


Happy Holidays to you!