Welcome to the JustRead Blog Tour for …

Emma Justice is friends with the local librarian and brings her extra flowers once a week. On a hot July morning, when people are gathered outside the closed library past opening time, Emma calls the police. The librarian’s body is found in the building and beside the body is a pink and white bleeding heart plant.

Tess Carranza was a lovely person dedicated to children and patrons of the library in Lutz, Texas. Tess recently confided to Emma about her fear someone was using the library to gather information to commit crimes. Emma didn’t get the entire story from Tess before her death, but now she’s determined to stop the crime and catch Tess’s killer.

What is something interesting readers would enjoy learning about you?

I had only been to Texas once before 2017. That was the year my youngest son and daughter-in-law moved to Waco for a new job. I’ve made many trips to Texas over the years and may average spending a month every year in Texas. During this time, I’ve had three grandchildren born in Texas. So, while I may not be a Texan, my grandchildren are. During my travels, I’ve met so many nice people in Texas, and I’ve grown to love the people and the state.

What makes up your ideal reading environment?

Sitting on the beach with a good book will always be my favorite place to read. Second is to curl up in a comfy chair with a soft pillow. A cup of herbal tea makes it even better. 

What does a day in the life of your characters look like?

When Emma Justice is not solving murders, she’s a flower farmer. She has red hair and fair skin and is prone to burning. She wakes up early and begins to work in her gardens to avoid a sunburn. Her backyard is laid out with some raised beds and some flowers are in the ground. Emma waters the plants and deadheads fading blooms. She wears big hats and sunscreen to prevent burns, but as the day grows hotter, Emma heads inside for a cool shower. Often, she delivers flowers to local businesses during the heat of the day. Later, she’ll tackle office work and she’s getting better at promoting her business on social media. 

What unique research was required to write this story?

Bleeding Heart Librarian is the third book in A Texas Flower Farmer Cozy Mystery Series. I had researched the town and main characters previously, but I try to include new things in each story. I read an article about heirs property disputes in Texas and other states. The first article made me sad. After I researched more, I got mad. My book isn’t making a social statement, but I wanted to include something people might not know much about. 

What is one bit of research you wish you could have included in the story?

I wish I could write about the trials involving heirs property. Part of me wants to write a legal thriller or courtroom drama focused on the people who devise plots to virtually steal property from unsuspecting heirs. 

What encouragement do you hope readers will take away from your story?

There’s no such thing as a lost cause. It’s easier to face challenges with friends. It doesn’t matter if you’re fighting for your land, trying to solve a murder, or dealing with another challenge, having friends on your side gives you strength.