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Volume 7 • Issue 1
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
🍂 FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK
Happy Wednesday, my wonderful mystery lovers!
Elly here, and Perry is keeping a very close eye on things today. I'm not entirely sure whether he's supervising the newsroom or simply waiting for me to get out of his favorite chair. With that cat, it could go either way!
We've got quite a bit happening around Sunset Cove this week. The fall and Halloween decorating contest is still going strong, and I'm continuing to sort through all those wonderful pictures you've been sending. I have a feeling choosing our winner at the end of the month is going to be considerably harder than I anticipated.
But that's not our only excitement!
Today, we're visiting a charming little Kentucky town where an inherited antique shop comes with a few unexpected complications—including a murder and a black cat who has apparently mastered the art of conversation.
We've also got some exciting news about Slim Chance With a Killer, including an important date for our ARC readers. And for those of you who've already finished the story, I have a little question about something you may have noticed.
So grab your coffee, settle into your favorite reading spot, and let's open today's edition!
🐾 PERRY'S PAW PRINTS
A STATEMENT REGARDING TALKING CATS
"I have reviewed today's featured mystery."
And what did you think?
"This Mortimer fellow seems rather outspoken."
Remind you of anyone?
"Not particularly."
He's a sarcastic cat who involves himself in murder investigations.
"An admirable career choice."
And he talks.
"Some of us prefer to communicate through superior investigative methods."
You mean knocking things off my desk?
"Precisely. Actions speak louder than words."
Then why do you always have so much to say?
"Editorial responsibility."
Naturally.
🔦 TODAY'S MYSTERY SPOTLIGHT
ANTIQUE SHOP INHERITANCE LEADS TO MURDER—LOCAL CAT REFUSES TO REMAIN SILENT!
Featured Mystery: A Familiar Problem: A Cozy Paranormal Mystery
The Whispering Whiskers Mysteries, Book 1
By Clarity Jaine
Imagine inheriting your great-aunt's antique shop, only to discover that it comes with a murder mystery and a black cat who can talk!
That's exactly what happens to Wren Puckett when she returns to Hollow Creek, Kentucky, following the passing of her great-aunt Opal. Wren expects a dusty shop, years of clutter, and some difficult decisions about what comes next. What she doesn't expect is Mortimer, a sarcastic black cat who has been keeping Opal's secrets for forty years.
And apparently, Mortimer has plenty to say.
When Wren discovers a body in the shop's back room, she's suddenly tangled up in a mystery involving suspicious townspeople, hidden secrets, and an antique that may have been better left alone.
A charming Kentucky town, an antique shop filled with secrets, a suspicious death, and a talking cat with an attitude? I have a feeling some of you are going to enjoy this one!
Of course, Perry has already expressed concerns about another feline entering the mystery business.
📰 MORE MYSTERIES MAKING HEADLINES
A FEW MORE CASES FOR YOUR READING LIST!
A FEW MORE CASES FOR YOUR READING LIST!
Our featured mystery isn't the only book making headlines today!
I've got more wonderful mysteries from fellow authors to share with you, and with October in full swing, this is the perfect time to add a few atmospheric, autumn-inspired, or slightly spooky reads to your collection.
Whether you prefer clever amateur sleuths, charming little towns with far too many secrets, or mysteries that keep you guessing until the final chapter, there's always something worth investigating.
Take a look through today's selections and see what catches your eye!
📚 COMMUNITY BOOK EXCHANGE
And because apparently we haven't added enough books to your TBR today, I've got another collection of free mysteries waiting for you!
Our latest book promotions are a wonderful opportunity to discover new authors, explore new series, and find your next cozy read without putting too much strain on your book budget.
Browse the selections, investigate a few covers, and grab the ones that interest you while they're available.
🗞️ NEWS FROM ELLY'S DESK
EXTRA! EXTRA! SLIM CHANCE WITH A KILLER ARC COPIES ARRIVE TOMORROW!
I've got some exciting news for our readers!
Our advance reader copies of Slim Chance With a Killer are scheduled to go out tomorrow, Thursday, October 15!
That's right! Rosalind Harper-Cross and Perry Mason's newest investigation is almost in the hands of our ARC team, and I cannot wait to hear what everyone thinks.
If you've been considering joining our advance reader team, now is the perfect time to sign up. Our ARC readers receive an early digital copy of the book in exchange for their commitment to read it and share an honest review.
We've also introduced a new system to make everything easier. Once you've signed up, you'll receive a separate email with your download instructions when the ARC is delivered. We'll even send a friendly reminder when it's time to leave your review.
All I ask is that you join if you genuinely intend to read and review the book. Those reviews mean so much to independent authors, and I truly appreciate every reader who takes the time to help.
And for those of you who have already signed up, keep an eye on your inbox tomorrow!
🔎 FROM THE CASE FILES
DID YOU CATCH THAT LITTLE HINT?
Speaking of Slim Chance With a Killer...
I have a question for those of you who've already read it.
Did you happen to notice a little something that might be pointing toward our next Sunset Cove mystery?
I'm not giving anything away just yet, but I will say that our next investigation is already beginning to take shape, and there may be a clue or two waiting for particularly observant readers.
If you've finished the book and think you spotted something, feel free to reply and tell me your theory!
Just remember, no spoilers for readers who haven't gotten that far.
And no, Perry isn't telling either. I've already asked him, and he's apparently decided that keeping secrets is part of his job description.
"Confidential investigative information is not released to the general public."
Perry, I'm the author.
"And yet you're still asking questions."
Stay tuned, readers. We'll have more to share when the time is right!
THE DECORATING CONTEST CONTINUES!
Before we close today's edition, a quick reminder that our Fall & Halloween Decorating Contest is still accepting entries!
The pictUres have been wonderful, and I'm continuing to organize all our contenders for the big decision at the end of October.
If you haven't entered yet, there's still time! Whether your home is decorated with cozy autumn leaves and pumpkins or you've gone all out with Halloween decorations, I'd love to see what you've created.
Simply reply to this newsletter with your photo or email it to helloelly@mycozymurdermysteries.com.
Remember, our winner will receive a free digital copy of the Sunset Cove mystery coming after Slim Chance With a Killer, an exclusive Perry Mason Halloween bookmark, and their winning photo featured right here in The Sunset Chronicles.
Detective Perry is reviewing the evidence.
Very thoroughly.
Possibly too thoroughly.
📰 UNTIL TOMORROW...
🗞️ THE NEWSROOM IS CLOSING…
Well, friends, that's another Wednesday edition of The Sunset Chronicles wrapped up!
I've got a few things to prepare before tomorrow's ARC delivery, and Perry has apparently decided that my desk belongs to him again.
Thank you for spending a little of your Wednesday with us. Whether you've been reading along for months or you've only just found your way to Sunset Cove, I'm so happy you're here.
Keep those decorating pictures coming, enjoy today's mysteries, and don't forget to watch your inbox if you're part of our ARC team.
Until next time, keep those detective instincts sharp!
Happy Reading!
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