Character Comes First: A Reflection from Tule Author Aimee O’Brian

January 7, 2025 · Posted by Tule Publishing

All romance authors have their own unique process for writing a novel. From detailed plotting to no idea what comes next, or from orderly writing schedules to weeks of procrastination, we all somehow make it work and use that process to create a finished product ready for our readers to immerse themselves in. But for me, character always comes first. 

Characters come to me in bits and pieces; a lifelong dream, the curve of her face, a misstep in his walk. But it is only when I give characters their names that they become fully formed individuals, ones you might meet in real life. I start with a basic idea of what they look like and what their life goals are. Once I’ve named them, which can take hours to days, the intricacies of their personalities take shape. But what is most curious to me is that little bits of my own personality start to seep in. It’s unavoidable. Even when I try to make them truly different from myself, something of me makes it into their personality. Every character I write has a tiny bit of me; and yes, that includes villains and antagonists. 

Ivy Wayland, the female protagonist in The Magical Tea Shop, is earnest, thoughtful and sincere. Certainly, this is not how I describe myself. Further, Ivy opens a tea shop, something I would never do, as my only experience in food service is volunteering at concession stands at my kids’ extracurricular activities. But Ivy’s business is sporadic, and she struggles with success and that I do relate to. She also loves to bake which is something I enjoy. To round out her character, I show her baking—mixing ingredients, stirring, rolling out dough, cutting out cookie shapes.  This incorporation of my own experience becomes a key ingredient in the plot. So naturally, it isn’t long before the reader discovers Ivy has a sense of humor and underneath all that earnestness, a tiny bit of snark. This is all me. 

Like me, Ivy has a high-achieving older sister and feels over-shadowed by her sister’s many accomplishments. Ivy emulates her bakery-owning sister by opening a similar business much in the way I shaped my own educational goals by using my sister as an example of success. And, despite the competitiveness of their relationship, they’re close. Other characters reflect me as well. The male protagonist Jaxon’s desire to belong, and the elderly members of the Hazard Historical Society’s quirky behavior—much of that is me. Even Ivy’s high school nemesis choosing to do her grocery shopping with a hardwood basket, that too, is me.

So, today, I want to share a little bit of me with you, something I included in my story. Ivy describes Jaxon’s hair as the color of sugared ginger crinkles and his eyes the color of a well-steeped Irish breakfast tea. So for the perfect combo of tea and cookies, here is my recipe for the sugared ginger- crinkles that Ivy sells in her tea shop. 

Ingredients:

    • 2 ¼ cups flour
    • 2 teaspoons baking soda
    • Dash salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
    • Dash nutmeg
    • 1 cup packed brown sugar
    • ¾ cup olive oil
    • ¼ cup molasses
    • 1 egg; or for vegan cookies, mix 1 tablespoon flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let sit about 10 minutes until thickened to a gel-like consistency.

Directions:

    1. In a small mixing bowl, stir together dry ingredients (the first 7 listed above). Set aside.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients, stir. Fold in dry ingredients, mix well.
    3. Chill for at least two hours.
    4. Form 1-inch balls, roll in granulated sugar, and place about 2 inches apart on baking sheet.
    5. Bake in a 375-degree oven for 10-14 minutes.
    6. Recipe makes 4 dozen cookies. 
    7. Serve with a well-steeped Irish Breakfast tea. Enjoy!

~ Happy New Year ~

About the Author.

Having lived in both California and Texas, Aimee O’Brian now resides in the beautiful wine country. With her three children grown and experiencing their own adventures, she and her husband are free to explore the world. When she’s not reading, writing, or planting even more perennials in her garden, she can be found stomping through ancient ruins and getting lost in museums.

Tule Author Q&A: Jillian David has a strong tie to writing medical romance and shares some insights leading to her Tule debut!

January 3, 2025 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Jillian, your background in medicine clearly influences your writing. How did you transition from the medical field to becoming an award-winning and bestselling author? I didn’t transition — not really! I’m a practicing rural doctor who also writes romance. I’ve practiced for (mumbles) years and I’ve been writing since around 2011, with my first book published in 2015. Some days are super strange. I might have complicated inpatients or a crash c-section or a full clinic schedule, then I come home and I’m like — okay, time to edit some pages of fiction! Or, there are times when I’m drafting a novel, and I get called away on an emergency.

You write across several romance subgenres: medical, paranormal, and romantic suspense. How do you approach blending these elements in your stories? It comes naturally. My inclination is to try and put a spin on the story, whether it’s some otherworldly element or adventure or suspense. Even in this recent Yukon Valley Hospital medical romance series, I put quite a bit of suspense in it. I can’t help myself! But one thing has been a constant: in all of my books, even the paranormal ones, there are always medical components to the stories. When I write medical characters or medical scenarios, I lean into what I know best but also make the book enjoyable and realistic for readers!

Medical situations play a significant role in your books. Can you share how you decide which medical scenarios to include and how you ensure their accuracy? First of all, HIPAA disclaimer: I have never written an identifiable scenario from my own practice. Now, that being said, I definitely have drawn on life experiences! In terms of what to include, there are parts of medicine that lend themselves well to romance novels — pregnancy/birth, emergency room work, first responders, small-town practices. Then there are other aspects that don’t work quite as well — colonoscopies, skin rashes, foot fungus. I mean, hey, I can be realistic, but at the end of the day, I don’t want readers grossed out!

Your books are known for their dramatic and intense scenes. How do you balance the medical accuracy with the need for compelling storytelling? Sheer luck and amazing editing.

How excited are you to be writing for Tule?! What can readers expect from your Tule debut in January? I’m so excited to be writing for Tule! Everyone has been welcoming and kind. For my medical romance releasing in January, Dr. Alaska, readers can expect classic Jillian David: suspense, snappy dialogue, funny secondary characters, steamy romance, and realistic medical scenarios that make you feel like you’re RIGHT THERE treating the condition!

What inspired you to write in the romance genre, and what do you find most rewarding about creating love stories? I love writing romance because life is stressful. My professional life is stressful and readers’ lives are stressful. I want to create books with payoff for my readers: hard-fought happy endings, the bad person gets what’s coming to them, and characters who have to challenge their inner demons to be with the person who ends up being the perfect fit for them. The best reward is when a reader tells me how much they enjoyed the experience of reading my book and how it made them feel (happy, emotional, on pins and needles, etc.). For me, that’s the secret sauce of writer happiness right there.

Did/has anything surprised you in your upcoming romance for Tule? Did you discover something about one of your characters along the way? I was surprised by how exposed I felt while writing Dr. Alaska. Out of all the books I’ve ever written, this one has been the hardest to craft, mostly because I drew from more emotions and experiences in my life than any other book to date. There was a point when I was drafting the book and it just wasn’t flowing. I had to make a conscious decision to let myself be vulnerable when writing this book. I reminded myself that I could always edit it later!

How do you keep your medical knowledge up-to-date, and how does this continuous learning influence your writing? I have to do quarterly CME (continuing medical education) to maintain my license and board certification. Also, I teach medical students and residents. If ever there’s a way to stay on your toes as a doctor, it’s having a learner ask lots of questions. Apparently me saying, “Because I’ve always done it this way” is not an acceptable answer! As for writing, my hunger to keep learning gets fed when I attend craft workshops, read marketing articles, and spend time listening to other successful authors.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors who want to incorporate their professional expertise into their fiction? Using professional expertise is an excellent way to enter fiction writing, but also a great way to establish your brand. One example that comes to mind is Rachel Grant who was an archeologist and writes series that are chock-full of antiquities, cultural implications of archaeological finds, and settings where artifacts are being unearthed. Her expertise brings her fiction to life!

BONUS: What is one comfort read that you will reach for over and over again? I can’t pick just one! Anne Bishop’s Black Jewels series, Robin McKinley’s Damar duology. And I’ve re-read JR Ward’s Lover Eternal more times than I can count!

Cheers to the new year and NEW romance releases from Tule!

January 2, 2025 · Posted by Tule Publishing

GIVEAWAY: Because who doesn’t love FREE books?

We will pick ONE winner to receive a digital book of their choice from the January romance releases. Comment down below saying which book you’re looking most forward to reading! Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY. The winner will be randomly selected and announced at the end of the month.

Good luck and happy reading!

In the small town of Hazard, finding your soulmate might require magical intervention.

She loves to stir this Colorado cowboy up…

Grey’s Anatomy, meet Northern Exposure…

Destiny’s River, Texas: A chance to begin a new life—and new loves.

She’s not looking for love, but a handsome veterinarian and a lost puppy have other plans…

Is she ready to take a risk?

They have seven days to break the curse…

New Year, New Mysteries: Check Out Our January Mystery Releases

January 1, 2025 · Posted by Tule Publishing

As the new year kicks off, there’s no better way to start fresh than with a stack of books waiting to be devoured. So get ready to settle into that cozy reading nook, grab a nice warm cuppa jo’ and some snacks, because you’re gonna be busy for a while. If you’re looking for the perfect page-turner to energize your reading goals for the year, January’s book releases are here to deliver. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming cozy mysteries, the literary world has something for everyone to kick off 2025. Get ready to mark your calendars, because these upcoming releases are sure to make your reading list a little longer—and a lot more exciting! Here’s a sneak peek at the most anticipated books of the month.

Whipping Up Worry by Emmie Lyn– Little Dog Diner series, book #8

Release Date: January 6th, 2025

April showers bring murder near the lighthouse flowers!

A missing teenager shows up at Dani Mackenzie’s Sea Breeze home on Blueberry Bay, but the runaway is too terrified to reveal anything about herself. The police, however, aren’t the least bit shy when they arrive right behind her, searching for Claire. It seems the teen was hiding at the Kitty Point Lighthouse—exactly where a body was discovered.

There’s a long list of people who are happy this victim, the Misty Harbor town manager, is dead, but Claire’s circumstances make her the prime suspect. Dani hesitates to bring more drama into her world, but after she learns that Claire is related to a dear friend in Misty Harbor, she agrees to hide the young woman to keep them both safe from harassment or worse. 

But the evidence keeps coming, whipping everyone’s fear into a frenzy. Dani, along with her Jack Russel terrier, Pip, jump into high gear to unravel a deadly tangle of greed before another body is found. 

This time it could be Dani’s.

Retirement Can Be Deadly by Vickie Carroll– Retirement Can Be Murder series, book #2

Release Date: January 8th, 2025

What if retirement isn’t the utopia it’s cracked up to be?

Helen Rogers never imagined that she’d be bored at Sunny Days Retirement Village in lovely Peachtree Valley, Georgia, but she wasn’t expecting to start this phase of life as early as her fifties, either. Then fate gave her a hand in solving her friend’s murder, and the sense of accomplishment was heady.

But was it a fluke?

Fate answers again when she stumbles over her second dead body, the city’s deputy mayor. The corpse is barely cold before the mayor’s wife is killed in a suspicious accident. Bodies are piling up—so Helen and her buddy, Carol Adams, take the next step: enroll in PI classes, apply for her license, and open an official investigation firm.

Helen has found her purpose, and it comes with new partners and a handsome assistant, Ted Morgan.

Yet business will grind to halt before it gets off the ground unless she can break open the truth. Plenty of folks have a motive, but which one of the suspects is desperate enough to plan such elaborate murders?

Cupcakes & Chaos by Lisa Siefert– Frosted Misfortunes Mysteries series – book #1

Release Date: January 13th, 2025

Her new employer has met her maker, and she’s the only suspect. Can she sift out the truth and serve the villain their just desserts?

Ava Decker longs to fulfill her lifelong dream of owning her own bakery. Ready for a fresh start, the former forensic accountant turned pastry chef is excited to turn life’s lemons into sugary success. But her hopes crumble when her mean boss turns up dead in the back of the delivery truck Ava was driving.

Arrested as the prime suspect, things get worse when the police discover the victim left Ava the shop and her house in her will. And with only an adorable kitten who thinks he’s a dog and an exasperated best friend as the voice of reason, the newly bequeathed owner must turn super-sleuth to clear her name.

Can Ava solve the crime before she’s baking behind bars?

Cupcakes & Chaos is the delicious first book in the Frosted Misfortunes cozy mystery series. If you like cute animal sidekicks, an appetizing listen to curl up with, and hilarious hijinks, then you’ll love Lisa Siefert’s perfectly dusted recipe.

Frightened to Depths by K.B. Jackson– The Cruising Sisters series, book #3

Release Date: January 20th, 2025

Murder is never smooth sailing…

Charlotte McLaughlin assumes she’s finally shed all her tears on the first anniversary of her husband’s passing. After all, she’s living in his luxury suite on a private cruise ship, visiting exotic ports, and living her best life with her sister, Jane.

Certainly, she’s done with murder mysteries, too.

Then, while docked in New Orleans, Jane reunites with an old crush who—surprise!—joins their cruise. He’s an odd duck with an obsession to write a book about Louisiana werewolves, and it’s turning the sisters’ companionship into a snarling catfight. It’s almost a relief that Emmett is the prime suspect when a trumpet player booked as a headliner for this sailing is silenced forever by a silver bullet to the heart.

But the band members themselves also had plenty of reasons to seek their leader’s death, and Jane stands by her man, leaving Charlotte alone again. Is Charlotte merely hoping Emmett is the killer so she can hang on to her new normal—or should she risk a permanent rift by pursuing her hunch to protect Jane’s life?

A Golden Guilt Trip by M. Alfano– The Pecan Texas Pet Groomer Cozy Mystery series, book #5

Release Date: January 22nd, 2025

In A Golden Guilt Trip, life in the small town of Pecan, Texas, is anything but ordinary for dog groomer and aspiring business owner, Leslie Winters. Juggling her growing mobile grooming business, her soon-to-be husband Detective Adam Waltz, and her quirky circle of dog-loving friends, Leslie is ready to put down roots. But when Councilman Rodriguez—who couldn’t tell a dog comb from a rake—starts blocking her plans for a new storefront, things quickly take a turn for the worse.

In a moment of unfiltered honesty, Leslie can’t resist giving her unflattering opinion of the councilman’s grooming skills. Unfortunately, that little remark might have just earned her a one-way ticket to the top of the suspect list when the councilman turns up dead, and she’s the one with the motive.

With the police closing in and the scent of scandal in the air, Leslie teams up with her tail-wagging companions and her loyal group of friends to sniff out the truth. But with a killer on the loose and her own future on the line, can Leslie clear her name before she’s locked up and forced to eat kibble in the jailhouse? Or will she be left barking up the wrong tree? It’s up to Leslie—and a few good pups—to solve this case, one clue (and dog treat) at a time.

Murder Under the Marquee by J.C. Kenney– Elmo Simpson Mysteries series, book #2

Release Date: January 27th, 2025

In Murder Under the Marquee, wild animal removal specialist Elmo Simpson once again finds himself tangled in a murder investigation, but this time, it’s personal. When the body of Desiree LaFontaine, the former first mate of Elmo’s girlfriend, Nic, is discovered washed up on the beach near the Paradise Springs marina, the quiet Florida town is shaken to its core. To Elmo’s horror, Nic is quickly swept up in the investigation as the prime suspect, being the last person seen with the victim.

Though the evidence seems damning, Elmo refuses to believe that Nic is capable of murder. As he digs deeper, he uncovers a cast of suspicious characters—Craig Abbott, the shady tour boat owner with a bitter grudge against Nic; Bobby Darrin, Desiree’s elusive ex who’s disappeared into the shadows; and Drunk Paul, the oddball marina regular whose behavior seems more erratic than usual.

With time running out and Nic’s freedom hanging in the balance, Elmo is plunged into the seedy underbelly of Paradise Springs’ tight-knit, yet cutthroat, tourist industry. As he pieces together a trail of lies and betrayals, Elmo must confront his own fears and fight to uncover the truth—before the tides of fate pull both him and Nic under for good. The clock is ticking, and in a town where everyone has something to hide, Elmo must take a dangerous plunge into the heart of darkness to save the woman he loves.

 

New Year, New Love: Seven Romances to Anticipate in 2025

December 30, 2024 · Posted by Tule Publishing

It’s a good thing romance never goes out of style, no matter what year we find ourselves in! And here at Tule, we pride ourselves on having the very best and brightest romance novels, especially our newest releases you haven’t met yet!

Get ready for the new year, because we have seven intense, charming, and swoon-worthy romances coming to your shelves in 2025.

These books are immediate adds to any TBR and will give you sweet, spice, and everything in between.

One-Night Crush by Mia Heintzelman

RELEASING: February 11, 2025

After a banner year, Marcello Fortemani is eager to prove his value at his family’s Napa vineyard. The youngest of four siblings, he’s used to having his ideas ignored. But when he suspects a collaboration with local competitor Whitaker Vineyard & Winery, Marcello quickly volunteers to take the lead.

Excited for his big shot, he pre-celebrates at the bar where he runs into Holly Whitaker—the babysitter of his preteen dreams. She’s back in Napa, and… doesn’t recognize him?  Marcello isn’t about to remind her, either. Especially, when she brings his fantasies to life with a fiery one-night stand.

But the day before the quarterly meeting, he learns his family’s vineyard isn’t partnering but acquiring hers. Now, she feels deceived, and he’s shocked to find they’re both vying for international exports director. What started as a steamy night escalates into a battle of pranks and tactics as they gear up for a brand test at Vintner’s Weekend in Tuscany.

Despite the competition, their chemistry is undeniable—she lets him take care of her, and he finds belonging. But will they fight to win, or call a truce for love?

Heintzelman’s latest installment in her Fortemani Family series follows the youngest Fortemani sibling as he seeks to establish his own legacy in the family business. Full of family drama, pining tropes, and rivals in competition, One-Night Crush offers the very best of the romance genre. Pre-order HERE for its February 2025 release!

A Saltwater Christmas by Laurie Beach

RELEASING: February 20, 2025

Christmas is a time of miracles–but is it magical enough to change a person’s mind?

Allie Westley’s Christmas will be a bit different this year. She’s taken a big step to move away from Nashville to Goose Island, South Carolina, to pursue her dream of becoming a wine enologist, and she’s not tripping over this chance to make a break from her family, either. She’ll spend December 25 doing her own thing. Although the beach might be cold, it is the perfect place for new traditions.

But she was also counting on her new roommate, Sam Clare, to be a sister she never had. Instead, Sam is an ex-military man now working as a paramedic. Even his dog, Buttercup, is part wolf. Yet he turns out to be the most understanding person in her new world, despite the fact that she’s declared him her enemy.

As the season’s activities bring them together, Allie uncovers several details her new circle of friends weren’t forthcoming about. But will the secret Sam’s keeping break her heart or mend what she didn’t realize was broken?

Beach’s newest release combines a holiday, small-town setting, miscommunication tropes, and a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance. Pre-order HERE!

How to Lose a Cowboy in Ten Days by Kaz Delaney

RELEASING: March 4, 2025

Liberty Fox knows better than to be taken in by a handsome face and a hot body, especially when the cowboy’s playboy reputation proceeds him. She’s on a mission to discover her real identity, and doesn’t want the distraction of a charming, cheeky cowboy who makes her laugh and yearn for a place to belong.

Successful livestock broker and rancher, Jack Halligan, knows there’s something missing in his life, but gorgeous Liberty Fox is definitely not it, no matter how perfect she feels in his arms. Still, offering his ranch house as a sanctuary when her life is threatened by a stalker, is understandable.

Appointing himself her bodyguard and spending time with the beautiful and compassionate Liberty is turning Jack’s world upside down, but maybe the collision of their two very different worlds is to blame. Neither Jack nor Liberty know whether they should run towards each other or run away.

Reminiscent of How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, Delaney’s newest Montana-Born release combines a heroine in search of herself, a charming male protagonist with a reputation, and a one-of-a-kind situation that forces the two together. Pre-order TODAY in preparation for its March 2025 release!

A Summer to Remember by Cassidy Carter

RELEASING: March 20, 2025

Careful what you wish for…

When single mom Delaney Phillips recommends that her boss and best friend, Wyatt Andrews, audition for a reality show that rescues dying businesses, she’s trying to save more than just precious childhood memories. Her home and job are also on the line. But when the slick host arrives full of ideas guaranteed to change the character of the resort, Delaney is worried. Worse, the host has romantic designs on Wyatt, and Delaney realizes she’s deeply in love with her best friend.

All Wyatt has ever wanted was to run his family’s Cabins in the Pine Resort, but when a highway bypass leaves them too far off the beaten path, he’s in danger of losing everything. Delaney’s brainstorm sounds crazy, and it’s crazier when his business is chosen to be “fixed.” When the glamorous host and her crew arrive, they are hilariously unequipped to handle nature or the remote location, but more concerning—his friendship with Delaney is unraveling.

Can Wyatt save his family’s legacy and friendship with Delaney? Has Delaney waited too long to show Wyatt how much he means to her?

Pre-order Carter’s debut release HERE!

Love at First Flight by Janine Amesta

RELEASING: April 15, 2025

Can the most awkward ‘Meet Cute’ lead to something real?

When Selah Moreno‘s father unexpectedly dies, she abandons her dream job as an airline pilot to helm her family’s struggling hot air balloon business. While piloting is in Selah’s blood, the pressure of being everyone’s rock leaves little room to breathe. It’s no wonder she gets caught up in the daydream of flirting with a handsome potential client…until she finds out he’s booking a proposal flight.

Smith Rock park ranger Dex Westerly wants to take his relationship to the next level, but nothing goes right. His proposal is rejected and a rogue wind tips the basket upon landing, sending the pretty and curvaceous balloon pilot into his lap where she makes an ill-timed joke, increasing his humiliation.

Months later, Dex and Selah bump into each other and bond over business struggles. Dex proposes a marketing partnership to promote her balloon tours while raising funds for the park’s new wildlife rescue program. Sparks fly between them, and when a promotional social media post goes viral, they’re pushed into a pretend whirlwind romance that starts to feel too close to love.

Pre-order Love at First Flight HERE!

Paging Dr. Breakup by Jillian David

RELEASING: April 29, 2025

Widow Deirdre Steen has spent the last five years making sure she’s the best chief nursing officer Yukon Valley Hospital has ever seen. It cost her a personal life—and protected her heart. But now her childhood friend, Dr. Calvin Garrett—the one who got away—is temporarily lending his emergency medicine skills to their rural hospital in Alaska’s interior. The community’s relentless matchmaking network loves a challenge, which leaves Deirdre with one viable option: a fake dating pact with Calvin until the spring Breakup Festival and his inevitable departure to his regular job and his life in Seattle.

Calvin moved away years ago rather than watch his best friend marry Deirdre. Now, amazingly, she’s in Calvin’s bed and the center of his world.  Yet a woman like Deirdre deserves forever—as well as a man who didn’t finish as runner-up the first time around.

Can an Alaskan spring thaw help two wounded healers thaw the ice surrounding their hearts and fulfill this second chance at love?

David’s Paging Dr. Breakup combines the fast-paced hospital setting of Grey’s Anatomy, the fake-dating trope of Emily Henry’s Funny Story, and the brisk weather of Yukon Valley, Alaska. Pre-order HERE!

The Seal’s Promise by Stella Holt

RELEASING: May 22, 2025

He never expected to return to his hometown, but now he can’t leave her behind again.

Dr. Dalton Hart left his small Southern beach town fifteen years ago to become a Navy SEAL. Now he’s back, and Sandy Point is buzzing over his return. He thought he came home to help his family, but his oldest brother will barely speak to him and his childhood friend is trying to avoid him. Worse, if he wants to stay, he’ll have to face the secret that’s haunted him ever since he left.

Brooke Garcia can’t believe this ripped, blue-eyed SEAL is back in her life or that she’s stuck working with him. She’s no stranger to smooth-talking hometown heroes—she married one, and he broke her heart. Now a single mom, she doesn’t have time to indulge in walks down memory lane. Brooke never forgave Dalton for the way he left town without even saying good-bye, and she’s not interested in making amends.

But soul mates have a way of finding you…even when you’re not ready.

A Navy SEAL’s dramatic homecoming, an earth-shattering secret, and a second-chance romance await you in Holt’s first Southern Hart Brothers release. Pre-order TODAY!

Written by Tule Marketing Intern, Kristina Gaffney

Sinclair Jayne shares her favorite Biscotti recipe that’s perfect for that anytime treat!

December 26, 2024 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Delicious recipes straight from the kitchens of your favorite Tule authors.

There is so much to love (and not just that it’s hard to mess up) about biscotti. I love that it’s a dunking cookie. Seriously dunking cookie—coffee, hot chocolate, milk, mulled wine….It’s crunchy and with the basic ingredients you can PLAY around. Go with nuts and chocolate or citrus zest or savory, or dried fruit. You can play around so many ways—a bit like writing.

Some of my favorites are lemon with lavender or anise, cinnamon, and grand marnier soaked almond slivers or cardamom and fennel or rosemary or chocolate and black walnuts and then dipped after baked and cools into melted white chocolate (spiked if you dare).

Ingredients:

2.5 cups of flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cinn
1/2 tsp sea salt
Whisk
4 eggs
3/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown
1 tsp your choice of extract

Directions:

  1. Combine into a dough
  2. Divide in half
  3. Create two equal flat loaves
  4. Bake on a silpat or parchment paper at 350 for 15 minutes until golden
  5. Cool, cut at an angle with a serrated bread knife into 1/2 inch thick cookies, lay flat and bake another ten minutes.

Tule Holiday Blog Series: Cozy Christmas Crimes from Our Tule Mystery Imprint!

December 23, 2024 · Posted by Tule Publishing

To our cherished holiday book lovers–cheers to another merry reading season! As we wrap up Tule’s Holiday Blog Series, we’re unmasking the last but certainly not least of Tule’s festive imprints. Today, we’re sneaking into the world of cozy Christmas mysteries from our Tule Mystery Imprint! Launched only this past year, Tule’s collection of cozy mysteries has made big strides to keep your holiday reading spine-tingling, cozy, and seasonal. From a craft toy maker hiding dark secrets to Christmas Eve weddings where the only thing under the mistletoe is murder, these 5 stories are the perfect blend of holiday cheer and chilling intrigue. So, if you’d rather sleuth than sip on holiday romance, or you need some cold-blooded crime next to the warm fireplace, curl up with a cozy mystery from Tule this Christmas!

**Wishing the holiday season could last forever? At Tule Publishing, it can! Our diverse set of imprints have enough holiday titles to last you a lifetime. And that’s what we strive to do all year long–provide books that can transport you anywhere you want to go–even Christmas in July!**

A Case for the Toy Maker by Candace Havens

Ho. Ho. No…

It’s Christmas in Sweet River, Texas, and the whole town is feeling festive apart from Ainsley McGregor. Ainsley has never enjoyed the holidays and would rather ignore them, but with her shop Bless Your Art busier than ever and filled with happy shoppers, even she’s feeling some Christmas spirit. That is, until her Great Dane, George Clooney, sniffs out a dead body in the Santa House at the Christmas Festival.

When one of her favorite crafters becomes the prime suspect, Ainsley is determined to prove his innocence. The case is full of so many twists and turns that even Ainsley begins to fear the truth. Is she protecting a killer?

With help from her friends and some extremely nosey townsfolk, Ainsley and her dog hurry to find the truth—as long as they can outwit and outrun the killer first. Otherwise, this Christmas might just be her last.

Order A Case for the Toymaker today and unwrap a crafty mystery where holiday cheer meets a killer twist in Sweet River!

Crumbling Up Crooks by Emmie Lyn

Don’t get married on Christmas Eve, they said.

The holiday will overshadow your special day, they insisted.

Little did they know that a shockingly festive murder would put everything else on hold.

When all signs point to my sometimes friend, sometimes rival, Detective Crenshaw, I’ll need to work fast so that he’s not forced to spend his holiday in the slammer. But in throwing myself feet first into the real crook’s crummy conspiracy, I could be risking so much more than a spoiled day… The future of my forthcoming marriage could very well be on the line too.

Oh, boy… Can Pip and I solve this one in record time so that my fiancé’s and my perfect day can go off without another major hitch?

A Christmas Eve wedding wrapped in red…order Crumbling Up Crooks today!

Murder Below the Mistletoe by Kaz Delaney

It was going to be a Christmas wedding to die for…

What could go wrong when baker Rosie Hart heads to a snowy Colorado mountain lodge for a week of elaborate pre-wedding festivities at her friend’s wedding? The better question would be: what could go right?

Rosie’s fears for the nervous bride are confirmed when one of the wedding guests turns up dead. All evidence points to the groom being the intended victim, but with the guests dressed in Christmas-themed attire, and a dead Santa on their hands, Rosie’s not so sure. What if the killer did hit the right target all along?

Stuck in a blizzard with the wedding party being picked off one by one, Rosie’s investigative instincts kick in—only this time she’s acting without the support of her friends back in Airlie Falls. Until her four irrepressible card-shark mentors from Riverbend Retirement Village unexpectedly turn up to rescue her.

The more the merrier…right?

Order Murder Below the Mistletoe NOW for a wedding invite to die for!

A Santa Stabbing by Geri Krotow

She didn’t realize she’d traded “Naval Aviator” for “amateur sleuth”…

Retired Navy pilot Angel Warren’s new life awaits in Stonebridge, Pennsylvania, where she’s opening Shop ‘Round the World, her travel-inspired gift and novelty shop. A newly empty nester and longtime widow, she’s looking forward to leaving her flying career and its many life-or-death decisions behind and reconnecting with family and friends. Right now, Angel’s biggest challenge is getting the shop ready for its grand opening just weeks before Christmas.

Until she finds a dead body in the shop murdered with one of her specialty Santa figurines. Even worse, Angel’s fingerprints are on the “weapon” and she’s a prime suspect. It doesn’t help that the deceased is an old friend who’s collected a long list of enemies as a cut-throat real estate agent. And then there’s the Stonebridge Chief of Police—and Angel’s high school BFF—who brings her in for questioning.

If Angel wants to clear her name before the Christmas rush, she’s going to need to do some sleuthing on her own—and with the help of her stressed out parrot, Ralph.

Nothing kills holiday spirit faster than being accused of murder—help Angel clear her name before Christmas! Order A Santa Stabbing today!

Slay Bells Ring by Nancy Robards Thompson

It’s one thing to write a mystery, but when your daughter is the suspect — you solve it.

Wedding planner Jenna Bell doesn’t panic when the groom is a no-show to the ceremony – even though he is her former high school sweetheart and this wedding is the small town’s event of the year. However, when he turns up dead and she is falsely accused… well, yeah, now it’s the time to panic.

Jenna’s mother, Maddie, puts her cozy mystery writing skills to use to try to clear her daughter’s name, stepping on by-the-book Chief of Police Jackson Bradley’s toes in the process. No matter how enticing he finds her, he doesn’t want this writer-turned-amateur-sleuth interfering with his murder investigation.

With nearly all of Hemlock, North Carolina, picking sides and the town’s own Gossip Brigade churning out the rumors, Maddie discovers the mystery isn’t very cozy when it hits this close to home.

Nothing bonds a mother and daughter like a murder accusation…order Slay Bells Ring today to find out if Maddie can clear her daughter’s name!

Written by Tule Marketing Intern, MJ Gryzik

Tule’s Holiday Blog Series: Heartland Holidays–Coast-to-Coast Christmas Romance from Our American Heart Imprint!

December 22, 2024 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Merry almost-Christmas, holiday book lovers! Welcome back to another installment of Tule’s Holiday Blog Series! Today, we’re embarking on a heartwarming journey across America with our American Heart imprint’s Christmas romances. From cozy small towns to bustling cities, Tule’s talented authors have crafted stories that blend the warmth of Christmas with the charm of Americana, featuring everything from cozy game nights and local bakeries to royal encounters and modern-day scrooges. So, whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas in a small town or longing for a twinkling celebration in the big city, our curated list of 10 titles promise to fulfill your geographical and heartfelt Christmas needs–all straight from the American Heart. Get ready to fall in love with Christmas, coast to coast!

Made for Mistletoe by Nan Reinhardt

This Christmas he has big plans until he meets a beautiful distraction….

Army reservist Cameron Walker loves everything about the holidays in River’s Edge—celebrating with his big family and carving out more time to work on his custom design furniture in his studio. But when he meets a visiting artist and niece of a family friend, he’s eager to break his work plans for play. He knows first-hand life’s short.

Teacher and artist Harper Gaines is bowled over by the handsome and friendly finish carpenter she meets during her vacation. His admiration for her art and his enthusiasm for life light her up, and remind her of how much she’s been missing since her soldier husband’s death. But when she discovers Cam’s also a soldier, she retreats, unable to risk another loss.

Cam has never felt such a strong connection, and he won’t give up without a fight. But will Cam’s persistence and the magic of Christmas be enough to convince Harper to take a chance on them?

Discover if love can bloom under the mistletoe this Christmas—order Made for Mistletoe TODAY!

Clued in Christmas by Mia Heintzelman

Someone is plotting their romantic reunion this Christmas…

Nadia Sikes usually loves the holidays—cozy game nights, snowy mountain girls’ trips, hours decking the halls at Love & Games. But when her two best friends and co-owners find love, all she wants is to tuck away her heart and make it through the season.

Quietly handsome bookstore owner and single dad Micah Hamilton is determined to a) build lasting Christmas memories with his little girl and b) avoid Nadia. When his daughter asks to attend the holiday festivities at Love & Games, though, Micah is forced to introduce the woman who broke his heart, to his child she never knew existed.

The scene would drive anyone to plot their romantic reunion…and someone does. Between turkey dinners, tree decorating, and mistletoe kisses, mysterious notes begin showing up at the game store. As Nadia strings together clues, motives, and suspects for this twisty whodunit, she and Micah are blindsided by the return of their desire.

Is it a mistake to lose themselves in each other again? Or will a Christmas miracle bring them back to where they belong?

Can you solve the mystery of love? Order Clued in Christmas today to find out!

Christmas Cakes and Kisses by Lara Van Hulzen

Christmas cake and unexpected love, fresh out the oven!

Eva Endicott comes to Silver Bay to prove to her family that she can make it on her own. Working in the local bakery, she’s determined to save enough to open her own cake decorating business. Winning an upcoming Christmas cake competition is the key to her dream, so Eva has no time for distractions, especially not devastatingly handsome ones that make her heart skip a beat.

Tyler Vance is the personal trainer for professional baseball pitcher, Drew MacIntyre. After following a retired Drew to Silver Bay, Tyler’s own future is uncertain. Things become more unsettled when a beautiful baker enters his world. Eva fascinates Tyler and as he gets to know her better, he considers planting his roots in Silver Bay. But when the location Tyler chooses for his training facility is the same one Eva wants for her bakery, something has to give.

With the contest deadline looming, Eva can barely think about Tyler. Until a blinding moment finally reveals her true feelings.

Is it too late? Or will a Christmas miracle give them both more than they ever dreamed?

Bake up some romance this holiday season with your own copy of Christmas Cakes and Kisses–order NOW!

Christmas in Angel Harbor by Jeannie Moon

This Christmas, she’s hoping for a miracle…

Twenty-five years ago, Jane Fallon put her rising career on hold to take over her family’s bookstore after the death of her father. Throughout the years, she’s transformed Angel Harbor Books into a place of comfort for her and her daughter, but when her landlord announces the building has been sold, Jane is faced with sudden uncertainty. If the bookstore is gone, what will she do?

As a young man, Dan Gallo couldn’t get out of Angel Harbor fast enough. Now a best-selling novelist, Dan returns home after a tragedy derails his career. His first stop is his favorite teenage hangout—the local bookstore. It’s almost exactly how he remembers it. But the girl who once worked there is now a beautiful woman whose smarts and spirit inspire him to write again, and open his heart to new possibilities.

With her world threatening to fall apart, Dan hopes that with the help of the town—and some Christmas magic—he can get Jane to see how important she is to the people of Angel Harbor…and him.

Will Christmas magic save the local bookstore this Christmas? Order Christmas in Angel Harbor now to find out!

Boyfriends of Christmas Past by Erika Marks

Now a Hallmark Channel Original Movie!

A magical, modern-day Christmas Carol…

Digital designer Emma Wallace is finally poised for her big break: kitchenware giant Johnson Cookware is looking to rebrand – and with Christmas around the corner, Emma’s long-held philosophy of work-before-play may just give her the edge she needs to win the account.

The only peppermint twist in her Scrooge-worthy plan? She’s promised her ever-patient, architect boyfriend Sam Cole that after spending the last three Christmases in her office instead of in his arms, she’ll make this holiday just about the two of them. But as Christmas Eve draws near and the deadline crunch threatens her promise to Sam, Emma finds herself visited by three boyfriend “ghosts” of Christmases past, who come bearing the gift of hindsight.

Will showing Emma her past romantic failures, as well as her early courtship with Sam, help her to see the path to true happiness in time to save her future?

Don’t let your heart turn to Scrooge this Christmas—order Boyfriends of Christmas Past now and learn from Emma’s ghostly visits!

Royally Abandoned by Kelsey McKnight & Sarah Fischer

A seat on the throne or a place in her heart?

Greyson Montgomery dreams of a simple life, but as the crown prince of Aldora, simple is not in his future. Before ascending the throne on Christmas Eve, Greyson is given one month to explore how the other half lives. Armed with a few hundred dollars and a fake backstory, Greyson flies to Savannah, Georgia, to see if he has what it takes to chase the American Dream.

Scarlett Calhoun is a Southern Belle with a heart as big as a Georgia peach. When she meets the charming construction worker, Greyson, it isn’t long before she is embracing the holiday cheer. Soon, she’s teaching him how to cook, falling for his exotic accent and soulful eyes, and joining him on picnic lunches where they talk for hours.

With Christmas Eve nearing, Greyson must fly back to Aldora and either abdicate the throne, or take his rightful place as king. Will he ignore his birthright to remain with Scarlett or will she be royally abandoned?

Unwrap royal secrets this Christmas by ordering Royally Abandoned TODAY!

A Chance This Christmas by Joanne Rock

Growing up in the Christmas-crazed theme town of Yuletide was fun for fashion designer Rachel Chambers until a family scandal made her unwelcome. Eight years later, she’s home for a friend’s wedding and trying to go incognito… until her old flame spots her.

Snowboarder Gavin Blake wants to make things right with Rachel, and smoothing her way back in Yuletide seems like the best way to do just that. Making Rachel his date for a week of pre-wedding parties is sure to bring them closer. Except he underestimated how long a small town can carry a grudge–or how much the memory of a long-ago kiss could tempt him all over again.

As the wedding approaches, Rachel remembers all she loved about her close-knit, Christmas-loving neighbors. But even if she can win over the town again, will she be able to convince her footloose, mogul-shredding wedding date that they can find happiness beyond the holidays?

Can love thaw the chill of a town that won’t welcome her back? Order A Chance This Christmas  now to uncover the warmth of Christmas magic!

The Christmas Window by Melissa McClone

A matchmaking aunt wants her nephew to find love under the mistletoe…

All doggy daycare owner Callie Andrews wants for Christmas is to win first prize this year. The annual window display competition is a huge event in Silver Falls, and she’s determined to showcase her success when her family visits her small town. It’s time for her parents and three older brothers to realize the “baby” of the family is thriving on her own.

The last thing Brandt Winslow wants to do is rehash the past, but returning home to Silver Falls means confronting the reason he left. His vacation, however, takes an unexpected turn when his well-meaning aunt meddles in his love life, and he finds himself caught up in her misguided efforts at matchmaking.

Despite their reluctance at being paired up, Callie and Brandt discover the holidays are full of surprises…and romance. But is the magic of Christmas strong enough to keep the couple together through the new year?

Can a festive window display and a little matchmaking melt the town’s frosty reception? Order The Christmas Window now to see if love can shine through!

Once Upon a Winter Wedding by Jeannie Watt

Can opposites attract and plan the perfect winter wedding?

Free-wheeling Stevie Evans is thrilled when her best friend announces she’s getting married and promises to help, never imagining she’d play wedding planner with her bestie’s uptight brother, Brant. She and Brant clashed several years ago and she’s avoided him ever since. But this time she can’t run or hide, and the buzz of attraction is stronger than ever.

Brant Gilroy’s meticulous life plan takes an unexpected turn when he hits a career bump on the same day as his sister’s wedding announcement. She wants to get married at the family tree farm, which he’s been restoring. Brant’s determined to make her day special despite his uncertain future, although he dreads working with her best friend—a woman who’s his complete opposite. So why can’t he get her out of his head?

As Brant and Stevie work together, Brant begins to wonder if they have more in common than they suspected. But how can he convince her that opposites can sometimes make the perfect team?

Order Once Upon a Winter Wedding now to see if love can warm their icy past and create the perfect winter wedding!

The X-mas Club by Lenora Worth

Christmas is a time for miracles…

After a tragic traffic accident several years ago, Veronica Cearley has avoided all socializing and celebrating—especially during Christmas. Her daughter wants her mother back and finally gives her an ultimatum: this year, she’s spending Christmas with her fiancé’s family, and if Veronica doesn’t rediscover the joy in life, she won’t be involved in planning her spring wedding. When Veronica finds a flyer inviting people to attend a “Not a Christmas Club” on her daily walk, she wonders if fate has played into her hand.

Cullen Murdock doesn’t want to spend Christmas alone. He’s back in Hidden Mountain, Georgia, on business, and while he and the town have a history, he’d prefer to keep it locked in the past. He puts a plan in motion to ensure he has company for the holiday, hoping that the other lonely people he’s invited are willing to accept his mysterious invitation and make a few positive life changes.

Forced together with three other lonesome people, Veronica and Cullen fall hard and fast, but will Cullen’s secret steal their newfound Christmas spirit?

Order The X-mas Club now to see if “Not a Christmas Club” can help heal old wounds and spark new beginnings this holiday season!

Written by Tule Marketing Intern, MJ Gryzik

Author CJ Carmichael shares her special Cinnamon Crescent Cookie recipe that she’s been using for over 20 years!

December 21, 2024 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Delicious recipes straight from the kitchens of your favorite Tule authors.

Today I’m sharing a recipe for Cinnamon Crescent cookies that I got from a recipe magazine about 20 years ago. It’s the perfect holiday cookie and if you love cinnamon, you need this recipe!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes

 

Ingredients:

Pastry –

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into pieces

1 cup all purpose flour

4oz cream cheese, cold, cut into pieces

1/2 cup raspberry jam

 

Filling –

1/4 cup brown sugar

2/3 cup finely chopped walnuts

1 TBSP cinnamon

1 TBSP cocoa

1 tsp finely grated orange peel (optional)

 

Glaze – 

1 egg

2 TBSP cream

1/3 cup coarse white sugar or chopped nuts or regular sugar

 

Instructions:

  1. Make the pastry by cutting the butter into the flour until crumbly.
  2. Cut in the cheese until crumbly.
  3. Gather the dough together and form into a ball. Knead a few times.
  4. Divide the dough in half and shape into two balls. Wrap each and refrigerate until ready to use. The pastry can be easily made in a food processor – process until the dough just comes together.
  5. Prepare the filling by combining the brown sugar, nuts, cinnamon, cocoa and (optional) orange peel.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350F.
  7. Roll out each ball of dough into a 12″ circle. The thinner the pastry, the crisper the cookies will be.
  8. Spread each round with a thin layer of jam. Sprinkle with the filling and pat it in firmly.
  9. Cut each circle into 12 wedges and roll each wedge up tightly from the outside edge.
  10. Butter a cookie sheet well, or line with parchment paper.
  11. Arrange the crescents on the cookie sheet.
  12. In a small bowl, combine the egg and cream for the glaze. Brush the cookies with the glaze and sprinkle with sugar. (Crescents can now be frozen if you wanted to bake for a later time)
  13. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Frozen crescents will require a slightly longer baking time.

 

Tule author Anne McAllister is a fan of chocolate – and so is her family! Bake her yummy frosted chocolate drop cookies with this recipe.

December 20, 2024 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Delicious recipes straight from the kitchens of your favorite Tule authors.

Ingredients:

For the cookies
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine
1 egg, well beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 one ounce squares of unsweetened chocolate, melted
1 1/2 cup flour
Pinch of salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup milk

For the frosting
1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
3 TBSP of butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
Milk as needed to spread

Instructions:

  1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Cream brown sugar and butter, then add egg, vanilla and melted chocolate. Blend well.
  3. Sift together dry ingredients; add alternately with milk to the sugar/butter/egg mixture.
  4. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet.
  5. Bake 10-12 minutes.
  6. Let cool briefly on sheet, then continue cooling on a wire rack.
  7. To make the frosting, cream together powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract and milk. When cookies are cooled, spread frosting on cookies.

Note: Let icing dry before storing in a container.