Hello, I’m Jane McKenzie, and my husband George and I moved to Hazelton, Vermont soon after our wedding forty years ago. We’ve had some good times here, but the happiest day of my life was when my son Keith suffered a pro-hockey career ending injury.
No, wait a minute. That isn’t what I mean. I’m not glad my son was hurt, but the nice result was he came back to Vermont to take a position as a sports anchor at a regional radio station. His wife, Kate, and my two lovely granddaughters, Samantha and Suzanne, moved here with him. So, I guess these have been the happiest follow-up days of my life.
Before they moved close to us, we only saw the kids once or twice a year. Now, I get to see them all the time, get closer to my granddaughters, and help out with activities. I know this helps Keith and Kate a lot, since his radio show is every evening, and she’s working hard to build her organization business Stacked in Your Favor. Everyone is so busy, even my granddaughters. It amazes me how those girls have so many activities for being only seven years old, but they’re a couple of real firecrackers and I’m thrilled to spend time with Sam and Suze each day.
My daughter-in-law, Kate, is another treasure—though she tries to do way too much on her own, has trust issues, juggles a busy home life while also working to grow her small business, puts way to much pressure on herself, and multi-tasks from sun-up to sundown using the unending lists she writes and keeps in her head to stay on-track.
Yes, I know. That sounds like most of us women. Right?
Kate is getting a little better. She’s made good strides in trusting lately, and as an organization expert finds prioritizing is second nature to her. She also keeps a rubber band on her left wrist to flip whenever the inner anxiety threatens to overtake her, and that gets less and less often. But she still forgets she can’t do it all. I’m just glad I have this opportunity to be there and help out whenever I’m needed.
However, there’s one thing Kate is starting to excel at—the one thing I truly wish she’d stop—and that’s her ability to solve mysteries. Her new organization business has enmeshed her in murder several times. She solved two murders last month, one the death of her first client, and now she’s trying to solve another so a teenage honor student isn’t packed off to prison. Between Kate and her best friend and business associate, Meg Berman, I have no doubt this new murderer will be caught too. Still, I’m worried this second killer is getting as successful at murder, as Kate is at solving the crime.
I just got my little family moved here to Vermont. I don’t want the move to mean that something bad could happen to my lovely daughter-in-law simply because she cares too much about helping innocent people.
You can read more about Jane in Organized for Homicide, the second book in the “Organized” mystery series, published by Gemma Halliday Publishing. The first book in the series is Organized for Murder.
About Organized for Homicide (Organized Mysteries #2)
Organization expert Kate McKenzie is looking forward to her newest consignment: organize the cross-country move for a divorced father and his two children. But when a dead body turns up, Kate’s carefully organized plans are thrown into chaos. Was it an accident? Or murder? Kate aims to find out and ends up falling more emotionally involved than she’d expected when the victim’s teenaged daughter becomes the police’s lead suspect. As a mother herself, she just can’t let the girl not only lose a mother but possibly lose her freedom and future as well. While the police follow the chain of evidence, Kate follows her gut, leading her on a dangerous investigation that could result in more than one death if she doesn’t watch her step…
Available in print and all ebook formats September 8, 2014!
GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment by 6 p.m. eastern on September 10 for the chance to win a copy of ORGANIZED FOR HOMICIDE either in print or e-book version, winner’s choice. (Print U.S. only)
About the author
Ritter is an award-winning author who writes the Bodies of Art Mysteries series and the cozy Organized Mysteries series, both published by Gemma Halliday Publishing. She focuses most of her time and writing energies on globe trotting the world via her keyboard to create memorable characters and fascinating fiction novels for readers. In 
this great new endeavor, her cat muse remains faithfully by her side (see her catnapping in box)–only voicing displeasure when the food bowl sits empty due to Ritter focusing more on writing than on kibble. She is on Facebook and Twitter, and tries to blog regularly on her website at ritterames.com. Ritter uses her Pinterest boards at www.pinterest.com/ritterames to capture great places and ideas she wants to use in both series. Follow her blog and boards to learn more about her upcoming books.
I enjoyed the first one and the organizing tips. Glad to see a new one.
So glad to hear you enjoyed Organized for Murder, bookwoman 🙂 I’ve loved getting back into Kate’s world to write this sequel. Good luck in the drawing!
I just bought the first book. It looks like a great series.
Thanks, Lynette. I was thrilled when my publisher put the first book on sale just before the release of this one. Glad you could get the bargain 🙂
Sounds great, will have to look for the first book
Debbie, the book is on sale right now for 99 cents for a short time to tie with the new release. I’m not sure how long my publisher will leave it at this price, but pick it up soon if you’re interested–I love when readers get a bargain!
Sounds like another fun cozy series you have found for us. Thanks 🙂
Gram, I certainly enjoy writing them, so I hope that translates into the book. Kate is getting a real support system for the first time in her life, and these lovely characters equally support me as an author, too. There’s a lot of times they truly surprise me in good ways. 🙂
I am hoping if I read this book will there be subliminal messages that will help me get organized but I would love another mystery to read.
The mystery is always first priority, but there are organization tips mixed in the story, Lynn, and more at the very end. Most aren’t for huge changes, and the ideas can be implemented easily to add a few minutes each day or reduce stress levels a bit. The first book probably has more big change ideas, since it was themed around the murder of someone who would have been called a hoarder if she hadn’t been rich–instead, she was eccentric. 🙂
hope to get a chance to read it, thank you!
Good luck in the drawing, Lisa. Thanks for stopping by!
I would love to read this book—thanks for the opportunity to win a copy!
I think Dru picks the winner tomorrow, Sheila, so you won’t have long to wait. I love drawings like that–I have the patience of a two-year-old when it comes to book. LOL! Good luck.
This book was amazing! Ritter always surprizes….and I highly recommend anything she writes. I aleady own it, so make sure somebody else gets to read it
Andrea, thanks so much for stopping by. I appreciate your ringing endorsement. Have a great day!
I wold love to read this book especially after seeing the comment by Andrea.
Yes, Nancy, I’m going to have to put Andrea on my PR payroll. She’s terrific 🙂 Good luck in the drawing. I’m glad you came by today, Nancy!
I love the ‘purple’-ness of this cover!!! LOL!!
thank you for the giveaway!!
Yes, the cover designer is just the best out there. Her name is Lyndsey Lewellen, by the way, and her work is always top shelf. Good luck in the drawing!
This is a new author/series for me. Sounds great and I’ve put it on my book list.
Glad it sounds interesting to you, Jane. Not to put any pressure on your TBR pile (my wobbles even as I type this–LOL!), but the first book in the series is on sale for a short time at 99 cents. I’m not sure when my publisher will raise the price back to $3.99, but I wanted to mention it since she said the sale is tied to the new release. Thanks for stopping by, and good luck in the drawing 🙂
Congrats, Ritter…thanks, Dru…would love to win.
Thanks, Patricia. Good luck in the drawing 🙂
Another TBR for my list. I love the way you introduce us to new authors. This sounds like a real page turner.
Yes, Robin, Dru Ann is the best at this, isn’t she? I’ve added more new books to my list just because of this blog 🙂
I read the first one and loved it, I need to use those tips a little more to get myself organized…that was my resolution this year…I’m losing, LOL. Thanks for the chance to win this one.
Glad you liked the first book, Debbie. Just remember you don’t have to do large scale changes to make a difference. Good luck in the drawing!
This was a fun and intriguing read. And if your in the market to move this is a must read, the moving tips are amazing!!!
Thanks, Dana! Yes, the second book has Kate packing to move a client’s family across country, so besides the mystery and the organization tips she uses in her normal life, Kate shares tips to help moves operate at a less stressful level. No way to get rid of the stress completely, but always ways to cope. 🙂
This sounds like a wonderful sequel. I can’t wait to read it. Congratulations on a new book coming out!
Thanks so much, Sandy 🙂 Good luck in the drawing!
I enjoy both of Ritter’s series but this one is my favorite. Highly recommend.
Ahhh, thanks, Maria. And, folks, don’t forget to look at Death Under the Venice Moon if you want to take a great trip to Italy 🙂
Oh, the lists! Sometimes I think I spend more time organizing the lists than it would take to do the tasks on them. I have the first book on my Kindle. Moving it up to the top of my TBR so I’ll be ready for this one.
Yes, lists can help us organize, or become a way to overwhelm us. My personal way of doing things is to always write 3 to 5 things I absolutely have to do each day. If I get those things done, then I know I’ve successfully met the day’s goals and can move on. But writing a list of Everything that must be done too often sets people up for feeling like we’ve failed. There is Always So Much To Do, and we tend to focus on what we haven’t accomplished more than what we have. We have good intentions–just not enough hours in the day. Good luck, Sally! Hope you enjoy the first book!
A black cat as ones muse? Couldn’t be much better!
Her name is Mischief for a reason, Libby 🙂
I have two black cats! Thank you for the giveaway!
Two is better than one, right, Carol? Good luck in the drawing!
I was lucky enough to get a copy of Organized for Murder when it came out and enjoyed it a great deal. I’d be very pleased to win a copy of the sequel, thanks very much for the chance.
Yes, Carl, I remember you from Lori Caswell’s blog. Good to see you again 🙂
I like books about everyday women who solve crimes.
These are the kind I enjoy reading, too, Karen Terry. Kate tries to tell Meg they shouldn’t be involved this time, but she changes her mind when the police name their chief suspect.
Such great books. I’d really like to win a copy for my sister in law. Thanks for the chance.
Good luck, Karen H. Thanks for stopping by. You’re obviously a good sister-in-law 🙂
I’m ready for the second book. Count me in. Thanks.
Great, Judy! Good luck in the drawing 🙂
A good organizer plus a good observer? Unbeatable. Watch out, bad guys!
Good points, Ann. 🙂 So glad you could drop by. Good luck in the drawing!
Would love to win a print copy. Love Ritter Ames’ books…I enjoy the humor involved when solving the crime. Great reads!!!
Glad you could stop by, Carol. Thanks for the kind words, and good luck in the drawing 🙂
I really believe that I used up all of my organizational skills in the first 30 years of marriage; now in retirement and having grandchildren with us most days, that kind of life is just not going to happen, at least with some things, but it was time to relax so will go with how it is now. I have great lists but not too many things get crossed off of them but perhaps you have hints for that kind of procrastination. 🙂 I read book 1 and absolutely loved it, and would definitely like to be considered for this giveaway. Thank you for writing such fun and helpful books, Ritter.
Sincerely
Cynthia B
Massachusetts
Cynthia, so glad you stopped by. It’s time to enjoy those grandchildren, and sometimes the lists have to just sit. But one of the things Kate does–especially in the first book–is offer ways to engage the whole family in the organization process. Your grandchildren might like to be a part of it all. 🙂
I love this series, the mysteries and the organization ideas. I have the ARC. Loved it! Thanks so much, Ritter!
Nancy, I’m so glad you had a chance to stop by. Your words thrill this author 🙂
I love the series and adore Jane. The interview with her was perfect! I preordered the book.
Thanks so much, Jeanie! I truly appreciate you 🙂
I’ve read Organuzed for Murder and looking forward to Organized for Homicide.
Thanks so much, Lindar. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Good luck in the drawing!
I am so going to have to go read #1. This series takes place in my home state of Vermont. I love reading books based on true and fictitious towns right here in my back yard.
Carol, the books are stand alone–just tied together as a series–so you don’t have to read #1 before you read #2. However, with the current deal on the first book that my publisher is running, this is a good time to buy the first in the series, too. I don’t know how long the 99 cent pricing will last on Organized for Murder (the first book in this series), but if you like ebooks, it’s a good deal. Thanks so much for stopping by, and good luck in the drawing!
The whole series is on my list…. 🙂
Hi, Alicia, it’s good to see you. I appreciate all the hard work you and Jenny do to keep Murder Most Cozy such a nicely organized readers group on Facebook. One of my stops every time I get onto FB. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, and good luck in the drawing!
Ooooo, this one sounds delightful. I want it!
So glad it sounds interesting to you Amy. Good luck in the drawing
Love this added insight into Jane. It adds so much to the series.
Yes, being able to change viewpoints is one of the most fun things I’ve always enjoyed with Dru’s blog. Hearing characters you were only able to read dialogue from before. Thanks for stopping by, Shannon!
Thanks Ritter!
I was lucky enough to read the ARC of this book and all I can say is is was a great read. I read the first book in this series too, and this book was even better. The characters are maturing as the stories progress. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Love this write up from Kate’s mother in law. How fun! Glad to see we’ve got another new adventure. Keep them coming! 🙂
Thanks, Sue. Yes, it was fun letting Jane take her turn in the spotlight for this blog post 🙂 These are fun characters to write.
Linda, I’m so glad you could stop by. And thanks so much for the kind words. I love writing this series for exactly the reason you mention–it’s fun seeing the characters return with a little more dimension each time. 🙂
Absolutely LOVE this series. Wish I had a mother in law like Jane!
You and me, both, Gina. LOL! Glad you could stop by 🙂
This is a great book!
Thanks, Dawn, glad you like the series, and could stop by today!
Read Organized for Homicide and reading Organized for Murder now. Both great.
Thanks so much, Laura. Yes, these are books that tie, but can be read out of order. Glad you’re liking the series 🙂
Love Ritter Ames books. This one was good
Thanks for the ringing endorsement, Sandy. I’m so glad you could stop by 🙂
Just left my lovely review for your latest book on Amazon!
Yes, Dianne, I saw that. I’m so glad you liked the book 🙂
I love Ritter’s books! Thanks for the giveaway!
Glad you could stop by, Jenna! Good luck!
What a great sounding book and I’d love to add it to my TBR stack
I’ve had a lot of fun writing this series, Becky. Good luck in the giveaway 🙂
I could use someone to help me with my organizational deficiencies—but I don’t want any murder happening at my house—I just want to read about murder in good cozies.
suefarrell.farrell@gmail.com
LOL! Sue, I think you have your priorities in place. Reading a cozy with a little murder and organization is much better than experiencing it in real life! Good luck in the drawing.
It sounds like a really great read. I know I would enjoy this book. Thanks for having the giveaway.
Thanks for stopping by, Anita. And good luck in the drawing 🙂
I downloaded an e-book version of this mystery for my upcoming vacation (and because I really need organizing tips!) but holding a book and seeing it sit on a shelf to be re-read someday will aways be my preferred choice. Thanks for the opportunity!
Thanks so much, Beth. Have fun on your vacation 🙂 And good luck in the drawing!
This is a series I need to get started on. Thanks so much for the chance to win.
Thanks so much for stopping by, Mary. For the next few days, my publisher is running the first book in the series, Organized for Murder, at only 99 cents to ties with this release. You don’t have to read the books in order, but wanted to mention this since it’s a great price at a limited time. Good luck in the drawing. 🙂
I always enjoy Ritter’s books. Her organized series is great, but I must admit I like the bodies of art mysteries better. The first one is already available – Counterfeit Consultancies, and the aecond one is due out later this year – Marked Masters.
Thanks for the shout-out, Jen. Since I just finished edits on Marked Masters, I’m still in that frame of mind myself. Always fun to see what kind of challenges Laurel gets thrown her way–LOL!
I think I may be echoing some earlier comments. But hopefully, this would be both a fun read and inspiring in organizing some of our own stuff!
All the right kinds of echoes. Never fear 🙂 Good luck in the drawing and thanks for stopping by.
This was a great book!
Thanks so much, Dawn. Love making readers happy 🙂
This series looks like fun. I’m looking forward to reading it.
I just purchased the first book and would love to add this to the TBR pile. Thanks.
Thanks Ritter for interacting with my readers.
The contest is closed.