“The last thing I want to do on New Year’s Eve is be out on the highways.” I shook my head as I poured myself another cup of peppermint tea. “Remind me the next time I get pregnant to make sure the baby comes in the spring or summer or even fall when it isn’t so icy outside.”
“You want to get pregnant again?” My daughter Anya’s denim blue eyes were as big as the tea cup in her hand. At thirteen, she’s very curious about s-e-x, so I could imagine the mental gymnastics she was entertaining.
“Sounds like a plan to me,” said my fiancé, Detective Chad Detweiler, winking at me. He had been listening from his accustomed spot, leaning against the kitchen counter with his long legs crossed at the ankle.
“First things, first. Let’s wait until I deliver this little dude, okay?” I patted my huge belly. “I’m just sayin.’ I don’t much care how we celebrate the New Year as long as we’re all snug here at home. I don’t want us out on the roads. Not if we can help it.”
Of course, if Detweiler got called into work, he’d have no choice to leave us and brave the slick roads. But my fingers were crossed that he could stay home. Our baby was due in two weeks, and I wanted my husband-to-be at my side when I delivered. Since this was a second pregnancy for me, the little rascal might decide to come early.
“What do you do to celebrate the New Year in Scotland?” Anya looked up at our nanny, Bronwyn Macavity, with curiosity. Brawny, as we call her, is a Scot, through and through. People recognize her provenance immediately because she typically wears a kilt, a white blouse, knee socks and brogues.
“All sorts of things. We have a celebration called Hogmanay that begins on December 31. For some it lasts until January 2, what with singing, dancing, and telling stories. In my neighborhood, Robbie McGillis woke us all up on the New Year, playing his bagpipes. ‘Twas a thrilling sound, you can bet. Then Mum and Da would go through the house, room to room, sprinkling every corner with holy water and carrying lit pieces of juniper to chase away bad spirits.”
“Then I vote we have a Hogmanay New Year,” said Anya. “What do you think, Erik?”
“Hogs! Many!” Her five-year-old brother nodded in agreement, as he lifted his tiny hand for a high five as his red curls bobbed in agreement.
That settled, the kids raced off to watch Frozen for the umpteenth zillion time. Thinking ahead, I asked Brawny, “What do I need to do to help you pull this off?”
“Not a thing. Aye, and it’ll be my pleasure to share this with the wee ones.”
* * * * * * * * *
We sat down to a New Year’s Eve dinner of stew. The tantalizing smell of it cooking had made my mouth water all day long. For dessert, Brawny had baked shortbread cookies.
“I helped-ed! So did Anya!” crowed Erik, happily. “They’s lemon curse, too.”
“Lemon curse” was quickly explained to be “lemon curd,” which I happily slathered onto my cookies.
Once dinner was over, we piled onto the furniture in the family room. The animals joined us, so that I had a cat in the nook of my knees, a Great Dane at my feet, and another cat in my lap. Detweiler lit a big blaze in the fireplace. At the stroke of midnight, we counted down the New Year. Brawny excused herself to go get the mulled cider she’d been cooking in the Crockpot. The scent of cloves mixed with the burning wood was delightful.
“Erik and I have a surprise for you,” said Anya. “Brawny helped, but we’ve been practicing all day.”
As Detweiler and I sipped our hot drinks, Erik and Anya stood side-by-side and sang, “Auld Lang Syne.” Their piping voices rose to the rafters. The childlike tones formed an enchanting counterpoint to a song that had served to usher in the New Year for centuries, even before Robert Burns shaped the old Scots folk anthem into a national poem.
“Aye, but do ye know what it means?” Brawny asked, after we’d applauded the children’s performance.
“It means we won’t forget the ones we’ve loved and lost,” said Anya. “Isn’t that right, Erik?”
He nodded solemnly. “Even if a hog’s many years go by.”
~ The End ~
Shotgun, Wedding, Bells is the 11th book in the Kiki Lowenstein Mystery Series, published by Spot On Publishing. The first book in the series is Paper, Scissors, Death.
GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment by 6 p.m. eastern on February 6 for the chance to win a print copy of Shotgun, Wedding, Bells (U.S. residents only) or the e-book version (open to everyone). Winner will be notified within 48 hours after giveaway closes.
Meet the author
National bestselling and award-winning author Joanna Campbell Slan is a real sap. She loves animals, kids, and crafts. (Not necessarily in that order.) She’s also a huge reader, who’s never without a book in her hands. You can find her walking the beach on Jupiter Island, looking for seashells. Learn more at www.JoannaSlan.com.
Hey Dru, I’d love to own another Kiki book so please enter me in the contest.
Hey, Nora Adrienne, so glad you joined us today!
Hard to believe this is the 11th. Congrats. This is a fun series.
I’ve actually written 3/4 of Book #12. I can’t believe it either!
What a great series. Can’t wait to read this one!
Mary, my assistant Sally laughed out loud at several parts of this one.
Glad to hear there is another book in this great series. I’ve enjoyed watching the characters grow.
Lynette, as an author, I think that’s one of the best parts of a series. I can think of one popular series I quit reading because the character didn’t grow.
I love the tittle and the cover. I am looking forward to reading your book. Thank you for your giveaway. I will enjoy reading the rest of your books.
Hey, Melody! I have a wonderful cover artist. The photo really matches the action in the book.
I love the Kiki mysteries! Thanks for highlighting the latest book, Dru.
I think we should call her “St. Dru Ann,” the patroness of books, no?
“St. Dru Ann”–the patroness of books? Yes, yes, yes!! Love that idea. She is amazing and is responsible for my very high TBR piles.
Oh my..plenty of catching up to do with this series.
Gram, can you hear me snapping my fingers and shouting, “Hop to it?” (LOL)
Oh, it looks great, hope to get a chance to read it 🙂
I hope you do, too, Lisa. You can read the first chapter on my blog. Go to http://www.joannaslan.blogspot.com
Sounds great. would love to read this
Debbie, I hope you’ll give it a try. You know, you can always read a sample by going to Amazon and asking for a sample. (Although you might have to wait until the “official” release date. I think that’s Valentine’s Day.)
This book would be a good intro to this series. This sounds delightful.
Nancy, even if you don’t read the books in order, they should be fun. That’s the plan, any hoot!
Joanna is the best. Can’t wait to finish Her latest book!
Thanks!
Special hugs to my Stephanie-girlfriend. Stay warm and safe!
I love Joanna books, I have been a fan of her’s since her scrapbook journaling tips days.
You know, Angie, I’m thinking I need to get Scrapbook Storytelling on digital. Now the devices are good enough that people can see the color images. Your thoughts?
I am so looking forward to this book!
I think it will tickle you. As per usual, I tackle some social commentary. This one involves strippers. (Yup, you read that right. I did my research–uh–up to a point!)
Sounds like such a great book! Thank you for the contest!
My great pleasure, Betty. Dru Ann is wonderful.
I can’t wait to read the new Kiki mystery. Thank you for the contest.
Tamara, thanks to people like YOU, Kiki is winning new fans all the time.
Ahhhh Joanna, I can hardly wait to read this! I am so excited for Kiki and Detwiler to get married and have that baby!!! Your books are a wonderful blend of family, love, mystery, and crafts. Thanks to you and Dru for the opportunity to enter this contest!
Barbara, don’t you know it? Someone complained that her pregnancy was going on forever–but it sure feels that way when you’re expecting, doesn’t it? And she’s only been PG eight and a half months. So that’s realistic. I just didn’t choose to jump over those LONG nine months.
How did I miss this series? Sounds lovable!
Lisa, how’d that happen? Tell you what–if you or any of Dru Ann’s readers would like to start this series, send an email to my assistant, Sally Lippert, at salfl27@att.net and she’ll send you one of the early books in the series, in e-format. My gift to all of you.
Can’t wait for the next book. It is already pre-ordered. Should be delivered to my Kindle that day. Now to make sure that the Kindle is fully charged.
Joanna was at Scrapbook Factory several years ago – promoting her book.
I’d been reading the series all along and enjoyed her visit. She did a murder mystery contest. Looking forward to the newest installment. thanks.
You know, Marylou, they tell us that in-person appearances are a waste of time, but I’ve met so many wonderful people that way. Thanks for stopping by.
What a wonderful teaser, can’t wait for next book.
Well, it’s coming! It’s faster than pregnancy!
I am so looking forward to the birth of baby Detweiler.
You and me both, girlfriend. I’m tired of trying to remember how pregnancy felt!
What a wonderful tease for we the reader. It is definitely a to be read.
As an additional tease…there’s a strip tease involved. (Just sayin’.)
Robin, I do my best to always share little vignettes here at “Dru’s Book Musings.” That gives me a chance to show you what you can expect.
Sounds like a great book.
I’m taking a bow, can you see me?
I am so glad I found Joanna and her books. I can say I found you by reading about you on my favorite book blogs. Your books fill many hours for me. Thank you!!!
Ah, Sandy, that’s my hope. We can all use an escape once in a while, right?
Can’t wait to read you rnew book!
*blowing kisses* to you, Connie.
Can’t believe it’s the 11th book in the series! I have a LOT of catching up to do (which I definitely plan on doing!!)
Wendy, see? You can binge read! I’ve done that!
If I win, I’ll have no choice but to binge read…can’t let a new book sit on the shelf forever!!! LOL BUT I have no problem binge reading a good series!!!
I am loving this story
Sally, it’s been fun to add characters. Erik, Kiki’s “adopted” son, is a new favorite of mine.
Wow, I’ve missed some in the series. I’d love to win! Thank you for the chance!
Jill, I think that Amazon has the series in order. They recently instituted some sort of way to order series fiction. A great boon to all of us.
the story line sounds good!
Anita, I listen to my readers–and often they suggest what should happen next.
I love to read about Kiki. Can’t wait to read this one. 🙂
Colleen, I charge mine every day!
I’m waiting (im)patiently for the next Kiki book! Can’t wait for February to get here!! I have it on pre-order! Luv them!! Thanks Joanna!!
My great pleasure, Kim!
I really enjoy your books – wishes for continued success for many more in the series!
That’s so kind of you, Vivian! My success is based on people telling their friends–like most of us do!
Love the Kiki series! Hoping there are 11 more to come! Thanks for the chance to win.
* blush * I hope so, too!
I have only read a few of the KiKi books but I love her!! I can’t wait for this one to find out about her baby and her family and of course the sexy Detective hubby to be!
Robin, Detweiler is both sexy and kind. A winning combination, right?
Kiki and Chad are one of my favorite detecting couples. Thanks for the contest.
suefarrell.farrell@gmail.com
Sue, they were meant to be together … always.
I can’t wait to read this one and looking forward to the next. I usually read them within two days!
Tonya, if only I could write them that fast.
Can’t wait to read this, I’ve enjoyed all of your books immensely.
Debbie–and comments like that keep me going. Bless you!
What a wonderful story! I could picture it all in my head! And I jag forgotten all about Robert Burns.
Tricia, I had to look it up to get it right.
I really enjoy these little vignettes. I’ve already order the e-version of this book from Amazon–I didn’t know it would be in print. A real book with pages is what I really love.
The coziness you describe is palpable here.
Ellen, I am working as fast as I can to get paper versions of all the Kiki books. I HATE typos, but they crop up. Usually we find them in the print proof. So this will be available in paper, too, soon.
How delightful.
We have a friend who is Scots and we used to celebrate the new year with her and her family.
Libby, did she serve haggis? Inquiring minds want to know…
Love this series!! Thanks for the chance to win.
Linda, you are entirely welcome.
How fun this sounds. I’ve never had the pleasure of this author before and would be delighted to be chosen!
Kathleen, we’d be thrilled to send you a copy of one of the early Kiki books in e-format. Just send an email to Sally, my assistant, at salfl27@att.net and she’ll fix you right up. Our gift, and we’ll add you to my newsletter. (You can always cancel.) In fact, if you have a friend/s who like cozies, share Sally’s details with your pal.
This is a great series. Thanks for the chance to win.
Patti, that kind comment will keep me happily working for weeks. Thanks! It matters more than you know.
Cannot wait to meet KIKI!
Woohoo! Just make sure to contact Sally. I know she’s been sending out ebooks all day today.
Wooohoo! Prepare to meet your new bff!
love the series, I own every one of them. keep them coming!
Bless your heart! Mega, mega thanks!
I love the Kiki Lowenstein series. Thank you for this short story!
You are very welcome!
I just love the Kiki Lowenstein series and have been anxiously awaiting the baby’s arrival!!!
As has Kiki! Whew. Being pregnant can seem endless.
Can’t wait. Would love to own another in the series. I still need to figure out what I’m missing and the correct order. Love your books.
Teresa, the chronology is on my website. Go to http://www.JoannaSlan.com
Soooooo excited! This is such a wonderful series. I would love to own a hard copy to share.
Amy, girlfriend, we can handle that! Hugs and kisses.
It sounds like a great book. I love reading about shotgun weddings. Thanks for the chance to win it.
Oh, this is definitely a “shotgun” wedding. In fact, some of the bullets…(I’m covering my mouth so I don’t give away a spoiler.)
Love all of your books. I also love the way you incorporate your hobbies into your books.
Heather, it’s a two-fer. Too-much fun for me and hopefully “fer” you, too!
What a great sounding book; I will just have to order it as I love Joanna’s writing and also all the craft ideas and things that I have not been able to do for awhile. I live my life of crafting through Joanna now. 🙂 Thank you for entering me into the contest; I won’t take this off my to be ordered list just in case. Keep up the great writing and entertaining us Joanna.
Would love some tiny pieces of sea glass for my glass locket if you have extra; will send you some recipes or something in exchange as I am sure you feel very sorry for us here in MA with almost 35 inches of snow and more on the way over the weekend and Monday??? 🙂 And this snow will be on the ground now until May!!!! No seashell hunting for us.
Take care
Hugs,,
Cynthia
Cynthia, sweetie, email me with your mailing address. My email is JCSlan@JoannaSlan.com and I’ll send you some sea glass. I also pledge that I shall do my best to entertain you–and to keep crafting for you! (What a great excuse you’ve given me.) As for the snow, please stay safe and warm! I’m sending warmest wishes and hugs…your pal, j
Can’t wait to read this series
Anita, I hope you DON’T wait! Not only are there 11 books (and one almost done in the wings), but there are also nearly 30 short stories/novellas.
Sounds like a series I’m going to love!
Well, Kelly, don’t forget you can email Sally at salfl27@att.net for a free ebook to get you started!
Joanna Campbell Slan is a new author for me and “Shotgun, Wedding, Bells” sounds like a great book. I will have to check out the series. Thank you for the giveaway. myrifraf(at)gmail(dot)com
Jen, I aims to keep Miss Sally off the streets, so email her for a free ebook, why don’t you?
Definitely an add to my WishList……
Cyn209, don’t forget to email Sally for a free e-book. We do our best to make wishes come true.
This will be my first book by Joanna Campbell Slan and I’m really excited to read about the life and adventures of Kiki. Thank you, Dru and Joanna for the chance to win this giveaway! ❤️
Ruth, you are emailing Sally, right? Then this can be your SECOND book by moi! Hugs from your pal, j
This is one of my moms favorite series and I’d love to surprise her with this book. We are both avid readers and we can’t get enough of cozy mysteries. Keep ’em coming!!!!
Sha, send Sally an email, please, at salfl27@att.net I think we have a few Kiki Lowenstein tote bags. I’d be happy to sign one and send it to your mom.
It’s great to learn about new authors to try. I love your site Dru.
Dru is a rock star, isn’t she?
Oh what a fun sounding read!
Erik is turning out to be such a fun character. He’s always misunderstanding things people say. I was laughing out loud at one of the exchanges in Shotgun, Wedding, Bells. See…he thinks the BIG balls should go up high on the Christmas trees. And Kiki’s mother thinks the SMALL ones should. (And it gets worse.)
This series sounds fabulous, and I’ve just checked and it looks like you have several more books not in this one. I can’t wait to try your books, and really appreciate Dru’s Musings for giving me all the new authors. Thanks again for the heads-up and the chance to win these books.
KayK, I currently write two other series. One is set here in Florida. It features Cara Mia Delgatto, a friend of Kiki’s. Cara Mia has her own “upcycled, recycled, and repurposed” store where she gives junk (and people) a second chance. The other is a historical mystery series featuring Jane Eyre.
Oh, please let me be on a roll with the ‘Hogs-many” story. I LOVE this Kiki Lowenstein series. I think this is going to be so popular. I can’t wait to read #11. Fingers crossed. Kh38668(at)yahoo(dot)com
KTBEEblog–I wish you a hogs many chances to win. How’s that?
Thank you so much Joanna. I have sent a long e-mail to you. Fair warning. haha.
Cynthia B.
Read it. Answered it. Sent you my love!
I love your characters. Thanks for the series.
That’s so kind of you! I love them, too. They are like friends, you know?
I love this series! Can’t wait to read this next one! Thanks for the opportunity.
You can read the first chapter on my blog. Go to http://www.joannaslan.blogspot Enjoy!
Cute title. Would love to try it.
If you’d like to try the series, send an email to Sally, my assistant, at salfl27@att.net and she’ll “gift” you a copy of Ink, Red, Dead for your e-reader.
cant wait to read
Sounds like a good book. I started one once from the library.
Eager to get this one in my hands.
Yes, Dru Ann is the best.
Sounds like a fantastic series, would love to read!!
I love Kiki and her extended family…the new book sounds fun!
Love this series. Need to get back to it. Thanks for the giveaway!
This is a new series to me but i would be happy to start with this book. It sounds like fun.
I would love to read this book
Love the title.
Sounds like a great read and I love the cover! Thank you for the contest!
Thanks for the opportunity– sounds like a fun read!
Thanks Joanna for interacting with my readers.
Contest is closed.