News
Ranked in Top 1%
of all US Print Book Sales
for 500 Days to Date.
AUTHOR'S NOTE
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A Hundred More |
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Kathleen's Facebook Author page has now received forty-two hundred page Likes. This milestone reflects the growing interest in her Chloe Ellefson Mystery series and the approaching release of the tenth book, Fiddling With Fate.
Posted June 15, 2019. |
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Now at the Printer |
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Kathleen's tenth Chloe Ellefson mystery, Fiddling With Fate, is now at the printer! Orders have already propelled it into the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked—for a running total of over twenty-five days! (NPD BookScan.) September 8th is the official release date. Be one of the first to get a copy! Links to indie bookstores and online booksellers offering trade paperback and ebook copies of the new book can be found by clicking HERE. Posted June 14, 2019. |
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"This was a very interesting book." |
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This week's favorite reader review of The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted on Goodreads.com by Claudia in Lansing, Michigan. "I liked the characters and the plot. It was the first time I had read anything in this series, but now I plan to start with the first book to see how it all began." Posted June 13, 2019. |
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75th Anniversary - Advance Notice |
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The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is celebrating its 75th anniversary on June 28-30, 2019—and the Park has invited Kathleen to take part! Harper's Ferry (located where Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia meet) is a fascinating place, with a rich history, and the anniversary weekend will be full of interesting activities and events. Catch Kathleen on the Writing Harpers Ferry panel from 4-5 PM, Saturday the 29th. more>>
Posted June 6, 2019. |
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Creative Inspiration |
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Kathleen and her feline muse Eliza Jane are headed home today from the Upper Peninsula after a very successful week-long writing retreat. She snapped this a few days ago while seeking creative inspiration along the nearby Lake Superior shoreline. Posted June 4, 2019. |
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200 Days in Top 1% of Sales |
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The newest Chloe Ellefson mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was released in October. Based on pre- and post-release sales, it has now been ranked in the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books—for a running total of two hundred days. (Data Source: NPD BookScan.)
Lacemaker's is also available for the Kindle and other e-readers. Posted May 31, 2019. |
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Musing Takes Many Forms |
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This week Kathleen and her feline writing companion Eliza Jane are busy working (each in their own unique way) on a new book manuscript at a scenic, undisclosed location on the shore of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Mr. Ernst remains at home.
Posted May 30, 2019. |
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25 Days in Top 1% - Based on Pre-Orders |
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Thanks to the many wonderful fans of the Chloe Ellefson mystery series, pre-orders for trade paperback copies of her tenth book, Fiddling With Fate, have now propelled it into the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked—for a running total of twenty-five days! (NPD BookScan.) Fiddling arrives September 8th in print and for Kindle and other e-readers. more>> Posted May 28, 2019. |
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Away This Week |
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Kathleen and her feline muse Eliza Jane will be away this week at an undisclosed location in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, working on a manuscript. Mr. Ernst is remaining behind to keep the home office open. Fly fingers, fly, Kathleen! Posted May 27, 2019. |
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Perfect for Murder |
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Kathleen is honored to be included with a group of talented murder mystery authors who were spotlighted in an article, Wisconsin is the Perfect Setting for Murder, published today in the Wisconsin State Journal. more>> Posted May 26, 2019. |
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500 Days in Top 1% |
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This popular American Girl Felicity 3-Book Boxed Set includes two books by the famed author who created the Felicity character, Valerie Tripp, together with Kathleen's Gunpowder and Tea Cakes: My Journey With Felicity book. This set has now been ranked in the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked—for a running total of five hundred days! Source: NPD BookScan. more>> Posted May 26, 2019. |
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"A Really, Really, Really Good Read!" |
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This week's favorite reader review of The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted on Amazon.coms by Beverly W. "The characters are engaging, the writing excellent. Everyone I have recommended this book to has it enjoyed it and thanked me." Posted May 23, 2019. |
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20 Days in Top 1% - Based on Pre-Orders |
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Thanks to the many wonderful fans of the Chloe Ellefson mystery series, pre-orders for trade paperback copies of her tenth book, Fiddling With Fate, have propelled it into the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked—for a running total of twenty days! (NPD BookScan.) Fiddling arrives September 8th in print and for Kindle and other e-readers. more>> Posted May 20, 2019. |
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Syttende Mai in Stoughton WI |
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Kathleen and Mr. Ernst had a fabulous time today at Stoughton's annual Syttende Mai Norwegian Heritage festival. They particularly enjoyed hearing a Hardanger fiddle concert, eating a Norwegian meal at the Sons of Norway Lodge, viewing the Children's Parade, and taking in a performance of the always wonderful Stoughton Norwegian Dancers. Kathleen's next mystery, Fiddling With Fate, begins and ends in Stoughton—and features Chloe and Roelke visiting Norway to study Hardanger fiddle music and folk dancing (and to discover her ancestors). Fiddling arrives this September 8th. Posted May 18, 2019. |
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Discover Chloe's Norwegian Roots - This Weekend |
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Did you know that Chloe Ellefson—Kathleen's fictional (but oh so real) museum curator and reluctant sleuth—was born and raised in Stoughton, Wisconsin? It's a town with strong Norwegian roots; at one time, three-fourths of the residents spoke the language! You can enjoy that heritage this weekend during Stoughton's Syttende Mai Festival, featuring "three days of parades, amazing food and drink, arts and music, athletic competitions, and kids’ activities steeped in centuries of Norwegian culture." Chloe grew up performing at the festival in the Stoughton Norwegian Dancers, enjoying its many cultural programs (including lively Hardanger fiddle music), and sampling lots of traditional Norwegian foods like Krumkake and Lefse. Kathleen's next mystery, Fiddling With Fate, begins and ends in Stoughton, and features Chloe and Roelke visiting Norway to study Hardanger fiddle music and folk dancing (and to discover her ancestors). Get a jumpstart on Chloe 10 at Syttende Mai this weekend! Posted May 15, 2019. |
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"Always a Winner!" |
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The following is from a mystery fan who has read (and "strongly" recommended) all nine of Kathleen's Chloe Ellefson books. "I'm hoping one of these days she'll also publish a Chloe Ellefson cookbook, as her descriptions of the ethnic foods encountered in her novels are absolutely mouth-watering!" Posted May 14, 2019. |
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Lifetime Major Achievement Award |
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The Directors of the Council For Wisconsin Writers said this about why Kathleen received their 2019 Major Achievement Award today for her lifetime body of work. "Ernst has published 37 books—mysteries, historical novels, children's books, non-fiction. That's just the books. She has also published poetry and magazine articles, produced instructional videos, and written scripts for television series. Ernst demonstrates the kind of breath that any writer can appreciate (and many of us can envy). For her to have accomplished what she has in addition to a rich career as an historian and curator is all the more impressive. The list of awards for her writing across these different genres is longer than some people's list of publications—including, among others, seven different first-place and honorable mention awards from our own Council for Wisconsin Writers—and an Emmy. The accomplishments already listed would be enough, but there is more, and the fact that there is still more to her list of achievements—in and of itself—is perhaps the keystone slipping into place to lock in her case as the winner of this year's award." Past winners of the Council's Major Achievement Award include Jerry Apps, Norbert Blei, Jane Hamilton, Kevin Henkes, and John Nichols. Posted May 11, 2019. |
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Scribble Interview - Now Streaming |
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During her Quad Cities visit, Kathleen was interviewed by Don Wooten and Roald Tweet, the delightful hosts of WVIK radio's weekly Scribble program. They talked about her Chloe Ellefson mysteries, The Lacemaker's Secret, writing, and getting published. Their conversation can now be heard online by clicking HERE. Posted May 11, 2019. |
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Award Ceremony - Advance Notice |
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The Council For Wisconsin Writers will honor Kathleen for her lifetime of writing with their 2019 Major Achievement Award. She will receive it at the Council's annual banquet this coming Saturday, May 11th, at the Wisconsin Club in Milwaukee. Posted May 4, 2019. |
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"Another A++ effort!" |
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This week's favorite reader review of The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted on GoodReads by Larry F. Sommers. "One of the most enjoyable and informative reads of Kathleen Ernst's now nine-book Chloe Ellefson series." Posted May 1, 2019. |
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"It's a Masterpiece." |
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Maddy Hunter, author of the delightfully humorous Passport to Peril mystery series, has written this about Kathleen's next Chloe mystery. "Fiddling with Fate is a riveting page-turner that culminates in a nail-biting ending. It is more than superlative fiction. It's a masterpiece. This latest installment in the Chloe Ellefson series checks all the boxes -- an historical mystery that spans two centuries, a contemporary mystery that marries heart-stopping adventure with a quest for secret identities and family heirlooms, a setting so vivid that it becomes one of the most haunting characters in the story, and the continuation of a love story that has not only survived the test of time but has flourished." Fiddling With Fate arrives September 8th from Midnight Ink. It can be ordered now as a trade paperback and for Kindle and other e-readers. Posted April 28, 2019. |
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Happy Indie Bookstore Day! |
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Independent Bookstore Day is a one-day national party taking place at indie bookstores across the country on the last Saturday in April. Every store is unique and independent, and every party is different. But in addition to authors, live music, cupcakes, scavenger hunts, kids events, art tables, readings, barbecues, contests, and other fun stuff, there are exclusive books and literary items you can only get today. Posted April 27, 2019. |
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Culture Preserved - Moline IL |
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Before heading home from the Quad Cities, Kathleen visited Moline's Center for Belgian Culture. Most of the Belgians who settled in the area were Flemish. They arrived after the Walloon settlers in Wisconsin—subjects of Kathleen's The Lacemaker's Secret.
The Center is part museum, part library, and part gathering place. Kathleen describes it as "a wonderful tribute to local Belgian heritage." It is open to the public Wednesdays and Saturdays afternoons. |
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History Saved - Hampton IL |
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Tom McKay, president of the Hampton Historical Society, gave Kathleen a tour of the Society's building during her Quad Cities visit. The 1849 Brettun & Black store was built on the Mississippi River bank with its own dock where steamboats landed passengers and supplies. The store was in rough shape before the Society bought and lovingly restored it. Black's Store Museum is open to the public on summer weekend afternoons. Check out its restored hand-cranked freight elevator. Kathleen salutes the Hampton Historical Society for all it has done and is doing to preserve this piece of American history. Posted April 25, 2019. |
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Quad Cities - Wonderful Crowd |
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Kathleen was delighted by the wonderful crowd that came for her Chloe Ellefson Mysteries program, yesterday evening in the Quad Cities. The event was sponsored by the Hampton (IL) Historical Society, the Center for Belgian Culture (Moline), and the Midwest Writing Center (Rock Island). Kathleen thanks the sponsors and all those who attended. This was her first visit to the Quad Cities and she had "loads of fun!"
Posted April 24, 2019. |
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Talkin' with Wooten & Tweet |
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During this week's Quad Cities visit, Kathleen was interviewed by Don Wooten and Roald Tweet, the delightful hosts of WVIK radio's weekly Scribble program. They talked about her Chloe Ellefson mysteries, The Lacemaker's Secret, and writing and getting published. Their conversation will be broadcast and released as a podcast on May 11th.
Posted April 23, 2019. |
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Chloe Program - April 23rd |
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You are invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her award-winning nine book Chloe Ellefson mystery series—including the newest, The Lacemaker's Secret, about Belgian-American pioneers, and a 'sneak peek' at the next Chloe story!
Kathleen will also share how working at Old World Wisconsin influenced her Chloe character, how her research into police work helped shape Chloe's love interest, officer Roelke McKenna, and how she crafts their stories. Kathleen will also answer audience questions, award door prizes, and sign books (copies will be available for purchase). This free, hour-long public event is co-sponsored by the Hampton Historical Society, the Center for Belgian Culture in Moline, and the Midwest Writing Center in Rock Island. Kathleen's program begins at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, April 23rd, at the Hampton United Methodist Church, 400 2nd Avenue, in Hampton, Illinois. Posted April 16, 2019. |
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"Places we love." |
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Kathleen recently received this sweet message from Nancy A. on Facebook. "We thought you were writing just for us because your [Chloe Ellefson] books are so personal and specific to places we love." Posted April 13, 2019. |
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Take that, Bomb Cyclone |
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Despite rain, snow, sleet, high winds, and thunderstorms—they came. Eighteen hearty souls braved the bomb cyclone last night to attend Kathleen's Chloe Ellefson Mysteries program at the Belleville Public Library. Thanks to everyone who took part, and to the librarians and the friends of the library for sponsoring the event. The Village of Belleville (pop. 2,425) clearly supports their library; first established in 1894, it will move into a new 13,805 square foot Library and Community Center in 2020. Posted April 12, 2019. |
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"Loved this book." |
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This week's favorite reader review of the ninth Chloe mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted by tl on Amazon.com. "I loved this book. The way the author combines fiction and history makes the Chloe Ellefson series some of the best books I have ever read. This time I learned about the Belgian people who settled in the Green Bay area. I even you tubed some videos of Bobbin Lace making to see what it was all about and was amazed at the talent of people who still do this work! As usual, I'm anxiously awaiting the next one!" Posted April 11, 2019. |
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Chloe's Coming to Belleville - Tomorrow! |
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The public is invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her award-winning, Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson mystery series. The program will include a special focus on her newest book, The Lacemaker's Secret, set in Green Bay and Door County—plus a brief reveal of the upcoming tenth Chloe mystery! This free hour-long event is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Belleville Public Library and begins at 6:30 PM, Thursday, April 11th, at the Public Library in Belleville WI. Posted April 10, 2019. |
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Last night at the Waupun Public Library Kathleen enjoyed an hour with an avid group of readers—some of whom were unfamiliar with the Chloe Ellefson mysteries. Stories were shared, door prizes awarded, and books purchased. It was a fun evening. Special thanks to Pamelyn Garcia and her staff, and to the Friends of Waupun Library.
Posted April 10, 2019. |
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"Proud, strong women..." |
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Patricia Skalka, award-winning author of the popular Dave Cubiak Door County Mystery series, has written this about Chloe 10. "Fiddling with Fate is a story about proud, strong women and bitter dark secrets. In her richly-detailed and multi-faceted mystery, Kathleen Ernest skillfully intertwines the past with the present as Chloe Ellefson searches for her family roots in Norway amid escalating danger." Fiddling With Fate arrives September 8th from Midnight Ink. It can be ordered now as a trade paperback and for Kindle and other e-readers. Posted April 9, 2019. |
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Chloe's Coming to Waupun - Tomorrow! |
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The public is invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her award-winning, Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson mystery series. The program will include a special focus on her newest book, The Lacemaker's Secret, set in Green Bay and Door County—plus a brief reveal of the upcoming tenth Chloe mystery! This free hour-long event is co-sponsored by the Friends of Waupun Public Library and begins at 6:30 PM, Tuesday, April 9th, at the Waupun Public Library in Waupun WI. Posted April 8, 2019. |
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Eighth Printing |
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The first edition of the first book in the Chloe Ellefson mystery series is now in its eighth printing since it was first published eight years ago. During those eight years, sales of Old World Murder trade paperback copies have earned it a ranking in the Top 1% of all US Print book sales—out of over 8 million books tracked—for a running total of over 370 days! (Source: NPS BookScan.) Posted April 8, 2019. |
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Second Vesterheim Class |
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Having just completed a two-day beginning Norwegian Hardanger Embroidery class at the Vesterheim Folk Arts School, Kathleen is now taking a two-day follow-on class! The image shown is of the sampler she has nearly finished creating. more>>
Posted April 7, 2019. |
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"Love this series" |
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Kathleen discovered this delightful post by dog and cat mom. "I've read all of the Chloe Ellefson mysteries and am always looking forward to when the next book comes out. ...If you like historical fiction and cozy mysteries, you will love this series." Posted April 5, 2019. |
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Well-Earned Time Away |
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Having finished off her major edits to the Fiddling With Fate manuscript, Kathleen is now in Decorah IA, taking a two-day Norwegian Hardanger Embroidery beginners class at the Vesterheim Folk Arts School. (Yes, this embroidery appears in FWF.)
Posted April 4, 2019. |
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Major Achievement Award |
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The Council For Wisconsin Writers has named Kathleen winner of their 2019 Major Achievement Award honoring the work of a Wisconsin writer who deserves special recognition for their literary merit.
Past winners of the Major Achievement Award include such noted Wisconsin writers as Jerry Apps, Norbert Blei, Jane Hamilton, Kevin Henkes, and John Nichols. In previous years the Council has individually honored two of Kathleen's Chloe Ellefson adult mystery novels, The Heirloom Murders and Mining For Justice (Midnight Ink), and five of her children’s books: Meet Caroline (American Girl), Hearts of Stone (Dutton), Betrayal at Cross Creek (Pleasant Company), and Retreat From Gettysburg and Ghosts of Vicksburg (White Mane). The Major Achievement Award comes on the heels of Kathleen winning the Sterling North Legacy Award for Excellence in Children’s Literature and being named a Notable Author by the Wisconsin Library Association. Kathleen will be receive her award at the Council's annual banquet on Saturday, May 11th, at the Wisconsin Club in Milwaukee. Posted April 3, 2019. |
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Manuscript Milestone |
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Today Kathleen wrapped up her last major edits to the Chloe 10 manuscript. The book's Acknowledgements, Author's Note, Cast of Characters, and Dedication are still to be written. Later she will give the the final version a light review for typos, etc., before publisher Midnight Ink sends Fiddling With Fate to the printer. As of today, all is on-track for the story's release this September 8th in trade paperback and multiple ebook formats. Posted March 29, 2019. |
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Chloe Program - Advance Notice |
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You are invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her award-winning nine book Chloe Ellefson mystery series—including the newest story, The Lacemaker's Secret, about Belgian-American pioneers and a 'sneak peek' at the next Chloe story!
Kathleen will also share how working at Old World Wisconsin influenced her Chloe character, how her research into police work helped shape Chloe's love interest, officer Roelke McKenna, and how she crafts their stories. Kathleen will also answer audience questions, award door prizes, and sign books (copies will be available for purchase). This free, hour-long public event is co-sponsored by the Hampton Historical Society, the Center for Belgian Culture in Moline, and the Midwest Writing Center in Rock Island. Kathleen's program begins at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, April 23rd, at the Hampton United Methodist Church, 400 2nd Avenue, in Hampton, Illinois. Posted March 29, 2019. |
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Five Stars |
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This week's favorite reader review of the ninth Chloe Ellefson mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted on NetGallery by Susan G., an educator. "The Lacemaker's Secret is a rare gem in the world of cozy mysteries. Part historical fiction, part mystery, but full of a unique storyline that keeps readers guessing at each and every page." Posted March 29, 2019. |
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Belleville WI - Chloe Program - Advance Notice |
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You are invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her nine book, award-winning, Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson mystery series—including the newest story, The Lacemaker's Secret, and a 'sneak peek' at the next Chloe story!
Kathleen will also share how her years working at Old World Wisconsin influenced her Chloe character, how her research into police work helped shape Chloe's love interest, officer Roelke McKenna, and how she researches and writes their stories. And Kathleen will answer audience questions, award door prizes, and sign books (copies will be available for purchase). This free, hour-long public event is sponsored by the Friends of the Belleville Public Library in honor of National Library Week. Kathleen's program begins at 6:30 PM, Thursday, April 11th, at the Belleville Public Library. Posted March 28, 2019. |
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Large Print Giveaway - Winners! |
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The winners of Kathleen's Large Print Giveaway are DIANNE MARTINAGANO, MIRIAM R. NELSON, and KATHLEEN NEWBERG! Each gets an author signed, personalized, large print hardcover of The Lacemaker's Secret, the ninth and newest mystery in the award-winning Chloe Ellefson series. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who entered! Posted March 28, 2019. |
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"...a wonderful trip to take." |
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Kathleen received this delightful message from Eileen in Cape Cod, MA, who describes herself as "a semi-retired librarian." "Thank you for another Chloe Ellefson mystery. ...Thank you also for your research, your historical fiction is so enlightening. I am a New Englander and reading about Wisconsin is such a wonderful trip to take." Posted March 27, 2019. |
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Large Print Giveaway! |
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To celebrate tomorrow's release of a large print hardcover edition of her ninth Chloe Ellefson mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, Kathleen is giving away three signed and personalized copies!
To enter, leave a comment on the giveaway post on her Facebook Author page or her Sites And Stories Blog before 11:59 PM (Central US time), this Wednesday, March 27, 2019. One entry per person, please. The winners will be chosen at random and announced the next day—here and on her Facebook and blog pages! Posted March 26, 2019. |
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Waupun WI - Chloe Program - Advance Notice |
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You are invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her nine book, award-winning, Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson mystery series—including the newest story, The Lacemaker's Secret, and a 'sneak peek' at the upcoming tenth book.
Kathleen will also share how her years working at Old World Wisconsin influenced her Chloe character, how her research into police work helped shape Chloe's love interest, officer Roelke McKenna, and how she researches and writes their stories. And Kathleen will answer audience questions, award door prizes, and sign books (copies will be available for purchase). This free, hour-long public event beginning at 6:30 PM, Tuesday, April 9th, at the Waupun Public Library in Waupun WI. Posted March 25, 2019. |
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Good Time in Montello! |
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This afternoon Kathleen and Mr. Ernst visited Reader's Realm, a beautiful independent bookstore in Montello, WI. Thanks to all who came, and to owner Kathleen Ludden for the invitation. Expect a return this fall—after Chloe 10, Fiddling With Fate, comes out! Posted March 24, 2019. |
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175 Days in Top 1% |
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The newest Chloe Ellefson mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was released in October. Based on pre- and post-release sales, it has now been ranked in the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked—for a running total of one hundred seventy-five days. (NPD BookScan.)
Lacemaker's is also available for the Kindle and other e-readers. Posted March 22, 2019. |
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Editing Chloe 10 in Oregon |
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Today Kathleen finished making her edits to the Fiddling With Fate manuscript in Oregon WI at Firefly, her "new favorite coffeehouse." Next she'll work through the comments coming from the story's editors and content experts. Kathleen must send the latest, near-final version of the book to publisher Midnight Ink by April 1st.
Posted March 21, 2019. |
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"So glad I spotted this book..." |
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This week's favorite reader review of the ninth Chloe Ellefson mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted on Goodreads by Mary from southwest Ohio. "I don't know which I enjoyed more the present day story and characters, the past story and characters, or the story of the the lace. These three intertwined stories made for a great read." Posted March 21, 2019. |
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This Sunday in Montello WI |
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Meet Kathleen, bestselling author of the award-winning Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson Historic Sites mystery series, and get an autographed copy of any of her nine Chloe stories, including the newest, The Lacemaker's Secret, set in Green Bay and Door County, WI. Ask her about the next Chloe book, which is set for release this September. This free public signing will run from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, this Sunday, March 24th at the Readers Realm Bookstore in Montello, WI.
Posted March 20, 2019. |
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Editing Chloe 10 in Evansville |
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This was Kathleen's 'work space' today at Real Coffee at Daun in Evansville WI. She was there editing the manuscript of her next Chloe Ellefson mystery, Fiddling With Fate. This will be the tenth story in this popular, award-winning, Wisconsin-based series. It is scheduled for release in early September and already available for pre-order in trade paperback and ebook formats. more>> Posted March 19, 2019. |
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Not Your Typical St. Patrick's Day in Palatine |
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Kathleen wishes to thank the Sons of Norway Skjold Lodge in Palatine, Illinois and the fifty-plus people who came to hear her Chloe Ellefson mysteries program yesterday. Kathleen—a Swiss/Scottish/Dutch-American—had a delightful time discussing Norwegian Heritage with the Sons of Norway at the local Ukrainian Center on St. Patrick's Day! Posted March 18, 2019. |
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Hardanger Fiddle Making |
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Yesterday Kathleen and Mr. Ernst attended a great presentation by Hardanger Fiddle maker Karen Rebholz. She spoke about these traditional Norwegian instruments, named for the Hardanger Fjord area in Norway, and about studying with a master fiddle maker in Voss. Her program took place at the wonderful Livsreise (Life's Journey) Norwegian Heritage Center in Stoughton, WI. Posted March 17, 2019. |
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Palatine IL - Chloe Program - This Sunday |
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The Sons of Norway Skjold Lodge invites the public to join them for Kathleen's richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her award-winning Chloe Ellefson Historic Sites mystery series. The program will include a special focus on Chloe's Norwegian-American heritage—plus a brief reveal of the upcoming tenth Chloe mystery! Door prizes and a book signing (copies will be available for purchase) round out this free, hour-long event—which begins shortly after 2 PM, March 17th, at the Ukrainian Center in Palatine IL. Posted March 14, 2019. |
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Seven Time Winner |
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Kathleen was just named a 2018 All Star Award Winner for email effectiveness by Constant Contact, which provides email marketing services to 5 million small businesses and non-profits. This is the seventh consecutive year she has earned this honor. Less than five percent of Constant Contact customers are multi-year All Star Award recipients. Posted March 14, 2019. |
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Montello WI - Book Signing - Advance Notice |
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Meet Kathleen Ernst, bestselling author of the award-winning Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson Historic Sites mystery series. Get autographed copies of her now nine Chloe books, including the newest, The Lacemaker's Secret, set in Green Bay and Door County. Ask her about the tenth Chloe mystery, coming this September. This free public event will run from 1-3:00 PM, Sunday, March 24th. more>>
Posted March 13, 2019. |
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15 Days in Top 1% - Based on Pre-Orders! |
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Thanks to the many wonderful fans of the Chloe Ellefson mystery series, pre-orders for trade paperback copies of her tenth book, Fiddling With Fate, have propelled it into the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked—for a running total of fifteen days! (NPD BookScan.) Fiddling is also available for the Kindle and other e-readers. more>> Posted March 10, 2019. |
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Palatine IL - Chloe Ellefson Program - Advance Notice |
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The public is invited to join Kathleen for a Norwegian-American version of her richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of the award-winning Chloe Ellefson mystery series. This free public program is sponsored by the Sons of Norway Skjold Lodge and will include a brief reveal of the upcoming tenth Chloe mystery—set in Norway!
Kathleen will share how her years working at Old World Wisconsin influenced her Chloe character, how her research into police work helped shape Chloe's love interest, Roelke McKenna, and how she researches and writes their stories. Door prizes and a book signing (copies will be available for purchase) round out this hour-long event that begins shortly after 2:00 PM, Sunday, March 17th, at the Ukrainian Center in Palatine IL. Posted March 10, 2019. |
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Port Washington - Great Group! |
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Kathleen was delighted with the warm welcome she received yesterday in response to her Chloe Ellefson mysteries program. This free public event was made possible by the W.J. Niederkorn Public Library and the Port Washington Adult Community Senior Center. Thanks to both organizations—and all the wonderful Chloe fans who attended!
Posted March 9, 2019. |
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Chloe Ellefson Program - Tomorrow |
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The public is invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her award-winning, Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson mystery series. The program will include a special focus on her newest book, The Lacemaker's Secret, set in Green Bay and Door County—plus a brief reveal of the upcoming tenth Chloe mystery! This free hour-long event is co-sponsored by the Adult Community Senior Center and begins at 10:30 AM, Friday, March 8th, at the W.J. Niederkorn Public Library. Posted March 7, 2019. |
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Fiddling With Fate - Revealed! |
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"Is there anything more exciting for an author than turning in a manuscript for a new book? Yes! Anticipating publication day. The 10th Chloe Ellefson mystery..." more>>
Posted March 3, 2019 on the Sites And Stories blog. |
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"Love Your Writing!!!" |
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Kathleen received this delightful message from Jan H. in Illinois who wrote about how she and her sister learned of the Chloe mysteries from their dental office receptionist. "We started in September with book one and are anxiously awaiting the new one coming out!! Really enjoyed all of them, but especially the last one on lacemaking [The Lacemaker's Secret]. We are both avid crocheters, knitters, and sewers... The book on the Civil War [A Memory of Muskets] was also one of my favorites and my sis liked the one on the flour factory [Tradition of Deceit] . Hopefully, we can visit the areas mentioned in the book this summer on some girls only trips." Posted March 1, 2019. |
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Chloe 10 - Off to the Publisher! |
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Kathleen is feeling so comfortable with the manuscript of her tenth Chloe Ellefson mystery that she just sent it to publisher Midnight Ink—a day before the deadline! And now you can read a 'sneak peek' of the story's opening paragraphs by clicking HERE.
Posted February 28, 2019. |
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"Really enjoyed...the historical aspect" |
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This week's favorite reader review of the ninth Chloe mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted on Goodreads by Fred, a cozy fan from northeast Indiana. "A wonderful addition to this very exciting series. It is well-plotted and well written with wonderful characters. I will be watching for the next book in this series." Posted February 27, 2019. |
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Chloe 10 Deadline - One Week Left |
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This coming Friday, March 1st, is the publisher's deadline for Kathleen to turn in the manuscript for her tenth Chloe Ellefson mystery. All chapters are written and the story is close to its target of 95,000 words, but a few historical details still need to be checked and a review for typos completed. The book is set to come out September 8th!
Posted February 22, 2019. |
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Our Lady Of Good Help |
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"Adele Brise was born in Belgium in 1831, and immigrated to Wisconsin with her family in 1855. The Brise family settled about 16 miles northeast of the city of Green Bay in Robinsonville, now Champion, Wisconsin. Little is known of Adele’s early years, but she was remembered as a devout young woman. In October, 1859, apparitions of the Virgin Mary occurred to Adele as she..." more>> Posted February 22, 2019 on the Sites And Stories blog. |
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Chloe Ellefson Program - Advance Notice |
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The public is invited to join Kathleen for a richly illustrated 'behind the scenes' tour of her award-winning, Wisconsin-based Chloe Ellefson mystery series. This free program will include a special focus on her newest book, The Lacemaker's Secret, set in Green Bay and Door County—plus a brief reveal of the upcoming tenth Chloe mystery!
Kathleen will also share how her years working at Old World Wisconsin influenced her Chloe character, how her research into police work helped shape Chloe's love interest, Roelke McKenna, and how she researches and writes their stories. Door prizes and a book signing (copies will be available) round out this hour-long event that begins at 10:30 AM, Friday, March 8th, at the W.J. Niederkorn Public Library in Port Washington, WI. Posted February 22, 2019. |
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"Warning: book series can be addicting." |
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Teresa R. recently posted this sweet note on Kathleen's Facebook Author page about her experience reading the Chloe Ellefson mysteries. "Symptoms include going to bed early to squeeze in another chapter and researching the locations referenced for the next road trip. Side effects include buying a copy of Old World Murder for daughter who happens to live in Waukesha County." Posted February 20, 2019. |
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Kathleen Ernst Interview |
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"What is the title of your newest book? How many books have you published?" My newest is The Lacemaker's Secret: A Chloe Ellefson Mystery (Midnight Ink, 2018). It's the 9th book in the series, and my 37th published book! It took me a long time to hone my craft well enough to break in, so I find that number a bit astounding." more>> Posted February 19, 2019 on the Map Your Mystery blog. |
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The Lacemaker's Secret - New Milestone |
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Thanks to Kathleen's many wonderful Chloe Ellefson fans, this week trade paperback sales of the The Lacemaker's Secret surpassed one hundred fifty days ranked in the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked! (NPD BookScan.) Lacemaker's is also available for the Kindle and other e-readers. Posted February 16, 2019. |
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2 Weeks to Chloe 10 Deadline |
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Kathleen took this photo of her 'work space' at the coffee shop where she has been reviewing the manuscript of her tenth Chloe Ellefson mystery. She finished writing the story earlier this week, and is now busy smoothing rough prose, confirming historical details, and editing it down to about 95,000 words. Kathleen will remain at this until she sends the manuscript to Midnight Ink on February 28th. Another mocha, Kathleen? Posted February 14, 2019. |
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"A fellow librarian introduced me to..." |
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Taryn wrote about the Chloe Ellefson mysteries on Kathleen's Sites And Stories blog. "A fellow librarian introduced me to the Chloe series about 3 years ago. I read the first and was hooked. I thoroughly enjoy the characters, the stories and the way history is seamlessly woven into the plots." Posted February 9, 2019. |
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-13F Wind Chill Didn't Stop'em |
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This afternoon Kathleen switched from writing Chloe 10 to teaching her Food Traditions writing workshop at Write On Door County. It filled up in advance and almost everyone was able to get there—despite the frigid temps! Kathleen says it was a great (and hardy) group and that she had a wonderful time with them. Posted February 8, 2019. |
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"Interesting and well written" |
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This week's favorite reader review of the ninth Chloe mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was posted by T. DeGuelle of Wisconsin on Amazon.com. "This was an excellent representation of the local area and history of the Door/Brown County area. As a lifetime resident and being of Belgian heritage, I felt she did a fantastic job of representing the culture. It accurately represented the Belgian faith and customs. She tied a mystery of the missing Belgian lace into the story. The characters were strong, faithful, hard working and kind. The book accurately describes the struggles they endured." Posted February 7, 2019. |
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Writing Retreat - Update |
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Kathleen sent this wintery scene photo, taken on her Chloe 10 writing retreat this week. The snow proved too deep for the contemplative walk she attempted, but Kathleen says the peaceful setting is helping her get lots of writing done. Fly fingers, fly, Kathleen! Posted February 6, 2019. |
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Food Traditions Workshop - This Friday |
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This Friday Kathleen will take the afternoon off from writing the tenth Chloe Ellefson mystery . . . to teach a free writing workshop! Come learn how to recall, record, and celebrate the food traditions of your family or community. It's open to adults and teens—no writing or culinary experience needed. Participation is free, but prior registration is required. Seats are limited and will be filled on a first come basis. Join Kathleen from 1-4 PM, February 8th, at Write On Door County in Fish Creek, WI. more>>
Posted February 4, 2019. |
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Writing Retreat |
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Kathleen just departed for a week-long solo winter writing retreat. She will use the time for researching, writing, and editing the manuscript of her tenth Chloe Ellefson mystery. It is due into publisher Midnight Ink at the end of this month—for release on September 8th. Fly fingers, fly, Kathleen! Posted February 3, 2019. |
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9 Book Lacemaker's Giveaway - Winners |
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The winners of Kathleen's 9 Book Lacemakers Giveaway are JACKI BEDWORTH, SUE GALLAGHER, KAY JOHNSON, KAREN MAYERS, HOPE MCLEOD, CINDY PATTERSON, LINDA ROEHRIG, BETH ROGERS, and MARGARET WURTH. Congratulations! Each gets an author signed, personalized, trade paperback of The Lacemaker's Secret, the ninth and newest mystery in the award-winning Chloe Ellefson series. Each winner should immediately contact Kathleen with their signing, personalization, and postal mailing information by clicking HERE. Posted January 31, 2019. |
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9 Book Lacemaker's Giveaway - Starts Now |
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Kathleen is giving away nine trade paperback copies of her ninth Chloe Ellefson mystery: The Lacemaker's Secret. To enter, leave a comment on the giveaway post on her Facebook Author page or her Sites And Stories Blog before 11:59 PM (Central US time), Wednesday, January 30, 2019. Only one entry per person, please. The winners will be chosen at random and announced the next day, here and on her Facebook and blog! Posted January 29, 2019. |
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Chloe Ellefson Mysteries Update |
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"The 10th Chloe Ellefson Mystery, scheduled for release in September, 2019, will be the last one released by publisher Midnight Ink—which is shutting down. While that isn’t good news, since the announcement I’ve been overwhelmed by the support from wonderful Chloe and Roelke fans. Thank you all! I do want to continue the series. My upbeat and savvy literary agent has already sent a proposal to a press which has..." more>> Posted January 25, 2019 on the Sites And Stories blog. |
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"I normally don't read mysteries..." |
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This arrived recently from Ginny Nelson in Wisconsin. She wrote about how her great-great-grandparents escaped the Great Fire of 1871 by hiding in a field as flames surrounded their farm and consumed their home. "As far as I know, none of my Belgian ancestors made lace, but otherwise the early settlers [in The Lacemaker's Secret] could have been my relatives. ...you nailed the Belgian history in Wisconsin!" Posted January 25, 2019. |
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Foodways Writing Workshop - Register Now! |
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JUST ANNOUNCED. Kathleen will be teaching how to recall, record, and celebrate the food traditions of your family or community. This half-day workshop is open to adults and teens—no writing or culinary experience needed. Participation is free, but prior registration is required. Seats are limited and will be filled on a first come basis. Join Kathleen from 1-4 PM, February 8th, at Write On, Door County in Fish Creek, WI. more>>
Posted January 24, 2019. |
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"Eagerly awaited..." |
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This week's favorite reader review of The Lacemaker's Secret was posted by D. Zendel of New Mexico on Amazon.com. "I have worked alongside people like Chloe, smart, dedicated people who should be making way more money than they are for protecting and preserving a state’s natural and cultural resources, but who stay for the love of history and the properties they are charged with caring for. She is very real to me..." more>> Posted January 23, 2019. |
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Libby's Legendary Banana Bread Pudding |
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"Sometimes you just need some comfort food—something steaming and fragrant and utterly delicious. The 9th Chloe Ellefson Mystery, The Lacemaker’s Secret, begins at just such a moment. ". . . Libby turned and cracked the oven door. A rich wave of banana, vanilla, and cinnamon swirled into the room. “Please tell me that’s Libby’s Legendary Banana Bread Pudding." more>>
Posted January 22, 2019 on the Sites And Stories blog. |
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Discussion Guide - Now Available |
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Good news for mystery book discussion groups! Kathleen just posted a Discussion Guide for her newest Chloe mystery. Download a free copy from The Lacemaker’s Secret page—or by clicking HERE.
Posted January 15, 2019. |
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Belgian Spice Cookies |
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"The latest Chloe Ellefson Mystery, The Lacemaker’s Secret, celebrates Belgian heritage, so of course my research included foodways. I quickly came across references to Belgian Spice Cookies, also called Speculoos. These crisp spiced shortbread cookies..." more>>
Posted January 8, 2019 on the Sites And Stories blog. |
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"Kept me guessing!" |
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This arrived yesterday from Ann Thomas in Massachusetts. "Just finished Lacemaker's Secret and loved it. You bring so much history into your books that I am always learning about fascinating characters. This recent book really kept me guessing! I will be 86 in a few weeks, and have read your previous Chloe adventures. Looking forward to the next!" Posted January 7, 2019. |
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Messages Lost |
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Each page on this website has a Contact link leading to a form that can be used to sent Kathleen a message. Yesterday she was shocked to learn that during the last six weeks all those messages sent to her were lost—before she received them—and cannot be recovered.
One of the joys of being an author is hearing from readers, and Kathleen is very conscientious about replying to the messages she gets. If you sent her a message anytime between 11/24/2018 and 1/5/2019, she asks that you please resend it using her now repaired message form. Thank you. |
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"Fabulous author" |
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From reader Paul Bunyan comes this review of The Lacemaker's Secret. "Kathleen Ernst is a fabulous author. Her stories make me want to jump in the car and visit the historical sites." Posted January 3, 2019. |
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133 Days in Top 1% |
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The newest Chloe Ellefson mystery, The Lacemaker's Secret, was released on October 8th. Based on pre- and post-release sales, it has spent one hundred thirty-three days in the Top 1% of all US Print Book Sales—out of over 8 million books tracked. (NPD BookScan.)
Lacemaker's is also available for the Kindle and other e-readers. Posted January 1, 2019. |
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