A New Chapter Opens Jan 1.

I genuinely thought I’d coast into the new year with a mug of tea, a blanket, and zero surprises. But apparently I’m ringing in January 1st with… fictional crime. As one does.

Somehow — and I’m still not convinced time works correctly — I came up with the idea for Vale & Stone just a few months ago, and now their first case is practically knocking on the door, asking if I’ve got room for one more in my end-of-year chaos. (Answer: always.)

So yes, it’s happening. Murder at the Midsummer Feast arrives January 1. A summer celebration layered with secrets, a town that pretends to be sunnier than it is, and two investigators cautiously stepping into each other’s orbit for the very first time.

I’ll save the deeper rambling for launch day — the cozy-meets-gothic heart of the story, the origin-not-origin chaos, and the moment I realized Blackvale had fully moved into my brain and refused to pay rent. That’s a Thursday conversation.

For now, just know this: a new chapter is opening. A new series is waking up. And I’m so excited to take this first step into a year filled with stories, mystery, and the perfect amount of fictional trouble.

Here’s to new beginnings — and to starting 2026 with a delightfully suspicious bang.

Until next time,

J.P.

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