Low Carb Sleuthing in a High Carb World - a journey to better diabetic health

🕵️‍♀️ Hello, fellow Low Carb Sleuths! 🕵️‍♂️

Your favorite sleuth is back on the case... the case of my own health! After a bit of a detour (a week of antibiotics for a pesky diabetic ulcer, those mini-fevers, and the blood sugar rollercoaster that followed!), I'm officially back on the Low Carb train.

I got my latest A1C results, and thankfully, it only nudged up by .1! Phew! But it's a reminder that I need to be extra vigilant.

This time, I'm adding a secret weapon to my arsenal: fish oil! I've heard it can be a real brain booster, especially when those carb cravings hit and the mental fog rolls in. So, I'm giving it a try.

Here's my current investigation plan:

• Consistent Low Carb Meals: Back to focusing on lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of non-starchy veggies.
• Regular Exercise: Even a little movement makes a big difference.
• Mindful Monitoring: Keeping a close eye on my blood sugar levels and tracking my progress.
• Fish Oil Supplement: Hoping this helps keep my mind sharp and focused.

I know this journey isn't always easy, but I'm determined to stay on the right track. I'm sharing my experience to encourage anyone else who might be facing similar challenges. Remember, we're all in this together!

What are your favorite Low Carb tips and tricks? Share them in the comments below! Let's sleuth our way to better health!

#LowCarbSleuth #DiabeticDiet #LowCarbLife #HealthJourney #FishOil #BloodSugarControl #DiabetesAwareness #HealthyLiving #BackOnTrack #InvestInYourHealth

Sleuthing Through Spiced Lattes & Lighthouse Secrets! A Cozy Mystery Book Bonanza

 

Greetings, fellow bookworms and armchair detectives! Your friendly neighborhood Reading Sleuth is back on the case, and let me tell you, my reading pile is overflowing with mysteries, spiced lattes, and a dash of vintage charm!

First up, we have "Poppy Harmon Investigates" by Lee Hollis. Now, if you're a fan of classic TV like me, you'll adore this one. It's like stepping back into the glamour of "Remington Steele," but with a delightful twist! Poppy Harmon, our savvy sleuth, is a breath of fresh air. She's got the brains, the wit, and a whole lot of style. It's a fun, lighthearted read that's perfect for curling up with a cup of tea and a cozy blanket. If you love a good "who-done-it" with a dash of nostalgia, this is your book!

Next, I've just brewed up a fresh pot of "Cold Brew Corpse" by Tara Lush. Talk about a caffeine kick! This mystery is as refreshing as an iced latte on a hot summer day. The setting is vibrant, the characters are intriguing, and the mystery itself is as layered as a perfectly crafted cold brew. If you're looking for a contemporary mystery with a touch of romance and a whole lot of flavor, grab this one!

Then, I'm currently navigating the mysteries of "The Lighthouse on Plum Island" by Amy Rafferty. This one has that atmospheric, coastal charm that I just can't resist. The lighthouse setting is simply enchanting, and the secrets lurking beneath the surface are keeping me turning pages late into the night. It's a perfect blend of mystery and suspense, with a touch of historical intrigue. If you love a good lighthouse story, this one will shine!

And finally, I'm indulging in the seasonal delight of "Pumpkin Spice Spice Baby" by Kerry Evelyn. Oh, the cozy vibes! This book is like a warm hug on a crisp autumn day. The small-town setting is charming, the characters are relatable, and the mystery has just the right amount of spice. It's a perfect read for the fall season, especially if you're a fan of pumpkin spice everything!

So, there you have it, my fellow sleuths! A peek into my current reading adventures. What are you reading this week? Share your recommendations in the comments below!

Until next time, keep your eyes peeled and your books close!

Your Reading Sleuth,

Toni Walker

What Inspires You To Read? Here are my answers

 

As I was reading the Sarah E Burr book, Over My Dead Blog, I came to a part where Winnie asks herself, what book inspired her to really dig into reading and make it a priority. 

So I asked myself the same question  

When I was in fourth grade, my jam was Encyclopedia Brown and his five minute mysteries.

Then, as a young adult my inspiration to dig into a good book was a Harlequin Intrigue by Debra Webb, who had a good amnesia story of suspense. Romantic suspense btw is still my guilty pleasure read. 

As I moved intomy mid forties, I became a cozy mystery maven and that genre continues to still fascinate me. I started reviewing books on NetGalley just for fun in 2014 and found great authors like Julie Mulhern, Lynn Cahoon, Gretchen Archer, Susan Boyer and Alex Erickson  it was just like the world opened up for me. These were my people, and they still are today  this cozy mystery genre never gets old, love it  

So, tell me, what sort of book inspired you to read?

What I’m Reading - March 10th

 Yesterday I finished three books I had gotten a good start on in week’s past. Now I am on to a few more

I read a bit on The Lighthouse on Plum Island which is just starting to find its legs. I DNFed a book (did not finish) called The ARC Files because it just wasn’t my speed. I don’t ever plan to keep reading a book if I am truly not getting any enjoyment out of it. 

Now I’m onto Pumpkin Spice Spice Baby which is toted as a hockey romance by Kerry Evelyn. Tasha is a cheerleading coach and part time barista whose cheer rival Monty is now her co-coach when her old one bailed on her. Then to make matters worse he needs to live with her while his house gets remodeled to be up to code for his Nana BooBoo to live with him after her stroke. This is proving to be one of those waiting for the car crash sorta stories because you can just see it coming. 

The next book I dug into upon awakening was Poppy Harmon Investigates by Lee Hollis. Lee never lets me down in the story department. Just a good storytelling egg right there. 

Poppy is left penniless after her hubby Chester dies with a ton of debt. She is one of those who can notice the details in others lives but is clueless in noticing her own. She is now on the hunt for a new job. Since she used to play the secretary to a PI on tv, that seems like the next best option, right? Why not. It’s pretty good so far. I had read a book in this series before but she seemed to have found her passion for investigating by then. This is book one in the series so dumb blonde is how I’m seeing her. Think Farrah Faucet in Charlie’s Angels and you might get a god idea of who Poppy is in book one. Kinda ditzy. 

On my radar is The Haunted Harrington Murders by Capri Winslow. It’s a cover buy. I’ll probably check it out based on the cover and title alone. Could be a future mood read. 

I am also reading two art books which are inspiring me: Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon and Find Your Artistic Voice by Lisa Congdon.  

That’s where I am on my current book journey. What books are just your jam right now?

 

The Sleuther’s Guide to 
Resurrecting a Dead Blog

Greetings, fellow bookish detectives! If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your long-abandoned blog like a cold case gone unsolved, wondering how to bring it back to life, you’re not alone. Life happens, reading slumps creep in, and before you know it, your once-thriving book blog starts collecting dust like an old mystery novel on the shelf.

But fear not! Just like any good detective, we’re here to reopen the case, dust off the clues, and bring Your Reading Sleuth back from the blogging beyond. Here’s your step-by-step guide to resurrecting your dead blog—Sleuth-style!

Step 1: Open the Case File (Assess the Scene)

Before diving back in, take a moment to investigate:

• What worked before? Look at your old posts and see which ones got engagement or sparked joy.
• What needs to change? Maybe your focus has shifted, or your posting schedule was too ambitious before.
• What’s outdated? Check for broken links, missing images, or book reviews that might need an update.

This is your chance to reinvent your blog into something that truly fits where you are now as a reader and reviewer.

Step 2: Dust Off the Evidence (Update & Refresh)

Think of this as giving your blog a fresh coat of paint and a stylish new detective hat.

• Update your “About” page—tell your readers (new and old) what to expect from your revived blog.
• Revamp your blog design—a fresh header, a new theme, or a pop of color can make a world of difference.
• Consider a new tagline—something that reflects your bookish identity (e.g., Investigating Books One Mystery at a Time).

Step 3: Follow the Clues (Create a Game Plan)

Now that your blog is refreshed, let’s create a plan that works for you:

• Start with a “comeback” post—think of it as your first clue in the case. You can title it something fun like The Case of the Missing Blogger: A Sleuth Returns!
• Decide on a posting schedule—whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, consistency is key.
• Batch your content—writing a few posts ahead of time can help prevent burnout.

Step 4: Gather Your Sleuthing Crew (Engage with the Book Community)

No detective works alone! Here’s how to get back into the book blogging world:

• Announce your return on social media—a simple post like Your Reading Sleuth is back on the case! can grab attention.
• Reconnect with other book bloggers—comment on posts, share reviews, and interact with the community.
• Join reading challenges or blog tours—a great way to stay engaged and discover new books.

Step 5: Collect the Evidence (Track Your Progress)

Like any good investigator, keeping track of your case notes is essential:

• Use a planner or digital tracker to jot down blog ideas and track engagement.
• Check analytics (if you use them) to see what posts resonate with readers.
• Adjust as needed—if a certain type of content isn’t working, pivot to something new!

Step 6: Solve the Case (Have Fun!)

The most important part? Enjoy the process! If blogging starts to feel like a chore, mix things up. Maybe start a themed review series (Murderous Mondays? Cozy Corner Chats?). Engage with your audience in new ways, like bookish Q&As or interactive polls.

Most of all, remember: your blog doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be yours. So go forth, fellow sleuth, and bring Your Reading Sleuth back to life!

Are you resurrecting a book blog? Drop a comment below and share your own sleuthing strategies!

Catch Me If You Candy by Ellie Alexander

 

Catch Me If You Candy by Ellie Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fun story to follow set at Halloween time. A guy dressed as a dragon gets offed. Looks like it all might be tied to a couple of dogs getting their 15 minutes of fame. For me the best part is Jules and her staff and all the things Jules makes in the kitchen. Just love these bakeshop mysteries.

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Witch Upon a Star by Angela M. Sanders

 

Witch Upon a Star by Angela M. Sanders
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoy these Witch Way Librarian stories. Josie is hosting her sister, Jean who is in town to take a master class from a life coach named Cookie who is touting her Ready, Set, Go course for way more than Josie's family is comfortable with.. This causes a bit of conflict between the sisters plus their mom is telling Josie not to spill the beans about being a witch to her sister. This mystery was really good and following it was a pleasure. I look forward to the next book in the series.

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