Good morning, readers. There were times I thought this day would never arrive. I’ve wanted to publish a book of short stories for who knows how many years. When I began writing them in the fall of 2021, I expected to publish them in the spring. Then came summer, then fall, and… You get the picture.
The working title of this collection was A Book of Shorts, but I needed something better. A huge thanks to Staci Troilo for brainstorming with me to come up with something that would fit this mixed-genre collection.
When I think of the word, menagerie, a group of animals first comes to mind. Merriam-Webster also defines a menagerie as a varied mixture. Hence the title.
And now, for the cover reveal.
Menagerie is a collection of thirteen short stories. The shortest is around 3000 words, and the longest is around 9000. The genres include mystery and suspense, contemporary/family fiction, and ghost fiction. There is one dual-timeline story. While some are set during the present day, several of the stories take place during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
It’s my hope this collection has a little something for everyone.
Blurb
- Understand a young girl’s confusion when she suspects her brother is hiding a dark secret
- Share the suspense as two partners reunite to solve a thirteen-year-old murder
- Visit a neglected cemetery at dusk where a ghost is said to reside
- Discover the reason for a family’s mysterious disappearance
- Feel the bond between a lonely cowboy and a solitary wolf
- Realize that life in the music world isn’t always what it seems
- Learn the legend of a haunted bridge
- Find out progress isn’t always for the best
- Experience the emotions of two women while their husbands are away at war
- Pay tribute to a fallen hero fifty-one years after his death
- Take a whitewater rafting trip and meet a woman with a mysterious past
- Spend a week away from the everyday pressures of life
- Accept a ride from a friendly truck driver
Release Date and Blog Tour
Because I’m not superstitious, I plan to release this collection of thirteen stories on January 13, 2023. In case you’re wondering that’s on Friday.
I also plan a blog tour of thirteen stops beginning the following Tuesday, January 17, which will continue through February 28.
I already have ten of those slots filled. If you are interested in hosting me for one of the last three posts in late February, just drop an email to joan@joanhall.net. Thanks in advance to anyone who can host.
43 Responses
Unfortunately, I cannot help with your launch at that time, but really wish Menagerie all the best on its journey…
Understandable. Thank you for your kind words, ladies.
Thirteen stories on Friday the 13th, I’d say that’s a perfect release date!
I had hoped to do September 13, but this year wasn’t a good one for me as far as writing. Now that I’m retired, I hope to put out a lot more words in 2023.
I love the title and the cover looks appealing. Good luck with this one.
Thank you so much, Darlene. Sometimes I have a title before I write a book. That wasn’t the case this time.
Congratulations, Joan. I’m looking forward to reading this jewel and to hosting you in January. 🎉🎈🎉
Thank you, Gwen. I appreciate all your support. Look forward to visiting you!
The cover is fantastic! Congratulations, Joan!
Thank you, Jill!
How exciting! Knowing you will succeed beyond your wildest dreams.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Annette.
This is just fabulous! I’m very happy for you and I wish you success!
Thank you so much, Margot!
Congratulations, Joan. I’m already on the list and hope you draw a lot of attention.
Thanks so much, Craig. I look forward to visiting with you.
Congratulations on your upcoming release, Joan! I love the cover.
Thank you so much, Liz!
You’re welcome, Joan.
Thanks for the shout-out, Joan. I think you settled on the perfect title. I love the cover, and I’m looking forward to hosting you. Wishing you all the best!
I like it. I anguished over the title forever. Many times, I have a title before a story. Not the case this time (including several of the individual stories within the book).
Congratulations! This is so exciting! The cover is terrific!
Thank you so much, Kymber.
I love the title, cover, and release date! Looking forward to reading this collection, which sounds awesome. Congratulations on getting it to publishing, Joan! Can’t wait to have you visit my place next year 💕🙂
I look forward to visiting, Harmony!
Joan, love the cover and title. Can’t wait to read the book.
Thanks, Michele. This one has been a long time coming. (Too long!)
A huge congratulations to you, Joan! I love the title, the cover, and the number 13! So excited to get to read this one! Best wishes for a GREAT launch!
Thanks, Jan. I’m looking forward to releasing this one. It’s been a long time coming.
Congratulations, Joan! I’m looking forward to your short stories. Many times I wish I had your tenacity and persistence in my writing, which I have mostly given up, including my blog. I miss it all, but physical and mental changes stand in my way. I’ll continue to follow you and enjoy your successes.
Thank you, Sherrie. I miss your blog but understand that sometimes we have to make changes. You have always been a big encourager to me.
Congrats, Joan! And good luck with your book. You’re always welcome on my blog.
Thank you so much, Judi. I’ll be in touch with you. And you are always welcome here as well.
Thank you.
Congrats to you on the upcoming release, Joan! It’s sounds like an amazing read and I do love short story collections. I’m also a fan of Friday the 13th, so yay for you for ignoring the superstitions! If you still need hosting, I’d love to support.
Thank you so much for the offer, Mar. I’ll contact you about a date in February. I appreciate the support.
Congratulations, Joan. The cover is excellent. Can’t wait to read it.
Thank you so much, John!
😁
I love the cover, Joan, and I am so excited for you to finally release this collection! I can’t wait to snatch up my copy!
Thank you, Mae. This one has been a long time coming. I’ll get glad to get it out there.
Love that cover, Joan! Staci’s helped me more than once with titles – she’s really good with them. Looking forward to reading it!
And she’ll say she’s not good at coming up with titles. 🙂 She’s helped me on more than one occasion. Sometimes, just brainstorming with her helps.