(NewsUSA) - The winter holidays are here, and whether you are hosting a large crowd or intimate group of family and friends, you can up your holiday bar game without much effort.

When planning your holiday party, don’t be afraid to get creative with food and drinks based on your theme.  Going snowman? Try snowman cookies, or go beyond to a snowman-shaped cheese ball. Keep it simple, or make it sophisticated. 

Finally, fill your guests with cheer and serve up Seagram’s Escapes Glow in the Snow Spritz, made special with the sweet and tangy flavor of Seagram’s Escapes Jamaican Me Glow.

This fizzy and festive drink lends just the right touch to any holiday gathering. The berry ice cubes can be prepared well in advance, so when party time comes, Seagram’s Escapes and a few other simple ingredients do the rest of the work.

2 cans Seagram’s Escapes Jamaican Me Glow

1 750-ml bottle of prosecco

2 cups cranberry juice cocktail

1 cup club soda

1 sliced lemon

½ cup raspberries

½ cup blackberries

Mint for garnish

For the ice:

½ cup each raspberries and blackberries, additional mint leaves

Here’s how to make it.

Prepare Ice. Equally divide raspberries, blackberries, and mint into each section of an ice cube mold. Aim for 6-8 average cubes for a punch bowl. Fill mold with water and freeze for 6 hours or until solid.

In a punch bowl, combine the ice cubes with Jamaican Me Glow, cranberry juice, club soda, lemon and additional berries. Stir to combine.

Prepare wine glasses with a sugar rim. Wet the rims with citrus juice, then dip in sugar until coated. Divide the drink into glasses and garnish each with a mint spring.

For customized drink options, smart party hosts also stock the bar with ready-to-drink brands such as Seagram’s Escapes in a range of flavors. Invite party goers to select their favorite flavor combinations and experiment. They can concoct a high-octane cocktail by adding vodka, tequila or gin, or opt for an almost “mocktail” by adding seltzer or tonic instead. Offer festive glasses and seasonal garnishes (chocolate, fruit) to add the perfect touch to anyone’s choice.

For more recipes and ideas for year-round entertaining, visit seagramsescapes.com.

(NewsUSA) - Winter holidays are fast approaching, and while you’re busy planning meals, buying gifts and decorating, there’s one more preparation that shouldn’t be overlooked: cleaning your home top to bottom to prepare for the influx of guests. While we tend to focus on the obvious areas – like the kitchen counters and toilets – there are several overlooked spots that are prone to grime, odors and buildup that can make or break your hosting experience.

Luckily, citric acid is here to save the day. Naturally derived, citric acid is a powerhouse cleaner that’s effective and safe when used as instructed, which is why it’s the main grime-fighting ingredient in all of Lemi Shine’s products. It’s also an incredibly versatile cleaner, effective for everything from tough mineral buildup and rust stains to deodorizing your appliances. Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, citric acid is biodegradable and won’t leave behind harmful residues. Here’s how you can use citric acid in five areas you may have missed during your holiday prep.

1. The Garbage Disposal

Hosting a holiday dinner means your garbage disposal will be working overtime with leftovers of all sorts going down the drain. Any food and grime that is left clinging to your disposal can lead to unpleasant odors that linger long after the meal is over.

Citric acid is perfect for eliminating any funky smells in your garbage disposal. It works by breaking down organic matter and dissolving mineral deposits that can cause unwanted buildup. Simply drop Lemi Shine’s Garbage Disposal Cleaner into the drain, let it fizz, and enjoy a fresh, clean sink.

2. The Dishwasher Filter

If your dishwasher filter gets clogged with grease, soap scum, or food particles, your glassware won’t shine like it should, leaving you with dishes that look dull or streaky. No one wants to serve guests with cloudy glasses, especially during the holiday season.

Citric acid is excellent at dissolving mineral deposits and tough buildup that can form in your dishwasher over time. It breaks down hard water stains and limescale, leaving your machine spotless. Using Lemi Shine’s Dishwasher Cleaner ensures that your dishwasher will run smoothly and your dishes will come out sparkling.

3. The Coffee Machine

From morning coffee to evening cocoa, your coffee machine sees a lot of action during the holidays. However, mineral buildup caused by hard water can clog your machine, impacting its performance and negatively affecting the taste of your beverages.

Citric acid easily dissolves mineral deposits, limescale, and rust, ensuring that your machine stays in top shape. Using Lemi Shine’s Coffee Descaler will leave your coffee tasting fresh and smooth, like it should. Plus, it’s safe to use on any type of coffee maker, from drip brewers to single-serve machines, and won’t leave any harmful residues behind. Just make sure to review your machine’s specific instructions prior to use.

4. Bathroom Fixtures

With more guests visiting your home, the bathroom inevitably sees more traffic. Unfortunately, this means water spots, soap scum and rust stains will build up quickly on faucets, mirrors and shower tiles.

You guessed it, citric acid breaks down hard water stains, soap scum and rust. It can easily be applied to faucets, showerheads and mirrors leaving them looking new again without the use of harsh chemicals. Lemi Shine products are septic safe as well, which is key since a backup is the last thing you want when company is visiting.

5. The Washing Machine

'Tis the season for extra laundry – whether it's washing sheets and towels from visiting guests or linens for the dining table working overtime. But if your washing machine hasn’t been cleaned properly, it can develop smells or mildew, leaving your laundry less than fresh.

Citric acid attacks buildup in your washing machine, including soap scum and mineral deposits. By using Lemi Shine’s Washing Machine Cleaner, you can eliminate musty smells and ensure your laundry comes out fresh and clean every time.

This holiday season, go beyond the basics and give your home the deep clean it deserves that’s sure to leave guests impressed. For more tips and tricks, visit LemiShine.com. Happy holidays!

(NewsUSA) - As the holiday season fast approaches, families across the country are already feeling the financial pinch. With gifts, travel, and celebrations adding up, unexpected expenses can be a burden. One such surprise? Auto glass damage from vehicle break-ins. The holidays tend to bring an uptick in car break-ins, leaving drivers facing costly auto glass repairs or replacements just when they can least afford it.

According to recent data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), vehicle break-ins rise during the holiday season, with thieves targeting valuables left in cars while people shop or travel. Whether it's a shattered window or a cracked windshield, these unforeseen costs can quickly disrupt your holiday plans.

Auto Glass Now: Here to Support You This Holiday Season

Auto Glass Now understands the challenges of managing your budget during the holidays. That’s why they are here to help you get back on the road quickly and affordably with high-quality auto glass repair and replacement services. Their nationwide network of shops is ready to handle everything from small chips to large cracks, ensuring your car is safe and secure again—without the financial strain.

But that's not all. They also know that unexpected expenses like auto glass repairs can add to the financial stress many people experience during the holidays. To make services more accessible, Auto Glass Now is proud to offer a Buy Now, Pay Later program through ZIP. This flexible payment option allows customers to split their auto glass repair or replacement costs into four easy installments. Now, you can get the necessary repairs done today, while managing your budget with peace of mind.

What Sets Auto Glass Now Apart?

Fast, reliable service: They offer same-day / next-day appointments, so you don’t have to wait long for the repairs you need.

Quality materials and experienced team: Their highly trained technicians use the highest-quality materials and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the safety of your vehicle.

Flexibility and nationwide coverage: With hundreds of locations across the country, Auto Glass Now is always nearby, offering reliable auto glass services wherever you are. Can’t make it in shop? Auto Glass Now offers mobile service, as well, which is especially helpful if you cannot leave your home. 

They accept all insurance: They’re here to make life simple!  If you decide to make an insurance claim for your auto glass services, they’ll even manage your insurance claim from start to finish. All you need to do is bring your insurance documentation to your appointment and they will take it from there.

“Auto Glass Now is here to ensure that unexpected repairs don’t derail your holiday spirit” said Johnny Dayberry, Vice President of Operations at Auto Glass Now. “We want to ensure everyone is safe during the holiday season. Our network of professional technicians ensures that every job is done right, so you can drive with confidence and have time to focus on what really matters—celebrating the season with loved ones.”

For more information about Auto Glass Now's services or to get a free quote, visit www.autoglssnow.com   or call 1-888-4-FIXGLASS

(NewsUSA) - As the holiday season approaches, the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is dedicated to ensuring that children in need have gifts to open on Christmas morning. This year’s campaign is especially critical, as many families across the Nation continue to face economic challenges and distress.

“The holidays should be a time of joy, but for many families, they are filled with uncertainty and difficult financial decisions,” said LtGen James B. Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every day we hear from parents who, despite their best efforts, can’t afford to provide gifts for their children. With your help, we can make sure every child receives the toys to treasure, and the gift of hope this Christmastime.”

The impact of the Toys for Tots Program is exemplified by stories like that of Heidi, a single mother of three, who faced the tough decision of prioritizing essential bills over holiday gifts. After praying for a sign, she was surprised when volunteers from Toys for Tots arrived at her door, bringing a bike, a tricycle, and crafts for her children.

In the years since that turning point, Heidi has moved forward in life, eventually donating to her local Toys for Tots chapter and later becoming its Coordinator. “I know firsthand how life-changing these toys can be, letting a child know they are not forgotten” she reflected.

The Toys for Tots Program relies on the generosity of individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to fulfill its mission of providing joy to disadvantaged children. Each unwrapped toy collected is more than just a gift; it symbolizes hope and community support for children and families experiencing hardship.

In 2023, Toys for Tots distributed over 25 million toys, books, and other gifts to more than 10 million disadvantaged children. Our goal is to break that record this holiday season and ensure that at least 11 million underprivileged children can celebrate the magic of Christmas with hope and happiness.

LtGen Laster expresses gratitude for the support of communities across the country: “We are thankful for all who contribute to this mission and assist us in reaching children before Christmas Day. Every contribution positively impacts a child's life.”

For more information about the Marine Toys for Tots Program and its ongoing mission, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - Baby Boomers hit peak retirement in 2024, according to the Retirement Income Institute. In the years to come, we will see the remainder of this generation leave the workforce, as more than 4.1 million turn 65 every year between now and 2027. As Baby Boomers retire, new opportunities are emerging for younger generations to step into critical roles.

The number of American jobs in a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field is expected to grow 10.4% between 2023 and 2033, according to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Currently, the country lacks enough skilled workers to fill all those roles – and this gap is likely to persist. The Semiconductor Industry Association projects 1.4 million U.S. STEM jobs will go unfilled – including 67,000 in the semiconductor industry – by 2030.

This is why the U.S. needs to further promote STEM skills at all education levels. Existing evidence shows how urgently these investments are needed. At the moment, only 20% of high school graduates can handle college-level STEM courses, according to the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

STEM Employment Expands Prosperity

Promoting careers in STEM brings new prosperity to under-represented groups.

STEM occupations tend to have higher salaries than the average. In 2023, the median annual wage for all STEM occupations was $101,650, compared to $46,680 for non-STEM jobs, according to BLS.

But it’s important to ensure the benefits of STEM careers are better distributed across the population at large. Between 2011-2021, 65% of those employed in STEM occupations were men and about 35% were women.

Minorities are also underrepresented in STEM fields. African Americans represent 11% of all jobs and 9% of STEM jobs, while Hispanic Americans represent 17% of all jobs and only 8% of STEM jobs, according to PEW Research.

How to Bridge the STEM Skills Gap

The U.S. government understands how critical STEM education is to America’s future and has embarked on several initiatives to promote it. The U.S. National Science Foundation said it would invest $14.5 million as a set of awards to promote STEM education in two-year colleges. And the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 has provisions supporting STEM education in primary and high school. CubeSat and NASA both have STEM programs focused on satellite science, as well.

Alongside the U.S. government’s initiatives, the private sector also plays an important role. For example, Hughes – a wholly owned subsidiary of EchoStar – recently announced a project with the National 4-H Council designed to inspire students to explore STEM subjects.

Through the partnership, Hughesnet and National 4-H are providing STEM Challenge Kits to local 4-H, Boys & Girls Clubs, and YMCA locations in underserved areas. These kits use three hands-on activities to teach kids ranging from 8 to 14 important STEM concepts and problem-solving skills.

By making STEM education a core part of the American curriculum starting at a young age, the U.S. can recapture the lead in innovative technical fields and more broadly spread prosperity across the population.

(NewsUSA) - Scams targeting people age 60 and older resulted in over $3.4 billion in losses in 2023, according to the FBI. Financial scams and fraud often increase during the holidays. There is more online shopping and more fundraising appeals, which means more opportunities for fraud. And older adults may feel lonely which scammers exploit.

The Eldercare Locator can help older adults protect themselves against financial scams. The Eldercare Locator is a national information and referral service that connects older adults with organizations in their communities that can provide support such as nutrition, transportation and in-home services.

Also, older adults and family members can contact the Eldercare Locator if they think they’ve been scammed. Trained staff will connect them with local or national organizations that can help. Call, text or videophone 1-800-677-1116. Chat online with a Referral Specialist at eldercare.acl.gov or send an email to [email protected].

Click here to read the Eldercare Locator’s new fact sheet, Protect Your Wallet: A Guide to Avoiding Financial Scams. It has information on common scams, tips to avoid scams and what to do if you suspect a scam.

The Eldercare Locator is administered by USAging, the national association representing the network of more than 600 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across the country and advocating for the Title VI Native American Aging Programs. AAAs and Title VI programs provide a range of critical services and supports to enable older adults to age with optimal health, independence and dignity at home and in the community.

(NewsUSA) - IU Students Prevail in 2024 CME Group University Trading Challenge

Indiana University secured another win as it's been named CME Group's 21st Annual University Trading Challenge winners! The rest of the top five teams are from outside the United States.

This year’s challenge saw record participation from nearly 570 teams across 180 universities, representing 24 countries. The increased participation points to a continued interest from students to learn the role of derivatives around the world.

The trading challenge brings together graduate and undergraduate students to learn, hands-on, the techniques for trading within global markets such as agriculture, energy, metals, equity indices, interest rates and foreign exchange futures through CQG, a real-time simulated electronic trading platform.

"We are extremely pleased to have had a record number of schools from around the world compete in this year’s University Trading Challenge and congratulate all the winners,” said Anita Liskey, CME Group Senior Managing Director of Global Brand Marketing and Communications. “For more than two decades, CME Group has been introducing new generations to futures markets through this immersive, hands-on and fun trading experience.”

Eligible winners will receive cash prizes. All participants in this year’s Trading Challenge were invited to attend an exclusive one-day, in-person market education event on December 9.

As the world’s leading derivatives marketplace, CME Group provides a wide array of risk management education services, tools and resources for learners of all levels to immerse themselves into the world of derivatives.

CME Group is committed to educating the next generation of finance professionals on the significance of its global derivatives market and risk management. CME Group also partners with other industry organizations to offer education tools such as Futures Fundamentals, a one-stop educational resource for “Futures 101.”

(NewsUSA) - Inner Trek: A Reluctant Pilgrim in the Himalayas by Mohan Ranga Rao

After being threatened by a Bangalore mob boss, Mohan Ranga Rao, an accomplished businessman, an avid traveler, and a generous philanthropist, makes a vow: If he somehow gets out of the situation, he will thank the gods by going on Kailash Mansarova, a holy mountain pilgrimage in Tibet. What starts out as merely a challenging high-altitude trek soon becomes a life-changing adventure.

With a blend of humor, honesty and keen insight, Mohan journeys toward a deeper understanding of the world around him. A memoir of a road less traveled and a true story of self-discovery at 18,000 feet.

“A modern Canterbury Tales, telling of a fascinating real-life adventure,“ says Dr. C. Naganna, University of Mysore.

“A heartwarming read; a spiritual adventure,” says Anuradha Goyal, The Mouse Charmers.

Purchase at https://bit.ly/3CNPzvn.

Tell the Story: A Hollywood Odyssey by Terrell Tannen

As a highly paid screenwriter, Terrell Tannen lived the classic Hollywood lifestyle: the Porsche, oversized house, dinners, and parties. By most measures, he could be called wildly successful. Yet script after script, written for the bona fide elites of the movie business, floundered for all the usual and unusual Hollywood reasons.

Here’s a peek into what it feels like to constantly flirt with fame. At times resembling a darkly comic film, it's a very American tale, illustrative of the driving forces of hope and ambition in a place where these desires burn like an inextinguishable neon sign.

It also reminds us that life has a way of writing its own script. This is the story behind the story on screen — how it happens, and more often does not. A story for cinephiles, film enthusiasts, aspiring artists, romantics, wishers and dreamers. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4eSMtV0.

The HEALing Revolution Diet by Dr. Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.

The definitive truths to living a long and healthy life are clearly explained by a wellness and healing expert in this comprehensive, science-based, easy-to-understand guide, which includes healing and health strategies that you can start today.

Our food system is not the best in the world; it is one of the worst. In the past 70 years, we have gotten food and nutrition completely wrong, resulting in an epidemic of weight gain, insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertension, digestive issues, heart disease, cancer, stroke, dementia, and more.

This book debunks dieting myths and focuses on the most current research on nutrition and diet. It includes answers to frequently asked nutrition and diet questions, expert tips from the best dieticians and nutritionists, and stories from people who have healed themselves through diet. The book also includes quick and easy recipes for healthy meals and snacks. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3U6Yo9A.

Are You Making Love or Just Having Sex? by Elliot D. Cohen Ph.D.

“A practical guide that unveils the profound difference between physical intimacy and deep emotional connection.”

In the act of making love, there is symbolic meaning that is felt through and through the sex act. Unfortunately, many relationships flounder. Just having sex may ease the tension, but it becomes a means, not an end in itself.

This book helps you overcome the obstacles, the unlovable habits that encumber your relationship. It can help to create the harmonic balance between a sex life and other aspects of your personal and interpersonal relationships.

The book introduces a five-step method based on Logic-Based Therapy & Consultation (LBTC), a popular form of evidence-based, philosophical counseling modality. Complete with self-improvement exercises and video lectures, this innovative book shows how you can identify your unlovable ways of relating, counter them with lovable goals, embrace philosophies of love that promote. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4eLxkoP.

(NewsUSA) - Russian Nonsensical by Edward D. Webster

This book weaves a spellbinding embroidery of mystery and intrigue, with threads of betrayal, exotic thefts, international adventure, and the looming specter of war in Ukraine.

Pastor Clem Dudas is a man of exquisite contradictions: a charismatic preacher who features rattlesnakes in his worship, a businessman developing fake AI "political exposés," and a schemer with clandestine Russian connections. Bud Randolpf shares Clem's politics, a quirky disposition of his own, and a far different link to Russia: Bud travels there seeking love.

When Clem’s wife and two favorite snakes go missing, Bud and his detective team take the case. They solve one mystery, only to uncover another far more deadly. Bud’s Russian romance heats up, just as Russia attacks Ukraine. In the end, Russian deceptions, American deep fakes, unorthodox ideas and the gentle love of a good woman turn Bud’s world upside down. Purchase at https://amzn.to/47hABcv.

The Recess Coat by Susan Wyant

The recess coat is big, green, long and puffy. It symbolizes the favorite teacher that wore it.

The Recess Coat, a children’s book for ages 6-9, is a tale about a beloved educator and her endearing qualities of warmth, kindness, sharing, inclusion and many more positive traits.

She sees potential in every child and helps them realize it. Her carefully crafted lesson plans offer knowledge and inspire the love of learning. Be there for her final lesson.

The book captures hearts of children and educates through its storytelling and glossary by introducing new vocabulary. It stands as a tribute to dedicated teachers everywhere while clearly leaving a legacy on a generation of students. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4fy8ZTf.

Villiansac by John Warwick

A supernatural mystery set in a small village in Southwest France, revolving around a 13th-century chateau with a haunting history. Constructed by Count Alphonse de Poitiers, the chateau imprisoned his illegitimate, unstable son, Charles, until his mysterious disappearance. In 1868, another occupant, John Henry Forbes, vanished under similar eerie circumstances.

In 2006, London banker John Mortimer purchases the chateau, but a hidden decree demanding pension payments to local villagers stirs trouble. Mortimer stumbles upon a pub and, inexplicably, time-travels back to 1868, becoming entangled in strange occurrences, hauntings, and deadly secrets.

A group of villagers and a persistent tax officer die in their quest for the truth about the pension payments, while Mortimer is confronted by supernatural forces, including a sinister figure named Charles Snoopchut Sfenalono. The novel weaves together elements of time travel, ghostly phenomena, and suspense in a tale of mystery and intrigue. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4dSes6U.

Temporal Destiny by Robert Schulman

In this thrilling conclusion of Robert Schulman’s science fiction trilogy, readers embark on an adventure reminiscent of Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, and Larry Niven. The story follows paleontologist Jack and his astrophysicist girlfriend Jen, who, alongside their crew, navigate a future Earth ravaged by a pandemic.

After discovering an alien artifact in Wyoming, they learn they were chosen by future inhabitants to solve humanity's crises. Their journey reveals the Balocks, an advanced alien race that has abandoned their domain, leaving behind destructive inorganic beings.

Set a decade after their arrival, the crew faces challenges that ignite a galaxy-wide conflict. As they attempt to save one race while aiding another, they discover the harsh realities of time travel—the universe always collects a toll for disrupting the Temporal Order. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4fH6Vsj.

(NewsUSA) - The Housekeeper’s Secret by Sandra Schnakenberg

For fans of stranger-than-truth stories, Sandy Schnakenburg uncovers rattling and unprecedented revelations in this powerful memoir of love, secrets, and survival.

When Lee Metoyer is hired to be the new housekeeper, she has no idea she’s about to become the anchor to a family in an abusive patriarch's home, setting a mystery in motion that will take decades to uncover. At 72, Lee falls ill and on her deathbed asks Sandy to write her story. The only problem is, Sandy doesn’t know the story.

So Sandy takes an emotional and thrilling journey, unveiling shocking truths not only about her beloved housekeeper but also her own upbringing. She learns that Lee came to her family’s sprawling estate harboring a secret past. For decades, she’s been in hiding. But Sandy’s quest forces her to grapple with her own family history as well, and to confront the effects of the psychological abuse she suffered as a child. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4ewzcRO.

Stealing Time by Tilia Klebenov Jacobs and Norman Birnbach

For fans of Back to the Future, The Time Traveler’s Wife, and Time and Again, here’s a smart, funny caper that will steal your heart.

When there’s no time left, you have to steal it!

New York, 2020. Tori’s world is falling apart. Between the pandemic and her parents’ divorce, what else could go wrong?

Plenty! Like discovering that a jewelry heist 40 years ago sent her grandfather to jail and destroyed her family.

New York, 1980. Bobby’s life is pretty great—until a strange girl shows up in his apartment claiming to be a visitor from the future. Specifically, his future, which apparently stinks. Oh, and did she mention she’s his daughter?

Soon Bobby and Tori have joined forces to save the mystical gemstone at the heart of all their troubles. This time-travel jewelry heist will keep you guessing until the end. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4guShFH.

The Many Mothers of Ivy Puddingstone by Randy Susan Meyers

Seven children. Five mothers. One idyllic commune. What could go wrong?

Annabel Cooper wants to save the world. In 1964 she journeys to Freedom Summer in Mississippi, where the disappearance of her first love ignites a lifelong fight for justice. Years later, she, her husband, and four couples form a Boston political collective where they live together with their children in a rambling Boston house. As the era's social upheaval intensifies, they move their children to a Vermont Eden, where they can remain safe; their parents continue their political work, taking turns traveling to Vermont to care for the children.

But not all danger comes from the outside.

This book delves into the intricate and nuanced dance of familial love and communal ties through the lens of sociopolitical upheaval from the 1960s to the present day, examining which sacrifices are worth the price. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3BANWkr.

The Lafitte Affair by Norman Woolworth

When burglars break into Hope Mausoleum and violate Crypt 1083-A where the remains of the former Girod Street Cemetery are housed, New Orleans property crimes detective Thibodeaux “Bo” Duplessis is confronted with three confounding questions: Who are the burglars? Why did they break into the crypt? What, if anything, did they take?

In need of expertise he does not possess, Bo turns to his childhood friend Bruneau Abellard, a cranky, overweight antiques dealer with exacting epicurean standards and a font of historical knowledge. Together, the friends uncover a secret love affair between a famous antebellum actress, whose remains are contained in the crypt, and the notorious pirate Jean Lafitte. As their investigation deepens, they find themselves confronting two separate yet entwined mysteries 200 years apart. To solve the present-day crime, they come to realize they must first unravel a conundrum from the distant, murky past. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4dFl1J6.