Hidden Treasure: The Anatomy of Writing Antiques-Themed Mysteries
By Jane K. Cleland
December 4, 2020BONUS: Log-in and leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a copy of Hidden Treasure!
As with all the Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries, Hidden Treasure, the thirteenth entry in the series, uses genuine antiques to tell a fictional story. The questions that surround antiques are fraught with mysteries. Who designed it? Why? What was going on in their world that made this artifact appropriate or desired? Who produced it? Who bought it? Who loves it? Who resents it? Who stole it? Who killed for it? The antiques I write about are real—actual people designed, created, fabricated, manufactured, or crafted these objects, and real people used or cherished them. But the stories I weave around them are inventions—my inventions. Which is to say, I use facts to write fiction.
No surprise, the more intriguing the antiques, the more compelling the mystery, and this time around, I’ve found some doozies. Here are the antiques that lead to murder in Hidden Treasure:
- In ancient Egypt, the cat was the sacred animal of the goddess Bastet, a great and benevolent goddess. In her honor, mummified cats, sometimes in impressive bronze, silver, and gold presentation boxes ornamented with precious jewels, were left at her temples. The cat statues were magnificently crafted, slender, graceful, and dignified, with finely modeled heads, rounded eyes, and erect ears. Often, they wore gold jewelry, earrings, or nose rings.
- Nineteenth-century wood and tin dome-top steamer trunks were huge, often four feet long and nearly as high. They included a lift-out tray and between two and five shelves that could be positioned as desired, each one resting on narrow wooden ridges.
- The oldest known book was found more than 70 years ago in a tomb uncovered during digging for a canal along the Strouma River in south-western Bulgaria. The book was produced somewhere around 3,000 years ago. It includes six gold “pages” held together with golden rings, and is illustrated with various soldiers, a mermaid, and a harp. It can be seen, by the way, at the National History Museum in Sofia.
Unless, of course, they’re counterfeits. That’s where Josie comes in.
Writing Hidden Treasure required that I determine the truth about the antiques themselves, relevant historical and current events, and difficult relationships. All three components matter, but as with most of life, it is the relationships that matter most: the misunderstandings, the love that turns to hate; the lust that fades to nothing; the revenge planned because of perceived slights; the greed; and the debilitating fear of reprisal or exposure. Hidden Treasure includes multiple mysteries involving conflicts that chafe and fester and grow until someone is driven to kill. These mysteries are layered onto known elements.
All the Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries take place in Rocky Point, a charming seaside town on the rugged New Hampshire coast. There’s an ensemble cast, people who have their own lives and joys and dilemmas. You’ll get to spend time with Josie’s staff: Gretchen, Fred, Eric, Sasha, and Cara; her friend, Zoe; the reporter for the local paper, The Seacoast Star, Wes Smith, who has the journalistic habits of a yellow jacket; and two cats, Hank and Angela. You also get to meet new people, people who would be our friends if they were real. You’ll meet Lainey, a young and beautiful receptionist, who dreams of becoming an actress; Tom, a handyman, and Julie, a nursing student, a couple who help Josie get her new house in order; Stacy, a stylish entrepreneur; Doug, a single father all at sea; and Maudie, a woman of a certain age, who decides to embark on a new career.
Will you be able to figure out who is the killer? I hope not. If you could, I would not be my mother’s daughter. My mother once told me that if people have a good enough reason to lie, they tend to be very good at it. And that the people to be most worried about are the people you trust the most—they’re the only ones who can get close enough to do much damage. With a mother like that, are you surprised I write murder mysteries?
As to the anatomy of writing Hidden Treasure: the antiques are in place. I know the setting and the people, their issues laden with desire, danger, and dread. Now it’s up to Josie to use her knowledge of antiques to solve the crimes.
Hidden Treasure tells the story of dreams, desperation, and second chances. I hope you enjoy it.
*author photo courtesy of Marci Gleason
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About Hidden Treasure by Jane K. Cleland:
When antiques expert Josie Prescott finds a mysterious trunk, no one thinks it could lead to murder. Josie, the owner of Prescott’s Antiques & Auctions, and her new husband, Ty, have finally found their dream home, a Victorian beauty on the beach known in the town of Rocky Point as the “Gingerbread House.” It was recently vacated by Maudie Wilson, an aging widow, whose concerned nieces have moved her into a nearby assisted living facility. Josie befriends Maudie, who seems surprisingly sharp, considering her family’s doubts about her soundness of mind.
As Josie and Ty joyfully begin renovations on the Gingerbread House, the nieces report that Maudie, in her forgetfulness, may have left behind an old trunk, which she’s desperate to get back. Sure enough, Josie finds the trunk inside a hidden compartment, and within it a jewel-encrusted box holding a sculpture of a cat. Josie can understand the sense of urgency about getting the objects back—they look valuable, and not just in the sentimental sense.
But when Josie goes to return the box to Maudie, the woman has vanished. And on the floor of her empty apartment lies a corpse, a woman bludgeoned to death. Sick with worry for Maudie’s safety, Josie begins to piece together the clues to the murder. Everyone around her seems to want to pitch in, from Maudie’s family, to the receptionist at the facility, to the young couple helping Josie with her renovations, but with the killer so close to home, Josie has to be on her guard.
Comments
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I only wish Jane could write faster! It’s hard to wait to see what Josie does next!
That is so sweet, Teri! Thank you.
rcsandel@yahoo.com
I really enjoy these mysteries and Jane K. Cleland has a unique writing style which keeps one wanting to keep turning the pages till the end. I would love to have a book for review. I have put this on my TBR at the library and at this time No.25 for an ebook version.
It sounds like a book that would keep your attention.
Sounds fun!
I would love this introduction into Jane’s books. Wish to win
I love everything cats so along with all treasures it’s fun to read about them.
Antiques and Mysteries what could be better!
I have read al of the Josie Prescott books and always wait impatiently for each new release. I am looking forward to reading Hidden Treasure and learning about Egyptian cats.
This looks like a fun book. I can’t wait to read it!
Charmae1143@yahoo.com
I learn so much from Jane’s books! Love them!
What a lovely comment, “khcurran.” I love learning new things in the books I read, too!
Outstanding!
Sounds like an intriguing mystery. I’d love to win a copy!
I so enjoy the characters and the wisdom scattered through Jane Cleland’s books
Love your books! Also, and I may have told you this, because of the Josie Prescott books, I finally can tell the difference between New Hampshire and Vermont on the map! Those two states are the only ones I always confused. These, and along with the New Hampshire episodes of North Woods Law on Animal Planet, I know that New Hampshire has an Atlantic coastline! I also like how Josie has not become jaded or blase about finding bodies. (sorry about no accent on the e.)
That’s so funny, Becky! NH has 18 miles of coastline, the smallest amount of any state.
I imagine you have some fun researching these antiques. We recently turned my sister’s antique gold pocket watch, a gift from her husband, over to an auction house. They estimated its value at around $1,000, although it did not bring in nearly that much in the online auction. But it was interesting to wander around the auction warehouse and see the many times on display–I was most intrigued by a large case of hand guns that featured a Civil War pistol in the center. Such a difference! One nice feature of well-written cozies is what you learn about craft or some other aspect of life that is introduced over time and lets one explore with leisure and pleasure.
I enjoy Jane’s writing webinars.
I am looking forward to my return to Rocky Point! Can’t wait to learn more from Josie as she brings order to our world.
I am excited about the prospect of winning a copy of Jane’s newest book, Hidden Treasure. I’ve read the first two chapters made available on another site and that was enough to get me hooked. While I’m new to Jane’s Josie series, I’ve had the privilege to sit in on several of her free Writing Webinars and I’ve found each of them very helpful. Josie and her story have been tempting me ever since I attended my first webinar with Jane and heard her describe the series. It brought to mind one of my favorite movies, The Red Violin, and one of my favorite British TV shows, Lovejoy, about a dodgy, but lovable, antiques dealer. I look forward to winning Hidden Treasures. If I’m not the winner, I’ll just add it to my Christmas list! Happy Holidays to Jane and everyone at Criminal Elements!
P.S. My mother had a bronze Egyptian cat. It was she who turned me on to The Red Violin and my dad was responsible for turning me into a Lovejoy fan! thanks Mom and Dad.
Have enjoyed this series since the very first book. Love learning about the sntiques–and by now the characters feel like old friends.
Beth, that’s lovely! Thank you for letting me know. The characters feel like old friends to me, too!
I’ve already ordered Hidden Treasures, so I’m hoping I win a copy to give to my best reading buddy. I know she would enjoy it just as much as I will.
I too like to wander around the auction house to see all of the unique items. I always marvel at the imagination and skill of the craftsman. And, especially fun is finding items that none of us can identify – some of the guesses are hilarious !
Exciting premise and a great writer – looking forward to reading Hidden Treasures!
Hidden Treasures sounds great. Have enjoyed your classes recently Jane, and look forward to reading the book.
makes these kind of books fun to read, mysteries are always fun. looking forward to reading this book
I’m so happy to find Jane Cleland again. I read some of the earlier stories and then didn’t see any for a long time. Hooray! Can’t wait to read this one
Cynthia, thank you for coming back to Rocky Point! Can you believe this Josie #13?!!!
I’m on my library’s wait list for the book – love the series!
Your books are always such a treat to read! Thank you for many hours of joy!
Sounds fascinating! Can’t wait to read it.
Many congratulations on the release of your new book! Just the type of read we all could use right now…;)
Wishing you a lovely (and very safe) holiday season!
I have read some other books in this series and enjoyed them. Would love to win this one.
Wow!! This would be pure Awesome Sauce!!
I love the crimes, characters and treasures in all of Cleland’s books. I’ve read themall.
This sounds like a winner of a book!!
I have never read her books and would love to start. All of the comments have made me want to start this series. It would be great to win this book to get started.
This book sounds amazing! Thanks for the recommendation!
Can’t wait to read this book. Sounds very intriguing and suspenseful. A great way to entertain oneself while staying at home.
I love mysteries and always looking for new artists. This sounds intriguing and would love to read it!
Sounds like a great read. Love the cover.
I love old things. I once had a goat named Lady Bastet….. this sounds like a book I would enjoy. Look forward to reading it!
I can’t wait to read this!
I’m new to these stories. After reading about how you write them and weave in fascinating real antiques, I’m intrigued and think I would enjoy reading them.
I would never figure out the killer, but the setting and details sound like great fun!
This is one of my mother’s favorite authors. I want to win my mom a copy!
Allison, you’re so kind! Please give your mom my warm regards. Please tell her I lover her daughter’s books!
This looks like the best yet in Josie’s series. Being interested in Egyptology, I find this extremely appealing and I can’t wait to read it.
Congratulations on the release of your book. can’t wait to read it.
Looks like a fun series to start…
This book sounds great, I love books that have history and mystery intertwined. I would love to win this book!!
Haven’t read the book but love a good mystery. Will look for this series and try.
Series is new to me. Love mysteries & antiques so looking forward to reading these books.
I would love to win. Have not read anything by this author yet, and I’m always looking for new finds!
I stumble upon the Josie Prescott mysteries at a Friends of the Library sale and have scoured various websites and used bookstores to catch-up on the whole series. And now to learn there’s a new book AND it features Egyptian antiquities? Be still my bookish heart! I’d love a chance to win the newest Jane Cleland mystery!
Laura, excellent! I love “my bookish heart”!
Always a good read, and just what I could use right now. Thanks
Would love to read this! Antiques and a mystery – great combo!
This is going to be a welcome addition to my library and my Goodreads review shelf
This is lovely hope I win
Would love to read this book!
Hidden Treasure sounds like a real fun series with antiques as the theme throughout thr series. I really can’t wait tp start exploring antiques, murder and of course…mayhem!
scoster50@gmail.com
I’d love to win.
Books have always been magical and every book is a lesson.
looks like fun
I love mysteries and would like to know more about antiques
Connie, this is the series for you! Every book includes two or more antiques.
I enjoy Jane Cleland’s mysteries and I would love to win this one.
Who is the artist of the book cover? very nice.
Thank you, April! The St. Martin’s Minotaur team (my publisher) responsible for the cover art includes the artist, Mary Ann Lasher, and the designer, David Rotstein.
Looking forward to reading this. Thx for the chance!!
This looks like it would be a good introduction to the series and the author.
Love the stories about your mom! Thanks for the chance to win.
Thank you so much! My mom was an inspiration, that’s for sure.
The coolest thing about antique related mysteries is that the antiquities themselves are also mysterious. That always adds another layer of fun for me. Thanks for the chance to win a copy.
Mysteries are always a good read and finding antiques can be quite the adventure ✅👍🤞🍀🎄
As a member of the FB group Old Things Thrifters and Pickers & a lover of antique finds in the wild, this book sounds perfect for me!
The antiques stories in this series are great, but the characters are even better. Looking forward to reading the new release.
This sounds like another interesting and fun read in the series. Love the mystery of the cat sculpture in the trunk!
This looks like a really fun read! I’d love to curl up and read this with a nice cup of tea. 🙂
I have a house full of antiques including me.
This sounds like a future favorite series to enjoy from the beginning. Im looking forward to tinding them soon.
I love Jane’s books. Returning to her world is like being hugged by your best friend!
Thank you so much for this kind comment. What a lovely analogy–spending time with Josie is like being hugged by your best friend. Josie is very pleased.
Looks like a fun read. I need to catch up on this series.
Jane, your book sounds so intriguing. A good mystery, secrets of antiques, and a read that I regret has to end. I believe that HiddenTreasures will contain all of this. A new author for my book shelf.
Sounds like a great series, thanks for the chance to win!
Would love to win a book. I love mysteries, and this author and series is new to me. Thank you for the chance.
I and the 4 cats I serve are looking forward to reading Hidden Treasure. I need to read the previous books in this series.
Have enjoyed reading Miss Cleland in the past. This looks like another book I would enjoy.
Sounds like a great read! I’d love to win, and start a new series. Adding it to my TBR list.
Great combination of mystery and antique! This will be a great book to read!! Thank you for the chance!!
I would love to win and read this book. Both me and my mother love antiques!!!
There is no mystery of my being an antique. Of many years having been a fan of whodunits and suspense novels, I’m sure your latest will be of a skillfully written intrigue to keep me guessing of the out come.
I JUST JOINED SOME OF THE BOOK SITES, AS IN MY HEART I AM A WRITER. I LIKE THIS WRITERS DESCRIPTION OF HOW SHE GAINS HER INSIGHT TO STORIES. WISHING ALL GOOD LUCK ON BEING A WINNER. THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE PARTICIPATED IN HERJOURNEY DESERVE TO WIN.
I’d love to start a new series! And mysteries are my jam!
This book sounds wonderful! I LOVE a good mystery.
I’m always on the lookout for an interesting mystery. This one sounds like it hits the mark.
Intriguing! Would love to have something new and exciting to look forward to this season.
I am excited to begin reading it in full
Thank you for the interesting information. I look forward to reading this book.
I have always wished for a steamer trunk! And I’m up for any mysteries that refer to ancient Egypt & cats!
Wow!! I haven’t read any of her books. Looks like I am going to have to find some. Thank you
Can’t wait to read it!
You had me at cats.
waltsean@aol.com
I haven’t read any of your books YET, but this one sounds like a good one to start with. Please pick me 🙂
Cleland + Treasures = TBR!
I am not familiar with this series, but now that I know about it, I can guarantee to remedy that asap! I love a good mystery, I love antiquing, & I love my kitty, Girlie.
This is the first book synopsis I have read by Jane Cleland and it was extremely interesting. The antiques, their purpose, the characters involved, and figuring out who committed the crime are right up my alley. Another author for my ever growing list.
Looks like an awesome read!
I am totally intrigued by this book! What’s not to like? Antiques and Mystery!! To be honest I have never read anything by Ms. Cleland but through Criminal Element, I have been introduced to a new favorite author. Then I can go back and read everything else she has written! Looking forward to this book! This is the beginning of a new “friendship”!
Pamela, I love the idea I might be your new favorite author, and I look forward to the beginning of a new friendship. Thank you.
Thanks for showing me how important cats were and that were also sacred. I remember seeing cats prominently on hieroglyphics. I’m impressed with what people keep in trunks like a veritable treasure chest. This looks like a fun read with history sprinkle throughout.
I love you books! Can’t wait to read the new one.
Cannot wait to read this…or only wait until the eagle lands.
candykennedy75@gmail.com
Sounds intriguing. I wish I knew more about antiques. I can’t wait to read this.
I am looking forward to reading! I have not read anything by this author yet.
Sounds great! Would love to win.
Since I am an antique I would love to read the entire series..
I just love mysteries that revolve around antiques, museums, and real events. Sounds like this one checks all the boxes.
This looks like a perfect read for the upcoming Winter days.
As always, you never disappoint.
Theresa, what a lovely note. Thank you.
Very interesting and looking forward to reading more!
Hi Jane! If you get WWWWWAAAY DOWN here I do love a good mystery and I FINALLY have Amazon credit so that I can catch up on yours as I have never read you before, crossing fingers. GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!
Wow I Can’t Believe I Haven’t Heard of You Before. This Story Sounds Really Interesting. I Love a Good Mystery!;>)
Welcome to Rocky Point, New Hampshire, and Josie’s world, Teresa.
I just got the book today, and I plan on keeping it to read around Christmas, since it looks as if we will be alone for the holidays with all the virus going around. I enjoy all your books, and have introduced friends to them. I was a history major and teacher, and always have been fascinated with antiques and the stories behind them. I have a number of them, not all valuable at all, but part of the story of my family, and I treasure them.
Sounds interesting. Count me in!
Sounds fantastic, adding to my TBR list!
New Author and cozy series for me. I’m excited to check out her books. And even more excited to win a copy. 😉 Thanks for the chance.
These mysteries look oh so good. I have not yet read any of her novels but am looking forward to putting her on my list of authors. Thanks for the opportunity to win a book.
I sure do love a good mystery – and antiques – they really keep the mind thinking and bring something new to the present
I am looking forward to reading this.
I’m a fan of mysteries and love reading about antiques. This could be the one I’ve been waiting for. Thank you.
This mystery sounds intriguing and captivating. Thanks for this wonderful feature.
I’ve been a mystery fan since I was about 10. Starting with the Hardy Boys and continuing thru just about every mystery I could get my hands on . Looking forward to seeing how this one ends.. I love being transported in my thoughts to be included in the mystery story. It’s a lot of fun to see if I can solve the mystery
I was not familiar with this series, but it sounds delightful. Also, I will read anything where the protagonist has my granddaughters name. I’m going to look for book 1 right now.
I was not familiar with this series, but I’m going to look for book 1 right now.
Thank you, Barbara! I hope you enjoy CONSIGNED TO DEATH, Josie #1!
I was not familiar with this series, but it sounds interesting. I’m going to look for book 1 right now!
Sorry for posting so much – I kept getting an error message!
You are a new author to me and I can’t wait to read this series.
I like the title of the book and the plot.
The cats of Egypt sound fascinating I love cats too and take care of mine 24/7 and I love mystery books that get you hooked right away thanks for your writing.
This is the first time I’ve heard of the Josie Prescott Mysteries but I’m intrigued. One of my favorite things to do on weekends is discovering new antique stores. I can hours looking. This series sounds so interesting. Thank you for sharing!
I haven’t read any of your books, yet. This sounds like a good book to get started on.
I love mystery books! Thanks for the chance to win!
Love this series! Look forward to all the books!
I will definitely be reading and reviewing this intriguing book. I was excited when I saw that it is based on a mystery and antiques, two of my favorite subjects. Jane is a new to me author, I am ashamed to admit, but something I intend to rectify very soon. It looks like I will be binging your books soon Jane! Happy Holidays
Angela, thank you so much for jumping into Josie’s world!
Can’t wait to read this! I love the series!
Karen, thank you so much! It’s wonderful to “meet” someone who loves spending time with Josie!
These antiques (especially the cat statues) sound fascinating & so does this story.
This is a new series to me but it looks great! Can’t wait to read this!
Sweet love mysteries to read during the cold days of winter
Antiquities and mysteries, my two great interests. Thanks for this opportunity.
I am enthralled with ancient Egypt and Vast statues so looking forward to reading this book
Such an interesting subject and well researched apparently by the author. I’d love to get my hands on the book.
Would love to read!
I would love to win this! Thanks for the opportunity!!
This book sounds so inviting. I can hardly wait to read it. I love antique mysteries.
A new to me author!! Wonderful news.
Joyce, thank you for giving Josie a whirl! I hope you enjoy spending time with her and everyone in the sweet and decent town of Rocky Point, NH.
This book sounds so inviting. I can hardly wait to read it. I love antique mysteries.
I would love to win
I feel as though I have missed great whodunnits by an author who puts a unique antique spin on her stories!
I have never read any of this author’s work. Looking forward to reading Hidden Treasure.
interesting topic
I am an admirer of true antiques and I enjoy reading mysteries! Her book is the perfect combination for me!
Many thanks, Cindi
Thank you for the potential opportunity to win this fantastic book. I love cats and antiques both!
I never read any of your books, sure sounds like I’m missing out on some real fun….
This series appears to have all the elements that I love in a good book!
I haven’t read any books in the series yet, but this one sounds great! Definitely putting them on my “to read” list.
How have I not found this series before?! Sounds great!
I need a mystery! Yes!
Looks like fun book to ready at these trying times. Stay safe everyone.
Ready through all the comments and description of the books makes me wonder why I haven’t read more of the author’s books! I hope to start with this one❣️
Josie # 13? Cats of Antiquity ? Wow. My superstitious self can hardly wait.
My go-to books are always mysteries. I cannot wait to read this latest Jane K. Cleland novel.
My go-to reading is always a mystery. I cannot wait to read the latest Jane K. Cleland novel.
I’ve just stumbled upon you, and I think your idea of using antiques is brilliant! My husband and I love to shop in antique stores. I would love to read your new book. Thank you for the chance!
This book sounds intriguing. Should be an exciting and educational mystery read.
This book sunds intriguing. Should be and exciting and eduacatonal mystery read.
Read the excerpts and now I really am intrigued. I wonder if the killer is Maudie, you mentioned something about it being someone that one trust the most that can do the most damage. Oh well, I better not get ahead of Josie. Can’t wait to read this book!
I am so excited! I have found a new series to read while I pedal on a stationary book during covid shut down.
I love your books and I just got another friend hooked on them.
Another intriguing mystery to get wrapped up in, under the Christmas tree.
With the number of cozy series I dip into, I could not tell you if I’ve read another book in this series, unless I’m actually holding the book. The background sounds familiar. I like looking at old things and learning about them. I wouldn’t mind reading this mystery.
I love mysteries that are historical or that have a historical twist. I would find this book engrossing.
I love mysteries that are historical or that have a historical twist. I would find this book engrossing.
Such a great series! I love antiques so that just adds to the fun!
Looking forward to your next book. Always an enjoyable read. I am getting addicted, need a fix, write more please.
Thank you, Sandy! I hope you enjoy HIDDEN TREASURE, that it satiates your craving. 🙂
Awesome giveaway!
Antiques, mysterious trunk, and a murder would definitely cook up a delicious thriller!
Thanks to you I now have some more books to add to my “To Read” list. And the quick bread recipe sounds delicious – I will try that!
Without the story to go with it, an antique is just someone else’s stuff. For me, the value is its history. Add in a small, seaside town and I’m all in.
Debi, I love your observation that without the story, “… the antique is just someone else’s stuff.” That’s so true. Josie agrees, too. I hope you enjoy spending time with her in Rocky Point, NH.
This author is new to me. I love antiques and the Egyptian cat on the cover. Looks like I have found a new author to follow.
I love mysteries and I love antiques. This series combines 2 of my favorites into awesomeness. I really want this new book.
Hoping for a win – always looking for new to me authors!
I am so looking forward to reading this!
I’m intrigued by the whole antique aspect!
This one of my favorite series. I’ve read every one of them and can’t wait for this one.
Reilly, thank you so much! I’m thrilled you enjoy spending time with Josie.
Love mysteries and I can’t wait to read this!
I love the person who does the illustration for your books. I just found you (the cover attracted me…I love cats). Haven’t had the pleasure of reading yet. 🤞hope to win.
Sounds like it needs to go on my TBR list.
This is so exciting! I have just discovered this amazing book – and now I find out there is a series? Wonderful!
Theresa, I hope you enjoy meeting and getting to know Josie!
This looks like a great book!
I just discovered these books and loving them.
Hope I win …so I read more lol
I have been reading Jane’s books for quite a while and have enjoyed all of them. I’m looking forward to the new book.
interesting info
This series is new to me! I would love to win and read/review this book!
Love how Jane always weaves antiques and facts into her stories.
I would love this!
Adding to my TBR pile!
Sounds perfect for leisure reading!
This is a new series to me, but I like the synopsis! It would be great to start over the Christmas break.
Awesome! Thank you so much for the chance.
Looking forward to reading this. Thanks for chance to win
Looks good! Thanks for the opportunity to win this title!
Have not read your books, but would love to read this one sounds very interesting. thanks for the opportunity to win.
Would love to win!
I love this series and always look forward to the latest adventure. I now have my 96-year-old mother hooked on the series as well.
Sounds intriguing! I’d love to read it!
Love antiques and especially mysteries about them!
Love this author and look forward to reading this book.
I loved her last book, can’t wait to read this one.
Always a fun read!
The story sounds very interesting, and I thank you for the information on the Etruscan gold book, which I found fascinating!
So looking forward to this one!
I am in need of something new to dive into – this looks like it will fit the bill. From the comments posted, it appears to be a series. Can this be read as a stand alone or is it best to start at beginning?
Thank you.
Thanks for asking! I write each Josie story, including this one, HIDDEN TREASURE, as a stand-alone, so you can jump in wherever you find yourself!
This sounds so interesting1
This is the first time I’ve heard about this series; it sounds like something I would enjoy reading!
What a fun read!
I haven’t read any of your mysteries, but now am looking forward to reading them!
this looks like the perfect holiday book to enjoy and share.
Thank you, Linda! Also, take a look at ORNAMENTS OF DEATH, a Christmas mystery. Christmas in Rocky Point, NH is very special.
This book sounds wonderful. I love that you thoroughly research the antiques. As an antique lover, and a lover of mysteries, I would love to win a copy of this. In any case, I’m thrilled to have discovered your books!
This book sounds like it will be great to read!
I am looking forward to reading this book. I love antiques, and always enjoy the history/story of the object.
A new to me author that I will have to try!!
Love the Egyptian pieces and information.
I got a lot of good and interesting information from this e-mail.
I love antiques and have a lot of furniture and keep sakes from my grandparents. I haven’t read any of Jane’s books but they are now on my list.
Sounds like a great story!
I have enjoyed all of these books. I love exploring new topics whether in books or in museums.
Thank you, Rosemary! I love learning new things in mysteries!
Thanks for this opportunity!
This sounds like a mystery I would love to read
Haven’t read this author but story sounds intriguing.
It’s always a treat to find one of these books that I haven’t read.
I have never read a book by this author, but it sounds amazing. I would love the opportunity to read a new author!
What a great idea for a series! Love it, can’t wait to readthis series.
I love books that deal with ancient Egypt. I have been a researcher of the culture for close to 30 years.
I love the Josie Prescott books and would love to win this one!
I have collected antiques and researched them for many years and enjoy well-written mysteries. I have never read any of yours. I have now added HIDDEN TREASURES and your other mysteries to my TBR list.
I am so looking forward to reading this one. I enjoyed this article and the interview I just watched on Facebook Live. Jane is a real treasure.
Reading is my favorite pastime. I would like to read this book..
Winter is closing in and I need a good book to read and take me away. This sounds perfect.
The book has it all for a winter read by the fire with hot tea!
wow I cant wait to read hidden treasures it looks like a great book ! Thanks happy holidays !!
It sounds like a really interesting book. Thank you for sharing.
Adding to my TBR list!
Sounds fascinating. Thanks for the chance.
Wow, a new author to me & antiquities too 8D I love antiquing & mysteries. I’ve gotta get this book!
I like this series. Trying to read it in sequence and believe I am up to this book. Good info about antiques and interesting characters…
I love the history behind antiques. It makes for a very good mystery. Can’t wait to read it.
Love the blend of mystery and antiques! Looking forward to another great read of characters and a town I’ve grown to love. My sinful escape – especially for this year!
Sounds like a winner.
I am new to this author, but I am really excited to find someone who has exciting stories to write.
I have read every one in this series and cannot wait for the latest.
Oh my, this looks good! Can’t wait!
I cannot wait to read the latest Josie mystery.
I love this update folks! This is exactly what I needed.
This novel sounds fascinating! I would love the chance to read and write about this book.
I would absolutely LOVE to read this fantastic novel!