Welcome to the blog!

Cozy winter scene with a cup of black coffee, a bowl of strawberries, a stack of books, reading glasses, and a soft blanket, representing a relaxing January reset.

Every January, our family takes a 21-day break from sugar—a ritual that helps us recover from holiday chaos, reset our bodies, and start the year feeling refreshed. Read about why this simple tradition has become one of our favorite ways to begin the year.

Michelle L. Clifton smiling in a festive outfit with a list of December cozy mystery events and giveaways.

Deck the Shelves: Join Me for December Cozy Mystery Events & Giveaways! The holidays are here, and I’m excited to share some

Festive Christmas garland and twinkling lights framing the title “Best Cozy Christmas Reads”

Looking for the best cozy Christmas reads to brighten your holiday season? From small-town mysteries and festive whodunits to heartwarming rom-coms, these cozy, feel-good stories are perfect for curling up with a mug of cocoa and a string of twinkle lights.

Michelle L. Clifton at TropiCon 2025 with fellow authors and readers, signing books and celebrating cozy mysteries and Fluffy Murder stories.

My first book convention was nothing like I expected! From meeting readers who made handmade gifts to coining the term ‘Fluffy Murder,’ TropiCon 2025 was a magical, unforgettable experience."

Cozy coffee cup on a table with notebook and pen, surrounded by festive November decor, listing guest authors for the month.

Get ready for a month of cozy fun! This November, Michelle L. Clifton welcomes a lineup of talented mystery authors sharing guest posts, character spotlights, and festive giveaways. Plus, find out where you can catch Michelle live this month!

Christian Origins of Halloween Halloween graveyard scene with crosses, glowing candles, and smiling pumpkins, reflecting Irish and Catholic traditions of All Hallows’ Eve and Día de los Muertos.

Many call Halloween “the devil’s holiday,” but its true story is far brighter. Explore the Christian origins of Halloween, from All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day. This post uncovers the sacred history behind modern Halloween, highlighting light, hope, and the enduring connection between the living and the dead.

12 Fun Ways to Celebrate September

Looking for fun things to do in September? From apple picking and cozy bonfires to Michaelmas pies and fall book picks, here are 12 creative ways to celebrate the season.

Fall-themed event calendar graphic with “Meet and All Events” text in warm autumn colors featuring author Michelle L. Clifton

Join author Michelle L. Clifton this fall for cozy mystery events, giveaways, and live chats! From book signings to online giveaways and podcasts, don’t miss your chance to connect.

Statue of St. Michael the Archangel holding a sword, representing spiritual warfare and protection.

Did You Know? St. Michael’s Lent began as a personal devotion of St. Francis of Assisi. Starting on August 15 and ending on September 29, St. Francis kept this 40-day season of prayer and fasting in honor of both the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Michael the Archangel. His example inspired early Franciscans to adopt the tradition, though it’s less common today.

Laptop and coffee mug on a desk with the text “How to Write a Guest Post” — author blog graphic

Learn how to write a guest post that connects with readers, builds your author brand, and gets results, even if it’s your first time guest posting.