The Twin Cities Chapter of Sisters in Crime has a new anthology! Minnesota Not So Nice is scheduled for release September 4.
“Cougar Crossing” in the MINNESOTA NOT SO NICE anthology
In my story, “Cougar Crossing,” a grifter who preys on senior citizens picks the wrong victims in the Land 10000 Lakes.
from the foreword by New York Times bestseller, Brian Freeman: “…eighteen of our state’s masters of mystery will do their best to convince you that Minnesota Nice hides a much darker reality…from haunted sanatoriums to secret societies…from cats on the street to cougars in the bedroom…from murderous minnow shots to millions in missing gold… So sit back and savor these twisted tales of mystery and imagination, brought to you with an unmistakably Minnesota flavor. You’ll soon discover why readers can’t get enough of our state’s rich community of writers.”
“Twisted” in DARK SIDE OF THE LOON anthology
My story, “Twisted,” is fictional, but grounded both in a historical event–the Anoka tornado of ’39–and the dark history of the Anoka State Hospital.
from the foreword by award-winning mystery author Ellen Hart: “. . . rest assured, this anthology will make you think, make you laugh, and help you appreciate, once again, the outstanding writers in our community. As one reader to another, enjoy!”
“Release”in the FESTIVAL OF CRIME anthology 
“. . . Among the better stories is Barbara Merritt Deese’s “Release,” set at a mass release of raptors rehabilitated in captivity, during which an abused woman finds her own release. ~ Publisher’s Weekly
from the foreword by Edgar Award winner, David Housewright: “Most of the tales in this surprisingly diverse collection are about bad girls–cool, cunning, courageous, caring, sentimental, sly, savage, sexy, wicked and eye-poppingly bad girls. Story after story is a revelation, filled with devious characters, perfect twists, and writing that’s sure to rough you up a little.”