The Sally Witherspoon Mystery Series by Erik S. Meyers

THE SALLY WITHERSPOON MYSTERY SERIES

by Erik S. Meyers

November 11 – December 20, 2024 Virtual Book Tour

April 28 – May 16, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

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DEATH IN THE OZARKS

A cross between Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple and a Cheers bartender, Sally Witherspoon, a 50-something accountant turned biker-bar owner, loves solving puzzles. Up to now, she has focused on helping neighbors and friends find lost jewelry, lost pets, and lost loves.

But when she finds her best friend and business partner, Bill Arnold, dead in a dumpster behind her bar on a Saturday night, she needs all her wits and grit to find out who did it.

And she won’t stop until she does.

Praise for Death in the Ozarks:

“Christie meets Cornwell in this vivid mystery, by Erik Meyers. I found myself investigating the story, lending a hand to Witherspoon but never quite unravelling the threads, and in the end experiencing a satisfying read that provoked everything from anxiety to relief.”
~ Callan J. Mulligan, Bestselling Sci-Fi/Fantasy Author

“Move over, Jessica Fletcher and Agatha Christie. Here comes Sally Witherspoon, a small-town bartender with mad skills as an amateur sleuth. Determined to discover who murdered her best friend and co-owner of Sally’s Smasher. Experienced in solving minor mysteries, the community isn’t surprised when Sally launches herself into the murder investigation, frustrating the local authorities, but they aren’t the only ones. Some secrets should stay secret or should they? Follow Sally and find out.”
~ Wendy Bayne, 5-Star Goodreads Review

“I loved this mystery! Suspenseful and a real page turner. The main character Sally Witherspoon, the owner of a biker bar, is a gutsy, intelligent, likeable woman determined to find out who killed her business partner and this leads the reader on an exciting adventure. Thought I had it figured out but was surprised at the ending. Highly recommend!”
~ Lillian M. Finn, 5-Star Amazon Review

Amazon | Goodreads

MURDER ON THE MISSISSIPPI

Six months after the events in Death in the Ozarks, Sally Witherspoon is trying to put that terrible time behind her. She books a river cruise down the Mississippi to get away and relax.

Unfortunately relaxation is not to be as as she’s called on to get to the bottom of a mysterious death that occurs on board.

A combination of Cheers bartender and Miss Marple, Sally Witherspoon is as determined as ever to solve it.

Praise for Murder On The Mississippi:

“An enjoyable, but deadly cruise down the Mississippi that will keep you in suspense from start to finish! A relaxing trip down the river that turns into a nightmare for main character Sally Witherspoon is a delightful mystery for readers… Lots of twists make for an entertaining read. And like Sally, once it’s over, I’m ready for the next adventure. Looking forward to more in the Sally Witherspoon series!”
~ Ivanka Fear, author of the Blue Water Mysteries and Jake and Mallory Thrillers

Book Details:

Genre: Traditional Mystery, Cozy Mystery
Published by: Level Best Books
Series Links: Amazon | Level Best Books

Read an excerpt from Death in the Ozarks:

Chapter One

Sally Witherspoon dropped onto the sofa in her office with a sigh, the cracked brown leather groaning as she settled herself, and ran her hand through her graying chestnut ponytail. What a night. The fights in the bar on Saturday nights were getting worse. Sally loved her bar, Sally’s Smasher, and her adopted town of Berry Springs, but the violence was getting to her. She had come to live in the small town fifteen years ago.

An old college friend, Bill Arnold, was from there, and he had always urged her to come for a visit. With a population of two thousand, one hotel, two bars, two diners, and a few arts-and-crafts shops, it was very different from her high-powered life in finance in Atlanta, but now it was definitely home.

A home that didn’t include her husband, mind you. They had divorced soon after the trip to Berry Springs. Putting her life’s savings into buying an old run-down bakery—with a lot of financial help from Bill—and turning it into Sally’s Smasher had been quite a gamble, but life here was different.

The thought of living in the beautiful Ozark mountains in Arkansas and still sitting in an office like back in Georgia hadn’t been an option for her, and the bar seemed like the perfect alternative. Running it meant she had more time to explore and hike the local area. Yes, the nights were long, but the town had come to love Sally and her biker bar, and she’d made many friends.

With only two bartenders, Jay and Magda, to help, it took a lot to run the place. Most Saturday shifts were hard slogs, but that night had been an especially long evening, as she had to deal with three bar fights, each uglier than the last. First, her business partner, Bill Arnold, had gotten into a heated argument with his biker club, The Mountaineers, over who would get to ride Bill’s vintage Vincent Rapide next. As it was on display at the bar in a large metal cage, it was often a topic of contention. Bill was always worried it would be stolen, it was worth a lot, or worse, one of his buddies would ruin the perfectly restored and polished leather seat and shining metal.

Then Bethany Wells, the school assistant, had accidentally stumbled into Mayor Jennifer Milkowski on her way to the bathroom. Bethany did love her wine, and there had been a bit of a misunderstanding. Bethany got easily annoyed when she had had too much to drink. Jennifer was not the easiest to get along with, for sure, but she was always watching her image, and being involved in a bar fight would certainly not fit her mayoral brand, and she quickly defused the situation.

The third fight almost resulted in Sally calling the police. Her friend Jeff Bartholomew, a teacher at Clinton High School, was sitting with their local Catholic priest, Father O’Malley, and had become pissed off by the bikers yelling at each other next to their table. Jeff stood up, his fists at the ready. One of The Mountaineers lobbed him in the jaw, and Jeff swung in return. Jeff had had too many beers to be in top form, and his swing missed. As he swiveled around, he fell hard, knocking over a table full of glasses and falling on a metal chair in the process, which his broad six-foot-two frame bent out of shape. If it weren’t for Bill stepping in and throwing Jeff out of the bar at that moment, Sally’s Smasher would have been truly and royally, well, smashed up.

Unfortunately, this was not something completely unusual; the rough-and-ready people living in the remote town rising to conflict more than she’d seen in the city, but the fights that night had been more violent than normal. They’d completely torn up one corner of the place. Her insurance would pay for now, she hoped. She didn’t really have the funds to fix it up herself.

But reviewing the events of the evening wasn’t going to change matters, nor was it helping Sally relax. She pushed herself up from the couch to finish cleaning up and readying the place for the next night. She’d sent Jay and Magda home at half past twelve, not needing their help in finishing off the last of the jobs. Plus, she didn’t want to overwork them. If they quit, she would be up the proverbial creek without a paddle.

Sally went over to her desk to tally up the night’s receipts, making a note of the amount of cash in the drawer and putting all of it in the safe. While the overall accounting at the bar wasn’t as perfect as she wanted it to be—far too much red ink for her finance background’s liking—she always made sure the cash drawer was perfect.

She then headed back out into the bar to put the glasses away she had washed before closing for the night. Pushing all the tables and chairs back in their proper places, Sally made one final sweep of the bar before checking all the windows and doors. Casting her eyes over the decorations around the bar always made her smile. The deer antlers above the door came from one of her hunting trips. Bill’s vintage bike was a real pull. And the red wooden paneling had been specially made by the local lumberyard. She was so proud of what she had accomplished, though it wouldn’t have happened without Bill’s help, and his money.

As she did every night, she went to each window from left to right, making sure the catches were secure. Then she locked the front door. Back in her office, she grabbed her backpack and shut off the lights. Just before leaving through the back door, she set the alarm. The reassuring red light always calmed her nerves. After four break-ins in one month the previous year, she finally broke down and bought an alarm, a huge expense, but so far, worth it.

In the parking lot, she headed to her car, looking forward to falling into bed. She threw her red backpack in the back of her old blue Datsun and started the engine.

Damn, I forgot to put out the trash.

She turned off the car and reluctantly headed back across the parking lot. Looking up, she frowned. Bill’s fiery-red Harley-Davidson motorcycle was still parked in the back of the building near the trash bins. Bill didn’t have a car, so he couldn’t have taken that. And she had definitely checked everywhere inside to make sure no one was passed out in one of the bathroom stalls. Maybe someone had given him a lift home.

Bill was her business partner, but he acted like a very loyal customer most nights, drinking up the Murphy’s stout imported from Ireland for him. She walked over to the motorcycle and was surprised to find the engine warm to the touch. That’s strange, she thought. She glanced around the parking lot and the woods behind for Bill. Though, why would he be waiting outside?

At that point, she was too tired to think about the motorcycle any further. Bill was a big boy, and he’d make his own way home, and she went to get the trash bags. She stomped back inside. Annoyed with herself, she had to switch the alarm off. She’d left the damn things by the door but must have walked straight by them. There were three huge bags, so she would have to make two trips. To make it easier for herself, she moved the bags outside before locking up and turning on the alarm again.

She then grabbed two of the bags and lugged them across the lot. Why hadn’t she put the trash bins closer to the door? This was one of her many to-dos that never reached the top of the priority list. She should get Jay to do it for her next week.

At the dumpster, she opened the lid and threw the bags in without looking, brushing her jeans against some grease on the side. Jeans were pretty much her go-to outfits, or sweatpants at home. Everything else was a waste of money, as it got dirty so easily at the bar. And she didn’t do much beyond hiking, working, sleeping, and eating.

She went back and grabbed the third bag from the door, and returned to the dumpster. Her long night would finally be over. As she opened the lid again, she realized the bags she had just thrown in were too close to the top. The dumpster had been emptied the day before, so what was under the bags? If someone else was dumping their rubbish in her bin, she’d be having words.

Sally fumbled in her pocket for her cell, switched on the flashlight, and peered inside. Waving the flashlight, the light landed on something that was definitely not trash. She brought her hands to her mouth, dropping the trash bag, and screamed.

Staring back at her were the gray, unseeing eyes of Bill Arnold.

***

Author Bio:

Currently in Austria, Erik S. Meyers is an American abroad for years and years who has lived or worked in six countries on three continents, the longest in Germany. He is an award-winning author and communications professional with over twenty-five years of expertise in a variety of corporate roles. Reading and writing are his passions, when he is not hiking one of the amazing trails in Austria or elsewhere.

Catch Up With Erik S. Meyers:
www.ErikMey.com
Medium – @erikmey
Goodreads – @erikmey
Instagram – @erikmeyauthor
Facebook – @ErikSMeyersAuthor

Tour Participant Reviews:

‘A tale of relationships, loyalty, betrayals, and long-held secrets. This was a solid mystery that was entertaining.’
~ bookwormbecky1969 Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘Death in the Ozarks is a fun read. The plot has plenty of twists and turns and will keep you guessing till the last page, and the characters are sympathetically-drawn… I was telling my husband that I had to finish “just one more chapter,” and reading 4 or 5 more instead and staying up past my bedtime to do so.’
~ 5 Minutes for Books Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘Death in the Ozarks is a highly entertaining introduction to the writing of Erik S Meyers and it’s definintely a series to get behind. Loved it!’
~ Ink.Readsalot Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘I enjoyed the small town vibe (coming from a small town myself) of everyone knowing each other and knowing where they stand in the pecking order of small town life. There were also some twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. It was like a roller coaster ride in the dark!’
~ Words by Webb Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘I love a good mystery, and the main character, Sally, the owner of a biker bar, is a gutsy and exciting sleuth. The ending was exciting and unpredictable. The author did a great job developing the story, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.’
~ Books R Us Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘I really enjoyed ‘meeting’ Sally Witherspoon and being introduced to the many characters in this cozy mystery. All of these folks make for some pretty colorful characters that help bring this story to life. I did enjoy Sally’s tale and her sleuthing. It will be interesting to read about her next adventure … see what small-town mysteries she unravels.’
~ Melissa A’s Blog Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘Murders with no obvious connection and questionable motives made for a confounding mystery. With a unique setting and an interesting sleuth/police dynamic DEATH IN THE OZARKS is a solid entry to a new mystery series.’
~ Cozy Up With Kathy Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘Sally Witherspoon is very different from the typical amateur detective you find in most cozy mysteries. She’s older, a bit rough around the edges, worldly, and living life on her own terms. This is a welcome change from the spunky, quirky young women found in many modern mysteries… I’ll be recommending this series for sure.’
~ It’s All About the Book Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘The author creates a great small hometown vibe and introduces readers to a direct and confident new amateur sleuth. The author does a great job developing the town of Berry Springs… The author also does justice to the scenic Ozark setting, and the plethora of bikers typically found enjoying the forested mountain byways.’
~ Guatemala Paula Loves to Read Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘The author wrote an excellent story about a mystery that happened in a small town with a female middle aged character like myself. I loved this book and Sally is a relateable character.’
~ Country Mamas With Kids Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘The small Ozarks town of Berry Springs has a pile of bodies and no suspect in sight. Or maybe too many to choose from. Enter Sally Witherspoon. When I reached the end I realized I’d read the book straight through. It was that fun.’
~ fuonlyknew Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘There is so much to explore in this read that it keeps readers on edge with suspense while every now and then let of a clue slowly. Dear readers pay attention and follow along this is a crime mystery you do not want to pass. Overall, I was thrilled from beginning to end. I was thoroughly entertained and cannot wait to see what the next case that sparks Sally’s interest.’
~ The AR Critique Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘This incredible small-town mystery is packed with danger and surprises. The plot is gripping from start to finish, easy to follow, and unfolds at a well-paced rhythm. Sally is a lovable character—sweet, brave, and clever.’
~ Nana’s Book Reviews Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘This is an enjoyable mystery featuring an engaging amateur sleuth. Meyer’s writing style is easy to follow. There are many surprising revelations along the way as well as times of suspense.’
~ Book Reviews From an Avid Reader Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘This small mountain town has a true sense of community, which made me yearn to live in the mountains, too. With a fast-paced plot and a solid mystery, Death in the Ozarks will keep the reader entertained til the end.’
~ Novels Alive Review of Death in the Ozarks

‘This amateur sleuth mystery is packed with a colorful cast of characters and an unexpectedly clever motive behind the crime. The book is well-written, with an intriguing plot that’s easy to follow. I loved Sally’s determination and the thoughtful way she approached the case… If you’re a fan of mysteries, you won’t want to miss this one!’
~ Nana’s Book Reviews Review of Murder on the Mississippi

‘The strength of this novel comes from the places visited by those on the cruise, such as the Trail of Tears State Park in Missouri. I enjoyed this mystery adventure with Sally, a suitable amateur sleuth.’
~ Book Reviews From an Avid Reader Review of Murder on the Mississippi

‘With a boatload of quirky potential murderers to consider and an interesting travel itinerary besides, readers will be tempted to stay up late turning pages to find out what is going to happen next to those aboard the River Queen. With its likable main character, intriguing cruise theme, and intricate plot, I recommend MURDER ON THE MISSISSIPPI to mystery fans.’
~ Guatemala Paula Loves to Read Review of Murder on the Mississippi

‘What I like about Sally is she has a never give up attitude. This time she has signed herself up for a cruise along the Mississippi river, There are a whole host of entertaining characters who also booked themselves on this cruise. It took some twists and turns and some creative thinking on Sally’s part to figure this mystery out.’
~ Melissa A’s Blog Review of Murder on the Mississippi

‘Murder on the Mississippi is a mystery set on a riverboat with some interesting ports of call. There is a depth to the story with a lot of details… Enjoy the sunshine and see if you can piece together whodunnit.’
~ Novels Alive Review of Murder on the Mississippi

‘The murder was complex, even in its method and the investigation unique. I enjoyed how Sally gathered a team to help her. There were some astonishing twists and surprises… With an unusual set of characters MURDER ON THE MISSISSIPPI touches on societal issues even as it entertains. I look forward to seeing Sally back in the Ozarks, certain that she will soon find a new mystery to solve.’
~ Cozy Up With Kathy Review of Murder on the Mississippi

‘Crime fiction readers will love this as much as I have. The main protagonist, Sally Witherspoon, is pretty much a female version of Sherlock Holmes or better yet a female version of Hercule Poirot. I love how this writer takes readers to new places in each of her novels. Murder, mayhem, chaos, secrets, and plenty of suspects, Murder on the Mississippi is refreshing and fun. Erik S. Meyers writes flawlessly and entertains readers with drama, suspense, and interesting characters.’
~ The AR Critique Review of Murder on the Mississippi

‘I was so caught up in this book. And as the body count rose, so did my anticipation. There were so many suspects and I was clueless on the who and why. Another solid winner in the series. Can’t wait to see what Sally stumbles into next.’
~ fuonlyknew Review of Murder on the Mississippi

Tour Host Info:

Book Formats: ePub, Print, Netgalley
Hosting Options: Review, Interview, Guest Post, Showcase
Giveaway: There will be a tour-wide PICT Giveaway
More: According to the author The Sally Witherspoon Mystery Series does not include: Excessive Strong Language, Graphic Violence, Explicit Sexual Scenes, or Rape. However, readers may encounter content that is considered to be another trigger situation. Generally the content is considered to be: PG content. At this time, PICT staff have not yet read this book and cannot give additional information.