Gift yourself with an extended stay at Pines & Quill Dive into the Sean McPherson Novels in your favorite format: Paperback, Ebook, or Audiobook! Whether you love the feel of pages, the convenience of an e-reader, or the immersive experience of listening, I’ve got you covered.

THERE'S A WORD FOR THAT! A lover of forests is called a DENDROPHILE (loving trees and woods), or more specifically, for the whole woodland realm, a NEMOPHILIST—a less common term meaning a haunter or lover of woods, deriving from Greek for “grove” and “love.”

One Scene at a Time: The Art of Steady Progress Consistency is my rhythm. By writing one scene per day, I stay in motion—steadily, sanely, and without the pressure of chasing a word count. It’s progress I can feel, not just measure.

The Sean McPherson novels—razor-sharp thrillers where crime and justice collide.

PI McPherson is challenged by the same forces that fire up his moral compass: injustice, bullying, and inequity. Every time he steps in to right a wrong, he's forced to confront the limits of his control and must find balance between restraint and action, patience and intervention, safety and risk.

SATURDAY BITE-SIZED REVIEW—You’re going to ❤️ this book!

Much like a brilliant, multi-faceted gem tucked into the rugged hemline of the northern Pacific coast, Pines & Quill—a wooded retreat for writers—sits Zen-like overlooking Bellingham Bay, nestled in the historic village of Fairhaven, Washington.

This @lauriebuchanan.bsky.social #quote resonates deeply (hence me posting a few times a year) as it sums up beautifully the importance of indulging in #SelfCare for our #health - #body #mind and #spirit #SelfCareSaturday #SelfCare

I’m currently reading THE BEEKEEPER'S APPRENTICE by Laurie R. King. What book has you hooked on this Friday?

MY READING GOAL FOR 2026 is to finish at least 52 books. Most years, I end up doubling that, but life can toss anything our way, so I like to set a bar that feels both doable and celebratory. If I sail past it, I’ll wave happily on my way by. If I land right on the mark, I’ll be just as delighted.

Five novels. One relentless storm of suspense!

I’m honored to be featured in Bold Journey, an online magazine that spotlights inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs. In the interview, we explore work ethic, the personal qualities that fuel growth, and . . . Read the full article here: boldjourney.com/meet-laurie-...

This little planner punches above its weight. It’s a journal, a notebook, and a daily sidekick—with its own built-in mechanical pencil, a scrappy little survivor who’s seen things and still writes like a champ.

Five books. One series. Pure suspense. The Sean McPherson crime thrillers are truly binge‑worthy.

The biggest surprise in my writing last year was realizing how often my characters seized the reins. The deeper I venture into the Sean McPherson series, the more I find myself following their plotline choices rather than dictating them.

A contemporary crime thriller perfect for Louise Penny and Robert Dugoni fans, Illusionist presents PI McPherson with an impossible dilemma: kill an author at a writing retreat in the Pacific Northwest, or let a college student die.

MY VISION BOARD—pinecones, driftwood, and eucalyptus—nature's treasures. These natural elements aren’t décor; they’re creative catalysts, especially for writing scenes set at Pines & Quill, the heart of the Sean McPherson series. They remind me to stay rooted, observant, and open to possibility.

SATURDAY BITE-SIZED REVIEW—You’re going to ❤️ this book!

New Year, New Possibilities Each day brings possibilities, tucked like treasures waiting to be found. Our mission—should we choose to accept it—is to stay curious, stay open, and discover the magic in our everyday lives.

I’m currently reading THE HUNTER by Tana French. What book has you hooked on this Friday?

I predict that in 2026 I will complete Insidious—book 9 in the Sean McPherson series—by the end of July. Then, in August, I’ll craft the outline and character bible for the next installment, so that by September I can hit the ground running with fresh energy and focus on the next installment.

Each January, a single word—or sometimes a few—steps to the forefront to guide me. They become my focus, my steadfast allies for the year ahead. For 2026, three phrases stepped forward: Quiet Strength Deep Wisdom Wild Serenity

I’m a woman on a mission (details classified). So up to the mountains I go—gathering twigs, acorn caps, and one very smug acorn. Let’s just say I’m stockpiling inspiration . . . squirrel‑style.

One more sleep until we welcome 2026. May the new year bring each of us what we most need—and for all, an abundance of peace and joy.

Step into 2026 with the Sean McPherson crime thriller series—where justice runs deep, danger lurks in the Pacific Northwest shadows, and every page turns with purpose. If you’re ready for suspense, heart, and a protagonist who never backs down, this is your next great read.

This year’s highlights were rooted in myriad simple joys, but one moment soars above the rest: a baby owl landed in our driveway. With its mother watching from a nearby tree, I had the privilege of safeguarding it until it could fly. That rare encounter felt like a gift from nature itself.

I’m tickled pink to be featured on Blue Bookshelf, part of Blue Cottage Agency—the creative masterminds behind the marketing strategies that keep the Sean McPherson crime thriller novels flying off the shelves. Check them out at bluebookshelf.com.

2025 is a 9, marking an ending. I will leave behind things that no longer serve me. 2026 is a 1, symbolizing a new beginning. In the Chinese zodiac, it's the year of the Fire Horse. It brings a sense of wild independence and trailblazing momentum. I plan to embrace this energy and enjoy the ride!

Today, participants in the #WriterFriendsChallenge community pause to recharge our creative spirits and embrace restorative rest. (Pssst, I'm reading "The Silkworm" by Robert Galbraith).

SATURDAY BITE-SIZED REVIEW—You’re going to ❤️ “Famous Last Words” by Gillian McAllister!

I devoured 140 books in 2025. My top picks? Four unforgettable novels and two standout nonfiction gems. But for now, they’re under wraps… Want the full reveal? It’s tucked inside my January newsletter. Until then, consider this your classified teaser. 🔐 Subscribe at lauriebuchanan.substack.com

📚 2025 Year in Books Grateful for the stories, voices, and perspectives that filled my year—140 books, 47,333 pages, and countless moments of reflection, escape, and inspiration. Here's to the power of words and the joy of reading.

When the world turned stormy, I turned inward—and found light. 2025 was proof: creativity doesn’t just survive the darkness. It illuminates it. Here’s to the stories that kept us going—and the ones still waiting to be told.

With heartfelt thanks this holiday season, I’m raising a toast to the behind-the-scenes stars—the brilliant teams who publish (She Writes Press), distribute (Simon & Schuster), and champion (Blue Cottage Agency) my books all year long. Thank you for making the magic happen!

LOSE YOURSELF IN A BOOK Twinkling stars, evergreen trees, and mystery. This season, lose yourself in a book that wraps you in suspense and wonder.

When the world outside is cold, this is the kind of scene that warms you from the inside out. ILLUSIONIST, book five in the Sean McPherson series, pairs perfectly with a steaming mug and a quiet moment by the fire.

Today, members of the #WriterFriendsChallenge Community—and their four-legged muses—are pressing pause to recharge our creative spirits. Henry was the first to conk out on the daybed in my writing studio. And yes, he snores… like a chainsaw wrapped in a blanket.

Step into the shadows with Illusionist—a gripping crime thriller brought vividly to life by Rebecca Stern’s masterful narration. Her voice adds grit, warmth, and pulse-pounding tension to every twist. If you love immersive storytelling, this audiobook is your next obsession.

SATURDAY BITE-SIZED REVIEW—You’re going to ❤️ this book!

I’m currently reading THE TIME HOP COFFEE SHOP by Phaedra Patrick. What book has you hooked on this Friday?

This year, I’ve grown by slowing down—choosing words with care, savoring their rhythm and surprise. My favorite recent discovery? “Duff”—the soft, earthy layer of forest floor. In a single line, it grounded the scene: “His boots whisper against moss and duff.”

Favorite Holiday Tradition Four gnomes reside in our home year-round, tucked away in secret corners, quietly observing. But come the holiday season, they emerge—Thistlewick, Grayson, Oliver, and Rupert—each with their own mischievous charm and twinkle-eyed presence.

Perfect for fans of Louise Penny and Robert Dugoni, Illusionist is a contemporary crime thriller that thrusts PI McPherson into an impossible choice: kill an author at a writing retreat in the Pacific Northwest, or let a college student die.

Favorite Bookish Gifts My favorite bookish treasures to give include a beautifully chosen book, a cozy clip‑on light for late‑night reading, a memorable bookmark, a generously sized ceramic mug for that perfect cuppa, and soft, squishy socks to make every reading moment extra comfortable.

Happy Holidays from the gang at Pines & Quill: Mick and Emma, Niall and Libby, Joe and Marci, Rafferty and Ivy, Hemingway and Maggie. May your home be filled with love and holiday cheer!