23 September 2026

sabotage games | excerpt + giveaway

justread publicity tours

about the book


Who will pay the ultimate price for Olympic Gold?

LAKE PLACID, N.Y., 1932—Sports journalist Emma Hancock is determined to claim her place in the press box, despite the male colleagues who slam the door in her face. But when a mysterious illness begins systematically sidelining athletes, Emma’s gift for spotting patterns reveals a plot far more sinister than mere competition.

With the Games in his own backyard, Olympic sprinter Ryan Callahan laces up his speed skates to compete in his first winter games. He has no time for distractions—especially not the inconvenience of the beautiful female journalist staying as a guest in his family’s crowded home.

But when the pattern of sabotage deepens, Emma and Ryan must work together to follow the threads before they become the next targets to fall.

La Verità con Integrità. Truth with Integrity. The Legacy of a (Girl) Stunt Reporter.

A 1930s Historical Romantic Mystery

This page-turning novel offers a sweet, slow-burn romance mixed with cozy suspense. Set during the historic III Olympic Winter Games—the first year women’s speed skating was featured—it unfolds against the snow-covered, high-stakes press boxes of Lake Placid, New York, in 1932. Perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and J’nell Ciesielski looking for an inspirational read.

publisher: hearth spot press
release date: september 22, 2026

other books in the series


excerpt

The bench behind Emma erupted. She glanced over to find them all on their feet, a look of pride lighting Ryan’s expression. Digging her toes into the dirt, she took her stance again. The smirk had been wiped off the pitcher’s face. He aimed to strike her out. Would he try to force a swing or would he expect her to keep taking pitches?

As soon as the ball released from his fingers, she watched the lacing. A fastball, likely coming straight down the middle. She let it go just to get a feel for the speed. Thwack. Dead center. A strike.

The guys behind her groaned, their excitement dimming. Emma released a breath. All right. One ball, two strikes. The girls wouldn’t steal with this count. A walk would only load the bases and the lead-off hitter had yet to get a hit. She had to make contact.

Then she heard Ryan’s voice cut through the noise. “Bring her home, Emma!”

Emma’s confidence soared at his encouragement. She adjusted her grip on the bat. The pitcher wound up and threw another fastball in the exact same position as the last.

This time, Emma swung.

The connection was pure. The reverberation vibrated through her arms and down her spine as the ball ricocheted off the wood, sending it screaming through the air. The bat followed through, nearly spinning her with its latent energy.

The men behind her shouted as the ball sailed over the left fielder’s head. Emma dropped the bat and sprinted. Meg came home easily and Dottie rounded second as Emma reached first. Another roar went up from the bench as the ball cleared the fence.

A home run. A three-run home run.

about the author


Danielle Grandinetti writes award-winning 1930s historical romantic mystery and suspense. She is the 2026 Holt Medallion winner and a second-generation Italian-American. Fueled by tea and nature, she crafts hope-filled historical romance novels exploring immigrant heritage, found family, and cozy Midwest traditions. Find her at daniellegrandinetti.com.

giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a paperback copy of Undercover Wish & Eyewitness Sketch!


Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 22, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 29, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.


ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
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