October Newsletter

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It's spooky season! Read below for updates, Halloween-themed spy stories, and news about my book release.

Welcome to the October newsletter!

I’m writing to you from Washington, DC. While I’d like to say I’m on a secret mission, I’m actually only here for a conference (but that could just be my cover story!). The weather is quite warm (it's been in the upper 70s and 80s), and everyone I've met has been equally warm and friendly. I've been able to sneak out here and there to explore DC and I've had some surprises (White House? Small. Lincoln Memorial? Huge.), along with checking out some cool spots that I had never heard of. One spot was the Museum of Illusions. It's a super trippy place where nothing is quite what it seems and what your eyes think they see may not actually reflect reality. Perfect for getting into a spy mindset. It is spooky season here for sure. Spooks is another way to say “spies” so it seems rather appropriate for this time of year. Looking for some spooky spy-related read? Atlas Obscura has article about “The Haunted Houses Designed to Scare Spooks.” These “scare houses” were designed by the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and used to prepare spies for WWII missions. Spies are used to maintaining a cover and wearing a disguise. You know who also tends to be really good at those two things as well? Entertainers! The Washington Post has an article out about the entertainers who have served as spies. Many were familiar names, but I did not know that actor Cary Grant worked for both the FBI and British intelligence. Allegedly. Also happening in October? The release of Secrets, Lies, and Sneaky Spies! I am so excited that this book is finally coming out on October 31! Right now it will be available as an ebook and in paperback, with audiobook coming later. Thank you for all your support. Y’all were so excited, that Secrets, Lies, and Sneaky Spies became a top search term on Amazon before the book was even listed. I’m still kinda in shock over that, so thank you! If I could ask a favor of you—once you’ve had the chance to read it-- I’d appreciate it if you could leave a review online at your favorite site (Amazon, GoodReads, Bookbub, etc.). That will help more people discover the book. Word of mouth is the best recommendation of all! In November’s newsletter, look for a recap of my visit from the International Spy Museum, and maybe a fun recipe or two as we head into the “Seasons of Eatin’!” Until next time, Rayna