You Can Make Me

Carnival of Mysteries

by R.L. Merrill

Celie Bay Publications LLC

September 13, 2025

Available in: Paperback, e-Book

You Can Make Me
by R.L. Merrill

News Anchor Cooper Harris received a dire warning from a psychic early in his career as an investigative reporter: Your curiosity will lead you to death's doorstep. That prediction came true when he ignored instructions from law enforcement friends, and showed up to a crime scene only to become the latest victim of a serial killer. He was rescued by the man he desperately loves but denies at every turn---Detective Dennis Hamilton---and left with gruesome and debilitating injuries.

Three months later, Denny is at his wit's end. He's done everything in his power to help Cooper heal, but the reporter is obsessed with finding a mythical carnival that is rumored to possess some "woo woo fountain of youth and vitality." Denny desires Cooper just as he is, but the reporter has always gotten by on his looks and investigative skills. Cooper refuses to give up hunting for answers, even if it means making a deal with the very devil responsible for his scars.

With the help of his trusted friends, and two men not of this time, Denny will fight to stop a killer from finishing what he started with Cooper, the man he has come to cherish. Cooper will have to choose between exposing the secrets of the Carnival of Mysteries, and accepting that love is more important than the truth he seeks.

You Can Make Me is the third book R.L. Merrill has contributed to the Carnival of Mysteries shared world. It can be read as a standalone, but readers will more fully enjoy the story after reading You Can Do Magic and You Can Save Me. Each book in the multi-author Carnival of Mysteries Series stands alone and includes at least one visit to Errante Ame's Carnival of Mysteries, a magical, multiverse traveling show full of unusual acts, games, and rides. The Carnival changes to suit the world it's on, so each visit is unique and special. Recommended for readers 18+



R.L. Merrill's Bio

Award-winning author and Bay Area native R.L. "Ro" Merrill (she/her) is an advocate for social justice, a sucker for rescue pets, and a spinner of compelling stories. A veteran public school educator, parent of two brilliant young adults, and wife of a patient collector and fellow bookworm, she was raised on a steady diet of eclectic music and campy horror. She writes quirky and relatable queer and heterosexual characters that know how to use their words and are willing to work hard for their happily ever afters. Readers who dig swoony contemporary romance or shivery supernatural suspense will find themselves right at home in her extensive catalog. Her books contain killer soundtracks, generous amounts of spice, and enough laughs to get readers out of their heads and into their feels. When she's not writing, you can find her cruising in her Bronco, adding to her vinyl and skull collections, or head-banging at a rock show. Stay Tuned for More...