January 8, 2019:

Happy New Year to all! After a long hiatus, I’m ready to jump back in to writing and revising. My second book, Blood Money, came out December 10^th and I’m hearing great reviews, which is wonderful--what every writer wants. One lady told me she loved every bit of my book except one section…and wouldn’t you know that one section is my least favorite, as well. It’s the bit on PTSD-which is a sad and sorrowful backstory for one of my characters. I struggled over including it, but in the end, I did as a nod to our Veterans who still struggle with PTSD. Sometimes, you just can’t sugarcoat. Sometimes, the truth just needs to be told. Another friend told me she was unhappy with the fiancé. I assured her so was I. I also told her I talked to him several times about his attitude, but didn’t get anywhere. I welcome all comments from my readers, good or bad, and enjoy discussing the writing process. Throwing words on paper doesn’t even begin to describe what is involved in creating a worthy story--worthy of someone’s time to read. Every word is weighed, every scenario is analyzed, and oftentimes, huge chunks never make it to the final revision. My publisher recently asked for a one-liner about Blood Money and after much consideration, I came up with the following: I try very hard to write stories I’m not ashamed for my grandchildren to read. I realize that quote won’t go down in history as profound or life changing, but it is important to me to tell a credible story, to write about real situations that people want to read, without compromising my ethics. There is still an audience who appreciates less graphic language that leaves something to the imagination. I strive to be that author.