Appreciation and a request

I agree with Mark Twain. Writing is challenging but fulfilling. Many people try writing at some stage of life. I started in 3^rd grade. My classmates cheered me on, and I was hooked. Besides teaching, I’ve increased my writing activity until it’s what I do most.

In this economy, and perhaps affected by COVID and so many physical book stores closing where it’s possible to browse, book sales are down no matter how hard authors work. A great author friend told me, “Writing is hard work. If someone can quit writing, they should.” I can’t. It’s something I enjoy and believe I’m divinely meant to do.

Thankfully, there are dividends besides sales. It’s wonderful getting the stories of our hearts into print. Books Afloat released January 12^th and has been read by people in European nations as well as across the US and in Canada. I’m working hard to finish Wilderness Wife, a historic novel based on remarkable Marguerite, Mrs. (Doctor) John McLoughlin, which should release Sept. 7^th. Marguerite was the second heroic woman after Sacajawea to cross North America in frontier days, to say nothing of the amazing personal challenges she faced and overcame.

A fun Romeo and Juliet novella comes next. The son and niece of two warring Christmas tree farmers unite while trying to solve major farm problems. The Christmas Tree Wars, should release October 5^th. Can you say, “Busy but happy?”

It’s fun having readers comment as they enter our book worlds. Authors enjoy company on our life journeys. whether sales meet our hopes or not. Meanwhile, it’s fun having my chiropractor, dentist, and top cardiologist read Books Afloat and respond enthusiastically. As I left the Minneapolis Heart Institute office several days ago, one of the best, kindest doctors on the planet smile big and said, “Watch for my review on Amazon—it’s going to be a good one!” That gave my heart an extra boost!

Thanks to all who’ve read Books Afloat and posted reviews on Amazon, BookBub, and/or Goodreads. It helps more than you know. Most reviews have been good. Writing one doesn’t take special skills. Any simple heart-felt response works. If you’re not sure how to post one, I’ll be glad to explain. When the review number reaches 50, it brings books to a more visible category. If you’ve read and enjoyed Books Afloat, please consider doing so. To those who already have, thanks so much.

If you’re a writer or have tried writing, please tell us what that experience was like for you.

Meanwhile, God bless your summer. May we bring encouragement and make a difference everywhere we go!