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Newsletter – July 2025

Jul30

Hello, friends!

Hot, hot, hot!

I recently posted on Facebook about how hot it is, and how I enjoy spending my days indoors, writing. I had many comments from all over the U.S. where people remarked about the high temps in their areas, too. Of course, it is summer, but this year feels exceptionally hot. We’re all suffering together!

I am so grateful for air conditioning. I can’t imagine life without it, although I know many people in the world don’t have this luxury. We keep our thermostat set a bit high to help compensate for the energy being so widely used in this extreme weather, but without AC at all, it would be unbearable.

A swimming pool would be nice right about now–or a clear-running stream close to the house that I could dip my toes into. (Snake-free, of course!) Or what about this lovely fountain! This photo is from my visit to Mobile, AL, where my Southern Secrets Saga is set.

Since I don’t have any of those options, I’ll settle for sitting in my cool office, happily typing away this newsletter. Soon, I’ll be back to working on my newest book.

Ardent Adelia is creeping closer and closer to being done. Woo-hoo! Part of my storyline was inspired by an experience I had the first time I spent the night with a friend that I’d known nearly all my life. I was around twelve years old, and I considered her my best friend at the time. What I discovered on that overnighter was that she was different from what I expected. Going to school together put us in a familiar atmosphere, whereas her homelife introduced me to someone who felt like a stranger. No one in her family was at all mean, my friend just didn’t seem like the same person. I was so uncomfortable at her house, that I got sick to my stomach and called my mom because I wanted to go home. And I did.

Something very similar happens to my characters in Ardent Adelia. Of course, there’s a whole lot more to the plotline, but you’ll have to wait a little longer to find out what it is.

It has been a while since I shared the cover design for this book, so here it is again! Stay tuned to future newsletters for a release date. In the meantime, be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram: jeannehardtauthor

I hope you’re finding ways to stay cool, and maybe being inside will give you the opportunity to read a book or two! I appreciate your readership and will do my best to keep bringing you engaging stories.

With Love,

Jeanne

Bus to Normandy

May13

I love teaching writing classes, and one of the classes I taught last year was called “I Want to Write a Story.” I had taught this class for children, and we had a ball! Their creativity overwhelmed me–in a very good way!

After that, I was asked if I’d like to offer the same class for adults. I eagerly accepted. I used some of the same techniques that I did with the children, but I also challenged myself to do the class assignments right along with my students.

In one class, we brainstormed a story idea. Each student contributed a different part of the story. Two chose the main characters and built on their individual traits (including names), and one chose the location and time period of the story. It was homework assignment–not one we completed in class. Everyone worked on their individual short stories and brought them with them the following week. We were amazed at how each of us brought their story to life.

I was so happy to be accepted as a student as well as their teacher! Below is my story, “Bus to Normandy.” Being that we will soon celebrate Memorial Day at the end of this month, and the anniversary of Normandy Beach next month, I felt this was a fitting time to post it. I hope you’ll enjoy reading this!

Bus to Normandy

Written by Jeanne Hardt

Copyright 2024

Agnus fidgeted with the strap of her designer purse. She kept her handbag snug to her body—she was no fool. She had heard detailed accounts of women her age being targeted and robbed on tour buses.

“I should have stayed at my hotel in Paris,” she mumbled under her breath and peered out the window.

It might have been wise for her to dress less expensively, but she hated to look poor. She had a reputation to uphold—a family legacy of wealth to maintain. Wealth that had not been easily attained. Her family had earned their money honestly, and she deserved the recognition of their accomplishments.

She lifted her head a bit higher, breathed deeply, then looked down at the rings on her fingers—diamonds and rubies. Perhaps she should have left them in the hotel safe.

No. She had handled her finances properly and had no shame in showing the benefits of her keen intellect at managing money.

“Excuse me, ma’am.”

She startled at the sound of the male voice and snapped her head upward. A tall, gray-bearded man stood in the aisle and hovered above her. He wore less-than-adequate attire—a pull-over shirt and blue jeans.

She eyed him up and down. “Yes?”

“Mind if I sit here?” He pointed at the vacant space beside her. “I was sittin’ in the back, and I’m gettin’ a mite carsick—or bus-sick might be better said.” He lightly chuckled.

If she’d had good sense, she would have remained in the middle of the two-person seat as she did after boarding the bus. No one had even considered sitting beside her then.

The bus veered slightly around a corner, and the man grabbed the back of the seat and snorted a laugh. “Nearly put me on my tail.”

She grunted at his crudeness.

“So…” He pointed again. “Can I sit?”

She sighed and tightened the hold on her purse. “I suppose so.” Although she was already practically touching the side of the bus, she pressed herself over until her shoulder butted the window.

The man dropped down onto the seat and held out a hand. “I’m Graham.”

She stared at his hand for a moment, then released her hold on her purse long enough to give his hand a limp shake. “Agnus.”

“Mighty fine to meet you, Agnus.” He cast a wide grin. “And I truly appreciate your lettin’ me sit here. If I’d stayed in the back, I would’ve lost my lunch. No one would’ve liked that, I reckon.”

“Reckon,” she whispered. “I can tell by your voice that you’re American—just as I am, but you’re from the South, aren’t you?”

“Yes, ma’am. Paducah, Kentucky. Born and bred.”

“Hmm.” He looked to be about her age, but aside from that, she doubted they had anything in common. She returned her attention to the window and the passing landscape, wishing she hadn’t been curious enough to ask his origin.

“What about you?” he asked. “Where are you from, Agnus?”

She lifted her head high and kept her gaze outward. “Baltimore.”

“Oh, so you’re from the South, too.” He let out another one of his obnoxious chortles. “Though that often comes up for debate. Some folks don’t like to think of people from Maryland as bein’ Southerners. Lotsa folks from there don’t often show Southern hospitality.”

She whipped around in the seat and faced him directly. “Excuse me?”

“Oh. Sorry. I didn’t mean to offend. I’m sure you’re not one of those kinds of people.” He flashed a sheepish grin.

“You’re quite outspoken, sir.” She pursed her lips. “I always do my best to be kind. I let you sit here, didn’t I?”

“Yes, you did.” He stroked his gray beard. “Maybe we should start over.” His head moved from side to side, and he peered around them. “I suppose I’m just excited to be here, and I do tend to be outspoken—sometimes unfiltered. I was told us old folks can get away with that—comes with our age.” He elbowed her in the ribs.

“Well, I never—”

“I did it again, didn’t I?” He rubbed his hands up and down his pantlegs. “You seem like a nice lady, Agnus, and anyone who’d come on a trip to the Normandy beaches has to be patriotic. I admire that. My grandfather was one of the many men who stormed the beach back in forty-four and lived to tell ’bout it. I saved for months to be able to come on this tour.” His head slowly pivoted around, and he faced her again. “Did you know someone who fought in the war?”

“Not directly, no.” Her face warmed as she said the words.

“You’re turnin’ red.” He grinned and pointed at her cheek. “Don’t be embarrassed. It’s just fine that you’re goin’ there to pay your respects.” He eyed her skirt. “You seem a mite overdressed, though. It can get windy on the beach, and you don’t want your dress blowin’ up to your ears. That would be quite the sight.” He jiggled his brows.

“Good heavens.” She scowled at the man. “You shouldn’t even be thinking such thoughts. I’ll have you know, I don’t appreciate your flirtatious remarks.”

“Oh. I’m not flirtin’. Just yackin’. I didn’t come here lookin’ for a woman. You’re too old for me, anyways.”

“Too old?” She narrowed her eyes at him. “I’m seventy-one, and I have plenty of life left in me. I came to Paris to enjoy the fine art, music, architecture, and French cuisine. I did not come to be tormented by a Kentucky redneck.”

“Redneck?” Graham heartily laughed. “I haven’t been called that in a dog’s age. So… you didn’t come here specifically to see the Normandy beaches like I did? I suppose I should’ve thought—seein’ the way you’re dressed and all—that you might have gotten on the wrong bus. It’s sad…” He frowned and shook his head.

“Sad? What’s sad about the way I’m dressed?”

“It’s not that. It’s just sad that you don’t seem to appreciate what we’re about to see.” His shoulders slumped, and for the first time since he crept up on her, he looked utterly despondent.

“We’re going to see beaches,” she said, straight-faced. “Sand and water.”

“You’re wrong.” He looked her in the eyes. “We’re gonna see history. We’ll walk where soldiers bled and died, fightin’ for our right to be free. Just think what would’ve happened if our country and our allies failed?” He pointed at her. “You wouldn’t have all them fine clothes, ma’am. Heck—we wouldn’t even be on this bus. We might not even exist. Our world was saved on the beaches of Normandy.”

His words resonated in her mind. She swallowed hard. Her insides quivered, and a cold chill cascaded down her back. Sometimes she hated herself for being so judgmental. “My heavens, Graham,” she whispered. “I never thought of it that way before.”

“Well, Miss Agnus, sometimes it just takes someone else to turn on that lightbulb in your mind.” He searched her face as if looking for admonishment, but she found herself speechless.

“Ma’am,” he went on, still watching her. “I’d be proud to have you at my side to walk them beaches together. Will you do me the honor of accompanying me?”

“You want me to—even after the horrid things I said?”

He smiled—a genuine soft one. “You weren’t horrid. We’re just gettin’ acquainted, that’s all. I reckon we can learn a lot from each other.”

She smiled back at him. “I reckon you’re right.”

He grinned and chuckled. This time, she didn’t find it one bit disturbing.

She thought back to her grandson’s final words before she left on the plane for Paris. Don’t be afraid to experience new things, Grandma.

Little did she know that the new thing she would experience would be learning about the past—and from a Southerner nonetheless.

She softly chuckled—something that felt much better than complaining.

Newsletter – April 2025

Apr29

This month certainly flew by….

We spent many days traveling–lots of road time! If any of you have driven across the country, then you know what it’s like. I’m always amazed at the difference in terrain from one state to the next. We saw everything from desert-like baren land to lush mountains covered in trees and even a little remaining snow.

This photo was taken just outside of Deer Lodge, Montana. If you’ve read my series, “His Heart’s Long Journey,” then you might recognize the city name. When I saw the road sign, I just had to take the photo! I love seeing in person where my characters ventured.

There’s so much beauty in this country! People often ask me if I’d consider moving back to Idaho–even my husband asked me that question on this trip. Yes, Northern Idaho is gorgeous and I grew up there, but now that I’ve lived in Tennessee for more than thirty years, it’s home. I enjoyed spending time where I lived in my youth, but a lot of it has changed. The area grew up, too! Coeur d’Alene (where I lived right before moving to Tennessee), has more than doubled in population. It made me a little sad to see all the congestion. However, people that have no idea what it was like in “the old days” absolutely love it. They’ve embraced the mountains and lakes and the city’s pristine beauty. I preferred it before all the high-rises filled the downtown landscape.

Here’s a photo taken going into Coeur d’Alene. It truly is gorgeous!

I fully understand the saying “Home is Where the Heart Is.” My heart is here in the South with my husband and my sweet dog, Jax. I’m at peace here, and at my age, I see that as a very good thing! I don’t need any kind of fast-paced life anymore. Maybe that’s what I saw changed in my old home town. The place is ‘buzzing’ more than it used to. It’s still fun to visit, but I’m happy to be home.

I often wonder about the people who live way out in the vastness of states such as South Dakota and Wyoming, where houses dot the landscape here and there. Miles and miles between each one. For me, that’s too laid back! Too quiet and no ‘buzz’ at all. But I’m sure the people who grew up there and still embrace it would feel stifled in my small town in Tennessee. It’s things like this that inspire my stories.

I’ll be giving a workshop next month at a writer’s conference in Clarksville, TN, that centers around the concept that a character’s environment blends with the character to make them who they are. Lily Larsen, from my book “Whispers from the Cove,” would be a completely different person if she had been raised in St. Louis, MO, rather than in the Smoky Mountains. Our environment definitely shapes us–as do the people that surround us. I’m excited to lead this workshop!

Think about your favorite stories and try to imagine your characters in a different setting. Let me know what you think! Would it completely change the story?

I’d also love to hear what drew you to live where you are. Is it where you grew up, or were you “transplanted” there?

You’ll be glad to know that “Ardent Adelia” is rolling right along. I took time off from writing while on my trip, but I’m back at it again and excited to bring her story to you!

Thank you for sharing all my adventures with me!

HUGS!

Jeanne

Are You Puzzled?

Jun17

For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved puzzles. Mainly, jigsaw puzzles, but I’m also fond of word games like crosswords and word searches. I’ve heard that doing those keeps your brain active, and as I grow older, that becomes more and more important. My parents are in their eighties and still sharp as ever, so I’m hopeful that I’ve inherited their sharpness genes.

So what is it about jigsaw puzzles that draws me in? Maybe it’s because I like to fix things, and if I see something all discombobulated, I want to make it right. Plus, it’s so much fun watching an image come together. I don’t know about you, but I get a happy thrill every time I put a piece in place. I guess it’s good that it doesn’t take much to amuse me!

My first puzzle memory is from when I was about six years old. We lived in Spokane, Washington at that time, and there was a local fair a short distance down the road from us. It was one of those sorts that was likely put on by the high school and run by teenagers. They had all kinds of games and activities for children. I can’t remember what the particular game was that caught my eye, but the prize for winning the game was a puzzle. They were used puzzles donated by the organizers of the event. Used or not, I didn’t care. Trouble was, I didn’t have any money and couldn’t play the game. So, was that a good memory? Oddly, yes, since it makes me smile to remember it. I didn’t get a puzzle from that fair, but my desire for jigsaw puzzles never left me.

I have quite a collection now, and many of my puzzles have been put together more times than I can count. Most of them have 1,000 pieces, and I can usually put them together in a few days’ time. I like to work on them in the evenings after a day of writing. It helps me relax, but it also allows me time to gather my thoughts for my next day of writing.

I like the puzzles that have interesting pieces–those that aren’t a typical shape. They make the entire process more challenging. However, I also appreciate pieces that fully interlock. So, I guess you could say, I love any type of puzzle.

I recently put together the most tight-fitting puzzle I’ve ever encountered. So tight that I could hold it up in the air while it still had a lot of pieces missing. Hopefully, you can see what I mean in this photo.

Yep! You can see right through the middle, and nothing fell apart when I held it up. Crazy! This is the kind of puzzle that wouldn’t even need glue if you decided to frame it.

I always start by putting together the border. I think that’s pretty typical, thought my son tells me it would be more challenging if I didn’t. From the picture on the box, I also know what it’s supposed to look like when it’s done. Again, my son tells me not to look at the image to increase the challenge of putting it together. I try that sometimes, but there are certain puzzles that stump me and I have to look.

I think my writing style is similar to the way I construct puzzles. I know how I want a story to start, (thus the border), and I know how I want it to end. (Like the finished picture). But the middle often takes me in different directions. I may add a piece that takes me down an unexpected road. Those little surprises makes the process so much fun! A character who I think is minor becomes a major part in putting together the puzzle of my story.

I suppose I also like to fix the discombobulated lives of my characters. I promise a happy ending–eventually–but they usually go through many challenges on their way to attaining it.

Thank you for reading, and I’d love to hear your ‘puzzling’ stories, too!

Write on!

To Review or Not to Review

Mar24

I don’t ever like to say something bad about anyone or anything, but on occasion, it’s good to let people know if you’re disappointed with something. For example, there have been two times in my life that a manufacturer has changed a particular food product that I enjoy. Supposedly, they’ve made it “new and improved” and “better-tasting.” In the two instances I’m referring to, I completely disagreed with the manufacturer. So much so that I wrote a letter to one stating my disappointment in the change, and the other, I made a phone call and left voicemail. I suppose you could say I’m passionate about food, and when a beloved recipe is altered, I find it disappointing.

Of course, my grievances did little good. They didn’t say, “Oh, my goodness, Jeanne Hardt doesn’t like this new recipe, so we’d better go back to the old one!” I don’t have that kind of pull. Although, I did get a coupon from the manufacturer I wrote to for future products. Still, I would have rather had the original item before the recipe changed.

So, where am I going with all this? Well . . . as an author, I can say without a doubt that positive reviews are always welcome and appreciated on my “product.” Hopefully, none of my books will leave a bad taste in your mouth or the desire for a change in my recipe. It would be wrong of me to say, “Don’t write a review if you didn’t like my book,” regardless of the fact that I prefer reading the positive comments! Not everyone has the same taste in literature, and I’ve gotten my share of negative reviews. Honestly, even they can be helpful. I never respond to any review, because that’s not my place to do so, or the purpose of a review. Still, I put my mind to what was said and ask myself if there’s something I need to improve. Most of the time, I simply accept that my style isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay.

The main purpose of a review is to help a potential new reader decide if they want to give the book a try. So, with that being said, reviews are important to those potential readers. They might base their decision solely on the rating of that book or a particular comment that a reader has made. Because of that, I encourage you to post reviews. I believe that many venues will also allow you to post a rating alone, without a written review, which is also good.

If you’re unsure what to write, simplicity is best. It’s as easy as saying, “Great story.” “Captivating.” or “A page-turner.” Those kinds of comments are always appreciated, and hopefully, you’ll feel that way about what you read. Most importantly, honesty is best.

There are a few things I’d caution you NOT to do:

1. Don’t give away secrets. Nobody likes spoilers, and if you tell the big ‘aha’ moment in the book, you’ll be spoiling it for the potential reader. So choose your remarks carefully. If you like or don’t like a particular character, it’s fine to say, but don’t give away what that particular character does. We all like to be surprised, don’t we?

2. As an author, I’m so blessed to have friends that read my books. And, of course, I hope that never changes! If you know an author and post a review for their books, it’s a good idea not to say, “this author is my friend,” in the context of the review. It can affect the validity of your review, because the reader might think you’re simply being kind to your friend by saying something nice about their book.

Authors wouldn’t have careers without readers, and we appreciate each and every one of you! We strive to write stories you’ll treasure, and we thank you for taking the time to let us know your thoughts.

Write the Right Thing

Aug30

When I began my writing journey, I confess, I was basically clueless on the industry and the methods of writing in general. Thanks to the guidance of my writer friends, Romance Writers of America, and the Nashville, Tennessee Chapter, Music City Romance Writers, I was given direction as well as an abundance of encouragement.

I discovered that my stories aren’t true romances, and what I write is often categorized as women’s fiction. However, a lot of women’s fiction ends sadly, and I do promise a happy ending. It sometimes takes a while to get there, and maybe not until the end of a series, but there will be a happily ever after.

I’ve always had a passion for history, and that love led me to write historical fiction. It’s so much fun to imagine myself walking into the past and what it might have been like to live in a different time. I enjoy the research and love to intertwine real history with my fictitious characters.

I appreciate every reader who picks up one of my books and shares my journeys. I think many of you wondered why I deviated from historical fiction this past year and ventured into medieval fantasy. I guess I can chalk that up to another learning experience! I followed my heart and wrote what moved me. Plus, I had it in my head that the medieval time period was in essence ‘historical,’ however, since I didn’t base my stories on anyone or anything ‘real,’ I definitely took a sharp turn away from my usual stories.

That being said, I hope you’ll give the Shrouded Thrones series a read and shoot me a message with some feedback. I like to think of this series as a grown-up fairy tale. In book one, “Island in the Forest,” the kingdoms are at peace. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BJ2P283However, by book two, the story gets a bit dark when power-hungry evil rulers seek total domination. The final book in the series, “Queen of Prophecy,” will soon be released, and I’m excited to share how everything comes together. I’m going to miss the characters in this series, as well as the time period. Though set in fictitious realms, the story embraces the feel of historic England, with maybe a bit of a King Arthur flair.

I will soon be returning to United States historical fiction, and I’m excited to start on my next project. “His Heart’s Long Journey” will be based on the true story of one of my friend’s relatives. It will be set in the old west and end up in the small mining town of Murray, Idaho.

So, how do I know that I’m writing the right book? Every one I start is a new adventure, and I simply follow my heart. It guides my mind and fingers, and I just sit down and type. The funny thing is, sometimes in the morning, when I read what I wrote the day before, I don’t remember writing some of it. I guess I ‘get in the zone’ and just go. My characters frequently tell me what they want to say and do, and I just record it. Is that strange?

Unusual or not, I’m thankful for the freedom I have to write what I want. What a blessing to be able to do so!

If you are a writer, keep at it! Follow your heart and write what moves you. And if you’re a reader, thank you for every book you pick up and read. You keep us writers motivated and give us the ability to do what we love.

A Toast to Modern Conveniences

Jan18

Being a writer of historical fiction, I spend many hours researching fine details. I like to be sure all my facts are correct before submitting anything for publication. Yes, I write fiction, but I also intertwine real events and actual people.

The little things matter. It’s the small stuff that can make a reader feel like they’re really back in time, experiencing everything right along with my made-up characters.

I’ll never forget seeing a Civil War era movie and becoming frustrated when I noticed that the men on the screen were wearing belts. The kind held in place by belt loops on their trousers. Because of my extensive research, I knew men didn’t wear those types of belts in the 1860s. They held their pants up by using suspenders, referred to at that time as braces.

But, I’ve drifted off the subject I meant to highlight in this post. Every bit of research makes me appreciate all that we have at our fingertips today.

We flip a switch and have instant light. I can step into my shower in the morning and within seconds have hot water cascading over me. And speaking of bathrooms, how many of you would ever want to be forced to make do without a toilet? A little play on words. (grin)

As for communication, way back when, it took days or even weeks to get news about happenings around the country. The delay makes for great story plots and wonderful suspense. That’s part of the reason I enjoy writing pre-phone fiction. If I wrote contemporary, nearly each and every person would have a cell phone within reach. It takes away a lot of the mystery, but there are also wonderful benefits to today’s instantaneous communication.

Are we spoiled, or what?

My husband jokes about going off the grid. Honestly, there are times I think he’s serious, but he knows I couldn’t do it. Well, I could if I had to, but I’m not ready to give up modern conveniences. That being said, I think we all need to appreciate them more. Even now, not everyone has it so easy.

So, here it is, 2017, and I’d like to make a toast to the New Year and all the wonderful modern conveniences. I raise my glass high and hope you’ll lift yours to mine.

I’m grateful that I can send this to you electronically and not by Pony Express. I can type my words on a laptop computer and not make you struggle to read my poor penmanship.

I love living in the modern world and having the ability to step back in time and imagine what it would’ve been like in the good ol’ days. I can write stories from my heart and travel in the pages of a novel without having to work my fingers to the bone doing daily chores. The strength of our ancestors is truly admirable. I hold in high regard all the pioneers and those who struggled simply to find food and keep a roof over their heads.

There’s a deep romanticism in the past, and definitely something to be said for the slow pace and simplicity of life back then. But it was by no means rosy.

As I type, our washing machine is faithfully cleaning our clothes, my standing lamp is shedding light on my work, and my phone is close by, just in case someone calls. Like my husband, wondering if I’m ready to move to the remotest part of Alaska.

Nope.

cades-cove-cabin

 

 

 

They Seem So Real!

Jun9

I’m suffering from a chapped nose. No, I don’t have a cold. Yes, I sometimes have allergies, but that’s not the reason either.

I just finished writing a difficult chapter. I can usually knock out a chapter a day, but this one took three. Along with half a box of tissues.

I tell myself all the time that I’m not crazy. Maybe that in itself is a little nuts. Then, I’m reminded of one of my favorite movie scenes from “Romancing the Stone.” Author, Joan Wilder, is hunting for tissues. Sobbing over what she’s written.

When I first saw that film over thirty years ago, I wasn’t a writer. At least, not an author of novels. But now that I am, I get it! When my characters hurt, I hurt. Thus, the tears.

I’ll never forget the first time someone told me that my characters seemed real. Probably one of the best compliments I’ve ever received. They’re certainly real to me. Otherwise, why would I cry for them? Why would I care so much?

I recently had a great conversation with a reader who’s on Book 3 of my Southern Secrets Saga. She talked to me about things that were happening in the story and asked a few questions. But mostly, we talked about the characters and how much we love them. I felt like we were discussing long-time mutual friends. At one point, she apologized for going on so long about the books. Oh, my goodness! There definitely had been no need for that, and I told her so. It was fun! I doubt she realized how she’d made my day.

I’m glad the imaginary people I bring to life feel real. I’m afraid that if they weren’t relatable, the story would fall flat. A reader should be able to walk hand in hand with the characters and experience what they’re going through. Good and bad. Emotion is healthy. I just wish I could spare my nose!

Desires cover 850

More Cute Puppies?

May26

Next month will mark the second anniversary of my first published novel, “Marked.” Since that time, I’ve released nine other novels. Yes, I’ve been typing like a manic fool!

I’m forever grateful to my editors, Cindy Brannam and Alicia Dean. They keep me on my toes and make certain my finished product is the best it can be. I also want to take this opportunity to thank my cover artist, Rae Monet, flat designer, Karen Duvall, and my amazing formatter, Jesse Gordon.

Of course, I wouldn’t be where I am today without readers! You all have blessed me with encouragement, kind words, and the ability to keep doing what I love. THANK YOU!

But what does this have to do with cute puppies? No, it wasn’t a teaser just to get you dog lovers reading my post!

Sometime ago, I wrote a blog called, “Who Wouldn’t Like a Cute Puppy?” Actually, the post was written in November of 2013 if you’d like to read it!

After all this time, and some reviews that could easily get me down, I felt it was time to revisit those thoughts.

Creative people have a terrible tendency of focusing on the negative. A singer might look at a room full of smiling faces during a performance as a bad experience. Why? Because the guy in the corner constantly frowned. The singer singles him out and tries as best she can to make him smile, but the more she sings, the deeper his scowl becomes. She takes it as a personal affront and ignores the rest of the crowd. They cheer and clap at the end of the song, but her heart is in her shoes, because she couldn’t make the stranger smile.

She doesn’t consider that perhaps his girlfriend just broke up with him and the song reminds him of her. Or maybe, someone close to him has passed away and nothing anyone could do would make him smile. There is also the possibility that he truly doesn’t like the way she sings. Hmm…

Bottom line. People have different tastes.

Whenever I stroll along in public and see someone carrying a puppy or walking a dog, I think of one of my dear friends. She views dogs, like I see snakes. If someone came toward me with a snake coiled around them, I’d run the opposite direction. I sometimes even squeal when I’m digging in my garden and a larger-than-normal worm flips up in the soil. Puppies and dogs, however, draw me in. I want to pet them, love on them, and take them home! My poor friend becomes physically ill around them, and she can’t understand why they’re allowed out in public places.

We all have different likes and dislikes. As a writer, it’s important that I write what moves me. But I have to be realistic and know that not everyone will be moved by it. Someone will think it’s the worst book they’ve ever read, while another person will deem it the best. And hopefully not just my mom! She’s a little biased.

Criticism is tough to take, but no matter what we do in life, it’s going to be there. It starts when we’re little–children can be awfully cruel to each other–and continues as we grow. What matters is how we deal with it.

I’m writing this to remind myself and hopefully help all of you! I was told more than once not to read my reviews, but it’s hard not to. So when I do, I decipher the validity of what’s been said. If something critical is pointed out consistently, then I know I need to dig deeper and see if it’s something that should be ‘fixed.’ As of yet, I’m glad to say that the negative comments have been few and far between. As for the validity, I believe the comments were valid for that individual. My books weren’t their taste. And that’s okay, because many other people loved them.

Exposing ourselves to the bare bone isn’t always easy. Putting creative work in front of the masses is scary to say the least! But, I get incredible joy sharing my stories with the world. I love bringing characters to life and making them feel real. When my readers discuss them with me as though they’re someone we both know personally, I want to do a happy dance. And I do. Internally. I don’t want them to think I’m nuttier than they already believe me to be!

Thank you for reading my post! If you’re a writer, WRITE ON, and always keep your chin up.

If you’re a reader, thank you from all of us authors! Without you, we’d shrivel.

Cute little puppy, or horrid beast?

Cute little puppy, or horrid beast?

 

E-Book or Paper?

Jan28

When I first began writing and then moved forward to publication, I contemplated format and assumed that the people who would want to read my books would prefer ones they could hold in their hands. A paperback or hardcover book, not an e-reader.

Then, after Marked was published, I was astonished that the majority of readers were buying the e-book, not the paperback. I understand the convenience, not to mention the lower cost. E-books make sense. They’re much easier to transport when moving, they don’t take up all your shelf space, and they don’t tear. However, I’m still inclined to prefer a book I can smell, feel, and mark with a magnetic bookmark.

I thought that maybe my desire for the old-fashioned kind has to do with my age. Yes, I’m fifty-something and not ashamed to say so. I’m not as skilled at modern devices as the younger generation, but I pride myself in learning. I’m grateful for the advances in technology. Years ago, I wrote my first manuscript on a typewriter. I much prefer my laptop!

So, to test my theory that only us ‘old folks’ prefer paper books, I queried a group of high school students I recently spoke to about my writing process. These students were, for the most part, aspiring writers. I was curious as to what they like to read, but then when I asked whether they preferred e-books or real books, they unanimously said real. Like me, they said they like to hold a book. Granted, you can hold an e-reader, but it’s not quite the same. Of course, they spend most of their time on electronic devices, so a paper book is a nice change.

So now I throw it out to you. What do you prefer? Are e-books a fad that will fade, will they continue to be simply an option, or do you feel that eventually the paper books will be obsolete and there will no longer be a choice? Curious minds want to know …

I prefer a paper book!

I prefer a paper book!