Many friends have asked why I haven’t said much about my books lately. Part of that is intentional–now that I am working with an agent and am negotiating with publishing houses, I know professional eyes are watching. There’s nothing like knowing people are observing you to make you want to be (at least pretend to be) more reserved.
But, here’s a brief update on what I’m doing these days:
My first completed manuscript, Shaken, has garnered interest from publishers, but no contracts yet. So, this book (and the other two in the San Francisco Earthquake Chronicles) are on hold for the moment as we wait for decisions to be made. I can’t wait to get back to these stories and there is no question that they will be dusted off in the near future.
In the meantime, I’ve thrown myself head-first into my newest book, First Impressions. This novel is based during the 1920s and takes place in Port Angeles, Washington. After being raised by an alcoholic father and a bootlegger brother, Laurie Burke resolves to find at least one honorable man to fill her life. When Laurie meets Daniel Shepherd on the moonlit bluff overlooking the shore, she assumes he’s just another bootlegger. Federal agent Samuel Brown could be the answer to her prayers, but first impressions are rarely what they seem.
First Impressions is based loosely on a nugget from an old family story. Next week I get the joy of traveling to Port Angeles with my parents and kids to do some on-the-ground research. I can’t wait to stand on that bluff and look down at the beach where the bootleggers would have landed their boats. It gives me a thrill just thinking about it. Researching this book has been a lot of fun and, surprisingly, a lot of calories (see my earlier post about Fairley’s Pharmacy).
The proposal for this novel was warmly received by editors present at the Mount Hermon Christian Writer’s Conference, so I am excited about its future. The rough draft is coming together quickly, and with the help of next week’s research, I think it’s going to be a thrilling and romantic story.
I want to thank all of you for your prayers and encouragement. It really gives me a boost knowing that I have so much support at home, in my church family and beyond. I hope that I will have good news to report soon, but until then, I’ll keep plugging away–and trying to act reserved.
Sounds like things are going well! Can’t wait to hear what comes next.
I feel for you–the waiting can be a long and trying process. I so look forward to reading your San Fransisco series one day! I will keep you and your writing in my prayers.
Thanks for your support, Sarah and Joanne. I am so thankful that I know you both!
Karen, aside from our very different WIPs and finished manuscripts, sounds like we are in the exact same place of waiting, and working. And trusting it all to God’s good plans and timing.
I feel your excitement about going to Port Angeles. There’s nothing quite like standing in a place you’ve researched, dreamed, and written about for the first time, is there? I have a hankering to do the same, but mine would require more $ to reach than is presently available. Writing 18th C American history from the west coast is tough sometimes! But since I lived on the east coast for over 20 years, I have many memories to draw from.
Have a wonderful trip! And may you rest in knowing our God has your steps ordered perfectly, as you submit it all to Him.