I have a solid understanding of brain anatomy, but despite that practical knowledge, I’ve always envisioned my headspace like a scene from a Disney cartoon. Rows of overloaded file cabinets gape with folders askew. Tables are piled high with materials not yet organized. Faded books overwhelm tall shelves. And, of course, a weathered sea chest locked with chains contains all those memories I truly don’t want to revisit.

Lately, I’ve had the sense that there is simply no more room up there. Every available corner is packed with politics, environmental concerns, worries about the future messes my children and grandchildren will need to cope with. The central aisle focuses on marketing last year’s book, editing this year’s manuscript, reading and reviewing. And somewhere in the remaining crannies, there are meal plans, grocery runs, dog walks, workouts, and, oh yeah, this is tax season, isn’t it?

I make lists. I stay focused. I spend wonderful time with family and friends. Don’t get me wrong—I’m blessed to live a life that I love. And if I, in my highly protected existence, feel like my head is going to explode, it underscores the load that so many others are carrying. I am sending a hug to each of you reading this, whether or not your attic space is as crowded as mine. Because that’s what we need right now. Outreach and mutual support. And the persistence to pack one or two more action items onto our to-do lists, in the hopes that some of them will make a difference.

What does your brain space look like today?

(photo credit - Shutterstock 1353390536)

Etcetera

The new manuscript—working title, FAILURE POINT, a story of Suspense with plenty of heart—is zooming ahead. I got fantastic feedback from my team of beta readers, and I’m pleased with the changes I’m making. It looks increasingly likely that I’ll be able to release this book this fall, so stay tuned—you’'ll hear more about the story in the months ahead!

Heartfelt thanks to all of you who have been reading and reviewing ISLAND ENDGAME, which currently has 4.8 stars out of 5 on Amazon. Want to help? If you’ve read the book, please consider leaving an honest review—one or two sentences is plenty. (And if you’ve already reviewed—-THANK YOU!) Reviews are great anywhere, but the impact is particularly helpful on Amazon (Amazon Review) or Goodreads.

I had a great time last week babysitting my two granddaughters and their new puppy in snowy Boston. Unfortunately, they gifted me with Hand/Foot/Mouth virus, so I’m writing this back home while confined to a bedroom in hopes my husband doesn’t catch it. If it’s not one thing, it’s another, right?

Photos: Below, granddaughters (yay!), their new pup, Maisy, and a photo of Kalen (our own dog) so she doesn’t get jealous. LOL

Keep scrolling for this issue’s Giveaway.

Giveaway! A phenomenal historical novel

Women of a Promiscuous Nature by Donna Everhart

All of Donna Everhart’s books are memorable, but this recent release is particularly timely. It details the American Plan, a regulation in effect in the first half of the 20th century that permitted government regulation of women’s bodies and sexuality. Ate in a restaurant alone? Paused to talk to a man in the street? A neighbor believed you might be stepping out? If you’re a woman, that could lead to incarceration without due process.

A heartwarming tale of resistance and resilience, this story follows several women arrested and brought to the State Industrial Farm Complex for Women (yes, this was a real thing). This is a page-turning story of friendship, mutual support and, ultimately, fighting back—a must-read title for your TBR pile.

If you’re a subscriber, you're automatically entered to win a signed copy. 

Congratulations to Sherry T., who won a copy of THE LOST BAKER OF VIENNA by Sharon Kurzman in my last issue.

Book Clubs

I love meeting with Book Clubs--in person if local, or I'm always happy to join you via Zoom. Just send me a message through my website.