In July of 2012, I finished writing my first novel: a contemporary romantic suspense story about Lizzie, a young, widowed mother whom has sworn off intimacy after reeling from her husband’s death four years ago. Through comical and unexpected twists and turns, her capricious layers are exposed, forcing her on yet another journey of self discovery. As secrets are hidden and revealed, Lizzie finds herself fighting for more than just her tightly guarded heart.

A lot of people have been asking me when they can read my novel, which is so flattering. When I started writing it, I had no intentions of trying to get it published…it was for my enjoyment only. As my sleepless nights continued, and this story poured from my heart, it became clear that I wanted to share it with others.

At this point, I’m reading, reading, reading and reading some more. I’m reading books on how to self-edit what I’ve written, how to be a better writer, and novels in general. My next step is to re-work what I’ve written to make sure the “the plot moves along” and to “polish it up”. I also need to network with “people”- so by all means, if you know any editors at a publishing house, or literary agents, I’m all ears!

I am so confident I have a great story on my hands and have gotten great feedback from the few people whom have read it…and once I feel it’s ready for submission, I will need to convince an agent and/or publisher to read the full manuscript. I intend on this being the first book in a trilogy, so I’m also letting the sequel “simmer” in my head.

So…hang in there! I will continue to update you all on my progress as this journey of mine continues. I went to the Chicago’s Writer’s Conference in September and not only learned a great deal, but also made some fantastic new friends. I am certainly not alone in my endeavors of getting published and have a looooong way to go if (when) that happens.

Keep your fingers crossed!!