Today is a very important day for me. June 12th is the one-year anniversary of the publication of my first cozy mystery novel, Rhubarb & Revenge.

There is a part of me that doesn’t believe this is really happening. After years of starting but never finishing a cozy mystery, I sometimes have to remind myself that I have published three novels, with a fourth book on the way at the end of this year.

By far the biggest highlight of the past year is that people are reading my cozy mystery novels. Up until last year, the only person who had ever read my cozy mysteries was my husband. 

And now my books actually exist out in the world. I can see them and touch them and carry them around. My name is right there on the cover. They are no longer ideas in my head, but novels in the real world.

I am grateful for everyone who has read my books. I am especially grateful for the people who provided words of encouragement, either in person or online. Knowing that other people are reading my books and having them ask when the next one will be out is my top thrill as an author. It’s the best reason to write.

What is in store for the year ahead? 

Now that I have started publishing cozy mysteries, I don’t want to stop! 

Right now, I am developing my second series. I am excited about this one, as it will be a cozy mystery featuring a ghost and one of my all-time favorite hobbies: crochet! I plan for the first book in that series to be published in the spring of 2027. Stay tuned for more details!

This first year has been packed with so many new experiences, and I have learned so much. By far the biggest thing I learned this year is how much fun it is to share my books with others who love mysteries. 

As always, I thank you for joining me on this writing journey.