On Trying New Things

Life changes during the pandemic for a variety of reasons. Disruptions to routine. Different ways of thinking. During these moments, it's good to try new things, or fall back on old standards. 

For an author (and I've heard this from a large number of my colleagues), we're living in a world where making stuff up isn't keeping pace with the unreal happenings of everyday life. Truly, you can't make this stuff up. No one would believe it, or suspend disbelief were we to write it down. Current events are extremely disruptive to the creative process.

When I was young, lo those many years ago, the holidays meant putting together a jigsaw puzzle. Sitting at a table with my dad and/or my sisters. It was a time of peace and togetherness. Sitting still. Together. I got two puzzles for Christmas this year. What a great reminder of quieting my mind and concentrating on one thing for a period of time. Best thing I did this winter so far.

Being "inside" also meant trying new and different things. While I had been trying to write my next book, all the outside distractions made it extremely difficult to focus. So I returned to an old manuscript that I had tucked away because 1) it was different than what I usually write and 2) sometimes its easier to edit than to make up stuff in a world that defies logic. Lessons I've learned: Editing isn't much easier than writing when the world is taking a dump. In fact, I got more comments from my editor on the "old" story than I've had on any of the other sixteen books we've worked together on. Never one to back away from a challenge, I soldiered on.

Which brings me to RELEASE DAY! Please welcome into the world, COYOTE LEGACY, A Canyon Legends Fantasy. Yes, it's a diversion from my normal fare, but I hope you'll find it interesting. Inspired by the beautiful scenery of Utah and Arizona, I gave my imagination free rein, tapping into the legends of the Canyonlands.

If you're of the opinion I should stick to my usual storytelling, never fear. The fourth installment in the Hillendale novels, INTERRUPTED MAGIC,  is coming in March! 

In the meantime, I'd like to invite you along on my flight of imagination. Want a recommendation? One of my beta readers had this to say:

"I am completely blown away!  That is one of the best books I’ve ever read!  Your writing is exceptional…your imagination is magical…you’re a great storyteller…I don’t know how this book could get any better than what I’ve just read.  I was completely captivated!"

You can get your copy here.

Maybe a little over the top, but it sure made me feel good! And maybe you’ll like it, too!

Available in ebook and paperback.