A New Chapter

It is said that authors are at their best when writing about something they’ve lived. Though I can’t comment on the “best” part, I can say, without a doubt, that working on my latest book, From the Boardroom to the Pantry, has been my most enjoyable writing experience. My fingers flew across the keyboard, the ideas coming fast and furious.

My author’s journey began in 2018 when I penned my first historical romance, Here and Then After. I loved the entire writing process (even the editing!) and often go back and read that first novel to see how far I’ve come. I would publish five more stories in the years that followed, surprising even myself.

However, in 2020, as I was writing my fourth romance, the world faced a challenge most were unprepared for. In fact, the chaos brought many to their knees.

My husband and I were newly retired, but instead of a life filled with travel and hobbies, we were hammered with pandemic lockdowns and growing uncertainty. Like many, we were fearful for our family and scrambled with what to do. It was then we decided to take matters into our own hands.

We embarked on an extraordinary adventure, transforming our beautiful country home into a self-sufficient homestead. It started with a garden, but then came the fruit orchard, medicinal crops, and (get ready for this) chickens! This was a gigantic life-altering change for someone who had worn heels more than sneakers most of her life.

We created a massive pantry, and I began to bake bread and preserve food. The world was in disarray, but we were the happiest ever. In the years that followed, we honed our skills and learned much about homesteading. It stood to reason that I would want to share our story, including the stumbles we made along the way. 

Does this mean I will no longer write romance? Of course not. In fact, I’m working on my seventh at this moment. Romances are stories of hope and happiness, and the world (and I) needs this positivity. But trying something new is exhilarating and rewarding.

We live in difficult times, but the resilience of the human spirit is incredible. I wrote this book hoping our story will help others find their strength. We all have it in us, all that is needed it a bit of courage.

Write On,

DMP