This year, in reflection has been one of the growingest (is that a word?) years for me. On a whim during a dark time in my life, I wrote a novel in 2008 to give me light. With the help of my dear friend Dori, it was edited in 2009 and entered into the Amazon Breakthrough Novel contest January 2010. To my shock, it placed it in the top 250 out of 5,000 Young Adult novels. On a wing and a prayer, Obsidian Mountain Publishing was born and birthed The Emerald Talisman
into the world on 3/23/10. Then, in the midst of taking care of two wonderful (and busy) preschooler boys (ages 2 and 5), I wrote its sequel, The Sapphire Talisman
, birthed 12/15/10. I designed, promoted, marketed, networked, begged, borrowed and stole to get my work in front of as many readers as possible. I'm very proud of The Talisman Series' success. To date, both books hold a strong 4 star rating on GoodReads and TET has been shelved by over 1,000 readers.In the process, I've made some incredible book blogger friends: Eleni from LafemmeReaders, Jessica from Bookaholic, Jen from Extreme Reader Book Reviews, Julie from 5 Monkeys, Yara from Once Upon a Twilight and Kari from A Good Addiction (to name a few). They all have been a tremendous source of encouragement and support in promotion and feedback for me. I can't even begin to thank them enough.
Little did I imagine in my journey I would be introduced to some incredibly talented authors: Abra Ebner- Knight Angels
, Book of Revenge; Estevan Vega, Arson;
Laura Kreitzer - Shadow of the Sun
, Soul Stalker; Lisa Sanchez - Eve of Samhain; Robin DeJarnett - Whirlwind; Kristie Cook - Promise; Killian McRae- 12.21.12
, Kristin Miller, debuting Dark Tide Rising. They've been a huge source of encouragement and so gifted. I'm devouring their works as quickly as possible. My beta reader and Wonder Woman, Lisa aka Lucy Wolfe, who was sent from God by a random click of the mouse. Without her, my sequel wouldn't have been on time. A million hugs to you my dear friend. And I'd be lost without the folks who surround me at home (Donna, Lori, Michele, Corinne, Samantha, Savannah, AnneMarie, MOPS... gosh, I know I'm forgetting someone) and my dear husband makes all of it possible by being my helpmate and support. I love you dearly!
I am happy. Blessed. Loved. Lucky. What an amazing year.
Thank you, everyone, for your support and enthusiasm. In 2011, I have a few goals: finish up the Talisman Series with The Onyx Talisman and start a new series. I'm excited to grow again and share it with you all. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Hugs always, Brenda
ah thanks ...Glad to have met you and read your books..You know your local book pusher ;0). still need read the next book...you know with kids and all ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie... I know all too well. But you've got 2x and 1/2 on me. I don't know how you juggle it! So great to meet you this year!!! <3
ReplyDeleteAw you are the best! I'm glad to have met you too, you are an extraordinary person and writer. :P
ReplyDeleteAww!!!! You're the best *hugs*. I always tell people how fabulous you are and how thankful I am to know you. You amaze me with all you do and, even though you may not know it, it always gives me a little push to do more. :)
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful New Year with your family and I look forward to more fun times together!
I'm so blessed to have met you this year! You are an amazing author, so gifted and talented. I consider myself a lucky girl to know you. Mwah!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe best we can ask for in life is good health, good friends, and good humor. Here's to a fabulous 2011.
ReplyDeleteThe B.R.A reminded me -- I wanted to wish you a very Happy New Year! Only good things to come!
ReplyDeleteYou have been a great friend to me as well! You have worked so hard and your books are fantastic! I am honored to call you my friend! Love you bunches!
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