A new story is spilling.

I’m three chapters in to what I hope will become my second novel and the adrenaline is pumping. This one involves two women friends that share a really big secret. There’s also a semi-eccentric, perfectly lovable older woman character. Subliminally, I think I’m not ready to let go of Annie Jo, so I’m resurrecting her in a new character — but this time she’s an amateur fortune teller named Millie, and she has some hilarious quirks that will be tons of fun to write.

As a new novelist, I’ve learned a couple of things:

• I really love making things up. Fiction is really freeing. I never knew how fun — and addictive — it could be.
• I’m a pantser. From the writer’s blogs I’ve been reading, there are pantsers and there are plotters. I’ve got a loose web of plot lines, but I tend to get there by the seat of my pants. Just sitting down at the keyboard to see where it takes me.
• Your encouragement is everything. I had such a hard time gauging “Jaybird’s Song” before I got reader’s feedback that help me confirm, alter and push the story out. Since then, your fabulous reviews of my story have made me really, really want to try it again.

I’m up to 26 5-STAR reviews for Jaybird’s Song! 

Blown away! Outrageously humbled and so grateful. Thank you!

My first benchmark was to hit 25 reviews, as word in the blogs is that Amazon will take note and hopefully make some marketing effort toward suggesting the book to readers who buy books in the same genre. I’m there, PLUS!

Benchmark II is 50 reviews as then Amazon or another publisher could take interest in re-releasing it with a bigger push. If you’ve read “Jaybird’s Song,” I’d appreciate a review on Amazon or Goodreads. Be sure to log in to your Amazon account if you purchased online so it will show as a verified purchase.

And (TOP SECRET ADMISSION COMING:) I’ve mailed a copy to Reese Witherspoon. It was my friend Pattie Baker’s idea. Movie producer Reese loves stories with strong, colorful female characters and those of you who’v read it will agree that there lots of coolness, depth and fun between Josie, Beverly, Annie Jo, Ansley, Laura Liz, more.

Meanwhile, I’m thrilled to know that so many of you like my story. I love hearing from people with questions and comments. I would LOVE to talk about the book under any number of scenarios:

• A Dunwoody book club is reading “Jaybird’s Song.” I’ll join them for a book discussion near the end of May and I’m SO excited. Would love to do more! Will travel!
• Lets meet for coffee or lunch. Don’t have a book club? I’d still love to meet to talk about your questions.
• Email or call— 404-680-9604. Feedback is so helpful, even if it isn’t 5-STAR feedback, I’d love to hear your thoughts. For example… I’m putting together a reader’s guide. What suggestions do you have for discussion?

I’m groovin’ on this novelist plan. Thanks for your jazz, too. Meanwhile, Millie’s calling…