Wow, what a year it’s been. 2016 has been a year of celebration for me. I’ve been blessed with two beautiful new babies – a niece and a nephew – and my book baby, Home to Bindarra Creek has done very nicely since its release in December 2015.

Last month I received the news that Home to Bindarra Creek had made it to the finals in Romance Writers of Australia’s Romantic Book of the Year Award (RUBY). I’m thrilled to be there with several wonderful authors who I admire greatly. Years ago, when I began this journey, I had dreams and aspirations but I never imagined being nominated, not once but twice, for this prestigious award.

I didn’t make this journey alone though. With every story I write, I have the support of my amazing critique partners and beta readers whose feedback is invaluable, and my family who make sure I’m fed and watered while I immerse myself in my own little world.

Home to Bindarra Creek might never have been written were it not for the fabulous SE Gilchrist whose brainchild the series was, and the ladies from the Hunter Romance Writers who so kindly invited this West Aussie to join them in this venture. What a pleasure it’s been to work with such a talented and organized group of authors. We created a town we all wanted to live in. Thank you.

To my wonderful critique partners: Kerrie Paterson, SE Gilchrist, Jennie Jones, Lily Malone, Claire Boston, Nora James, Susanna Rogers, Anna Jacobs and Teena Raffa-Mulligan – your input is magic. You’ve helped me craft a book with heart. My beta reader, Anne O’Dell, who gives me such wonderfully honest feedback – you’re a treasure. Not to be forgotten, my editor Belinda Holmes – you make me smile with your wonderfully uplifting comments and suggestions. And of course, readers, judges and RWA for making all this possible.