Home to Bindarra Creek – Page 2

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.

There’s something sweet about holding a paperback in your hands, even more so when it’s your own hard work. As much as I love my Kindle, there is no competition for the feel and smell of the real deal. Today, so many happy memories were made (except for the air conditioning saga – that’s a story for another day).

First, I woke up to fabulous news from fellow Bindarra Creek Romance author, Kerrie Paterson that Home to Bindarra Creek had hit the number 1 spot in Westerns! At one stage we were side by side, but welcomed in new contender at number 2.

Then came more great news. Our Dirty Drafters critique group comprised of myself, Jennie Jones and Lily Malone, lined up in a row and paid tribute to good old-fashioned teamwork! We played tag, swapping positions a few times during the day. I couldn’t possibly think of a better sandwich to be in (unless it’s all 13 Bindarra Creek Romances in a row!)

Last but not least, my proof copies arrived early and I could feel and smell my book in print. Mums will recognise the expression of pure bliss on their baby’s face when they clutch their favourite blanket or suck that flavoured dummy. Yep, that was me today, sniffing away with a look of bliss on my face at the exotic perfume of fresh ink and newly trimmed paper.

Could life get any better? (Well, with the exception of a working air conditioner in the expected 38 degree celsius heat?) Oh hell no! Fly, Dan and Alice, fly.

Oh and yeah, I almost forgot! If you like, you can read my latest newsletter here.