A relatively new phenomenon

At one time, many years ago, authors weren’t really public figures. They hid out writing their novels and didn’t seek to meet their readers. Should a reader be fortunate enough to live in the same village, perhaps they might catch a glimpse of them in the market. From time to time one would come out of hiding, but that was like spotting Bigfoot. Authors preferred a private life, for the most part.

“The world may know my words, but it has no such privileges with my heart”
― Jane Austen

Sometime in the 20th century, authors stepped more into the limelight. Ernest Hemingway had a robust life outside writing with adventures usually only captured in stories. Gore Vidal was an outspoken political critic. Steven King, though an introvert, enjoyed playing small roles when his books were made into movies.

In today’s world of social media, phones that record videos and take photos, publishers expect more from an author than just words on a page. They want what they refer to as a platform. Essentially, that means people who are interested in what we write. Readers.

While writers may complain about having to do all that extra work, really we’re overlooking an important component to all the blogs and social media and photos of sunsets with scripture . . . Relationships. Over the years I’ve developed beautiful relationships with people I have never met. I love Jane Austen, but I must disagree, many of those who know my words have great privileges with my heart.

Keeping in Touch

At one time, many of you were once subscribed to my e-newsletter. Long story short, because my website was hacked a number of years ago, I lost all your email addresses. So, I’m inviting you to reconnect with me again. Please know, I don’t sell or rent emails and I don’t plan to inundate you with correspondence. I will let you know when inspirational blogs are posted — many of you have said they no longer appear on your feeds — where things are going with upcoming books, author interviews, recipes, and other tidbits that I hope you’ll find enjoyable. These monthly e-newsletters will begin in November.

How do I sign up?

How do you sign up? It’s easy-peasy. In the column right next to this blog is a sign-up section. I would be honored to have those of you previously on my list, and those I have enjoyed connecting with over the years subscribe.

My Shadow Readers . . .

And, there’s another group I wish to address. You dear folks who stay in the shadows reading my blogs, clicking through the website and lingering enough that you are noticed. I am honored you visit and hang around to read a blog or two. Thank you. I hope you’ll join the family and subscribe, too. The only required fields are your first name and your email. And your first name could be whatever you want, if you don’t feel comfortable giving it.

So, the reason for this long blog is to gather you back to the fold. Things are percolating with a few of my stories and I’m hopeful to have some good news soon.

Blessings, my friends. You’re the best!