Happy (hot!) August!

As summer speeds by at warp speed (is it ONLY me that feels this way? It can’t be!), I have been frantically scheduling move-in dates for my sons going back to college, last minute wedding planning with my daughter, “reconnects” with teacher friends before they head back to the classroom, and drop-in visits with my parents after my mom’s hip surgery.

And while I was juggling these various social appointments, despite them all being different, I realized they were actually all the same in one big way:

Connection.

And that revelation took me on a walk down memory lane.
Remember the childhood game Connect Four?
That cool “upright” Checkers game where you slip red or black checkers into a plastic grid, trying to get four in a row before your opponent? Horizontal, vertical, diagonal—it didn’t matter how you did it, as long as you got four in a row or blocked your opponent’s string of four, you won!

I loved that game!
I loved the plotting, the strategizing, the challenge of trying to figure out how I could connect my four pieces…and beat my sister. :)

Little did I know, “Connect Four” would also become a winning formula when I became an author a few decades later.

Back in 2016, when my first story, “Worst Cat Ever,” was released in the Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Very Good, Very Bad Cat book, I was (pretty) confident in the story and my writing skills, I was (somewhat) confident in my ability to connect with readers, and I was (mostly) clueless in how to build and grow my author platform and promote my book. In fact, I didn’t HAVE an author platform—no website, no author social media, very limited book promotion, and no “pre-release” hype.

What can I say? You don’t know what you don’t know…and I didn’t have a clue about the marketing side of publication! I just loved to write and was thrilled to see my story in print—especially in the Chicken Soup anthology series I loved so much.

Sound familiar?

Fast forward to 2024 when my debut middle-grade novel, PREMONITION: THE GIFT, was released with Black Rose Writing. This time, I was ready (or so I thought!)

I had an author website!
I had an author Instagram account!
I had a great publisher who was guiding my marketing and sharing publicity strategies, and I was connecting with local bookstores and spreading the word.
Life was GOOD!

And yet…
Sales were slower than I imagined, reviews were challenging to obtain, book events were sometimes difficult to find, and bookstores were often a tough sell.
And I was starting to panic!

What was the problem? What was I doing wrong?
Honestly…nothing.
The problem was, there are hundreds and hundreds of really good middle grade books out there. And without a connection, an intentional, targeted strategy to really stand out and get noticed, it was hard to crack the line up.

I wasn’t sure what to do, but I knew something had to change.

So it was back to the drawing board…or, rather, the game board. :)

I learned four key connections can help your book marketing explode—and when I figured out how to “connect four,” that childhood game I loved to win became a winner for my writing career.

Here’s how:

1. Friends and Family
Have your family and friends read your books? Recommended them to their friends? Written a review?

Do your extended friends and family, the “friends of friends” and “cousins twice removed” (removed from where, I’m not sure!), even know you are an author? This may sound silly, but until I asked, I didn’t realize there was a shocking amount of misinformation out there in my social circles about my “little hobby.”

Speaking of, this is also a great time to nip that annoying question. You know the one: “And how is your ‘little hobby,’ going?” Yep, set the record straight once and for all—you are a writer, this is your job, and you would love for them to read your book. And would they mind leaving a quick review while they’re at it? (Said with a sweet smile and a thank you. :) )

You might be surprised how many of your friends and family, or even casual acquaintances or co-workers, want to help you out, but just aren’t quite sure how. So tell them!

When PREMONITION: THE GIFT released, I was shocked when my uncle read it (it IS a kid’s book, after all), but I shamelessly asked him to write a review, and he did. Right away. (Thank you, Wayne!)

Lean in to your friends and family. Ask them to help you spread the word, loud and proud—you never know whose neighbor’s sister’s best friend needs to read your book right now!

2. Public Events

Writing may be a lonely, solo endeavor, but promotion certainly doesn’t have to be!

Visibility is key. The more you—and your book— can get out in the public eye, the better. Watch for opportunities to share your story and pay special attention to upcoming community festivals and niche areas that support the themes of your book.

Aim for both in-person and virtual events to expand your reach. Local school or library talks, book fairs, online book clubs, Facebook live author events, podcasts...there are so many options. Mix it up!

Make it fun! An interactive Q & A, a game of Two Truths and a Lie about your book and writing life, food and drinks that match the themes or time period of your story, a hint about the next project you’re working on…and, of course, a door prize to close out the event! Everyone loves door prizes. :)

Readers love to meet their favorite authors.

Authors love to meet the readers who enjoy their books.

Win-win!

3. Community
Connect where you live.
It really is as simple as that.

Instead of focusing on bookstores across the globe (although those are exciting, too!), focus on the bookstore across town or in the next city over…or the indie bookstores scattered around your state and your neighboring states! Yes, those are all considered “local!” :)

Connect with the people you see at the grocery store, the gym, the pharmacy, or the library. Your postal worker. Your hair stylist. Your dentist. Your neighbors. The bank teller you see every few months. The coffee shop barista you see every week (every day? haha!)

These are the people of your community! And what better way to build community than to support your community?

Recently, I was mailing copies of my book out to the winners of a giveaway contest. My wonderful postal worker was helping me and politely inquired about my book. She was an acquaintance; my son had graduated with her daughter. She was so excited that she immediately bought two copies and made me feel like an honest-to-God celebrity the way she was carrying on and appreciating a signed, personalized copy.

Such a great reminder…the community grapevine is stronger than any email list! :)

4. Digital Media
Yes, this is a BIGGIE! Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Substack, author website, email newsletters, Blue Sky, TikTok, YouTube...and the list goes on.

Virtual platforms and social media truly are a digital highway, connecting you around the world…instantly! With the click of a button, you can share and interact in another time zone, state or country. Our reach has never been further! And that’s fantastic...but be cautious.

Book scams are running rampant right now! That old adage, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” has become my daily mantra. You can become “friends”with a single click, but ensuring the person is actually who they say they are and not a bot, AI, or scammer is not nearly as easy. :( (Somehow, I just don’t believe Stephen King is emailing me because he’s a fellow lonely writer and wants to connect, haha!)

So how to keep the balance? Absolutely keep updating your website, publishing your Substack posts, and sending email blasts with fun book announcements—scream it far and wide, to every corner of the internet and beyond!

But also don’t be afraid to pull back and direct some energy on fostering personal connections and authentic author relationships in smaller, focused groups on social media. Find your tribe. Find that niche group of like-minded individuals and start building those connections. Before long, you’ll become an endless source of inspiration and support to each other as you empower, mentor, and grow together. :)

So what do you think?
Ready to start expanding your author reach?
Call your sister.
Or cousin.
Or best friend.
Or sister’s best friend’s cousin!
Then Connect Four or more…and you’ll be on your way!

Author Spotlight

Meet Kim Danielson!

Kim is the author of a fantastic memoir, PIECE BY PIECE: A LIFE REMEMBERED THROUGH THINGS LOST—a very powerful story about overcoming the loss of precious keepsakes and heirlooms, and the people and memories they represent, after a home burglary. Offering a new perspective on material possessions, this book will empower readers to take charge of their own legacies, one thing at a time. Congrats, Kim, on an amazing debut—thank you for courageously sharing this heartfelt story of love, loss, and the true meaning of “things.”

I first met Kim through a writing program, The Book Incubator, when she was working on this book. Kim is an extremely talented writer and her ability to tell a deeply personal, emotionally-charged story with humor, grace, and thoughtful reflection is so inspiring. Kim practiced law on both ends of the spectrum, first as a public defender and then as a corporate attorney. In 2019, after the loss of her mother, she founded a nonprofit organization to support teachers impacted by cancer. In all her work, she has witnessed countless examples of transformation stemming from loss and beauty for ashes trades. This kind of restoration is a major undercurrent in her writing. She also writes a weekly Substack called The Unexpected Sacred, where she reflects on the untold stories of objects. She lives in Denver with her husband and three sons. Kim is a wonderful person and a fantastic writer—I feel so grateful to have met her! :)

Want a sneak peek? Here’s the “back cover blurb” of PIECE BY PIECE: A LIFE REMEMBERED THROUGH THINGS LOST:

“A fresh take on the loss memoir, Piece by Piece follows a middle-aged mother forced to reconcile the theft of precious keepsakes with the memories and people the items represent.

If things are “just things,” why does it hurt so deeply when we lose them?

When a home burglary strips Kim Danielson of heirlooms and other special keepsakes, she loses more than the items themselves. She is also robbed of tangible connections to her history, and physical reminders of loved ones who have died—igniting grief both old and new. Feeling the weight of disappointment for future generations who cannot inherit a piece of her family’s legacy, Kim creates a new and lasting heirloom, one that can never be stolen.

Perfect for anyone who has ever lost anything of meaningful value, this book provides solace and a new perspective on material possessions. A practical template for preserving a legacy with or without artifacts, Piece by Piece offers a unique take on loss through the lens of stolen objects and invites readers to tell the stories of their lives by telling the stories of their things.”

Sounds like an awesome book, doesn’t it? I loved it! If you’d like a copy of your own, you can use the links below to order from The Tattered Cover, Kim’s favorite Indie bookstore, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, or whichever Independent bookstore you prefer. Pick up your copy today—you won’t be disappointed! :)

The Tattered Cover
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

You can follow Kim on Instagram and Facebook. Then pop over to her website to learn more about her book and writing journey. Enjoy!

Happy Reading!

News & Upcoming Events

I’m excited to announce that I will be hosting a kids’ writing workshop: Dream It! Plan It! Write it! at the Lakeside Literary Festival in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on August 22nd! Bring the kids for a fun writing workshop and spend the day in Lake Geneva. :)

And check out the amazing line up of authors! There will be author interviews, an author panel, an author fair, and the keynote speaker: Hannah Morrissey! Woo-hoo! Hannah is the best-selling author of The Black Harbor Series—crime thrillers at their best. She is both an amazing writer and an engaging speaker, so you won’t want to miss this!

Have you picked up a copy of Premonition: The Gift yet? If not, feel free to order from one of the links below.

Black Rose Writing
Rosalee Book Boutique
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Thank you so much for your support. :)
Stay tuned for other fun, book-focused events throughout 2026!

Happy reading,

EC Quinn
Children and Adult Author

How are things in your neck of the woods?

Me? I just threw out a newsletter. The whole thing. I’d been working on it for a couple weeks (clue #1), kept thinking “I’ll really get into this soon,” (clue #2), but continued to struggle, forcing every. single. word. (clue #3).

So I scrapped it. And instantly felt a flood of relief, tinged with panic about meeting my newletter’s “send” deadline, but also edged with, dare I say, freedom?

I could start over.

I could write what felt natural, exciting, and…fun.

It made me think of my daughter. She’s getting married next month (so exciting!), but last week she moved to a new state, and yesterday she started a new job with a new architectural firm.

She’s starting over in a totally new area with projects better aligned to her interests and in a working environment that, from all communication and insights thus far, appears to provide the positive, supportive environment she’s been seeking.

Isn’t that what we’re all looking for?

In our writing and our lives? Positivity. Joy. Excitement. Challenges. Growth. Curiosity…and the ability to make a difference in the world, even if it’s just in our tiny corner of it.

THAT, I realized, was the problem with my doomed newsletter—it didn’t check ANY of those boxes. It was a slog; it lacked excitement and energy and was disinteresting to me. (Disinteresting to the author! Can you even imagine what it would have been to the reader? Shudder.)

But that’s the freedom of starting over. Being able to begin fresh, with new ideas—to choose a different direction, a new environment, a change of pace.

Yet, so often, close on the heels of that freedom of choice lurks the uglies: anxiety, imposter syndrome, decision paralysis, self-doubt, overwhelm, fear...and the list goes on. Nothing can slay excitement as quickly as a doom & gloom-infused “reality check,” knocking you down and burying your dreams.

Start over, anyway.

It was 100 degrees all last week. High humidity; no air. Average temperatures this time of year in Wisconsin are supposed to be high 70’s-low 80’s. This was NOT that.

We were cooking. Burning up the second we dared to step outside to get the mail, fill the bird feeders, or, heaven forbid, go for a walk. It was miserable!

But it made me appreciate the late-week thunderstorms that rolled through: huge gusty winds, sheets of rain, roiling black and grey clouds…and the utter relief of a cool breeze.

The struggle before the joy.

Not unlike my failed newsletter. Trying to force that newsletter had burned me out. I lacked motivation or drive to work on it. I felt frustrated and overwhelmed—hating my project yet panicked by the publication deadline creeping ever closer.

And that feeling started to seep into my other writing until I (finally!) recognized it for what it was: a temporary pothole on my much longer writing journey. I could sink into that hole and stay stuck…or I could make a change. Choose another path. A better path. In this case, a better topic. :)

I just needed a restart.

When all the clues line up ( I had 3 very obvious clues! ), showing you the path you’re on isn’t working, listen. Pivot. Take the detour. Give yourself time to…Reflect. Plan. Dream. Organize.

Return to the roots that let you grow, not the ones that hold you down. And, as you move along your new path, don’t be afraid to shift and pivot again…and again…and again. Your future self will thank you.

Remember: “As long as you’re still alive, you always have the chance to start again.” (Love this, Emily Acker!)

So what will you start? When you’re fresh and ready and bursting at the seams with excitement and unbridled inspiration?

That blank canvas awaits…so be brave and get to it!

You can rest when you’re dead. :)

Author Spotlight

Meet Lorelai Tarlow, an award-winning romance writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She currently has two new releases: RESA DROPS A STITCH, and THE 12 TROPES OF CHRISTMAS—both are book 1 in 2-book series! Congrats, Lorelai, on these two fun novels. :)

I recently met Lorelai through our shared literary agent—Terrie Wolf of AKA Literary Management. Lorelai is a fantastic writer and storyteller, and I love her enlightening, informative blog posts (check them out on her website!) When she’s not reading or writing romance stories, you can find Lorelai swimming at the rec center, watching holiday romcoms all year long, or knitting on her couch in the sun. Love it! Lorelai is a talented writer and a kind, supportive, and inspiring person—I feel so grateful to have met her! :)

Curious about Lorelai’s new releases? Here’s a sneak peek!

RESA DROPS A STITCH:

What happens when you fall in love with the one person who’s off limits?

Resa Gold loves three things: knitting, her sister, Ava, and Logan Russo. She’ll happily fess up to the first two, but her feelings for Logan—her sister’s best friend—are her best-kept secret. She’d rather cable-knit her tongue than face the humiliation of the handsome photographer’s rejection—and her sister’s anger.

Logan Russo is having a bad week—and a bad year. The only bright spot is his best friend’s sister, who has an idea that could turn his photography career around. When he enlists Resa’s help, her quirky optimism and her cranky cat, Bob, sneak into his heart, despite his vow to avoid serious relationships.

The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes for Resa to keep her feelings for Logan under wraps. If he wants her too, how can she say no, even if her relationship with her sister hangs in the balance?

THE 12 TROPES OF CHRISTMAS:

Six interwoven short stories of holiday romance make up this funny, heartfelt holiday collection.

What happens when…

…a Jewish Santa meets the woman of his dreams—and has eight dates to convince her to be his girlfriend?

…two rival bakers turn up the heat for Christmas?

…a disaffected billionaire goes undercover as a barista for the holidays and meets an artist who turns his world inside out?

…a fake marriage that ends on Christmas Day has turned real for both women—but they don’t know how to tell each other?

…a grumpy Christmas shop owner hires the holiday’s biggest fan to work with her?

Don’t both of these just sound awesome? Pick up your copies today—you won’t be disappointed! :)

• RESA DROPS A STITCH: https://www.amazon.com/Resa-Drops-Stitch-Unraveling-Romances-ebook/dp/B0H2R61ZTZ/

• THE 12 TROPES OF CHRISTMAS: https://www.amazon.com/12-Tropes-Christmas-Lorelai-Tarlow-ebook/dp/B0H351KFDL/

You can follow Lorelai on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Then pop over to her website to learn more about her books and writing journey. Enjoy!

Happy Reading!

News & Upcoming Events

I’m excited to announce that I will be hosting a kids’ writing workshop: Dream It! Plan It! Write it! at the Lakeside Literary Festival in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on August 22nd! Bring the kids for a fun writing workshop and spend the day in Lake Geneva. :)

And check out the amazing line up of authors! There will be author interviews, an author panel, an author fair, and the keynote speaker: Hannah Morrissey! Woo-hoo! Hannah is the best-selling author of The Black Harbor Series—crime thrillers at their best. She is both an amazing writer and an engaging speaker, so you won’t want to miss this!

Have you picked up a copy of Premonition: The Gift yet? If not, feel free to order from one of the links below.

Black Rose Writing
Rosalee Book Boutique
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Thank you so much for your support. :)
Stay tuned for other fun, book-focused events throughout 2026!

Happy reading,

EC Quinn
Children and Adult Author

The Finding F.O.C.U.S. approach:

F: Follow your gut
You know that project, the one you’ve been avoiding, the one with a deadline that’s been looming over you day and night, robbing you of downtime and increasing your anxiety on a daily basis? Yes, THAT one.

Knock it out.

And then slay procrastination by starting each day fresh: look at your calendar and figure out the priorities—embracing self-care, family time, and relaxation equally as much as work projects, writing deadlines, and appointments. Decide what MUST get done, what could get started, and what is fine to pass to another day. No guilt. No shame. Just smart choices.

That’s called balance. It’s also called intentional decision-making. Deep down, you already know how to divvy up your day to be productive, grounded, fulfilled, and healthy. Now be brave and DO it.

Your future happiness depends on it.

O: Open your mind
Drowning in the “same old-same old”approach to your work? Feeling unmotivated and unproductive?

Sometimes a little shift can make all the difference.

So change things up!

• Work outside,

• Write your to-do list (or your actual writing project!) in bright, colored pens—the Pilot G-2 .07 is my favorite! (Beware: this is ridiculously motivating!)

• Go for a walk at lunch

• Start and end your work day an hour earlier, adding more sunshine to your day

• Take the kids on a picnic in the park…then finish your work while they play

• Work on the end of the task first

Finding a new way to approach your project can shake things up and bring some flavor to your routine, allowing inspiration, creativity, and motivation to flow freely, while relieving stress and anxiety.

Who wouldn’t want that?

C: Clarity
Feeling overwhelmed by a client or coworker request?
In over your head with a new project?
Struggling with a “sinking” feeling in the pit of your stomach?
We’ve all been there!
And it’s a terrible feeling. :(

But sometimes that feeling of overwhelm is fueled by a fear of failure instead of an actual, unsolvable problem; the worry that maybe you won’t be able to figure things out and solve the problem. And yet, you have successfully completed many challenging projects in your life…why would this particular one be any different?

When that sense of dread creeps in, try this:

• Look at the “big picture” and intentionally name the outcome you are striving for

• Break the project or problem down into smaller, more manageable tasks

• Ask questions

• Seek additional help

Gaining a better understanding of what is needed—and what might be outside your realm of expertise—can help you develop a manageable action plan and stop feeding those feelings of apprehension.

Then, tackle what you can, and collaborate on the rest!
Win-Win.

U: Understand your triggers
Feeling bitter?
Resentful?
Unmotivated or lazy?

Ask yourself what’s driving those feelings. Dig deep...and then dig a little deeper to find out what is really bothering you.

And then make a change.

There is no “winner’s medal” for pushing yourself to reach crazy, unrealistic goals or to take on projects above and beyond your level of comfort and expertise.

Understanding what triggers feelings of unhappiness, overwhelm, and fatigue can help you make better decisions…keeping the focus on the joy—in the process and the journey—instead of solely on the deadline.

S: Spend time wisely
Sucked into the mindless social media scrolling?
Binging Netflix?
Staying up way too late and then sleeping past your alarm?
Dragging yourself out of bed, ready to start your day, only to find half the morning already gone?

Stop the cycle!

• Set specific work hours

• Put your phone on silent or, better yet, put it in another room

• Make a to-do list—and stick to it!

• Remove desktop notifications

• Set boundaries

• Take a lunch

Respect your time…both personal and professional.
Your future self will thank you!

So, what do you think?
Will Finding F.O.C.U.S. help you more effectively battle overwhelm and actually
enjoy your summer?

I hope so!

Author Spotlight

Meet Lindsay Bartels!

Lindsay is the author of a fantastic memoir, IMOGEN IN WAITING: A MEMOIR OF MODERN REPRODUCTION, which releases NEXT WEEK, June 16th, with Third Rail Press. A Zibby Owen’s “Most Anticipated for Summer 2026” book, I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy and it’s SO good! Congrats, Lindsay on an amazing debut—thank you for courageously sharing your story with grit, heart, and candor.

I first met Lindsay through a writing program, The Book Incubator, when she was working on this book. Lindsay is an absolutely fantastic writer and her ability to tell a deeply personal, emotionally-charged story with humor, grace, and thoughtful reflection is so inspiring. A native Texan turned Coloradan then Californian, Lindsay brings the personal into every aspect of her life. She has a BFA in Filmmaking, graduating with honors for her autobiographical documentary, and an MFA in Interior Architecture, focusing on sustainable design practices. And when her firstborn was a year old, she created a workbook for new parents called Your Baby Manual. Love this! Lindsay currently lives in Sydney, Australia, with her husband, their children, and two dogs. She is an amazing person and a talented writer—I feel so grateful to have met her! :)

Want a sneak peek? Here’s the “back cover blurb” of IMOGEN IN WAITING: A MEMOIR OF MODERN REPRODUCTION:

“When twenty-six-year-old Lindsay Bartels is diagnosed with breast cancer, she also learns she is a carrier of the BRCA1 gene. To not pass on the cancer-causing gene, Lindsay and her husband undergo IVF, only to find themselves with three viable embryos: two healthy males and one female—with BRCA1.

IMOGEN IN WAITING is the story of a mother grappling with an impossible decision—whether or not to bring a daughter just like her into being—while also asking some of life’s biggest questions: What makes for a life worth living? How do we live with our decisions? How do we navigate the unknown? Told to her female embryo, Imogen, Lindsay’s story is both human and God-like, about both agency and surrender, capacity and limitations—and how life is always happening in the middle of it all.”

I loved this book! It’s an absolutely gripping story—Lindsay’s real, raw, honest reflections, combined with her sharp writing and compelling storyline pulled me in right from the start and didn’t let go…and I was rooting for her every step of the way!

Sounds like an awesome book, doesn’t it? If you’d like a copy of your own, you can use the links below to order directly from Lindsay’s publisher, Third Rail Press, or from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, or whichever Independent bookstore you prefer. Pick up your copy today—you won’t be disappointed! :)



Third Rail Press

Bookshop.org

Amazon

Barnes & Noble


You can follow Lindsay on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Then pop over to her website to learn more about her book and writing journey. Enjoy!

Happy Reading!

News & Upcoming Events

I’m excited to announce that I will be hosting a kids’ writing workshop: Dream It! Plan It! Write it! at the Lakeside Literary Festival in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on August 22nd! Bring the kids for a fun writing workshop and spend the day in Lake Geneva. :)

And check out the amazing line up of authors! There will be author interviews, an author panel, an author fair, and the keynote speaker: Hannah Morrissey! Woo-hoo! Hannah is the best-selling author of The Black Harbor Series—crime thrillers at their best. She is both an amazing writer and an engaging speaker, so you won’t want to miss this!

Have you picked up a copy of Premonition: The Gift yet? If not, feel free to order from one of the links below.

Black Rose Writing
Rosalee Book Boutique
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Thank you so much for your support. :)
Stay tuned for other fun, book-focused events throughout 2026!

Happy reading,

EC Quinn
Children and Adult Author

While walking on the six-mile trail across the marsh recently, I was delighted by the sun on the water and a cool breeze rippling the surface. It made me think of kayaking and paddleboarding; sailboats and pontoons. Geese were floating gracefully on the water, little ones in tow. Such joy. Truly beautiful moments.

When I’m out walking in nature, it’s a time of quiet bliss. To think. To wonder. To dream. I often find myself thinking about the iconic Titanic—not because I’m a history buff, quite the contrary, but rather because of the story behind it: A big dream…and a big ship to match. Although the maiden voyage ended in tragedy, the dream lived on, a stark reminder of the power of courage, grit, and daring to imagine the impossible. That has stayed with me…it’s what I reflect back on every time I think about “impossible” dreams.

On a sticky note on my wall, I have this quote from Ellen Johnson Sirleaf—former president of Liberia from 2006-2018 and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011:

“If your dreams don’t scare you, they are not BIG ENOUGH.”

I love this! It reminds me of the magic in the multitude of “life steps” we are blessed with:

Births,

Graduations,

Weddings,

Birthdays,

Moving…new apartments, cities, states,

First pet,

First date,

First job,

Retirement…

And everything in between.

“Life steps” are fleeting moments that we wish could somehow last but are gone in the blink of an eye. Events—both the momentous and the mundane—that live on as powerful reflections of our life journey, propelling us forward as we continually face joys, challenges, hopes, fears, opportunities…all the things that help us determine what’s truly meaningful.

This is not unlike my writing journey.

A career as an author is also created through moments, life steps if you will, that build on each other—from writing that first story, poem, or novel to dreaming the “big dreams” of publication, bestseller lists, and book awards. I started PREMONITION, my middle-grade adventure series, over a decade ago. Book one, PREMONITION: THE GIFT, was released with Black Rose Writing two years ago this month. (Happy book birthday PREMONITION!) Book two is completed, and I’m over halfway through writing book three in the series.

I started writing my debut adult domestic thriller a couple years ago…fast forward through (many, many) revisions and querying agents, and now I’m repped by the amazing Terrie Wolf at AKA Literary Management. While we are working on next steps on the path to publication, I’ve also started revision on my “novel in the drawer,” which is super exciting and another “life step” on my author journey.

But when reflecting back on my writing, it’s not the book deal or even publication that’s the “be-all and end-all” that stands out. It’s the courage to chase “the impossible” and the milestones, personal growth as a writer, and connections I have made along the way that mean the most. The multiple small steps—literally over a lifetime in the making—all marching toward the same destination: life as a writer. Because, like the Titanic, that was the BIG DREAM. Always. Still.

But dreams are seldom straightforward.

They zig and zag. Twist and turn. Lead us where we least expect it…and challenge us to step up. To open our minds (and hearts) to the what ifs, the maybes, and all the magic: the secrets and possibilities lurking deep in our souls, whispering, “Be brave…try…what if it IS possible?”

My college running coach told me once that there are few things in life that enough time won’t fix. Back then, we were talking about a running injury. But now, looking back, I think he was talking about life.

So what if this is the equation: Time + a lot of work (a la elbow grease & sweat…maybe throw in some blood & tears) + a BIG DREAM = everything you could ever imagine.

Would it be worth it?

Or maybe the better question: how could it NOT be worth it?

So be courageous and dream the dreams—the big ones, the beautiful ones, the ones that seem completely out of reach. Write the book. Get the dog. Climb the mountain. Break out of your comfort zone and start your journey.

Solve life’s “impossible” equation.

One life step at a time.

Author Spotlight

Meet Joan Donaldson!

Joan’s essay “Sand” is published in the newly released anthology On an Inland Sea: Writing the Great Lakes and is part of another work-in-progress, a linked essay collection titled Lucky Stones. “Sand” is a tribute to the long-ago town of Singapore, Michigan, now buried under Lake Michigan's sand. Rich in history, science, and humanity, it’s a fantastic, thought-provoking read, and I loved it!

Joan is also the author of six historical novels, the most recent being Ae Fond Kiss. Interestingly, Ae Fond Kiss continues the story begun in one of Joan’s earlier young adult novels, On Viney’s Mountain, celebrating second chances and the importance of community. The beautiful, lyrical title comes from the beloved love song by Robert Burns, the bard of Scotland. You can listen to Joan’s favorite recording here.

In addition to her novels and “Sand,” Joan has published essays in The Christian Science Monitor and other magazines. Recently, the first chapter in her manuscript, Smooth Stones, won third place in the 17^th-19^th century category of Historical Novel Society’s First Chapter contest. Congratulations, Joan!

I first connected with Joan via our shared publisher, Black Rose Writing. I later learned that Joan hails from Michigan and lives on an organic blueberry farm. How cool is that? She also earned a BA in Geology and a MFA from Spalding University. To learn more about Joan and the emotions she poured into Ae Fond Kiss, you can catch a recent WMUK Art Beat radio broadcast here. Joan is such a talented writer and, even more importantly, a warm, caring person, and I feel so grateful to have met her! :)

Joan is a master storyteller and whether you read “Sand” or Ae Fond Kiss or any of Joan’s other works, you will be treated to beautiful, lyrical prose, stunning descriptions, richly layered characters, and historically interesting settings and events. Enjoy!

I loved both of these books and if you'd like copies of your own, you can use the links below to order. And if you’re ever passing through downtown Holland, Michigan, be sure to stop in the Reader’s World Bookstore—a beloved community spot since 1967, they offer a unique selection of books for all ages as well as magazines and newspapers. You won't be disappointed!

You can find On an Inland Sea: Writing the Great Lakes here:

Arcadia Publishing
Reader’s World Book Store
Bookshop
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

You can find Ae Fond Kiss here:

Black Rose Writing
Bookshop.org
Reader's World Book Store
Amazon
Barnes & Noble


Connect with Joan on Facebook, and then be sure to visit Joan's website to learn more about her books and writing journey.

Happy Reading!

News & Upcoming Events

SPECIAL: Summer Reading YA Giveaway! 4 Books/5 Winners—Check out the details and enter here to win: https://forms.gle/oY33wPYH5kJNcZW86 Good luck and happy reading!

MAY 30th, 2026:

I’m thrilled to be joining Connie Richardson, author of RAPID CITY SUMMER, for an author Meet & Greet at the About Time bookstore in Libertyville, Illinois, on May 30th, 2026! We look forward to connecting with readers, chatting about writing, and signing books. Hope to see you there!

AUGUST 22, 2026:

I’m excited to announce that I will be hosting a kids’ writing workshop: Dream It! Plan It! Write it! at the Lakeside Literary Festival in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on August 22nd! Bring the kids for a fun writing workshop and spend the day in Lake Geneva. :)

And check out the keynote speaker: Hannah Morrissey! Woo-hoo! Hannah is the best-selling author of The Black Harbor Series—crime thrillers at their best. She is both an amazing writer and an engaging speaker, so you won’t want to miss this!

Have you picked up a copy of Premonition: The Gift yet? If not, feel free to order from one of the links below.

Black Rose Writing
Rosalee Book Boutique
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Thank you so much for your support. :)
Stay tuned for other fun, book-focused events throughout 2026!

Happy reading,

EC Quinn
Children and Adult Author

There’s something a little bit magical about a new season…on the calendar and in life. Frequently, I think about the popular line from Brian A. “Drew” Chalker’s poem, “A Reason, a Season, a Lifetime.” The first line reads: “People always come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.”

I would argue the same is true of pets.

Admittedly, I’ve never thought too hard about this or taken the time to analyze—or overanalyze—the relationships in my life, human or furry.

Until now.

That poem, and specifically that line, something I had always found so comforting, inspiring, and hopeful, suddenly slammed into my head and heart with a clarity that simply took my breath away.

At the end of February, my sweet Loki dog passed away very unexpectedly after being diagnosed with acute leukemia. Despite immediate treatment, his health declined frighteningly fast—in a matter of weeks, he got sick, went to the vet, then went to the specialty vet and started cancer treatment, but he died before we even got the test results back to let us know exactly what we were dealing with.

But I didn’t need test results to tell us we were dealing with a monster that snuffed out a beautiful life way too soon, shaking my grasp on love and life…and hope. Loki was only 5 years old.

“But you knew how it would end.”

My sister and I were commiserating about the deep pain of losing a furry companion—she’d lost her 7-year-old mini labradoodle to prostate cancer a year ago. We were discussing the nonstop tears, the dreadful void that no one else could fill, and the reality of how much cancer sucks when her daughter, wise-beyond-her-years, said honestly: “But when you get a pet, you know how it’s going to end.”

So true.

And yet…

Based on a recent poll, as of 2025, pet ownership in the U.S. has reached an all-time high, with 94 million households owning at least one pet. Dogs are the most popular pet, with approximately 68 million households owning at least one dog, while 49 million households own at least one cat.

That’s a heck of a lot of heartbreak on the horizon.

It’s also a powerful declaration of love—and hope.

It made me rethink the last part of Chalker’s poem—“A lifetime”—where he talks about how lifelong relationships provide a lifetime of lessons: essential things to build upon to create lasting connections and a solid, enduring emotional foundation.

Maybe I had it all wrong. In the unconsciously selfish way of humans, I was thinking of “A lifetime” as being MY lifetime, wanting my pets with ME forever…for all the days of MY life. But in reflecting on Loki, I’m certain I had it backwards.

The gift is MY being there for ALL the days of HIS life—no matter how long or short that might be. Realizing that hit me in the gut: the responsibility, the challenge to make the most of a finite timeline, and the absolute honor of being able to share that kind of unconditional love with another is almost beyond comprehension.

Perhaps the same could be said of my writing.

The “gift” may not be the book deal, the awards, the film offer (but a girl can dream, right? haha :) ) Seriously, though, the accolades are nice, perhaps even necessary for an author’s career to grow, but I believe the gift is in the journey.

The days, weeks, and months alone at my desk writing pages and pages.

The hours spent revising…and revising…and revising…and still finding errors. (Truth!)

The understanding that the “novel in the drawer” might never see the light of day.

And yet…

The joy of weaving a whole story: people and places, twists and turns, shocks and surprises…it’s beyond crazy exciting this act of creating something literally from nothing but an image that flitted across my brain. Or a line I overheard someone say that suddenly exploded in my head, turning into a whole THING. Or a dream that wouldn’t let me rest, night after night. (Yes, that is how my middle-grade series, Premonition, came to me. The ONLY way to rid myself of the dream was to WRITE THE DAMN BOOK! :) )

Finding that “life energy” is what transforms the ordinary and mundane into something magical—and THAT is the joy. THAT is the spark that carries us through.

In writing…and life.

After handing in my revised draft of my current psychological suspense novel to my agent a couple weeks ago, I took a breath. What next? Lord knows, I can’t be idle for a minute, haha. (But true! ) So I started transcribing book three in my Premonition series. I began creating this newsletter.

And I pulled out the “novel in the drawer.” Safe behind lock and key for about a year now, I started reading. To my surprise, that “hot mess” I had envisioned in my mind has, so far anyway, only been a lukewarm stew of confusion and redundancy—with some compelling zingers of suspense and intrigue. Not too bad at all…for a first draft. :)

And I submitted an application to my local dog rescue. Shout out to Ma, Paws, and Me—they are truly amazing animal advocates…and people.

Meet Tonya.

Tonya raced into my house—and heart—in about 10 seconds flat…and changed everything.

I still miss Loki; I will always miss Loki.

I still love him with my whole heart, and, if given the chance, I’d still pick him a million times over.

But I’m no longer drowning in a grief and sadness that kept pulling me further and further down, a quiet that stretched across the floor, crept up the walls, and wrapped around my soul. Every. Single. Day.

Tonya’s life energy has filled my home, renewing my belief that love never ends…it just changes, morphing into exactly what we need when we need it.

I call that hope.

So…

Write the story.

Take the trip.

Adopt the dog. Or cat. Or both. :)

Play pickleball.

Bake bread.

Find whatever it is that creates your unique life energy…and DO THAT.

Even if you know how it will end.

Run free, sweet Loki boy!

Author Spotlight

Meet Hannah Morrissey!

She is the USA Today bestselling author of the Black Harbor suspense series (so, so good!). She also recently teamed up with New York Times bestselling author Elle Cosimano (Finlay Donovan series) for HOME FOR THE HOMICIDES, described as “a sexy, light-hearted romp, with a dash of merriment and murder.” HOME FOR THE HOMICIDES releases October 13, 2026, but is available for pre-order NOW. I’ve ordered my copy and cannot wait!

I first met Hannah when my local bookstore, the Rosalee Book Boutique, asked me to interview Hannah during an author event celebrating the release of her fourth Black Harbor novel, THE UNLUCKY ONES. Of course I agreed! (And enjoyed just a little bit of hero worship, haha!) Every chair was filled and it was a fantastic event. Hannah is a gracious, engaging speaker and readers enjoyed getting a “sneak peek” into the background of her books as well as her writing process. She is a very talented writer and, despite her dark, gritty, crime-charged books, a warm, friendly person. :) I feel grateful to have met her and she continues to inspire me.

Check out the “back cover blurb” for THE UNLUCKY ONES:

“Black Harbor is a tinderbox. Temperatures and violent crime have both risen to all-time highs, a new drug razes the city, and the scene to which Sergeant Nikolai Kole responds is anything but a rote homicide. In the back of a clubhouse lies a body wrapped in garbage bags and doused in bleach.

It isn’t just ANY body. Tommy Greenlee, the ex-husband of Kole’s former lover, Hazel, has been shot several times and left for dead. What’s more…the killer left what appears to be a calling card.

Elsewhere, Hazel is haunted by her memories of Black Harbor. Lured there after eight years, she returns to find out who killed Tommy and why. Now back in Kole’s orbit, their love affair can hardly pick up where it left off. They both used each other to their own ends before, which begs the question: would they do it again?

With the atmosphere growing more volatile by the second, Hazel and Kole call a truce, and as they work together to solve this murder, they will not only unearth Black Harbor’s deepest, darkest secrets―they’ll each have to face their own.”

I loved this book! (And the entire Black Harbor series!) It’s edge-of-your-seat gripping—Hannah’s sharp writing and compelling storyline pulls you in from the very first page…and it doesn’t let up. I was rooting for Hazel every step of the way!

Doesn’t this sound like an amazing book? If you'd like a copy of your own, you can use the links below to order from Hannah’s favorite indie bookstore, Blue House Books, or from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, or whichever independent bookstore you prefer. And while you’re at it, pre-order HOME FOR THE HOMICIDES and check out the rest of Hannah’s Black Harbor series—you won't be disappointed! :)

Blue House Books
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Rosalee Book Boutique

You can follow Hannah on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Then pop over to her website to learn more about her books and writing journey.

Enjoy!

News & Upcoming Events

I’m thrilled to be joining Connie Richardson, author of RAPID CITY SUMMER, for an author Meet & Greet at the About Time bookstore in Libertyville, Illinois, on May 30th, 2026! We look forward to connecting with readers, chatting about writing, and signing books. Hope to see you there!

I’m excited to announce that I will be hosting a kids’ writing workshop: Dream It! Plan It! Write it! at the Lakeside Literary Festival in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on August 22nd! Bring the kids for a fun writing workshop and spend the day in Lake Geneva. :)

And check out the keynote speaker: Hannah Morrissey! Woo-hoo! As noted in the Author Spotlight, Hannah is the best-selling author of The Black Harbor Series—crime thrillers at their best. She is both an amazing writer and an engaging speaker, so you won’t want to miss this!

Have you picked up a copy of Premonition: The Gift yet? If not, feel free to order from one of the links below.

Black Rose Writing
Rosalee Book Boutique
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Thank you so much for your support. :)
Stay tuned for other fun, book-focused events throughout 2026!

Happy reading,

EC Quinn
Children and Adult Author

Will you be creating a bracket? I would love to hear who you predict will be the top dog and win it all! :)

But have you ever wondered where and how “March Madness” originated?

Any guesses?

Here’s the scoop…

Way back in 1908, the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) sponsored an annual tournament of high school boys’ basketball teams. By the late 1930’s, over 900 schools were competing¹!

In 1929, Henry V. Porter, a teacher and coach at Athens High School and later an assistant executive secretary of the IHSA, wrote an essay titled “March Madness,” highlighting the immense popularity of the Illinois basketball tournament¹.

Illinois high school basketball became so popular that an official book and video were produced, respectively: March Madness: The Story of High School Basketball in Illinois, by Jim Enright (1977) and March Madness: The Official Video History of the IHSA Basketball Tournament (1989.) IHSA received trademark status for the term “March Madness” and registered the trademark “America’s Original March Madness.¹”

So when did “March Madness” become associated with College basketball?

Not until 1982!

No kidding. Although 1939 marked the first NCAA Division 1 men’s basketball tournament (with only 8 teams!), it wasn’t until 1982, when CBS sportscaster Brent Musberger used the term “March Madness” during the broadcast of the event, that March Madness became synonymous with the NCAA Division 1 men’s basketball tournament².

So there you have it...
A slam dunk for the history books!

Happy March Madness!

P.S. If you enjoyed these “fun facts,” thank the sources below for the great information!

1. https://archive.ihsa.org/Sports-Activities/March-Madness-Experience/March-Madness-History
2.https://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2021-03-14/march-madness-history-ultimate-guide

MARCH MADNESS.

In college basketball, it’s a time of shocks and upsets, underdogs taking down top-seeded teams, and unknowns besting reigning champs. A time of truly unlimited possibilities.

It makes me think of my writing journey: A debut author struggling to share her book in the same space with brilliant, well-established, veteran authors. A self-proclaimed introvert stepping outside her comfort zone to connect on social media. A serious perfectionist who obsesses over every single word. It’s a whole other type of madness!

What about you?
Do you share any of my struggles?

Are your shots at social media mastery bouncing off target? Are you missing that swish of exhilaration when your marketing hits the perfect group of readers? Are you running wild, doing all kinds of crazy stuff just trying to score points with a niche group in your genre? And still falling short?

What will it take to create a golden bracket for your writing?

Not as much as you might think.

Commit to 5 focused goals and watch your writing career catch the epic rebound—surging from Madness to GLADness!

Here’s My Top 5:

1. Schedule time for marketing & promotion
For many writers, marketing is the very last thing on the “to-do” list—and yet it is the lifeblood of a book (and author’s) success!

“But I don’t have time to market! I have a book to write (or revise!)” Did I say that out loud, or was it you? :) Marketing doesn’t have to take ALL of your time—but it does need to take SOME of your time.

So schedule it! Just like any other appointment, schedule 15, 30, or 45-minute blocks consistently throughout the week to focus on promoting your book and yourself as an author. It’s the fastest way to get to the championship bracket!

2. Choose ONE thing
What ONE THING would help your growth as an author the MOST? Do that. I know it’s tempting to do a little marketing here, a little networking there, a little social media every week or so, and a little community outreach every few months...but resist that temptation! A “little” ends up being a whole lot LESS. Consistency is KEY!

Choose one: Facebook, newsletters, Instagram, TikTok, podcasts, blogs…and commit to mastering that one thing. Be engaged. Be consistent. Be intentional in your focus and goals.

That’s your slam dunk!

3. Positive mindset
“Whether you think you can, or think you can’t, you’re right.” Thank you, Henry Ford, for reminding us that mindset MATTERS!

A positive mindset is WAY more than just thinking happy thoughts. It’s the true foundation to an author’s success—in writing and life. Thinking positively has a whole host of health benefits, ranging from decreased stress to increased immunity to illnesses. But guess what? A positive mindset also creates: greater confidence in your abilities, increased resilience with challenging situations, and improved coping skills for setbacks. So make your mindset count—and score big points for your writing career!

4. Celebrate your WINS
New book? Celebrate! Completed a draft? Celebrate! Scheduled social media posts? Celebrate! Connected with a writing group? Celebrate!

No matter how big or small an achievement is, make sure to CELEBRATE! Intentionally acknowledging that you did something positive to move your writing career forward increases motivation, improves dedication, boosts morale, and makes you want to DO MORE POSITIVE THINGS. WIN-WIN!

5. Down Time
Your writing and your author career are only as strong as the person running it. So how are you feeling? A little tired? Emotionally drained? Completely exhausted?

When’s the last time you TOOK A BREAK? Whether it’s ten minutes or two hours...step away. You’ll come back more energetic, focused, and productive. It will be time well spent.

Your writing is worth it. Your books are worth it. YOU are worth it.

Game Over!

Author Spotlight

Carol Lin is the author of a fantastic memoir, WHEN NEWS BREAKS, which was released in December, 2025, by Third Rail Press. This is a can’t miss—it’s SO good! Congrats, Carol—thank you for fearlessly sharing your amazing story.

I first met Carol through a writing program, The Book Incubator, when she was working on this book. Carol is an absolutely fantastic writer, and her ability to tell a deeply personal, emotionally-charged story with humor, grace, and candor is such a gift! But Carol’s storytelling reaches far beyond her memoir. Check out her impressive bio: “A long-time anchor and correspondent for CNN and ABC News, Carol is best known for being the first national anchor to report the first 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center. During her career, she covered the war in the Middle East, the aftermath of the Kosovo War, the 2002 Winter Olympics, and every imaginable natural disaster, from hurricanes and tornadoes to historic wildfires and floods. She’s received an Emmy, a Peabody, the Alfred I. Dupont Award, and Greater Los Angeles Press Club Awards for Excellence in both Investigative Reporting and her coverage of the Los Angeles Riots.” Wow! How incredibly inspiring! Simply put, Carol is an amazing person and a talented writer—I feel so grateful to have met her. :)

Here’s the “back cover blurb” of WHEN NEWS BREAKS:
“CNN anchor Carol Lin is at the height of her career after becoming the first network journalist to break the news of the 9/11 attacks.

A month later, she finds herself in the crosshairs of a Taliban sniper along Pakistan’s border with Afghanistan, a stark reminder of the sacrifices she made to succeed in a white-centric, male-dominated journalism career. For Lin, breaking news and the defining split second when lives change is a drug—and a love that her traditional Chinese mother warned would never love her back. But when devastating news breaks apart her own life, Lin is forced to question a career that demands everything, a marriage marked by infidelity and cancer, and the sacrifices required to become the mother her daughter needs her to be.

Told with fierce wit and candor, WHEN NEWS BREAKS is the story of a woman who has been places and seen things but still has to discover who she really is behind the headlines.”

I loved this book! It’s an absolutely gripping story—equal parts thoughtful and gritty. Carol’s honest, real reflections examine the roles ambition, expectations, culture, loss, and societal pressure play when chasing dreams, battling roadblocks, and coming into your own space. Her sharp writing and compelling storyline pulled me in right from the start and didn’t let go…and I was rooting for her every step of the way!

Sounds like an awesome book, doesn't it? If you'd like a copy of your own, you can use the links below to order directly from Carol’s publisher, Third Rail Press, or from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, or whichever Independent bookstore you prefer. Pick up your copy today—you won't be disappointed! :)

Third Rail Press
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

You can follow Carol on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Then pop over to her website to learn more about her book and writing journey.

Enjoy!

News & Upcoming Events

I’m excited to announce that I will be hosting a kids’ writing workshop: Dream It! Plan It! Write it! at the Lakeside Literary Festival in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on August 22nd! Bring the kids for a fun writing workshop and spend the day in Lake Geneva. :)

And check out the keynote speaker: Hannah Morrissey! Woo-hoo! Hannah is the best-selling author of The Black Harbor Series—crime thrillers at their best. She is both an amazing writer and an engaging speaker, so you won’t want to miss this!

Have you picked up a copy of Premonition: The Gift yet? If not, feel free to order from one of the links below.

Black Rose Writing
Rosalee Book Boutique
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Thank you so much for your support. :)
Stay tuned for other fun, book-focused events throughout 2026!

Happy reading,

EC Quinn
Children and Adult Author

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New platform, same newsletter

If you’re here, you’ve been a subscriber to my newsletter and email list for some time. Thank you! It’s been a joy to connect each month, and I look forward to staying in touch. :)

You will get emails when I share a new post, but you can also find my updates in the Substack app.

1. Why this, why now

I recently jumped into Substack and loved how easy it was to connect with different authors, book enthusiasts, and writers sharing insights on a whole host of interesting topics. My hope is that you will enjoy this opportunity as well!

By moving to Substack with me, you’ll be able to travel along on my writing (and life!) journey. You’ll be the first to know about upcoming events, new book news, fun pet antics, running milestones, book recommendations…and everything in between!

2. Who is my newsletter for?

I love meeting new people, so all are welcome in my space—with one caveat: you must be kind. Kind people are my people. :) More specifically:

• Writers (especially middle grade and adult suspense/thriller authors)

• Readers

• Animal & pet lovers

• Nature enthusiasts

• Runners

• Kind people who embrace a range of interests and enjoy reading and learning in a variety of areas

3. When will you hear from me?

Life is busy. Yours and mine! But you can look forward to a monthly newsletter and intermittent posts in between. My goal is to deepen connections—whether that’s through sharing fun news, introducing you to a new-to-you author, or simply posting a pet picture that makes you smile, I hope to bring something meaningful to your day. :)

4. Thank you for joining me!

I’m so glad you are here! Have a friend who would enjoy connecting with me? Please share this page and encourage them to subscribe. All (kind people!) are welcome! :)

Happy reading,
E.C. Quinn