About Me

Many years ago I belonged to a writer’s group. For some writers, that really works. For me, it didn’t. There I discovered an unexpectedly wide chasm between writers and readers. That surprised me. It seemed obvious that someone who likes to write would both like to read and also give astute feedback and criticism, better even than someone who just really enjoys the reading part, doesn’t it? I mean, writers struggle over word choice, nuance, tone, voice, and just where all those darn commas are supposed to go. But that wasn’t what I found. I chalked it up to wonky luck on my part and the difference between theory and lived experience. So I moved on.

I had a friend who mentioned that she wished she could have gotten to the book she was reading before  it was published because there were a few things she would fix in that novel if she could. And thus, the idea of creating a Reader’s Circle was born! Over a dozen folk have joined my Reader’s Circle and they are wonderful people who love to read, they adore a good tale and they want to be entertained. These are people who enjoy being challenged. A few of them love to correct every error they find and I am so appreciative of their talents!  My favorite complaint is “I’m staying up too late because I didn’t expect that particular twist to happen!”  Their grievances about how I’ve deprived them of sleep are some of the highest compliments I could be given. And we’re all so glad I’m a writer and not in a garage band. 

My readers circle friends are dear to me. My Innermost Reader’s Circle reads my works in progress—sometimes chapter by chapter. Sometimes page by page. We go out for long walks or to lunch or share cocktails in the yard and debate characters and motivations. They give me their honest feedback on what works or doesn’t, who they love or hate, and what grips them or leaves them dry. My Middle Circle read large chunks of the work that are finished or nearly so. I might have some loopholes I’m debating on how to close, and they give me wonderful insight into how the story moves, character development, and suspense. And my Outer Circle reads the novels that I think I have completed—until they set me straight!  And then I get the stories back from Alison, my wonderful copy editor over in Wales. Despite her wonderful tutelage, I am a hopeless case at those commas. Then my Outer Circle helps me tweak and adjust and tells me when it’s the right time to think about moving forward with the work into the broader world. 

I would not be the writer I am without my wonderful circle of readers by my side, so generously giving me their gentle advice and feedback. With much gratitude my friends, these works are dedicated to you.