An Exciting Week

Last week was a blast. Though I came down with a nasty upper respiratory infection and didn't get to celebrate as much as I would have liked, I still had a great time.

Here are some highlights:

On Saturday, April 26, I was headed to my Southern Magic chapter meeting and stopped in at Books A Million and my books were already there! I was alone...no one to squeal with...so I called my husband and then some friends and shared with them. I introduced myself and signed the stock. Funny moment: I was so nervous that when I signed one of the books,  it looked so spidery and terrible, I bought the book myself!

On Tuesday, official release day: Received three bouquets of flowers. One from several friends from a romance book club I used to run at Borders Bookstore. They also sent chocolates! Then my friend Jill, who was my very first critique partner(see my acknowledgments in RESCUE ME). And, I received a beautiful bouquet from my sweet husband. This was a huge surprise and was so very special. I felt like a celebrity all day long!

I also received emails from friends, along with photographs of my book on the shelf in several different states. So cool! And I received phone calls of congratulations from various family and friends. Another special treat.

On Saturday, I went to the Heart of Dixie Readers Luncheon and signed my book. My very first signing! It was a blast. My mom, sisters, aunt and some of their friends and relatives attended. I so love my family! I signed several books for family, friends and hopefully some new fans. And met some lovely people. 

And all through the week, I've received emails from people who read RESCUE ME and really liked it. One woman said that I went on her automatic buy list. Another reader said I was now one of her favorite authors. Oh wow! These emails meant so much. People who I've never met telling me they liked my books. That's so different than a relative or friend who you secretly fear tell you they liked your book because they feel they have to. Having complete strangers say this is an awesome feeling and I thank them so much for taking the time to do that.

Oh and on Friday, I noticed that Random House has my new book, LAST CHANCE, up for pre-order. The release date is December 29, 2009! Oh wow!

So, it was a fabulous week and there were a multitude of things that I didn't mention that were special too. Now it's back to work. I have a June 1 deadline!

Remember the contest of telling me where you first spotted RESCUE ME ends today. I'll be drawing four names tomorrow. So be sure to get your comment or email in today.

Until later, snuggle up with a good book and dream about sunny skies!