The end of the week is coming closer and closer. Today I am handing over my blog to Pat Nichols. She is going to talk about her books and her journey so far as a writer. Hope you enjoy the read :).

During the spring, summer, and early autumn of my life this side of heaven, my high-school-sweetheart husband and I struggled and triumphed through life’s peaks and valleys. We raised two children, welcomed four grandchildren–one is with the angels–bought a Corvette, and checked off every item on our travel bucket list. When our kids were home, we always had one and sometimes two Black Labradors. Now our pets consist of squirrels scampering across our deck, deer traipsing through our back yard, and an occasional rabbit nibbling our shrubs.

One of my favorite positions during my twenty-seven-year career with an international beauty company, was public relations manager which tapped into my love of writing. Nine years after I retired, that love rekindled and compelled me to launch career number two as a novelist. Now I’m proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams.

My goal to become a serious writer led me to study the craft and connect with other authors. I joined American Christian Fiction Writers and Word Weavers International. I draw on everything I’ve learned as well as my corporate experience working with hundreds of amazing women from all walks of life, to create stories about women who face challenges in the pursuit of their dreams.

While writing my first two manuscripts—both now shelved—and attending conferences, an idea took root. A story about two women with different backgrounds, strangers whose lives were drawn together by tragedy and a long-held secret. My vision was to create an ongoing series centered in a southern town struggling to survive. Thus, Willow Falls emerged. While you can’t find it on Google Earth, a map of the town exists. On a flip chart. Drawn with a marker.

Three years after first typing “Chapter One”, I was blessed with a contract from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, Guiding Light imprint, for book one in the Willow Falls series. The Secret of Willow Inn released January 10, 2019. Book two The Trouble in Willow Falls releases November 4. Book three releases in 2020. By the way, lovable dogs appear in all three Willow Falls novels. A cat named Mittens arrives on the scene in the third.

One of the highlights of my new career is connecting with readers through personal appearances and the internet. I’m honored and humbled every time I read their comments on Amazon, Goodreads, and Bookbub.

Tim—my number one fan—and I continue to celebrate our fifty-plus-year marriage. We volunteer for church guest services, participate in two social organizations, and spend time with family and friends.

Connect with Pat!

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The Books