Monarch & Michelle

At the end of 2008, I won a contest over at the great Nathan Bransford's blog. While I am totally aware that it was just a fun, online contest, it changed my life in so many ways. It opened up the pathway that led to where I'm at now, because getting that crit from Nathan made my writing better. So much better—I knew I needed help, and NB Bootcamp (as I refer to it, which he probably doesn't know [sorry, Nathan!]) was long and hard and yet perpetually rewarding. I am so grateful for that, but I'm getting off track.

I also met a lot of people through this contest. I met Sara Raasch, one of my CPs and dearest friends, who I dragged out to Utah from Ohio I liked her so much. I met Adam Heine, whose love of airships might actually best my own (And let's not forget the ninjas! Ninjas forever.).

And I met Michelle (aka: Lady Glamis). Michelle was a finalist in the contest, and as we closely watched the voting we got to know each other and just how much we had in common. Heck, we lived TEN MINUTES away from each other! What were the chances?

It's funny how I've found more friends through the internet than I have in my entire life. Michelle and I hang out. Our kids play together. We cook together and moon over cheese and dark chocolate. She is a kindred spirit, an incredible photographer (She took my picture there on the left. She always makes me look so pretty!), and an amazing writer.

And her novel, MONARCH, is officially out this week!

Don't you love the cover? I think it's brilliant, perfect for the book.

This novel has a special place in my heart, because it was the first paragraph that brought me and Michelle together. It is SO exciting to know that paragraph is now in print for anyone to read! So if you are looking for a different kind of thriller, check it out.