There is a specific feeling to starting a new series. Even after 50+ books, it never goes away. It feels like sending your child off to school for the first time. You hope it finds friends. You hope you did more right than wrong with it. You just hope it’s ready.
Authors pour so much of themselves into these stories. My friends often tell me that when they read my romances, they can hear my voice on every page. It’s a thought that brings me peace. When my adult children ponder the future, I tell them that one day I’ll be old, and yes, one day they’ll lose me—but if they ever want to hear me again, I’m right there in my books.
My humor, my philosophies on forgiveness, and my belief in the importance of family—both the one we’re born to and the one we create—are woven into the fabric of every chapter .
My stories originate as a spark in my imagination, but they truly come to life when they brush up against my real life. They become better every time my husband or my children talk through a plot point with me. Over the years, my children have been part of this journey on so many levels. My oldest daughter worked as our graphic designer and photographer, and now my youngest, Serenity, is creating my covers.
Every point of overlap between my stories and my family is beautiful to me. I hope that light shines through both in my writing and in how I show up here with you. If my stories leave you smiling and feeling just a little bit better about the world and the people around you, my heart is full.
Welcome to Firebrook Valley. I hope you find a new friend in Drew and Bella.
Not You (Firebrook Valley, Book 1) Available for Pre-order now. Launches March 11.
With love,
Ruthie
