In a few days, Cardinal Virtue will celebrate it’s two month book birth! Crazy to think that after four years of writing it, it’s already getting so big!

A wise woman compared the process of writing and publishing a novel to that of child-rearing. While I don’t have children of my own, she framed it in a relatable metaphor. The most memorable part of the metaphor came when I found myself in the “dark night of the soul” doldrums of editing. This is the stage when you don’t think you can get your child out on its own to succeed because it keeps being uncommunicative and giving you attitude. And you’re praying to whatever deity you believe in to just get this kid where they need to be. Preferably out of the house. That’s all any parent wants, right? For their child to succeed?

Well, unless that child turns out to be a serial killer…

Anyway!

The metaphor served as a great kick in the butt to just DO IT, let the book baby go, cut the apron strings, and allow it to soar!

So far, everyone has given positive feedback for Cardinal Virtue, and I have to say that it’s great to hear my baby’s doing well! The lifeblood of an author often thrives on reviews. Which is why I am humbly asking that if you have read Cardinal Virtue, please leave an honest review on Amazon and/or Goodreads! Also, if you loved Cardinal Virtue and know others that would too, please pass along the recommendation! Tell your friends! Your neighbors! Your dogs! Your Cousin’s Husband’s College Roommate! I will be eternally grateful!

On another note, here in the Northern Hemisphere, we recently celebrated the summer solstice, the beginning of summer, when the days drag longer but somehow it’s August before you know it.

Summer time means many things to someone like me. First and foremost, it means school’s out for summer! I can now attempt to sleep in, binge watch more streaming shows, and… well, you know, write more.

As it happens, the summer solstice will also play a roll in the next book in the Eastfall series! Yes, there will be a book two, as I’ve been asked that question many times. You haven’t seen the last of Lara Nadeau; however, you will have to wait a bit to see her again. The next book — haven’t settled on a title yet, but when I do, you’ll be the first to know! — will center around Jennifer Cassidy, whom you briefly met in Cardinal Virtue. Prepare for Outlander vibes and a whole pie-in-the-face serving of Arthurian lore! I will be working on book two during July for Camp NaNoWriMo! But more on that in an upcoming blog post!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all the kind words for Cardinal Virtue. I really am a proud mama!

Ciao, friends!

J.R.