Last week, I felt like I had come full circle with this wonderful experience I've had becoming a published novelist. I shared the stage with my dear friend Hillary Jordan (Mudbound, When She Woke) and Barbara Kingsolver. Barbara announced and introduced the new Bellwether Winner Susan Nussbaum (congrats!)--Her book should be published some time next Spring: Good Kings, Bad Kings.
I remember the first time I met Barbara a few months before my book was released. I was so nervous, and this time I was nervous all over again. But she's just so lovely and put me at ease. And she said to me: "It's important to me that you write this next book." Those words spoke to my soul! I am looking forward to the coming months--no engagements or other duties--just me and the writing. Wish me words.