Hi!

Part of my NaNo Young Writers Group.  We ended up with about sixteen winners,

but I'm seriously proud of all of them. 

Hi Strangers!  I had no idea when I declared a blog break it would go on so long.  But ... here we are, a month into blog near-silence.  Quick updates...

1. Mentorship:  Working with my guru is fantastic!  I received the line edits a couple weeks ago.  After going through those and the revision letter, I've been exchanging seriously long emails with Susan -- hashing out whether to nix plot points or reinforce them, bring in new elements or cut some of what's already there.  Yesterday, I started first round revisions and got through about 50 pages, including a new prologue.  YES -- a prologue.  I was surprised too, but it works.  Once I finish these changes, I send the ms back to Susan and she takes another swing at it.  Three swings in all before our mentor/mentee reunion in April to cap off the program.  What's been the most helpful?  Seeing the things I love about my story are the same things Susan loves.  It gives me confidence. 
2. The Iron Bodkin has two great new reviews this month.  Writer/blogger Medeia Sharif reviewed Bodkin on her blog yesterday, saying "This is a fun MG novel. After visiting the author's website, I'm pleased to see that the story will continue with a sequel."  You can read the whole (really nicely done) review here, along with reviews of a handful of other great books.  Idaho Magazine's December issue features both Bodkin and Aalvor, my friend Laura Bingham's fantasy book.  Copies hit newstands today.  If you get to read it, tell me what it says.  :)  We got about 10" of snow and I can't get to the store to buy it! 
3. I seem to be doing a better job keeping up with facebook than blogging.  I'd love to be your friend, if you're a facebooker!  You can find me here or, at my author page, here.  Be sure to say you follow my blog so I know who you are. 

Bonus point:  If you're an e-book reader, The Iron Bodkin is on serious sale at amazon for just $2.99.  Perfect if you have any middle-graders getting Kindles or Nooks (etc) for the holidays!