Where did the books go?

Once upon a time, this blog was all about my boat, writing, and my novels, Last Exit in New Jersey and later No Wake Zone. These were the first in what was to become a series revolving around murder and mayhem. Then everything fell apart. It started with my health, subtly at first, then progressively worse. I was exhausted all the time, unable to focus or even sit at the computer and write for long stretches. The first two books were selling well, and I was moving along on the third as best I could, and it didn’t help when Sandy dropped a tree in the middle of our house, taking out my computer, notes, and completely derailing my progress.

Things will get better, right?

That’s what I kept telling myself. But they didn’t. Then they did, but I was so busy catching up on everything else in life that writing was on a back burner. I was offered a great job with fantastic and much-needed pay in a large marina, and I was sure as my health rebounded I’d be able to finish that third book at long last. There’s nothing like working in a marina for inspiration – you’d be amazed what you see on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, my body had other plans. My heart started stopping, and even a shiny new pacemaker couldn’t stop the progressive weakness in my arms and legs. Needless to say, I loved the job but I couldn’t continue. Another chapter of my life ended.

Depressing, right?

I wasn’t writing or blogging, and I wasn’t marketing in any form. I couldn’t explain why I’d disappeared from the face of the earth, and truth be told at that point I often wondered if I’d even be around much longer. It was the last thing I wanted to talk about, so I didn’t.

This is the new reality

I went through all the stages. Denial and isolation. I would’ve bargained if there was anyone to bargain with. Anger. Lots and lots of anger. Depression. And finally, acceptance. Yeah, I’ve got this weird invisible illness most of the medical community has never even heard of or understands, and I’ve gotta live with it. I’ve had to learn my limitations and how to work within them. And I got back to work on my third novel, already outlined and half-written.

As for the first two books, sales had languished down to a point where I had the option of regaining my rights in full, and I took it. I will be re-releasing Last Exit in New Jersey and later No Wake Zone, along with Evacuation Route, as individual books as well as a three-book collection, though I’ve learned my lesson. I’m not saying when. At least not yet.

This blog used to be all about boats and books. At this point, it’s about life, momentum, and perseverance.