In the books
Another April is in the books. Speaking of books, I am on track with my Goodreads goal of reading 60 books this year. I read five in April.
My April reading did not start off very well. My first read was so poorly written that I won’t name it. I picked it up at a library book sale last year. Sometimes even my tried and true method for selecting books fails. It had a pretty cover and a great premise but it was poorly executed. I couldn’t connect with the characters (I tried!) I finished it, but just barely.
My second read was Sweet Girl by Travis Mulhauser. Great characters and an interesting plot. Parts of it were a little gritty for my taste but I enjoyed the story.
Third was Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout. It took some doing to get this book read, lol. A Kindle malfunction about a third of the way through had me scrambling to my local library to borrow a copy. After a two day wait I finally got my hands on it and was able to finish it. I loved almost everything about this book!
Next up was a very nice Christian Romantic Suspense title, Dangerous Detour by Gail Pallotta. Lots of action and a sweet romance with a strong faith element.
I was treated to an ARC by one of my favorite Christian Romance authors. I love getting these early previews! Dr. Mallory and the Undercover Dog Dad is a fun romance with a splash of suspense. A solid five star read. I would not have expected any less from Erin Stevenson.
Between the rain and a lot of back pain (which are probably related) my plan to rack up some walking miles at the city park did not pan out. Miss Emma and I walked just ten laps for the whole month – about two miles total. I am hoping for better weather and many more laps in May!
On the writing front things are looking much better! I completed my final galley edits for Superheroes and am waiting for my ARCs. Release date is set for August 22nd!
I also received a contract for this year’s Christmas novella. If you like sweet romances, unexpected snow storms and wise and wonderful service dogs, you’re gonna love Chester’s Miracle! It releases in November 
(The real Chester!)
I had to put Blackberry Summer on hold again, but my first draft is about half finished. I’m still super excited about it
Despite some hungry, naughty deer, I have some good things going on in the garden. They don’t seem to like my columbine which makes me very happy. I like them enough for everyone!
I started with three or four slips of Lily of the Valley five years ago and now they are taking over the flower bed! They are so lovely and sweet, I have forgiven them for being a bit pushy. I gifted some to a friend but I do have a bit more thinning to do.
I noticed that some poison ivy has started to get a toe hold in one of my flower beds 
I have had some bad experiences with that hateful vine in the past. I don’t plan to try and pull it out, though that is the best way to get rid of it. I have learned that no matter how careful I am, the smallest encounter with it can lead to days and days of misery. With all the birds, bunnies and other critters, not to mention the flowers, I don’t use chemical weed killers. I found out about a natural week killer that combines salt, dish soap and white vinegar. Supposedly it will do the trick. I will let you know.
So that’s how my April shaped up. I’d love to hear about yours 
