My post last week was all about not feeling like an author but something happened this weekend that, just for a moment, made me feel like one! Actually, it was two things but related to the same thing. Confused? Let me explain …

The Write Romantics anthology, ‘Winter Tales – Stories to Warm Your Heart’ was released at the start of November in e-Book format with the paperback following a week or so later. Several family members and friends have purchased a copy. On Friday, my daughter’s childminder handed me two copies (one for her and one for her daughter) and asked me to sign them over the weekend. I was very flattered that (a) she’d bought two and (b) she wanted me to sign them.

Then, on Saturday, we visited my mum to celebrate her 70th birthday. She had three copies for me to sign; hers and two she’d bought as Christmas presents for friends. I felt very special sat at the table with my little pile in front of me and my pen poised.

I’d signed her copy of the Whitby Abbey Anthology and also one bought by my best friend from school, Susan, but there was something about signing the Winter Tales Anthology that felt more special. Maybe it’s because I’d been actively involved in pulling it together, maybe it’s because it is written in my pen name, or maybe it’s simply because, with a publishing deal under my belt, it finally is starting to sink in.

At the time of writing, we have 6 reviews on the book – 3 x 5-star and 3 x 4-star which is amazing. I’d expect that, as we have different genres and types of stories, it would be a struggle to get 5-star reviews so I’m thrilled we have three! Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far and, in doing so, given money to two brilliant causes (Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Cancer Research Trust).

Jessica xx

PS Short post – miracle or what?!