Today is the eighth anniversary of the birth of this blog to track my author journey. If it were a marriage, the traditional gift is bronze for strength and durability in blending two lives. The symbolism is also appropriate for the blending of my life in retirement from my first career in healthcare technology with my second journey as an author. When I started on this path eight years ago, I wasn’t certain where it would lead—if it would lead anywhere.
The path has had some bumps and unexpected curves as most of them do. But, for the most part, it has been remarkably smooth and extremely satisfying. Yes, I’ve had some dreams that I had to rush to get on paper so my characters would let me enjoy some nocturnal peace. I’ve had some epic rewrites and do-overs to resolve the legal peril I inadvertently put my heroine in or to be more succinct for my weary editor.
I’ve learned so much about publishing and the hundreds of things—big and little—that have to be just right for your story to see the light of day sitting on a bookshelf. I’ve become a more appreciative reader since I know how the sausage is made.
I have been blessed with early readers who help me work out the kinks before my editor ever sees the first page. My sweet, patient husband is on the top of the list of those pre-editors. And I love to see old friends and make new ones at my book signings. Thank you for making the effort to come out for my events.
There is nothing like the adrenalin rush of reading the email saying “yes, we’d like to see more” until you get the one with your book contract attached, then finally, the over-the-top-pinch-me-I’m-dreaming feeling of getting your world wide release date. I’m still delighted when I walk in the Barnes and Noble and see my books on the rack or the table of mysteries or Christmas books. I love it when Amazon sends me a notice of my new book based on prior reading.
My sixth book “Abby’s Gift”—another Lansdale cozy mystery with a happy-ever-after and laced with faith—will be published by The Wild Rose Press on May 18, 2026. I’ll provide more information when it is available for pre-order. If you are in the Tuscaloosa area, my book signing is tentatively set for the afternoon of Saturday, May 23rd. Please mark your calendars.
Thank you for your love and encouragement along this journey; for buying, reading, and reviewing my books; for inviting me to your book clubs; and most of all, for providing a reason for the journey to continue by blessing each step of my author journey with joy. I couldn’t do this without you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Enjoy!

Happy Anniversary, Kim!!! I’m so looking forward to Abby’s Gift.
Your books are wonderful–I’ve enjoyed each and every one of them.
❤️Caryl
Kim, you are an incredible writer, and you deserve all the wondrous blessings that you are receiving. I am proud to call you my friend. Much love, Lori
Congrats all around! How exciting! Wishing you many good blessings in your future endeavors! Honestly wish we could show up for your book signing up thinking that’s not in the books right now. So I’ll just cheer you on from afar Kim.
Dolly Brunner
Congratulations Kim!! Just love reading your books!! Can’t wait till I get “Abby’s Gift”!! See you on May 23rd at Barnes & Noble!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Way to go, 8 years! Keep writing and great things will happen.
Kim,
I continue to enjoy your books!! I’ve read 3. I earn points by using my Barnes & Noble credit card. Then I buy books with the points!! So far, all 3 were signed copies!! They are delightful. So glad you are still writing.
When I start traveling this spring or summer, I would love to include you and your basement train village in my trip. I will talk again when plans are being made. You are on my wish list!!
Johanna (Kinkade) McCoy
Happy anniversary to you and congratulations on your successful writing journey. Susie Black.
Your journey is inspiring! Congratulations on this beautiful milestone and all that is ahead.
Congrats, Kim. Another milestone for you. Keep writing and bringing pleasure to your readers. Meryl
Congrats, Kim
So incredibly proud of you. You have followed your dream and took us all along for the adventure. Looking forward to my next cozy read from my favorite author.❤️
Aww, how wonderful! Happy Anniversary! All the best, Kim. ❤️
Congratulations Kim! I’m so proud of you! Love you
.
Ann
Happy 8th Anniversary sister! So very happy this path has been a good one for you. I love you so much and am anxiously awaiting Abby’s Gift 🙂
Happy Blogversary! I’m glad your books made it into the world