Today is the launch date for A SHORT TIME TO DIE, my debut novel.
Of course this date will be very special to me for a very long time, but it was already a major date in my life because January 31 is the birthday of both my mother and my father, born two years apart.
My mother died thirty years ago. My father recently died in June at 93.5 years of what can only be described as old age. His eyes were old, his ears were old, his brain was old.
Dad’s vascular dementia was unrelenting. In the last months he couldn’t remember where he was (a nursing home in his home town), where he had been living the past four years (a wonderful assisted living facility nearby), or what he had for lunch, but he always remembered me, my sister, and my brother. From time to time he would look at me and say, “And you have a book coming out.” Somehow he could remember this little thing.
I didn’t plan for January 31st as my release date. I wouldn’t have even known how to ask. Without even knowing, Kensington picked the date for me.
I am often asked how I can write dark fiction or how many people I have killed today. I laugh and make up a number.
Giving this more thought, I realized that knowing that I was loved and valued has given me the courage to try many different careers and artistic endeavors. Even when I write about dark material, I can feel the love of my family and know that I am safe.
My parents were realists and did not hesitate to give me advice. But they also encouraged me to take risks and told me when they were proud and happy. I miss them every day but I carry them with me.
Here’s to my wonderful family.
I hope readers will enjoy A SHORT TIME TO DIE.
Congratulations and keep taking risks.
Holly AB Sweany
That’s the plan!
Wow, what a beautiful story to go along with your book! I love that one of the things your Dad could remember was that you had a book being published. Congratulations, I can’t wait to start reading it.
I’m glad you got to meet him and know him. I see so many things he made for me around the house. See you soon. Time to catch up 🙂
Wonderful meaningful dates for you, Susan. Will look forward to reading your book. Never knew your mom but your dad was a dear friend funny, kind and always interested in what my family was doing amidst the Greensboro community. You children, Susan,Palma &Rob made them very proud. Best to you. MArtha Niemi
Thank you Martha. Dad had such a wonderful community of support around him in Greensboro. See you there soon.
Congratulations, Susan!! Enjoy the ride; you’re off to a great start!!
Also, what a lovely coinciding of dates. It’s kismet!
Hi Marla – I couldn’t have planned this if I had wanted to. I know they’d be so excited. Thank you for all your support in our shared on-line groups.
Susan, we haven’t met, but I was touched by your personal story and the “gift” of your parents that you appreciate and honor, and the gift of imagination and story telling that you are now sharing with the publication of your book.
Thank you Robin. It took a long time before I appreciated just how special my parents were and how lucky I was. I hope you enjoy the book.
Congratulations on the release of your debut novel. That is so exciting. I hope you have many more publications.
Hi Grace! See you on the east coast some time soon. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment.
Congrats!
Sean D.
Sun “class of” 2008
Hi Sean. Good to hear from another Sun refugee 🙂
Congratulations – I will need to find the book! It’s always so very wonderful to hang with Susan.
Catching up on all these wonderful comments. Good to hear from you Charlie! See you soon.
Congratulations! That is a nice tribute to your parents…know they are smiling.
Thank you paying a visit Nancy. I truly lucked out in the family draw.
Thanks for sharing your family’s story. Great day for a release!!
It’s a special time, Susan. Thank you for taking the time to make a comment!
Congratulations, it is always exciting to hear and learn when someone follows their heart. I look forward too the beautiful read.
Cheers
Dian
Thank you Dian! I hope you enjoy the book.