I always wanted to write a book—something substantial with a real beginning, middle, and end. But despite the success of my first book, a collection of short stories (which you can view in its entirety by clicking here), I could never manage to sit down and do it. A few years ago some friends suggested my Christmas letter would make an entertaining novel. I thought they might be on to something. I haven't put down the pen yet. (okay, okay. I write at the computer. You know what I mean.) I've got a few projects in the works, and am having a lot of fun turning them into something real. Look here to see the Christmas letters that inspired it all.

Confessions of a Frog Kisser
Confessions of a Frog Kissser is my debut novel. It chronicles the 37th year of Sam Emerson, a vibrant and single woman who is darn sick and tired of kissing frogs. In one action-packed year she loves, loses love, loves again, and finally (it's about damn time) she takes a look at why her relationships never go anywhere. The story is only 50% autobiographical, but I'm staying totally mum on which 50%. According to my ten-year old niece, there is too much swearing and sex. According to my eight-year old nephew, there is no way Sam is a babe. I'll just have to let my readers judge for themselves on both counts.

You don't have to rely on the opinions of the under 20 set. Click here to download Chapter 1 and judge for yourself. If you like what you see, you can buy the whole thing. You can also get a range of Frog Kisser products, which make excellent gifts for your friends (or yourself).

Ellie Holsinger Mystery Series
Ever since I picked up my first Sue Grafton book I've dreamed of developing my own mystery series. That dream became a reality this year. My series follows the adventures of Public Relations executive and business mogul Ellie Holsinger as she battles high-crime in the suburbs of Washington, DC. That is, unless her panic attack disorder gets in her way. The first story, Bad Heir Days are Murder for a Gal, has it all—family intrigue, bio terrorism, hunky FBI agents, and great shoes. I've finished the frist draft. Next step is to find a fabulous agent who believes in Ellie as much as I do.

Miscellaneous Stuff
My niece and nephew are very excited about my books. Jake is determined to be the first person to read Kissing Frogs once it's published. We'll see about that.... Both have decided to illustrate the cover for my mystery. It's going to be hard to decide which illustration to use. I'll leave that decision up to my agent.

Cover by Jake (click for larger view)

Cover by Maya (click for larger view)