I am one of the slowest readers in the world because when I see an unusual word, a unique turn of phrase, a new idea on the page, I ponder it. I’ve been known to read a book through twice and circle words and phrases of interest. This concept was introduced to me by friend/author/literary agent Nick Harrison at a writers’ conference. 

I am also a slow writer because I like to ponder my characters, location, and plot. To dig deeper than deep. I’m writing another Amish novel but it’s too early to tell you more—other than I’m in Amish country. I’ve learned that it’s best not to relate your story ahead of time for fear of deflating the story’s energy. I gleaned this concept from Becoming a Writer a book written in 1934 by Dorothea Brandt. 

More on my next novel to come! Ach, so much to do!

A common sight in Lancaster County.

Speaking of Amish authors, Linda Byler Is a member of the Old Order Amish church. She writes her books by hand because she’s not allowed to use the Internet. She is not on my newsletter e-mail list because she doesn’t go online since it’s forbidden by the Ordnung, the rules that Old Order Amish must obey. How do I know she’s Old Order Amish? Because I’ve been to her home in Pennsylvania and eaten at her table. A lovely woman and hostess who has helped me check my facts in a way that no one else can. Linda told me she writes her books by hand and that “I can’t miss what I’ve never known.” 

I was delighted to find that Linda Byler wrote several books that I had yet to read—until last month anyway. One romance novel I enjoyed is Who is Mary? 

Why do I love writing about Lancaster County, PA? For one thing, it’s an area I know well thanks to my husband’s driving me across the county many times. And it’s the home of my dear Mennonite relatives. And I love horses. I started riding at an early age, went to summer camp with horses, and took equestrian as my college sport. One of my characters from Snowbound on Skye (Amazon | Barnes & Noble) is an Amish nanny from Lancaster County. What fun I had writing about Lydia and her the fallout from her radical decisions! 

I hope you enter my Giveaway for a chance to win an Amazon $100.00 gift card plus one of my books! Snowbound on Skye or another of my books if you’ve already purchased a copy. US only. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, January 21st, and has three days to respond to my email.