We'll start with the most important thing first...thank you.
As many of you know, Nikoo had surgery this past Friday. Your messages, emails, prayers, and kind words have poured in, and we've read every single one. Often, more than once. And yes, sometimes with tears in our eyes.
It's a humbling and beautiful thing to be surrounded by so much kindness from people we've come to think of as family.
Recovery is coming along, and we're taking it the only way that makes sense right now...one day at a time.
That little phrase has been on our minds a lot this week. And the more we think about it, the more we realize it's pretty good advice for all of us, whatever life happens to be throwing our way.
So, if you'll indulge us, here are a few things we've been reminding ourselves lately.
Be gentle with yourself. Rest isn't a reward you earn after everything else is done. Sometimes, rest is the work. And that's perfectly okay.
Let people help. This one is harder than it sounds! But saying yes to a casserole, a ride, a phone call, or simply someone's company isn't a weakness. It's a gift to the person offering too.
Look for the small good things. A cup of tea that's still warm. A dog sleeping in a patch of sunshine. A message from an old friend. A chapter in a book so good you forget to look at the clock. These little moments matter. Sometimes, they're what carry us through.
And one more thing, especially during October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month: if you've been putting off a screening, a mammogram, or a checkup, please make that appointment. Early detection can save lives, and taking care of yourself is one of the greatest gifts you can give to the people who love you.
Consider that a loving nudge from both of us.
A little escape to Harbor View for just 99¢
Speaking of small good things, sometimes the best medicine for a weary mind is a good story.
A little magic. A seaside town. A mystery waiting to be solved. And perhaps a ghost or two with entirely too many opinions.
That's exactly what you'll find in FIRST STREET, the opening book in our Harbor View Cozy Fantasy series.
For a limited time, through the end of October,
we're offering First Street for just 99¢.
If you haven't visited Harbor View yet, we'd love to welcome you. And if you've already met Skye, Ocean, Henry, Jo, and the rest of our slightly unconventional gang, perhaps you know someone who could use a little escape of their own.
STEP INTO HARBOR VIEW — FIRST STREET FOR 99¢
And the BOOK SALE is still ON!
Every book in our bookstore is 50% off, all October long.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and once again, we want to turn something we love—sharing stories—into something that can make a difference.
Throughout October, every book in our direct bookstore is 50% off.
Highland romance, Regency, cozy fantasy, Westerns, thrillers: all half price through October 31. And there's something more.
For every purchase, we're donating $1 to the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance (LBCA), an organization close to our hearts that supports research, education, and advocacy for invasive lobular breast cancer.
So whether you're treating yourself to a new adventure, discovering a series you've been meaning to read, or stocking up on gifts for the readers in your life, your purchase will also help support an important cause.
SHOP OUR BOOKSTORE — 50% OFF EVERYTHING
And if you'd prefer to support LBCA directly, you can make a donation here:
Thank you. Every act of kindness matters, no matter its size.
One little favor — please share the love
If this newsletter brought you a smile, a moment of comfort, or a reminder to take care of yourself, we'd love for you to pass it along.
Forward it to a friend.
Share our book sale with someone who loves to read.
Or share the LBCA donation link with someone who is looking for a way to make a difference.
You never know who might need a little encouragement today, who might find comfort in a good story, or whose life might be touched by the research we're helping to support.
And for those of you who've already shared our books, recommended us to friends, or simply taken the time to write a kind note, please know how much that means to us. Word of mouth is one of the greatest gifts you can give an author.
Thank you for reading. For writing to us. For caring. For being part of this wonderful community we've built together over the years.
We feel your kindness every day, and we hope some of it finds its way right back to you.
Take care of yourselves. Hug the people you love. Find joy in the little things.
And remember, one day at a time is still moving forward.