I was stunned. You see, this is my fifth nomination. I've never brought the girl home, though, and my nominations have always been in the Inspriational Category. But I'd crossed over with these last three books and I now write mainstream. And, frankly, I just never expected to get nominated. I don't write about Scottish lairds or Regency dukes and duchesses. I write about everyday women in America who struggle to break out of society's molds. You know, women who want to do more than stitch and have babies. (Not that there's anything wrong with stitching and having babies. I love to sew and I love having babies. But if that's all I was allowed to do? Um, no. Shoot me now.)
Bottom line, my books are not your usual historical fare. Sure, maybe back in the '80s, '90s, there were plenty of American-set historicals. But these days? Not so much. And don't get me wrong, I love those Scottish lairds and hunky dukes. I just re-read Julie Garwood's, Saving Grace, which involves a fabulous Scottish laird. And Sherry Thomas's books? Ohmygosh. Love, love, love her Regencies.
But when it comes time for me to sit down and write, I'm simply fascinated with all the stories that happened right here in our own backyard. So this nomination? It was huge to me.
The next few hours of my morning were spent answering congratulatory calls, emails, texts, and social media posts. Things are now beginning to slow down. So here I sit ... with you. I have finally gotten dressed. Even washed my hair. But as for work? Not happening. Not today. Today is a day for popping the champagne cork.