Do you have certain events that you look forward to every year? For me, it’s the annual Novelists Inc. conference in September.

On the last day, I know I’m going home with invaluable new information that will help the business side of writing during the coming year.  The chance to hear so many wonderful speakers and learn about the latest updates about the industry is a phenomenal experience. I take copious notes!

But there’s also the personal side—the delight of seeing writer friends from all over the country. People I’ve known for many years, now.  With Facebook and emails, many of us keep in touch. But the chance to visit in person is so much better.  Now I miss those conversations and I’m already looking forward to next year!

We were all at the Tradewinds Resort on St. Pete’s Beach for a week, then most of us left.

But just days later, Hurricane Helene hit the area and caused widespread damage far beyond Florida’s border as well. My heart is breaking for everyone who was in the path of this monstrous storm. Were you or your loved ones affected?

I LEARNED SOMETHING IMPORTANT!

I was at a loss over how I could help with disaster relief from my home in the Midwest. Which charities would provide the best relief, without consuming a large share of donations for their own operating costs?

Then a friend pointed me to CharityNavigator.org.

I zeroed in on North Carolina, and donated to the Asheville Human Society, Samaritan’s Purse, and World Central Kitchen, which all had 100% ratings. And I could easily donate right on that website, using Paypal (which always makes me feel safer than sharing my credit card number across the internet.) Check it out!

If you are looking for some distraction from all of  the news, I have a new book coming out on November 12th  in my Northern Pines Suspense series.

DANGEROUS STORM (not about the hurricane—this book takes place on the North Shore of Lake Superior) is available for pre-order.  CLICK HERE to learn about it, and to pre-order so you don’t forget! ?

Leave a comment on this blog  and you will be entered in a drawing for a FREE copy of DANGEROUS PAST, the first book in my Northern Pines series.

Blessings,

Roxanne