I wish I could say I started writing purely for altruistic reasons”“that I planned to enlighten the world with some grand epiphany or hard-won life lesson. This is not the case. Like so many authors, I started writing simply because I had no choice. It was either write down the stories in my head or go crazy. I chose the former simply because this seemed the lesser of two evils.
But, little did I know a guardian angel guided my choice that fateful day I sat down to the laptop”¦or maybe I should say a multitude of guardian angels.
My first year into writing I lived a solitary existence. Fact is writing is often lonely. An author spends hours on end with the characters they’ve created, in far-off worlds of their own devising, having conversations with imaginary friends. No doubt most “normal’ folks lift their eyebrows at this process, but those of us that write know it works.
After my first novel was completed I wrote another, and then another, all within the comfortable confines of my own mind. I hoped to get published. I submitted to several publishers and prayed my words would one day be put to print. I imagined I’d occasionally hear from a reader who enjoyed one of my stories, maybe someone would drop me an email or write me a nice review.
This is not the way things have transpired. Not by a long shot.
Never”¦EVER, not in my wildest dreams did I think writing would lead me to the place I am today, or give me the opportunity to discover the many new friends I so dearly cherish.
During this past year I have been astounded by the outpouring of support, dedication and love I continuously receive from my peers. I do not write these words lightly. The women I’ve met are brilliant, caring, amazingly talented, and completely and utterly selfless individuals. They lift me up when I’m feeling down. They celebrate my successes, share in my woes, cheer on my efforts and give of their time and knowledge, all without expecting anything in return. I’ve received gifts”“incredibly beautiful gifts that left me humbled by the giver’s generosity. I’ve shared laughter, tears and frustrations. I’ve read stories of heartbreak and loss, friendship and love. I’ve learned, grown and developed my abilities in ways I never imagined. Without a doubt, I’ve been lucky enough to peer into the hearts of some of the most exquisite creatures on earth.
I recently had a conversation with a young woman who expressed an interest in writing. I get this a lot when people discover I’m a published author”“I think most of us do. I told her she absolutely MUST do her best to continue, but this advice wasn’t because my writing instantly garnered me financial independence or sky-rocketed to the top of the NYTimes Bestseller list. This advice came from a much deeper place.
You see, the truth is even though I never intended to change the world with my words, once I put them down on paper and sent them out into the universe, a miraculous thing happened. The world changed me.
That”¦is something I never expected the day I sat down to the laptop.
So, here’s to my guardian angels. To list each of your names would be a blog in its own right. Suffice to say, you all know who you are. My deepest, most sincere thanks for blessing my life, for touching my heart, for being my friend and watching my back. I thank God every day for introducing us, and am truly blessed to know you.
___________
AJ Nuest resides in Northwest Indiana with her loving husband and two beautiful children. She is the author of two published novels, and has a third scheduled for release early 2012. Most recently, Jezebel’s Wish, a Contemporary Western Romance was released by The Wild Rose Press in April, 2011.
Click to purchase a copy of Jezebel's Wish
Haunted by nightmares, tormented by guilt, Jezebel came to Redemption Ranch to escape the past””except now she’s stuck in the middle of nowhere with no redemption in sight. When her mother pushes her into riding lessons with local veterinarian Matthias Saunders, Jezebel balks. Sure, the doctor is gorgeous, but he’s completely obnoxious and knows how to push every one of her buttons.
Only her deep connection with The Reverend, a gentle stallion who guards her darkest secrets, has her agreeing to spend any more time with Dr. Saunders. Caring for the stallion is the first bright spot in her life in months, and if being around the horse means she has to deal with Matthias Saunders, then so be it. Surely a city girl like her can handle one country vet””even one with disturbing blue eyes. Can’t she?
Jezzy stopped. “I thought I was having a riding lesson.”
“You are.” He nodded toward the empty paddock. “Go in.”
“Go in?” Jezzy propped a hand on her hip. “You sure you know what you’re doing? Because it was my understanding that an actual horse is needed for a riding lesson.”
“Don’t you think it would be wise at this juncture to leave the understanding up to the professionals?”
Jezzy rolled her eyes. “You’re making this way too easy. Professionals? Please. Don’t get me started.”
“Why not? Getting you started is exactly what I’m here for.”
Jezzy’s jaw dropped. She didn’t quite know how to interpret that remark.
He held out the rope. “Now go in. And take this lead line with you.” Steely blue determination glinted in his eyes. There was no way he was going to give in.
Jezzy snatched the lead line from his hand and stormed through the gate, then turned when he closed it behind her.
He put a foot on the bottom railing and rested against the gate, facing the horizon. “Take the chair to the center of the paddock and sit down.”
“And just exactly how is that supposed to teach me to ride?”
He cocked an eyebrow. “You want out of the deal?”
Jezzy’s fist clenched tight around the lead line. What she wanted was to march back to the fence and smack his face.
Click Here to view the Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4X0TS6s2h-w
Contact AJ on the web at:
http://ajbooks.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/ajnuest
Email: ajnuest@yahoo.com
Facebook: Tattered Pages http://tinyurl.com/3qvxyn6
Wow – what a beautiful post AJ. Gulp…just wiping away a tear here : )
I so agree with everything you’ve said – definitely couldn’t have said it better myself. I truly believe you reap what you sow, and you are one of those wonderful, caring, supportive people also and deserve all the good things coming your way! : )
By the way – have Jezebel’s Wish locked and loaded. Just need to find some reading time now!
Hi LaVerne! Thank you so much for taking the time to read JW!! Squeek! I always get so excited, nervous — kinda’ sick to my stomach with anticipation. I’m so glad we’ve become friends. Thank you for the kind words, and here is to much success for all of us in 2011! Hugs!
I know exactly what you’re saying AJ. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine the friendships and support that would come from sending my stories out into the world. Sure, we all hope the eventually we can garner a few loyal fans and readers, but even if that never happens I will always write and submit. And I will ALWAYS support my fellow writers and friends. Thank God I found you all, as you’ve touched my life in ways I can’t put into words (pretty bad for a write, huh?)
~Sarah
I know what you mean, Sarah! The emotion is so intense, it’s hard to put it into words. I think that might be LOVE, which sounds even worse because we’re ROMANCE WRITERS! HELLO! I’m in the exact same spot you are, and am soooo looking forward to meeting all of you at RT next year. I just CANNOT WAIT to hug all of my new friends! Thank God is right, my friend. Thank God, indeed!
I do so admire your determination to follow your heart and write! I’m sure there are many people like myself who wish we had the drive to put to paper the thoughts and stories we have in our heads. In addition, I must say that I am very intrigued by your novel, Jezebel’s Wish. It sounds like it would be a yummy read!
Connie Fischer
conniecape@aol.com
Hi Connie! Thank you so much for stopping by today! I can’t tell you how wonderful it’s been to share JW with the world. What I gave, came back to me tenfold!
Beautiful Blog, AJ. I know exactly what you mean. And I’m so glad you never gave up on writing. Jezebel’s Wish is such a good book, even if it doesn’t change the world. 🙂
Hi Lilly! Thank you so much for your continued support, my friend. I am truly blessed to know you! Oh, and the great pictures don’t hurt either. 🙂 Here’s to much success for all of us in 2011, my friend!
What a lovely post, AJ. You’ve been so kind to me since we’ve “met” and I can only imagine the effect you’ve had on others following their writerly dreams. 🙂
It’s wonderful to meet people like you who appreciate others, and try to be an encouragement to others!
Hi Amber! You know, I feel like I’ve gotten to know you so well over the past couple of months. I adore your blog. The chalkboard in your office, the Star Trek shirt on your son – you have an amazing ability for the craft of writing. I can’t wait to read more from you soon!
I have tears in my eyes. That is such a beautiful post. We are all blessed indeed when we surround ourselves with people who love and support us. Congrats AJ, and here’s to many more literary successes!
Oh my dear, sweet, Telly! You know I love you soooo much! I’m incredibly psyched that I got to be a part of your path toward publication! Hugs, hugs and more hugs for your continued success!
How true it is! And I am more than grateful myself that I am counted among these. I’ve heard before that romance writers are supreme at training those who are following in their footsteps. This just proves that it’s true. This post makes me think of great words I heard from my son’s guitar teacher. He said, “I’ll teach you everything I know, and it’s okay because I’ll still know it too.” And whether you realize it or not, AJ–you have changed the world, if only just a little! 🙂
Awww….Amie! This is exactly WHY I love you so! There must be something about romance writers — that element of “love” we wish to share. I am truly blessed to have stumbled into such a fantastic group of supportive women. Many hugs to you and I CAN’T WAIT to meet you in person!
Great post, AJ. I know I feel my world is so much better because of you and the other writers I’ve met 🙂
Wishing you many sales!
Thank Jen! And I feel the exact same way. I truly do. I am so, so, SO glad we met. I just adore all my writing pals. Much success to us all in 2011!
Beautiful post, AJ! I’m reading Jezebel’s Wish now! 🙂
Thanks, Darlene! You know I loves ya, babe!
How true, AJ! Couldn’t agree with you more. We just have to write our stories and we are lucky to get so much fulfillment from writing them as well as such amazing support from our families, friends and colleagues. Great post!
LUCKY is exactly the right word, Alison. I am truly lucky to be surrounded by such amazing writers. Thank you so much for stopping by and here’s to many more years at TWRP!
Writing is solitary, but being in a family of writers is not! All the womderful women I’ve met online are so supportive of each other. You said it beautifully, AJ!
Thanks, Janine! It’s strange because I guess I didn’t realize how lonely I truly was until I met all of you! Thanks for showing me what an awesome place the writing community can be!
Right on, AJ. It takes a village to write and publish a novel…not so much that others collaborate with us, but they support us, give advice and share our highs and lows. Have you noticed, as well, how strangers support our writing? Every day, I meet people who are genuinely pleased to encounter a published author…they don’t know me, but they marvel at the accomplishment. We are surrounded by patrons! Thanks for your thoughts! Rolynn
I totally agree, Rolynn. Complete strangers will approach me and want to talk all about my writing. It truly is amazing, and makes me realize how when a person sends that positive thought out into the universe, it automatically comes back with your wish granted. I’m so, so lucky I found TWRP! And hope to be there for many years to come! Thanks for visiting with me today!
i would like to say i did read the book and i am glad Aj got top review the book she wrote is great and then i expect more form her and she will be a great author and friend and you can go to amazon and nor and check out what i wrote about the book
Thank you Desi! You know, meeting you is exactly what I was talking about in this post. It’s just amazing to me how generous people have been. Thank you for all your time and energy with Jezebel’s Wish. I truly appreciate all of your help!
Always surprises me when someone tells me they are trying to be a writer and want my input and advice! My best is to keep trying and not give up. I think determination is half the game. Good post, A.J. I agree, we meet so many friends in the writing community.
Hi P.L.! I am sooooo lucky to count you among my friends. I know what you mean about giving advice, but yours sounds right on the money. Never give up! Hugs and thank you so much for stopping by!
A very lovely post and quite a tribute to your guardian angels! Great except for Jezebel’s Wish – certainly leaves you wanting more~~ I hope it brings you much success.
Thanks, Karen! Jezebel’s Wish has already brought me more than I could ever hope for. Blessings beyond my wildest dreams. 🙂
Hi AJ,
Your comment got me all teared up. My best friends have also become writers since we have the most in common.
Barbara
Hi Barbara! I think it’s fabulous your best friends have started writing. What a testiment to the world of writing you must be! Congrats on all your success!
What a great post, AJ. You’re so right about the writing community. Lots of amazing people who are always willing to take time to help others. You’re one of them! Always generous with your time and advice and “paying it forward.” Keep up the great work and keep writing those great stories. 🙂
Thank you Joya! I’m so incredibly glad we met. Without fail, you are one of those that I know I can ALWAYS count on. Here’s to a great year filled with many sales, my friend!
BWAAAAAAAAA!! Just like your book JW, I had to grab the tissues while reading your blog post. AJ, I can’t tell you how so very honored I am to be included in your list of Guardian Angels. (Oh, Crap! More water works!) The way you’ve touched my life and had a hand in making my dream come true with MIDNIGHT CONQUEST is something a mere comment on cybersapce can only scratch the surface. I love you, hun! You’re the best and I can’t wait to see you this October and finally meet you face-to-face.
All my heart,
Arial 😉
P.S. Give Jack and Lilybelle a hug for me!
Arial, you are too funny. You already know how I feel, but in case you ever forget, just come back on and read the post again! You are absolutely, without a doubt the bestest EVER! I am so, so, SO GLAD that I met you. Hugs and hugs and here’s to lifting a glass of some screw-top wine in October!