An Early Christmas Present

Yesterday I got the most wonderful news.  I was informed, via e-mail, that my novel Finding Grace had been awarded the Catholic Writers Guild Seal of Approval.

When I filled out the application a couple of months ago, I was far from confident that my book would earn this seal.  I had mentally prepared myself for rejection, knowing that God always knows better than we do what's best for us and trusting in His will for me.  If Finding Grace didn't earn the seal, there was a good reason--and I was determined to accept my disappointment with as much grace as possible...but still, I awaited the decision of the reviewers with a great deal of excitement and hope.  Today, I feel like I've been given an early Christmas present!

One of the big pluses about this award is that now, my book will be showcased in an upcoming issue of Catholic Book News, an on-line newsletter that is mailed out to over 500 Catholic bookstores and libraries in North America.  My publisher warned me back in August that the hard work for an author really begins after his book is published, when he is trying to get the word out to prospective readers.  Having my title included in this newsletter will be incredibly helpful as far as marketing is concerned.

I am truly humbled, and I feel so very blessed.  If there's anything under the tree for me on Christmas morning, that will just be gravy.  I've already gotten the best present I could ask for.