What a year!!!

As I rang in the New Year in the company of some wonderful friends I couldn’t help but reflect back to the beginning of 09. I never imagined in my wildest dreams the things that have taken place this year. Eight book contracts is of course a dream come true, but just as important are the many friends I’ve made this year. I’ve gotten to know many of my readers, some amazing authors, editors, artists, and publishers. There is a lot to be said by publishing with small, independent publishers. I can’t imagine forming relationships like I have this year with larger publishers. I’m sure it happens. Especially if you’re a NY Times bestseller, but for someone like me…who’s just getting started in the business…I doubt it. The camaraderie and support in these smaller publishing companies is truly inspiring. Does that mean I’ve given up my dream of being published with the big guys? Of course not…it just means I’m content where I’m at. If it happens, it happens, if it doesn’t, that’s okay. I feel extremely blessed just being where I’m at.

Which brings me to some wonderful news to start the New Year: I’ve been nominated in the P&E Critters Writers Workshop Readers Poll in two categories. For favorite author and mystery novel. Having shared that I invite you to visit the links below and place your votes for your favorites. I of course would love your vote…no pressure though…I realize there are many other talented authors and books that have been nominated. I just ask that you go and vote. There are several categories to vote in. You can vote in as many as you like. You’ll need to scroll down to the bottom of the page and type in your name and email address. For the vote to be valid, they’ll send you an email with a link to click on. Email will be from predpoll_noreply@critique.org. You have until Jan 14th to vote.

Mystery- Journey to Redemption
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/novelmys.shtml

Author Page- Anne Patrick
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/author.shtml

Main Readers Poll Page
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/

Also as a reminder, tomorrow I’m being interviewed by mystery author Susan Whitfield on her blog. I encourage you to drop by and say hi. I’d love to hear from you. Then on Thursday, author E.A. West will be joining us here on Suspense by Anne. So be sure to drop by then too.

In closing, I want to thank everyone for your support and for making 2009 such an amazing year. I can’t begin to express how much all your wonderful comments have meant throughout the year. And even though I don’t express it often enough, your friendships mean the world to me. Here’s to another awesome year!!!