In one of my books, I included this dedication. “To my readers who have followed my story trail from Hollyhill to Harmony Hill to Rosey Corner and now…Louisville.”
I have the best readers in the world. They are willing to try all kinds of genres, and that’s good because I’ve let my imagination run down many different story paths. I’ve written historical novels about the Shakers and that Louisville novel, Words Spoken True, with the dedication. I’ve written stories that follow families through good times and bad. I’ve tried my hand at cozy mysteries so now I could add Hidden Springs to that dedication. I’ve even written several novels for young readers.
I just published a middle reader book, Freak of the Week, about a boy who feels like a lopsided giraffe because he has a limp. When the most popular girl in sixth grade starts making fun of him with silly rhymes, things go from bad to worse for Clay in a hurry. But then he meets an old man who isn’t afraid to try the impossible even though he has several physical handicaps. With Old Dan’s help, Clay learns that heart and attitude make for winners no matter the game or the score.
Much of Freak of the Week happens on a baseball diamond where Clay shines as a pitcher but not so much as a base runner. I like baseball so that made writing the story fun. I also knew a man something like Old Dan who was always hunting adventure in spite of having several physical disabilities. That brought Dan to life for me and I hope, for readers too.
However, I know nothing about murder. Thank goodness. But I still had fun writing my cozy Hidden Springs Mysteries. With the third book in the series coming out in March, I’m excited about readers coming back to Hidden Springs. Deputy Sheriff Michael Keane has a new murder to solve in Murder Is No Accident, while also trying to figure out whether he has any chance with the woman he loves. Right now the first Hidden Springs mystery, Murder at the Courthouse is a free download for e-readers and the second book, Murder Comes by Mail, is at a reduced e-book price for a limited time. So this is a great chance for you visit my little town where murder has a way of happening.
I based Hidden Springs on the Kentucky town where I grew up although I’m pretty sure no one has ever found a body on the courthouse steps. A few of the quirky characters every small town seems to have made their way into the story too since a cozy mystery needs a few smiles along with those murders.
Are you a reader who likes all sorts of stories? If so, I’m smiling and that dedication up top could be for you. Happy reading along the story trail!
About Ann H. Gabhart
ANN H. GABHART, the author of several bestselling novels, has been called a storyteller, not a bad thing for somebody who grew up dreaming of being a writer. She keeps her keyboard warm on a farm in Kentucky. She and her husband have three children and nine grandchildren. To find out more about Ann’s books or to read her blogs, visit www.annhgabhart.com. You can also join the conversation on Facebook. www.facebook.com/anngabhart
Ann Gabhart is one of my fave KY authors! So glad to see her spotlighted here on your blog, Shelia Stovall.
I love her books too Rose. When I visit her fictional towns, I feel as if I’ve stepped into my own hometown.
Thanks so much, Rose. Hope our paths cross again soon.
Hi Ann and Shelia! I love commenting on Ann’s blogs and seeing what’s up in her world! I like the Friday Smiles on Facebook, too. Love all Ann’s books especially Angle Sister. Ann do you plan on doing anymore like Words Spoken True? It is also a favorite!
And I always enjoy your comments, Paula. I’ve been sharing those first love stories the last couple of weeks since I’m doing my celebration giveaway for Murder Is No Accident. Fun to give stuff away. The next couple of books are historicals, Paula, but I don’t know that they are like Words Spoken True. That was remarkable history to made a very dramatic story for my characters.
I enjoy your blogs about different authors. I also enjoy their comments on their books.
Thank you for the encouraging words Betty. I am so blessed to get to meet so many authors.
Glad you dropped by to check out my comments, Betty.
Shelia,
Thank you for spotlighting Ann! I enjoy her books!
Blessings~
Thanks for stopping by!
Hi, Robbie. You’re one of those readers who has chased me through some of those towns I spoke of in the dedication and I do appreciate that.