When you’re here, my world is a lot less scary.
This was one of the first lines I wrote for Tommy and Brittany. I go back to it a lot because it stands for something I really feel grounded the series.
Of all the fear and loneliness and doubt, the ultimate connection between them was simple.
Their world was better with the other in it.
It’s kind of my safe place, too. My world became a lot less scary when I began to bring these characters to life. Tommy and Brittany and Jack and Stephanie came from a place in my life that was still full of optimism and hope. I had been through a lot of sadness and struggle and in creating their love stories, I remembered that nothing is impossible.
Bill and Julie came as a result of my parents. Their story of love and commitment was far from perfect, but there was always love and respect. One of the lines I use for Bill and Julie came directly from my mom when I was worried they were going to divorce. (I think I was 7 or 8).
“When you’re stuck, you’re stuck.” also “What you see is what you get.”
It was so true. Sarcasm and truth was always the standard in my house and it’s the standard in my writing. There are times I must laugh when I want to cry and there are times I am brutally honest because it’s what is needed.
Who I am doesn’t change no matter the company and I think that’s also important. Being a genuine person is important and trusting- what you see is all we have.
So, since creating this series and these characters, I have felt safe. I have felt like I have a voice in this world and I hope, more than anything, these characters have brought solace to some of you. Laughter at times, heartache at others and overall, a sense of comfort and family.
Moving forward, book 17 begins the end of the series. It’s been a challenging time for me as an author because I don’t know that it’s right. I do know the part of the story I have been waiting to tell for all this time must come out and it’s going to be a game changer. There are loose ends that will be forever tied and there will be characters who will inevitably have to end. It’s been a whirlwind of emotions as I’ve been writing and as much as I can’t wait for you to read it, I’m nervous about what you will think.
I will be posting a preview to book 17 soon, and I hope you are ready to get on the final rollercoaster with me.
As Brittany says in book 17
“You can live a happy and productive life and just like people with any kind of ailment; it simply becomes a part of who you are, but it is never all you are.”
I believe that. I believe in this family and what they can do. I believe in my readers and the strength you bring to the table. I believe in love and hope.
When you are all here, my world is a lot less scary.
I will miss this family I’ve grown to love. I’m anxious to see what is going to happen, and sad to see the end of this incredibly wonderful series, but it’s been a pleasure to be one of your many avid readers from the very first chapter, and I am hanging on for the next leg of your writing trip wherever it will take you and your readers!
Sandy has expressed my feelings exactly. I.Will always be thankful to the National MS Society for offering “Nothing Matters” as a free ebook. I downloaded it immediately. And the ride began. Although the end is near, I will continue.Robin, your write style is a favorite for me. I am hoping this will not be an end to your writing.