As I sit in my study and try to think of something to write, I stare at the bookshelf next to my desk. It is my “bragging” wall. On it I have placed books written by all my dear friends at the Heart of Dixie. There is Linda, LJ, Kim, Lynn, Kira, Melanie, Rhonda, Lyn and Beverly. If someone comes to visit and sees the study, I proudly point out that these are people who are important to me. And yes, I brag that I actually know them.
Today was to be a special day for me. I was looking forward to getting Beverly’s new book “Dead by Morning.” I have read all of her “Dead by” series and I love the characters from the Powell agency. Now I find, like Jean said, how am I to read it? Beverly is gone and I can’t seem to find the same enthusiasm. Oh, I shall buy the book and dutifully place it on the bragging wall but it will not be the same. I won’t be able to pour through it and then tell Beverly how very much I enjoyed it. She is gone and the joy of reading her book has also gone.
As Gibran said, I am truly weeping for the loss of such a dear and wonderful person who gave me such delight. Her writing made me want to strive to be a better writer. But it was her grace and her charm that gave me more. I shall miss her laughter and her steel. She was the epitome of what we all wish to be – successful, brilliant but mostly just a good person. She made sure to speak to everyone, ask about them and their lives, and make them feel special. Who would not miss that?
And yes, I grieve because one more reason to feel delight has been taken. But I shall look in my heart and remember…
Know, though, that Beverly would still want you to enjoy the book, best as you can.
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm honored you'd put me on your shelf.
Kim's right. Beverly would definitely want you to enjoy the book. Have you watched the creepy trailer that Kensington made for it yet? It's on her web site and it's really good.
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm proud to be on your shelf as well. :-)
When I read books by my friends, I swear, I hear their voices in my head. "Blood Born" kept switching between Linda and L.J.
ReplyDeleteThe sex scenes can get a little weird. Rhonda sounds a little breathless and Lynn's voice has this sexy slow low pitch.
I shouldn't have told that, but I hope I have made everyone laugh. Beverly would think it was funny.
Aw, Cheryl. I understand, I really do. I know Beverly would want you to read and enjoy, but if you need time first, then take time.
ReplyDeleteThanks for putting me on your shelf! I'm honored.
And Jean, whoa, I love that! :) I think Beverly would too. :)
Oh my gosh! Just watched that trailer and it reminded me why Beverly's books scare the living crap out of me. But I'm buying the book anyway. I, too, have an HOD keeper shelf and brag on all the HOD authors when folks ask me about the books.
ReplyDeleteI will buy Beverly's book and treasure it, as I will treasure my memories of her. Her book will join the others occupying my HOD shelf.
ReplyDeleteRhonda, Kim, and Lynn I am proud to have you on my bookshelf! Did you notice that the other HOD members also have "bragging" shelves too? We are so proud of all our authors!
ReplyDeleteAnd to all of you, yes I will read Beverly's book. I know she would have wanted it that way - everyone should enjoy her brilliance. I will just miss telling her all the things I loved about her writing - that was part of the fun of reading this series. I enjoyed it so!
Thank you PM, Crystal and Jean for dropping by. And to you, Lynn, Rhonda and Kim - keep writing and supplying us with your wonderful words!
Beverly had so many fans, Heart of Dixie among them. I'm proud to count myself as one of them. Perhaps by reading her books, we'll hear her voice and, for a time, it might feel like she is with us again.
ReplyDeleteGreat post, Cheryl.
I am going to look at this book as Beverly's gift to me. I look forward to reading it and while I may be sad I will also remember how much she loved her art of writing!
ReplyDelete