Dear Readers,

First, welcome to all the new subscribers, and second, I thank all of you for being here. I actually started on this newsletter in June. (!) It’s been that kind of year. Well, I’m nothing, if not consistent, and what I said in the sign-up form is true; I’m usually writing and sometimes, I do a newsletter – and well, here it is! ????

Water Pie – Do You Dare Make One For Christmas?

“Whoever heard of such,” as my grandmother used to say.

In The Saints of Swallow Hill, this unusual pie is made and given to “Ray Cobb” from Cornelia. It’s an actual Depression era recipe, and what I love is on many of my visits to bookstores and book clubs several have been quite adventurous and made it.

If anyone would like to try it, the recipe is out on a site called The Southern Plate. I made it as well, and I really liked it, while my husband loved it. As you can see, it looks sort of like a custard type pie. Not bad with whip cream, or ice cream – your preference!

The Book Tour 

. . . was so much fun! At the end, I visited six states, and have done forty-six events this year. (last I counted!) I wrapped up the last ones mid-November. I love meeting readers face to face, it’s one of my favorite things about writing books – well, except for typing “The End” on the next!

A few photos taken this year while out on tour!

Signing at event in Pawleys Island, SC

Library had a really cool sign – this was in Denham Springs LA

This was Page & Palette bookstore display in Fairhope AL

Event at FoxTale Book Shoppe

In the beautiful area of Ashe County (September) at On The Same Page Book Festival

At the Long Leaf Alliance in October with “Burner Bob,” the mascot. ????

Louisiana Book Festival, panel of authors discussing “Strong Southern Women”

The Latest on the Next Book

As mentioned sometime earlier, I signed a new two book contract with my publisher, Kensington Publishing Corporation for books six and seven. Book number six is done and in the editor’s hands. As always, I’m excited about the story I’ve written, and hope it will resonate with readers. Like The Saints of Swallow Hill, it’s different from my first four books.

Here’s a hint:

Can you guess what time period this next story might be centered around? I don’t have a publication date yet but expect that it might come out in early 2024. While that seems far off, it’s really just around the corner!

I’ve recently completed initial research on Book #7, and am polishing up a synopsis. It’s going to be something to write about! Another lost history type of story, and truly mind-boggling!

Questions? Book Club?

Don’t forget, you can always reach out to me by email (deverhart2@nc.rr.com) or via my website and use the Contact Form which sends an email directly to me. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have, or work with you to set up a face to face visit (if in NC), or do a virtual one with you, and your book club. I keep all of my events updated on my website. Just visit the Events page for the latest!

Until next time, happy reading!????

Here‘s to the Holidays!!!

Wishing you and your families a wonderful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and good health!