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Sunday, June 24, 2012

Connecting with Readers by Guest Author Heather Huffman


Between blog tours and appearances, the act of connecting with readers has come up a lot. It gets a quick mention as one of my favorite aspects of being a writer, but the discussion seldom goes farther. So I want to take some time with this post to talk about some of my favorite people: readers.

I knew going into this writing gig that I would be nothing without my readers – what I wasn’t expecting was the chance to meet so many amazing people. The people I interact with daily online have come to be my friends, and I’m forever thankful for the chance to be even a small part of their lives. Every day, I’m overwhelmed by their acts of kindness. I never tire of hearing their stories.

It was my readers that first introduced me to groups like Project Liberty and The Covering House, groups I believe are making a real difference in the fight against human trafficking. My readers got me through some dark valleys in my own life by sharing their stories and telling me how my stories impacted their lives. It never fails that about the time I get wholly discouraged, I get an email from a reader who brightens my day and gives me the boost I need to keep moving forward.

Every well-thought out review and every reader who tells their friends about my books is more appreciated than words could ever express. I could spend a thousand hours marketing and it wouldn’t have the weight of one reader’s honest opinion. As a writer and as a person, there are few things as gratifying as realizing you’ve made a connection with someone.

In short, my readers are one of the main reasons I continue to write. As long as there are stories in my head waiting to be told and readers who want to hear them, I’ll keep putting finger to keyboard, and I’ll keep being thankful for my amazing readers.

About Heather

Heather Huffman writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense with strong female leads who refuse to lose hope. She sees her books as a way to not only entertain, but also to raise awareness of the realities of modern day slavery. She shares the passion of her resilient heroines to make a difference and so dedicates both her time and a portion of her book royalties to organizations that fight against human trafficking.

Heather was born and spent her early childhood in Florida, but now calls the beautiful state of Missouri home. Her greatest joy, aside from writing, is to hit the road with her three boys for adventures unknown.

She is the author of Throwaway, Ties that Bind, Jailbird, Suddenly a Spy, Ring of Fire, Tumbleweed and Devil in Disguise. You can find out more about her writing and charitable work on www.heatherhuffman.net

About Jailbird - Heather's newest release:
A paradoxical blend of light and dark, Jailbird is a warm and humorous tale about the power of hope. Neena Allen has led a tough life. Born on the reservation, raped and unjustly convicted of murdering her attacker, she survives prison - barely. When an opportunity presents itself, she doesn't hesitate to escape. Presumed dead, she stumbles into a sleepy Arkansas town where she finds refuge with a kind family and glimpses the chance for a real home, a place to belong. But leading a double life isn't easy, especially when you fall in love with the town lawyer. To complicate matters further, a tenacious reporter gets too close to the truth and Neena finds herself on the run again. With a manhunt under way and her newfound happiness at risk, Neena is forced to face the painful memories of her past to decide on her future. Should she fight for her new life or give up those she loves to keep them safe?


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