.

Earlier this week, my publisher Westbow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, alerted me that they had submitted my book files to the printer for formatting, and that the official publish date of the book was 18th September 2019. I am delighted to reveal the title and its accompanying tagline.

My Soul Sings for You
Spiritual Peace in the Life and Times of Now

Publishing this 356-page book has been a unique journey that has challenged me as a writer and a person at each step of the process—actions that included writing, editing, selecting cover graphics, interior chapter graphics, creating unique captions to each graphic, as well as reading the entire book numerous times. It all added up to a lot of planning and decision-making amid intermittent periods of waiting patiently as my publisher performed their part in the production process.

The Birth of a Book

I can’t help but see similarities between the creation of my book and the birth of a child. A baby requires nine months to develop and likewise its been exactly nine months since I announced to the world that I would publish a book in 2019. I can hardly believe it’s true!

Since January, when I first announced my intention to author a book, I have shared an assortment of Sneak Peeks posts on social media platforms, highlighting random passages from a few stories in the book. I tagged those posts with #firstbook2019, #bookcoming2019, and similar hashtags—countless times.

It excites me to use the hashtag #publishedauthor on subsequent posts.

Many friends have asked about the book content, and I answered honestly and briefly. However, it’s time to dive deeper into the substance to reveal the theme and what you will read, but first I’d like to share comments from a couple of people who have read the entire manuscript and who offered to endorse the book.

I am so grateful to Ann Miner and Don Watts for the following reviews:

• Anthea Tripp writes from personal experience with conviction, wit, and wisdom. Her openness, honesty, and witness of her faith lend a sense that the words are written personally for the reader. My Soul Sings for You is a pleasant and easy read.
  —Ann Miner, Author, I Lift My Eyes, Bugs in the Baptismal, Buddy Finds A Home, Polly Possum’s Wandering Path
• We have been friends for 35 years and I never realized she had this writing talent! This is a great read, with poignancy, humor and faith throughout.
  —Don Watts, aka The Old Woodworker, Sugar Land, Texas

On the back cover of the book, you will find the following description:

Do you dream of a simpler life? Are constant demands and nonstop busyness stealing your joy?

Welcome to the life and times of now. Sometimes, amid the clatter of life, we sense a whisper from the depths of our being, imploring us to stop—to seek peace and restoration. We may acknowledge the fervent pleas, yet we’re unable to devote time and attention to our souls. As we juggle the demands and priorities of life, we disregard the spiritual essence of who we are, and whose we are. We neglect our souls. Unrequited, they thirst on.

My Soul Sings for You characterizes the world today. Valuable lessons about family and life in all its glory are gift wrapped in true short stories to awaken your soul and restore your spiritual peace. Refreshingly raw and real, these writings will evoke strong emotions that touch your heart. As you resonate with the storylines, you’ll laugh at the humor in situations, shed tears of sorrow at life’s losses, and rejoice in the triumphs. With your faith renewed, you’ll marvel at unexpected miracles. Your hope will soar to new heights. You’ll experience the beauty of unconditional love and joy.

There is no distinct beginning or ending to this book. Pick it up whenever you have a small block of time to read a topic that speaks to your heart. Be still for a moment or two. It’s time for your soul to sing again.

A few more points of interest for questioning minds:

• My local book launch will be mid to late October, date TBA
• I will offer to participate in book signings locally
• Books will be for sale via numerous online distributors worldwide, including
  • Westbow Press (Publisher book page)
  • Amazon (Paperback book page) eBook now available for $3.99
  • Barnes and Nobles (Paperback book page)
  • Christian bookstores who choose to carry it
  • Signed copies through me
• There are three versions: paperback, hardcover, and an eBook. The book retailers determine the price and discounts
• The book is currently undergoing a professional review—the results anticipated in 11-12 weeks. Fingers crossed.

The rapid transition from production to publishing has left my head spinning—it is very much like giving birth. Lol! One minute you’re pregnant and the next minute you have a real, live baby in your arms! You may be fully prepared for the event and be well aware of the due date, but once it happens for real, you are caught in a whirlwind of activity which is all new to you!

In this instance, it’s not a baby in my arms but a book in my hands—well, almost! My first order of books will arrive in ten days. It’s incredibly exciting, but it’s also a bit nerve-wracking. So much is unknown and this entity has the power to take on a life of its own.

My Soul Sings for You is already visible on some book sites and is available to purchase. I decided to make a public announcement right away—before you stumble on the book by accident! Meanwhile, the Westbow Press marketing folks are designing my website, and promotional materials.

I encourage you to read my book in whatever format you choose and I hope you enjoy the collection of stories. Perhaps something I say will resonate with you or touch your heart and mind, and help you find spiritual peace and a deeper faith. I pray that my words bless you, inspire you and encourage you to nourish your thirsty soul.

If you enjoy the book, please leave a review at the site where you purchased it. Thank you to all who have encouraged me to complete this book. Gratitude overwhelms me. Your generosity and outpouring of love truly humble me.

I pray this book glorifies God, and blesses you abundantly.

Oh, that my words were recorded, that they were written on a scroll.
—Job 19:23 (NIV)