A local author who writes under the pseudonym Marsha Meadows has recently released the second book in a planned trilogy; Jessica Awakens
Meadows said while now a veteran writer in the respect she had book one of the trilogy; 'Jessica's Perception', released last September, writing did not become easier for her latest release.
"It did not seem any easier or more difficult than the first as each covers
a separate time in Jessica's life and a story had to be woven in both to meld with each other as well as the third one to follow," she said.
But experience may have helped in terms of Meadows' writing.
"Yes I do believe the quality may be of somewhat better writing," she said. "Experience in anything one does only advances their forward fun. Writing to me comes easy -- so I find -- the first led to a less challenged way to write the second."
Meadows said the new book was always something she knew she would release once the first book came off the press.
"It always was the plan to write the second as is the plan to continue into the third," she said.
It helped though that 'Jessica's Perception' was well received by readers.
"Finding that the first was received so well helped to build my self-confidence, allowing me to continue and enjoy writing as well," offered Meadows. "The positive reviews also may lead me to the purchase of a new and larger bra-- as my chest often swells with pride full size."
Meadows said the response of readers to book one is both rewarding, and unexpected.
"You ask-- am I surprised-- Oh heavens yes," she said. "I was and remain, surprised by the response of the first novel and would be lying if I slightly suggest it did not make me happy. Writing is something I have always wanted to accomplish and finding others enjoy my work with such satisfaction simply drives me to want to write more."
So what will readers find in latest offering?
The book cover provides some insight.
"Jessica's story began in the early 1950's as she grew through hardships of a small, country lifestyle. Where often, the happenings caused the child to acquire her self-protection of an imaginary shroud. She kept it tightly wrapped about her person warding off the unkind words and happenings about her. She hid behind her long locks of hair so that she may pass unseen. The cloak of comfort guided her through an era of growth where she harboured childish, romantic ideals of a life she longed for.
"From a child to a teenager and on into an adult life, with her knight in shining armour, Jessica carried it with her. Would this knight guide Jessica in her thinking and perhaps care for her and about her?
"As she advances in life will she come to learn that just maybe some of her childish perceptions had been wrongly received? Would she, at long last, find the family love and caring she felt to be lost to her? Could her dark shroud of comfort be shed for bright rays of sunshine?
"Only you her readers, will know."
The author expands on what readers can expect.
"'Jessica Awakens' takes my character into the next phase of her life," said Meadows. "Book one took her from a child into her early twenties. Now she moves into married life with her 'Knight in Shining Armour' who becomes a reality, Jessica quickly learns that life is not like the fairy tales of her childhood. Setting aside the childish perception that have always driven her, Jessica learns the power of her own inner strength --- and never strays to far from her own true self, despite all she has to grow through."
And while the latest book is just hitting the shelves, Meadows will be signing books at Cole's in the Parkland Mall in the city Saturday, she is already looking to book three.
"The third and final book of this trilogy will take Jessica through the times and trials of a middle aged adult as she struggles with a career and a child while absorbing the often, over whelming lessons of life," said the author. "In the third, my readers will learn of the 'Knights' shining or perhaps 'tainted' armour.
"The final novel will be somewhat longer than its predecessors, but I still would like to have it completed within eight to ten months' time. The first two each, absorbed close to ten months' time, so perhaps the last shall take a tad longer. Often life, such as work, gets in my path and hampers me from toying with the more pleasurable hobby of writing so an exact date of completion cannot be promised. I am sure any accomplished author would agree if asked."
And the writing bug has bitten Meadows deeply, with more ideas percolating.
"You ask if there will be a fourth -- I answer simply yes, as I have touched on its outlines already and I do promise, the fourth book I wish to write, has a plot and story line far removed from the journey of Jessica. "
