Recently, I
had a reader write back to me about my newest release, Fight for Absolution.
They were nice enough to take the time to write me on my Facebook author
page, and let me know some personal things and why they liked the book so much.
I thought I'd share this person's thoughts in hopes that it would help
spread the word and allow others to hear a first hand account at an actual
reader's experience with reading my most recent work. The message contains
small spoilers, but nothing too bad to ruin the first book for you. Here is
your warning if you don't want to be spoiled at all....
You gave me a lot of insightful material to mull over as I
got acquainted with Ryan. You asked somewhere if a sequel would be
appreciated..... a resounding YES. Sometimes characters just need to go on with
their lives un-noticed, but I'd like to see what happens as Ryan struggles to
find peace AND victory in his life, not only with Molly and Mom but with Junior
and Mariah. Her story is all too familiar in my line of work. I am in recovery
myself and watching some of the young people who walk through the doors of the
*************** (censored to respect anonymity) whether by choice or mandate, I
often wonder if enough seeds will be planted to ensure a hearty root of
recovery. Bearing the fruit of the 12 steps is more than not just drinking and
drugging. This job is my attempt to give back something to the fellowship that
saved my life and saved me from myself and my self destructive ways. I so see
Ryan in the folks who are at *********, even now. Their battle is just
beginning and I wonder if they are up for the fight for life or if we fail them
they will continue to have lives of futile dysfunction. I believed that others
but not myself were born with some "coping gene" that helped them get
through the rough places. I really believed this and I also knew I had not
received such a "gene" in my DNA makeup. I know better now, and Fight
for Absolution really hit home. Thank you. Keep on writing, and keep on
offering hope where there often is none.
Here is the
second message sent:
Let me encourage you to keep writing. There is an
audience out there and as word gets around about your work people will find
their way to opening the pages and immersing themselves in the stories that
hold so much truth and wisdom. The young man at the rehab right now to whom I
gave the titles of your books is eager to "get it". He is looking and
searching for answers and hope. He's 20 years old. We won't run out of addicts
or alcoholics any time soon. It's a sad commentary. They don't want to pay
"human service workers" premium pay, but it's not for money that
folks serve this population. Sad to say, job security will be there no matter
how much information is out there. Drugs is big business. The shiney adds for
alcohol glorify drinking. Be encouraged you too are opening eyes to truth.
I am thankful for any feedback and response I get for my work,
especially when it's pertaining to something like this. Knowing that I
could help even just -one- person is a victory for me and makes the art of
writing worth every ounce of energy and second I put into it. A simple
message is an amazing confidence boost during a time when I question why I even
continue to do what I do, so I again want to say a HUGE thanks to the person
who took the time to write me these messages (they asked to remain anonymous),
as well as to others who write reviews, email, and say things on my Facebook
author page. If what I wrote is good enough to recommend to people going
through real life struggles, I feel great in knowing that Ryan Shay's story
might be that extra jolt needed to help someone else accomplish a better life
and find sobriety.
Not only do
I appreciate positive feedback, but constructive criticism is also helpful.
I strive to be a better author each and every day, so contacting me about
concerns/editing problems/typos/etc is also something I like to hear. If
no one is letting me know this stuff, it's hard to improve.
For those
interested, here is all of my contact information:
Email:
JTateAuthor@yahoo.com
Facebook: J.R.
Tate
Twitter:
@JTateAuthor
Or you can
leave me a comment right here on my blog. The method to contact me is
based on your preference, and I'll be quick to write you back! As always, a
review on Amazon is amazing as well!
Happy
reading to all, and may you all have a wonderful weekend and holiday ahead!
