Patti Diener / Author

I Think I Missed A Step

How the Hell Did We Get Here?

The last time I sat down to write in this blog I was rejoicing in the newness of spring. Today, I’m feeling somewhat bewildered, even confused, as to how summer has already come and gone and I’m being escorted into fall like a horse with blinders.

Don’t look back, don’t look over there. That’s not the way you’re going anyway. Stay the course. Keep going.

But shouldn’t we have the ability to reflect? Geez.

The puzzling thing is, I was so incredibly busy this summer (of 2026), but if anyone asked me what I did, I don’t think I could actually say. It was kind of a blur. Truly. I mean…I’m sitting here, thinking, and I’d have to refer to my phone’s calendar or pictures to rightfully recall all the stuff I crammed into my life from the beginning of June to last week.

What does that say about me? Was I never truly present? Or am I simply becoming forgetful?

I’d like to think it just means that when we become overly committed, or overly structured with our time, we loose focus. This isn’t an aging thing, it’s a human thing. I think I had a bit of burnout.

So what do you think I just did? Yep, I looked through my pictures and snuck a peek at my calendar. Ha! Low and behold, I think I had a really great summer.

The Mister and I went to Kentucky to visit family and it was a lovely week to kick off the summer. I brought my laptop but didn’t get much writing done, as I like to stay focused on precious family time when we are out there. It’s a different world, being in Kentucky. The air is softer, the grass much greener, and people don’t seem to be in such a hurry like they are in California. Guess I should have stayed longer huh? Maybe it would have rubbed off on me more.

But in true get ‘er done fashion, I couldn’t stop there. My youngest and I turned right around and I hopped onto another plane within a week of returning home. This time to Arizona.

We don’t sleep much when we visit family in Arizona. It’s party time from the moment we’re picked up from the airport. Once again, I brought my laptop but writing was done in fits and starts. I’m not sure much was accomplished there but that’s not really the point when I get to be with family. I miss them all so much! The laughter we all share is medicine to my soul, and it has to carry me through the times we’re apart.

In between family visits were band rehearsals, a celebration of life for a dearly departed town icon, and of course my little jobette at the Copperfield’s Bookstore. Sometimes my friends would ask me if I sleep. I’d say yes, that I do, but sometimes I’d dream so much about what I needed to do that I’d wake feeling unrested and quite lethargic.

There were still lots more wonderful moments I’m grateful to have had, like our eldest daughter and her husband coming home from Oregon for a visit, me speaking at the monthly meeting for The Writers of the Mendocino Coast, and my 40 year high school class reunion. Our ranch hosted the Lake County Farm Bureau Annual Dinner, Charles (The Mister) and I went with friends wine tasting and rail car riding in Amador County, and we attended a pirate party. Yes…you read that right.

So, yes…summer was full and fun. I just can’t believe what a whirlwind it’s all been. I’m saving the best news for last though, and it has nothing to do with books or writing, or publishing at all. I know you’re surprised. But honestly nothing compares to becoming a grandma. I’m Grammy to the sweetest, darling baby girl. Adrian Rose arrived into this world on August 16, 2026, and stole our hearts. Our daugther Emma, and her husband Johnny (a.k.a. Bub) became parents, and I have to say that they are some of the most skilled and patient parents I’ve ever seen. We are all in love with this little angelic girl and when they give me permission to post pictures, I will do so with glee. She’s precious and perfect. My heart is full.

So in closing, I have another quick update; I’ve quit my job at the best bookstore in the world. I had worked for Copperfield’s Books for two years and loved every second. But alas, it was time to let go of having that scheduled commitment every week and free up more of my time to write, and to be with family. I help our senior aunt and uncle quite a lot in Marin County, for which I’m grateful to have the ability to do so, and I love spending time with my granddaughter. Between that and finishing writing my latest book, I don’t really want the ties to a job right now. They’ve been so supportive at Copperfield’s, that I know if the time is right later on, they’d take me back. Such wonderful friends I’ve made there. I’m very blessed.

I hope you are welcoming fall like an old friend. I’m personally going to try my hand at slowing the hell down! Ha! I mean, I’m planning on being more present, intentional, and reflective instead of going back on autopilot. I’m looking forward to the cozy season with scented candles, crisp morning walks, and changing leaves. If you’d like a great book to read with your apple cider, cup of tea, or glass of wine, grab a copy of either of my books, (After the Fire, or Wildflower). Just go to pattidiener.com for more information. You can also sign up to get my monthly newsletter there, in case you don’t want to wait for me to update this blog. Ha! And wish me luck this November when I go to The Kauai Writer’s Conference. I’ll be speaking with agents and publishers about my upcoming novel.

Happy Reading!

XOXO ~ Patti D.

*All photos property of Patti Diener

I Was Born for This!

Springtime, and why people in the book industry are my High Vibe Tribe!

Things just seem to feel more promising when spring arrives. The emerald hills with tender new shoots of grass, and the glorious first blooms of daffodils poke their heads out to seek the sun’s warm rays after the quiet, cold winter. It’s invigorating!

I too start to wake up with spring’s longer days. Being born in May, I am not overly fond of the dark, cold months of winter. I embrace golden days where baby animals can be spotted on nearby farms on my walks, and early morning bird songs fill the air. This is my time. Spring makes me feel so alive.

With this new energized feeling, I find my enthusiasm for writing also blooms. I start to get more ideas for my writing business, and I have more energy for the things I’d put off during the colder times, when it was just easier to curl up under a blanket and read, rather than create. These days, I’m looking forward to not only my own writing journey, but connecting with other writers as well.

Even though winter isn’t my favorite time of year, this winter I was lucky enough to meet one of my idols, who has inspired me for ages. To me, she’s legendary. One of the greats that when she releases a book, it’s an automatic purchase for me. I’m talking about the lovely, Paula McLain. She came to Northern California in February, and meeting her brought me such joy, I could scarcely contain myself.

I devoured her new book, Skylark. I’ve been talking to anyone who will listen about it, especially at the indie bookstore where I work, (Copperfield’s Books). Hand selling books to eager readers is my specialty. Being a retired librarian, I love matching a reader with the perfect book for them. Anyway, meeting Paula, was a golden light for me during the winter of 2026, and gave me the boost I needed to get moving in my own writing career.

I’ve been working on a new novel since fall of 2025, (another women’s fiction about a midlife gal whose life gets turned upside down), but because of certain personal hurdles I had to overcome in January, the writing sort of came to a halt. After speaking with Paula, the spark ignited again, and ever since I’ve been off to the races! The writing has been pouring out of me.

Something many people don’t know is that the writing community is extremely supportive. I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful writers in my life. Some first-time published, some famously published with numerous titles under their belts. Some writers seeking publication, others writing just for fun. But no matter where they are on their writing journey, we all have one thing in common…and that is we love the written word. How language can tie us all together. It’s truly beautiful.

I love to attend author events. I enjoy going because I’m so curious about what other author’s processes are. Sometimes they share great writing tips, sometimes they share funny stories about how they got to where they are today. Other times I get more out of listening to fans like me, and why they are attending the same event. Quite often, I’ll hear them say, “I have a book in me too, but I’m not sure how to get started.” That’s how great conversations begin.

Recently, I’ve had several people reach out to me to ask me how I published my books. Because I’ve been blessed with so much support in the past from wonderful writers, I’m always trying to pay it forward. I’ve shared what’s worked, and what not to do. I’m happy to reach behind me with a hand to pull the next person up, so they too can move up their ladder towards the thing that fills their cup. Honestly, I’d write no matter what, because it’s what I love, but I think I enjoy the connections I get from the writing world just as much as I do the craft.

There is so much I am looking forward to this year. I don’t truly feel the year has begun until Spring. That’s because I’m so sluggish during winter, and I get most of my work done in the other three seasons. Living in Northern California, I’m blessed with all seasons. I suppose if there wasn’t the polarity of dark and light, I might not enjoy the light as much. Just expressing a little of me and how I find gratitude, even for the things that I’m not so enthusiastic about. Ha!

Anyway, I’m really looking forward to starting up my newsletter again. I haven’t had one since I stopped podcasting in 2023! Time flies. It’s wild how fast. But I’m also excited for an author weekend with Brenda Novak next week (early April), for lots of upcoming events with our band, The Classic Set, and for lots of family time with fun in the sun. I’ve been invited to speak to a writing group in Mendocino this summer, which I’m really excited about, but first I hope to finish my first draft of my current WIP by late spring. I’ll be on the hunt for a new editor as well, since my last one prefers romance.

Every single day I am grateful for the life I get to live. Being able to write and only work two days a week (for which I am thrilled to do- who doesn’t love a bookshop?), is such a blessing, I can’t believe sometimes how fortunate I am. But having readers out there wanting to read my books is the cherry on the sundae of my existence. Without readers, it would be hard to keep writing.

So…there’s something I need to ask you. A favor, actually. My latest book, Wildflower, needs a little love. If you have read it, (and I hope you have), please consider leaving a rating and/or a review on Goodreads, or Amazon. You could even just post a picture of it on your social media account with your review there, or choose it for your next book club pick, like my friends here in Kelseyville, California have done. I speak with them later this month, and am so grateful to them. Getting the word out about a book is sometimes hard to do, and marketing is the hard part for me. I am ok with writing alone. I can’t spread the word about the book alone.

Thank you in advance, and if you haven’t grabbed your copy of either of my books yet, go to my website at pattidiener.com and links are there for purchase. If you’d like to order a signed copy, just send me a message on the Contact Me page.

Your support means the world to me. Without readers like you, it wouldn’t be as much fun to write. Y’all put the sparkle in my desire to create worlds on the page. And creating characters, and building worlds from my mind- that’s been my dream since I could read. Thank you for being such a big part of my writing journey.

Xoxo ~ Patti

It’s Not All Puppies and Rainbows

When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned

So, there I was; plugging along like a kid on a glorious Saturday afternoon, making their way through the neighborhood to hook up with friends. Confident, unbothered, happy. That’s how it feels just before life starts to throw shit your way. Then, it feels more like you’re dodging line-drives from the pitchers mound, and you start talking to yourself.

“I didn’t sign up for this shit!”

If you read my previous post, the holidays were good and I was quite optimistic about life in general. I’m still a very optimistic person, regardless of the bizarre circumstances I find myself in these days. But sometimes, you just gotta sit back and scratch your head in wonderous confusion, on how the tables can turn so quickly. How one minute you feel like you’ve got the world on a string, then the next you are holding onto a tiger’s tail, praying the bumpy ride will be over quickly.

The new year of 2026 started out fairly well. The Mister and I had a lovely two week trip making the rounds to see a multitude of family and friends, sight seeing along the way. It was great! Spending quality time with my hubby, laughing, joking and toasting each evening with cocktails, often gazing at painted skys of sherbet. Just living our best life!

But the Universe sometimes presents challenges that we aren’t expecting, and it’s in the way we respond to these challenges that shows just how far we’ve come on this evolutionary plane. Sometimes, we respond with grace. Sometimes we say the fuck word…a lot!

A few things have thrown a cog in the works of my nicely greased machine I call, My Life. Now, as I just said, I can usually respond to unpleasant situations these days, (oh, say the past six years), with a resonable demeanor and focused goal on what to do next. But sometimes things build up, and then all bets are off. Yeah…I can lose my shit.

When we returned from our fun trip out of state, I was in a car accident that left me with injuries I’m still healing from, and it flat out sucks. No other way to say it. I won’t go into any detail about the situation, for one, it won’t do any good, and for two, I’m trying to move forward and not rehash things. Still, it was a sucker punch thing to happen in my life, and I feel sort of ambushed.

You cannot prepare yourself really, to have shit go sideways. I mean, we do our best, each day to be mindful. To live with intention and kindness. We work hard, strive to do the right things, and still, sometimes you get to eat a shit sandwich. Fair? Nope. But that’s reality. And here I am, asking myself if I’ve done enough work on my spiritual-self to move to the other side with dignity and grace.

Like, when I’ve been working diligently with both Amazon and Ingram Spark, for months on end to get it together and, won’t somebody please tell me why these guys can’t get along? I own my ISBN numbers (which is the International Standard Book Number), for both my books, (After the Fire, and Wildflower), and still, they each think the other owns it. So, they aren’t letting me publish on both platforms. Nothing I do has helped. I know it sounds confusing if you aren’t in publishing, but trust me, it’s an independent author’s nightmare.

It pisses me off.

But still, each morning I wake up since the accident, I tell myself how blessed I am to be here, and how grateful I am for this life. I try to be hopeful each day, and spend time reminding myself of my great fortune, by listening to things like, Tuesdays with Morrie, on audiobook, or reading inspirational stuff like, The Happiness Project, for the hundredth time. But as my dear friend told me on the phone when I was promising that everything is gonna work out, she said, “Yeah, but Patti, it still fucking sucks.”

IT DOES!

Getting your bearings when you feel you’ve been thrown off course, can take time and patience. I’m learning all about patience, and what I’ve discovered is…I’m not all that patient. Ha!

Recently I read a substack post by author Annabel Monaghan entitled, “Don’t Tell Me to Relax.” It was interesting to me as well as funny, because I was like, yeah! Don’t tell us to relax when things aren’t going our way, dammit! And while she was stuck in this AirBNB, instead of her new place she was waiting for months to move into, the decor of this rental was mocking her with over-the-top vacation vibes. Too much sealife ornamentation, happy signage, and aggressive decorating to the point that even the back of the toilet had an enormous seahorse sculpture sitting on it. Offensive and ridiculous if you are not really on vacation, but in limbo waiting out escrow.

I tell you that only because, toxic positivity can come from most anywhere. Especially if we are feeling shitty. And it is OK, to be both an optimistic person, and still admit to feeling like you’ve been served piss in your champagne flute. You don’t get demerits for speaking your truth. Still, I don’t want to wrap myself up with a pity party and live there. But once in a while, I let myself cry for about 10 minutes before moving on.

When you are landblasted with an unexpected situation, allow yourself time to digest it. To sit with it, and wait for all the pieces to fall before you expect yourself to reassemble. These things take time, and you deserve the grace, love, and understanding to process it all before moving forward again. These are the things I’m telling myself every single day. The more I say it, the more I believe it. It’s true for me, and it’ll be true for you too.

And before ya know it, life takes on a beautiful glow again. It might look different, or it could point you into a different trajectory, but it’s in the nano-moments and glimpses of light that filter through the cracks that brings us the tread we so desperately need…and that is hope.

With love, Patti

* Pictures of me and Marina del Rey, are mine. Feature post courtesy of pexels.com and cartoon is Bitmoji.

Downshifting for the Holidays

Getaways and Family Time

I’ve always looked forward to the holiday season where everything changes seemingly overnight. The air turns crisp, nights are longer and cozier, and I somehow feel more hopeful. A fire in the fireplace is like a blanket that wraps around the whole house, bringing comfort not only to the body, but for the soul. And when you are sipping a cup of hot tea, or nursing a glass of red wine while getting lost in a book, there isn’t anyplace better to be.

From the end of October to the first of the year, our family finally gets to settle down. As a farming family, harvest is the last hoorah we push through before the much anticipated quiet begins. When it finally arrives, we sort of hold our breath, not fully trusting we can relax yet. I watch my worn out husband become itchy with guilt, unable to downshift from going his normal hundred miles an hour. The only way to make him take a day off is to get him to leave town.

We rented a perfect house on the Mendocino Coast with family and friends. It perched high on a cliff overlooking the magestic Pacific Ocean, complete with outrageous waves so big, they rivaled scenes from Magnum PI, or Hawaii Five-0. Each night, we were lulled to sleep with the sound of the crashing waves slamming against the shore of ancient rocks and beach below.

After the first day, I started to see the tension leaving Charlie, as he realized there was no work to be done here. Just deep breathing of the salty air. We indulged in terrific food, (thanks to Helen’s master kitchen skills), bundled up for the windy beach, and each threw back our fair share of wine or bourbon. Slowly, we all untangled ourselves from the grind of our day-to-days, and settled in for some luxurious leisure time. The art of doing nothing. It was sinfully good.

On the last day, Charlie and I went for a drive to spend some much needed time together and found our way to Point Arena. It was a laidback, meandering day – the kind we only can dream about when we are in our normal life of going mach-5 with our hair on fire. This particular day had no agenda, held no tension, and unfolded as smooth as silk. Soft, and beautiful.

I have a fascination with lighthouses and will no doubt write a book based on one someday. We both love the Point Arena Lighthouse, and since it was only miles down the street from our rental, we decided to visit. While there, I purchased a biography about one of the lightkeepers. Research? Perhaps.

Taking that trip over to the Mendocino Coast was the second one I’d recently gone on, as I’d been over there for an author event just weeks before. I have to say, it is still one of the most lovely places on the planet, and returning there is like going home. I write there at least once a year, staying alone to get inspiration. In fact, (not really a spoiler), but my next novel is based in the town of Mendocino. It oozes charm like a Hallmark movie. The food scene there is quite a treat as well.

With our return to normal life, we had begun the slow down, and it was easier for hubby to not go directly back to working himself silly. Instead, he continues to work on smaller projects that during the rest of the year he hasn’t the time for. As for me, I’m working the bookstore (Calistoga Copperfield’s Books) and limiting my author events to just online until the New Year. I did a book giveaway on social media last week, bundling both my books for three lucky winners, and other than that, have a few podcasts coming up I can share soon. I’m hoping to get a few spots on some local radio stations as well. I’ll keep you posted.

Something quite magical happened recently that we were blessed enough to be able to witness, and that was the lights of the aurora borealis. I’d seen this happen here in Northern California, only once before in all of my fifty-seven years. The first time we saw it, there were faint lights of bluish green. Special, but it didn’t last. This time, it was like someone had painted the sky with shimmering lights of pink and green, that waved mysteriously across the heavens. It was flowing like a river among the stars, dancing here and there, just north east of my house. We stood in the frigid night pointing and gasping at the spectacle. A remarkable night for sure.

This was taken with my phone but it was all I had in the moment and didn’t want to risk it going away if I’d had gone into the house and looked for my good camera. We were witnessing a miracle and I soaked up every second I could.

So now, we’ve wrapped up Thanksgiving, where our oldest daughter was able to join us all here in California. I got the gift of having both my daughters together at our wonderful aunt and uncle’s home in Marin County. We were surrounded with love, and thanks, and enough food to feed a football team, but who counts calories on Thanksgiving? Ha! Now, we are looking Christmas square in the eye and saying…I’m ready. Let’s do this.

May you know how very special you are. I wish you each the gift of family, (blood family, found family, or both), and the time to be together. May you walk a little lighter, smile a little easier, and love a little more. The holidays are meant for reflection, for gratitude, and for giving. Not necessarily tangible things, (although those are nice), but giving of yourself. I hope you find happiness and joy throughout the season and into the New Year.

With love, Xoxo ~ Patti

Bookshops, Band Gigs, and Bone Density Tests

Things keeping me busier than a bartender on payday!

Much has happened in my world since I last posted here. Mostly good things, but I have to say, that sometimes I feel like I’m on a high speed rail. It’s like the old song, “Hot Rod Lincoln,” says, “My speedometer has hit top end, my foot glued to the floor, that’s all there is, and their ain’t no more!”

Not that I’m complaining though. I love what I’ve put on my plate, and the people I get to interact with make me smile just thinking about them. And there have been quite a lot of folks I’ve seen since August, when I last posted. Lots of events and activities that have filled up, seemingly, every square space on my calendar. When I bring up my phone’s calendar lately, it looks like I’m about to achieve blackout in Bingo!

The biggest event was our daughter Emma’s wedding. She was married on September 20th, and the lead up to it, and the weekend itself, were as most big weddings are; full of chaos, rushing, and lots of laughter with friends and family. The photographer is still working on some of the edits, but I’ll share a pic of our original four. Charlie, Emma, me, and our oldest, Fallon.

I’ve had several book tour dates as well. All of my events have been in Northern California thus far. I did have to cancel my SoCal date for Culver City, because there was just far too much going on. However, I may revisit that idea of going south again this spring. But the most interesting place where I had the most sales so far, was at a local winery. Fults Family Vineyards has a monthly event called Thirsty Thursday, that goes all summer and into fall. Because the band I’m in was the evening’s entertainment, I had double duty, of singing and during our set breaks, I signed copies of my books. My face hurt from smiling and laughing, it was so much fun.

Speaking of the band…we played an epic evening recently that was a 1970s costume party / fundraiser. We were all decked out in 70s garb, complete with platform shoes, wigs, and bell-bottoms. I had so many sequins that if I’d been lost, you could have just followed the trail of tiny, sparkling discs left in my wake to find me. Yes, I chose the disco era.

From left to right that is Dan Janakes, Mike Harris, myself, Dave Evans, Bill Diener, and Tim Gill. We are The Classic Set, and man, do we have fun! Of course, this isn’t our normal attire…well mostly not. Wink-wink.

So of course I’ve had many book events at bookstores. Some readings, some meet and greets, and one author panel. At each place, I’ve been welcomed and supported so well, that I have to say that the independent bookstores are the best!

Basically, I have had nothing but encouraging and loving support from both the writing community, as well as the independent bookstores across the board. My experience as an indie author has been nothing short of amazing. And a dream opportunity has been offered to me as well. Author Brenda Novak, who has more than eighty books in print, has offered to have me on her Facebook group live this coming Thursday, October 30th. She hosts a monthly book group online and I am simply over the moon excited about it. Join her group to watch.

Now, I know you must be wondering what I was talking about in the title of this post when I said, bone density test. Well, I am fifty-seven years old, I’ve only broken a few small bones in my entire life, but this year, my doctor said that since I’m getting “older,” I should consider getting one. The reason being is that in February of this year, I broke a toe. Yep, that’s it. But I also know that I am a klutz, and basically hurt myself because of the velocity of which I go-go-go! I believe anyone who runs around like a chicken with it’s head cut off like I do, is bound to have a little mishap now and again, (let’s not talk about the time I knocked myself out on a fence trying to duck under it while walking too fast with a ball cap on). So next week, I’ll get a bone density test done, like a good aging girl should.

Other than that, I’m planning to take some much needed down time with my hubby the first part of November, but after that, who knows? I am planning a trip over to the Sacramento area to put some of my books on consignment in another indie bookshop, (more on that to come). Other than that, I think the majority of my book marketing for Wildflower, and book talks will be online or on podcasts. I promise to keep you apprised.

Lastly, in case you didn’t know this, Wildflower is available on audiobook too! You can listen wherever you get your audiobooks. Some examples are Spotify, Libro.fm, Audiobooks.com, Audible, and so many more platforms.

Thank you for your support. If you have read either of my books, After the Fire, or Wildflower, I’d like to ask a favor. Please consider leaving a rating, a review, or post about it online. Letting others know about my books, from someone that isn’t me, is extremely helpful. I appreciate it more than you know.

Happy reading friends. Xoxo ~ Patti

Spreading the Joy

Bookstores, Podcasts, and Wineries too!

Lucky for me, I’m not a shy person. I love talking with folks, learning about them and having deep conversations. Because I am good at this you’d think that marketing a book and doing all the PR that is involved would come easy to me, right?

WRONG!

I have a helluva time knowing what to say about my work. I’m great at promoting other people’s work. But for some reason, when I’m asked about my latest release, I find it hard to wrap it up succinctly. It is always the toughest job for me, writing the summary. Making the pitch. But I’m getting better.

As a little girl, I dreamed of writing books for a living. As an adult, I found it hard to etch out time to get any writing done. I dove into adulthood as the responsible person I always was. I had the job, and soon after the husband, and the kids. I then took to marriage and parenting in the same manner. Everything else was first, and my writing was a “pipe-dream.” I would get to it one day.

Then I finally wrote my first book, After the Fire. It was a well received first novel, and I am still very proud of it, mostly because it was honoring my community after the devastating Valley Fire of 2015. But years later, and with many writing classes and workshops under my belt, I’ve found I’ve grown and improved my writing chops. It was high time I wrote something new.

Since my new book’s release this past July, Wildflower, has done really well. I’ve had, and continue to get, many opportunities to promote the book. Many bookstores have been very welcoming in putting my book on hand, and I’ve been invited to speak on both podcasts as well as Instagram, and Facebook live events. These are huge promoting opportunities. I’m very grateful.

The thing that continues to excite me is the upcoming events. I’m fortunate in that I’ve been welcomed to do book signings at store tables, and do readings at some stores as well. I’ve been invited to author panels, where multiple authors speak, and this is a great opportunity for me to meet other authors, which is one of my favorite things about the writing industry. The relationships you build in the writing world.

But in order to get these things to happen, I have to reach out. As an indie author, all the footwork and PR is up to me. And sometimes, it’s still hard to ask, but I do it anyway. Like I’ve said before, the worst people can do is say no. And we never get what we don’t ask for.

I think some of you know, but in case you don’t, I joined a classic rock band last year. It’s fun, and something I think lots of people dream of doing at some point in their lives. I’m fifty-seven. If not now, when? It’s a blast! One of our gigs coming up is at the Fults Family Vineyards Winery, in Lower Lake, California. They are so kind there, and because I know the owners, they are encouraging me to also sign my books on the night of our gig. A two-fer! I’m stoked about that. If you read this on or before September 4th, come on over for Thirsty Thursday, and see us there. Again…it’s the connections. I love people.

The main reason for me making the post today is to let you know that my new book it out there, but also that I’d love to talk with you. The best part of being a writer is talking about books, about writing, and the writing process. The WHY we write, and what drives us. If you love stories, if you love to read, or have ever thought you might want to write a book…PLEASE… come to one of the events on the schedule, or look me up! Email me at pdienerauthor@gmail.com and in the subject line write: Let’s Connect.

In the meantime, I hope your summer wraps up lovely. Can you believe it’s September now? I hope you enjoy your friends, the good weather, and the little things that add up to big things. Like, a great cup of coffee in the morning. A quiet moment, or a walk in nature. A belly laugh with friends over wine or your favorite cocktail, or the beauty of a spectacular sunset. I hope you know how very much you do matter, and that your contribution to the world only asks that you show up. In any way that you can. Some days it’s in bigger ways, and some days it’s just that you got out of bed. Just do your best, and know you are enough.

With all my love, I’m sending you wishes of happiness. Happy reading my friends.

Xoxo ~ Patti

Living for These Moments

Being Brave Enough to Risk Rejection

You never get what you don’t ask for in this life. That has been my motto before it was even a thing. It is the truth though, and sometimes it takes enormous strength and courage to ask for not only what you need, but for the things you truly want. Right now, I want for my book to be successful, and that takes a village.

I remember back when I had my day spa in the small town where I live in Lower Lake, California. I was a young mother with small daughters, but wanted to work outside of the home again. It had been a decade of staying at home and I was thirsting for human connection with adults who ate things other than PB & J sandwiches, and wore clothes other than sweatpants.

So I started a business in a little 1940’s bungalow that sat on Main Street. I got the landlord to lower the rent, tear out the carpeting to refinish the hardwood floors, and install a more efficient heating/cooling system. When the previous tenants came into my shop and saw the improvements, they were surprised to find out the landlord paid for it all. A bit pissed off, they asked, “How did you get him to do that?” I simply said, “I just asked.”

If you have a compelling enough argument, or kind enough request, you’d be surprised at how people truly want to help you. With the launching of my book, Wildflower, I’ve asked people to not only buy the book, but recommend it to their friends, leave a review or rating, and share pictures of it online. As an indie author, (this means I’m not traditionally published or represented by an agent), I’m the whole show on my own. So I literally need to ask for help wherever possible, and this means I have to get over myself, when it comes to feeling awkward and vulnerable.

My current event schedule at the time of this post.

Going into independent bookstores, or any retailer, to ask the management if they would be interested in carrying my book is still very intimidating to me. I get nervous and worry of the sting of rejection, should they turn me down. It could happen. Luckily for me, so far it hasn’t. Still, I know that day will come when I’m met with a, we just aren’t interested, comment. But it won’t stop me. Because a NO, only means it’s not a good fit. And afterall, who wants to be partnered with someone that’s not a good fit?

The other thing that is scary is putting yourself out there for interviews on podcasts, book groups, and social media events. It’s crucial though in this day and age, to be open to all kinds of platforms that could possibly get your book circulated. I mean, let’s face it… we don’t want to just sell a dozen copies to our closest family and friends as authors. And readers are literally everywhere, but you gotta know where to look. There has to be some kind of risk involved in order to get a return. That means, you have to get uncomfortable, and I’ve been willing to do that for quite some time now.

I love that people are kind enough and excited enough about my books that they share their pictures with me on social media. The love they share just makes my heart grow. I would write no matter what, because I cannot keep myself from writing. But knowing people are out there anticipating my words, brings me a kind of joy that cannot be properly expressed. There isn’t vocabulary that describes that kind of feeling, but it lights me up, and fuels my spirit.

If you haven’t read Wildflower, it is about a young woman finding her worth in the world. It’s about mothers and daughters, about addiction and redemption, and forbidden love and romance. It’s about stopping at nothing to build a better life, even when it feels like the world is trying to tear you down. I love Charlie Kane and Jack Connors, my two main protagonists. But there is a whole cast of characters that I am in love with, and some I love to hate. I hope you will grab a copy from either Amazon (in both paperback or ebook), or from one of the retailers I’m holding an event with. Look at the above list. Soon there will be an audiobook out, and I’m always making new contacts with stores, so follow me on Instagram or Facebook for current details on where else Wildflower will be sold.

Thank you so much for all your support. And if you have already read either of my books, please leave a review on Amazon, or Goodreads, because that helps the algorithms put my book higher in the lists online, making them easier for others to find.

Here’s hoping I see you out there at one of my events. Cheers to the last part of summer.

Xoxo ~ Patti

* Feature photo is mine, along with schedule pic. Photo credits of shared book shots are from Yvette Sawle Guillory, and Darcie Jordan.

Launch Day Countdown

…and there’s not enough time in a day!

So much to do and not enought time. That seems to be on repeat in my brain lately. But I’m also trusting that everything will work out. Somehow. And you can help. I’ll tell you how in a minute.

There have been endless things to do in preparation for this book launch, and that is on top of writing and editing the book. There are so many balls in the air, multiple steps that have had to happen in a particular order, just so this book could see the light of day. But like anything I do that is hard, I look back and wonder how the hell I did it all. Launching a book isn’t so unlike delivering a child. We forget the tough parts as a means to allow us to do it again.

Back in September of 2023, I started writing a book called Wildflower, inspired by a 1972 Skylark song of the same name. I’d always loved the song and could envision the girl it was written about. But something that August of 2023, made me feel more connected to the lyrics, and as I drove my two grown daughters along the winding coastal Hwy 1 in Northern California, towards Bodega Bay, I told them about my idea for this book.

We’d just come from spending the morning in Sebastopol, having had our nails and toes done for my oldest’s wedding that coming weekend. We meandered through shops, like Copperfield’s Books, galleries, and grabbed coffees at Retrograde. This coffee house found its way into my book in a big way. The experience made me feel like I should set the book in this charming town, that I’d loved visiting since I was a kid.

But when you listen to the lyrics of this haunting song, you will understand that my protagonist doesn’t come from the best upbringing. She carries the weight of the world, seemingly alone, on her shoulders. Anything good she has in life she has had to fight for it, and it is a long haul.

As I explained to my two girls about my thoughts for developing this book, we listened to the song in the car while winding through the eucalyptus trees with the sun roof down. The coastal breeze filled our senses and I thought...this would be how she escapes her troubles! I knew the setting, and my main character had to live in Sebastopol, and drive the twenty minutes to Bodega Bay when she felt trapped or upset.

So, after the August wedding, I started my journey into figuring out just who my characters were. Lots of deleting, many revisions later, I allowed, sheepishly, for my friends from the Kick-Ass Writers Group, to read the manuscript. It wasn’t always easy. These are tough and talented people. I owe so much to them for their care and honesty. And then came hiring an editor, which was also difficult for me, as my first editor, who I worked with on After the Fire, had since shifted her career from editor to writing coach. Jen Graybeal is your go-to-gal if you need advice or coaching in this field. But I was fortunate enough to find a great editor, Tamara Hughes. The combination of these women helped me mold this book into something really special.

I won’t bore you with all the minutiae of each step to publication, but with me working part-time in a book store in Calistoga, (Copperfield’s Books-come see me there), and joining a classic rock band with five guys, (we just acquired the 5th recently) that make me laugh til my belly hurts, life is busy. Just writing and publishing a book is a full-time job. Something of which I know some other authors are far better at accomplishing than me. But my main goal at 57 years old is to have the most fun I can. Of that, I know I’m killing it!

I don’t know many people who are enjoying what they do each day as much as I do. So if that is the real goal, then I’m slaying. I’ve even dropped almost twenty pounds since I retired, just because I’m not feeling anxiety and stress like before. Now when I get worked up or anxious, it’s because I’m nervous but excited. Very different feelings.

But there is something you can do for me. Remember at the beginning of this post I said you can help? Well, you can.

I need help reaching as many people as I possibly can about this book. That means you can share this post, my website, my Facebook posts or Instagram. I’m on X as well. TELL PEOPLE about Wildflower and here’s the most important thing. Are you Ready?

BUY MY BOOK! Ha! It’s available for pre-order on ebook from Amazon, and on July 8th, the paperback releases to order as well. After that, Wildflower, will also be available at select retailers, such as bookstores, wineries, and coffee houses. I’m pleased to announce that I’ve just hired a very talented voice actor to read for the audiobook as well, which will release in a few months. I’ll be sharing details on my author events on my social media accounts (please follow me on Instagram and Facebook) as well as my new website that will be pattidiener.com. It’s currently under construction. I’m still keeping this website for my blog.

Thank you all for your support, and if you’re just now finding me, I am so happy you are here.

Xoxo ~ Patti

*All photos provided by Patti Diener, except eucalyptus trees and beach photo provided by pexels.com.

Deadlines and Distractions

Keeping My Eye on the Prize for Book Launch Day

As I look at my over-filled calendar that’s chock-full of obligations, fun events and outings, to even doctor appointments, I realize I’m just a little over ten weeks away from book launch day. Time surely flies.

The surprising thing is, I’m not very nervous. I think I’ve given myself plenty of lee-way in the off chance that something holds up the project. Publishing can be tricky when there are so many wheels in motion. So many people to rely on to do their part. I’ve been fairly lucky thus far that all of my team, that I’ve had to assemble in order to get this book out, has been on the ball and quick to address their role.

In case you missed what book I’m speaking of, I’ve written a new novel called, Wildflower. It is set to release on July 8th, and I feel that excitement of a new mother all over again, giving birth to a precious gem that’s been twenty-two months in gestation.

The cover design came out better than I could have dreamed! And with the interior being formatted now for both the print version as well as ebook, I’m just waiting for the final product so I can review it.

But I tend to get distracted and unsure of what to do next. With all the deadlines I have for each step to be completed, sometimes I can get overwhelmed with the checklist. The marketing is the most cumbersome. From social media posts, to making videos, creating cards, and bookmarks, to lining up interviews with influencers, book groups, bookstores, and podcasters…it seems endless. Do I hire a PR person? Do I continue to do it myself? For now, I’m doing ok, but self-publishing is a lot.

My most recent endeavor has been to pull together pictures to create a book trailer. Yes, that’s a thing. Like watching a movie trailer, seeing a book trailer can give people a better idea as to what the book is about. A visual aid to pique their interest. Something that eats up a lot of my time but will last forever, and I can use it again and again. Still, it gets exhausting, and once you are on the internet merry-go-round, looking for usable photos, time slips through your fingers faster than a slippery bar of soap. Time management hasn’t always been my greatest strength either.

So the good news is, I am on track, I’m feeling great, and spring is here! This is my favorite time of year and I am the most energized during spring. It’s glorious to get up early at sunrise, breathe deeply in that dewy grass outside with a steamy cup of coffee, and listen to the music of the birds showing off for one another.

I hope you are getting just as excited for my new book as I am. Wildflower is the story of Charlie Kane, a girl living in Sebastopol, California, and her evolution to becoming a woman, struggling to find her worth in a world of turmoil and chronic dissappointment. It’s about mothers and daughters, about addiction and redemption, and forbidden love and romance. It’s about stopping at nothing to build a life when it seems everything wants to tear you down. A heroes journey of sorts. Heroine, actually. And the book will take you from Northern California, to the busy cities around Los Angeles, New York, and other travel destinations as well. I’m thrilled to share it.

Wishing you all a lovely spring full of joy and adventure. Don’t forget to tell your friends about Wildflower, (and maybe this blog), so more people will be enticed to grab my book once it is available. I’m also working on getting it ready for pre-orders. More on that to come.

All the best ~ Patti

*Photos belong to Patti Diener except bird picture is provided by pexels.com.

Getting There’s Half the Fun

Anticipating the Release of My Latest Novel

I keep getting ahead of myself. That’s nothing new when I’m excited about something. Lately, I feel like a kid planning a trip to Disneyland. My enthusiasm is palpable. My friends see it, feel it when I’m around, and I can’t stop smiling.

I’m releasing a new book this summer.

After the craziness of 2020, and having to navigate marketing a new book by a debut author in the wake of a pandemic, I feel my first book did pretty well, all things considered. AFTER THE FIRE, was my baby, and I’m very proud of it. But this feeling I have about WILDFLOWER is different. Bigger. This time, I’m enjoying the process more without so much anxiety.

This time I immersed myself in just telling the story without worrying so much about whether or not anyone would like it. I LIKE IT! That’s where I decided to start. And since I’ve had several writing friends read it, and have gone through multiple revisions before sending it off to an editor, I’m confident this story is going to be well received.

But my confidence has me putting the cart before the horse, so to speak. I was ready to reveal the book cover before the company had even finalized it. I was talking formatting before my editor even finished the first round of edits. What can I say? I’m freakin’ over the moon! I can’t wait to share this story with the world.

So now, I do have a finalized book cover that I’m more in love with than I imagined I could be, and my editor has the second round of edits underway. I will be posting cover reveals on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X), later this month of March. It’s like being penalized for jumping off sides and making a false start. I understand the jittery nerves athletes get when they just want to get in there.

And as they say, the joy is in the journey. Over the past year and a half since I started writing this book, I’ve made such lovely friends, traveled to such beautiful places, and felt more connected to the writing community than ever before. Even my podcast (that is still available even though I’ve stopped making new content), where I had loads of guest speakers from all over the globe, has given me the opportunity to connect with loving and supportive people. I’m being encouraged from multiple continents to keep going, and embrace what makes me happy. Today, that is writing.

You might be wondering what WILDFLOWER is about. Well, it’s the evolution of a girl struggling to find her worth in a world of turmoil and chronic disappointment, blossoming into a woman that stops at nothing to create an exemplary life where she can feel safe, and whole, and maybe even loved. It’s a coming-of-age novel about a talented outcast, about mothers and daughters, about addiction and redemption, and about romance and forbidden love.

This has been the most fun I’ve had writing, so far. I’ve written since I was in the 5th grade, and finished four manuscripts, but am only just now, at fifty-seven years old, publishing my second book. Better late than never.

I appreciate all of you reading the blog, and am grateful for your interest in what I’m up to. Writers need all the support we can get, so don’t forget to tell a friend that I’ll have new release this summer. I’m shooting for July 8th as the release date. I’ll confirm that in my next post. Until then, I love each of you and am sending out great vibes to everyone. Stay curious. Do that thing that lights you up. Don’t stop just because you are afraid. Believe in yourself.

Much love ~ Patti

* Typewriter picture courtesy of Pexels.com

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