Good ol' summertime reading

(Val) As an avid reader, I tend to devour books like so many chocolate chip cookies. When I "discover" a great author, I will read everything they have ever written, then start over and read them again. It's just something I love to do more than just about anything else.

Right now I am reading through Ray Blackston's wonderful trilogy about church-hopping singles, missionaries, beach trips and a classic Cadillac. The books are, in order: Flabbergasted, A Delirious Summer and Lost in Rooville. I have read the first two books before, but since I finally got my hands on the third one, I thought I would start over so the story and characters would be fresh on my mind.

Blackston has an uncanny ability to string words together in the most interesting way. I find myself laughing out loud while members of my family give me "that look" and then, a few pages later, I am sympathizing with a character in an awkward moment. These books are at the top of my most-recommended summer reading list for those who are looking for a great way to pass a relaxing afternoon or two.

Speaking of reading, my email buddy romance author Michele Dunaway sent word Friday that her book, with the working title Hart's Victory, has been picked up for publication in Harlequin's NASCAR series. Congratulations Michele! This labor of love is scheduled to hit bookstore shelves in Novemeber of 2007.

Michele is a teacher at my daughter's school, and has immersed herself in all things NASCAR in order to do tons of research for her book. It has been so much fun to walk through the phases of publication with her, and I have learned a lot along the way. Hopefully, I have been able to help her with that research as well. I look forward to reading your book, Michele.

For more about Michele, and a list of her other books, check out her web site: micheledunaway.com

I hope everyone is enjoying this long holiday weekend. We have been taking it at a leisurely pace ourselves. No racing on tap until next Saturday, but that's ok with me since it's so hot outside. Air conditioning is my friend!