Cathy Marie Buchanan marks anniversary

Cathy Marie Buchanan’s Facebook post this week celebrating the thirteenth anniversary of becoming a published author brought back warm memories for me.

It was during her book signing tour for The Day the Falls Stood Still when she popped into a small local library on an escorted trek around the city. During the author’s impromptu visit, the librarian mentioned my manuscript!

I was at the stage of giving up. Discouraged by query rejections, I was ready to burn the manuscript, convinced I’d never find an agent or publisher. This librarian, who had generously agreed to read my manuscript, felt moved by my novel and must have still been under its spell. Whatever she told the New York Best Selling Author prompted Cathy Buchanan to hand over her phone number with instructions for me to call her. Can you believe it??

Of course I phoned, but not before rushing out to purchase her book. I read it thoroughly and appreciatively, gulped, and dialled her number. During our thirty minute conversation, she offered

encouragement and advice. Every writer needs a tribe, she said, or words to that effect. As soon as I got off the phone from Cathy, I contacted the main branch of the library and a bookstore scouting out writers’ groups. I really lucked out. The expertise of seasoned writers in the group I joined became invaluable mentors.

Three or so years later, my novels were gathering dust while I turned my attention to writing short stories, and it was a contest win that placed me as a Fringe Reader at the Eden Mills Writers’ Festival. Yes, that was exciting BUT the most thrilling aspect was that Cathy Marie Buchanan would also be attending as one of the featured authors. Serendipity at its best! It was during the first morning walkabout that I recognized her in the crowd and introduced myself. She knew me immediately and gave me a friend’s welcome. I felt privileged for this opportunity to spend time with Cathy during the festival. She had followed up The Days the Falls Stood Still and was promoting her international best seller The Painted Girls. You can read my review here.

Not only is Cathy a gifted writer, but the subject matter of her books is also captivating. I’m in awe of the amount of research she did for her historical novel Daughter of Black Lake. And The Painted Girls. Well, The Days the Falls Stood Still, as well. But especially Daughter of Black Lake which brings an ancient world to life. Actually, the accounts of her travels while researching would be fascinating reading. Check out the pictures of her research discoveries on her website here.

As a die-hard fan of Cathy Marie Buchanan, I anxiously await her next release.