The Contract (a working title)

Why did I start with this as my debut novel? Well, I certainly didn’t mean to.

I wrote this manuscript in 2021 and set it aside. My plan was to sit on it for a few years and let it season; I wanted to give myself the chance to perfect it by revisiting it with fresh eyes as my skills improved. And I definitely wanted to lead with something similar to what I planned to write in the future. I began working on other projects and even wrote through half of a manuscript that I planned to publish first. Suddenly, so many ideas on how to change The Contract came flooding to me. Even then, I wrote them down so I could use them later. But I could not ignore the magnetic pull of this story; It wasn’t finished, and I had to finish it. So, after mentally running in circles trying to talk myself out of it, I eventually caved and began revising it, accepting that this would be my debut novel. A frightening thought indeed.

This decision was not made lightly. This story is precious to me; I carry the characters around in my heart as if they are dear friends of mine. Not only that, but this book is different from all my others; whether you love it or hate it, it won’t be the best picture of what’s to come in subsequent novels. No way was I leading with this one. But alas, “the heart of man plans his ways, but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9, ESV)

I guess it wasn't really up to me. A lot of what I do in writing, I chalk up to intuition or what I consider prodding from the Holy Spirit. I try to be led into the decisions I make, and I just couldn't shake this one. So here I am, trying not to be terrified of putting myself out there in a much more vulnerable way than I expected. I never thought this would be my debut novel. And while I love this story so much that I am willing to accept it if others don't, I know it will be the first impression I leave with many.

Oh, and just because I have to mention it when I’m talking about The Contract - George is my absolute favorite character. But this story is not your typical "happily ever after." There is love and redemption, personal growth and lessons learned. But there is also sadness and depth that aren't typical of romance novels, and not typical of my other stories. Regardless, I hope it leaves my readers with a deep appreciation for the redemptive power of love and an open heart.