Susan Lucci Syndrome Broken, Finally!

I've been a member of Epic the premier organization for electronically published authors. The organization began before the first e-reader came long--The Rocket eReader. The first convention was held in Omaha NE and yes, I as there. In fact, with the exception of last year's, I've attended every one.

They've given out awards for the "best" e-book in many categories at each of these conferences. And I've had an e-book as a finalist in almost everyone of these conferences. Even being a finalist is an honor as hundreds of books are entered, but I've never won.

I know exactly how the Academy Award nominees feel when their names are not called for the category they've been nominated for. Sure, I was disappointed but I always smiled and congratulated all the winners even in my category, which was usually mystery.

I finally gave up though, and decided I'd always be a "bridesmaid" and never a "bride", so I didn't even bother entering a book for the last two years. What a surprise when I leaned my publisher entered my romance (with a touch of the supernatural) Lingering Spirit in the Spiritual/Metaphysical Romance Category. I told her I wouldn't win.

I wrote the book quite awhile ago, but the publisher at Oak Tree Press published it as an e-book in the right time period to be entered in the contest. Despite my feelings, I went to the convention which was held this past weekend in San Antonio. I knew I'd have a great time, no matter what, because I have so many friends in Epic and my publisher was attending too.

And yes, I had a great time. I gave a workshop on blogging and blog tours, visited with everyone, went on the river cruise, ate some wonderful food, and told everyone I knew I wouldn't win the Eppie.

The night of the banquet I sat with my publisher and other friends, including the president of Epic and the contest chairperson.

When my turn came, of course I hoped and even felt a bit nervous though in my heart I knew there was no chance. And when the presenter opened the envelope and read my name, I couldn't believe it. I hollered, "Finally, I'm a bride!"

President of Epicon, Anne Manning, and me. The theme of the conference, Murder at the Menger

 (hotel in San Antonio)

 Here's a bit about Lingering Spirit:

Book blurb: After, Steve, her police officer husband is killed in the line of duty, Nicole Ainsworth struggles with the changes forced on her life. Her efforts to focus on her daughter an cope with her grief are kept off-balance by Steve’s ghostly visitations who seems to be trying to communicate with her. Eventually, Nicole finds that Steve isn’t the only one watching over her, and discovers a second chance for love.

Review Snippets:

“…Meredith is a master of characterization. She fully rounds out the facets of her protagonists’ personalities and richly develops the details of the supporting cast. She does not hit any false notes with her dialogue and builds strong relationships among her characters. She realistically describes what a young widow would go through following the tragic death of her husband.

Overall, uncovering why this spirit lingers is an incredibly moving experience.”

--New York Journal of Books--Reviewer Nicole Langan owns the independent publishing house, Tribute Books

5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous Book!

“…Lingering Spirit is well worth buying and spending time with. It'll give you a lot to think about after the story is finished. I loved it, as you can tell. It's the perfect summer OR winter read. Great book, one of my favorite reads this year.” --Beth Anderson, author and book reviewer.

“I rate this book 5 Stars out of 5 Stars!

I LOVED this book I could not put it down! I am telling you all Marilyn is a FANTASTIC writer and anyone who does not read this book is missing out on a fabulous read…” – Vanessa -Ohio Girl Talks

“,,,I polished this book off in two days and you won't want to stop reading it once you pick it up.

Lingering Spirit is the type of book that romance lovers dream of finding.” –Cheryl Malandrinos, The Book Connection

Watch Lingering Spirit book trailer for a preview.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3qYnNmzzAw

Of course Lingering Spirit can be ordered in all the usual places--and is available on the Kindle and Nook.

Lingering Spirit by Marilyn Meredith

Oak Tree Press

Needless to say, I've been floating every since. 

Marilyn