Sarah Heatwole

Writing News

It’s June 30th. At the beginning of the year I made a goal of putting out a newsletter monthly. Here we are–down to the last day of the month, and I’m scrambling. But, listen. It’s for good reason. For the past two months I have been feverishly working on finishing The Weight of Mercy. I had a goal of being done by the end of June, and I’m happy to report that the third draft is complete along with a filter word edit. I have sent the manuscript out to my first beta readers, and also submitted one query to an agent who invited me through a pitch event. Pushing send on those emails was hard. So hard, in fact, it had me sweating. Why? When you write a book it becomes a piece of you, for someone who thrives on affirmation–sending yourself out into the world to see if it lands is excruciating.

Here is the deal. I’m so glad to be done and be able to put my focus elsewhere. July is a busy month with work travel and a planned trip to Delaware. I wanted to be able to relax and enjoy the summer, which includes a lot of reading! All the other hobbies in my life have been partially neglected–umm…like my Goodreads page-I’ll get on that ASAP.

In the next months hope to write a few short stories and sketch out a Christmas novella loosely titled Christmas in Carmody. If you are a fan of Road to Avonlea–you know where this is heading…….I plan to make it free to all my newsletter subscribers so send your friends the link to subscribe! SUBSCRIBE

In the spring, I declared I was going to do my own audiobook for Into the Promised Land. Ya’ll, that dream has been swept off my plate. I struggled with committing the time and also the technical skills of recording an audio book are beyond my capabilities at this time. I’ve shelved the project. Even typing those words is difficult, but alas everyone has limits. I am open to subbing out the project if I can find the right narrator.

At this time I don’t have any signings planned, but maybe a few things in the works for the Fall. We are going to be in Delaware the week of the 20th-if you are local and want me to sign your book or purchase one reach out. I also plan on visiting Masthof Press in Pennsylvania and do a little research for my next book.

Personal News

My little snacking garden has thrived. This year I planted three tomatoes, cucumbers, beans and lots of herbs. It’s required a commitment to watering frequently as the heat has set in. I have big plans to have a proper garden in the future with a white picket fence and an arbor with grapes. It’s always good to dream.

That long low planter I picked up off the side of the road. It’s served me well but it’s falling apart. Next year I think I’ll invest in another raised bed.

One more picture! I’m so proud of this planter I created from scratch. That purple Persian Shield is so pretty in person.

What I Read in May

6 out of 5 Stars! My favorite read of 2026 so far. Rita is a friend and member of my local writers group – check out my Instagram HERE she is my latest Author in the Wild video and I interview her about her story. BUY HERE

4/5 stars – good characterization – good plot – and creepy storyline. I enjoyed this easy read!

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