After all the months I’ve spent focused on school board obligations and the crisis our district has been facing for all of the 2023-2024 school year, I’ve almost forgotten what it’s like to focus on other aspects of life. Like writing.

Wait.

Am I an author?

I…I have a new book coming out later this year? What do you mean I have to promote it? What is this other side of my life?! Have I done this before? I don’t recall. Everything prior to July 9th, 2023 seems kind of fuzzy…

So imagine my surprise when I realized that September is less than six months away.

Okay. Now I’m ready. (Just kidding. No one is ever ready for this. Regardless, onward.)

On September 24th, 2024, you’re invited to join me in celebrating the release of my fifth book, MARIT UNSANCTIONED, a young adult fantasy set in a new world full of familiar hopes, dreams, fears, and atrocities. Because teen life is anything but boring when it comes to fantasy fiction. So, what’s in store? Magic, adventure, newly-forged friendships, betrayal, self-acceptance, angst, and a maybe a taste of first love along the way.

When a girl who shouldn’t exist ends up with powers meant for the highest of nobility, she, a nobleman’s son, and their motley crew of friends race to discover the truth behind the long, bloody history of a powerful council that wishes them both dead thanks to the mix-up. What they learn can reshape the future for the better…if they can stay alive long enough to tell their story.

And so…without further ado, the cover reveal for MARIT UNSANCTIONED, with a very special thank you to artist, AK Westerman for her incredible work, even when I was indecisive and surely an annoyance to work with. (Love you, Angela! Thanks for crafting another spectacular cover!)

(Don’t you worry. I see that open space at the top… Hopefully, Kirkus reviews has good things to say before we head to print! )