A while back, I said, “BRB: There’s something I have to go do!” That “something” was moving halfway across the country, back to Austin. I swore it wasn’t a goodbye, just a “see you soon.”
Readers, that was six years ago.
So, first of all — hi, I’m back! Told you I couldn’t stay away.
But the world is such a different place than it was six years ago, and I am almost an entirely different person, so I thought I should reintroduce myself.
For those of you who weren’t around back then, I’m Marla (yes, that’s a pen name) and I’m the author of the Kelsey McKenna Destination Wedding Series.
Since I’ve been gone, there’s been a global pandemic; our country is, erm, how to put this… in a time of transition; and, oh yeah, there was the cancer. So, of the six years, I spent one moving and getting settled, two locked down in my house, and two undergoing a series of medical treatments that thankfully did not result in having my leg amputated, for which my surgeon assures me I should feel lucky. (Yay?)
There’s five of the last six years accounted for, most of which feel like a dream. (If you asked me how long I’ve been back in Austin, my gut reaction would be, “Three years!” before I did the math and realized that’s not true at all.)
To say that I’m in a period of re-evaluation would be an understatement.
A couple of months ago, I asked my agent about getting the rights to the Kelsey McKenna series back. I was not 100% committed to relaunching my series, but I set that ball rolling, and, before I knew it, I got my “letters of reversion.” Just like that, I was unpublished.
I feel a bit like a dog who was chasing a car, and then the car stopped, and the driver got out and said, “Yes, what can I help you with?” And then the dog says, “Well, that was unexpected. Give me a second to remind myself what I was barking about. But don’t go anywhere, okay?” (For the purposes of this analogy, the dog can talk, which means, really, he has a lot of options open to him.)
Anyway, all that is to say, I have some decisions to make. Republish my first two novels and release new ones as I finish them? Or wait until I have more than the original two so I can relaunch the series in some sort of organized fashion? (Fun fact: I moderated a panel on self publishing back when I was in NorCal Sisters in Crime. Now, where did I put those notes?)
One thing the last six years has taught me is that life is uncertain, so I probably shouldn’t wait for anything. Except maybe a new headshot. Because mine are old. Like old. Like, “Ha ha, I don’t even look like that anymore” old.
I’ll definitely keep you posted as I go along on this journey, but in the meantime, this post should cover the “What’s new with you?” question. I’ve missed the mystery writing community and look forward to what comes next! But first, headshots.
P.S. Did anyone else start humming “What Did I Miss” from Hamilton when they read the title of this post?
Readers: What’s new with you? We’re all just catching up here, so share what’s on your mind!
Chicks on the Case 
Hi Glad you are back release the two so we can be excited to see the next one. Deborah
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Hi Deborah! Writing this blog post, I think I got more clarity in what I want to do. Funny how that works! Thanks for saying hi! 🙂
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Welcome back, Marla! You were greatly missed but I’m glad your health scare has been resolved and that you’re back to being healthy. Yay for more books in your series!!!
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Kiiiim!!!!! I’ve missed you! With seven books in your series already, you make it look so easy! I’m going to need some tips from you. xoxo
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Welcome back, Marla! Glad to hear you survived the health scare. And I’ve had that “I need knew head shots. This doesn’t look like me at all.” feeling.
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Thanks, Liz! My past two headshots have been taken at events — one at a backyard brunch and one at a wedding — so maybe we should just throw a headshot party where we all dress up, have a glass of champagne, and take great pictures of each other!
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I’m on board with that!
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Marla, I can’t tell you how thrilled I am (and of course all of are) that you are “back.” Not that you ever really went away, because the Chicks coop is forever, lol. But seriously, even though these past 6 years (who’s counting?) have been quite a ride, the fact that you fought for and regained your good health is the most important thing. We’re so grateful for that. Your return to regular Chicks posting and writing is a happy bonus! I vote for relaunching the first book and then the next a few months later–that way you can build anticipation for the next! (Or both books at once, but then you might want to do that to be closer to finishing the next book?) But that’s just my questionable opinion–whenever you choose to pub, readers will love them!
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Thanks, Lisa! It’s good to be back. I can’t believe it’s been six years! And what a weird six years it’s been. The Chicks have been part of my publishing journey since the beginning, so rejoining the flock feels like the perfect next step as I figure out what’s next. (Peer pressure is always welcome and encouraged!)
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Welcome back Marla! I always remember how much I enjoyed meeting you at LCC in Hawaii! I loved your series but we need a refresh. Perhaps start with the first and release the second closer to number three? Glad you are getting back to writing!
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Hi, Fran! Yes!! I remember that conference so vividly. It was one of my favorite experiences as an author to date!
I like your advice. Now I just have to pick which one of my three starts I will go ahead and finish! Thanks for stopping by and saying hi!
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Welcome back, Marla! And I did hum from Hamilton. We’re here for you as you pave a new publication path.
My vote is to have at least a short story at the ready when you re-publish the first two novels. Readers love reading!
But I’m gonna defer to Becky, who’s the real superstar of all things indie.
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This has now segued into me marching around singing, full-throatedly, “You say… the price of my love’s not a price that you’re willing to pay.” (I could go on…)
Thanks for the advice! I like the short story idea… I had an idea for a novella too, set in Vegas. (Quickie wedding, quickie novel!)
Signed,
Your loyal, royal subject. Forever, and ever, and ever.
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Thanks, Jen, and I do love my indie life. You’ll love it too, Marla … all the risk, but all the reward.
Glad you’re back in the coop, Chickadee!
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Glad you are back and survived your health issues (said one cancer survivor to another). Onto the future and I look forward to seeing you in action with a new book.
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Thank you, Dru! We’re both members of The Club No One Wants To Join. May we soon be stalking James Patterson again sometime soon! 🙂
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It’s great to have you back, Marla and congratulations on having your cancer treatment in the rearview mirror!
Don’t wait on getting those books out. I know it’s a cliche, but the future is promised to no one. Two deaths in my family in recent months are stark reminders of that. So, size the day!
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Oh, J.C. I feel this so much! I just lost my last living parent and, man, it makes you realize that we can’t waste any time! My condolences to you, and thanks for reminding me to seize the day!
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Glad you are back and even more glad you are healthy. Best of luck relaunching the series, and I’m excited to hear we will be getting more of them.
What’s new with me? Nothing nearly as exciting as you. I spent a lot of the last six years working from home (which I love) and now I’m trying to readjust to being in the office three days a week (which I don’t love). Read lots of books. Went on some wonderful vacations.
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Hi, Mark! Glad to hear you’re doing well, but sorry about the return to work mandate. It’s hard to go back once you’ve gotten used to being at home!
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I am SO happy to have you back with the Chicks, dear Marla! (Though as Lisa points out, once a Chick, always a Chick!) And even happier that you’re cancer-free. Having witnessed Robin’s bout with chemo and radiation, I don’t wish that on anyone. Ugh.
Can’t wait to read whatever it is you decide to write in the future, because I LOVE your first two books! And as for a headshot, maybe replace the background in that pink photo with the drink and use it–it’s adorable!
Welcome back, cherie! Yippee!
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Thank you, darling! That picture is from the Hilo farmers market, which you told me to go to. I had just been on a hike and looked particularly healthy and glow-y that day! Plus, not every day your drink matches your shirt. 🙂
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OMG, you’re right! I see now the mural behind you–ha! Is that a dragon fruit smoothie?
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It is!! That was right after we tackled the stairs at the botanical garden… What a wonderful suggestion that was, too!
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So wish I’d been here when you visited!
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SO EXCITED TO HAVE YOU BACK!!! I don’t care how you publish Kelsey, as long as you do. I LOVE that series.
And I’m with Leslie – that photo of you with the drink is adorable! Go with it.
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Thank you, Ellen! I’m counting on you guys to keep me inspired! Xoxo
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Marla, I am sooo thrilled to have you back with the Chicks! And also so happy you are in good health. Sorry you’ve had a rough time. We’ll be excited to see more books from you— no matter how you decide to proceed!
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Thank you, Vickie! Here’s to the future, whatever it holds!
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Dearest Marla: WELCOME BACK!! So thrilled that you’re here and that you’re on upside of the healing journey. Love your writing and love you. Cheering for any and all future projects and excited to see what you decide.(Please forgive my lateness…my current schedule is best summarized by the answering machine message in When Harry Met Sally: desperately want to talk to you but am trapped under something heavy.)
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