Twenty Years in the Making: First Novel

20 years in the making – first novel

On a snowy, icy day this past February, I was ecstatic to have finished my first novel. I closed my computer and allowed myself to feel some great satisfaction. Some of you who have followed my writing know that I’ve also written ten nonfiction books over the years published by pretty big religious publishers like Word Books, Bethany House, and Zondervan. I had some good luck in those early years–1980s. Herald Press (Mennonite publisher) was also very generous in publishing several of my books. Publishing has changed hugely since then, I’ve found out. 

I have also written small pieces of fiction over the years, and started various novels. My short stories were sometimes published in small magazines but basically, I wrote just because I enjoy writing.

But what really got me going was some 20-30 years ago when my oldest daughter—who also loves writing (and she’s probably a better writer than I am)—asked me, “Why don’t you write what people like to read—fiction!”

Well, a lot of people also like nonfiction but I decided to pursue her challenge in 2024, and resumed writing in earnest.

It is now a gorgeous day in September, 2025, and I am both relieved but also a bit nostalgic that I don’t have a book project to complete or go over. The tentative title, unless you talk me out of it, is “A Place in the Fold.” It is a faith-related book.

The thing I discovered was that writing fiction was fun! I could make things up as I went: conversations, work in memories from my own growing up years, and just plain enjoyment. I had written lots of articles, scripts, and done research for books that were nonfiction, but this was different. (I did have to be more careful and do some research when it came to writing about medical stuff and doctors and so on. But with our age group, we have friends and relatives where I hear plenty of doctor-related conversations I could work into the book, not a big part of the book).

If you are wondering what it’s about, here’s a quick peek at the back cover copy:

“Who would drive away from a beloved spouse the day before Christmas? Monica Sue Herald did, and untold drama followed. Her husband Timothy, is a well-liked pastor but she cringes every time he uses her for a personal story when preaching. His father is also a pastor several hours away, but they don’t always get along like they should. And what is the secret that Monica’s mother holds in her heart for nearly 30 years, and why?

The novel is placed in the 1990s, before the days of almost everyone having cell phones, which might have changed the outcome of this tale. This book will induce tears of sadness and also joy for many, and also help couples with their precious and loving relationships.” 

Does this sound interesting to you?

Most of us old married folks (and younger ones too) deal with marital squabbles and if we’re lucky, we keep going, keep loving, keep hanging on to our mates.

Later on, I will let you know where and when the book is available—I hope in time for Christmas!

Will there ever be another one? Time will tell. It just feels good to have reached this goal. And to have taken on my daughter’s challenge.

Have you tried something new you never did before?

What was your outcome?

Enjoyable or not?

Thanks for reading this and commenting if you feel like it!