Words to live by

Like many writers, the Corona Virus has affected, not only my ability to promote my latest novel, but my desire to continue writing. My inner voice - you know the one - that pesky, demeaning voice that's always saying you're not nearly good enough to write let alone publish your work. It kept saying that no one read or liked my books, that it was stupid to continue working so hard for nothing. As a result, I've done very little writing over the past six months as I had pretty much decided that "Reilly"s Dilemma" would be my final novel - that is, until today. I received the following email from a reader and wanted to share it with you, so you can see how much words of encouragement can affect someone who is having a hard time. So, be sure to tell someone that you appreciate them or their work. You might be surprised at how much those words mean - they could even change a life. Read on:
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"Hi Joan! I wanted to let you know that I finished "Reilly's Dilemma", and enjoyed it so much!! I'd like to say it's my favorite, but I'm still really partial to "Halifax". I'm unqualified to "review", but here are my thoughts if you're interested in them. This was the most enjoyable book I've read in a really long time! The pace was perfect for me, with just enough "can't put it down" tempered by "enjoying it so much I want to savor it"! The characters, as always, are so real and believable, yet delightfully unpredictable. I found the book generally so satisfying, which is not a word I've ever used for a book! At the finish, I just felt like it was all complete, finished, ready to end. Not to say that I'm not looking forward to a sequel, because I'd love to follow these characters a little more. I actually took a week after finishing the book to just let it "simmer" in my thoughts. All in all, it was a lovely trip. Thanks so much ... I appreciate your talent!"