We are more than halfway through October. It’s been hot and we were without power for almost two weeks. Our internet was just restored yesterday. I am finally able to begin posting. Of course I am way behind. One day at a time. Books are beginning to arrive on my doorstep once again. Some of them are tomes. I have a lot of reading to do. I’m currently working on the programs for two events in November. It’s exciting to be able to function somewhat normally again. I know there are those of you who might not have been able to concentrate the past several weeks. It sure took me a while.
I’m looking forward to much cooler mornings later this week. We know our version of fall is just around the corner. It can’t come soon enough.
For those of you who have homes here in SW Florida and stayed to weather the storm, I pray you and your families are safe and well. For those of you who own homes here in SW Florida, I hope you will arrive for the winter to find your homes undamaged. We are all in this together. Everyone is doing a super job rebuilding already.
It’s heartbreaking to see pictures of Sanibel Island and Captiva, Pine Island and Matlacha. I have also heard that the author Robert Macomber lost his home in St. James City. I am grateful he is safe. Two bookstores on Sanibel, Gene’s and Macintosh, both sustained extensive damage. But I think they will return. We need them. Copperfish in Punta Gorda came through the storm with almost no damage. So happy for them.
I have been in touch with Abraham Verghese throughout the days before and during the storm. He lives on the California coast. He was very concerned for all of us. I had just received a copy of his manuscript for THE COVENANT OF WATER a week before the storm hit. It is not published until May of next year.
Looking forward to seeing those of you who will be attending my speaking engagements in Estero and in Fort Myers next month. I have a lot of great book stuff to share.
I hope you have some good reading material…. I will have more recommends soon.
Read and be safe.
Maurice on Books 
When you speak in Estero and Ft Myers is it public or private? I’d love to attend if it is public. Otherwise I’ll wait for your booklist.
Glad you are feeling better and life is on the mend.
Dawn Drayton (Bonita Bay)
Sent from my iPad
Can you provide information on your upcoming events? Dates, location, availability! Many thanks
Please share your reading engagements as I would love to hear you.
Hi Jean,
Thank you for the heartfelt newsletter. We here at The Verandah look forward to seeing you next month! Susan
Jean, I’m so glad you survived the hurricane and shingles. I heard you speak last season at Tiberon, and have been following your (Maurice’s) emails ever since. Thank you for all the book recommendations. I wish you well.
Where are your speaking engagements? Thanks