June 16th, 2008

The associate editor that worked on the book A Beautiful Mine sent me an advanced copy last week. I think it’s a pretty book and will be a nice addition to the collection. The story of women prospectors of the Old West hasn’t been explored much so I’m glad Globe gave me a chance to write about the subject. The book was dedicated to Patti Ferree. She is a wonderful woman who runs a business in Nevada County and has been nothing but kind, especially with regards to my brother. She befriended him, wrote him long letters, and lifted his spirits. Just as I believe there is evil that I’ve personally known, I believe there are angels I’ve come in contact with. Patti is one of those angels. I can only imagine how much better my brother’s life would have been if he had married someone like Patti. I have free copies of A Beautiful Mine to give away to anyone who emails me and asks to be on the mailing list. Next to be released, Frontier Teachers: Schoolmarms of the Old West. I’m off to a signing this evening in Placer County. I’m looking forward to the drive through the historic countryside. I’m excited to send copies of A Beautiful Mine out so let me know via email if you’d like to give it a read.