Susan Draper's Blog

Indiana's beautiful state flower, the peony
 

Good morning, subscribers!   I went to a trivia contest recently.  Our group didn't win but we had a good time trying at Afterburners, located in Terre Haute, IN.  If you enjoy craft beer, welcome cats/dogs, and noisy comaraderie, stop in their brewery to wet your whistle!
Shout out to my author friend, Chris Bradfield, who reminded me that Indiana's state flower is the fragrant peony, pictured above.  Gorgeous, aren't they?  What is your favorite flower?  Mine are roses, carnations, and dahlias. 
I am beyond ready for this last bit of white stuff covering our yard and surrounding areas, TO BE GONE.  My house is sadly devoid of color and in need of a makeover.  I do have a tendency to begin decorating for the changing seasons early.  This is especially true for the warmer seasons of spring and summer. 
It's been a while since my last blog. Writing updates are primarily sent via monthly newsletters. Every now and then, I enjoy sitting down to blog, just like I first did back in 2014.  Blogging provides a deeper look into what makes me tick as a writer and has led to where I am now, a self-published multi-genre author with six books currently availabe.  Poetry, a middle grade science fiction trilogy, mature sci-fi, and my latest work, Lakeshore Secrets, are all available on Amazon.  Look for Night Passage, a spine tingling horror anthology, later this year. 
Lakeshore Secrets is based in Northwest Indiana. Even though our family lived for short periods of time in other cities and states, Da Region was/is where my roots remain.  Some experts advise to write about things that are near and dear to your heart. I tend to do this. During our youth, dad used to throw me and my two older sisters into the car, sans a seat belt, of course.  Off we'd go to one of the many beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan.  After arriving, dad proceeded to throw us into the frigid water, laughing at our wild antics to stay afloat.  Sometimes, parents possess an odd sense of humor and dad sure did. However, each of us learned to swim instead of sinking.  Guess he knew what he was doing.  Love and miss you, dad.
Author Thomas Wolfe quoted that you can't go home again, but when I write it invokes the same nostalgic emotions that enthralled me as a child. I hope my writing can help you do the same, no matter where your roots are planted. Each of us holds on to something from our past.  As time goes by, those cherished memories can fade, sometimes altogether.  In my opinion, it is important to preserve them as much as possible.
I'm excited to report that our author group will host its first book signing of the year at Corsair Cafe & Coffee, in Terre Haute, IN on Saturday, March 22nd, from 10-2.  You won't be disappointed in the great selection of coffee "flights", delicious entrees, and even a revamped gift shop!  Patrons can watch departing/arriving flights because the establishment is located within Regional Airport!  How cool is that? Thank you for hosting us Corsair!  



Another author friend I made last year, Brian Vukadinovich, will co-host a signing on June 28th from 10-2, at Fluid Coffee Roasters.  This family-owned business is located in Chesterton, IN, part of Da Region.  Brian has two incredibly successful books out that are must reads about judicial corruption which he unfortunatley experienced first hand.  Thank God Americans enjoy the right to free speech so those who read our writing can form their own opinions.  
The most thrilling news in this blog however, is not about writing.  We have a new grandson!  Burrow Robert, born on February 6th.  Isnt he the cutest thing ever?  Big sister Aspen is thrilled of course and already mothers him.
Autumn will be three in June.  Goodness, kids grow up so fast.  Be sure to cherish every minute.  Write about it if you can.  Preserve your thoughts for people to read in the future.  
Here are a few pictures of our three grandkids.  Thank you for your continued support of indie authors, small businesses and local libraries.  Until next time...
Burrow Robert-named after Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals!



Big sister Aspen who is 4, holding baby Burrow


Autumn Shayne-sassy girl!

Hawthorne Park
The above image invokes special memories for me. Hawthorne Park, Terre Haute, IN.  A pleasant afternoon spent with my handsome husband, when people went outdoors to keep from going stir crazy.  We all remember.  

I used this beautiful scene on the cover of my poetry book, Random Reflections:  Poems From a Hoosier Girl.  Published in 2020, it was my first self-published book and an eye-opening foray into serious writing.  Since its publication, I have also written a middle grade science fiction series, Cataclysm in the Cosmos, and a mature science fiction novel, Into The Sun.  

Click here! The trilogy is on sale all summer long!

Into The Sun

Into The Sun is available in serial form on Vella (United States only), and Inkitt (international). If you prefer a paperback, please look on Amazon.

What a journey! I now have a monthly newsletter which enables me to communicate with my subscribers.  Don't forget to sign up!  Click the lines in the upper left hand corner of the HOME PAGE.

Kindle Vella is where you'll find my current serial horror anthology, Night Passage.  I write 'nostalgic horror', interspersed with present-day and futuristic tales of doom and terror.  By year's end it should also be availabe in paperback!

                                                                         Night Passage

Needless to say, I continue to take great pleasure in the joy of writing words for you, for me, and the world to see!  Stay tuned for something new by fall.  I do enjoy variety!

My romance author friend, Angela Disano and I will be signing books at the Vigo Country Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 8th.  Thank you, Campbell Creek Books, for hosting area authors!  It's a multi-vendor gala. Come say hello!  

Access all of my writing, art, and social media sites by clicking below!

Author SusanDraper
Our youngest granddaughter, Autumn Shayne, recently celebrated her 2nd birthday!  It was a cowgirl, "Not my First Rodeo" theme.  She had a boot-stompin' time showing off those adorable chaps! 👢
Miss Autumn Shayne, walking into Dodge City!

Swinging with big cousin, Aspen Elizabeth who is 3! 💕

I can't thank everyone enough for your continued support of indie authors, small businesses, and local libraries. Look for my next blog post late in the year. Newsletters go out monthly. Happy Reading!

 I'll be signing books with two other local authors at the Corsair Cafe and Coffee shop, located in beautiful Terre Haute, IN, on Friday, Oct. 20th, from 12-4!  




This eclectic establishment is located within the the Regional Airport complex.  They have famous coffee "flights" and delicious food to enjoy.  The coolest aspect is patrons are able to watch small aircraft take off and land!  A unique gift shop offers an abundance of aviation items that you won't find anywhere else.  Stop in and start your weekend right-with a great read amidst one-of-a-kind surroundings!

I'm excited to have available my latest book, Into The Sun.  This refreshingly different science fiction story was originally published episode by episode on Kindle Vella.  Now, the paperback is ready to be signed and offered to you at a special promotional price.  

I'll also have my middle grade sci-fi series and poetry book, along with a few pieces of artwork.  Signings are very enjoyable because I'm exactly like my parents were.  They loved to chat, especially if coffee was involved.  😀
Thanks to the Vigo County Public Library for recently hosting the Fall Festival of Writers!  They have supported local authors wonderfully and it is very much appreciated.  Please patronize your local libraries and check out all they offer in the events department, particularly for children and young adults. Don't forget, libraries are an easy and affordable way to enjoy audiobooks!  Ask a librarian today about what apps they recommend.
Do you have your house decorated for Halloween yet?  I usually add to my decor all month long.  Let me know what your costume will be this year or what your favorite scary movie is.
Here are some recent pictures taken by my husband Rick and myself.  😊
Our oldest daughter and youngest granddaughter!
Our youngest daughter and oldest granddaughter!
Flowers on water
Mansfield, IN covered bridge
Late season butterfly
Have fun with all your ghosts and goblins!  Try not to eat all their candy.  😂

Look for my next blog after the first of the year.  Get outside as much as possible with a good book!  Like mine. : ))))) Thank you for your continued support. Until then, happy reading!!  📚

 I can't believe the official start of summer is right around the corner!  As a way to thank my loyal readers and subscribers, I will be drawing a random winner of a $20.00 Amazon gift ecard at the beginning of August!  An entry to the drawing can only be received by interacting with me on any  of my social media sites or by commenting on this blog post. You must reference the giveaway and then be so kind to tell me which of my works you have enjoyed the most.  Hurry to get your entry in before the deadline of Aug. 7th, 2023.

Do you have any goals for the summer?  I can recommend a good one.  Sign up for Goodreads and set a reading goal for the remainder of this year-even if it's only for one book!  One book is better than none.  Patronize your local library for a great selection of current releases or longstanding bestsellers.  

My latest compilation of horror stories is now live on Kindle Vella. Check it out!  Please like, favor, follow and comment.  Reviews are also greatly appreciated.

Night Passage

Meadows Shopping Center in Terre Haute, IN will host a Farmer's Market on Saturday, June 17th.  Stop by my author table!

Our author group will have a book signing at the Twelve Points Book Company, also located in Terre Haute, IN, on Saturday, July 8, from 1-4.  Come in for a brew and some books!  Musical entertainment is scheduled after the signing.

In closing, I'd like to share what makes my husband and I the most happy-spending time with the kids and grandkids! 💓 Here are a few shots from Autumn's first birthday party and her older cousin, Aspen. Rick took the close up of Autumn.  It was a wonderful celebration! 

 

My next blog post will be in the fall. The winner of the giveaway will be announced then and will also be posted on my Facebook Author page. Get your entries in!  Happy Reading! 😃

 Happy New Year!  The picture above was taken from my car window not too long ago.  I believe it captures what is hoped to be a bright and successful 2023!  There is no sky as gorgeous as a Hoosier sky, in my humble opinion.    

What are your new year resolutions?  Mine is to enjoy better health for increased quality time with the family. 💗  Monthly newsletters will continue.  However, I'll be reducing blog  posts to three or four times a year in the hopes of achieving my goal.  Thank you for your continued support! : )

Into The Sun is twelve episodes in on Kindle Vella!  Writing it has been extremely satisfying.  In fact, serial fiction has become my new niche.  Remember, all initial readers who sign up receive 500 free tokens to spend on stories!  All likes, follows, and faves are appreciated.  Reviews would be fantastic!  Here is the link for my mature science fiction thriller:  Into The Sun
Cataclysm in the Cosmos, my middle-grade sci-fi series, is readily available at your favorite online retailer.  I offer audiobooks on Google Play and also the ability to purchase paperbacks directly from me!
Direct Purchase Link


Virus Attack
Survival

A New World


When I'm feeling better, I would like to visit area schools so I can help promote my two favorite subjects, space exploration and science!  Young minds are the most impressionable. Please continue reading with your children.  It makes a difference, believe me!  Local libraries are a wonderful source for books and programs.
I hope you all reach as many goals as possible.  The next blog will post when it's warmer outside. 🌞
In closing, here are some adorable pictures of our two beautiful granddaughters, Aspen and Autumn.  They are growing like weeds! 
Aspen Elizabeth-age two

Autumn Shayne-Almost seven months : )



Bestest cousins. 💕

 

Happy November, subscribers!  I hope everyone has been able to get outside and enjoy Mother Nature's beautiful fall colors. This year has gone by very quickly!  We can hardly believe our youngest granddaughter, Autumn Shayne,  recently turned five months old.  Aspen Elizabeth, our oldest granddaughter, turns two later this month.  They are best buds, already.  It's going to be a special Christmas for the family!💓

On Saturday, November 12th, from 10-1,  I will be at the fabulous Red Room Cakery, located in Terre Haute, IN, for a meet and greet author signing! Chef Jamie Chesterson, the owner of this fine establishment, will offer a delectable selection of items to enjoy while you browse great books.  Local romance author Angelina Disano will be joining me!  

My newest material,  Into the Sun, is a mature, science fiction thriller which can be found on Kindle Vella, Amazon's serial writing platform.  The first three episodes are no charge on each and every Vella story.  Kindle is also giving away two hundred tokens to new members so that you can continue to read your favorites! After the free tokens are exhausted, additional amounts may be purchased at a moderate price. 

I really like how Vella enables authors to have their voices heard via this fast-growing platform. It's very convenient for readers because stories are added to your Kindle library for easy access from your phone, tablet, or computer at any time. My episodes will post on Fridays. Click the link below to come aboard Quantum One! All patrons who scan the QR code for my story link will be eligible to win a signed copy of any book I have thus far published!  No purchase necessary. See you Saturday, even if the temperatures are less than favorable. Everything you need to warm up will be inside! 

                                                Into the Sun

Small business Saturday is on November 26th.  The Meadows Shopping Center, also located in Terre Haute, IN, will be holding a mega vendor event.  Visit our author tables for books and artwork from 10-3.  Books make wonderful presents for the holidays! You can knock out your shopping for everyone at this event with so many great booths to check out.

Your continued support of my writing and local business is greatly appreciated.  The next blog will post on January 08, 2023. Happy Holidays to you and yours! 🎄 

Good morning! September kicks off the fall festival season for Indiana and most other states. Hoosiers have so many wonderful choices.  Parke County's Covered Bridge Festival runs from October 14th through the 23rd.  I can practically taste all the usual food items, such as smoked turkey legs, ham and beans, or pumpkin pinwheels!  Yumm!

Our author group enjoyed a wonderful event at the Clinton Eagles recently.  If you were unable to attend, don't worry.  This Saturday, Sept. 10, we will be at the Meadows Shopping Center in Terre Haute, IN, for a fall vendor bazaar.  It's being held in conjunction with the Cruisin' for Kids car show in the center's parking lot.  Come out for culinary delights, beautiful cars, and tons of vendors! After you shop, stick around to hear local music while enjoying a craft beer. You don't want to miss this event.  😀

In other exciting news, my work-in-progress is coming along.  As I stated in my monthly newsletter, it is an adult science-fiction thriller. I plan on releasing it episode by episode via Kindle Vella.  Serial writing ensures plenty of time to help babysit our newest granddaughter, Autumn Shayne.  She recently turned three months old! 
Creating a hardcover trilogy of Cataclysm in the Cosmos is also something I will be doing next year.  Stay tuned for updates to that!

Although I'm sorry to see summer go, it's worth it to see the beautiful change in nature's colors.  Indiana can really be quite gorgeous, as represented in this picture I took last October.

Here are some pictures of Autumn and our other granddaughter, Aspen Elizabeth, who is approaching two.  Wow-time is flying by so very quickly.  💕

Drop a comment below and share your upcoming fall projects or which book you are currently enjoying.  We all share something in common.  A love of writing and reading, be it fiction or non-fiction.  Until November's blog post, happy travels! 📚

Happy July, subscribers!  I am excited to confirm that A New World:  Cataclysm in the Cosmos-Book Three is now available at all your favorite retailers and libraries!
 I am presently running a Google Play promotion.  Order the first two e-books in my series for free!  This promotion runs through the end of July.  Don't forget to order the finale before you go.  Click the link below to jump on this great deal.
Google Play Promotion

Books one through three are also available as AI-narrated audiobooks on Google Play.  This format allows you to listen with your children, anytime or anywhere.
I'm honored to share a five-star review that was recently posted for the third and final book of the series.  Amazon Review.  A heartfelt thank you goes out to Tim Eagle for the kind words.
The Facebook live event I hosted was fun, albeit nerve-racking.  😊  It should get easier, as I become more comfortable speaking to an unseen audience.
My author group has two upcoming signings. The first one is the Local Author Day Farmer's Market at Meadows Shopping Center in Terre Haute, IN, on July 9th from 8-12.  The second signing is at Max & Honey's Flower & Pumpkin Farm in Brazil, IN on July 30th from 9-2.  This is their first market of the season.  Check out the list of wonderful vendors who will be in attendance! Our group will have books and artwork available. Can't wait to see you there!  Summer Market
As promised, here are some pictures of our newest granddaughter, Autumn Shayne!  She is just over one month old. 💗

And here are a couple pictures of Autumn with her older cousin, Aspen Elizabeth!  It was the first time they met.  So sweet!  💕


Since we are in the midst of summer I can't resist a colorful flower picture.  This is my hibiscus. You can imagine you're in a tropical paradise when you look at this beautiful plant.  What is your favorite summertime flower?

I appreciate each and every one of you for your support.  Make sure you are signed up for my monthly newsletter by clicking to the left of my blog site title. Stay tuned for special perks!  In the meantime, keep patronizing local libraries and small businesses in your communities. 😃






 

 

My series finale is available for preorder right now! Cataclysm in the Cosmos is complete.   It's been fun bringing very cool characters to life on a keyboard, word by word.  I wrote this series for our grandchildren and hope to spend many happy hours reading it to them. It won't be long before they'll be reading it by themselves!  Click the link below to order at your favorite online retailer:  A New World: Cataclysm in the Cosmos-Book Three
The manuscript is currently in my editor's talented hands.  I may even be able to release it for publication early!  

On Sunday, May 22, 2022, I will be at the Macksville Coffee Company in West Terre Haute, IN for an in-person reading and signing.  I hope to meet a lot of kids and parents.  The event starts at 11:00. 

 Thanks to the owner, Tracey Rubinacci, for hosting me!  Her establishment already has a great following.   Excellent gourmet coffee and their signature sammi beverage are what they are known for best.  They have delicious food items, also.  What's really cool is the vibe. Local authors' books are on display and every month a different artist's work is showcased.  One entire wall is a floral mural, painted by a talented employee!   I really appreciate their  support.  
I'd love to find out your favorite genres!  Are you a horror junky or maybe romance?  As my audience grows, I'm going to run a giveaway for subscribers who respond to my questions.  Drop me a comment here or shoot me an email:  susandraperauthorandartist@gmail.com
By the time the next blog post drops, not only will the currently struggling Chicago Cubs be in first place, but Rick and I will be the proud grandparents of another granddaughter.  Woohoo!!  Get ready for a few pictures in my next blog which will drop in July.
In the meantime, consider taking some free classes at your local library.  I just enjoyed a great 3-D printing class and can't wait to print some author-related items.  With summer vacation fast approaching, now is the time to sign kids up for cool events at  home-town libraries.  My ebooks can be requested there, too.  : )
Below are some pictures from our recent trip to Brown County, IN! Happy Mother's Day to all!

This is what Spring brings to the eyes of a child. Our granddaughter Aspen is excited for it!  Well, I know it's not quite here yet, but Indiana has been blessed with a few spring-like days already.  Playing outside at parks with mom and dad is everything.  At least while you're still young enough to not be embarrassed by their presence. When it comes down to it, I think most kids would rather go outside and play than anything else.  
That's all my sisters and I did growing up.  Hide and seek, red rover, tag, or team sports played in your own back yard.  The best games continue to be the ones with no expensive equipment needed.  They involve lots of movement which exercises your mind and body.  I'm still a sucker for stuff like that!
Our oldest daughter and her husband are expecting their first baby in June! Needless to say,  little Aspen is going to be thrilled, just like the rest of the family.  Becoming first-time grandparents has gotten better and better.  Rick and I can't wait for the arrival of our second granddaughter!  We're old pros, now. 💓
Do you have any projects that you look forward to accomplishing this spring?   Let me know by leaving a comment!
In other news, A New World:  Cataclysm in the Cosmos-Book 3, is over halfway complete!  I'm starting to think about cover designs and will most likely solicit Get Covers once again for the series finale.  This company is Ukranian based.  Their customer service department is beyond accommodating and the quality of work they provide is phenomenal at an affordable price.  If you are an indie author, like myself, and would like to support them, check out the link.  They communicate well and are always very polite and professional.
Our author group has two upcoming signings!  First, we will be at the Little Bear Coffee Company in Terre Haute, IN, this Saturday, March 12th!  We should be set up by 11:30.
On the 19th of March, the Grand Traverse Pie Company, also in the Haute, will host a repeat signing event beginning at 2:30.  I'm getting hungry thinking about the great food and drinks which these two establishments offer.  Mark your calendars for great reads and delicious feeds! 
The lucky winner of the Amazon ecard has been notified.  Don't worry, another drawing will be held when my novella is released later this year.
In the future, I'll be posting new blogs every two months.  My newsletter will still go out monthly.  We're getting ready for another baby to arrive.  😍
From our house to yours, Happy Spring!  Thank you for your continued support.  
Beautiful Deming Park in Terre Haute, IN