Sharing excerpts of Cry Baby Cry is gratifying to me for two reasons. One, it is exciting to share what I’ve written which motivates me to continue writing, but also because I am hoping people who read these bits and pieces will feel as excited for the release of the book as I am.

As writing continues, however, it’s getting harder and harder to find things to share without spoiling the plot for those eager to read the whole thing. I have to constantly ask, am I releasing Too Much Information, or dropping just enough bread crumbs to lead you on without spoiling the story?

I hope today’s entry on Birthing the Next Book provides just enough info without going overboard into TMI. Click the quote below to read the new teaser.

Then suddenly his arms were around her and she was pulled close to his chest. She stiffened at first, but he felt so good, he smelled so good—all man and dried sweat and some remnant of aftershave.

After some welcome distractions (the birth of my first grandbaby, Ellie Sophia) and some unwelcome ones (like dealing with water damage in our kitchen and dining room) I am finally getting back to serious work on the next Street Story Novel, Cry Baby Cry.

My goals now are to finish the first draft by May 1, have edits completed by the end of May, and get the book released in time to take copies with me when I participate in Chicago’s Printers Row Festival Sunday, June 10.

To meet those goals, I am calling on friends, family and fans to hold me accountable. I don’t care how you do it. You can bug me by asking me “How many words did you write today?” every time you see me, or shame me if my answer is “Um, none,” or encourage me by telling me you can’t wait to find out what happens to Jo next time, or leave glowing reviews of the Street Stories books you’ve already read.

And you can start by clicking the quote below to read the latest excerpt posted on my Birthing the Next Book blog and let me know what you think. I would love to dedicate Cry Baby Cry to everyone who does even the tiniest bit to help me get this book done.

Jo turned to see Martin Oberhaus smiling widely. His teeth were as white and well ordered as the lion’s mane of hair on his head. He could have been the grandfather of the family pictured on the poster.