Читать книгу Protected Secrets - Heather Woodhaven - Страница 9

Dear Reader,

This was probably the hardest story for me to write thus far, though perhaps I think that of every book I’ve just finished.

During the writing of this book, my son’s recovery from a routine surgery became a nightmare. For a brief moment, I thought we’d lost him. I’ll never forget that night, and I’m abundantly thankful for the doctor who wasn’t even supposed to still be there and the on call surgery team that arrived impossibly fast during rush hour. After two weeks of little sleep, my son fully recovered and is doing better than ever.

Toward the end of writing, my sweet dog, and the inspiration for Tracking Secrets, collapsed in the living room and took her last breath. She’d been by my side for the past eleven years, usually trying to put her head on top of the laptop while I typed or flopping on my feet so I had no choice but to keep writing. I’m thankful I have nothing but fond and hilarious memories of her. She was the ideal dog for our family.

So my emotional rollercoaster may have seeped through the pages of the book. It served as a reminder that if you haven’t experienced some things yourself, you might not understand. Even with research. My apologies if I portrayed any aspect of the adoption journey incorrectly as I haven’t been part of an adoption personally.

Delaney’s journey compelled me. She could accept God’s forgiveness but had a harder time forgiving herself. I think everyone battles the tendency to some extent. Winnie has similar traits to my youngest and a certain precocious niece. She was a delight to write. And finally, Iowa is an amazing place to grow up. I’m glad I was able to set the story there. I hope to visit again soon.

Blessings,

Heather Woodhaven