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Mariana Shoats
A literature and creative writing teacher, I've always participated in either an informal writing group or literature/ writing classes. Reading and writing have been my favorite hobbies.
In Novemb...view moreA literature and creative writing teacher, I've always participated in either an informal writing group or literature/ writing classes. Reading and writing have been my favorite hobbies.
In November, 2011 I was diagnosed with an aggressive, invasive breast cancer. I spent months in treatment. It was awful: 4 months of chemotherapy; surgery/recovery/physical therapy; 37 doses of radiation. Many days I was homebound: sick and side-effected out of socialization. I found myself too panicky to concentrate on reading or writing. I was scared stiff and bored silly.
Racking my brain for something meaningful to do, I remembered a historical romance I'd written a few years ago. 3 weeks into my cancer treatments, I opened that manuscript file and became absorbed in editing the story. It was an easy and compelling read: a love story set in Rome in 1858. It had a villain - but not as treacherous a villain as cancer. And it had a happy ending - exactly what I was hoping for in my situation. Surprisingly, the edit was enhanced by my experience with the disease. The unselfish goodwill and innate compassion shown to me by so many women resulted in a subplot about the bond of female friendship during crisis.
Now I've partnered with Avon Breast Cancer Crusade and have published the novel, The Lover's Hand, as an e-book for my fundraiser: END SAD ENDINGS. 100% of the profit made from sales will go to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade to support their mission of providing access to care and finding a cure. To avoid any question of self-promotion, I've published under a pseudonym.
20 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer every hour. They deserve a happy ending to their plight. I'm hoping you will read The Lover's Hand and, if you enjoy it, spread word about it to friends you think might like the book and the idea of contributing to a cause that will save lives. Please know how deeply I appreciate your help.view less