Wednesdays in the Grove

There are a few moments in the writing process that rise above the rest:

• The moment when you realize a story actually works

• The moment when an editor gives you an enthusiastic "yes!"

• The moment when that story finally makes it out into the world.

Today is the third moment. I am thrilled to announce that my story, "Wednesdays in the Grove" is part of Romance for all Seasons: Festive Fall.

For anyone keeping track (besides me, that is) this is the fourth issue of Romance for All Seasons and the fourth time I've had a story appear in its pages. I am, frankly, delighted but blown away. I'm the geeky sci-fi type, and yet I've had contemporary romance stories appear in this publication for the last year! I guess I am also a big-ole-romantic too.

"Wednesdays in the Grove" is a story that takes place in the same location over many, many years as our couple meet, part, and dance the dance of romance. The location is a gloriously dense aspen grove on the San Francisco Peaks during fall's peak leaf season, a perfect place to fall in love.

This is a very romantic story. The editors in their acceptance said, "This one brought tears to our eyes."

Here's the blurb:

Whether you call it Fall or Autumn, the end of the summer season is a great time for romance! Shorter days mean longer nights as sticky summer heat and humidity give way to crisp, cool breezes filled with the possibility of new love in the air. Not to mention a hint of magic!

That’s right. We said magic! For our Festive Fall issue, Romance for All Seasons is excited to include stories that mix magic and romance along with stories whose heroes and heroines have their feet firmly planted in the real world.

Penned by a group of amazing short story writers, each of these tales will leave you believing in true love and happily-ever-afters!

“A Wolf By Any Other Name” by Annie Reed

“The Last House on the Hill” by Charley Marsh

“The Autumn Fox” by Jessi Hammond

“Apples and Other Sweet Surprises” by Jason A. Adams

“The Golden Valley Homecoming Kings” by Kristine Kathryn Rusch

“Trick and Treat” by Rebecca M. Senese

“Always Remember September” by Rei Rosenquist

“In the Shoulder Season” by Dory Crowe

“A Real Human Connection” by Johanna Rothman

“Magic’s Distant Spark” by Lisa Silverthorne

“Trick or Treat Triathlon” by David H. Hendrickson

“Wednesdays in the Grove” by Robert J. McCarter

I'm very happy with this story and delighted to have it appearing alongside such other fabulous writers. Be sure to check it out!