September 23, 2010 – Got my copy of the print version of “Rose In A Storm,” today a special experience for any writer, to get the book in his or her hands, turned it over and give it a good luck squeeze. Emotional, too. I have never gotten warmer advance reviews or stronger pre-orders, and I appreciate it. The book is coming out October 5. The official debut of the “Rolling Rose” tour will be October 8, 7 p.m., at Northshire Books, Manchester Center, Vt.

This is my most intense labor of love, writing wise. Inspired by the real Rose, but not about her literally, it is the natural evolution of my writing and life with dogs. It is an adventure inside the mind of a dog, faithful, to the best of my ability, to the way behaviorists and others believe dogs really think. A hard book to write on every level. It is also an awakening story, a bit of a women’s story, and a bit of mystical fable. I am proud of it. I think it is the best writing I have done to date and I am eager to get out on the road and talk about it, and sell some books.

I am so grateful to Jennifer Hershey, my editor at Random House, for the incredibly clear – and tough – guidance she provided to me. It was quite an experience. “Rose” will also be available as an e-book on October 5, and I am glad it will be widely available across the spectrum. I feel strongly that the real Rose – the book is dedicated to her – should get at least one appearance. She doesn’t like public events, or bookstores, but I am taking her to the Barnes & Noble at Saratoga Springs at 5 p.m. on the 5th, which is traditionally where  I go to sign some books on my publication dates. They always seem to be expecting me, even though it’s not an official event and I won’t be reading from “Rose,” unless somebody asks me.

Anyway, thanks to those of you who have been along for this ride. I appreciate it. Very exciting day for me. My first novel in a decade, and the first work of fiction from Bedlam Farm. Not the last.