Last 2 months of the year - starting to think about the great reads of 2012

2012 started off as an ok reading year.  Over the summer, I wasn't sure how many books I'd read I'd actually put on my best books from 2012 list.  I was starting to despair I'd have a list at all!  

After the last few months, I can honestly say that I have read some unforgettable stories.  I'm really looking forward to putting the list together in a couple of months, but even more than that, I am looking forward to the books I have yet to read in the next 2 months.

I read a mixture of books -- Kindle self-published ebooks from the free list, books downloaded from the library written by best selling authors and audio books I get from the library (usually from authors I've never heard of).  My search criteria for books has been wide open.  I always read books by authors whose books I enjoyed in the past and I always read books given to me by authors (although it can take me a while to get them onto my Kindle if I don't get them from Amazon). 

As an author on goodreads.com, I get a lot of wonderful recommendations from fellow authors and readers.  I also have had interaction with authors of books I've liked on goodreads and as a reader, that is such a thrill!

It's really great to be a part of the writing/reading community.  I know there are a lot of writers who do not interact with their readers and there are a lot of writers who do not read. 

There are also a lot of readers who write and a lot of readers who have no interest in writing. 

For me, I'm happy to hear from everyone within the community and learn what makes each group happy as readers.

Writing makes me happy.  I want to be a better writer and take my readers on a once in a lifetime journey.  The story has to be compelling and reach to the reader's heart.  The characters have to be people we care about and enjoy spending time "experiencing." 

Is it embarassing to be imperfect as a writer?  YES!

I'm learning from my readers.  Keep the language tight and simple.  My new mantra for 2013:  EDIT!
Readers are forgiving if the story is good but they don't want to be left on the side of the road with a flat tire.  The journey needs to be flawless so they can see the beautiful sites.

Is there a better feeling in the world than sharing a beautiful journey with another?

Not for me.