IN PART, the email from Janet Dailey: one of the most popular female authors in the world with over 100 novels, 325 million copies sold in nineteen languages and in ninety-eight countries.

"Linda,

If this is your first novel-good job. Historicals are favorites of mine regardless of the time period or setting. Having written a few of them myself, I know the endless detail that's required-clothing, food, occupations, lifestyles, etc. I was very impressed with the obvious research you did into the subject matter and time period. Very well done.

" . . .

"Normally, I wouldn't spend this much time critiquing someone else's work. But Your writing style-your distinctive voice-is so good-shows such quality, skill and merit, that I want so much to encourage you to keep writing. ...

"There is no doubt in my mind that you have the talent to be a writer, ...

"Good luck and keep writing.

Sincerely,

Janet Dailey"