The Heirloom Murders is officially in print. It was published a little earlier than expected, actually. That means I’ve already had the pleasure of hearing from readers.
Book 2 in the Chloe Ellefson Historic Sites mysteries.
For the most part I don’t blog about my own books, but I do want to say how much I appreciate all the personal connections that the two Chloe Ellefson mysteries have brought into my life.
I’ve had the chance to re-connect with many friends from the 1980s and 1990s. Most recently, I did a program at Muskego Public Library. I was greeted by the president of the Friends group, which had sponsored my visit to Muskego. She was someone I’d worked with years ago, but hadn’t seen in many years. I’ve had similar, equally wonderful surprises at several programs.
Sandi Snyder and me, Muskego Library (photo by Patricia Nakamura)
I’ve also learned new things about friends and acquaintances. I never knew how many people had cherished pieces of Norwegian folk art in their own homes, often created by an ancestor, until Old World Murder was published. (OWM features a missing carved and painted ale bowl.) A couple of people sent photos, which I loved receiving.
I’ve heard from people I’ve never met, but who once lived in Eagle or New Glarus and wrote to tell me how much fun they had picturing places as they read.
And I’ve made new friends—readers who come to programs and take the time to let me know about their own interest in history. One person sent me an article she’d written. Another sent poetry. How cool is that?
So for everyone who has been in touch—in person, here at Sites and Stories, on my Facebook page, via email or letter—thank you.
Finally, congratulations to the three winners in the Heirloom Murders pre-order contest. Lori O. of Bismarck, ND, chose a personalized copy of Putting Down Roots: Gardening Insights From Wisconsin’s Early Settlers; Jennifer R. of Andover, MA, choose a bookstore gift certificate; and Barb J. of Eagle, WI, chose a gift certificate from Seed Savers Exchange.
Tags: The Heirloom Murders
Sites and Stories 
September 1, 2011 at 12:15 pm |
Dear Kathleen,
Your writing journey has taken you to so many old and new friends, new information and ideas as reflected here. These unexpected rewards are lavish gifts that I hope you cotinue to receive and enjoy!
Arletta
September 22, 2011 at 1:34 pm |
Absolutely loved Heirloom Murders, as well as Old World Murder. Your characters are so “true to heart,” and I’m learning a lot about an area of history I know nothing about…Looking forward to book #3!
September 22, 2011 at 8:00 pm |
Thanks so much, Ann!
May 19, 2012 at 6:35 am |
[…] And for something completely different, Kathleen Ernst has written a book called The Heirloom Murders (just featured on Inkspot) includes the importants of preserving heirloom plants and seeds. I was disappointed to discover my library doesn’t have it. You can also visit her homepage here and her blog entry about the book here. […]
May 19, 2012 at 11:42 am |
Thanks so much for sharing! This series is still relatively new, so I greatly appreciate your comment. I am passionate about heirloom gardening, and love connecting with others who are too.
And to all readers…if your library doesn’t yet carry the Chloe Ellefson series, try making the suggestion! Many librarians have told me that they take suggestions from patrons very seriously.