Dear Friends of The Redhead Notes,
I did not plan to write a second blog post this month, but I feel compelled to share what is in my heart. As I think back over the last six weeks, I am both stunned and humbled at your response to The Redhead Notes and my mission in creating it. What started as a simple desire to support the indie author community by leaving a few reviews on Amazon and Goodreads has quickly evolved into so much more. I want to share a timeline that may help you better understand the whirlwind that has occurred in my life since the beginning of December.
- Sometime in September: I opened a Twitter account, so I could find indie books to read and review; however, I didn’t use the account until December 1st.
- December 3rd: I started reading Stalin’s Door while home sick for three days.
- December 9th: I contacted a graphic designer with an idea for a logo.
- December 14th: I contacted my husband’s website designer to start developing a website.
- December 19th: I wrote my first blog post, although I couldn’t post it until the website went live right after Christmas.
- January 5th: I posted my first review, which just happened to be about Stalin’s Door.
My original plan had been to read, review, and feature twelve books and authors throughout 2022. I wasn’t looking to be the most prolific reader and reviewer. I wanted to offer quality and depth in my reviews and pieces that authors could use to promote their work. However, I was unprepared for the number of requests that poured through the website within the first two weeks. I quickly reassessed my ability to manage them, given my other professional and personal obligations. And that is what has led me to add in From the Bookshelf reviews. These reviews will follow the same format as the featured review but will not include the additional author interviews or guest posts. From the Bookshelf reviews will allow me to expand the number of books I can read and review. These reviews will be released throughout each month.
Due to the high volume of requests for book reviews that I received, I have decided to make changes regarding when the website will be open for you to submit your requests. This will allow me to spend more time on reading and reviewing and less time on the administrative aspect. More information will be released as the details are finalized.
Here I sit on January 21st with a website I am extraordinarily proud of that is going through phase two of development, enough submissions to easily take me into fall, and a fantastic group of people I can interact with via various social media accounts. It feels surreal. And I want you each to know just how grateful I am for your kind words and support. I sincerely hope that The Redhead Notes will continue to flourish and grow alongside each of you as you continue your reading and writing endeavors. So, get ready; we’re off the races starting in February!
With Appreciation,
Jennie Griffin
