Michigan & Rookie--On the Move!

It’s been a crazy-busy fall with book events scheduled in Minnesota, Michigan, and South Dakota. I’ll start with a few highlights from Joaquin’s visit to Minnesota in October, sort of a whirlwind weekend with three funfilled events packed into two days!

Ironworks – Men’s Ministry (Friday morning-6:30 am!) at Berean Baptist Church in Burnsville. The men's group is studying The Micah Project, based on the verse, Micah 6:8. As Pastor Roger Thompson shared with the men in attendance, Joaquin’s story and 22-year career in law enforcement tied in perfectly with their theme of justice in today’s world.

Minnesota Book Club with host Sandy Beaudette, Friday evening at 7pm:

This was the same delightful group of book lovers that had read Hidden Heritage this summer and invited me to their meeting in June, so in a way it was like spending the evening with old friends. When Joaquin and I (and Rookie!) arrived at the Beaudette’s, delicious smells emanated from the house immediately luring us inside. Sandy put out a wonderful spread of nummy creations…appetizers, salads, daughter Jennifer’s  delicious pico de gallo, scrumptious sandwiches, topped off with homemade apple crisp for dessert.



The evening was especially fun because everyone had already read Michigan & Rookie so they had lots of questions, wanting to know more about Joaquin’s stirring story. A few of the husbands even stayed, equally eager to hear Joaquin share more of the details. And in this more intimate setting, Joaquin was able to open up about some of the things we weren’t able to include in the book.

 And like everywhere we go, Rookie pretty much stole the show. His beautiful coloring, incredibly soft fur, and easy-going temperament (unless ordered otherwise!) draw people to him like a magnet.

 A big thank you to Sandy and Jennifer for hosting such a warm and wonderful evening!

Book signing at Barnes & Noble, Saturday afternoon at 1 pm:

Our last event of the weekend was a book signing at the Apple Valley Barnes & Noble Bookstore. Not sure how many to expect, John and Joaquin commandeered a big table near the windows (instead of the end-table and single chair set in the aisle), which turned out to be a smart move. We had a nice-sized crowd of friends and family who took time out of their busy Saturday to join us. The windowed corner gave us plenty of room, and the beautiful October sunshine made the perfect backdrop to our afternoon presentation!

So far book sales (and book reviews!) have exceeded our expectation. We really appreciate everyone who has supported us by coming out to one of our events. It’s especially fulfilling when people tell us they are buying the book as a gift for someone special in their life. More than anything, we love hearing how the book has touched those who have read it.

All for now,

Barbara