Today is the official pub day of Return to Willow Lake. I’m so grateful to all the readers who helped make it a bestseller in hardcover. Now, paperback fans will find it in stores. You can also find the book in audio and digital formats, and in lots of different languages.
The hardcover edition was published during an exciting time in my life.
And I’m excited about the paperback, but for me, there’s something bittersweet about the publication of this particular book. When I first conceived the story, I knew I would be dealing with some big issues
Just out in paperback
. However, I didn’t know how personal the central issue would become for me.
One of the storylines in the novel involves a young woman returning home to help her mother through the ordeal of breast cancer. Now, on the eve of the paperback publication, I’ve discovered that one of my best friends has just been diagnosed with cancer.
Loretta is a wife, a mom, a sister, a friend. She’s facing the fight of her life.
So in addition to the dedication in the printed book, I would like to unofficially dedicate the paperback edition to my beloved friend, Loretta. She’s sharing her journey on a blog, and I’m so proud of the courage and humor in her writing, and in the responses from her friends and family. Here’s a link to her most heart touching post. Keep the Kleenex handy. You’ve been warned. http://blog.lorettastanton.com/?p=114#comments
The View From Here 
7 comments
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March 11, 2013 at 3:59 pm
Tom
Lovely gesture for Loretta, a lovely person.
February 26, 2013 at 11:03 am
Deanna Kaulay
Oh Susan,,, you are simply the best. So heartfelt and personal. Loretta has been a good friend to all who have the privilege to know her and now it is coming back to her over and over in so many kind ways. She cried when she told me about your dedication and now I’m crying too. You are one of the most generous people I know. Thank you.
February 26, 2013 at 10:58 am
Pam
Your friend will be in my prayers. My mother has recently fought her second battle with cancer and we just lost her mom at 98 to cancer.
February 25, 2013 at 3:44 pm
Raymond Roop
Great book!! Best wishes to your friend, will keep her In our thoughts and prayers
February 25, 2013 at 10:52 am
Claire
Made me cry too…thanks Susan… as an avid reader of your books and one of my sisters best friends this means so much. It is comforting seeing the love and support she has from her friends since her siblings live so far away.
February 25, 2013 at 10:29 am
Diana
Thanks so much Susan…you’ve made me cry…Loretta really is a great sister!
February 25, 2013 at 9:27 am
Kathleen O
I will pray for your friend and hope that all goes will for her.. All we can do is be there for out friends as you will be for Loretta… God Bless her.