I just received the Winter issue of CT Genealogy News, the quarterly publication of the Connecticut Society of Genealogists (CSG). I knew it would feature an article about my being the 2024 recipient of the Richard G. Tomlinson Literary Award for my novel, Nothing Really Bad Will Happen, but I wasn’t expecting such a glowing review.
As much as I try to shake off the grip of “imposter syndrome,” it’s still a struggle. However, reading phrases like “captivating story,” “seamlessly brings in other members of the family,” and “a page-turner” was undeniably gratifying. Yet, there was one paragraph in particular that affirmed I had accomplished what I set out to do with this book:
“Her mother’s innocence as a young child and her grandmother’s determination to shield and protect her daughter come through the pages and touch the reader’s heart.”
When I began writing, I thought I was crafting a straightforward narrative about my great-grandfather’s legacy. But as the story unfolded, it transformed into something much more profound: a testament to resilience, especially my mother’s. To know that readers connected with my mom and felt her presence through the pages brings me an unexpected comfort. She’s been gone for some time now, but I miss her every single day. Having readers come to know her through this novel feels like a way to keep her close.
I’m also grateful to know that my siblings are proud of me. And, if I’m honest, I’m a little proud of myself, too. As Casey wrote in her review for the CSG:
“Deborah’s story is to be commended. She walked the line of writing a family story with history and well-documented facts, accomplishing what most people dream of doing—sharing a family story to be remembered for all time.”
Reading that line felt like a culmination of all the effort, heartache, and joy that went into this book. It’s a privilege to share this family story, and I hope it continues to resonate with readers for years to come.
nothingreallybadwillhappen.com 