It’s been awhile since I’ve written a blog post, but with the winter months approaching and my sixteenth medical thriller A HEARTBEAT AWAY finalized for a February 15th release, I figured it appropriate to take a moment and reflect upon some of what I am thankful for in my life as a writer.

First of all, given the current e-book surge I’d like to dedicate this blog post to the Independent Bookstores. Don’t get me wrong—I’m still very much appreciative of the larger retailers too. In fact, my son Daniel and I meet frequently at a Barnes & Noble to read and assist one another on our latest projects. We seldom come away without at least a couple of books, even though we each have an e-reader.

But as an author who has patronized many Independent Bookstores over the years, I have been witness to the hard work, passion for books and writers, commitment, and imaginative marketing that have helped to keep reading alive in our communities. The dedication and enthusiasm that these stores exhibit inspires authors like myself to experiment, take chances, collaborate, and get involved with readers on a more personal basis.

So this season I’m extending my thanks to The Independent Booksellers, and my hopes that they can weather the storm of change within our industry. I’ve compiled a (growing) list below of bookstores that I’ve been connected to online, through e-mail, Facebook, and Twitter. My goal is to be a reminder to readers and writers alike of the role that the independents play in our communities and neighborhoods. Indie store owners and employees are truly my kind of bookkeepers. If I’ve left out your favorite Independent Bookstore, please comment below to add it.

Thanks, have a wonderful holiday and keep on reading.

Warm Regards,

Michael

On pub date, Tuesday, 2/16/10, the Red Sox Foundation, Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program, and THE LAST SURGEON will join together to present BOOKS AND BANDS FOR OUR TROOPS, a fundraiser featuring ten of the top authors in the country and two of the hottest bands. Best sellers Lee Child, Tess Gerritsen, Gary Braver, Lisa Gardner, Joseph Finder, Andre Dubus III, Mark Vonnegut, William Martin, Sandra Lee, Hank Phillippi Ryan, and Michael Palmer will be featured, and will talk about their work, personalize books, and auction off the right to have a character named after the highest bidder. The Thaddeus Hogarth and James Montgomery bands will blow the roof off The Paradise Club, 967 Commonwealth Ave; BOSTON. Red Sox memorabilia and tickets will be raffled off. VIP tickets (6 P.M., limited to 100) are $100+service charge, and standard admission (6:45 P.M) is $30+service charge. Also featured will be the best desserts in Boston. Order now, because tickets are going fast. This promises to be the event of the year. Questions, call the Home Base Program 617-643-7350.

Home Base Books & Bands event Web page:
http://www.homebaseprogram.org/events/bb/

Buy tickets from Live Nation Website:
http://www.livenation.com/edp/eventId/416722