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Roberta Fernandez

Roberta Fernandez

Minnesota, United States

Roberta Fernandez is a novelist from Minnesota. She is also a serial entrepreneur, having founded six very different businesses. A sequel to A Knock on the Door is currently in the works.

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About the author

In my sixty three years of life, I didn't know that I had a story waiting to be told. A serial entrepreneur, I have founded six very different businesses, but never saw writing on my radar.

In 2006, I attended a week-long memoir writing class in Guatemala, conducted by a best-selling author whose worked I had followed since the 80's. Joyce Maynard was much kinder to me than I was to myself, and she worked hard to get my best work out of me, in spite of myself. While it was a wonderful experience, I determined that writing, especially about myself, was not a talent I possessed.

The workshop did, however, give me confidence to write in a more structured way for my profession. I'm a Board Certified Hypnotist. I've self-published two books, written curriculums, and blogged topical and inspirational content online regularly for the past seven years.

Fifteen years after the Guatemala workshop, I used self-hypnosis to find the inspiration to write something fun. I love relatable characters that I feel I know intimately. I'm excited to watch the story unfold as I type, and I wonder what's going to happen next. That's what I hope my readers will experience. A sequel to A Knock on the Door is currently being written, and I've got two more ideas tumbling around in my head. Who knows what words will flow across the screen in the next fifteen years!
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A Knock on the Door

A Knock on the Door is about two women who uncover a murder and vow to expose the killer. Tme is running out and they find that their own names are on the kill list. The path which the truth takes them on is one they never could have suspected. Do they have the courage and the ability to bring down the Director of the National Security Agency?

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Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense
81,509 words
100% complete
10 publishers interested

Synopsis

Lori Crawford's world is turned upside down when her husband dies in a car accident. After 25 years of marriage, she thought she would live an uncomplicated, happy life with Jack forever. But just as Lori feels she's coming out on the other side of her grief, Rita, Jack's assistant at SpringWare, discovers information that convinces her that Jack was murdered.

Jack was like a son to sixty-three year old Rita Johnson. They'd worked side by side for twenty years. She was not going to fail to expose the truth about Jack's death like she had failed in her relationship with her own daughter.

The two women vow to bring the perpetrators to justice. But time is running out as this fast-paced drama unfolds, and their names are on the kill list. The path the truth takes them on is one they never could have suspected. Was it even possible to link what they found at SpringWare to their prime suspect?

Enlisting the help of software developer Jacob Browning, small town homicide reporter Nathan Shilling, and washed-up beat cop Matthew Abernathy, they set out to bring down one of the the most powerful men in the country, the Director of the National Security Agency. But who will believe them? And how many more will die before they did? Now they have to decide if they have the courage, and the ability, to finish what they started.

Sales arguments

  • The two strong women in this book will be appealing to the women, who make up more than half of the readers in this genre.
  • Since the defection of Edward Snowden, non-fiction and fiction books about the NSA have been good sellers in the marketplace.
  • People enjoy rooting for underdogs. The characters in this book, and myself as a novelist, are average people doing something with great conviction that they never dreamed possible.
  • I have a strong network of over 1000 LinkedIn and Facebook followers, 150 of whom I am closely associated.
  • I belong to an organization of women who are very supportive in helping each other succeed in any of our endeavors

Similar titles

  • Digital Fortress by Dan Brown, published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks, Jan 2004. A highly successful book, the story explores the dilemma that technology presents to a person's privacy. My book also has that focus and raises the question of what could happen if dangerous technology was in the hands of someone we are supposed to be able to trust. It is fast-paced, engaging readers so they don't want to put it down.
  • Deep State by Chris Hauty, published by Atria/Emily Bestler Books, 1/2020. This book explores the current political conspiracy theories about a Deep State undermining the US government. My book is not at all referring to an entire governmental plan, but to one unhinged individual in power.
  • There are also many non-fiction books about the NSA such as Undaunted: My Fight Against America’s Enemies, At Home and Abroad, and Permanent Record. Since the Edward Snowden case there has been much written about the secrecy of the NSA. My book explores how this secrecy could undermine our freedom and the democratic principles upon which this country was founded. It speaks to the tenuous power of the average citizen to stand up to corruption at the highest level.

Audience

Gathering information from 3 different references* the most popular genres include mystery, thriller and crime novels. More than half of the readers buy this genre and more than half are women over the age of 50. A Knock on the Door features characters who are women ages 45 and 63 who are determined to bring a criminal to justice. This will appeal to the demographics of the readers in this genre, and to those that enjoy a fast-paced story that keep you fully engaged with all of the characters. *Resources: https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.sistersincrime.org/resource/resmgr/imported/ConsumerBuyingBookReport.pdf https://www.thebookdesigner.com/2016/07/reader-audiences-analytics-really-reveal/ https://bookadreport.com/book-market-overview-authors-statistics-facts/

Advance praise

"Well, this was riveting! Truthfully, I couldn't put it down. I love books with this kind of pace." Carole H.

"Great book and congrats. I’m sure many more will enjoy it also. I loved it.......finish whatever you need to do and get it published. Stayed up late to finish it!" Sharon D.

"Our book club has been together for 20 years. After staying up late to finish reading your book, I sent them an excerpt. It'll be our book of the month in May and we want you to join us so we can ask you questions about it. I loved it!" Karen B.

"Please tell me there will be a sequel to this book!" Jessica M.

10 publishers interested
Amplify Publishing Group logo Amplify Publishing Group

Amplify Publishing is a leading hybrid publishing company best known for its work with thought leaders and industry experts across various industries. With comprehensive editorial, design, marketing, production, and distribution services, our authors have the support of an experienced publishing team while still retaining full approval and intellectual property rights.

Hybrid publisher

Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Business & Money, Corporate Culture, Current Affairs, Current Affairs, Economics, Education, Entrepreneurship & Small Business, Entrepreneurship & Small Business, Journalism, Management & Leadership, Management & Leadership, Marketing & Sales, Mindfulness & Happiness, Money & Investment, Motivation & Inspiration, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Philosophy, Politics & Social Sciences, Popular Science, Productivity & Time Management, Psychology, Society & Culture, Sports & Outdoors, Technology & the Future

Worldwide

Ballast Books logo Ballast Books

250 copies • Partial manuscript.
Ballast Books is a full-service hybrid publisher that handles all aspects of book creation, design, publishing, marketing, distribution, and platform building. We help our authors sell more books, secure more keynotes, do more consulting, earn more customers, and book more media appearances.

We want to work with the best of the best: Former Special Operations Forces, CEOs, big thinkers, industry-leading experts. Top-performing people with experiences worth sharing and skills that translate into a larger message and goal.

We've seen particular success with military memoirs, but we've also recently hired a children's book specialist, so we run the spectrum of genres. We're a small but growing team and take pride in dedicating more time and energy to all our authors than traditional publishers.

Hybrid publisher

All categories

, United States

Greenleaf Book Group logo Greenleaf Book Group

Greenleaf Book Group is a publisher and distributor specializing in developing independent authors and thought leaders. We designed our publishing model to support the independent author and to make it possible for writers to retain the rights to their work and still compete with the major publishing houses. We have the capability to take your book idea through full project development and production all the way to bookstore shelves. Our award-winning team works with you to create an exceptional book and design a custom-built strategy to ensure its success in the retail market.

Thousands of projects later and with over 50 New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers, our award-winning editorial and design, robust marketing, and expert distribution capabilities have led to partnerships with some of the most influential thought leaders and independent publishers worldwide. Greenleaf’s hybrid publishing model is uniquely positioned to offer the benefits of both traditional and self-publishing. We provide you with unmatched publishing and distribution services; you keep creative control, intellectual property, and most of the royalties.

When we accept a title for publication or distribution, we assign it to one of our imprints. Though production work is the same for all imprints, our imprint recommendation determines our distribution and marketing strategies based on genre, author platform, and demand-generation plan. Our world-class imprints are Greenleaf Book Group Press (our flagship imprint), River Grove Books (our digital-first imprint), Fast Company Press (our imprint partnership with Fast Company Magazine), An Inc. Original (our print partnership with Inc. Magazine), and BrainTrust Ink (our imprint partnership with BrainTrust).

Hybrid publisher

Children Fiction, Christian Fiction, Comics & Graphic Novels, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, LGBT Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mind & Body, Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense, Mythology & Folk Tales, Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Women's Fiction, YA Fiction, Art & Photography, Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Career & Success, Christian Non-Fiction, Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Communication Skills, Corporate Culture, Crafts & Hobbies, Creativity, Current Affairs, Economics, Education, Entrepreneurship & Small Business, Health, Fitness & Dieting, History, Humor & Entertainment, Illustrated Books, Journalism, LGBT Non-Fiction, Management & Leadership, Marketing & Sales, Mindfulness & Happiness, Money & Investment, Motivation & Inspiration, Nature & Environment, Parenting, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Philosophy, Politics & Social Sciences, Popular Science, Productivity & Time Management, Psychology, Reference, Religion & Spirituality, Science, Sex & Relationships, Society & Culture, Sports & Outdoors, Technology & the Future, Travel, YA Non-Fiction, Science Fiction & Humour

Worldwide

Hybrid Global Publishing logo Hybrid Global Publishing

250 copies • Partial manuscript.
Hybrid Global Publishing is a full service Hybrid Publishing Company dedicated to helping authors, speakers, and entrepreneurs get their message out by writing and publishing a book. We offer developmental editing, publishing, distribution, and marketing services for independent authors who are interested in speaking on stage, becoming more visible in the media, and establishing more credibility. The team has a combined 80 years of experience in publishing and has held editorial, management and marketing positions at major publishing houses, including The Free Press, Crown, Random House, and Avon.

Hybrid publisher

Children Fiction, Christian Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, LGBT Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense, Mind & Body, Poetry, Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Women's Fiction, YA Fiction, Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Career & Success, Children Non-Fiction, Christian Non-Fiction, Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Communication Skills, Corporate Culture, Creativity, Current Affairs, Economics, Education, Entrepreneurship & Small Business, Health, Fitness & Dieting, History, Humor & Entertainment, Illustrated Books, Journalism, LGBT Non-Fiction, Management & Leadership, Marketing & Sales, Mindfulness & Happiness, Money & Investment, Motivation & Inspiration, Nature & Environment, Parenting, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Philosophy, Politics & Social Sciences, Popular Science, Productivity & Time Management, Psychology, Religion & Spirituality, Sex & Relationships, Society & Culture, Technology & the Future, Travel, Science Fiction & Humour

Worldwide

Mascot Books logo Mascot Books

Mascot Books is a full-service hybrid publisher dedicated to helping authors at all stages of their publishing journey create a high-quality printed or digital book that matches their vision. With comprehensive editorial, design, marketing, production, and distribution services, our authors have the support of an experienced publishing team while still retaining one of the highest royalty percentages in the business.

Hybrid publisher

All categories

Something or Other Publishing logo Something or Other Publishing

250 copies • Completed manuscript.
SOOP is a small virtual publishing company headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, with a core team based in the US and additional contractors around the world. SOOP currently focuses on curating a small number of volumes for publication each year to enable its team to dedicate a great deal of time to working with its authors directly - not just on the manuscript, but also on platform-building and promotion.

Hybrid publisher

Children Fiction, Christian Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, LGBT Fiction, Literary Essay, Literary Fiction, Mind & Body, Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense, Mythology & Folk Tales, Poetry, Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Women's Fiction, YA Fiction, Art & Photography, Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Career & Success, Children Non-Fiction, Christian Non-Fiction, Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Communication Skills, Corporate Culture, Crafts & Hobbies, Creativity, Current Affairs, Economics, Education, Entrepreneurship & Small Business, Health, Fitness & Dieting, History, Humor & Entertainment, Illustrated Books, Journalism, LGBT Non-Fiction, Management & Leadership, Marketing & Sales, Mindfulness & Happiness, Money & Investment, Motivation & Inspiration, Nature & Environment, Parenting, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Philosophy, Politics & Social Sciences, Popular Science, Productivity & Time Management, Psychology, Reference, Religion & Spirituality, Science, Sex & Relationships, Society & Culture, Sports & Outdoors, Technology & the Future, Travel, YA Non-Fiction, Science Fiction & Humour

Worldwide

1106 Design, LLC logo 1106 Design, LLC

Dear Author,

You worked hard to write your manuscript; finally, it's ready to release. You know that expert assistance is needed, but perhaps you didn’t realize that working with a publisher is no longer necessary—especially publishers who charge fees to produce your book upfront and "share" more of your revenue whenever a book is sold.

1106 Design is an author services company. We offer all the editorial and design services you’d expect from a publisher, transforming your manuscript into a market-ready book. But here's the difference: we help you secure print-on-demand printing and worldwide distribution in your name. This means you earn several dollars more for every book sold instead of a meager “royalty.”

We understand that your book is not just a passion project but also a potential source of income. That's why we offer a range of services tailored to your needs at affordable prices. Depending on your manuscript's word count and complexity, our packages range from $4,000 to $10,000. And here's the best part: after this one-time investment, every penny of net revenue from book sales goes directly to you, never to us.

If this sounds like a better way to publish your book, I invite you to browse our services, design samples, no-surprises pricing, outstanding customer reviews, and educational articles at https://1106design.com. You can download a free PDF of my book, "Publish Like the Pros: A Brief Guide to Quality Self-Publishing and an Insider's Look at a Misunderstood Industry," and request a free, no-obligation consultation.

1106 Design has been in business since 2001 and is rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. We are a “Highly Recommended Expert” at IngramSpark.com and rated "Excellent" at Alli, The Alliance for Independent Authors, at SelfPublishingAdvice.org, where you can find a "watchdog list" of the best and worst publishing services companies.

How can we serve you today?

Sincerely,
Michele DeFilippo, owner

Service publisher

Children Fiction, Christian Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Essay, Literary Fiction, Mind & Body, Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense, Mythology & Folk Tales, Poetry, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Women's Fiction, YA Fiction, Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Career & Success, Children Non-Fiction, Christian Non-Fiction, Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Communication Skills, Corporate Culture, Current Affairs, Economics, Education, Entrepreneurship & Small Business, Health, Fitness & Dieting, History, Humor & Entertainment, Journalism, Management & Leadership, Marketing & Sales, Mindfulness & Happiness, Money & Investment, Motivation & Inspiration, Nature & Environment, Parenting, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Philosophy, Politics & Social Sciences, Popular Science, Productivity & Time Management, Psychology, Reference, Religion & Spirituality, Science, Sex & Relationships, Society & Culture, Sports & Outdoors, Technology & the Future, Travel, YA Non-Fiction, Science Fiction & Humour

Worldwide

Atmosphere Press logo Atmosphere Press

250 copies • Partial manuscript.
Atmosphere Press is an independent publisher dedicated to author rights. We publish in all genres and have an exceptional editorial, design, and promotional staff. We stand for Honesty, Transparency, Professionalism, and Kindness. We want our authors and their readers to be blown away when they first hold that book in their hands. It needs to look good inside and out, and feel good to the touch. And, of course, the words need to be top-notch, and our editors are devoted to making that the case.

Service publisher

Children Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mind & Body, Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense, Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, YA Fiction, Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Career & Success, Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Health, Fitness & Dieting, History, Journalism, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Politics & Social Sciences, Religion & Spirituality, Science, Society & Culture, Sports & Outdoors, Technology & the Future, Travel

Worldwide

eBooks2go logo eBooks2go

100 copies • Completed manuscript.
eBooks2go, Inc. was founded in 2011 to provide the missing link for all your publishing needs. Our end-to-end solutions provide the guidance and support that enable publishers and independent authors to pursue their passions. To date, we have helped more than 750 authors and 100 publishers worldwide. We offer an array of simple and affordable solutions to assist self-publishing authors at every stage of the book publishing process. Our comprehensive service offering includes editing, print and eBook production, book marketing, cover designs, ISBN registration, and even website designs. We are a single source for all of your publishing needs.

Service publisher

Children Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mind & Body, Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense, Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, YA Fiction, Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Career & Success, Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Health, Fitness & Dieting, History, Journalism, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Politics & Social Sciences, Religion & Spirituality, Science, Society & Culture, Sports & Outdoors, Technology & the Future, Travel

Worldwide

IngramSpark logo IngramSpark

Ingram is a rather large company with several different divisions and supplies books to bookstores and libraries in over 200 countries around the world. Ingram also has a print on demand digital printing company, Lightning Source. IngramSpark is the platform that combines those two services together. At IngramSpark, we work with authors and independent publishers to print their books for orders they need (no minimum order) and we have a way to list the books as available for sale to all of Ingram’s 39,000+ customers- distributors, bookstores, retail outlets, libraries, etc., so you never miss a sale. You would provide us with the print-ready digital files (one for the cover and one for the interior) and we print the books as they are sold through our distribution partner’s websites. We pay you for those sales approximately 90 days later. The compensation you earn is based on the retail price you set, minus the wholesale discount you offer our distribution partners, minus the print cost.

Service publisher

Children Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mind & Body, Mystery, Thriller, Horror & Suspense, Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, YA Fiction, Biography & Memoir, Business & Money, Career & Success, Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Health, Fitness & Dieting, History, Journalism, Personal Growth & Self-Improvement, Politics & Social Sciences, Religion & Spirituality, Science, Society & Culture, Sports & Outdoors, Technology & the Future, Travel

Worldwide

Chapter Ten
For the second day in a row, Lori woke up hoping that the day before had been a dream. Still fully dressed from the night before, she rubbed her tear swollen eyes. It took her a moment to orient herself. Groaning as she maneuvered her body into a sitting position on the too-soft sofa, she grabbed her aching back. Her arm had yet to wake up. Massaging feeling back into it, she couldn’t recall how she got from the foyer floor to the couch.

Jack was murdered.

Amidst the harsh reality of that all consuming thought, an alarm went off in her brain reminding her that it was Monday.

I have to go to work?

Rubbing her temples, she pulled herself off the sofa, hoping that work would help her clear her head and enable her to focus on something else for a while. She suddenly craved something normal to remove her from the lead role in this bad movie she felt she had abruptly been thrust into. Perhaps work would be the solution.

After the conversation she had heard at Cafe Amore, there was no doubt in her mind that she had to act on what she knew. Her eyes focused on the picture of her and Jack on the fireplace mantle.

You are NOT going to get away with this!

Ignoring this would make her feel complicit in Jack’s death. But the obvious, nagging question was “How?” How would she and Rita prove that Mason and the NSA had killed him? Just the thought of the NSA made Lori shiver, even under normal circumstances.

I need coffee.

A shot of caffeine was just the ticket for clearing her head. Her mother had brought some French Vanilla when she came for Jack’s funeral. She had neglected to take it back with her when she left. Lori sighed as the scoop scratched across the bottom of the metal tin. This would be her first and last cup. It was for the best. It had taken her months to completely rid herself of the cravings for caffeine. The last thing she needed now was for a bad habit to return. She made a silent vow to Jack not to buy more. She inhaled the sweet aroma as she walked upstairs to the bathroom. The warm, mocha liquid slid down her throat, pacifying her for the moment.

The warm water from the shower ran over her shoulders, soothing her stiff body. French Vanilla still lingered in her mouth. Lori sighed as she soaped up her hair, recalling the bet Jack had made with her a few years ago. She had tried many times to stop drinking coffee. He promised her an extended weekend in Jamaica during the winter if she’d quit for six months. Travel to a warmer climate was appealing, but it was the whispered promise of certain intimate activities that motivated her even more. Even after all the years they’d been together, Jack was still quite imaginative in the bedroom. It was that part of the bet that had given her incentive to kick her coffee habit and never look back.

Wrapping her arms around herself, she was transported back to the resort’s massive marble shower. Scene after intimate scene flowed through her mind. She could smell him, feel him. She always felt so secure in Jack’s arms.

Never again. I’ll never have that again.

Lori collapsed onto the teak shower stool. Her tears were carried away by the gentle cascade of the hot water. If only the water could wash away the dull ache in her heart.

Time was a fickle construct. There were days when it felt like Jack had been gone for a long time. Then there were days when it felt like it was yesterday. Memories would surface in her mind out of nowhere, and sometimes those trips down memory lane were comforting. But not all of them were pleasant, and many felt much too real.

She heard the knock on the door. The state trooper stood on her front step. The look on his face told her everything. She felt paralyzed. Time stopped.

She had replayed that knock on the door every night in her dreams for a month. Then the nightmare came less and less. It had been only a short time that she could finally say Jack’s name and not fall apart. Lori felt like she had travelled through all of the five stages of grief, but now here she was, back at stage two.

She stared at her hazy reflection in the steamy glass. Someone she didn’t recognize looked back. An internal heat started to rise inside of her. The hair on her arms and neck rose. Her jaw tightened and her fists clenched. It was a force bigger than her sadness and fear. Pure, raw anger flew from her lips.

You took him from me! You bastards killed him!

An emboldened woman emerged from the shower.

Chapter Ten
Walking to work, Lori dialed Rita’s number on the burner phone. She couldn’t conceive where this decision would lead her, but she was certain of one thing. She wanted justice for Jack’s death. He would have done it for her, with no doubt and no questions asked. She let it ring once, then hung up. There was no turning back. She drew in a deep breath of ice cold air, but even the cold weather couldn’t put out the fire she felt inside of her body.

…………………............................................................................................

Over the past fifteen years, the Town Herald had become her second home. Her co-workers had been very supportive after Jack’s death. Even Joe Delacourt, the usually crotchety editor, had shown his softer side. Lori thought that if she immersed herself into her research work, perhaps she could escape this new reality in her life. At least for a little while.

By the time Lori opened the office door, Joe was already barking out orders to his department heads. When he said jump, everyone asked how high. It wasn’t unusual for Joe to start getting frantic close to deadline, which was tomorrow, but this was a bit over the top even for Joe. Something must be going on. Her suspicions deepened when she rounded the corner to her cubicle and Nathan Schilling was sitting on her desk.

“Hey, Lori. My printer’s down again. I emailed an article to you for tomorrow’s edition so I’d have it when I got here this morning. Can you log in and print it for me real quick?”

“No problem, Nathan.” Lori set her coat and purse on her chair as he hopped off her desk and moved out of her way. She thought it was ironic for a homicide reporter to be nearly always happy. Nathan’s personality never jived with the gruesome subject of the articles he wrote.

I wonder how you’d write about Jack’s murder?

Lori trembled slightly and tried to focus her attention back on Nathan, who was still busy talking.

“…and so I’m glad you weren’t late. Joe’s been on a rampage already this morning. Shilling! Where is it?” Nathan mockingly imitated their editor’s face and body language. “He’s had to ask that like a hundred times already. And I’ve only been here twenty minutes!” Nathan grabbed his head like it was in a vice, faking a groan and laughing uncontrollably. “He’s got to proof it in his hands, not on the screen you know, or he’s not happy. Joe must own stock in some company that sells paper and red ink.”

Nathan laughed out loud again as he stood behind her. Lori opened the document in the email and hit the print button. The old machine started sputtering loudly. Lori knew it was on its last legs and she considered asking Joe to spring for a new one. She watched as the paper slowly inched out into the tray as the document printed.

The headline Nathan had written peeked out first. “Woman Found Dead in Apartment” Lori dropped the pen she was holding when she saw the face printing out below it.

Nathan’s voice seemed to fade as he continued babbling behind her She struggled to regain her composure while the rest of the article printed. She vaguely felt Nathan at her feet, retrieving her pen. As the printer groaned to a halt, she braced herself and turned around with the best smile she could muster. It felt plastered on her face. “Here, Nathan. Go put Joe out of his misery.”

Nathan handed her the pen. “You ok, Lori?”

“Uh, uh yeah…. I’m just cold and tired. Didn’t sleep too well last
night,” Lori honestly added. “You look like you need to get some sleep, too.” Rumpled clothes, bloodshot eyes, and a scruffy chin were obvious clues that he hadn’t slept.

“Yeah, I was getting ready for bed around midnight when I heard the call on the scanner. I’m on empty after working this story all night. I hope Joe won’t have too many rewrites.” Lori raised her eyebrow in mock disbelief and Nathan laughed at his comment. Joe always had lots of rewrites. “Thanks, Lori!” Nathan waved the papers over his head as Lori watched him hurry down the hallway of cubicles to appease his waiting editor.

Lori collapsed into her chair. Her blood felt like ice in her veins as her body shivered in dread. She glanced down both directions of the hall. Satisfied that no one was near, her fingers quivered as she anxiously opened Nathan's email to read the entire story.

The police reported that the woman must have surprised a burglar when she arrived home after a late dinner. Neighbors called the police after hearing a gunshot, but no one saw anything. There was no trace of the burglar by the time the police arrived.

Normally, this would have been just another murder, but Lori couldn’t take her eyes off the picture.

  • Update #11 - We Did It! July 1, 2021

    Thank you all SO very much for your support. I reached 259 pre-orders.  Wait for the publishers to reach out. This will happen over the next …

  • Update #10 - SO VERY CLOSE June 28, 2021

    I was hoping not to send another update until I had campaign results for you, but I wanted to make one more plea for help. …

  • Update #9 - You're Going to Want to Read this! June 25, 2021

    I'm 50 chapters in to the second in a series! When you read this teaser for the next book (untitled as of yet), you are …

  • Update #8 - Where Did the Video Go in the Last Email? Take 2! June 23, 2021
  • Update #7 - Final Push to Get Over the Top! June 23, 2021

    Attention all holiday shoppers! 

    There’s a blue light special happening on aisle 5! (Yes, I know those under 50 will not get the joke, but …

  • Update #6 - Enticement June 18, 2021


    Hi Everyone,

    I thought I'd entice you to invite your friends to read another excerpt from my novel. It's one of my favorite chapters, though …

  • Update #5 - More than 1/2 way there June 15, 2021

    I wanted to let you know where I stand, as the campaign is almost over.

    380 more copies in 16 days is the goal this …

  • Update #4 - We reached a milestone! June 10, 2021

    🥳 I officially passed 100 reserved copies with 21 days left in this campaign. The book has also moved up into the number 2 position for …

  • Update #3 - Exciting new bonuses June 5, 2021

    Hi Everyone,

    Thanks again for your support! I've got 71 pre-orders and 2 publishers have inquired about the book. That being said, I've only got …

  • Update #2 - Thanks so much! June 3, 2021

    I've never been involved in a crowdfunding event. It's been an interesting experience - fun, but a lot of pressure! The support from my meager …

  • Update #1 - Thanks for making me #1 June 1, 2021

    Thanks! In one day you reserved 50 copies of A Knock on the Door! That made me the best seller of the week in this genre, and emails went …

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  • Brenda Titus
    on June 1, 2021, 3:41 a.m.

    Congratulations on this exciting endeavor! I’m excited to support you!!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 1, 2021, 4:15 p.m.

      Thanks, Brenda! 500 copies in 30 days is a big mountain to climb so let your friends know. Whether they are readers or just like supporting startups, I’d be grateful!

  • Stella Toothman
    on June 1, 2021, 4:29 a.m.

    Hi Roberta,
    I'm so proud to call you my friend. I cannot wait to read your book. I hope you will continue to write and I pray for your success. I miss you too.
    God bless you .

  • Bobbi Kochevar
    on June 1, 2021, 1:46 p.m.

    I'm so happy to support you in this effort Roberta--and I can't wait to read the book!
    Bobbi

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 1, 2021, 4:19 p.m.

      Thanks for being one of my biggest fans, Bobbi. I'm excited about this lil' project!

  • patrick devine
    on June 1, 2021, 1:57 p.m.

    Nice work Roberta! Can't wait to read it!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 1, 2021, 4:17 p.m.

      Thanks, Pat! Tell your friends - I know you of all people appreciate the value of social networking.

  • Heidi Dorfmeister
    on June 1, 2021, 2:53 p.m.

    this is very exciting! I look forward to reading your book.
    Heidi

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 1, 2021, 4:20 p.m.

      Thanks Heidi! Maybe when it's published, I'll hold a local book reading.

  • Karen Black
    on June 1, 2021, 3:18 p.m.

    Roberta's book is incredible. As a lover of murder mysteries, this book has it all. It is one of the best book I have read. I couldn't put it down!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 1, 2021, 4:21 p.m.

      Thanks Karen! And thanks for introducing it to your book club. It was fun to talk to them about it!

  • Pete Rose
    on June 1, 2021, 4:46 p.m.

    Good luck Roberta, I hope it goes well, and I am excited to read the book.

    Thanks!

    Pete

  • Kari Willey
    on June 1, 2021, 11:15 p.m.

    So excited for this new chapter in your life!
    Kari

  • Mary Chapa
    on June 2, 2021, 12:56 a.m.

    Roberta

    I was so delighted to hear about your writing adventure and congratulations for the courage to taking that first step and for finishing. Wishing you success in your publication and I'm looking forward to reading your book.

    Warm Regards,
    Mary Chapa

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 2, 2021, 5:38 p.m.

      Thanks, Mary! This crowdsourcing thing is fun, but I admit a little stressful to have such a big goal and short deadline. Thanks for your support!

  • Linda Schutz
    on June 2, 2021, 1:34 p.m.

    I can’t wait to see it in print. I’m so excited for you!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 2, 2021, 5:39 p.m.

      Thanks, Linda. I believe it's changed a bit since you read an early draft. Thanks for being such a big fan!

  • Renay Rutter
    on June 2, 2021, 2 p.m.

    Was fun to see this from you Roberta! Best of luck and I look forward to getting my copy! Renay

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 2, 2021, 5:40 p.m.

      Thanks, Renay. Good to hear from you. Hope they are treating you well!

  • Laura Jensen
    on June 3, 2021, 3:20 a.m.

    So excited to read this new masterpiece (and the next!) Keep up the good work.

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 3, 2021, 2:34 p.m.

      Thanks, Laura. It's been dos much fun writing these books! I am always wondering what's going to happen next! LOL!

  • Leslie Parran
    on June 3, 2021, 11:01 a.m.

    Best to you on your publishing endeavor, Roberta! Hope that you get "knocks on your door" from future publishers.

  • Cindy Knutson
    on June 4, 2021, 4:41 p.m.

    Anything for you Roberta! I am thrilled to support you! You can do anything you put your mind to. I look forward to reading your story. :)

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 4, 2021, 6:24 p.m.

      Hi Cindy! Thanks so much. Spread the word and the link! 500 is a big nut to crack. LOL!

  • Christine Crocco
    on June 5, 2021, 12:18 a.m.

    Berta - I am THRILLED to see you pursuing this! I'm forwarding to sisters and friends! You rock!
    Love ya, Chris

  • Fran Ayalasomayajula
    on June 5, 2021, 1:07 p.m.

    You've got this Roberta! I am elated and honored to help support. I can’t wait to receive my copy and indulge in a good weekend read 📖

  • Sally Doran
    on June 5, 2021, 9:10 p.m.

    Hi Roberta!!
    Fabulous!! Leave it to you to endeavor down this road. I too am writing a book during the pandemic. Although I'm still a teacher full time (and only continue to do hypnosis as a 'hobby', as they say), I've known this book was inside of me for a long time....and I'm only on chapter 6 of 13 chapters. I am a member of the Hay House Writing Community.
    Thank you for sharing your story (I pre-ordered a copy). I wish you a ton of success that you so deserve!!! Good luck and let us all know how you are doing. I owe much of my journey to studying Hypnosis to you, and I want you to know how grateful I am. You have been a true role-model for me.
    Sincerely,
    Sally Doran

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 6, 2021, 1:10 p.m.

      Hi Sally! Thanks for the kind words. It's amazing how life connects us, isn't it. Let me know when you are done with your book. Would love to support you!

  • Kimberly Hanlon
    on June 9, 2021, 2:08 p.m.

    Congrats on the new book, Roberta! I can't wait to read it! :)

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 10, 2021, 2:32 a.m.

      Kim, Thanks for your support! I'm thrilled that you want to read it!

  • Jacquelyn Fletcher
    on June 9, 2021, 2:31 p.m.

    Wahoo! This is so exciting!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 10, 2021, 2:33 a.m.

      Thanks to a fellow author!Thanks for being a part of my first endeavor and for encouraging me to take the leap!

  • Susan Welliver
    on June 9, 2021, 3:51 p.m.

    Hi girl friend! How exciting a new book! You are awesome. Miss you, Sue

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 10, 2021, 2:33 a.m.

      Sue! Reach to to me so we can catch up. Thanks for your support.

  • Sherri Krueger
    on June 9, 2021, 5:44 p.m.

    This is exciting, Roberta! Sending good vibes to you.

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 10, 2021, 2:35 a.m.

      Thanks, Sherri. I think of your son and all of his creativity often!

  • Kristin Hinrichs
    on June 9, 2021, 6:30 p.m.

    Thanks, Sweetie! Instead of sending along to my besties that I thought would enjoy the book - thought I would just ORDER them one! I will also order for myself under separate cover.....
    This is an AWESOME book - and can't wait to see what my "character" will do in the next one. You can use Kristin Ford or simply Kristin if you would.....
    Can't wait to learn of your success EVERYWHERE in your life.

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 10, 2021, 2:37 a.m.

      Yes, you were one of the lucky few who got to read a first draft. It's even better now!

      I'm going to create someone very special just for you! The wheels are already turning on how I'm going to work her into the story.

  • Barbara Heineken
    on June 10, 2021, 2:31 a.m.

    Good for you Roberta! i hope you are successful.

    Best,
    Barbara

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 10, 2021, 2:40 a.m.

      Barbara,
      What a blast from the past! Reach out so we can catch up! I miss Tampa, but not the heat. (Though we've had 90+ temps here for a week. I'm melting.)

      Thanks for supporting me. I've lost touch with so many of my Fl connections. Spread the word!

  • Patrice Massa
    on June 10, 2021, 7:30 p.m.

    Hi Roberta, Good Luck! Patrice (Chris Crocco's sister)

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 10, 2021, 7:33 p.m.

      I told Chris that your family alone would get me to my goal - 😂 Thanks for supporting me!

  • Rose DeJoy
    on June 10, 2021, 10:16 p.m.

    So very exciting Roberta! All the best, Rose (Menna) DeJoy

  • Laura Bates
    on June 11, 2021, 5:41 p.m.

    Good luck Roberta! I love a good thriller.

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 12, 2021, 1:58 p.m.

      Thanks, Laura. It's been a fun Covid project. A kind of gift from covid, I suppose!

  • Marcy Schramm
    on June 12, 2021, 4:02 a.m.

    Roberta, this was so exciting to hear you wrote a mystery book. I love mysteries of any kind.
    And that you have started a second. Now I know for sure you can do anything you put your mind to. I always knew you were multi talented.
    PS when will it become a movie or TV series ?
    “Sally Ann”

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 12, 2021, 2:02 p.m.

      Hi Marcie,
      LOL! A little self hypnosis goes a long way for creativity. Movie - ha! One can dream - 😂 Gotta get published first!

  • Deb Degner
    on June 15, 2021, 4:54 a.m.

    I ordered the book for my college friend Deb.
    She reads many books and enjoys a good mystery.

  • Damon Lacey
    on June 16, 2021, 5:51 p.m.

    Congrats Roberta!

    Looking forward to reading it!

    Damon

  • Andrei Kamalov
    on June 18, 2021, 5:06 p.m.

    gotta get a few more to share with friends!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 23, 2021, 5:44 p.m.

      Thanks Andrei! Can't wait for you to read it. Maybe one of my next novels will be a plot to blow up a collider! LOL

  • Patricia Fitzsimmons
    on June 24, 2021, 3:02 p.m.

    Yahoo My Friend, you inspire me! XOXO
    Patty

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 28, 2021, 3:54 p.m.

      Thanks, Patty! You really need to write a book about a salon. We'll talk at my next hair appointment. BTW everyone, Patty is starring as a Secret Service Agent in the next book! WooHoo.

  • lena de kesel-lams
    on June 24, 2021, 3:53 p.m.

    CONGRATULATIONS!
    My Daughter Alexandra wrote a great recommendation. I am looking forward reading your book.
    lena

  • Sarah Patnode
    on June 25, 2021, 1:51 p.m.

    Hi Roberta,
    Looking forward to reading your book!
    Sarah Patnode

  • Christine Crocco
    on June 25, 2021, 6:46 p.m.

    I can't wait for everyone to read this book! You developed great characters that readers will care about!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on June 28, 2021, 3:57 p.m.

      Thanks, Chris. I think you'll like all the revisions since you read the first draft. It grew to 320 pages!

  • Troy Noor
    on June 25, 2021, 9:17 p.m.

    Hope you hit our goal, Roberta! Keep me posted. Troy

  • Anne Carey
    on June 28, 2021, 7:47 p.m.

    So very excited for you and all of us who love you❤️💫❤️ Anne

  • Chris Garwick-Foley
    on June 29, 2021, 2:55 p.m.

    Good luck, Roberta! I look forward to reading your book soon!

    Chris (Garwick-Foley)

  • Melissa Buckley
    on June 30, 2021, 1:51 p.m.

    Susan Gibbons recommended that I try your book. I love to read and your book sounds so right up my alley. Can't wait to read it!

    • Roberta Fernandez
      on July 1, 2021, 3:20 a.m.

      Thanks Melissa! If your book club members are interested in ordering, you can email me at knockauthor@gmail.com. The campaign has ended so you can't get it on the site anymore. I had a book club of 20 years read it and they loved it - they were the ones that pushed me to publish. I'll be updating everyone soon on the next steps.

  • Karen Underwood
    on June 30, 2021, 9:09 p.m.

    So excited to read your book. Congratulations on embarking on this exciting new adventure!
    You are amazing! (We need to have a book signing party down here in Tampa)