‘Heat of the Moment’, a brand new anthology now available from Echelon Press, is a charitable effort of publisher, editors, artist and twenty-one authors.  All proceeds and royalties will be donated to benefit the survivors of the 2007 San Diego fires.

I’m thrilled to participate in such a great effort.  My contribution to the anthology, “From the Ashes” features Jaden Michaels and her friend Cleveland as they unravel a mystery locked in the turmoil of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

This story was dedicated to all firefighters: past, present, and future and the valiant spirit that pushes them into danger for the sake of the rest of us. 

My closest personal brush with fire came during a wintry New Year’s Eve party when I was a kid in Lincoln, NE.  My parents were hosting the annual event, the Cornhuskers bowl game was on TV and our chimney caught fire sometime during the first half. 

The crew who responded did an excellent job of assessing, evacuating, and saving the majority of our roof.  I’ll never forget them for their kindness and courage.

I encourage readers of all genres to pick up this book for yourself, for a friend.  The amazing stories are offered from a broad spectrum of talented writers ranging from well known bestsellers to a fresh-voiced teenage prodigy. 

Besides you’ll be supporting the best cause ever in this holiday season:  goodwill toward your neighbor.

Happy holidays!