It’s New Year’s Day and our Booklover’s Bench authors are fired up with writing resolutions!

Debra: My resolution for writing is simple – Do it! Although I’ve written and had several short stories published in 2025, including With Our Bellies Full and the Fire Dying, a collection of some of my short stories that have won or been finalists for awards, I didn’t write anything long. My resolution for 2026 is to dedicate myself to writing more short pieces and a long one.

Nancy: My creative goal is to write book #2 in the Keri Armstrong cozy series. For the business side of writing, I plan to publish book #19 in the Bad Hair Day Mysteries. I also have to either change my email server or purge the non-openers, because my current email system is becoming too costly.

Lois: This past year, I had the opportunity to give online presentations to several readers’ and writers’ groups. I also took part in a panel discussion at a virtual conference. I’d like to do additional virtual presentations in 2026.

Cheryl: This year, I’m reclaiming my precious morning writing time. Somewhere along the way, little distractions crept in and nudged aside that peaceful, focused hour I used to treasure. So I’m going back to basics: no email, no music, no texts, no social media, no games. At least not until I’ve enjoyed a good, solid writing sprint. Here’s to fresh starts and cozy creativity… Wish me luck!

Maggie: 2026 is supposed to be my take it easy year, but the thing is, I’m not sure if I can take anything easy. I’m used to “going pedal to the metal.” But that’s my goal for this year. To edit my Art Studio Mystery and also relax and just “be.” While that may sound easy to you, that is hopefully more than wistful thinking for me. Like Cheryl above, I ask that you wish me luck also!

Terry: My goal for 2026 is to enjoy life. That will likely mean publishing the ninth Seaside Bed & Breakfast Mystery (which is almost done) and writing the third Beachtown Detective Agency Mystery. It also means travel–we have two road trips in mind, and I’d love to hit the road!

Happy New Year from all of us to all of you. Do you have a resolution for 2026? Share with us. We love hearing from readers.

Hoping for a bright and shiny new year for you!

Debra H Goldstein, Nancy J Cohen, Lois Winston, Cheryl Hollon, Maggie Toussaint, and Terry Ambrose

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