My guest blogger today is Bobbie Mardis. She is the author of The Triple Creek series and writes several genres. She just finished publishing Return to the Triple Creek. Bobbie is a self-published author who has been a friend for many years and has forgotten more about writing than I’ll ever know. Bobbie always told me she read And Still the Waters Run by Angie Debo about the stealing of the Native American land (the story that led to Killers of the Flower Moon) some 20 years ago and the idea for her story began. Her first book The Triple Creek deals with Elinore learning that her inherited ranch was stolen by her ancestors from the Native American people of the area and she becomes determined to right the wrong.

I asked for a summary of Return to the Triple Creek and here is what she said: Elinor Sawyer, believing she had left the T.C. ranch forever, became involved again in its problems, deciding its future, and resolving the on/off again romance with a cowboy.

We know each other through the Enid Writing Club, where you mentored me for years. She is a rock to many in the club. We were so excited when she published her two books. I appreciate our friendship which has been strengthened through our involvement with the EWC, by sharing our writing and our personal stories. We support one another and other writers in many ways.

Who is the author/artist that inspires you the most, and why? I am inspired by reading the works of excellent writers. Those who use brilliant,  creative words to convey ideas through stories or essays: Tolkien, Washington Irving, for example.

If stranded on an island, what one book would you keep with you? That’s tough and I wish I could give a good answer. By the time you’re as old as I am, you’ve read so many, had so many favorites, it gets hard to pick just one. So I won’t.

What are you reading right now? I’m reading books in a series by Ellis Peters whose main character is Cadfael, a 12th century Benedictine monk. He solves a variety of crimes while political intrigue affects the abbey’s activities. Great writing.

Tell us three fascinating things about you: (1) I am astounded —and grateful—that, at my age (91) I can still walk, talk, and write. (2) I fell in love with country/western music in the mid 80’s after being a snob about it previously. (3) My family has grown beyond my five children to now include nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. (None of these facts are in any way “fascinating” but there it is)

Describe your ideal workspace…and then tell us about your actual one: Ideal would be quiet room with a great desk chair and all the hi-tech objects to help my work. Actual is a comfortable recliner with the laptop resting on my knees as I type.

What advice do you have for other writers/artists? Don’t give up. It took me ten years to write my first book, and seven to complete the second one. Perfection will never truly be attained (and who decides what is perfect?). Be content with imperfect attempts while developing your work, then take time to iron out the wrinkles. Seek help. Accept suggestions graciously.

Readers can find both of your books on Amazon (will there be a third? We’re excited!). The latest, Return to the Triple Creek, is found at Return to the Triple Creek: Mardis, Bobbie J: 9798875695070: Amazon.com: Books.

It was great having you here, Bobbie, and I know we all wish you continued success. I hope to be able to read a third Triple Creek someday. Pick up a copy of  Return to the Triple Creek. I’m sure you will love it—and leave a review.

What are you reading/writing this week?