from Fern Michaels Dear Readers, My publisher just sent me the cover for "Charming Lily" for approval. I'd like to share with you my angst (doncha love that word) when sixty-seven different people are trying to come up with one single idea. It's a new look as far as covers go for me and when I get the final proof, we'll post it so you can all tell me what you like and dislike about it. I'd also like to share a few things with you about my trip to Natchez, Mississippi where I went to research "Charming Lily". First of all, it's a beautiful, small city steeped in history. We (my sister Dory went with me) were fortunate enough to have a wonderful tour guide that was so incredibly knowledgeable, it boggled my mind. Unfortunately, I couldn't fit it all into the book. All the antebellum mansions have ghosts. I really tuned into that little fact. The food was wonderful. Did you ever eat a deep fried pickle? Delicious. Dory and I stayed in a haunted suite at King's Tavern. The owner graciously permitted this. They lock you in at night from the outside but you can let yourself out in the morning. I'm sad to say, Madeline the ghost, did not make an appearance. It has been documented that people check in but are never around to check out in the morning because they become so frightened they leave in the middle of the night. We sat up all night waiting while we ate Snickers bars, popcorn and drank soda pop. I kind of felt cheated. If there was a down side to the trip it was the weather. The humidity was unbearable and unbelievable. We looked like rag mops at the end of the day. We did tour Dunleith Plantation and stayed there also. For all of you "Gone With the Wind" fans, a lot of the movie was filmed at Dunleith. It was magnificent. I hope you all enjoy "Charming Lily". Don't forget now, please let me know how you like this new cover art when we post it. All best wishes. Stay well and happy and keep reading. Fern Michaels Back to Chapter One Main Page newsflash / biography / bookshelf / contest my latest / complete list / my favorites / my suggestions chapter one / series list / my publisher / my blog / site map / contact Copyright ©1997-2008 by First Draft, Inc. All rights reserved.