Wendy Lynn Decker September Newsletter
Late Bloomers
Still Bloom
It's never too late to write your next chapter
A Newsletter by
Wendy Lynn Decker
September 2026
A new name for a new season. "What if, Wendy?" fit last year’s newsletter—but after my adventures this past summer, I felt it was time for a name that better captures where the journey is taking me.
Hello Friends,
Happy September! As the leaves begin to change and the sweet scent of fall fills the air, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey my book, Whispers of Sea Glass, has taken this summer! The book tour has been a whirlwind of excitement, taking me through bookstore events, library talks, festivals, and fantastic interactions with book clubs and senior communities. It’s been truly rewarding to connect with a diverse audience, from high school seniors to senior citizens.
I’m thrilled to share that Whispers of Sea Glass has not only captivated readers but also garnered several prestigious awards! It has won the Firebird Book Award for Best Summer Beach Read and secured First Place in both the Coming-of-Age and Teen Mystery categories. Additionally, it earned Second Place for Cross-Genre! One of the perks for winning was a podcast interview with Speak Up Radio. Click the button above to check it out. With a few more award contests still on the horizon, I can't help but keep my fingers crossed for more recognition. As we transition into fall, I’m excited to see what lies ahead. Thank you to everyone who has supported my book and its continued journey—your enthusiasm and feedback make all the difference!
Speaking at Adult Communities
Whispers of Sea Glass has found a special niche in senior living communities. I’ve created an engaging presentation that combines a nostalgic slideshow, a lively 1950s playlist, and stories from the book and my own writing journey.
The experience invites residents back to their high school years—sparking memories, conversation, and plenty of fun along the way. Some of these communities feel more like resorts, complete with theater-style seating and large screens, which makes the events feel especially immersive. It’s been absolutely fabulous to share the book in such a meaningful, joyful setting.
Please help spread the word—I’ve been told I’m the first author ever to visit!
A Book Club Meeting at Asbury Park Brewery
Another highlight this summer was an invitation from the Monmouth County Daughters of Ireland Book Club to join their gathering at Asbury Park Brewery. I spent the evening with 20 enthusiastic women who eagerly delved into the book's backstory, asked wonderful questions, and kept the conversation lively. With a musical act performing, a resident dog barking, and the buzz of conversation around the bar, it was quite a spirited and unforgettable night.
I'd like to add that these ladies were so inquisitive that they got me to share the premise of my next book. I made them pinky swear not to share. Since you are all on my special list, you'll be next . . . but not just yet. ;-)
A Peak Behind the Pages
Original Names
Just like a book title, most authors change their characters' names as their personalities come to life. Here are a few from Whispers of Sea Glass:
Eddie - Denny
Helen - Stella
Maryanne - Laura
Ivy Jean - Ivy Jean (She was a keeper right from the beginning)
If you are curious how the story originally ended, send me an email, and I'll be happy to share.
More about the author . . .
Many of you know about my experience teaching college on Navy ships at sea and have asked me where you can read about this. Click the link below. It will take you to one of my essays, "A Djiboutiful Day," published in the Middlesex College Journal, where I share my journey home from Djibouti, Africa, after completing my first eight-week teaching stint.
The Greatest Summer Highlight of All!
In the midst of an awesome summer book tour, I became a first-time grandmother to a beautiful grandson on July 1st!
There’s so much more I’d love to share, but I know my newsletter is only one of many arriving in your inbox, so I’ll save a few stories for next time. Still, with a new name comes a few new tidbits to match—so here are some highlights to go along with it.
Late Bloomers
Did you know . . .
🤔
Frank McCourt was 66 years old when Angela’s Ashes (one of my favorite books) was published in 1996. Frank became a celebrated late-blooming author after retiring from teaching.
Laura Ingles Wilder published her Little House series at the age of 65.
Susan Boyle became an international singing sensation at 47 after auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent in 2009 with “I Dreamed a Dream.” Her debut album, I Dreamed a Dream, entered the Billboard chart at No. 1 and sold more than 3.1 million copies in 2009 alone
These stories are not overnight successes. They're a testament to perseverance and a passion for doing what you love, no matter your age.
Do you have any names you could add to the list? I love learning as much as sharing!
Fall and winter invitations welcome: If your library, book club, women's club, senior community, or local organization would enjoy a nostalgic author visit featuring Whispers of Sea Glass, a 1950s playlist, and stories from behind the book, I would love an introduction.
p.s.
It's never too late to share a review, whether on Amazon, Goodreads, FB, or Instagram. Indie authors depend on word-of-mouth referrals. Thanks to all who have shared already.
💌 Thank you again for your support. I hope you enjoy the last days of summer and a lovely autumn. Blessings to you all.
With Love and Optimism!
—Wendy 🌻
There are no coincidences in life, only incidents where God remains anonymous.
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