Hello dear readers,

I have some exciting news to share with you today. As many of you may have noticed, I have not been as active here as I once was. While away, I decided to establish a publishing company (Whispering Grove Press, LLC). I’ve had a dream of becoming a publisher for as long as I can remember, and that dream has finally become a reality for me. I am still in the early stages of developing my company and looking for opportunities to grow my business. With that in mind, I have decided to give everyone an opportunity to publish their work. Here’s my proposal: in exchange for a detailed review of my work, I will be publishing (free of charge) 10 books. If you’re interested, please send an email with a brief description about yourself, the kind of book you’d like to publish, and specific details about what you need help with. Emails can be sent to: whisperinggrovepress@gmail.com. In the subject line, please put “WGP Publishing_your name”

I also need each applicant to attach a copy of the first page of their manuscript. All genres are eligible, and I will accept previously published work so long as the rights still belong to you. I will give priority to those who’ve never had the opportunity to publish a book; however, this opportunity is open to seasoned authors as well. I will be accepting submissions until the end of the year, so please spread the news to anyone who might be interested. My goal is to help each person succeed and make dreams of authorship a reality. So, let’s work together and create something unforgettable. I’m looking forward to seeing where Whispering Grove Press takes all of us.

And last but not least, here’s a look at my most recently published book. This book is meant to honor my great-uncle Charlie, who was a poet like me. I think designing the book cover was my favorite part, and I’m really happy with the overall outcome. Let’s do your book next. 🙂 Happy writing and may all your dreams come true! ~M

Charlie’s book can be ordered through Amazon. Here’s the link:

Sorrows to Sunbursts: Recollections by Charles S. Smead

Sorrows to Sunbursts is a deeply personal and heartfelt collection of poetry that traces the quiet beauty found within a life shaped by love, loss, faith, and resilience. Through simple yet powerful verse, Charles S. Smead captures the full spectrum of human experience—from the sorrow of parting and the weight of hardship to the warmth of memory, the strength of devotion, and the enduring light of hope.

Rooted in faith and inspired by family, Smead’s poems reflect a man who saw meaning in both life’s struggles and its simplest joys. His words honor loved ones, celebrate enduring relationships, and express a profound gratitude for the world around him—from nature’s quiet wonders to the deep bonds that carry us through time.

Written across the backdrop of a changing America, his poetry also speaks to themes of patriotism, perseverance, and the human spirit’s ability to rise above adversity. Whether reflecting on childhood memories, spiritual devotion, or the passage of years, each poem offers a glimpse into a life lived with sincerity, humility, and heart.

This collection stands as both a tribute and a legacy—a reminder that even in sorrow, there is light waiting to break through.

For readers who cherish timeless poetry, faith-centered reflections, and the enduring power of love, Sorrows to Sunbursts is a moving and memorable collection.