While trying to find the words to write in the aftermath of last night’s deadly shooting in Las Vegas, Facebook reminded me that this day last year I released this book trailer of the first book that would feature my maiden name instead of my older author name. Even I wasn’t used to seeing Liz Durano on the trailer but I had just written a story that made me happy from the inside out and it wouldn’t have mattered what name I used although “Durano” is the surname most people in my life know me as and deep inside, I wanted my family to be proud of at least one thing I created.
I never wavered with the way Dax and Harlow’s story was told (except maybe for the lack of an epilogue for the first edition – sorry about that), the characters’ ages or what they went through whether it would be triggering for readers or not. This was a book that wrote itself from April 29 until August because unknown to me then, I was desperate to find my joy and I realized later on that I found it through writing stories like Dax and Harlow’s.
This morning was one of those days when I wasn’t sure about joy anymore or why I should even write. After the events of last night when I went to bed learning there’d been only two casualties then to waking up this morning and finding that number reach 50, I found myself sitting in front of my laptop wondering why I should even write in the midst of all the hopelessness. Where can I even find it when I’m feeling so hopeless? But then, maybe that is the reason to write, too, to find joy… and most of all, hope shining brightly against the backdrop of fear and hopelessness.
Today, my thoughts are with Las Vegas and everyone affected. I could watch the clips and hear the sounds again and again all over social media, or I could start writing my characters’ stories and find hope again and again and again.
Love you all,
Liz
Liz Durano 
Horrific doesn’t begin to describe this terrible event. I think of all the concerts I have attended–looking forward to hearing a favourite performer–the excitement and fun–and I imagine how it would turn to shit as people around me started to die and I had to run for my life! Can’t imagine the terror and fear that people must have felt. And yet the world needs hope and positivity! If your books can bring even one person some happiness or hope then please get back to work. It is desperately needed!
LikeLiked by 1 person
We certainly need it more now that it feels like one blow after another with the news, and that’s not even all the news that we hear about because some get buried (whether intentionally or not) in the media in favor of something else more sensational.
Still working on that book I’m writing and just finished proofing the audiobook and sent back for edits. It’s work as usual because I sure need it. Hope you and your Queen are well!
LikeLiked by 1 person
We are well. Thanks for asking. Last night we went to a small venue and saw a live band. They did a tribute to the people of Las Vegas and those injured and killed. It was a poignant moment. I kept thinking, what if some nut started shooting?? And yet we need to go on with our lives and live as best we can.
LikeLiked by 1 person
We can’t let evil acts of people stop us from writing. I know it’s hard to focus on writing when things around us are going so bad, but you’ll push through it. My prays go out to all those affected by the shooting. It’s indeed a sad day.
LikeLiked by 2 people
So true. It’s taken me stepping away from social media to do it and focus on things I need to do like write but it’s impossible when I have to also monitor my ads lol So I have to find a balance somewhere.
LikeLiked by 1 person