I’m working on the Opal sequel, and I want your help. Here’s a synopsis (though I’m not through) of what happens in the story. Although middle-aged Opal Pratt has lived on that property all her life and her parents were there for some years before that, Opal has now learned that the front part of the property does not belong to her. And she’s not happy. She watches the land being cleared, a house larger and nicer than hers going up, and driveways being paved.
What shall we name the story? The working title is Land Lost, but that’s no good for a real title. Neighbors came to mind, but that’s too friendly. Changes might be a decent title. What do you think we should call it? Leave me a comment with your ideas.

Thank you, amazon! Both the soft cover and hard cover editions of Opal are on sale. If you’re planning to give any Opals as Christmas gifts, now is the time to purchase them. I love a good sale!

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=diane+thomas-plunk

How exciting! Take a look at this promo for the Opal short stories and tell a friend.

We had a great time at the Mississippi Book Festival. Talked with other authors as well as guests who were interested in Opal. If you have a group that would like to invite me for a signing, just write a message here.

Stripped of the guise of pretense,
I unfasten the sash of distrust
And let it fall softly at your feet.

Unencumbered by falseness,
Uncovered by deceit,
I am nothing more than I am
Standing here waiting for you.

IT’s OFFICIAL!! I’ve been accepted as one of the more than sixty authors and artists to display our work at the annual Mississippi Book Festival in August on the grounds and surrounding area of the state capitol in Jackson, MS. In addition to our area, there’s a section for book sellers and another for children’s books. Inside the capitol will be individual speakers and a variety of panels. Publishers’ reps will also be circulating. This is the third year of the “literary lawn party” which last year drew 6,500 guests. I am so honored that my application passed muster. If you’re in the area, come see me.

Really enjoyed being back in my old stomping grounds to do an Opal book signing — and visit with old friends. The following is a post after the event from an attendee. SO generous in her observations.

“A delightful time with dear friend, author and former colleague, Diane Thomas-Plunk at her book signing event yesterday. Her new book, Opal, is another of her endearing, insightful views of life in the South. Diane weaves her magic through the pages, inviting us to an intimate view of Opal’s world.”

The birth was not a joyous one. Just another little Irish girl born in The Pinch, an area in Memphis next to the Wolf River lagoon, so named for the pinched look of the underfed residents. Mary Elizabeth saw the birth’s blessing, however.

“Katie, Molly, come see your new little sister,” she called as soon as the midwife allowed. “What a precious blessing she is to push the sad shadows from our hearts.” It was exactly five weeks and one day since her husband’s funeral mass. Michael James was buried in consecrated ground at Calvary Cemetery, but there was no money for a marker. No matter. Few outside The Pinch cared for the death of a poor Irishman anyway.

“She can carry her Da’s name since she’ll never know him. It will honor him sure. We’ll be calling her Mary Michael.”

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