6 month whirlwind

Shannon LeClair
Times Reporter

 

It’s been a busy, and somewhat hectic, six months since author Audrey Gene, known to family and friends as Reesa Bruce, released her book ‘Of the Dragonfly.’
When asked to describe the past six months, “a whirlwind” was the phrase that came to mind for the author.
Since the official release in May, Bruce has had 21 book signings, and there are many more to come. She has been able to help raise money for numerous fundraisers, and has been invited as a guest of honour to many book clubs and school presentations.
“I’ve also been blessed with a demand for the sequel to ‘Of the Dragonfly’, which I’m trying to work on, and have had many requests for my book to be made into a movie,” said Bruce.
“It’s a huge compliment that people say that, and it would be a dream come true.”
‘Of the Dragonfly’ has also been released digitally on Kobo and Amazon, and there are 13 more e-book retailers, including Apple iBooks, adding the book to their catalogue in the next couple weeks, just in time for the holidays.
Bruce said it has been the support of local businesses and community members that have helped her book become the success it is.
“That’s the biggest thing I would like to get across … is just my gratitude,” she said.
I just think about all the people that keep coming forward, or the e-mails that I get and the text messages or mail from people I would never even imagine. People I don’t know, people from my childhood, people at the vet clinic, even in the city. It’s just amazing.”
“Though I’ve always been grateful to have been raised in Strathmore, I’m even more grateful to be launching my career in this town. Strathmore and surrounding areas have been wonderful not only in supporting me as a new author, but also for supporting our other local authors, musicians, artists, athletes and businesses. We are very fortunate to live where we live.”
Bruce wanted to thank all of her family, friends and residents of Strathmore and anyone else who has read her book for their support. She is grateful for everyone who has purchased her book, even though she knows they could have borrowed it.
“As it is with all budding artists trying to start their careers, sales, online reviews and word-of-mouth are critical for me right now, so I truly appreciate everyone who’s paid the money to buy my book or taken the time to post a review on Facebook, Goodreads, LinkedIn, or any other social media platform. It means more than you realize,” said Bruce.
‘Of the Dragonfly’ can be found for sale at The Red Carrot and Strathmore Home Hardware, and also at Chapters and Indigo stores in Calgary.
For the next six months Bruce plans to keep promoting ‘Of the Dragonfly’ and hopefully finish the first draft of the sequel. For upcoming events, and updates go to www.audreygene.com.