The five W's of Chapter 1: When, Who, Where, What, and Why. It introduces the main character "Rivka," which means binding and linking.

How should you play in the wind? Why should you compete in tournaments? What is it like to play at the Senior Pro level?

Artists need a thick skin.

How I wrote the prologue? 

What is my writing process? How did I develop my characters? I love the heroes and villains I created who are flawed, wonderful and terrible.  

Writing is lonely. You need a support group.

After one and a half years, the 300-page manuscript is done. Now the hard work begins. 

New Year's Day War is a modern-day retelling of Romeo and Juliet, set against the backdrop of a Middle Eastern conflict. It explores themes of duty, regret, and unspoken emotions.

Rivka, an underpaid yet overqualified Israeli middle school teacher, sees her life upended when Egypt and Syria launch a coordinated attack on Israel. She begins as a gentle, compassionate figure—earning her comparisons to Fred Rogers (a.k.a. Mr. Rogers)—but is thrust into a world of brutality and impossible choices. Embedded with a frontline combat unit alongside Rami, a Palestinian interpreter, Rivka must navigate the chaos of war, the fight against Hamas terrorists, and the pervasive sexism of the military. Facing modern-day adversaries reminiscent of Adolf Hitler and Muammar Gaddafi, Rivka finds herself at the heart of an escalating conflict that hurtles toward nuclear annihilation. Ultimately, she is forced to make sacrifices that could cost her honor, her soul, and the life of the man she loves.

New Year’s Day War is a precise, gritty, and layered character-driven novel that examines love and intimate relationships amid the harsh realities of war. 

For the past six months, I learned a few things about Pickleball 

I hate when players play below their level but I hate cowardice and laziness even more. 

I was interviewed by Curtis for his podcast. I produced a preview podcast and will use his interview on my show when it is available. Next week, I'll discuss playing down or "sandbagging" tournaments.