Hi Friends,

It's me. Long time, hey? Writing an email to y'all has been on a sticky note I have moved from one week to the next in my planner, again and again, and here we are...

If you are confused, hello, my name is Jennifer Sparks. Thanks for inviting me into your email inbox.

If this email seems random, I am here because you downloaded one of my books (https://jennifersparks.ca/) or because you are interested in publishing/writing your own story (https://www.stokepublishing.com). BTW, both websites are undergoing an overhaul, so they are just landing pages for now. Just hit return if you want to chat!

My apologies for my hiatus—I was doing my best to get some magic back. I took the entire summer off in anticipation of a new job that started in late August. Summer was, indeed, an epic adventure. "Summer Jenny" is a heck of a lot of fun.

"Back to Work Jenny" buckles down and gets serious. I do this thing, I turtle. I pull my world in tighter. Less of everything. Hibernation.

Recalibration. Resetting. Realignment. This is the part where systems and structures actually create the freedom I want to enjoy when the snow melts. This time of year has its own perks. Maybe you feel the same way? There truly is a season for everything!

But holy smokes, how is it going to be 2026? I would LOVE to know what you want to focus on in the new year and what your word of the year might be ... I am working my way through my Annual Life Review and tossing around a few words in an effort to take me off autopilot and to add a bit of dramatic flair to 2026!

STOKE PUBLISHING NEWS

Things that writers might want to know about in jot form.

• Amazon AI bots are blocking books and accounts. Make sure you comply with the Terms of Service. It is up to you to respond to any KDP emails promptly and keep a record of your correspondence. Make sure you log in to your dashboard frequently and check for any alerts. Check your KDP account email's junk folder. When you are fighting with a machine, reason doesn't always prevail.
• Authors Wishing to GROW in 2026! The best software for identifying keywords and categories for your books is having a sweet little black Friday dealio - I am sharing it here for you, should you wish to grab it. Yes, I use it all the time. It is one of my go-to tools. This sale runs from Nov 28 to Dec 2. Save $80! $30 off Publisher Rocket and get the Mastering Keywords course (usually $50) free with purchase.
• List of Published Books and 2026 Booking Calendar. I will be sending out a list of all the books published in 2025 in the next email (along with a fresh booking calendar for 2026), so that I can leave you to your weekend! HOWEVER, if getting your book done in 2026 is on your list, please hit reply and let me know, and I will send you the booking calendar before I make it public, giving you dibs on the limited free calls.

Take care,

Jennifer Sparks

www.jennifersparks.ca

www.stokepublishing.com