I’m Back!

Hi Everybody,

I’ve surfaced again, after working on the first draft of a new book, and before that, the final draft of another book. (Well, almost final, since I will have two more rounds of re-writes to do on it), and the one in first draft is just beginning, with much editing and many re-writes ahead. And I’ve taken a break, between rounds of editing. So now I can chat with you again, (until I go back to work).

As always, I worked ridiculously long hours, holed up in my office, working 20 and 22 hour days, just writing, concentrating on the story, lost in the book. It’s a strange way to make a living, but I still enjoy it and work harder than ever.

My life is divided strangely, as I’ve told you before, I live in two cities. I do my work in San Francisco, and relax in Paris. And I’ve just spent an intense four weeks in San Francisco. All the difficult things for me are in San Francisco (and some of the joys, when I share San Francisco with my kids). My responsibilities are in San Francisco. My work, meeting with lawyers, accountants, 5 visits to the dentist this trip (yikes! I’m a big chicken about the dentist), doctors’ visits, decisions to make, all the grown up stuff that is sometimes hard to face. I squash it all into my time in San Francisco, with too little time to see friends (none this time), and no time to play. I pay my dues in San Francisco. And then after I’ve worn myself out totally, and have done most of the things I was supposed to do, I pack up, and go back to Paris, to unwind, relax, rest finally, see friends, ( and when I’m very lucky, my children visit me there too). It isn’t a totally fair way to divide a life, with all the work in one place (and some things I even dread), and all the play time in another city. I should divide it more equally, but somehow I don’t. So all the heavy stuff is on one side of the scale, and most of the fun on the other (real life does sneak up on me occasionally in Paris too).

So having taken my nose out of the typewriter, and finished at the dentist for now (I hope!), I’m packing up and off to Paris for a while…. ‘gone fishing’ ….off to relax for a bit. Mission accomplished for now. I hope that all is well with you.

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14 Comments so far
  1. Kathryn Magendie March 20, 2009 9:37 am

    Oh, yes – relax relax! ENJOY!

  2. Stephanie March 20, 2009 9:51 am

    Successful to you of rest. I wait for your new products. I adore your books!

  3. Gabriela March 20, 2009 5:33 pm

    Thanks for the update. Glad to hear everything is well & on it’s way soon. Can’t wait to read your new books!!
    Now go for your you time & enjoy!!

  4. kimmi March 21, 2009 6:02 am

    Morning, Ms. Steel. And welcome back!!
    *waves to Kat below*
    Congrats on book and please let us see Paris through your eyes!

  5. Angie March 22, 2009 8:41 am

    When life is as stressful and busy as yours, the geographic compartmentalization sounds like a good idea to me. And *shudder* on dental work.

    Get some R&R!

  6. Juli March 23, 2009 2:38 pm

    I am taking my daughter up to my beloved SF for her 13th birthday celebration (we live in San Diego) She wants a girls week away. I relocated here from S.F. 10 years ago. Some of your books give me great glimpses into the city I left behind. I thank you for that. And I agree with Kimmi- I’d love to have some glimpses of Paris through your eyes. A place I will probably never be able to see in this lifetime 🙂 Enjoy your rest.
    xoxoxox

  7. Sandy Wong March 23, 2009 4:19 pm

    I have just begun reading the book you wrote about your son and his struggles. In every word you’ve written, I see my own daughter. She is 15 years old and has been diagnosed as bipolar. I am reading, but am almost afraid to reach the end of the book, where he takes his own life. I am terrified of losing my daughter, and at times I feel so alone in dealing with her problems. Bless you for writing that book, which must have been a very difficult task, even for an accomplished writer like you. I’ve always thought that I should write a book so that people will know what we’ve been going through, but I don’t have to. You’ve said it all.

  8. Marizca Fouche March 24, 2009 2:43 am

    Hi Danielle Steel
    I would just like to say that I think you are one of the best writers from all the books I have read so far. I am currently also trying to write a book but never seem to get to finish. My first book I have read was THE RING you wrote and since then I can’nt seem to stop reading. My mom bought me 5 of your books for christmas I have only read 2 so far and is busy with the 3rd one. (already read these of the 5 books = House on Hope Street & Silint Honor (excelent book) I’m currently reading The Kiss.
    My Favourite will always be Palomino
    I hope one day to have all your books, you are a great writer

    Thank you for writing

  9. Michele March 24, 2009 9:30 am

    I have a 9 year old son (James) with Bipolar, he was diagnosed at age 5. I read the book you wrote about Nick and I couldn’t put it down. You went through alot with him and I can identify with alot of it. I wish I could be inside my childs head for one day just to understand him better, see what he thinks, why he reacts, what he percieves, and why he responds the way he does, just to help him. If you have any advice or suggestions on how I can help my son better, please email me. 🙂
    Thank you,

    Michele

  10. Anete April 15, 2009 7:45 am

    Danielle, I love your work and since I was 10 years old I read all your books. I have one life history fantastic and I’d like to send to you a resume just for you to see. For me its a miracle of life, and only you can tell this to other people with all the details. If you want, let me know. Thanks,

  11. bhing April 20, 2009 10:54 pm

    gud day…………..im one of your avid reader here in the philippines.I discover your books last 2004,and i really like it.eventhough,were having hard times here in our country,i see to it that i buy your books(only those in “sale” section),though its out of my budget.Thanks,Ms.Steel…hope,that i can buy and read all your books.

  12. Jeanie Woolledge April 24, 2009 8:30 am

    Hi Danielle,
    You have always been an inspiration to me through your books. I love the twists in your stories. I am a beginning novel writer but have written a few children’s books. I was wondering about your background, training and advise to someone starting out. Also, do you mentor? Continue with the great work.

  13. Margie Prentice April 24, 2009 8:43 am

    Hello there, I have many, many Danielle Steel Books. I have just finished re-reading THE GIFT.
    I was wondering if there was a sequel?
    I thought perhaps I had missed it.
    I am 67 years old, and am going today to find your latest. Thank You for the person you are
    and for your wonderful ability you are sharing
    with the world.
    Margie

  14. Kimberly Bonano Alvarez July 28, 2009 12:29 pm

    So sweet how you keep in touch… 🙂 I enjoyed your other post about your drinking and eating habits; I tried to comment on it, but the comment section is turned off… Anyway, I like hearing that you don’t drink alcohol; I’ve never understood the appeal either; I wish I shared your non-need for food though! I’m afraid food is too much of a comfort to me…