If this is the day to tell the story, it begins one day in February, I would guess, in 2007. Jan Brogan, Rosemary Harris, and I were attending a Sisters in Crime meeting at someone’s house, maybe… Jan's house? It was big and airy, with a huge kitchen. We were supposed to have a speaker— a state trooper who was going to talk to us about crime scenes. Time went by, the appointed hour of his arrival went by, tick tock tick tock, and several minutes more.
He simply never showed up! For some reason all decided he had stayed home to watch Sunday football. I don’t think any one of us ever said: ”Maybe he got called out to a crime scene?” Shows how we were thinking.
Anyway, to save the meeting from being a total disaster, Rosemary and Jan and I did a panel on… everything writing and mystery and publishing. And after it was over, we realized we’d had so much fun we decided to form a blog. We invited Hallie to join us. Hallie came over to my house, and we came up with the name Jungle Red, from, of course, the Clare Boothe Luce play “The Women.” Where the cast is all women! And they wear a nail polish called Jungle Red. (More I cannot say, because it’s a plot point in the movie.)
Our first blog, entitled On First Efforts, was posted Thursday, March 22, 2007.
FIFTEEN YEARS AGO! Here it is: https://www.jungleredwriters.com/2007/02/hello-world.html
We clearly had not figured out font size.
And ha! According to Alexa, according to the Chicago Public Library, the classic 15th anniversary gift is crystal! (Wouldn’t you love to have a crystal ball?)
We are endlessly endlessly grateful, for your – – according to Google insights – – 10,412,300 views. TEN POINT FOUR MILLION! Amazing! And we have done 4763 posts. Whoa. That’s a lotta words, and a lotta discussion.
Jungle Red is one of the first things I think about when I wake up in the morning. Isn’t that strange? And all of you are such astonishingly treasured friends. You Jungle Red sisters, you are completely flawlessly incredible.
We are endlessly endlessly grateful, for your – – according to Google insights – – 10,412,300 views. TEN POINT FOUR MILLION! Amazing! And we have done 4763 posts. Whoa. That’s a lotta words, and a lotta discussion.
Jungle Red is one of the first things I think about when I wake up in the morning. Isn’t that strange? And all of you are such astonishingly treasured friends. You Jungle Red sisters, you are completely flawlessly incredible.
And every single one of you who joins us in the comments. We cannot tell you how much we adore you, and rely on you, and if we HAD a crystal ball, we would not have believed how wonderful you would all turn out to be.
Sister Reds, how did you join? Tell us your story!
HALLIE EPHRON: I just went back and read that first blog and I confess I have no memory of having written my part. Zip. Zilch. But we definitely had a tone and a voice that has continued to this day.
I remember Hank inviting me to join and being THRILLED to be part of a new blog of women mystery writers. At the time there were several thriving ones, and virtually all (except one, maybe) are now defunct. I totally credit Hank for our survival - remembering SHE was the one who realized we each needed to be present… we couldn’t mail it in and do your thing our week and then fade into the woodwork. It needed to feel like a community and we each needed to BE there.
And that’s what I love about it. Not us seven. But US ALL.
RHYS BOWEN: I think I joined in 2010. I met Hank at Malice. I think it may have been the time we were both up for an Agatha and we both lost and we sat together with glasses of white wine talking until about 2 in the morning (mainly about how we were robbed, I suspect!) And afterward she asked me to join the blog. I had another blog going at the time–The Ladykillers, that I had started with my good friends Lyn Hamilton, Cara Black and a couple of others. So I asked myself whether I needed another blog, especially one with a big commitment. But I decided to give it a try and 12 years later I’m still here.
It is a commitment, definitely, but I wouldn’t swap the sisterhood that has developed for anything. We chat almost every day, not just on the blog, but on personal matters. It really is like having sisters who care. And the greater community of Jungle Red readers have become extended family. What a blessing, especially during the difficult times we have just gone through.
HANK: SO funny! I do remember that late night Malice session–and it was life-changingly hilarious! But I think…you were already a Red then. I think you talked to me about it at the St. Martin’s party at Bouchercon. In…St. Louis? And after you brought it up, I invited you without even asking the others! (And I wasn’t even worried about making such a unilateral and unauthorized move.)
JENN McKINLAY: I’m the newest Red and have been here for 5 years, which seems crazy to me. I was invited by both Rhys and Lucy in 2017, and I knew Debs as well, but Hallie, Hank, and Julia needed to be won over :) I’m still here so I assume that went okay or I just wore them down into accepting me, which is also how I got published so not completely unlikely.
It has been a privilege to be a Red. It is a sisterhood, for sure, and I value each and every one of them as well as the community of the Reds, which is the best in the blog world, IMHO.
HANK: HA! Won over? You had me at bad breakfast choices, amazing one!
LUCY BURDETTE: It’s an honor to be a Red, plus so much work and so much fun! I came in at the end of 2007, when we posted much less frequently than we do now. Here’s the link if you want a look back: https://www.jungleredwriters.com/2007/12/on-roberta.html
I am quite sure Hank’s the one who pushed us, dragged us, implored us to write daily.(A new blog every single day–it’s amazing!) We love each other and we love each other’s books and we love all of you for being part of this community. I would like to raise a toast to 15 years of sisterhood and brotherhood and survival through tough times and celebration of good ones. May there be much more of the latter!
DEBORAH CROMBIE: Monday, January 10th, 2011, Julia and I made our first appearance on Jungle Red! https://www.jungleredwriters.com/2011/01/happy-new-reds.html
It took me some scanning to find that, I can tell you, but it was such fun to skim through so many posts and see so many dear friends and wonderful books. I can’t believe it’s been more than eleven years already…
I knew Rhys, and Hallie, and dear Jan Brogan. I can’t remember now who actually issued the invitation…was it Hallie? I was enormously flattered and thought it would be fun, so said yes without further ado.
I had NO IDEA what I was getting into. Seven days a week for eleven years! But, seriously, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. The connections we’ve made with our wonderful readers, the books and writers we’ve discovered, but most of all the friendship and the support of my fellow REDS, my blog sisters, has been priceless, and I can’t imagine not being a part of this community. Here’s to another TEN MILLION views!
JULIA SPENCER-FLEMING: I recall exactly what preceded getting invited to join this fabulous sorority - I was attending the San Francisco Bouchercon, the first one I’d been to in several years, and I kept reintroducing myself because in the interim, I had let my hair go natural (ie, gray/silver/white.) I bumped into Hank, and she knew it was me, thank you, dear, and we hung out for several hours.
Then about a week after the conference, I got an email inviting me to join! It had been my secret audition! Or at least that’s what I assumed.
((HANK: WHAT? No no no, no audition! SO funny. I was in AWE of seeing you, and we had a great time. There was NOTHING planned, and NO audition in ANY way. And afterward, I suggested it to the others, and they cheered from sea to shining sea. Absolutely spontaneous. Anyway. Just setting it all straight. Gotta keep history true.))
JULIA: I talked with Ross before saying yes, and he reminded me that if it got too much, I could always bow out gracefully. There have definitely been weeks I wanted to make a quick exit, when a guest falls through and I can’t post pictures and I suddenly remember Holy cow, I haven’t put up tomorrow’s blog at 9:30pm. But, like everyone else, I can’t imagine not being here with my sisters and this wonderful community. Through good times and bad, sorrows and celebrations, we’ve been there for each other - and isn’t that the definition of family?
HANK: Hear hear! SO true. And I love how the memories and interconnected and tangled. So darling readers, how did YOU find us? And when?
Sister Reds, how did you join? Tell us your story!
HALLIE EPHRON: I just went back and read that first blog and I confess I have no memory of having written my part. Zip. Zilch. But we definitely had a tone and a voice that has continued to this day.
I remember Hank inviting me to join and being THRILLED to be part of a new blog of women mystery writers. At the time there were several thriving ones, and virtually all (except one, maybe) are now defunct. I totally credit Hank for our survival - remembering SHE was the one who realized we each needed to be present… we couldn’t mail it in and do your thing our week and then fade into the woodwork. It needed to feel like a community and we each needed to BE there.
And that’s what I love about it. Not us seven. But US ALL.
 |
| With Red Alum the fab Ingrid Thoft! |
RHYS BOWEN: I think I joined in 2010. I met Hank at Malice. I think it may have been the time we were both up for an Agatha and we both lost and we sat together with glasses of white wine talking until about 2 in the morning (mainly about how we were robbed, I suspect!) And afterward she asked me to join the blog. I had another blog going at the time–The Ladykillers, that I had started with my good friends Lyn Hamilton, Cara Black and a couple of others. So I asked myself whether I needed another blog, especially one with a big commitment. But I decided to give it a try and 12 years later I’m still here.
It is a commitment, definitely, but I wouldn’t swap the sisterhood that has developed for anything. We chat almost every day, not just on the blog, but on personal matters. It really is like having sisters who care. And the greater community of Jungle Red readers have become extended family. What a blessing, especially during the difficult times we have just gone through.
HANK: SO funny! I do remember that late night Malice session–and it was life-changingly hilarious! But I think…you were already a Red then. I think you talked to me about it at the St. Martin’s party at Bouchercon. In…St. Louis? And after you brought it up, I invited you without even asking the others! (And I wasn’t even worried about making such a unilateral and unauthorized move.)
JENN McKINLAY: I’m the newest Red and have been here for 5 years, which seems crazy to me. I was invited by both Rhys and Lucy in 2017, and I knew Debs as well, but Hallie, Hank, and Julia needed to be won over :) I’m still here so I assume that went okay or I just wore them down into accepting me, which is also how I got published so not completely unlikely.
It has been a privilege to be a Red. It is a sisterhood, for sure, and I value each and every one of them as well as the community of the Reds, which is the best in the blog world, IMHO.
HANK: HA! Won over? You had me at bad breakfast choices, amazing one!
LUCY BURDETTE: It’s an honor to be a Red, plus so much work and so much fun! I came in at the end of 2007, when we posted much less frequently than we do now. Here’s the link if you want a look back: https://www.jungleredwriters.com/2007/12/on-roberta.html
I am quite sure Hank’s the one who pushed us, dragged us, implored us to write daily.(A new blog every single day–it’s amazing!) We love each other and we love each other’s books and we love all of you for being part of this community. I would like to raise a toast to 15 years of sisterhood and brotherhood and survival through tough times and celebration of good ones. May there be much more of the latter!
 |
| Celebrating at the fab Poisoned Pen |
DEBORAH CROMBIE: Monday, January 10th, 2011, Julia and I made our first appearance on Jungle Red! https://www.jungleredwriters.com/2011/01/happy-new-reds.html
It took me some scanning to find that, I can tell you, but it was such fun to skim through so many posts and see so many dear friends and wonderful books. I can’t believe it’s been more than eleven years already…
I knew Rhys, and Hallie, and dear Jan Brogan. I can’t remember now who actually issued the invitation…was it Hallie? I was enormously flattered and thought it would be fun, so said yes without further ado.
I had NO IDEA what I was getting into. Seven days a week for eleven years! But, seriously, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. The connections we’ve made with our wonderful readers, the books and writers we’ve discovered, but most of all the friendship and the support of my fellow REDS, my blog sisters, has been priceless, and I can’t imagine not being a part of this community. Here’s to another TEN MILLION views!
JULIA SPENCER-FLEMING: I recall exactly what preceded getting invited to join this fabulous sorority - I was attending the San Francisco Bouchercon, the first one I’d been to in several years, and I kept reintroducing myself because in the interim, I had let my hair go natural (ie, gray/silver/white.) I bumped into Hank, and she knew it was me, thank you, dear, and we hung out for several hours.
Then about a week after the conference, I got an email inviting me to join! It had been my secret audition! Or at least that’s what I assumed.
((HANK: WHAT? No no no, no audition! SO funny. I was in AWE of seeing you, and we had a great time. There was NOTHING planned, and NO audition in ANY way. And afterward, I suggested it to the others, and they cheered from sea to shining sea. Absolutely spontaneous. Anyway. Just setting it all straight. Gotta keep history true.))
JULIA: I talked with Ross before saying yes, and he reminded me that if it got too much, I could always bow out gracefully. There have definitely been weeks I wanted to make a quick exit, when a guest falls through and I can’t post pictures and I suddenly remember Holy cow, I haven’t put up tomorrow’s blog at 9:30pm. But, like everyone else, I can’t imagine not being here with my sisters and this wonderful community. Through good times and bad, sorrows and celebrations, we’ve been there for each other - and isn’t that the definition of family?
HANK: Hear hear! SO true. And I love how the memories and interconnected and tangled. So darling readers, how did YOU find us? And when?
We love you SO much!
Happy Anniversary, ladies!
ReplyDeleteI don’t have the words to tell you how much I have enjoyed reading your posts each day. Thank you for your dedication to this wonderful blog.
How did I find you? Julia said something on her website about posting on Jungle Red Writers, so . . . .
And you are so much a part of our family! We love seeing you every day, dear Joan, and rely on it! Xxxx
DeleteHappy 15 years, Reds! I'm not sure when I found your blog. A dear friend and I have been exchanging mystery books at Christmas for almost 30 years now. One year she gave me Julia's first Clare/Russ book. I checked out Julia's blog and went from there to the Reds' blog. Rosemary was still posting at that time so that might help narrow it down. I may not comment daily but I definitely read the conversations every day and enjoy them.
ReplyDeletePat D you, you have been with us for such a long time! Thank you thank you thank you …
DeleteI am a night owl, stay up late and rise late, so I'm either posting early, like now, or late, in the afternoon. But, whichever it is, I need my daily dose of the Jungle Reds. I do miss occasionally, but I always read it at some point. This blog has become part of my day, one of the delightful parts. It truly is like family here.
ReplyDeleteMy first Bouchercon was 2013 in Albany, and while it isn't my favorite place I've been for a Bouchercon, it was pure magic. I can't really remember how I started reading all the Reds' books before that Bouchercon, but I had binged and read so much of the series by the Reds when fall 2013 rolled around. And, I'm not sure if I started following the blog that year before Bouchercon or after. I think it must have been before because meeting the Reds was at the top of my list for my first Bouchercon. I met you all right before you went into the room for your panel, and I know you thought I was a crazy fan. I must have been hopping up and down with joy. And, then the panel, the game show, and I was in love forever. Julia, with Ross and youngest handing out the book prizes (yes I got one), it was so much fun. I knew after that day I would follow you ladies and your writing anywhere. I was thrilled to be on hand when the blog won an Anthony at St. Pete Bouchercon.
And, just one more thing. I can't thank you enough for all the great reading I've come by here on the blog besides your all's great reading. My crime/mystery reading blossomed under the authors and titles you've featured. Thank you, thank you, thank you for being so special!
OK, I couldn't quit without saying how much it's also meant to me to meet so many of the commenters on here and to read their wonderful contributions, too.
That Albany panel was such fun, Kathy!
DeleteOh yes, that panel will live in Red‘s history! So true! Those take a lot of preparation, and I think we spent the entire time laughing. thank you so much for everything!
DeleteI so clearly remember meeting you then, Kathy! And that panel was so much fun. I loved that Bouchercon, in spite of its difficulties.
DeleteThe Egg!
DeleteCongrats on 15 years! I know I've been in and out as a regular visitor over that time, but the last few years, I've enjoyed visiting every day. I don't always feel like I have something to contribute, so I don't always comment, but I stop by and check in every day.
ReplyDeleteThat is so wonderful to know! Hooray! And we rely on it…
DeleteCongratulations to 15 years! Here’s to 15 more!! Love you!
ReplyDeleteAwwww thank you! We feel just the same way! xxx
DeleteREDS: Big congratulations on 15 years!! Writing 4763 posts and having over 10.4 million views just boggles the mind...just WOW!
ReplyDeleteI started reading (and lurking) on the JRW in late 2007. Even back then, JRW was the first blog I read before leaving home at 6:20 am to commute to my Environment Canada job in north Toronto.
I remember meeting Rosemary Harris in person at LCC2008 in Denver and I knew her as being a Red.
And seeing the Reds at Bouchercon is a highlight. Like Kathy, I was also at the Albany Bouchercon.
Your game show was hilarious and I remember Ross and Youngest running down the aisles handing out prizes.
I started commenting on a regular basis once I retired from Environment Canada in 2015.
JRW is still the first blog that I visit each morning. You are amazing, talented ladies who not only write great books but also made the commitment to create a wonderful online community on readers and commenters. The JRW guest author posts, book recommendations and various fun/crazy topics that often make me smile/laugh and has been much needed especially during the past 2 years.
Thanks so much and love live the Reds!
xoxoxo
That Albany game show is imprinted on my memory, Grace. You should have seen the run- through the night before !
DeleteOh, so right, Rhys! Tales we will never reveal..xxo (and JeanPaul Belmondo!)
DeleteRHYS/HANK: Yes, I am sure there is a lot of prep and practice needed for your fun events. Was this the event that Hallie brought those huge red buttons that kept buzzing in her carry-on luggage?
DeleteAnd reading today's comments, it's great that so many JRW regulars were also there: Edith, Dru. I laughed so hard during that game show. It's certainly a memorable Reds Bouchercon event.
What you've done is an achievement, dear REDS. There's a lot of talk about sisterhood, but this is the real thing, and we readers get to enjoy your connection to each other and to us and feel part of a special community. Thank you! As for me, I found this blog through Debs, but now I feel a connection with all of you, and it's a pleasure.
ReplyDeleteAw...thank you! It really is a treasure...
DeleteThank you, Kim! I hope we get to meet up at a Bouchercon someday soon!
DeleteSo many congratulations! You all are one of the best parts of my early morning and the second blog I read each day.
ReplyDeleteYou must know Jungle Reds was the main inspiration behind the Wicked Authors blog when we started nine (I think) years ago.
I can't remember exactly when the blog came onto my radar. It must have been before 2009, because I know I was a regular reader before I went to Seascape and got a big boost on my first book from Hallie and Roberta and Sue Hubbard.
I am grateful for being welcomed as a guest over and over, and for being able to comment and interact with my commenter pals. Thank you for fostering this community!
Hurray! Love the Wickeds...and oh, yes, Seascape! That was so brilliant.
DeleteWow! Congratulations on your anniversary! I've really been enjoying reading the blog and am
ReplyDeleteSO impressed that you post every day. There's a whole lotta bloggers out there who could learn from you. Cheers!
Oh, so great to see you! We know from the stats that way more people read the bog than actually comment--so we are always delighted to hear from them. Yes, every day..it's part of the deal! x
DeleteHow did I find Jungle Red? I met Hank at a book signing for Ingrid Thoft and everything came through that chance meeting.
ReplyDeleteSo congratulations on 15 years and here's to at least 15 more!
Wow--I remember!
DeleteWe miss lovely Ingrid!
DeleteMazel tov on your 15th Anniversary! Incredible! It is a feat to put a blog up every day! In spite of being a Judy-come-lately, I can hardly begin my day without visiting JRW first. Thank you for welcoming me and my comments and for participating in conversations about books and issues and gripes and celebrations!
ReplyDeleteFirst I found Deb's books, then her Facebook page, then this blog. After a few days I was hooked! Then I began to read all the other Reds books and found other fabulous authors here. My favorite day of each month is "what we're reading" followed closely by "what we're writing."
I feel like I have friends. Thank you for opening the door! I adore you all.
Oh, thats great to know! It's terrific to hear what you all love...thank you! ANd we love seeing you here! xx
DeleteJudy, you are the uber reader! And we are so glad you're here every day!
DeleteHappy Anniversary, Reds! Thank you for inviting all of us to join the party every single day!
ReplyDeleteYAY, Brenda! Welcome welcome-and thank you for celebrating with us!
Deletethanks to each of you for the kind comments! You know the blog would not exist without you, right? xoxo
ReplyDeleteSO true, dear Lucy/Roberta! xx
DeleteHappy anniversary! Although I tend to lurk, I read Jungle Reds daily. Here's to another 15 plus!
ReplyDeleteAww..thank you! Love that you are here!
DeleteHappy crystal (ball) anniversary! I learned about JRW from Julia's author bio. And then I met Hank in Chicago in 2014 at an MWA all-day event (teach in? workshop?). I became a regular reader after that.
ReplyDeleteHank, see you at Killer Nashville in August.
Margaret, weren't we at that workshop together? I think it was MWA University, and Hallie was one of the teachers, too, along with Daniel Stashower.
DeleteYou introduced yourself, and I blanked on recognizing your name because I hadn't realized you also live in this area, and we were out of context! I'm still embarrassed about that, so sorry.
That's so great! Yes, MWA University, with me and Hallie and Dan and...Reed? And Jess Lourey, maybe?
DeleteJess, for sure!
DeleteHow cute are y'all?? Congrats. ☺️
ReplyDeleteAww..and we are so thrilled about your new book! Love to have you do a guest slot--let me know! xxx
DeleteI already have her scheduled Hank:)
DeleteOh, so perfect! YAY!
DeleteMega congrats on 15 years: Wow! I found my way here as a reader of books by Julia and Debs, and have gone on to read all the Reds. I visit every day and comment often. And I love it -- the daily posts, the humour, the learning, the fun...it's the real thing. Thank you! And here's to many more years.
ReplyDeleteI cannot leave without stating my gratitude for the online friendships I have made with other commenters. So great to make such a good connection here that it carries over to Facebook, email and more. Thank you, dear sister Reds, for that!
Yes! You are such a treasure! xxx And thank you thank you!
DeleteWow! Popping the cork here to a toast for the Reds (and readers)! Julia and Deborah were already here when I discovered JRW and that was before Ingrid and Jenn arrived--so, more than five years for me. I found you when I was searching online for information on when Deborah's and Julia's next books might be coming out. I'd been a longtime fan of Rhys's Molly Murphy series, too. The posts were interesting, lively, there was lots of back and forth between authors and readers--new authors showed up--I kept coming back for more!
ReplyDeleteYAY, Flora---yes, you have been with us a long time! And we are so grateful...
DeleteCongratulations!! I remember that impromptu panel--who knew what magic would be launched?
ReplyDeleteoh, of course! And think of all the wonderful things that have happend to YOU since!
Delete<3
DeleteFifteen years! That is quite the accomplishment, especially for a blog. Mega congratulations, dearest Reds.
ReplyDeleteI was a regular "backblogger" on The Lipstick Chronicles, virtually meeting so many authors and readers, including some of the regulars here. I found TLC because I had been a huge fan of Santa Barbara when I was homebound and pregnant in 1984. One of the stars, Harley Jane Kozak, wrote a couple mysteries and I LOVED them, and searched out her website for more information. She had a list of favorite blogs, including TLC and Jungle Reds, which is how I started reading blogs like Criminati and Working Stiffs and others. When Nancy Martin closed TLC in 2011 I stopped being a casual drop-in visitor to JRW and started reading most days.
I met Hank and Rosemary at the Indianapolis Bouchercon in 2011, although we had "known" one another already for quite awhile, via the blog. And I met Hallie soon afterwards. More accurately than that I can't get! Lovely in all ways, though.
Thank you for the books, the introductions to other authors, the friendships, the many laughs, and the daily edification. Love you all.
KAREN: I also fondly remember reading The Lipstick Chronicles and Criminati blogs. The only mystery blog that I regularly read that has been online longer than JRW is the blog written by the amazing Lesa Holstine. I think she celebrated her 18th blog anniversary earlier this year.
DeleteOh, yes, TLC! And the brilliant Nancy Martin was my "how to have a successful blog" mentor, that's for sure.
DeleteANd yes, it did feel as if we already knew each other! And Harley's books were amazing. She's such a star. xoxxoo
Cornelia Read was on TLC for awhile, and then she drew me to her essays on Criminati.
DeleteHank, Nancy Martin commented on your first JRW blog, too!
Murderati, not Criminati.
DeleteHappy Anniversary Jungle Red!
ReplyDeleteI can't remember when I started visiting this site, but I do remember seeing how much fun you guys were at Albany Bouchercon. I remember participating in two of your fun events.
Yes, I remember you were there! SO fun!
DeleteYes we love having you participate Dru!
DeleteHappy 15th Anniversary Reds ! Wow what achievement !
ReplyDeleteI came to this blog, invited by Hank, when LTC's blog ended. When was this ? Many years ago.
I read everyday and comment occasionally ( except that lately my comments often don't go through, don't know why ).
I feel being part of this community and it embellishes my life. Here, I can share my passion for books , I can share my opinions. The comments are as important as the posts, they are like a conversation with friends.
I' ve read books from all the Reds and of many (writers ) commenters of the blog and, of course, of authors introduced by this blog.
Bravo for all your good work. Here's to many many more years Ladies !
Awww...thank you! LOVE that you are here! xx
DeleteIt was such a pleasure to meet you at the Dallas Bouchercon, Danielle!
DeleteI came to this blog when I started following Julia and then discovered all of the rest of you, some of whom I was already reading. Thank you for continuing. I love your stories, your recommendations, your friends and your recipes.
ReplyDeleteOh, yes, recipes! And our Celia is such a star, too! xxx
DeleteHappy Anniversary Reds! I am a reader, not a writer. And you are all amazing and have brought me much laughter and comfort. Especially the last 2 years. Thank you for what you do.
ReplyDeleteOh, Ann, thank you. Yes, we wondered how he plague would affect the blog--all the more important to have it, right?
DeleteHappy Anniversary Reds! You are fabulous! I came across you sometime after Debs and Julia joined because those two had long been faves of mine. I love your stories, your humor, and your sisterhood. I've definitely been introduced to a dizzying array of writers. I raise my cup of Yorkshire Gold tea to you!
ReplyDeleteAnd toasting you, too, Gillian!
DeleteHappy Anniversary Reds! 15 years is truly a remarkable achievement! I had been reading the Lipstick Chronicles and felt bereft when they disbanded but I don't know exactly how I found the Reds. I'm guessing it might have been mentioned at an author's website, I checked it out and have been showing up almost every day since. So glad that I do, and I have so many new friends and books to show for it! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
ReplyDeleteYAY, JuUdi! I tried to shepherd TLC's backbloggers here to Jungle Red--I loved being on TLC, and did not want to leave that community behind!
DeleteJudi!
DeleteHappy Anniversary you all, I so enjoy your blog.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Joan! xxx
DeleteHappy anniversary! I found Jungle Red while reading Julia’s posts.
ReplyDeleteWOnderful! xxx
DeleteCongratulations, Mazel Tov, and Well Done You! Fifteen years is an achievement to be proud of. The Internet moves in mysterious ways. About a week ago JRW stopped appearing in my mail, just vanished. Is there a detective in the house? But this am here you are again and I am so happy. How did I meet you all? Well through Julia. We met in church which seems in line with her protagonists. So together with reading her books I began to read the blog usually in the hopes of getting a little peek into the next book. I don’t remember when she asked me to share a recipe but by searching JRW and my notes 2019 is the closest I can come. But more important is finding seven great authors to enjoy and many more through the blog together with becoming a part of this community. You are all so precious to me and I love being a small cog in the wheel. I can’t emphasize the daily JRW importance during the pandemic together with Hank’s wonderful program - The Back Room - and all the Zooms. Thank you, thank you and I will raise a glass later with Julia. One day I hope we will all be cooking together.
ReplyDeleteTwo things: One, yes, we are aware of the email thing--our web person said it "somehow got paused" and now should be working. Will you let me know?
DeleteAnd two, your cooking demos have raised the bar beyond what we could ever imagine! You are such a STAR, and we are so grateful! xx
I didn’t even know JRW could be received as an email! I vaguely remember signing up for some kind of email notifications a few years ago but I never received anything. Because I was still working at the time, I didn’t pursue it. How can I get on the email list?
DeleteThanks.
DebRo
Go up to the top of the blog, and you will see a ox that says "follow us by email" or something like that. Just pop in our address. (and then will you let me know that it works? Our web person insists it's fine now...)
DeleteHank, thank you, thank you you brought tears to my eyes. JRW is so important to me and I’ve had such joy sharing meals with everyone. Actually the best way as only Julia, Victor and I get fat! Haha. I hadn’t told Julia of the latest because I was just entering your url! But no worries I’ll keep you informed.
DeleteHA! xxxxx Long may you cook!
DeleteI am sad that I didn't find you sooner! But the last year I have truly enjoyed these emails from you! I have discovered new titles and authors thanks to all of you! Happy anniversary!
ReplyDeleteAwww...that's so sweet of you! And we are so glad you found us!
DeleteHappy anniversary/birthday/whatever dear Reds. Crystal. Maybe earrings? A crystal pendant? Here's to another fifteen years!
ReplyDeleteI don't recall when or how I got here. I think it had to be somewhere around 2012, after I went to my first Bouchercon in Cleveland as a writer dreaming of publication some day. No, it was earlier because I remember seeing Hank in the hotel and thinking, "I'm in the right spot!" But not much earlier. And it was either Nancy Martin or Annette Dashofy who said, "Are you reading the Jungle Red blog?" and here I am.
One of the highlights of my life was emailing Hank and saying, "My debut novel is coming out - can I guest post?" And she said yes!
Now, day job allowing, it's one of the first things I check, Monday through Friday and things always feel a bit off if I don't. I should read on weekends, but honestly, after spending five days on the computer (for work and writing) I just don't want to bring it out.
So glad I found this fabulous community!
AWw...what a wonderful memory! Hurray! And this is so lovely of you..thank you! x
DeleteI think I first found out about JRW after winning one of Hank’s Charlotte McNally books at The Lipstick Chronicles. I came to JRW occasionally, and then became a regular daily reader when TLC was discontinued. My day is not complete without JRW. You are the kindest ladies! I will never forget receiving emails of support from some of you when I was very sick a couple of years ago! I enjoy the daily discussions here so much.
ReplyDeleteMay JRW be around for many more years!
XOXOX
DebRo
AWw...we love you, darling DebRo! (But you know that!)
Delete15 years! Wow, just wow. What an accomplishment. Your commitment to this blog is inspiring. If you can find the time in your days, every day, to find something interesting to discuss and pleasant to say, then I can find the time to read it and comment, insofar as possible for me, in kind. Thank you all.
ReplyDeleteI haven't been here all that long. Two years max, maybe. I learned about JRW because I follow Deb on FB and the link kept showing up. One day I clicked it and there you all were. Deb, Julia and Rhys have been on my "read every word" list for ages but the rest of you, I'm sorry to say, I did not know. Curious, I dipped in to read occasionally, thinking that I didn't really have much to add since most of what I might say was already there. Then one day, someone hit one of my buttons and I published a post and began to read regularly. And I have begun to find a voice. That is what I get out of this but I always wondered what the Reds got from it. I have a better idea of that now.
Here's to community in all the forms. Congratulations.
Oh, what a WONDERFUL story! And we are so thrilled you are here! xxxx
DeleteIt's always a treat to see your comments, c d!
DeleteYears ago I worked 2 miles from The Poisoned Pen and I visited regularly. One of Julia’s books was the first I read from this group of wonderful women and writers! Then Deborah, then Hank! I think it was a post from Julia that mentioned this blog and I’ve been reading ever since! Love it
ReplyDeleteYAY, LInda! Thank you! And I love hearing these stories!
DeleteJust keep on keepin' on, ladies. xxxxxx ❤️
ReplyDeleteThank you! We will do our best! x
DeleteCongratulations Reds! I’m not a daily reader, but read at least a couple times a week.... I’m pretty sure I followed Rhys here looking for other authors to read and found you all. I love reading your comments and stories about the life of an author....I’ve picked up many tips and recipes here and hope my occasional comments haven’t been too far out in left field. Thank you for doing this for all of us.
ReplyDeleteLOVE seeing you here...thank you! And oh, it is our pleasure!
DeleteWhat a wonderful trip down memory lane today! And I've loved hearing everyone's stories about how they came to read the blog. You are all the best!
ReplyDeleteSO much fun to read all these, I so agree! xx
DeleteFelicitations. Thanks for connecting, sharing, and forming a community of readers. <3
ReplyDeleteOh, you are such a rock star! Thank you for everything! xx
Delete15 years of anything is a huge accomplishment and doing something daily for that long is doubly-impressive! Congratulations to you all. I am a relative newbie to JRW. I discovered you both as bloggers and authors through Jenn and her facebook posts. Keep on doing what you do. Love it and you all!
ReplyDeleteThank you, dear Marcia! Love this!
DeleteDeborah Crombie lured me here maybe ten years ago, over several glasses of wine at Rick’s in McKinney. And she also suggested I try LCV and Bouchercon. The rest is history!
ReplyDeleteI’m in awe of JRW daily. Thanks to all of you just for being!
We love you so much! xx
DeleteWe love you, Ann!
DeleteDitto Ann, plus we share pandemic puppies:)
DeleteCongratulations to all the Reds! I'm another alum who found you through following TLC. I'd already read a few of Deb and Julia's books from our local library, then "met" Hank on the TLC blog and I was hooked! I remember when Rosemary and Jan were still here. I'm like my "sistah" Kathy Reel, a night owl, so I usually don't always check the blog til later and I like to read all the comments,(& I often get interrupted) before I occasionally reply. But I'm here almost every single day! I love this community and the friendships I've made! Thank you all for giving us so many years of sharing and learning!
ReplyDeleteSO great to hear these stories! And yes, we definitely have the AM people and the PM people...xoxo WHich is also great, because there is always something new!
DeleteLynn, I do think we must be related, so much in common. Even if I happen to comment in the wee hours of the morning, I try to come back and read the later comments. I hope others do that, too.
DeleteCongratulations on 15 years! I start my day with coffee and JRW. You are a delightful group of ladies, and I love the warmth, respect, and love that comes through this blog. I began reading Lucy's books to remember our vacation in Key West after my husband died. Through researching Lucy, I found out about the JRW blog around 8 or so years ago and have been enjoying visiting ever since! I've discovered new authors (Debs and Rhys), which have led to other books at your suggestions, and have so enjoyed being a part of this wonderful community. Thank you for your commitments and for many more years to come!
ReplyDeletethanks for joining us so faithfully Charlene, we're so glad you're here!
DeleteThis is so wonderful! And we welcome you with open arms every day!
DeleteWhoa! Fifteen years is HUGE. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Laurie! So agree!
DeleteWell, mazel tov to all of you! I think I am safe in saying, for ALL your readers, that WE are the lucky ones in having you around all these years. Hoping you'll be here - wherever "here" is in this digital age - for a long,long time.
ReplyDelete(I am am laughing about your name. I didn't know where it came from until very recently, when I happened to see original movie of The Women on tv. SO funny!)
Oh, Triss! You were such a dear friend! And that must’ve been so hilarious to watch that movie! What did you say? xxx
DeleteCongratulations on 15 years of Jungle Red Writers! Never thought of the connection to Clare Booth Luce - LOL
ReplyDeleteHow did I find Jungle Reds??? I am trying to remember. I think someone from Jungle Reds posted in Facebook and I started following since then. By the time I went to Bouchercon in Toronto (Canada), I was following Jungle Reds and I recall meeting Hallie and Lucy in the book room. I was pleasantly surprised that even though I met Hallie for the first time, I could read every word she said. I also met Jenn, Kate Carlisle and Deborah Crombie. That was a hard conference for me because there was NO Oral translators nor Sign Language translators so instead of going to the panels, I hung out in the book room. LOL. And I think I bought too many books. LOL. I met Rhys at a local bookshop event many years ago. I met Hank at Malice Domestic. The only Jungle Red I have not met yet is Julia. Before Jungle Reds, I was reading another blog with Patricia Smiley and Jacqueline Winspear. I cannot recall who else were in that group.
This is a great post, Hank!
Diana
We remember happily meeting you Diana, but sorry you had to miss the panels!
DeleteYes, absolutely! Xxxx
DeleteOh, so late to the party. But CONGRATULATIONS!!! And thank you so much for sticking with it and putting in the hard work it takes to keep this such a wonderful community.
ReplyDeleteI came to Jungle Reds when The Lipstick Chronicles shut down in 2011. I had already been a reader of Debs and Julia before that, but have thoroughly enjoyed adding you all to my reading list since. I absolutely love the sense of community here. My favorite things are "What are you reading" days, excerpts from your current works in process, and the guest bloggers, where I have been introduced to so many wonderful new-to-me authors and books. I wish I was here every single morning like some of you, but I still balance too many things in my life. Will be retiring from my day job in the coming months, so I anticipate becoming even more faithful here after that.
Never too late, of course! And we are so thrilled you are here… I hope your retirement is a wonderful thing, and we are eager to welcome you even more!
DeleteHuzzah and kudos and all those other celebratory words - 15 years of Reds!
ReplyDeleteI'm fairly certain I heard about Reds from Hallie when she was on our 2014 Antioch Writer's Workshop faculty. And I met Hank at Killer Nashville that year, too, at my debut book release. (So sorry AWW folded before Hank could keynote!)
All the other Reds I know only by words on the page (screen!), and I'm thrilled to share company with you all.
Oh, yes, I was so excited to have been asked to do that… I heard it was an incredible event. welcome welcome welcome !
DeleteHappy times fifteen anniversary -- I am not as dedicated a reader as you all are as writers of this blog but I absolutely LOVE it and your books and your recommendations! And I have had the honor of meeting some of you in person -- you are such a special group of women!!! KEEP GOING PLEASE!
ReplyDeleteI think we will Denise, thank you! And great to meet you too, in person:)
DeleteSo great to hear from you! And you are perfectly devoted :-) love love love you !
DeleteHappy 15th blogaversary! You all are such inspirations, so generous, and absolutely inspired The Wickeds. Thank you for all you do for the writing community! You left us all up.
ReplyDeleteOh, Sherry, you are such a rockstar! Thank you so much for the kind words… and you and the wickeds do your share of lifting, too! Xxxxx
DeleteI don't remember how I found JRW. Looking at Goodreads, I read most of Deb's books in 2015. However, I don't remember a JRW without Jenn. So between Jenn's arrival and Ingrid's departure. I read the blog almost every day. But I usually don't get to fully read it until the late afternoon, when everyone else has left to make dinner. So I don't get to comment too much these days. Bjut slowly, I am making my way through the canon of all of your works. Keep them coming.
ReplyDeletewe are glad you're here, whatever the time David!
DeleteAlways wonderful to hear from you, David!
DeleteYou are the bee's knees!
ReplyDeleteHa! Love that!
DeleteHappy 15th anniversary! I don't remember when I came. Rosemary and Jan weren't there but Susan Elia McNeal was. I probably heard about you from Deb or Rhys' Facebook or webpages. Although I read your posts every day, I don't always comment. I like hearing about your books and about guest authors' books. Also recommendations about books, TV, and movies. Comcast had a free preview so I was able to enjoy the first season of Ted Lasso. Hope to be reading the blog for many years to come.
ReplyDeleteThat is a wonderful story, Sally! Thank you ! And yes, we love sharing with you!
Delete
ReplyDeleteDear, dear Reds--I found you all several years ago, can't remember just when, but was immediately captivated, and have read you faithfully every.single.day.ever.since! Wouldn't miss this blog for the world! I'm in California, and not usually online until later in the day, so I'm most often among the last to post--but I'm here! I read each and every one of you, and follow your lives and times delightedly, sometimes sadly as you've shared grief and tribulations as well as joys and triumphs. I admire your families, pets, journeys, and tried your recipes and hints. I'll be 90 in November, so there's no guarantee that I'll still be around, but I stubbornly pre-order your books anyway. (Julia and Deb, please hurry!) Love and congratulations to all of you. See you tomorrow! (I hope.) Lenita Virtue
Oh my goodness, Lenita, this is absolutely wonderful! Thank you thank you thank you— and I am often the last to post as well, so hooray for us! xxx
DeleteHappy 15 years! So fun to read about all your memories!
ReplyDeleteI can't remember when I first heard about JRW, but I definitely remember hearing lots of good stuff about the blog. :)
Jennifer! So wonderful to see you! And thank you for everything…xxx
DeleteI read the Reds blog religiously. Have tried to Google how it was begun, and who joined when, but have been unsuccessful. SO VERY PLEASED to read today's post. Now I can go back and check out all the referenced blogs. Thanks Hank for being the catalyst, and thanks to all the other Reds for such great writing.
ReplyDeletePhoebe! So wonderful to see you! And thank you so much for the incredibly kind words… Love you!
DeleteCongratulations on 15 years. I’m not a regular reader reader but this achievement deserves to be celebrated. I usually stop by after something on Facebook has piqued my interest. I’m sorry I chose a different panel in your time slot at Albany because it sounds like I missed a really fun event.
ReplyDelete