From Childhood Books to My Debut Novel: Updates, Stories, and a Call for Reviewers

Thanks for Your Questions!
Over the past few weeks, I’ve received a flood of questions about my writing journey and my upcoming novel, The Long Walk Home: When the Power Dies. I’m thrilled by your interest! So pardon my dust! This post is a bit of housekeeping to answer those questions, share exciting updates, and invite you to join me on this adventure.
The Spark That Started It All
Writing has been my passion since childhood. I still vividly recall a moment in fourth grade, around 1979, when I realized writing could be my calling. I was engrossed in a children’s book—maybe Encyclopedia Brown by Donald J. Sobol or Beverly Cleary’s Ramona series—where a character walked down a school hallway, nose buried in a book. That image of a quirky, introspective dreamer, lost in their own world, stuck with me. It might’ve been another book from that era, but it sparked my love for storytelling, especially young adult and survival tales like my novel’s hero, Tommy, navigating a powerless world.
Big News for The Long Walk Home
I might’ve jumped the gun by announcing my debut novel, The Long Walk Home: When the Power Dies, but I’m too excited to hold back! Here’s the latest: I’ve approved the final manuscript and typesetting, and the front cover is nearly done—though I suggested minor tweaks after noticing Bethany’s wrist looked off in the draft (and the revised image felt a tad dark). I’m awaiting the spine and back cover designs, but we’re inches from going to press! My goal is to have the book on sale by Black Friday, November 28, 2025, just in time for the Christmas season.
Calling All Reviewers!
I’m thrilled to open my first call for reviewers. My dream reviewers are teens (guys and gals) who love YA survival stories and can read an eBook, then share an honest review on Amazon, Goodreads, or other online bookstores. That said, I welcome reviewers of all ages, as many as recommended by my publisher, Defiance Press, who are excited to share honest feedback. Interested? Drop a comment below or contact me directly!
Stay Connected Online
While the book takes shape, I’m keeping the momentum going with weekly posts on my website, www.mikeritterhouse.com, and my Substack, mhritterhouse.substack.com. I’m also sprucing up my website with a media kit, lesson plans for educators, and an email marketing plan to keep you in the loop. If you’re a pro at integrating email marketing with blog websites, I’d love your expertise—drop a comment below!
More Stories in the Works
I’m diving deeper into the Long Walk Home universe with new fiction. First up is a standalone short story about Bethany’s family, followed by a three-part short story series about a Winter Park ski lift mechanic fighting to get home to the Enchanted Circle in New Mexico. I’m thrilled to explore how the power outage reshapes the American West! Plus, I’m hard at work on the sequel novel, tentatively titled Free From Shadows, which follows Tommy, Bethany, and a new female character as they race to rescue Charlie from captors near Salt Lake City, Utah. Stay tuned for more details!
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Thank you for your support and patience as I navigate publishing my first novel. I’d love to hear your thoughts, story ideas, or blog post suggestions—comment below or reach out! I’m committed to connecting with you here and sharing more updates soon.

All the best!