Announcing… the book you’ve been waiting for!

April 15, 2013/Books
We are very excited to announce that my memoir Showing Heart: The True Story of How One Boy Defied the Odds is now available in print and electronic format. 
Showing Heart final Nook
As many of you know Ryan, our four-year-old son, suffers from an extremely rare combination of heart defects.  Ryan was born with a single-ventricle heart that grew outside of his body.  He was given a slim chance of survival by the doctors when his defects were discovered in utero.  Prior to Ryan, there were no known survivors of this combination of defects. I spent the past four years writing a book that shares Ryan’s amazing story and our family’s incredible journey through his “fatal” diagnosis.  We have been blessed to experience the grace of God and see him work miracles in our family and we want to share the good news.
 
To get the word out about Ryan’s story and our family’s experience we are asking for your help. Not only are we asking that you purchase the book, but we are also asking that you share the book with as many friends, family, and acquaintances as you can.  You are officially our marketing team.  This book will not sell without your help and word-of-mouth marketing. Listed below are the ways you can purchase a print or electronic book.
For most other ereaders on Smashwords (you can also find it in the iStore and will soon be able to download it from the Barnes and Noble website.)
Here are some ways you can get the word out:
+ Share the link on Facebook
+ Pin the link to Pinterest (or the link to my blog post announcing the book’s availability)
+ Write a review on the Amazon link
+ Write a review on Goodreads
+ Write a review on Smashwords
+ Email friends and family sharing about a great book you read
+ Talk about the book with other reader-friends
+ Suggest the book to your book club
Happy reading!
p.s. Mother’s Day is just around the corner. This would be a great gift for the mom in your life.

Comments (17)

  • Renee / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    Just placed my order on Amazon and I will do my best to spread the word!

  • Susan Hepler / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    I am Teresa & Herman’s sister-in-law. Teresa has kept us posted the last several years on Ryan’s progress. I am so anxious to download and read the book. We have a book club at church and I am going to try and get them to read the book as well. God is good!!!

    Susan Hepler

  • Frank / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    Bought it!

  • courtney Kraus / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    Just ordered it and can’t wait to read it! I’ve shared it with all of our family and friends too. Thank you for sharing this with everyone!

  • Kasey / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    Your sister, Johanna, has been a friend of mine for years (though I NEVER see her!) and when I saw her post today about your book I knew right away I wanted to get a copy. I am ordering the book today but also wanted to let you know I will do my absolute best to help you spread the word. Once I’ve read it, I’ll post a review with the links to purchase it. What a story it sounds like you have!! Blessings

  • Linda / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    Purchasing it on Amazon right this minute!

    Thanks! I will share on Facebook

    Love, Linda

  • Joellyn / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    Just bought it and read the first few pages on Amazon … sounds *just* like you talking so I can’t wait for it to come! My book club book might have to be put on the back burner!

    Is that Ryan on he front cover? It doesn’t look like him. And what does he have on his back?!

    Hugs to everyone,
    Joellyn

    • (Author) Leighann / April 15, 2013 / Reply

      Joellyn – so nice to hear from you! That isn’t Ryan on the cover… just another cute little boy with a dress-up jetpack on his back. Hope all is well and you enjoy the book.

  • Emily / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    I will be ordering a copy today. We feel that special connection with your family since our son has the same diagnosis. They have had different yet very similar journeys. We will be sharing the book with a lot of friends and family. Thanks for writing it.

    Emily

  • Jean / April 15, 2013 / Reply

    I read the beginning of your book on amazon I can’t wait to receive it in the mail. First three pages and I have tears in my eyes but not in sadness but because I know how it ends! With beautiful little man. I’m very proud of you Leighann you have done a wonderful job. Thank you for sharing such a personal experience with us.

  • Courtney / April 16, 2013 / Reply

    YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Judy / April 16, 2013 / Reply

    Just ordered a copy and can’t wait to read it.

  • Erica / April 17, 2013 / Reply

    Just bought it and shared it on Facebook! I can’t wait to read it!

  • Beth / April 17, 2013 / Reply

    I’m not sure if you’ll remember me, but we corresponded a while back when you had asked for prayer requests. My son has Chiari and I’ve been following Ryan’s story for years now. I’m loving your book!

    • (Author) Leighann / April 18, 2013 / Reply

      Beth, I do remember you! So good to hear from you. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the book.

  • Barbara Wassermam / May 31, 2013 / Reply

    My husband Joel works with Henry and has always tales very fondly of him. I have just started reading the book ( Joel read it 1st and loved And yes you are a strong woman – never doubt that. (Page 35). Thanks for sharing your story and your positive outlook.

    • (Author) Leighann / June 3, 2013 / Reply

      Barb, Thanks for your kind words. Hope you enjoy the book!

Add comment

(c) 2016 Leighann Marquiss