​ On the Cover: Mystery Women of Minnesota Visit New Ulm!

am absolutely thrilled to share my latest story for The Journal! This week, New Ulm got a little more mysterious—and a lot more inspiring—as a trio of award-winning mystery and thriller authors brought their “Women of Mystery Tour” to town.

​If you love a gripping page-turner, a cozy independent bookstore vibe, or just celebrating incredible regional talent, this was an event you didn’t want to miss.

​ Read the Full Story on The Journal Website Here!

​ Highlights from the Tour

​We had a lively crowd of about 25 dedicated readers pack into Lykke Books and the NU Brew Cafe for an intimate evening of literary discussion, audience Q&A, and book signings. The panel featured an incredible lineup of authors:

  • Jess Lourey: New York Times bestselling author who took us inside a thrilling, dystopian “locked room” world set right here in southeastern Minnesota.
  • Erica Ruth Neubauer: Shared insights into her brilliant 1920s historical sleuth mysteries.
  • Shannon Baker: Charmed the audience with tales of her Kate Fox mystery series set in the rugged Nebraska Sandhills.

​From historical crime to modern-day psychological thrills, it was a fantastic masterclass in storytelling and the craft of suspense.

​ A Huge Community Thank You

​Events like this don’t just happen—they take a village of passionate book lovers! A massive thank you to:

  • Brie Taralson of Lykke Books for organizing and hosting this wonderful literary escape.
  • Tamara Quinn Klawitter for doing a fantastic job moderating the panel discussion and keeping the conversation lively.
  • ​All the wonderful authors and readers who showed up to support local arts and independent business!
A trio of award-winning mystery and thriller authors brought thrills and inspiration to New Ulm’s Lykke Books this week. Read the highlights from the “Women of Mystery Tour” panel!

Just Published: “The Long Walk for Clarity” by Amy Zents

I’m so incredibly proud to share this story about my amazing friend, Ann Vote — a true powerhouse and one of the most inspiring motivational speakers I know! ✨
Ann took on the ultimate challenge: a full 12-hour uninterrupted walk (over 50K steps and 21+ miles!) inspired by Colin O’Brady’s book. No phone distractions, just her, nature, and the quest for clarity on the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail. She pushed through foot pain, emotional breakthroughs, and heavy “just-in-case” baggage — literally and figuratively — and came out the other side with powerful insights for her business and life.
From soaking her feet in icy lake water to realizing she’s now comfortable in her own company, Ann’s journey is proof that stepping away (literally!) can lead to incredible growth and focus.
She is absolutely incredible. If you’re seeking clarity in your own life or business, her story will light a fire under you! 
 Read the full article here: https://www.nujournal.com/news/local-news/2026/05/13/the-long-walk-for-clarity/
Who else is ready to lace up their shoes and find their own clarity? Drop a ❤️ or tag a friend who needs this inspiration!
#AnnVote #12HourWalk #MotivationalSpeaker #FindClarity #MindsetShift #NewUlm #Inspiration #WalkForClarity #PowerfulWomen #NeverQuit