So, I have some exciting news to share!

My short screenplay, Rosie’s Diner, has been named a Quarterfinalist in the 2026 Outstanding Screenplays Shorts Competition.

For those who mainly know me through CiCi’s western romances or my Cheryl Yeko romantic suspense novels, screenwriting is another branch of my writing career. I love writing books and plan to continue doing so, but I’m also enjoying learning how to tell stories for the screen.

Since this website is where I share news about my CiCi Cordelia books, Cheryl Yeko books, and other writing projects, I wanted to celebrate Rosie’s achievement here.

Rosie’s Diner began as a short story I wrote several years ago for an anthology project that never came together. The story stayed tucked away until I realized its diner setting, unusual characters, rising suspense, and slightly haunted jukebox could make a fun short film.

The screenplay takes place over the course of one snowy night at a roadside diner. Mandy, one of the waitresses, is still grieving the loss of a regular customer named George, whose favorite songs have an odd habit of playing on the jukebox at just the right moment.

Meanwhile, James, the mechanic from the neighboring truck stop, is not quite who he appears to be. When an undercover drug operation goes wrong, Mandy and everyone else inside the diner are caught in a dangerous standoff.

The story combines suspense, romance, humor, quirky diner regulars, and a touch of supernatural mystery.

Being named a Quarterfinalist means Rosie’s Diner made it through the first judging round and will now be considered for the semifinals. There are still several rounds ahead, but I’m thrilled that Rosie has come this far!