Hensler publishes first book
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
DENA HENSLER, of Fort Fairfield, displays her first published novel, “Crossroads.” The Presque Isle native has had several other shorter works published over the years, but this is her first full-length book.
By Kathy McCarty
FORT FAIRFIELD — Dena Hensler, a native of Presque Isle who now resides in Fort Fairfield, has published her first book, “Crossroads.”
“‘Crossroads’ is a work of fiction. The genre is that of a romantic reconnection by the main character, Jessica Edwards, as she leaves a lucrative career in Portland and returns to her home town of Serenity, Maine, where she converts her deceased grandmother’s farmhouse into an inn,” explained Hensler.
Hensler said interpersonal relationships are a main area of focus, including an unexpected encounter with her former high school beau.
“In addition, previous acquaintances are renewed at a 20th class reunion and the value of present-day, established friendships are also explored,” she said.
The setting for the novel is northern Maine, circa 1990s, with each character establishing their own unique personality traits.
“The story provides a wholesome backdrop with a hint of intrigue for the reader to become involved in the plot, along with the distinct attributes particular to Aroostook County,” said Hensler.
Writing has been a passion of Hensler’s for decades, beginning as a child.
“I started keeping a journal when my parents bought me a diary at the age of 10. I wrote for school newspapers and the yearbook. I graduated from Presque Isle High School in 1971 and went to work for Dana Connors, writing his speeches,” said Hensler.
From there, Hensler made the move to Bangor, working for Sawyer waste paper, before returning to Presque Isle to work as the ad manager for the Maine Potato News. She now works for at a local doctor’s office.
“I like to write. I began writing this book in 1991. I had to make a few revisions over the years, to keep up with modern technology. I finally decided to have it published over the past year, finally taking delivery of ‘Crossroads’ on July 23,” said Hensler. “A classmate of mine, Charlie Cormier of Our Main Street, found one of our classmates who works for a publishing company in Massachusetts. That’s who printed my book, D.S.G. Graphics. Our Maine Street LLC is the publisher,” continued Hensler.
Hensler said it’s been quite a process, turning her thoughts into a published work.
“I went from handwriting, to typing and finally computer. It’s tough to find someone to print affordably. They did a nice job,” said Hensler.
The purpose of publishing “Crossroads” was not for money, said the author.
“I didn’t do it for the purpose of selling it, although I have sold a few through word of mouth. I just wanted to have the finished product in hand — see my work bound, not just a bunch of loose pages scattered about. I mostly wanted to see it in print, with a cover,” explained Hensler.
Hensler said writing comes naturally. She credits her father, Edward Blanchard, for encouraging her to get published.
“He’s also an author and after he got his first book published, he suggested I do the same,” she said. “We’ve both been published in Our Maine Street,” she said.
This was Hensler’s first published work but it may not be her last.
“I do have other items I’m working on, in my spare time,” said Hensler. “I’m also working with the Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library to do something with my book there in the near future.”
“Crossroads” is available for purchase locally at Merchants on the Corner on Main Street in Presque Isle. Copies are also available by calling Hensler at 473-7585 or e-mailing dhensler53@yahoo.com.