It was the launch of her second book last night at the Portage Regional Library, and the turnout was once again fantastic. Author Terrie Todd Maggie's War, and says the launch happened at a significant time of the year.

"It's about exactly a year ago that we were here at the library launching The Silver Suitcase," she explains. "I didn't know at that time if it would be my one and only book or not. But it has done very well, and the publishers were pleased to offer me a contract to sell Maggie's War as well."

Todd's new title is about a war widow who's relieved that her husband isn't coming home. An old friend comes back into her life and they both rescue a teenager and her newborn child. Todd says their lives intertwine together and grow as they face challenges and tragedies.

The book's not a sequel to the first, but does involve an obscure character from The Silver Suitcase who becomes the leading character in this new work. The lead character from the first book does play a small role in this one. Todd says there's some continuity between the two books, but it's not necessary to have read the first to enjoy this new one.

Todd's book is available in paperback, CD sets and MP3 discs, as well as Amazon's e-book version. She says another book's coming out in August entitled Bleak Landing and takes place in the same era. Todd says all of her books are set in Manitoba, with Winnipeg highlighting the stories as well as some fictional towns. Little tidbits of history she learned through her research are also involved in the stories.

Todd adds she appreciates the support for her work from all of the people in Portage and surrounding area.