First anniversary of Decision or Destiny

This week is the first anniversary of my first book. Thanks to all who purchased it on Amazon.com, and locally at the Holly Shoppe and Book Finders Bookstore in Stevens Point, WI. Check my Facebook page for eBook specials. A free download will be offered on October 27 and 28 at Amazon.com..

Here's what readers are saying about Decision or Destiny

Loved this book! Written with passion and undeniable charm and wit. I could hardly put it down.Darlene wove a story that transported you on a journey that swept through decades of the characters lives seamlessly while relating the events in Dianna's life to her granddaughter, Noel. The story telling approach, using the granddaughter was very touching and even brilliant as it brought all the characters to life immediately.
Judy Danczyk and Ken, author of Grandpa's Farm.


Decision or Destiny is a warm story of life and love. Throughout this engaging tale, this reader found herself drawn to compare it with her own life and wondering if there is a fine line between decisions made and one's destiny...or if life is based on all decisions made.
Faye Harleben, poet and author.


Decision or Destiny, a new book book out by local author Darlene Biese Schultz is a real page turner. It's a heartwarming story about a small town girl who leaves home, experiences many difficulties and finally returns to fine true love with her high school sweetheart.
Cliff Leary, poet and author of three books.

Shared with cancer support group

The beginning of August,I spoke to the "Living With Cancer Support Group" that I was part of in 2000. I shared my cancer experience and read a few passages from my book where Dianna is dealing with the news about having cancer. I realize how fortunate and grateful I am to be in good health.

Quote from Chapter 12

"Maybe it was maturity or being in my fifties, or just simply finding love again," I said to Noel. "Yes I found him again and went after him like today was all that mattered. Our life together is real because I decided to make my own destiny - not wait for it to happen as I did most of my life." From Chapter 12, Desision or Destiny

Book Cover

The cover of Decision or Destiny is the covered bridge at the Chapel in the Woods at the Red Mill in Waupaca, WI. My husband Dave and I will be celebrating our 16th Anniversary on May 31. "Today I will marry my best friend; the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love...More perfect than I had planned, my wedding day brought me full circle..I was finally home! Clear blue Wisconsin skies and warming sunshine highlighted the freshly opened pink and white blossoms as we walked down the winding path to the covered bridge...to the Chapel in the Woods." Chapter 12, Decision or Destiny

What is considered good drama? Is it something that entertains us? Is it good even when the bad guy goes unpunished? What about the good guy - does he get noticed or rewarded? My favorite high school English teacher stressed that a book, play or movie is considered good ( worthwhile drama) if the bad are punished and the good rewarded! Do most stories today really end that way? What if the criminal goes free or disappears and lives a life of luxury and appears happy? That is the question - what is happy or good? Is it only shown on the outside or described in the characters actions? These are questions to ponder as I write book two - and fictionalize an ending. Shall I create this universal perception that the bad guy is always punished and the good guy rewarded?