Local Writer to Have First Novel Published This Summer

Pre-order is available now.

(Greendale, Ind.) - Greendale resident R.H. Nicholson will have his first novel published this summer. 

Nicholson taught writing for forty years at the high school and college level. Since retiring, he has turned his focus to his own writing projects, with several pieces of short fiction and poetry published. 

His novel Justice House Shadows is projected to release this July or August and is currently available for pre-order for $10 (plus shipping) at https://mainstreetragbookstore.com/product/justice-house-shadows-r-h-nicholson/

 "My lifelong dream is coming true this summer when my novel Justice House Shadows will be published by Main Street Rag Publications. It's difficult to explain how long and winding and difficult this journey has been. In today's market just landing a publisher is like finding a needle in a proverbial haystack, so this launch is unlikely and so sweet," said Nicholson.

"Justice House Shadows is a lush and evocative look at Betty Brogan, the last Southern belle, told in vivid details that immerse a reader in the world of her story. It is clear R.H. Nicholson enjoys delving deep into the descriptions of this world and its people, bringing it all to life as Betty and the other exquisitely drawn characters dance through the pages," said Maria Steinmetz, author of The Faerie Ring.

In other news, last month, Nicholson had his play The King & Queen of Foggy Flats selected as the 2025 winner in the Chickasaw Writers Project. The show will be staged June 25-28, 2026, with Hannah Rhodes directing. 

Set in small-town Indiana in 1890, The King & Queen of Foggy Flats tells the story of newcomers who bring their high-falutin’ ways to a small country town. At first they are met with distrust, but the way they care for their neighbors - including teaching the boy next door to fence - gradually wins friendship and, eventually, admiration. But who are these mysterious new neighbors?

Nicholson’s play is the third winner in the CCT contest, which is open to playwrights across the country.