Delaware writer to host book launch party Oct. 15

Lee Ann Walling, a former Delaware journalist who served as a top aide to Gov. Ruth Ann Minner and State Treasurer Jack Markell, announced the release of her first novel, “The Salt and Light Express.”

Walling will host a free launch party from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 15, at Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach.

The novel centers on Chris, an adventurous older woman who heads west in a small RV after the death of her long-time partner, Sally. Her original mission was to spread Sally’s ashes at Bryce Canyon, but detours and people along the way help her heal, confront her flagging faith, and find love and purpose again..

Walling spent 10 years reporting at the Delaware State News and a brief stint at the News Journal before running Ruth Ann Minner’s campaign for lieutenant governor in 1992. She also served as executive assistant to John Carney, then secretary of finance, and as deputy treasurer for Jack Markell. From 2001 until 2007, she was senior advisor to Gov. Minner and developed her Livable Delaware land-use agenda. She retired from state government in 2013 as chief of planning at the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

“I wrote hundreds of news stories, as well as speeches and strategic plans, but I always wanted to write a novel,” said Walling says. She received her master of fine arts in creative writing from Drexel University in 2024. “This is an inspirational and heartfelt tale about one older person’s search for authenticity, belonging, and love after tragedy.”

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