Introduction
Timothy Michael Hurst ("I," "me," or "my") operates timothymichaelhurst.com. This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit my website or subscribe to The Treeward Trail newsletter.
I'm committed to transparency and treating your information with the same respect and care I bring to my writing. This policy is written in plain language because I believe you deserve to understand exactly what happens with your data.
Information I Collect
Information You Provide Directly
When you sign up for free sample chapters or join The Treeward Trail newsletter, I collect:
- Email address (required)
- First name (optional)
This information is collected through forms powered by MailerLite, my email service provider.
Information Collected Automatically
When you visit my website, certain information may be collected automatically:
- Website usage data through Google Analytics (pages viewed, time spent, referring websites, device type, general location)
- Technical information such as browser type, IP address, and operating system
- Cookies placed by WordPress, plugins, and third-party services to improve site functionality
How I Use Your Information
I use the information I collect to:
- Deliver your free sample chapters through BookFunnel
- Send you The Treeward Trail newsletter with series updates, highlights from The Daily Breadcrumb, and exclusive content
- Improve your website experience by understanding how visitors use the site
- Respond to your questions or comments if you contact me directly
I will never sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for their marketing purposes.
Third-Party Services
To operate this website and deliver content to you, I use the following third-party services:
MailerLite (Email Service Provider)
- Purpose: Manage newsletter subscriptions and send emails
- Data shared: Email address, first name (if provided)
- Privacy Policy: https://www.mailerlite.com/legal/privacy-policy
BookFunnel (File Delivery)
- Purpose: Deliver free sample chapters and bonus content
- Data shared: Email address (for download link delivery)
- Privacy Policy: https://bookfunnel.com/privacy/
Books2Read (Universal Book Links)
- Purpose: Provide convenient links to purchase my books at your preferred retailer
- Data shared: May track clicks through their service
- Privacy Policy: https://books2read.com/privacy
Google Analytics
- Purpose: Understand website traffic and improve user experience
- Data collected: Anonymous usage data, device information, general location
- Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy
GoDaddy (Web Hosting)
- Purpose: Host this website
- Data shared: Standard server logs (IP addresses, browser information)
- Privacy Policy: https://www.godaddy.com/legal/agreements/privacy-policy
Cookies
This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience. Cookies are small text files stored on your device that help the website remember your preferences and understand how you use the site.
Types of cookies used:
- Essential cookies: Necessary for the website to function properly
- Analytics cookies: Help me understand website traffic through Google Analytics
- Functionality cookies: Remember your preferences and settings
You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences. However, disabling cookies may affect some website functionality.
Data Security
I take reasonable measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse. Your data is stored securely through reputable third-party services (MailerLite, BookFunnel) that implement industry-standard security practices.
However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. While I strive to protect your information, I cannot guarantee absolute security.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Unsubscribe from The Treeward Trail newsletter at any time using the unsubscribe link in every email
- Request access to the personal information I hold about you
- Request deletion of your personal information from my records
- Correct inaccurate information I may have about you
To exercise these rights, please contact me at tim@timothymichaelhurst.com.
Children's Privacy
This website is not directed to children under the age of 13. I do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided personal information to me, please contact me at tim@timothymichaelhurst.com, and I will delete such information from my records.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
I may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in my practices or legal requirements. When I make changes, I will:
- Update the "Last Updated" date at the top of this page
- Notify subscribers via The Treeward Trail newsletter if the changes are significant
I encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically.
Contact Me
If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how I handle your personal information, please contact me:
Email: tim@timothymichaelhurst.com
Website: timothymichaelhurst.com
Legal Compliance
This Privacy Policy is designed to comply with:
- CAN-SPAM Act (United States)
- California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (European Union)
Even if you're not located in a jurisdiction covered by these laws, I extend the same privacy protections to all visitors and subscribers.