Samantha March's Blog, page 10
May 13, 2014
Preparing for BookBuzz NYC!
Last year I participated in BookBuzz Toronto, and if you couldn’t tell by my crazy excited posts leading up to, during and after the event, it was an incredible highlight for me. So imagine my excitement that in 16 days I will be flying out to the Big Apple for BookBuzz NYC! It’s truly amazing to be able to make it to these events, and such an experience to be surrounded by fellow authors that I admire, that I work with, that I communicate with virtually on nearly a daily basis. The lineup of authors look utterly fantastic, and I’m so thrilled to be able to say hello to some familiar faces and meet a few authors for the first time. This trip is a little different as my husband will be accompanying me, and we are making a little mini-vacation out of it. We’re both pretty stoked to go to a Yankees game Friday night, as neither of us have been to the stadium and we got a pretty good price on tickets.
So be prepared for some crazy posts, photos, and fangirl moments surrounding this event. And if you’re in the NYC area on May 29 – you must stop by! Our signature drink is yummy and there will be tons of great books at a discounted price and some up for grabs as well. RSVP today!
On Thursday May 29th , 2014, please come join us for a “Mix and Mingle” at The Galway Pub at 7 E 36th Street, NYC (between 5th and Madison), from 7pm to 9pm.
Enjoy a FREE Pink Stiletto signature drink, delicious snacks, and incredible bargains on signed books, all while chatting with some of the hottest names in women’s fiction! Please RSVP to bookbuzz2013@gmail.com to reserve your space!
Come on out and meet amazing authors:
Francine LaSala
*
Samantha Stroh Bailey
*Meredith Schorr
*
Holly Peterson
*
Cat Lavoie
*
Lydia Laceby
*
Chantel Guertin
*
Samantha March
*
Glynis Astie
*
Sheryn MacMunn
*
Lynn Marie Hulsman
*
k.c. wilder
*
Marissa Stapley
*
Heather Wardell
*
Deborah Schwartz
GIVEAWAYS!
Come on out to BookBuzz 2014 and enter to win a Kobo e-reader, generously donated byKobo Writing Life!
Enter to win signed paperbacks by author Brenda Janowitz! Brenda will be mingling at BookBuzz 2014 and is giving away 3 autographed copies each of RECIPE FOR A HAPPY LIFEAND JACK WITH A TWIST! She will also be giving away 2 e-copies each of SCOT ON THE ROCKSand her latest novel, THE LONELY HEARTS CLUB!
Enter to win signed paperbacks by author Jamie Brenner! Jamie will be at BookBuzz 2014, giving away one autographed copy each of GIN LOVERS and her latest release, RUIN ME!
Melissa Amster from Chick Lit Central will be hanging out at BookBuzz 2014, and she’s giving away a hardcover copy of HIDDEN by Catherine McKenzie!
Lynn Messina will also be at BookBuzz 2014, and you can enter to win a signed paperback ofTHE GIRLS’ GUIDE TO DATING ZOMBIES!
Ariella Papa is giving away 2 signed paperbacks of her latest novel, A SEMESTER ABROAD, at BookBuzz 2014!
PLUS – the incomparable Julie Valerie from Julie Valerie’s Book Blog joins us again!
Website: http://bookbuzz2013.wordpress.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/776317929067293/
May 5, 2014
#ChickLitMay: $0.99 eBook Sale to Celebrate International Chick Lit Month!
May is finally here! The weather’s warming up, your cute new bathing suit’s all ready to go, and you’ve got the kitchen stocked with fixins for your favorite fruity cocktails. The only thing missing is the perfect book to read while you’re soaking up some Vitamin D at the beach or pool. Good thing May is also International Chick Lit Month! To celebrate, some of the genre’s funniest and most talented authors are offering their lighthearted, romantic reads for $0.99 each! So, load up your eReader and slather on the sunscreen, because your new book boyfriends are waiting for you under the umbrella . . .
Be sure to check out the Pinterest board where all of the books are featured:
http://www.pinterest.com/opheliawrites/99centchicklit/
BOOKS ON SALE:
A Heat of the Moment Thing by Maggie Le Page
http://www.amazon.com/Heat-Moment-Thing-Maggie-Page-ebook/dp/B00BUCJV70
A Questionable Friendship by Samantha March
http://www.amazon.com/Questionable-Friendship-Samantha-March-ebook/dp/B00II9EDR6
Another Saturday Night and I Ain’t Got No Body by Jennie Marts
http://www.amazon.com/Another-Saturday-Night-Turners-Novel-ebook/dp/B00AQPJ924
Blogger Girl by Meredith Schorr
http://www.amazon.com/Blogger-Girl-Meredith-Schorr-ebook/dp/B00EDTLDSW
Breaking the Rules by Cat Lavoie
http://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Rules-Cat-Lavoie-ebook/dp/B008UZYPLW
Dangled Carat by Hilary Grossman
http://www.amazon.com/Dangled-Carat-Hilary-Grossman-ebook/dp/B00F55HITQ
Divine Moves by Ellyn Oaksmith
http://www.amazon.com/Divine-Moves-Ellyn-Oaksmith-ebook/dp/B00H1ZC8UW
Exactly Where They’d Fall by Laura Rae Amos
http://www.amazon.com/Exactly-Where-Theyd-Fall-Laura-ebook/dp/B008OWGPI2
For the Love of Cupcakes by Anita Kushwaha
http://www.amazon.com/Love-Cupcakes-Anita-Kushwaha-ebook/dp/B00DW7WGTG
French Twist by Glynis Astie
http://www.amazon.com/French-Twist-Glynis-Astie-ebook/dp/B00EUF203Q
Good Intentions by Kathryn Biel
http://www.amazon.com/Good-Intentions-Kathryn-R-Biel-ebook/dp/B00D4KMJ8O
Hard Hats and Doormats by Laura Chapman
http://www.amazon.com/Hard-Hats-Doormats-Laura-Chapman-ebook/dp/B00H7OME88
Here, Home, Hope by Kaira Rouda
http://www.amazon.com/Here-Home-Hope-Womens-Fiction-ebook/dp/B004YKTEHC
In Need of Therapy by Tracie Banister
http://www.amazon.com/In-Need-of-Therapy-ebook/dp/B008N6Z36Y
Let’s Be Frank by Brea Brown
http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Be-Frank-Brea-Brown-ebook/dp/B00IE7LW12
Lila’s Choice by Laura Brown
http://www.amazon.com/Lilas-Choice-Laura-Brown-ebook/dp/B00IA6IKV2
Mail-Order Groom by Cindy Flores Martinez
http://www.amazon.com/Mail-Order-Groom-Cindy-Flores-Martinez-ebook/dp/B00IBD5THC
Mr Right and Other Mongrels by Monique McDonell
http://www.amazon.com/Right-Other-Mongrels-Monique-McDonell-ebook/dp/B0086L8NBS
Open My Eyes by Jennifer Collin
http://www.amazon.com/Open-My-Eyes-Jennifer-Collin-ebook/dp/B00JJNWIV8
Reframing Emma by Missy Kierstead
http://www.amazon.com/Reframing-Emma-Missy-Kierstead-ebook/dp/B00J0B7V7K
Speaking of Love by Ophelia London
http://www.amazon.com/Speaking-Love-Perfect-Kisses-Entangled-ebook/dp/B00BFQDFZA
Tear Stained Beaches by Courtney Giardina
http://www.amazon.com/Tear-Stained-Beaches-Courtney-Giardina-ebook/dp/B00BIP6CQW
The Accidental Prophetess by Michelle Lam
http://www.amazon.com/Accidental-Prophetess-Michelle-Lam-ebook/dp/B00IMRDZJG
The Bad Girls’ Club by Kathryn O’Halloran
http://www.amazon.com/Bad-Girls-Club-Kathryn-OHalloran-ebook/dp/B00ASACHNU
When Girlfriends Collection (Books 1-3) by Savannah Page
http://www.amazon.com/When-Girlfriends-Collection-Books-1-3-ebook/dp/B00D3LX456
Whiskey and Gumdrops by Jean Oram
http://www.amazon.com/Whiskey-Gumdrops-Blueberry-Springs-Contemporary-ebook/dp/B00GCDODSE
April 30, 2014
CLP Blog Tours Interview and Excerpt: Conditional Love by Cathy Bramley
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I’d been trying to write for a year or so, but didn’t think I had much skill. Then last March 2013, I went on a course run by an organization called The Writer’s Workshop in the UK. It was an online course called ‘Self-Editing’ for people who had already completed a novel. The feedback I got from the course tutors was so positive that it gave me the confidence I needed to believe in myself and self-publish my first novel Conditional Love
How do you choose a genre to write in, or does it choose you?
Ha! Good question! I write commercial women’s fiction. My books are feel-good, light-hearted romance novels. Conditional Love is a romantic comedy. I think the genre chose me. I always see the funny side in a situation and can’t resist putting humour into my writing!
Why was Conditional Love a book you wanted to write?
Conditional Love is about a girl who inherits a house and has grand plans to create her dream home. My husband and I had just finished building our own dream home at the time and I really enjoyed the process. Even though what happens in Conditional Love is nothing like our own story, I was keen to draw on my experience with architects and planning permission, etc in novel form.
I love your cover! Can you tell us who created it and how much input you had?
Thank you, Samantha, I must admit, I’m very proud of the cover. I used a fantastic company called Design For Writers, who specialize in book covers and websites for authors. I was recommended them by fellow author, Annabel Scott. When I engaged them, I thought all I would have to do is give them a vague idea of covers and style and they would do the rest. But I had to complete and amazingly thorough thirty-two point questionnaire! It really made me think about what I wanted and I’ve been thrilled with the result.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
The first sentence in every chapter. Once I’ve got that down, the rest usually follows. But setting the scene in that first moment can sometimes take me a while.
What are your favorite genres to read?
I do read a lot of chick lit, but I love thrillers too!
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
I want them to cheer when Sophie starts making her own decisions and taking control of her life. I want readers to laugh and cry and enjoy my story of love in all its different guises.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
Not only is it essential to have an active social media profile, but it’s fun too. One of my favourite things about being an author is connecting with readers, bloggers and other authors.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
To write. Right now. Don’t wait for the right time in your life because it will probably never come. And write often. It gets easier with practice.
**Excerpt**
In the centre of the desk, lay an open file. I shuffled forward to the edge of my seat and managed to read my own name at the top of the page. I inched closer still, squinting to read more.
‘And you are?’
The deep voice made me jump so much that I panicked, slid off the chair and down onto one knee, thus greeting the tall, thin man with dark hair, glasses and a bushy beard in some sort of weird marriage proposal stance.
I scrambled up off the floor, mortified, and sat back down. ‘Nothing! Just waiting for Mr Whelan.’
His lips twitched and he gave his beard a scratch.
‘I’m Thomas Whelan.’ He extended a hand towards me. ‘And you are?’
‘Oh! Sophie Stone.’ I shook his hand and pulled up the collar of my coat to hide my glowing cheeks.
‘Ah yes,’ he said settling himself at his desk. He glanced at the file that I’d had been trying to read. ‘You’ve come about your aunt’s will.’
I processed this new information, hitherto unaware I had an aunt. Alive or dead.
‘My aunt?’
Mr Whelan blinked furiously, referred back to the manila file and adjusted his glasses.
‘My apologies, Miss Stone, your great aunt.’
Well that was that then. She had to be one of my father’s relations. There were definitely no great aunts in Mum’s family. There was no one at all in her family. I sighed. I had been hoping… well, I wasn’t sure exactly what I’d been hoping. Maybe that she was an old lady I’d done a good deed for once when I was in the Brownies or something. Although, I couldn’t think what I’d done to warrant a mention in anybody’s will.
But any tenuous link would be better than being a relative of Terry Stone’s. Still, I’d better be absolutely sure.
‘Would you mind just running me through the family tree?’
‘Of course not,’ said Mr Whelan, pushing his chair back and standing up abruptly. ‘But first, have you brought your passport?’
I jumped to my feet too. ‘Why? Where are we going?’ I had been told on the phone to bring my passport when I arranged the appointment and the request had been troubling me ever since.
‘Only to the photocopier,’ he chuckled. ‘Need to verify you are who you say you are before we continue with the reading of the will.’
Thank heavens for small mercies! I had had visions of having to jump on a plane at a moment’s notice to take ownership of some mystery item.
Identity checks complete, we resumed our positions either side of the desk. The solicitor took off his wristwatch, set it to one side and then, elbows on the desk, clasped his hands together and made a steeple with his forefingers, resting his long nose on the tip.
‘This office holds the last will and testament of Mrs Jane Kennedy. She was Terence Stone’s maternal aunt. Your great aunt.’
I stared at him, mesmerised by the end of his nose which was protruding over his fingers.
I should stop him from going any further. There was no point in hearing what he had to say. My father had been absent for all of my thirty- two years. Mum and I had managed perfectly well without his or his family’s help, thank you very much and I knew instinctively that she would resent any intervention at this stage in the game. Besides, why would the old dear leave anything to me? It didn’t make sense, we’d never even met.
‘Long and tedious documents, wills.’
My eyes must have glazed over for a moment. I shook myself and Mr Whelan’s eyes twinkled at me.
‘There’s been a misunderstanding,’ I said, scooping up my bag as I stood. ‘My mother is estranged from her ex-husband. I’ve never met Jane Kennedy; in fact, I’ve never met my father.’
‘I’m aware of all that,’ he said, not unkindly. ‘However, it falls to me to ensure that you are fully informed as to your inheritance. Please sit.’ He flapped a hand at the empty chair. ‘Would you like me to read the whole thing or cut to the chase?’
I blinked my green eyes at him. Was he allowed to say things like that? I sat back down obediently.
‘The main bits, please.’
‘Righto.’ Mr Whelan extracted a document and a small sealed envelope from the file. He pushed his glasses up his nose and cleared his throat. I held my breath.
‘Your great aunt Jane has bequeathed the bulk of her estate to you. You, Miss Stone are the main beneficiary of her will.’
An estate! Visions of strolling through manicured gardens like someone out of Pride and Predjudice, against a backdrop of a Chatsworth-style mansion, on Marc’s arm, were somewhat dimmed with Mr Whelan’s next sentence.
‘There’s a bungalow in Woodby and several thousand pounds. We haven’t finalised the amount yet.’
Woodby? That was a village in the sticks somewhere north of Nottingham. A bungalow and some money. I repeated the words in my head. That was a house and some actual money-in-the-bank type dosh.
My chest had been getting tighter and tighter with lack of oxygen and now I was all panicky. Breathe, Sophie, in out, in out. I probably looked like I was in labour: face all red, and puffing like Ivor the engine.
A house. My great aunt had given me a house. Of my own. And that meant a home. How long had I been dreaming of my own home? Only all my life, that was how long.
Mr Whelan’s lips were moving. He was still speaking and I hadn’t been listening. He was holding an envelope out to me and I took it automatically.
‘As I say, there is a condition to the inheritance, but I think it would be better if you read Mrs Kennedy’s letter yourself. I’ll leave you in private for a moment. Can I get you some coffee?’
‘Tea please, two sugars.’
Condition? I wasn’t sure I could take any more surprises. Life was so much gentler without them. My heart rate was already registering at least a seven on the Richter scale.
‘Actually, make it three!’
Author Bio:
Cathy Bramley is a British author of women’s feel-good fiction. Conditional Love, a romantic comedy is her debut novel. Her new title, Ivy Lane is being serialized as four ebooks this year and will be released as a paperback in 2015.
Cathy has spent most of her working career in the crazy world of marketing. After graduating from University in Nottingham, she plunged herself into corporate world, working on high-powered projects such as testing the firing range of SuperSoaker water guns and perfecting the weeing action of Tiny Tears. In 1995 she set up her own marketing agency, Apples & Pears Marketing, but now most of her marketing activities involve promoting her books.
She lives in an idyllic Nottinghamshire village with her husband, two daughters and a dog called Pearl.
Connect with Cathy!
Twitter @cathybramley
Blog www.cathybramleyauthor.com
Facebook www.facebook.com/CathyBramleyAuthor
Buy the Book!
April 29, 2014
CLP Blog Tours Interview and Excerpt: Precious Words by Leigh Fleming
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I’m sure every writer says “I’ve always wanted to write a book” and that’s true for me as well. My first attempt at writing a book was in sixth grade when I completed the first chapter of novel, but was quickly distracted by something else. For years I’ve said I wanted to write a book and finally at the age of fifty I began writing. I guess I knew writing was for me when my editor squelched my insecurities and lacking confidence by telling me that I was very creative and to keep writing. Any doubts I had up to that point made me more determined to express my thoughts through writing while learning all I could about the craft.
Why was Precious Words a book you wanted to write?
I was actually working on my great, great grandmother’s story when one morning I awoke from a very vivid dream, as realistic as if I were watching a movie, about a top ranked tennis player who has everything going for him. He is successful, talented, wealthy, handsome, has millions of adoring fans and yet, he is lonely. He meets a beautiful American woman and falls in love, making his life complete, but he soon discovers someone wants to bring his success and happiness to an end. That was how I was inspired to write Precious Words. I knew as soon as I got out of bed that this would be the book I would write.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Patience. I’m the type of writer who plots inside my head, so when I sit down to write, I know what is coming. Sometimes I find myself rushing through the narrative or the dialogue to get to the climax of that particular scene. I wrote Precious Words chronologically-writing from beginning to end—and often brushed over some important elements to the story. Needless to say, there were several rewrites. With the novel I’m currently writing, I’ve allowed myself to write the story in scenes. So, if one day I’m in the mood to write a love scene, I’ll write it. If another day I want to write something funny, I’ll do it. Again, since I know what is going to happen, I write what I feel inspired to write that day. Now, I’ve put all those scenes together and am just about finished filling in the little details that bind the story together. Probably the hardest part of the process is not knowing what is the best process for me.
What are your favorite genres to read?
I love romance, suspense, crime, mysteries, contemporary—you name it. It’s probably easier to ask what I don’t like. I don’t like fantasy or paranormal. Stories that are realistic, that could actually happen are what interest me most, and there must be a relationship. Seeing the connection between two main characters—no matter what the genre—is important to me. It humanizes the story.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
Mainly I hope that for a few hours they are transported out of their day-to-day lives and escape to an exciting world of love and intrigue. Nico and Emberly both had different reasons for not wanting to get involved with each other, but in the end, love conquered all. Isn’t that the best take away in any story?
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
It’s extremely important. Since most people rely on Facebook and Twitter and the internet in general for their news and connection to friends, it’s important for authors to have an online presence. Social media is a great networking tool which exposes authors to people they never could have reached otherwise.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
I’ve always said the best training tool for writers is to read. Reading the type of books you enjoy reading everyday will help you in your writing. Don’t give up when that inkling of doubt creeps in. You may have to rewrite several times, but keep at it in order to get the story the way you want it. Also, an experienced professional editor is critical to the writing process.
**Excerpt**
Annie reached for Emberly’s arm. “Oh, he’s too hot to resist. We’re getting his
autograph, and you’re coming with us.” Emberly felt herself being propelled
forward as Annie and Kate firmly tugged on her wrists. Embarrassed by her friends’
exuberance but refusing to make a scene, she decided to hide behind Annie and
Kate as they approached the table.
The four swarthy men were huddled at a round table tucked in the corner of the
pub, eating sandwiches and talking rapidly in Italian. Nico was sitting in the
corner facing the three girls, sipping what appeared to be lemonade. His head
jerked up as Annie boldly announced, “We’re sorry to bother you gentlemen, but
our friend here would like to get Nico’s autograph for her mother, who is probably
his biggest fan.”
Nico appeared amused at this unusual request and smiled at his companions.
“Sure. Which friend are you referring to?” His confused gaze fell on Annie and
Kate. The two girls quickly stepped apart and pulled Emberly forward despite her
resistance. She smiled timidly, mesmerized by Nico’s inky dark eyes and glowing
smile. Nico’s smile faded and he stared silently at Emberly. She watched his eyes
trail from her face to her long blond hair, which lay casually across one shoulder.
He seemed to be drinking her in as his gaze settled back on her face. It felt like an
eternity before he spoke. “Hello,” he said softly without taking his eyes off her.
Author Bio:
Leigh Fleming is the owner of the Scrapbook Cottage, a weekend retreat center for craft enthusiasts. She lives with her husband, Patrick, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, and is mom to adult children, Tom and Liza, and two beloved dogs, Lula Belle and Napoleon. Precious Words is her first novel.
Connect with Leigh!
www.facebook.com/leighhflemingauthor
https://twitter.com/leighhfleming1
Buy the Book!
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/precious-words-leigh-fleming/1117779161?ean=9781491713488
http://bookstore.iuniverse.com/Products/SKU-000679447/Precious-Words.aspx
April 21, 2014
Books in Bloom: 99 Cent Steals!
I am teaming up with a fabulous crew of authors to bring you #BooksInBloom! We are discounting select titles for just two days, so be sure to grab your copies for just 99 cents April 21 and April 22. The books, blurbs, and links are below. You’ll find some ready to tweet tweets at the end too, and please help us spread the word if you can. Happy Reading!
A Questionable Friendship – Samantha March
Brynne Ropert and Portland Dolish have been best friends since being paired as roommates in college. Seven years later they are now twenty-five, married, and living in Maine–– but the two women couldn’t be more different. Brynne finds fulfillment in her life as a wife, mother and owner of a small café and bookshop, but is struggling to expand her family. Portland is still coping with her mother’s death during her childhood, and her marriage is unraveling before her eyes. Portland envies her friend’s seemingly stable and easy life while Brynne doesn’t understand the growing distance between them and cannot begin to guess what secret Portland is hiding about her husband and crumbling marriage. While one woman feels shut out, the other enters into a web of lies to protect herself.
A Questionable Friendship explores what really makes someone a true friend, a support system, a sister. How much trust goes into a friendship and when is being a friend not enough? Brynne and Portland’s story will attempt to answer those questions, and show that happily ever after isn’t in the cards for everyone.
Zoey & The Moment of Zen – Cat Lavoie
When coffee shop owner Zoey Everwood takes her obsession with ex-boyfriend Braden too far, everyone—except Zoey—is convinced a bit of fun in the sun at the Moment of Zen Wellness Resort will help her get over him once and for all.
But Zoey’s relaxing vacation turns out to be anything but peaceful when she meets Shane Lawson, a resort guest who bears a striking resemblance to Braden. And things get even more complicated when the resort’s owner starts spilling secrets about Zoey’s aunt Nessa, the woman who raised her. Add a snarky Wellness Coordinator and Nate Holmes—Shane’s grumpy friend—to the mix, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect tropical storm.
When Zoey comes back home with a new husband instead of tacky souvenirs, she must convince everyone she hasn’t completely lost her mind. As Zoey and Shane struggle to keep the magic alive outside the resort, Zoey discovers that she isn’t the only one having trouble letting go of the past. And when Nate drops a bombshell that changes everything, Zoey must decide if the old saying is true—what happens at the Moment of Zen stays at the Moment of Zen.
Hard Hats and Doormats – Laura Chapman
Lexi Burke has always been a stickler for following rules and procedures. As a human resources manager for a leading Gulf Coast chemical company, it’s her job to make sure everyone else falls in line, too.
But after losing out on a big promotion–-because her boss sees her as too much of a yes-woman––Lexi adopts a new policy of following her heart instead of the fine print. And her heart knows what it wants: Jason Beaumont, a workplace crush who is off limits based on her previous protocol.
While navigating a new romance and interoffice politics, Lexi must find the confidence to stand on her own or face a lifetime of following someone else’s orders.
Who says nice girls have to finish last?
Becoming Mrs. Walsh – Jessica Gordon
Shoshana Thompson is 26 years old, miles from home, and engaged to Andrew Walsh, the last single Walsh brother of one of Washington, D.C.’s wealthiest families. Throughout her engagement she becomes enamored with the Walsh lifestyle.
Life in the fast lane comes to a screeching halt when Shoshana develops feelings for another man. When she discovers the feelings may not be one-sided, things are about to get a lot more complicated. This man is not only part of her fancy new world, he is also completely off-limits.
Smashwords Coupon Code: UK27F
The Right Design – Isabella Louise Anderson
Interior designer Carrie Newman could not have envisioned a more perfect life for herself. She had a great job doing what she loved, wonderful friends, and a close relationship with her sister and brother-in-law. Add in an amazing man who she’d hoped would soon become her husband, and her life was perfect. Until one devastating decision ruins her relationship and changes the course of her life.
Determined to make a new start, Carrie leaves Texas and heads to Palm Beach to pick up the pieces of her shattered and broken life. The last thing she expects is to find herself attracted to her first client at her new job—Brad Larson, who has proven himself time and time again to be cad.
But there’s something beneath the surface of Brad’s arrogant exterior that keeps her craving more of him—something almost sweet that Carrie can’t seem to resist.
Is Carrie ready to take another chance on romance? And will this new design of her life prove to be the right one…?
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-right-design-isabella-louise-anderson/1118887877?ean=2940149305407
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/the-right-design
When Girlfriends Collection – Savannah Page
For a limited time only, grab the first three novels in the When Girlfriends collection for only $.99! This digital boxed set includes: When Girlfriends Break Hearts,When Girlfriends Step Up, and When Girlfriends Make Choices.
WHEN GIRLFRIENDS BREAK HEARTS
Sophie Wharton doesn’t like losing control, especially of her life. She’s always been the girl who’s kept it together–the girl with a charming boyfriend, a lively social life, and plans to start her own bakery. Life is great for Sophie a few years out of college in Seattle…or so she thinks.
Then a series of events start to turn Sophie’s perfectly ordered world upside down.
After three years, her boyfriend suddenly decides to call it quits. Her close camaraderie of girlfriends is starting to fall apart. Secrets are exposed. And when she thinks things couldn’t get any worse, Sophie learns that one of her friends is fighting a devastating battle.
Now living with her best friend Claire, Sophie struggles with learning to forgive or forget those who break hearts, while trying to accept that there are some situations she cannot control. But is there still a light at the end of the tunnel? Can a girl find the “good” in the “bad”?
This is a heartfelt story about what happens when friendships take different paths and when life doesn’t exactly go according to plan.
WHEN GIRLFRIENDS STEP UP
Robin Sinclair is young, determined, and has a promising career at a small publishing house in Seattle. Even though she considers herself unlucky in love, Robin still dreams of eventually meeting Mr. Right and having a happily-ever-after kind of life. And at twenty-five, the world of opportunity is wide. But it’s been a difficult year filled with trials…and it’s only just begun.
While long-time friendships are finally on the mend, and things are starting to look up again, Robin is faced with her biggest challenge yet. She’s single and pregnant.
Uncertain now of her future and scared of being alone, Robin must re-examine her life and choices, and summon the courage to step up.
With the love and support of her best girlfriends from college, especially her best friend and roommate, Lara, Robin will learn that when the going gets tough, the best of friends become family. And, perhaps, with their encouragement, Robin can mature and gain the confidence needed to become a single mother. And, who knows about being unlucky in love. Things are suddenly getting interesting with Robin’s attractive co-worker, Bobby.
This is an endearing story about maturity and perseverance. It’s a story about friends coming together as family, about finding the strength within and around, and about writing your own happily-ever-after.
WHEN GIRLFRIENDS MAKE CHOICES
Lara Kearns has it all. She has her MBA, a successful career in advertising in Seattle, and she’s even living with her best friend and single mom, Robin. Reliable, dedicated, and eager, Lara is the resident go-to-girl, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Lara’s that girl who has everything going for her…everything, that is, except for true love. With the big 3-0 on its way and no man in sight, Lara wonders if she’ll always be married to her career, or her cat, and never find the One.
But then, when she least expects it, a handsome and suave executive at her firm, Paul Mackenzie, makes a pass at her. Hesitant at first about striking up an office romance, Lara eventually finds herself falling for her charming colleague. And the best part? Paul is falling in love with Lara, too!
What happens, though, when the man of your dreams loves you…and his wife?
Battling with what the head and the heart want, Lara finds herself in a precarious situation. Life is spiraling out of control, but with the support of her therapist and friends, Lara must make a choice. Is she really prepared to chase after love…at all costs?
This is a provocative story about struggling between right and wrong. About what you will or won’t do for true love.
Private Air – Billie Bates
When Sienna Harris joined the Australian Air Force as a flight attendant for the Prime Minister, she thought she’d hit the glam-job jackpot. But three years of weapons training, outback destinations, and a cheating fighter pilot fiancé, and she’s realized it’s not so fabulous after all. Time to embark on a new adventure, this time to the prestigious world of international VIP aviation.
Sienna and her best friend leave behind their small-town lives for a glitzy career flight attending on a Saudi prince’s private jet. Money, parties, designer clothes, and exotic locations fill the job description, while the sexy pilot, Ted, makes it hard for Sienna to obey the “no fraternizing” rule.
But even the most opulent of journeys can hit turbulence. Sienna’s boss, the appearance-obsessed chief stewardess, issues diuretics and Botox with the uniforms and catering orders, and the prince is a man who’s never told no. Underneath its lush appearance, could this desert oasis be more of a muddy puddle?
The Devil Wears Prada meets Pan Am in this fun frolic to the glamorous side of air travel, inspired by the author’s own experience as a VIP flight attendant in Saudi Arabia and Europe.
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April 17, 2014
Puppy Love: Six Months
My husband and I have been puppy parents for almost six months now, and we are continuing to have a blast with Aries, our Vizsla. We recently looked back at pictures of her, and it’s crazy to see how fast she grew from eight weeks to six months. I’ve shared the picture in this post – that’s crazy, right? One of the best parts has been learning her personality and picking up on her quirks. She runs to the fridge when we use the ice machine, and thinks ice cubes are treats. Cheap and easy! We like to take her on a short walk with us when we get the mail, and when she hears keys she runs right to the door now. She knows the sound of the garage door opening, and understands that means either mom or dad is home. When it’s me and her and she hears the door, she’ll stop whatever she is doing and run to the kitchen, pacing the floor with her tail wagging before my husband walks in the door and attacking him with love. He assures me she does the same with me 
Is being a puppy parent hard work? Oh my, yes! We’ve started taking Aries to daycare once or twice a week to help get her energy and enthusiasm out during the day. I work from home, but she has so much energy and loves being by my side that it would be impossible to get anything done without the aid of daycare. Once the spring time temperatures hit (and stay) and we move into summer, I think we can cut down on the daycare, because my husband and I enjoy being active – going to the river, hiking, walks – and we can bring her along now. It’s also easier to be outside with her and play in the yard once it’s not in the negatives and snowing! But for the next few weeks we have daycare planned and it helps give me a break during the day to work and ensures she’s not cooped up in a kennel all day long. We also experienced Aries getting sick for the first time last week, forcing me to cancel my work day and take her into the vet for shots and medicine. It was scary, but luckily nothing too serious and cleared up right away.
Having Aries has had such an impact on our lives, in a positive way. Before I get too sappy over my pup, I’ll just leave you with another picture. How can anyone resist that face?
April 8, 2014
CLP Blog Tours Interview and Excerpt: The New Ever After by Julie Farley
**Interview**
Can you describe The New Ever After in a tweet (140 characters or less)?
Heather’s strength is put to the ultimate test as she faces losing not only her best friend but her new happily ever after as well.
What are you currently reading?
I’m reading Looking for Alaska by John Green. His books are so raw and filled with emotion. I had The Fault In Our Stars on my kindle for a year before I read it. I was so scared to read about teenagers who were dying of cancer but I kept hearing great things about it. It lived up to the hype and made me a better person and a better writer.
Do you experience writers block? Any tips on overcoming it?
I do experience writer’s block and the only cure I’ve found is doing a monotonous task like ironing or even running. Somehow the monotony clears my mind and the ideas start coming.
I always try to stop writing at a point where I know what’s going to happen next. That way I have a good starting point when I have a minute to sit down and write again.
Worse than writer’s block for me though is being distracted by the internet. I am easily distracted and can write a sentence then go jump on a celebrity website. It’s such a waste of time but I can’t stop myself.
Where do you complete most of your writing? Any certain time of day that you prefer?
I write on my laptop in my office. After I finish teaching preschool, I come home and have a few hours before my four kids arrive home from school. That’s my best writing time! The house is quiet and I can play my music and get lost in my words.
Are you currently working on another novel?
I’m getting book three of The New Ever After Series ready to send to my editor. Book three focuses on Heather’s best friend, Jenny. I’m also almost done with my stand-alone novel Mapping Magic. I’ve been working on it on and off for more than three years. It’s a quirky little love story that takes place in Maine.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Just do it! There will always be excuses so push through them and sit down and write. My favorite creative writing teacher makes us start each class by writing for ten minutes using the prompt Right now. It’s a powerful way to clear your mind of distractions and get down to business…the business of writing.
**Excerpt**
“Your blood pressure is 140/85. That’s too high. I can’t let you leave the office. We’re going to admit you and prepare to deliver the babies,” said the doctor.
“What do you mean her blood pressure’s too high? Why is it high? The babies aren’t even due yet,” said Peter.
“It happens in many multiple pregnancies. It’s called preeclampsia. The babies are thirty-six weeks. With twins, that’s a safe time to deliver them.”
“But what about Heather? Is she in danger?”
“No. As long as we deliver them now she should be fine.”
“What do you mean deliver them now? If you wait an hour is she in danger?” asked Peter.
“Mr. Adamson, your wife will be fine. We will deliver the twins before she is in any danger. That’s why we’re going to admit her now and monitor her progress,” said the doctor.
Heather turned to Peter. “I’ll call my mom. She can stay with the other three kids. Will you call Jenny and ask her to pack me a bag of clothes and bring it to me?” she asked.
“Yeah, yes, I can do that. What should I tell her?” said Peter as he ran his hand through his hair about five times in a row.
“To bring me a bag of clothes,” said Heather for the second time.
“What kind of clothes? Pajamas? Jeans? What would you like?” asked Peter.
“Don’t worry. Jenny will know. Just call her!”
“Okay, yeah, I’ll do it now.”
The doctor interjected. “The nurse will come in and wheel you over to the hospital. You should have these babies in a few hours. I’ll be over shortly.”
Heather called her mom who was already at the house watching the kids. Peter walked out into the hall to make his phone calls.
3:03 Jenny: Just talked to Peter. He seems a little freaked. Are you ok?
3:04 Heather: I’m fine. Happy to get these guys out of here. Will you pack my robe and the new Target pjs that are on the couch in my room?
3:05 Jenny: No prob. Text with anything else. Xo
Peter walked back in with the nurse and the wheelchair. Heather waddled over to the chair and plopped her overgrown body down.
“Are you all set, Mrs. Adamson?” asked the nurse.
“I am more than ready to have these babies. Let’s go.”
“What can I get you, babe? Water? Will Jenny get the camera? Do you want something to eat?” Peter turned toward the nurse. “Can I stay with her or do I have to leave?”
“Dude, chill out. Don’t get all crazy on me. I am fine. I’ll tell you if I need anything. Right now, I need you to be calm.” Shit, if this is how he’s going to act I’m in trouble.
Peter ran his hands through his hair again. Even though it was the end of June, he was wearing one of his signature outfits that Heather had a hard time resisting even as she was being wheeled into the hospital—a white T-shirt, tight well-worn jeans and his black Doc Marten boots. The nurse kept stealing sideways glances at him. Heather was too excited to have the twins out of her stomach and into her arms to feel jealous.
Heather was wheeled to a private room and the revolving door of nurses and administrators gathered vitals and necessary information. The anesthesiologist arrived and asked her when she had last eaten. She’d had lunch before her doctor’s appointment.
“Okay. I’m going to give you a little concoction to clear everything out. It doesn’t taste good so drink it quickly, like a shot of tequila.”
Heather did as she was told, and the nurses and doctor left them alone. Within two minutes, she was nauseous and started throwing up. Peter leapt up from the chair next to her and pushed the button on the remote asking for help from the nurse.
“Yes? How can I help you?” asked the voice on the other end of the remote.
“My wife is throwing up! Help!”
Heather was too busy tossing her cookies to tell Peter to relax, but a nurse arrived thirty seconds later to tell him just that.
“Mr. Adamson, the doctor gave her a medicine to make her throw up so her stomach is empty in case we need to put a tube down her throat. Everything is normal. Mrs. Adamson is fine.”
The nurse helped her clean herself up and Heather reprimanded Peter.
“I am going to ask you to leave if you get crazy. I am fine. You need to help me.”
“I know. I’m sorry. I just don’t want anything to happen to you, and I’ve never done anything like this before.”
Heather knew fatherhood was new to him. He had gotten thrown into it faster than most. He was fabulous at helping her raise the older kids. But starting with babies was completely new to him, and she needed to keep that in mind.
Peter took Heather’s hand and started rubbing circles on her palm. She sat back and focused on the circles and waited to be taken to the operating room. If he acted up again, she would ask them to give him a sedative.
An hour later, Peter was sitting on a stool next to her head behind the big white sheet in the operating room. The anesthesia had taken effect and Heather couldn’t feel anything below her chest.
“I love you, babe. I can’t believe you are having my babies,” he said as one tear dropped down his cheek.
“I love you too. Thank you for calming yourself down.”
Heather had delivered her other three children naturally, so it felt strange to be having babies without pushing them out. But this was certainly faster than the eighteen-hour labor she endured with Henry. The doctor made an incision and pulled one twin out and then the next.
Emily Rose Adamson was born at 4:01 pm and was named for Heather’s grandma. George Henry Adamson was born one minute later at 4:02 pm. He was named for Peter’s grandfather and Heather’s first husband, Hank, who had died of a sudden heart attack a little more than two years earlier. Peter cried and snapped photos of the birth, inadvertently taking pictures of Heather’s insides that would soon become favorite family shots.
.
Author Bio:
Julie Farley is the author of Tripped Up Love and The New Ever After. She lives in Richmond, VA with her husband, four rarely quiet children and her 50 pound lap dog. Julie spends her days writing and teaching preschool. She chronicles her adventures on her blog atjuliefarley.com and is working on the next book in The New Ever After Series.
Connect with Julie!
facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/pages/Julie-Farley/281778325176054
twitter: juliefarley1
website: www.juliefarley.com
Buy the Book!
Amazon
April 7, 2014
CLP Blog Tours Interview and Excerpt: Pulled Beneath by Marni Mann
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I was in middle school and, although my passion for writing already existed, I was exploring different creative outlets: music, drawing, singing, dance, and sports. Several of those found a place in my life, but they didn’t produce the intensity of emotions that I felt when I was writing. I quickly learned that despite how hard I tried to busy my brain or body, I was usually focused on the story that I was crafting in my head.
You’ve written in a variety of genres. How do you choose a genre to write in, or does it choose you? Do you have a favorite?
For the most part, all the genres in the past have chosen me. Pulled Beneath (New Adult) is the first novel that I had a specific one in mind before I began writing. It’s become my favorite genre and that’s because it allows me to explore the levels of chemistry, intimacy, and hardship within an age that’s vital for character development.
Why was Pulled Beneath a book you wanted to write?
I wanted to create a character who people could relate to and place her in a situation that was so dark, so painful that her chances of recovering were slim. We all have our breaking points. When we’re there, we just want to know there’s hope…within our grasp, in the future, buried somewhere deep within. Pulled Beneath shows the spectrum of emotions, the sparkle of hope that shines from the most unexpected places, and the internal struggle when one is fighting against their heart.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Editing is always the hardest part. It’s such a tedious process because each word holds so much value. It’s not just when the story is cleaned up, it’s when the foreshadowing gets inserted, when the loops are connected, when the characters truly reveal their identities. I’m magnifying each syllable and making sure they have a beat.
What are your favorite genres to read?
Literary, Erotica, and New Adult.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
It’s always darkest before the dawn is a reoccurring theme in all my novels. I want readers to know they’re capable of finding that inner strength, that hope, that they’re able to recover from tragedy even if it feels impossible at the time.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
Social media is crucial. It’s a way to express yourself, to show the world your voice. Readers can also use the different mediums to find you, interact with you, stay up-to-date on your recent releases. It’s free advertising that directly hits your target audience.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Read books in your genre, outside your genre, just read as much as you can. And while you’re reading, write. Write every day. Practice different styles and tones until one feels right. It all comes down to this: Write the book you would want to read.
**Excerpt**
I pulled into the entrance of my parents’ subdivision and rounded the first bend. I could smell smoke in the distance. Brush fires were common this time of year, and since the weather affected my parents business, I was constantly reminded of how little rain we had received this spring. The current fires were several miles east and largely contained. But a few years before, I’d witnessed how fast they could spread and how much damage they could cause. I had volunteered to help clean-up after one. They were serious danger. I hoped they wouldn’t be heading our way.
I took the second turn and noticed red and white lights flickering across the palm trees up ahead. Blue lights followed. I knew those colors came from emergency vehicles, but why were they in my neighborhood in the middle of the night? It couldn’t be the fires…the smell would be stronger, clouds of smoke would be filling the air. Maybe someone got sick. It couldn’t be for any other reason…not where I lived. Nothing ever happened here.
My fingers gripped the steering wheel even harder as I prepared to take the final corner. The road straightened as our block came into full view, and my foot hammered the brake. A crowd stood in the middle of the road. Faces I recognized. Neighbors….my neighbors. They were huddled together, dressed in their pajamas, their arms wrapped around each other. Their bodies were pointed toward the house at the end of the cul-de-sac.
My house.
A sharp pain began to stab at my stomach when I noticed the yellow tape. It bordered our lot, wrapping around each of the palms and disappearing into the darkness of the backyard. Our front door continuously opened and closed, strangers moving inside and out.
Strangers dressed in uniforms.
I knew my mouth was open. I knew my hands were squeezing the steering wheel so tightly that my fingers were cramping. I knew my feet were pushing so hard on the brake that my toenails were threatening to bend. But even as my mind bolted to the house, rushing between the crowds and tearing through the yellow tape, my body was unable to move.
“Drew,” a woman said. “Thank God you’re okay, honey. We all thought you were inside…with your parents.”
I turned my head and looked toward the voice.
“Drew’s here,” the woman yelled. It took a few seconds, but I finally realized it was Carol, a neighbor I’d known since middle school when my family bought this house. She pointed down to me and waved. “Drew’s here,” she repeated, “she’s safe.” She then glanced at me. “Drew…I…”
I concentrated on her face. She was trying to tell me something.
It suddenly became so clear… in her stare, in her mouth, in the way her shoulders drooped. In the way she had said my name.
Yellow tape.
It was surrounding my house, which everyone was staring at. They knew. But what exactly did they know?
“What happened?” I asked her. I felt the words come from my mouth, but they had slid through my lips on their own as if someone other than me was forcing them out. I had no control. It had been lost as soon as I’d passed the last turn in our neighborhood…as soon as I’d witnessed the people standing in the road. The same foreign strength that had pushed those words out of my mouth also put my car in park, opened the driver side door and compelled my feet onto the pavement.
I was moving, rushing, sprinting toward the house.
To my parents.
I didn’t feel the shoulders that bumped me as I passed. I didn’t feel my flip-flop fall off. I didn’t feel the rain trickle down on my forehead, burning my eyes as it softened my makeup.
“I can’t let you go in there,” a man said. His face was close to my ear.
I felt his breath spreading over my cheek, warming skin that felt frozen despite how sweltering it was outside. Then I felt his arms as he wrapped them around me from behind, lifting me off the ground and holding me against him. I couldn’t take another step. He wouldn’t let me.
“It’s a crime scene,” he said. “Only authorized personnel can go inside.”
Crime scene.
About Marni Mann
A New Englander at heart, Marni Mann is now a Floridian inspired by the sandy beaches and hot pink sunsets of
Sarasota. She taps mainstream appeal and shakes worldwide taboos, taking her readers on a dark and breathtaking
journey.
When she’s not nose deep in her laptop, she’s scouring for chocolate, traveling, reading, or walking her four-legged
children. Visit her at www.marnismann.com.
Buy the Book!
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1nNJgFa
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pulled-beneath-marni-mann/1118927292?ean=2940149337309
Connect with Marni!
http://marnismann.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarniMannAuthor
Twitter: @MarniMann
April 6, 2014
A Questionable Friendship on Tour
Schedule
April 7 – Every Free Chance Book Reviews – Excerpt
April 8 –Confessions of the Unfaithful Widow – Guest Post, Q&A & Excerpt
April 8 –Arline’s Cozy Corner – Review
April 9 – Chick Lit Plus – Review
April 10 – Chick Lit Goddess – Excerpt
April 11- Storm Goddess Book Reviews – Review, Guest Post & Excerpt
April 11 – The Book Bag – Review & Excerpt
April 14 – Cat Lavoie – Excerpt
April 14 – Change the Word – Q&A & Excerpt
April 15 – Mrs. Mommy Booknerd’s Book Reviews – Review & Guest Post
April 16 – Book Mama Blog – Q&A & Excerpt
April 16 – Crooks on Books – Review, Guest Post, Q&A & Excerpt
April 17 – eBook Addict – Q&A
April 21 – eBook Addict – Review
April 21 – Jersey Girl Book Reviews – Review, Guest Post & Excerpt
April 21 – Sara Palacios – Review
April 3, 2014
CLP Blog Tours Interview and Excerpt: Becoming Mrs. Walsh by Jessica Gordon
**Interview**
Can you describe Becoming Mrs. Walsh in a tweet (140 characters or less)?
Becoming Mrs. Walsh is a story of love, life, relationships, in-laws, wealth, redemption, surprises, travel, friendship, & wedding planning!
Why was Becoming Mrs. Walsh a book you wanted to write?
I was intrigued by this story the second I started writing it. I love the Walsh family: their dynamic interactions and conversations kept pushing me forward until the book was finished. In addition to the family elements, I really enjoyed making it about an elite, wealthy, well-known (albeit fictional) Washington family. It’s fun to get behind-the-scenes with this glamorous family and learn how they live their lives each day. Becoming Mrs. Walsh is really a character driven story. I loved developing the characters and getting to know them better with each draft. Their decisions and emotions make them human and relatable. For me, Becoming Mrs. Walsh was an opportunity to take relatable characters and put them into extraordinary situations.
How are your plans for a sequel coming along?
The plans are progressing. I’m working on it now and so far I am happy with how it’s going. It is hard though because I really want it to be satisfying for readers, especially for those who’ve finished the book and want to continue reading about the Walshes. It is very important to me to make sure that I am able to deliver on a story that is worthy of readers and the Walshes. I put a lot of pressure on myself in that respect, but if the story seems fitting and a satisfying next step for the characters, I’m all in!
What are you currently reading?
Right now, just working on the sequel. Although I did start reading Beth Labonte’s What Stays in Vegas. I kept hearing about that book and decided I needed to try it. So far it is excellent!
Do you experience writers block? Any tips on overcoming it?
Sometimes I write myself into a corner and have to take a step back and regroup. But, I am passionate about my characters so I can usually get something down, although sometimes those ‘somethings’ do not see the light of day. The best tip is to keep writing. It is similar to working out, push through the pain and keep at it. The more you work the writing muscle the easier it gets to do it even when you are stuck. I like to just write even though I know it won’t be the final scene, but just putting something down helps.
Where do you complete most of your writing? Any certain time of day that you prefer?
I tend to write at night and at the dining room table on my laptop. Writing on my laptop flows easier than at my desktop. There is an informality about writing on a laptop that appeals to me.
**Excerpt**
“Drew, why didn’t you wake me?” Shoshana asked as she looked at her bedside clock. It was 9:45 a.m. and she had to be ready in 15 minutes.
“I figured you’d want to sleep as long as you could before the alarm,” Drew said.
“My alarm! Did it even go off? I didn’t hear anything.”
“I kept hitting snooze; you like to sleep late on Saturdays.”
She glared at her fiancé. “Yes, normally! But not when I have to be with your family all day!”
“It’s just the girls,” Drew said.
“Please, your sisters-in-law are not like normal ‘girls;’ it’s like a beauty pageant slash couture fashion show,” Shoshana said as she sprung up from bed.
She sped walked into the bathroom and began brushing her teeth with fervor.
“I guess you’d better get your crown ready,” Drew said and winked at her.
“I don’t even think I have enough time to shower!” Shoshana protested between mouthfuls of toothpaste foam.
“Why do you have to shower?”
Shoshana spit into the sink. “Are you serious?” She marched out of the bathroom and looked at him incredulously.
“Yeah, your hair looks fine, you don’t seem dirty,” Drew said with a shrug.
“Drew! Your sisters-in-law have perfect hair.”
“Stop, you’re making yourself crazy.” Drew walked into the bathroom to shave.
“Forget it, there’s no time to shower,” Shoshana yelled after him.
“Sounds good,” Drew said barely listening.
Shoshana rummaged through her closet. She threw on a black cotton dress and black flip-flops. She figured black was a chic-enough color and it would hide any sweat marks. It was August in Washington, D.C., which meant, it was hot.
“I’ll wear black and then I’ll fit in—”
“Why do they bother you so much?” Drew asked as Shoshana emerged from the closet.
Shoshana stopped and looked at him. “It’s not that they bother me.”
“What is it then?”
“I can’t really describe it.”
“They’re nice, they mean well, I really don’t get it,” Drew said as he buttoned his shirt.
“You wouldn’t get it, you’re a guy. They’re gorgeous and they’re well-dressed, always. And by the way—I’ve never seen them without makeup. They’re not human.”
“Sometimes you act like you’re not human,” Drew said, shaking his head and laughing. “Try to relax, everything will be fine.”
“Thanks for those uplifting words,” Shoshana said sarcastically as she started to apply mascara.
Drew grabbed his keys off the entrance hall table. She knew that it was his signal that the conversation was over.
He came back into the room and gave her a quick peck on the lips. “They’re only in town because of the engagement party, you usually get to avoid them.”
“Zoey still lives nearby . . .”
“Well, then you usually get to avoid two of the three.” Drew headed toward the door; Shoshana followed him.
“I like them; I just don’t feel like myself around them. I feel quiet and awkward.”
“Maybe that’s not because of them, maybe that’s a larger issue you have to tackle within yourself.”
She shook her head and smiled, it was such a classic Drew comment. ‘Maybe you’re projecting,’ ‘Maybe the larger issue is . . .’
“Let’s talk about it later.” He gave her a kiss on the forehead and walked out the door.
She knew he wouldn’t bring it up later, but she was okay with that. One of things she loved about Drew was his ability to move on. He didn’t harp on issues or create drama. He was calm and sensible.
Shoshana waited for the door to close behind him.
“Ugh.” She walked back into the bedroom and stared into the full-length mirror that hung on the back of her closet door. “The Walsh girls.”
Author Bio:
Jessica Gordon is a Johns Hopkins University alumna for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She takes her readers to the Washington, D.C. area where her characters navigate through the complex world of family, in-laws, and love. Jessica lives in Washington, D.C. with her husband.
For more information on the book, check outjessica-gordon.com. Feel free to contact Jessica at any time. She loves hearing from readers!
Connect with Jessica!
jessica@jessica-gordon.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaGordonBooks
Twitter @jessicabgordon
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