What's next and some great news

I had some truly lovely news this month - The Best Laid Plans (or the red umbrella book, as I call it, thanks to an awesome cover) is a finalist in the Romantic Book of the Year Awards down here in Australia. This award (known as the RuBY for short) is judged by readers, which makes it especially meaningful for me. 

I am so thrilled that this book has found a home in readers' hearts. It was a bit of an unusual story - not that much sex, and the romance was very subtle, two people circling each other with a larger agenda allowing them to ignore their own feelings. To know that it's struck a chord with readers is a wonderful, wonderful thing. I will be going to the Gold Coast in sunny Queensland to attend the conference and the award ceremony, and I will be walking on air because of this nomination. I will also be amongst excellent company - the peerless and hugely popular Anna Campbell, Fiona Lowe, who has been nominated for just about everything with Boomerang Bride.  There's also a moving love story set during World War II by Mardi McConnochie. As I have said to many of my friends, just being nominated is an honor. 

I'm able to share the cover of my August release, Within Reach, now. Isn't it pretty? The art department have out done themselves. This is Angie and Michael's book, and I loved writing it. I can't wait to hear what readers think of it. 

[image error]Here's the blurb:

Something more than friendship

Being a single dad was never on Michael Young's agenda. Yet with the sudden loss of his wife, that's exactly the role he has. On his best days, he thinks he can handle it. On his worst... Luckily, family friend Angie Bartlett has his back, easily stepping in to help out. 

Lately, though. something has changed. 

Michael is noticing exactly how gorgeous Angie is, and how single she is. She's constantly in  his thoughts and he feels an attraction he never expected. Does he dare disrupt the very good thing they have going? If they have a fling that goes nowhere, he stands to lose everything - including her. But if they make it work, he stands to gain everything! 

It will probably not surprise you to learn that I sooked a little while writing this book. Thinking about Billie, Michael's dead wife, and all that she's left behind, and the sadness that we all have to deal with when we lose someone we love... Well, it was pretty emotional. But I had a lot of fun with Michael and Angie's chemistry, and once they got past their guilt they definitely steamed up the sheets. The two children in this book are based on my neighbor's children. Lisa and Shane are kind enough to share Beth and Charlie with us on occasion, and they are charming, funny and lovely kids. It was a pleasure to "borrow" them for this book. 

If you're visiting because you've heard about my self-published book, Her Best Worst Mistake, here's a link to the book page where you can find links to all the various places selling it on-line, as well as some quotes from readers and background information about the book. I've been fortunate enough to enjoy some wonderful reviews of this book, and I'm working on more books to self publish later in the year. Exciting times!

Until next time,

Sarah