What I’m Working On

I’ve dropped some hints here and there on social media about my next book, but I figured I’d give an official update.

I’m working on Marilee’s story! If you’ve read Just Ella, you’ll remember Marilee as the vibrant, fun, and often silly sister. She is the second youngest and was more than a little bit shallow and naive.

Marilee has her happily ever after. She married the handsome son of a sovereign duke and moved to his picturesque estate. But after eight months of marriage, Marilee has lost her love for life, as it’s been squashed out of her by her domineering husband. He has pushed her to the breaking point. So when he suddenly dies, she is left to rebuild her life and her confidence with the help of a few loyal servants, and her kind neighbor, Mr. Sutton. But reclaiming the ability to love and trust will take time and patience, from both of them.

I wrote the first pages of this book while on a flight to Virginia last April. I was on my way to surprise my youngest sister for her baby shower. We were all sitting around on her front porch when I pulled it out and let several of my sisters (I have 5) read it. I could tell they were as intrigued by it as I was, and I’ve been excited about it ever since. I’ve also been anxious to know what would happen because I always have to wait and see what my characters decide to do. It’s been fun watching Marilee take charge of her life and grow up.

I’ve got a cover photo shoot scheduled! I’m so excited about the location. I saw the pictures of this place and was blown away by the sheer gorgeousness. It made me wish I was planning my wedding so that I could have a party there! I have enlisted the fantastic Fauset Photography (another fabulous sister) and I’m excited to see what we can come up with!