What’s new in Book-Land?
Every book is a work in progress. A writer is either working on marketing/publishing, editing, or answering the pounding on the door of the next great idea. Find below my works in their various states of progress.
If you’re curious about my writing process, I’ll peel back the curtain to give you an inside view. I am a self-described chaos writer (I dislike the term pantser). However, I am experimenting with some basic outlining. Since change is my only constant, I expect my style to evolve along with myself. Given my tumultuous process, I find inspiration can come crashing in from any source and often has. Work best flows while sitting in my cozy library, with a water view, and listening to a carefully curated playlist.
Better Late Than Never is a like sinking into a book with old friends. The characters are unique, loveable and I found myself emotionally invested in each of them. This story is about being human, finding connection and the ultimate transformation story. I cannot wait to read it again, even if that means I may shed a few tears at meeting these characters again in the process.
Review of Better Late Than Never
KARA INFANTE
Host of award-nominated podcast, Bookish Flights
Recent Manuscripts & status
Agoraphobia makes it impossible for Bob Friday, a mature gentleman, to leave his home. But boredom and his deep fascination with people are making his carefully constructed world uncomfortable. After watching a popular travel program with his part-time housekeeper/assistant Ruth Pryun, he hatches an outlandish plan. Ruth is offered the opportunity to be his travel proxy. In exchange for free vacations, she needs only to report her adventures back to him. However, Ruth’s carefree young days are gone. Life’s bitter disappointments have left her sour and gruff. But the temptation to escape her settled, sad, and lonely existence is enough to make her accept the bizarre arrangement. Is it too late to find the fulfillment they seek, or will they learn it is better late than never?
STATUS: Looking for a publisher
Better Late Than Never
Warning – This is NOT a cozy murder mystery, although it may remind you of one. Our heroine has no experience in solving crimes, but she isn’t going to let that stop her. A shocking inheritance from her estranged Aunt Florence prompts Daphne Patterson to head east to the small town of Cobb, Maine. Her intended quick trip rapidly spins out of control. Before finishing her unpacking, Daphne finds a clue that leads her to believe her aunt was murdered. Although the majority of the town thinks her claim is misguided, sticking around to solve a crime, provides a needed escape. A little distance is just what she desires in order to get away from a controlling mother and a humiliating breakup with her ex-fiancé. However, unraveling this maybe murder is not her biggest challenge. Daphne will be required to go on a journey of self-discovery as she builds new relationships and uncovers family secrets. Will she be willing to let go of her old identity, in order to get her storybook happy ending?
STATUS: In editing/beta reading
The Daphne Project
After months of caring for her husband, as he healed from an accident, the couple is offered the chance to house-sit a B&B during the winter in a coastal town. As they work to redefine their relationship and themselves, the past and present swirl around them as they discover secrets hidden in the quiet picturesque village.
STATUS: In Development
Those Who Are Called to the Sea
What happens when you take a small step towards living a bigger life? Especially when you are afraid of taking risks! This story is filled with both small steps and big leaps towards living your life to the fullest. Bob and Ruth, while you might think an unlikely pair, are just the right kind of support for one another as they expand their comfort zones to create more fulfilling lives. It was easy to root for Bob and Ruth. Their courage and openness draws not only the reader in, but also the big-hearted folks they meet along the way. It is amazing what is possible when you have someone in your corner who truly sees and accepts you. Enjoy your time with Bob and Ruth. And don’t be surprised when you are inspired to live a little bigger too!"
Review of Better Late Than Never
VICKI SMITH
Licensed psychotherapist, and host of the "Power to the Pleasers" podcast
Jacqui’s take on character development
This is a quick behind-the-scenes look at the co-main character, from my feel-good fiction manuscript – Better Late Than Never, Bob Friday.
Get to know Bob
Get to know Ruth
This is a quick behind-the-scenes look at the co-main character, from my feel-good fiction manuscript – Better Late Than Never, Ruth Pruyn.
Get to know Daphne
This is a quick behind-the-scenes look at the main character, from my feel-good fiction manuscript – The Daphne Project, Daphne Patterson
Interested in books & publishing?
Are you interested in working with me on my journey towards publication for my manuscripts? Perhaps you have a question or comment about my writing. Please use this handy contact interface to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you.