Have you seen the movie Love Actually? I have watched it about a thousand times. Makes me cry, every time.
I mention Love Actually because I have been thinking of the wonderful scenes when Colin Firth gets away from his old life – and a girlfriend cheating on him with his own brother – to write a book. He settles into a lovely lakeside cottage. Of course, in the film he is distracted by a dark-eyed beauty, a language barrier and a series of mishaps. Still, the idea of escaping to write fueled my imagination.
This year I am fortunate to actually be going on a writing retreat. No Portuguese cottage but no roughing it either. My wonderful friends Lynn and Mark have allowed me free reign over their fantastic beach house while they travel to – of all places – Portugal. I jumped at the chance…the warmth of the Carolinas, the beauty of the beach and the comfort of their home.
The house, named “Blue Skies”, sits ocean side with sunny seating over the dunes, water views from every room and a covered deck that just screams for a few hours of writing in the shade and fresh air. Even the name evokes positive vibes. How can I not write beautiful prose in a home named “Blue Skies”?
So, I am packing up my computer and my ideas and heading south. I will leave the remnants of a sloppy Chicago winter behind, trading it for the buds of spring.
I am excited, contemplating dolphin watching and feeling the sand between my toes.
A new Bed & Breakfast Billionaire story has been bubbling in my brain, set on this beach perhaps. The timing is perfect for a follow up to Desire & Dessert, the first B&B Billionaire story, and completing book four of the Beguiling Bachelor novels. There are new stories to write and new ideas to flesh out. What better place to do it than from a chair on the sand or on the deck of “Blue Skies” listening to the surf, feeling the warm air and basking in the peace and quiet.
Stay tuned for March missives from the Southeast. I will update you on my progress here on my blog and in my newsletter. Not an insider yet? Just sign up here.
I wonder if my characters will start speaking with a southern accent. I know I will, y’all.
What to Read Next?
This week’s recommendation comes from a fan. When Jeanne wrote to tell me her favorite authors included Willow Winters and Lauren Landish, I went exploring their works. This week’s suggestion is a collaboration of theirs, Mr. CEO. This is a fast paced, white-hot, sexy book. Standalone with no cliffhangers and more than 400 5-star reviews. Not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate a sexy novel with great characters, this could be your next read.
Contest of the Week
This week’s question is for all your readers of Bedeviled, the third book in the Beguiling Bachelor Series. Charlotte and Alex aficionados should have no problem answering this question.
Charlotte moves into Alex’s condo despite reservations because:
a/ she has a sprained ankle and too many steps at her own apartment
b/ she is evicted from her current apartment
c/ she is in love with Alex and jumps at his offer
d/ her brother has moved into her place and made her life crazy