1. You love books about women’s lives
Readers wrote to me about how much they loved Charlotte Perkins, the mother in The Jetsetters. For my new book, I decided to focus on three mothers: Liza, Annette, and Whitney. It was incredible to create their lives, from their jobs (one is a cookbook writer—and one, a realtor to the mega-wealthy) to their private lives, to the secrets they are too afraid to share.
2. You love to stay up all night with a book
I adore novels with rich, complex characters, but I also love a mystery that keeps me reading all night. I am a huge reader—I read mostly in a bubble bath—and my favorite novels are impossible to put down. At the heart of THE LIFEGUARDS is a mystery, and every character has passionate secrets. I hope it keeps my readers up all night!
3. You love an ending that surprises you and makes you call a friend IMMEDIATELY
I thought I had figured out the end of THE LIFEGUARDS. I was so sure that Random House printed thousands of early copies to send to book reviewers, film scouts, and influencers. But then (again, in a bubble bath!) the characters came to me and told me I was wrong. I had to call my publisher with a completely different ending, so now the hardcover book ends differently than the galleys! I hope you are as thrilled as I am with the twists and turns. In some ways, it’s the only possible ending…but also, it’s insane.
4. You love to visit vibrant cities via books
THE LIFEGUARDS is set in Austin, TX, my hometown. The characters eat my favorite Austin foods, dance at the Broken Spoke dance hall, swim at Barton Springs. When I can’t get on a plane, I love to visit places by reading novels, and THE LIFEGUARDS is a sun-drenched vacation in a book.
5. You’re in the mood to party
I am a very bad cook, so I’ll be ordering all my favorite Austin treats for a big celebration on publication day, April 5. I’ve spoken with some local chefs, so will be posting recipes on my Facebook and Instagram channels, in case you want to host a celebration for your book club with the tastes of Austin. Here’s my menu—and thank you for your support. Cheers to joyful gatherings, friendship, and great books!
DRINKS:
SNACKS:
MAINS:
DESSERTS:
