The Mystery of MabelMary and Nancy Drew

The youngest of four, I owned the lead role in hand-me-downs. 

Oftentimes, I didn't have a choice; my mother made me wear those dreaded secondhand outfits. Used books, however, were a totally different story - no pun intended. 

As a tanned, freckled-face kid, I spent my summers in The Hamptons, with Noyac Bay and Long Beach as my outdoor toy-chests. When it poured, thundered, or a not-so-merry weatherman hinted at a nor'easter - all water-related activities were nixed - at least temporarily. That's when my back-up plan involving my sister's Nancy Drew Mysteries kicked in.

Evelyn Infante* Self-Published Author

What better way to become acquainted with an author than through a friend!

Tui, a longtime friend and former banking colleague introduced me to author Evelyn Infante, who goes by the pen name of Evels. From the get-go, my interest soared as I realized Evels is akin to the Energizer Bunny - she doesn't stop going. Chock-full of determination, Evels has two published books and one in the works. She's one tenacious and ultra spicy self-published author.

In her research, Evels found “a huge market for women of a certain age who like to read about similar women enjoying the best sex of their lives.” With this in mind, Evels first book, The Essence, inspired by The Bridges of Madison County, but with a “Move over 50 Shades of Grey” twist, is a romantic tale about reunion – along with the added complications of life, love, and sex.   

Inspired by the Art of Writing

I took the quiz: What Country in the World Best Fits Your Personality. My result: FRANCE. 

Here's how it read:

You are a romantic who enjoys strolling through cobblestone streets and markets. You are inspired by art and architecture, and thrive being surrounded by other artists and intellectuals. You enjoy the bustle of a city, but also love spending time in the warm countryside, sitting at a cafe, and having a glass of wine or coffee. Your soul is nourished by being in nature, and by having deep meaningful conversation about love, art, and the meaning of life.

What country fits your personality? Click here and take the quiz. 

If you get the same result, I'll meet you in France where we can have a deep meaningful conversation about writing. See ya there!

Rule #2: Always Be Prepared

It being a long weekend here in The Bahamas - something to do with Labour Day and Whit Monday - I decided to pack up my swim gear, iPod and fictional book of 700+ pages and drive east towards Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island (P.I.). There, I'd find the turquoise sea - warm and clear. Since Atlantis and the exclusive Ocean Club Estates topped off opposite ends of the beach, I could also enjoy a swim and a stroll that spanned approximately 1 3/4 miles.