Books, Books, And More Books!

You haven’t heard from me in a while, but know that I’ve been busy writing! I’m also in the process of changing things up a little. I’m reinventing my Just thinking… blog! Yes!

I’m super excited. Soon, I’ll be back to blogging on thoughts, ideas, and just…fun…randomness! Lol. That’s how my blog started off years ago (about 10 years ago), and I have to admit, I miss just thinking and sharing my thoughts (no matter how random they are)!

So you’re probably wondering, what about my books, release dates, sneak peeks, and all of that fun stuff. Don’t worry! I’m still writing every day, publishing, and sharing about my books. BUT, I do that through my newsletter now. If you haven’t subscribed to it – you’re missing out!

To keep up with what I have going on with all things Atlanta’s Finest, Jenkins Family, and all of my book series (and those to come), be sure to subscribe to my newsletter at https://sharoncooper.net/newsletter. You’ll get cover reveals, sneak peeks of books that I have coming soon, AND you’ll have access to exclusive giveaways that are for newsletter subscribers only! That’s just to name a few of the perks.

What are you waiting for? Sign up today! https://sharoncooper.net/newsletter

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STAY TUNED for what’s next for my blog – Just thinking…

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It’s Release Day – HUNTED is now available! #newrelease #amreading #romance #romanticsuspense

Hi All!

Guess what today is – release day! *cheers go up around the world* HUNTED (Atlanta’s Finest) is now available! I had a blast writing Myles & Geneva’s story. As for characters, the two of them are as different as bananas and apples, but they click. Myles might be quiet and a little reserve, but Geneva quickly learns that he is straight up alpha! …but so is she. Lol. Needless to say, their journey to happily-ever-after comes with a couple of bumps and numerous surprises. More than anything, though, HUNTED is an entertaining story that I think you’ll enjoy!

Five things you’ll find in HUNTED:

• Spy business
• A knife, A gun, and A bat…and not necessarily in that order
• Bathroom sex
• Former underground MMA fighter
• Blasts from the past (Laz, Dakota, Mase, London, Lo, etc)

About HUNTED:

She’s everything he never knew he wanted…

Former CIA spy Myles Carrington experienced enough danger in his clandestine days. The last thing he needs in his life right now is trouble, but that’s what he gets when salon owner Geneva Ramsey crosses his path. She’s combative, fierce and the sexiest woman he’s ever met, but he’s not looking for anything serious. He promises himself only one night with her and nothing more.

Geneva kissed him on a dare. A dare that altered her carefree life, and she’s conflicted. Myles is an enigma, a puzzle she can’t piece together. Yet, she’s addicted to him—which is just crazy. She never gets serious with any guy, but after one night with Myles no other man will do. Now, she just needs him to cooperate.

When an unknown enemy from Myles’s past begins hunting him, the hunter becomes the hunted. Myles will destroy anyone who dares threaten those he loves, but will Geneva become a casualty of his past? Or can Myles save her and begin a life he thought he never wanted?

*

Excerpt from HUNTED:

Myles lifted his beer bottle but stopped inches from his lips. His heart kicked inside his chest, and heat soared through his body.

It never failed. The sight of Geneva always got his motor running, even now. At first, all he saw were her long legs encased in thigh-high boots, but then the rest of her luscious body came into view.

Damn, the woman was fine.

She reached the bottom step, and their gazes connected. Geneva had the power to make him forget that they were surrounded by people. Everything about her made her stand out from any other woman, but it was her self-confidence that really made her shine.

She headed his way. Her long strides ate up the space between them, and it was like everything and everybody disappeared. Lust radiated in her gorgeous eyes, and something so sensually intense passed between them.

Myles slammed back the rest of his beer and set the bottle on the bar before meeting her halfway. He gently grabbed hold of her hand and guided her away from the main area and prying eyes. Geneva didn’t speak, nor did she protest as they headed to the back of the basement where no one was hanging out.

Oh yeah. They were definitely picking up where they left off because right now, Myles needed her like an addict needed his next hit.

And there was no better time than the present to check out the closest bathroom.

Copyright © 2021 by Sharon C. Cooper

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GET YOUR COPY TODAY!

Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Barnes & Noble | Smashwards | Kobo | Apple | Paperback

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Becoming 50Something Now Available! #newrelease #triumph #collaboration

Hi All,

One of my long-time friends, Carmen Ray, and seven others, have come together to bring you a new release – BECOMING 50SOMETHING! Check out this inspirational collaboration of women who have overcome numerous challenges and are now thriving!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In Becoming 50Something, eight passionate women share their powerful stories of triumph and transformation on their journey to 50Something!

This collaboration features stories that detail how these amazing women overcame grief, addiction, abuse, sexism, self-doubt and much, much more! They emerged stronger and wiser, and ready to gift the world with their unique talents and abilities. Their overall message to women over 50? Never stop dreaming!

Excerpt from Carmen’s contribution:

“Oh my goodness the rejection was brutal, but fueled my determination. Forty-eight hours later, I stood up as a Gold Builder. A Gold Builder in our company is the first level of leadership that puts you in position for time freedom, financial freedom and personal freedom.  As a traditional business owner for over thirty years, I knew first hand that these freedoms were exactly what I’d always desired.

In life there will come a time when you must put on your Blue Jacket and execute Blue Jacket Behavior.  You must strive for this behavior not only when it’s convenient, but daily. You must strive for this behavior even when family turns on you, you lose your job, or you make bad decisions. You must strive for this behavior even through illness, the death of loved ones or many other life challenges.”

Click HERE to grab your copy!

About Carmen Ray:

Carmen is an expert retreat planner, workshop facilitator, and a masterful connector of people, information and ideas. Carmen’s background includes years of experience as a social entrepreneur and a Women’s Issues & Diversity Coach.  She has co-authored two books and one of the books was an Amazon International Bestseller.

​Currently, Carmen is devoting much of her time to the support and growth of network marketing entrepreneurs within the industry of travel.  The last three years has landed Carmen within the top 2% in her current network marketing project.  Her commitment is to assist others in understanding that, with the right vision and support, entrepreneurship is a much better option. Recent awards include: 2018 Chief Cornerstone, 2018 Ripple Effect (the most duplication), 2019 One Star Director, and 2019 Brand Ambassador.

Impromptu Seduction by Stephanie Nicole Norris #newrelease #romance @Stephanienrrs1

Hi All,

Today I get to spotlight one of my author friends! Look who has a new release – Stephanie Nicole Norris! If you’re familiar with her In The Heart Of A Valentine series, then you’re in for a treat. Here’s her new release. IMPROMPTU SEDUCTION is now available!

 

About the story:

Raised as a debutante, ladylike, and reserved, London Jones has stepped into unknown territory. From the moment her life collided with a man who should’ve been off-limits, a bachelor with a hot reputation—staying out of his way was the sensible thing to do. However, she finds herself caught in a tangled web of passionate fervor whenever he comes near. So much so that her ability to place a barrier between them becomes a futile battle. The heart wants what it wants, and London’s heart yearns for him.

Borboleta…

She was the impetus of his desire. The only one who captured his eye for more than a moment and beckoned his soul to blend in beautiful bliss with hers. For software engineer Kyle Valentine, his attempt to hold back the hedonism that struck whenever they were together threatened to be his undoing. His heart yearned to connect with London’s soul, and soon he finds himself questioning if he’s worthy of her love. But now that he’s gotten next to London, determination becomes the motto for his pursuit and his ultimate will to hold on to her, forever.

Get your copy today!

Amazon

About the author:

Stephanie Nicole Norris is an author from Chattanooga, Tennessee with a humble beginning. She was raised with six siblings by her mother, Jessica. Always being a lover of reading, during Stephanie’s teenage years, her joy was running to the bookmobile to read stories by R.L. Stine. After becoming a young adult, her love for romance sparked, leaving her captivated by heroes and heroines alike. With a big imagination and a creative heart, Stephanie penned her first novel Trouble In Paradise and self-published it in 2012. Her debut novel turned into a four book series packed with romance, drama, and suspense. She went on to pen grin-inducing romance and to her pleasure was awarded BRAB’s Best Book Cover of 2018 and has been nominated for several other’s including, ‘BRAB’s 2018 Rochelle Alers Best Series Award for the Falling for a Rose Series. ‘BRAB’s Donna Hill Breakout Author Award 2018, as well as Girl Have You Read’s Favorite Romance of 2019 for With Your Permission. As a prolific writer, Stephanie’s catalog continues to grow. Her books can be found on Amazon as well as www.stephanienicolenorris.com. Currently, Stephanie resides in Tennessee with her husband and four-year-old son.

A Reunion of Rivals @ReeseRyanWrites #newrelease #romance #amreading

Hi All!

Look who has a new release – the fabulous Reese Ryan! A REUNION OF RIVALS is now available everywhere. Check out a sneak peek below. And let me just say, if you haven’t read anything by Reese, you’re missing out! OH and this cover is HOT!

A REUNION OF RIVALS BY REESE RYAN

Sparks in the boardroom
and the bedroom…

She can’t let anything derail her passion project,
Not even a second chance with the sexiest man alive…

The deal that could bring Quinn Bazemore’s career back from the brink has one catch: she must partner up with her ex-lover Max Abbott. Quinn can’t forget the pleasure-filled summer they shared. But now she’s butting heads over business strategy with the mouthwatering marketing VP, even as their reawakened desire threatens to expose her deepest secrets…

AVAILABLE ON

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | APPLE | KOBO | GOOGLE

ADD ON GOODREADS

EXCERPT

As soon as the door closed behind his sister, Quinn turned to him and scowled. “Why would you give everyone the impression something is going on between us?”

He tried not to take her words personally, but damn if it didn’t feel like she’d kicked him in the teeth wearing a pair of steel toe boots.

There was a time when her greatest desire had been for them to go out on a proper date and let the world see them together. Rather than sneaking around and hooking up in his shabby little loft over the barn or in the bed of his truck, parked beneath the stars.

Heat stung his cheeks as he jammed his hands into his pockets. “They probably assume I want to talk about the project or catch up with an old friend.”

He pretended not to notice the way she pressed her lips together and furrowed her brows when he referred to them as friends.

Damn. Is there a draft in here?

The chilly vibe coming from his ex was all too real.

“And I really would love to catch up at some point. But first, I need to tell you just how sorry I am.”

“No.” She shook her head, her tousled beach waves swinging gently.

He curled the fingers still shoved into his pockets into tight fists. Max couldn’t help remembering how he’d sifted the soft strands through his fingers as she had lain in his arms. And the dreamy way she’d gazed up at him after they’d made love.

There was nothing remotely romantic about the frosty look Quinn cast in his direction from beneath her long, thick eyelashes.

“No, you won’t allow me to apologize to you, or no, you’re not willing to accept my sincere apology?” He sat on the edge of the conference table.

“Both.” Quinn folded her arms, her expression neutral. Despite the iciness that slid over his skin in response to her answer, her tone and expression betrayed no anger. “A—I don’t want your apology. B—There’s no need for it.”

Heat spanned his forehead. Max had imagined having this conversation with Quinn dozens of times. He’d envisioned anger, forgiveness and lots of incredibly hot makeup sex. What he hadn’t foreseen was Quinn standing here calm, callous and completely out of fucks to give.

Not that he didn’t deserve it.

ENTER TO WIN REESE RYAN SWAG INCLUDING:

Pretty Bookmark.
Pretty diary.
Pen set.
Reese Ryan coffee mug.

CLICK HERE

ABOUT REESE RYAN

Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional romance with captivating family drama, surprising secrets, and a posse of complex, flawed characters. A Midwesterner with deep Southern roots, Reese currently resides in semi-small-town North Carolina where she’s an avid reader, a music junkie, and a self-declared connoisseur of cheesy grits.

CONNECT WITH REESE

AUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | PINTEREST | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

Chasing After Love by Suzette Riddick #newrelease #amreading #romance @SuzetteRiddick @HonmagPr

Hi All!

Check out this latest release by author Suzette Riddick! CHASING AFTER LOVE is now available!

Can a desperate lie lead to crazy love?

Nancy Redmond’s professional life is on point. It’s her personal life that could use a major overhaul. Selling her business and relocating from the midwest to the east coast, Nancy is determined to get a fresh start and prove to herself that she doesn’t need a man to fulfill her.

Gabriel “Gabe” Saxton’s world is turned upside down when he catches the woman he’s to marry in a compromising position. Devastated, he’s convinced karma has finally caught up to him for breaking an old lover’s heart.

After ten years Nancy and Gabe are unexpectedly reunited and the attraction between them is just as magnetizing. As the couple overcomes previous hurts and betrayals and is on the path to forever, Gabe’s former life collides with the one he’s building with Nancy. Blindsided, Nancy retreats and releases Gabe from his commitment to their relationship. But will she regret her decision?

AVAILABLE ON

AMAZON

EXCERPT

Nancy Redmond was pissed the second her cell phone dinged, signaling an incoming text. If she wasn’t in one of Chicago’s five-star restaurants on New Year’s Eve, she would have made a scene. Bright red lips pursed, she glanced around the dimly-lit dining room at the other patrons. Their faces illuminated by flickering candles on the tables, they chatted and dug forks into succulent meats, while sipping on wine. Meanwhile, her stomach made obnoxious noises because she was so hungry.

Blindly, her hand searched the inside of the clutch on the chair beside her for her phone. A soft gust of air blew past her lips. Just as she thought, Christopher had texted to cancel their dinner date. It was the third time this month he’d bailed out on her at the last minute. The first time she understood because he forgot about a school event he was supposed to attend for his six-year-old kid. Being that her dad pretty much forgot about her after he and her mom divorced when she was four, Nancy refrained from catching an attitude. Every child needed their father in the picture. That’s what she believed and, besides, she didn’t want to be responsible for keeping a kid and his father apart.

Though she was livid, Nancy couldn’t help the smile that touched her lips. Her bestie, Daphne Turner-Collins, had praised her when she told her how mature she’d behaved and hadn’t flipped out on Christopher for ditching her.

“Look at you acting all grown up,” Daphne had teased.

Of course Nancy couldn’t resist telling her to “shut up.”

The second time he’d texted to cancel on their date to see Maxwell three hours before show time, Nancy couldn’t bite her tongue. His excuse this time had been his baby’s momma, Ebony, had an emergency and he had to go to the rescue to watch their son. The chick had four sisters. Nancy found it strange that not one of them was available to babysit. This time when Nancy told Daphne about Christopher jumping ship, she did admit his timing was suspect.

Before she could cuss Christopher out via text, the waiter walked up to the table.

“Miss, can I get you something to drink while you wait for your party to arrive?”

My Lord. Stephan the waiter was too fine for his own good. He wasn’t as tall as Nancy liked her men. But his flawless expresso complexion, heavily-lidded bedroom eyes and full lips made up for what he lacked in the height department. Her eyes discreetly, or so she thought, drifted to his feet. Nancy had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from groaning.

When she finally looked back up into Stephan’s handsome face, he was grinning at her and undressing her with his eyes. Heat fanned across her cheeks as she delicately cleared her throat. Somebody appreciated the effort she’d put into looking good tonight. Stephan and his fine self, for the time being, put her anger on simmer. His lingering gaze made her feel sexy and not rejected. Later for Christopher. A drink or two, something to eat and any excuse to keep Stephan coming back will keep the night from being a total bust.

“He’s not coming. I’ll be eating alone.”

Nancy hated how her voice lightly quivered the way it did right before you’re ready to cry. She wanted to jump across the table and wrap her arms and legs around Stephan when he murmured for her ears only, “He’s a damn fool. Sis, you’re beautiful. You deserve better.”

Yes, I do! “Thank you.”

By the time Nancy drank three glasses of wine, stuffed her face with savory seasoned lamb chops, grilled brussels sprouts, and red velvet cake, her mood had soured again. Couple after couple floated through the revolving glass doors, hugged up as they sought refuge from the cold.

Envy was such an ugly emotion that had taken Nancy years to combat. She could feel its familiar tentacles crawling up her insides as the couples were ushered past her table. Surrounding her like happy sharks in an ocean of sappy love, holding hands and grinning as they spoke in hushed tones. Nancy had to get out of there when the dude at the table across from her slid a ring box across the white linen tablecloth. She rolled her eyes when the young woman gasped before covering her mouth with both hands.

“Aw, crap.”

Nancy realized she was louder than she intended when dude shot her the evil eye. But she could care less about his funky proposal or the fact that she probably spoiled the mood. Her glass of red wine toppled over when she abruptly stood, spilling the contents and splattering the front of the overpriced dress she’d bought to impress Christopher.

Tucking her clutch under her arm, Nancy slightly staggered her way to the ladies’ room. Now in front of the mirror, tears stung the back of her eyes as her gaze went to the tiny spots the red wine made against the cream-colored fabric of the dress she wore. It felt like her entire life was nothing but one big stain beginning with her conception. Only two things had ever gone right in her life. Her friendship with Daphne and owning her own business.

Well, maybe three. After years of being at odds with her mother, Madeline, they were finally in a good place. Recently they were able to pick up where they left off when she was a teenager. Just as they were getting settled into a comfortable mom-daughter relationship, Madeline moved to Haddonfield, New Jersey six months ago. She’d joined a counseling practice across the bridge in Philly as a behavioral health specialist.

Nancy hustled her butt into a stall before a tear could fall and she was caught by someone coming in to use the bathroom. An overwhelming feeling of loneliness suffocated her as she wished for her mom or Daphne. Even though they were only a phone call away, they were probably off doing their own thing and could do without her drama. Daphne and her husband, Adrian, were most likely cozied up butt-naked somewhere in that huge house they lived in. And Madeline out with co-workers at some fancy club in Philly to bring in the new year. This once she would have to tough it out until the morning.

“Oh no,” Nancy mumbled under her breath as she made her way to the sink to wash her hands. Carefully, she set her clutch on the vanity next to the woman who she’d almost ruined her proposal. Turning on the water, Nancy eyeballed her reflection and then the woman. When their eyes met, Nancy smiled although she was miserable. “Congratulations.”

A brief stint of counseling taught her it was okay to show kindness even in the midst of chaos.

Blue eyes sparkled at Nancy as the woman smiled and wriggled the fingers on her left hand, displaying a sizable diamond. “Thank you! Isn’t it gorgeous?” she beamed, now holding her hand practically under Nancy’s nose.

Nancy couldn’t help laughing. Girlie was acting like they were besties. “It is.”

CONNECT WITH SUZETTE

AUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

MORE THAN LOVE is now available! #newrelease #romance #contemporaryromance

Yes! It’s here! MORE THAN LOVE (Jenkins Family & Friends) is now available!

I hope you enjoy Benjamin and Makena’s story as much as I enjoyed writing it!

 

Going from friends to lovers doesn’t come easy…

Corporate Attorney Benjamin Jenkins is one of Cincinnati’s most eligible bachelors, but he’s only interested in one woman—Makena Nichols. Though life took them in different directions, they’ve been friends for over forty years. Now Ben wants more than just friendship. He wants all of her.

Makena compares every man, including her ex-husband, to Ben. He’s her heart. She’s crazy about him, and what they share is more than love. But she’s not willing to risk their friendship for a romance that might not last. However, Ben is persistent, and her stubbornness is no match to his.

When a Jenkins’ family secret shatters Ben’s world, Makena is the one he turns to. But will their friendship survive a roller-coaster of emotions? Or will their eternal love bring them through this challenging time?

Get your copy today!

Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | iTunes | Kobo

Paperback

Now Also Available in Paperback!

 

Amazon | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Smashwords | iTunes | Paperback

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Amazon | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Smashwords | iTunes | Paperback

 

Get Your Copy Of – BETRAYED #newrelease #romanticsuspense

Hi All!

The feedback about BETRAYED (Atlanta’s Finest #5) has been outstanding! For those who already picked up a copy – thank you! For those of you who haven’t – it’s not too late!

What readers are saying:

The chemistry between Angelo and Zenobia was explosive from start to finish. So many layers to Zenobia, that the twists and turns kept me trying to figure out the who. She’s a fighter, risking it all… Amazon Reviewer

I liked the rollercoaster of emotions this story took me on… Amazon Reviewer

Loved this latest book about the men of Supreme Security! It was hot & sexy but also had a riveting plot to boot. Can’t wait for the next one!!! Barnes & Noble Reviewer

The attraction these two have nearly burn up the pages from start to finish…Ms. Cooper weaves a story of intrigue, murder and deceit that has you turning pages and guessing what can happen next. Amazon Reviewer

When secrets turn into lies…

Former DEA agent Angelo González’s final undercover operation exploded in a betrayal he’ll never forget or forgive. He’s moved on. As one of Atlanta’s Finest, providing personal security for the rich and famous, Angelo is living his best life. Until he has to play fake boyfriend to one of their clients. Not just any client. A client who stirs something so sensually intense inside him, he’s not sure he can fake anything.

Singing sensation, Zenobia Westfield’s troubled past and poor judgment, especially with men, nearly destroyed her life. Music saved her, but now her safety is in jeopardy, forcing her to seek personal security. Angelo is more than she expected. Dangerously sexy. Fearless. Attentive. The attraction sizzling between them is impossible to ignore, but her track record with men has her treading lightly.

When the threat against Zenobia escalates, Angelo will stop at nothing to protect her. But lies and treachery come to the forefront. Will another betrayal destroy their newfound love? Or will Angelo realize in time that Zenobia is a woman worth fighting for?

Get your copy!

Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | iTunes | Kobo

Coming Soon!

MORE THAN LOVE (Jenkins Family & Friends)

Many of you have asked – Will Uncle Ben (Benjamin Jenkins) ever get a story? My answer – Yes!

In MORE THAN LOVE, you’ll get to know Uncle Ben better, and you’ll meet his love interest (his best friend), Makena Nichols.

About the story (DRAFT – Blurb subject to change):

Going from friends to lovers doesn’t come easy…

Corporate Attorney Benjamin Jenkins is one of Cincinnati’s most eligible bachelors, but he’s only interested in one woman—Makena Nichols. Though life took them in different directions, they’ve been friends for over forty years. Now Ben wants more than just friendship. He wants all of her.

Makena compares every man, including her ex-husband, to Ben. He’s her heart. She’s crazy about him, and what they share is more than love. But she’s not willing to risk their friendship for a romance that might not last. However, Ben is persistent, and her stubbornness is no match to his.

When a Jenkins’ family secret shatters Ben’s world, Makena is the one he turns to. But will their friendship survive a rollercoaster of emotions? Or will their eternal love bring them through this challenging time?

Coming March 2020!

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Woman@Heart by Claire Yezbak Fadden! #newrelease #inspirational

It’s always a pleasure to have my friend Claire visit my blog! She has a new release! If you want a few laughs, thoughtful moments, and family stories you can relate to, this book is for you! I found myself literally laughing out loud, or thinking ‘I can relate to that!’, or thinking ‘good one!’ all the way through the book! It’s a super thought provoking and fun read! Check it out!

About the Book

Women are an unstoppable force, united by sticky note to-do lists, soccer schedules, and occasional spa pedicures. We share laughter and sorrows, taking comfort in each other’s strengths and commonality of experiences. Woman@Heart is a celebration of that sisterhood.

Originally published as columns in thirty regional magazines, these heartfelt, whimsical essays are mirrors every woman peers into and frequently recognizes herself. Each piece shares the unpredictable, meaningful – and often comical – adventures of one gal’s journey as a daughter, a wife, a mother, a sister, a friend.

In these slices of life, you’ll find a sisterly common ground; a witty safe place to laugh at our circumstantial camaraderie and be inspired by the female spirit.

Excerpt

Momisms: A Mother’s Words of Advice

My sons will never be mothers. They’ll never know firsthand the joys of morning sickness, labor, and delivery. Hopefully, one day they will become parents, but the closest they’ll get is to be a dad. And in my world, fatherhood is light years away from motherhood.

Sure, dads teach their children neat stuff like how to hit a ball off a tee, draw to an inside straight, or burp out the National Anthem. But it’s mom who imparts the meaningful wisdom, the stuff that changes lives. Moms do more than teach you how to sew on a button or make a hard-boiled egg. Our advice is a mixture of the practical (check for TP before you sit down), the emotional (laugh some every day) and the spiritual (what goes around, comes around).

I didn’t embrace this role as the family sage. It just came with the territory; this mammoth task of offering insight, common sense, and real-world perspective to my sons. To share the knowledge I’ve garnered over the past few decades. This is a lifelong project and I realize that a lot of what I have to say isn’t original, new, or high-tech. With my advice and $3.75 they could get a grande mocha at the mall. In fact, some of my most useful nuggets of enlightenment are borrowed, recycled, or stolen directly from my mom, Florence.

Nevertheless, as the days unfold, I continue to reveal my own brand of “momisms” to Shawn, Jake and Seth, when I think they’re listening—however, frequently they’re not. That’s usually when I’ll hear my mom’s voice coming from my mouth. “Never give up. Don’t waste anything. This, too, will pass. You get less wrinkles if you smile.”

I think I’ve come up with a few of my own gems—words my sons will sagely repeat in years to come, as they become adults, get married, and parent my grandchildren. Here are some of my favorites, offered in no particular order; strategies that help me keep priorities straight in the midst of chaos, confusion, and what we commonly call daily life. Borrow, rewrite or purloin what you wish:

Put things back where you found them.

Spend less than you make.

Don’t be in a rush to grow up.

Don’t be in a rush for your children to grow up.

Smile often.

Listen more than you talk.

Take time for those you love.

Each day is a new chance to discover your life.

Things work out.

Don’t be afraid to say: I love you. Thank you, and I’m sorry.

Pray, pray, and then pray some more.

A new pair of shoes fixes just about anything.

Stay in the moment.

Take out the trash, even if it isn’t your turn.

You’ll get another chance.

Put the seat down.

Hug someone every day. When you are hugged, hug back.

Put on a pot of tea.

Use a tissue.

Walk the dog.

Grow roses.

It’s okay to be bored.

Don’t put the empty box back on the shelf.

Pack an extra pair of underwear.

Floss.

Let the other guy go first.

Take care of your friends.

Count to ten. Count to ten again.

My hope is that what I’ve learned and tried to pass on to my children will enhance their lives in ways that successful careers and money can’t. But that’s probably wishful thinking. Let’s be real: none of us takes Mom’s word for it. I didn’t. I had to find things out in my own way. I still do. No shortcuts for Claire. And inevitably, when life presents me with another chance to learn a lesson (check the gas tank before you get on the freeway), I nod my head and think: Yeah, Mom told me that. She knew.

My trio of fellas is wandering down their own “I-gotta-learn-it-myself” path. They’re figuring out the stuff I tried to tell them. In the years to come, when they become dads, I hope they’ll see the value of what I’ve shared. The greatest compliment to me would be to see that same head nod. A recognition of that ah-ha moment when it all comes together. And they’ll think: Yep, Mom really did know what she was talking about.

Get your copy today!

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | Kobo | Goodreads | BookBub

 

About the Author

When she’s not playing with her granddaughters, Pennsylvania native Claire Yezbak Fadden is writing contemporary women’s fiction. Her books feature strong women who overcome life’s challenges, always putting their families first.

There’s a special spot in Claire’s heart for carousel horses – quite possibly the result of watching “Mary Poppins” 13 times as a young girl. She loves butterflies, ladybugs and confetti! Just ask anyone who’s received a birthday card from her.

The mother of three lives in Orange County, California with her husband, Nick and three spoiled dogs. Claire’s work as an award-winning journalist, humor columnist and editor has appeared in more than 100 publications across the United States, Canada and Australia. She is the author of the three-part Begin Again series.  Woman@Heart is her first nonfiction book.

Find Claire online:

Follow Claire @claireflaire,

Email her at claire@clairefadden.com,

Like her Facebook Fan Page

Visit her at clairefadden.com.

Join her mailing list.

Woman@Heart Blog: https://clairextraordinaire.wordpress.com/

 

Redesigning Happiness by Nita Brooks #Newrelease #womensfiction

REDESIGNING HAPPINESS BY NITA BROOKS

Real life is a work in progress… #DesignYourLife

It wasn’t easy for Yvonne Cable to get over a heartbreaking relationship and revamp her life. But now the once-broke single mom is Atlanta’s most sought-after interior designer—and one-half of the media’s hottest power couple. She and her celebrity fiancé, Nathan, are a perfect, practical match, on—and off—camera. And with their new home improvement reality show the object of a fierce network bidding war, there’s no limit to how far they can go . . .

But Yvonne is stunned when mogul Richard Barrington III unexpectedly makes an offer for their program. He’s the man she thought left her for a more successful woman. And he’s the father of her son—though he didn’t know it until now. Richard wants to get to know their boy, and Yvonne agrees, though she’s wary. Yet little by little, she’s finding it hard to resist the responsible, caring man Richard has become. But when a scandalous leak puts everything Yvonne’s worked for at risk, she’ll have to look beyond surfaces to come to terms with who she is—and discover what she truly wants.

AVAILABLE ON:

AMAZON | KENSINGTON | BARNES & NOBLE

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Nita Brooks is giving away a signed copy of Redesigning Happiness & a $10 Amazon gift card to a lucky winner!

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ABOUT NITA BROOKS

A reading addict, self-professed connoisseur of home improvement shows, and a collector of teapots, Nita Brooks resides in South Carolina with her family. You can connect with her on Facebook and Twitter at @AuthorNitaB.

CONNECT WITH NITA BROOKS

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