Hope this finds all you reading friends finding relief from the summer heat at the pool or lake, lounging beneath a shade tree shade with a good book!

Here, at Always Summer Books, we’re doing the same, and what a summer it’s been so far.

Great folks from Elkhart Lake

Family invitations and obligations took my husbandDave and I to the Midwest in July, where my effervescent sister-in-law, Judy Cowman, single-handedly organized some wonderful book events. One of them took place at a great cafe in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, where I was delighted to meet spend time with many readers. Dave even played guitar with a local group called Shammim Jon who provided background music for the event.  A big shout-out to all of you who where there.  Mille grazie!  (Watch Dave jamming here: IMG_1487 )

Me da and I in Iowa; Isn’t he dapper?

Then, it was on to Iowa, where I was blessed to spend time with my father.  What a sweetheart; he’s definitely aging like a fine wine.  It’s one of life’s great regrets to not be able to live close to him.  For any of you living the Quad-Cities’ area, Bianca’s Vineyard is now available in the libraries there.

A quick camping trip with our treasured children (and grandson) in the Cascades of Oregon after we returned home, and now it’s back to business. Although, the weather being as fantastic as it’s been, writing on the deck in this glorious countryside has been pure bliss.

And for those of you who live near Portland, Seattle, and possibly Reno, it’s almost Festa time; truly, highlights of the year!  I will be there, available to sign books and answer any questions you may have. Check out Portland’s schedule here, and Seattle’s here. Will send an update on Reno’s when I know for sure.

I expect Domenico’s Table to be back from the editor soon. After the inevitable rewriting, it goes to the publisher. More on that, also, as it gets closer.  Am still shooting for a fall launch.

Lastly, for those of you in book clubs, I’m always available to speak, either in person or by Skype. Until then, miei amici, stay cool and enjoy life like the Italians!

Heading back to summer in Oregon