I’ve grown fond of using hashtags and codenames on Twitter and Instagram for my works in progress. Today, I’m sharing a glimpse behind the writing on #projecthijinksensue AKA Love Overboard.

During the editing process of A Perfect Picture Of Us, I started writing a sequel but kept getting stuck. Working with my amazing editor at The Wild Rose Press, I learned how to strengthen my story-telling. I was in so deep in the first novel, I couldn’t see the story of the second.

At the same time, I learned some devastating health news to a beloved family member. The sequel to A Perfect Picture Of Us became a very dark and sad book. I needed an escape.

I decided to write something fun just for me. I had no restrictions on the length and no expectations of what to do with it when finished. The freedom unblocked me creatively. Last November, I signed the contract for Love Overboard.

The book is shorter and set on a seven-night Alaskan cruise (aka my dream vacation). Caitlyn Moore saved for years to afford the trip, but when she reaches her cabin, she’s greeted by her ex-fiance. In a moment of misunderstanding, she fakes amnesia to stay on the ship. And…hijinks ensue.

I hope the story is a fun “trip” for you, too!

Happy reading!

Did you know I’m on Pinterest? Click here to see all the currently public boards. 

When I’m writing a first draft, I don’t often utilize mood boards. I have a clear picture in my head and seeing other images distracts me from the story. I often save specific links for research, but it’s not until I dive into editing that I start searching for tangible proof of the novel I conceived.

My publisher is interested in what the story looks like to help with the cover art. And, this is also a fun distraction when I get stuck during a difficult editing session.

While writing Love Overboard, I had a mood board during the entire process. I didn’t add much to start, but I needed to keep track of various excursions and travel itineraries. If you want to see the entire board, click here. I set this story on my dream trip (crossing my fingers, I’ll be taking in a few years) and escaping into these online resources was easy.