For over three decades, I’ve been immersed in the world of dance—competing and teaching ballroom, Latin, country, swing and line dancing. However, the pandemic pause led me back to a former passion: writing. In 2023 I published my debut novel, Jojo Unplugged. Now every day is a balancing act between choreography and weaving words.
The origin story of bookblush began when I was assisting my mother, whose eyesight was faltering, to navigate the world of audiobooks via Libby. It often felt like a guessing-game, trying to determine which books contained clean content, since that was her preference. Even five-star book reviews provided little assistance unless I was willing to sift through the comments.
With movies, the process is easier, but the publishing industry has resisted a rating system, possibly because it smacks of censorship. Well, I hate censorship, too, which is why I’ve invited authors to participate in helping to sort their own books. Some are already involved and I hope more will join.
In a way, Bookblush is playing the part of matchmaker by helping like-minded authors and readers to find one another. So, please spread the word. Regardless of preference, there’s a blush level for everyone.
Jamie
The paparazzi can’t find her. Her agent can’t find her. Maybe love can.
Pop superstar Jojo needs to disappear for a few weeks to finish writing songs for a new album and get some space from her controlling manager. Fortunately, when her trademark makeup and wigs come off, she’s practically invisible to reporters and fans. At a lakeside cabin in Vermont, she can work without distraction . . . until one evening when a father and daughter paddle their canoe up to her dock.
Indie rocker Matt Heston quit his music career ten years ago after the death of his wife, settling down to raise his daughter in a tiny Vermont town and waiting for the reporters to finally lose interest. And they did—until that pop star with the brash wigs and makeup recorded a cover of his classic ballad “Sweet Side.” Now the press is back again and goading him for comments. Unfortunately, diplomacy isn’t his strength.
Matt’s talented daughter Gracie has musical dreams of her own—dreams Matt thinks are far too big for a twelve-year old. But she’s thrilled that the beautiful visitor in the lakeside cabin is full of encouragement, and even shares her taste in pop music.
Recommended for adults and young adults who enjoy “Kisses Only” romance.
