The Foundation
This stand-alone thriller is a sequel to The Vernazza Effect. Ella's best friend, Tara Collins, takes center stage in a riveting tale of good versus evil. The second edition has a new cover and a tighter plot.
The gist: Tara Collins is an idealistic young lawyer. Her nonprofit foundation is asked to represent a 14-year-old girl who refuses to talk about her violent past. Everything comes to a head when Alexander, a businessman who operates on both sides of the law, tries to keep the girl from talking. Tara risks everything to save her, and all three of them must come to terms with the impact of their choices. * This novel contains profanity, sex, and violence.
To order a book, click here.
The gist: Tara Collins is an idealistic young lawyer. Her nonprofit foundation is asked to represent a 14-year-old girl who refuses to talk about her violent past. Everything comes to a head when Alexander, a businessman who operates on both sides of the law, tries to keep the girl from talking. Tara risks everything to save her, and all three of them must come to terms with the impact of their choices. * This novel contains profanity, sex, and violence.
To order a book, click here.
The Two Covers
I first published The Foundation in August, 2014, using the cover on the left. In October 2020, I published a second edition with the cover on the right. Why did I do this? Feedback from readers. The new image better captures the essence of the story, which is about three characters, not just one (Tara is now on the back cover). I also tightened the plot, eliminated scenes, and found a more engaging way to tell the story.
FUN FACT
Our friend, Melissa, was the inspiration for Tara Collins's physical description. This picture was taken of us at an Oakland Raider's game. Thanks for helping a budding writer, Missy!
Our friend, Melissa, was the inspiration for Tara Collins's physical description. This picture was taken of us at an Oakland Raider's game. Thanks for helping a budding writer, Missy!
PHOTO SHOOT!
In March, 2014, Missy dressed up like Tara the lawyer, and we drove to the Alameda County Court House in Oakland to take pictures. Andy and Marc shot a bazillion pictures so we could pick our favorite one. Missy was a great sport. She looked awesome in her business suit.
In March, 2014, Missy dressed up like Tara the lawyer, and we drove to the Alameda County Court House in Oakland to take pictures. Andy and Marc shot a bazillion pictures so we could pick our favorite one. Missy was a great sport. She looked awesome in her business suit.
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ANOTHER FUN FACT
In order to create Alexander's World, I needed to understand legal prostitution. What better way to learn about this topic than to visit the famous Mustang Ranch? I made an appointment, and headed to Sparks, Nevada, supported by my friend, Nancy. We arrived and entered a bar where customers hang out. A prostitute introduced herself, and began what should have been a thirty minute tour. An hour and a half later, we were still talking. I left all judgment at home, and only brought a curious mind. This woman shared so much about herself, and helped me understand the path to prostitution, why it continues, and what happens behind closed doors at the ranch. I incorporated much of what I learned into this novel.
If your book club reads The Foundation, please invite me, and I'll tell you more about this experience.
If your book club reads The Foundation, please invite me, and I'll tell you more about this experience.
Novato Book Club
I had the pleasure of joining these book lovers for a lively discussion about The Foundation. As we worked our way through the book club questions, some insightful personal observations surfaced. I was encouraged to learn about the important work being done in Marin to combat human trafficking, and we all agreed that one person could definitely make a difference.
I appreciated Tommy for hosting the party at her lovely home, and for preparing a delicious lasagna meal. Thanks to Pat, Richard, Tommy, Mary Lou and Joyce, for reading my novel, and for sharing your unique perspective. It's nice to have gained some new Novato friends!
I appreciated Tommy for hosting the party at her lovely home, and for preparing a delicious lasagna meal. Thanks to Pat, Richard, Tommy, Mary Lou and Joyce, for reading my novel, and for sharing your unique perspective. It's nice to have gained some new Novato friends!
Orange County Book Clubs
My dear friend, Debbi, hosted two book signing parties for me at her lovely home. As usual, she planned the events with great flair. She served up Irish food in honor of Tara Collins' heritage, and set a beautiful spring table. Thanks to Dana who cleaned the house and prepared the yummy Bailey's Irish Cream cupcakes. I enjoyed seeing everyone again, and I enjoyed the discussions.
It was especially heartwarming to visit with my high school friends, Debbi, Karen, and Marilyn. We navigated a lot of life together during our formative years: church, sleepovers, boyfriends, choirs, travel, secrets. I am blessed to share their friendship.
