It’s been a few months since my last blog, so I’ll re-introduce myself. I’m from Melbourne, Australia, and I’ve been writing contemporary romance since I was fifteen, but I didn’t start my journey as a self-published author until 2021. I love writing, reading, and listening to steamy romance novels, watching romantic movies… basically, I’m a romantic at heart. But romance or not, I love a great story in any format. I love other things too. Walking, yoga, visiting the library (even though I own a ton of books), coffee dates with friends and family, pretty notebooks, being organized, and gardening when I’m in the mood. Yep, it’s an eclectic mix.

I work part-time as an Accounts Assistant for a hospitality venue, and when I’m locked away in a little “safe” room to do the banking, I listen to audiobooks. It’s the best part about my job.

I thought I’d share what’s going on in my world and what’s on the list for 2024.

Australian weather:

While most of you are experiencing the cold, we’re in the middle of summer but right now, it’s not much of one. The eastern states, including where I am, have had thunderstorms and floods. It’s bizarre considering, we were told it would be a dry, hot season.

Australian Dorothea Mackellar’s poem My Country captures Australia perfectly when she wrote the line, “Of drought and flooding rains.” Like other things, it’s a poem I took for granted as a kid but can truly appreciate as an adult.

What I’m currently reading:

Dirty Thirty by Janet Evanovich. Stephanie Plum has been one of my favorite characters for the longest time, and I never tire of her antics. It’s a laugh-out-loud adventure. And I love the banter between her and Joe Morelli. Oh, and the banter between her and Ranger.

What I’m listening to:

Nightwork by Nora Roberts. I’ve read/listened to her books for as long as I can remember. One of the reasons is because my Aunty was a huge fan, and I was bequeathed all of her books after she passed. I’m absolutely loving this story about a teenage boy who is doing what he can to support his mother while she battles cancer. His journey continues into adulthood.

Clear your shelf challenge:

I’m determined to read more this year and came across this reading challenge on Instagram. Basically, you need to read twelve books from January to March that are currently on your shelves or in your kindle and fit the selected categories. I like the manageable timeframe and that it encourages you to read what you already own. I find myself wavering with those yearlong challenges.

What I’m working on:

The CEO – book 4 in the 5 Shades of Brothers Browne series. I started working on this in 2022 when I thought Shane’s story would be second in the series but two of his younger brothers pushed ahead of him, as younger brothers tend to do. Now it’s his turn to fall in love.

Shane Browne, the CEO of Browne Real Estate is far too busy to be tied down. Sure, he’s had companions but the idea of love has never been on his list of goals.

Tycoon Marco Zampatti is selling his Melbourne hotel and has asked both Browne Real Estate and Matthews Realty to submit proposals for the job.

Shane’s biggest rival has a daughter. A woman he shared one night with a month ago and now it’s Addie who he’s competing against. Addie who is getting under his skin and softening his competitiveness.

Will Shane’s growing feelings for Harry’s daughter have him mixing business with pleasure?

What’s new in 2024:

I’ve decided to give this year a theme – ADVENTURE.

The hubby and I are getting a new car and have a few getaways planned for the year which is always exciting.

Also, in the spirit of romance and adventure, we’re going to have A year of dates. Let me explain. I discovered this online. It’s a cute little box full of envelopes, you pull out one a week and whatever is inside, you do. Simple. There are also five blank envelopes so you can write anything you want. So far, we’ve got up to watch the sunrise, we’ve gone on a coffee date and this week’s card will have us going to a local market.

And I’m beginning to learn golf. Yes, golf! My hubby loves to play when he can, and I’ve always wanted to give it a go. Currently, I’m just practicing in the backyard with a net we bought but I have hopes to one day step foot on a golf course. Apparently, my technique is pretty good.

Yes, there’s a lot of adventures planned for 2024 and I’ll be sure to keep you posted.

Do you have any holidays planned or new things happening this year? Any challenges you’re setting for yourself? Is there anything else you’d like to know about me or Australia? Be sure to put them in the comments or feel free to contact me on my socials.

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Mister Tradie is 99cents Amazon & KU
Books 1-3 in the 5 Shades of Brothers Browne series bundle $2.96 Amazon & KU

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