Joni Jones’ mind maybe leaving her, but she has lived a life filled with art, passion and fierce determination that her daughters knew nothing about, until now. Ellen, Joni’s oldest daughter who lives in Northern Virginia, is stuck in a unfulfilling career and a failing marriage. Ellen’s life is completely disrupted by circumstances out of her control, and she finds herself caring for Joni. Struggles with Joni’s Alzheimer’s lead both women to an unveiling of passionate love, unexpected sacrifice and compassion.
In this novel of forever love and fate, Joni and Ellen’s lives intertwine to create a life-long legacy.
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The Writing of the NOVEL
This novel is dedicated to my grandmother, Maude. I never knew her. Maude died when my mother was five. So, the opening scene came to me as a vision of what Maude would have been like with my mother. And well, then my characters took me on a ride.
When writers write, there are two camps. Those that plot and the pantzers. I belong to the “pantzers” camp, which means by the seat of your pants. Neither way is right or wrong.
I really don’t have a set plot when I go into a novel. I have a loose idea of what challenges may be ahead for my characters. I did a lot of research on Chinese brush painting. I was lucky enough to find an expert in my area. Also, I learned about our history. How a simple gesture can make a huge difference between two countries. I incorporated a peace-inspiring, true event into this story and added a fictional member of American Ping Pong team.
I also researched Alzheimer’s. I wanted Joni to be the best representation I could make of a person going through this disease.
I learned so much from Joni and Ellen. I loved writing this story, I hope you enjoy it!