On June 9th, 2017, I opened a poll to ask everyone to choose what I should write as my second novel — you can read this post here. Almost one year later, the novel is ready to be published. When I first shared an overview of the story, I had a title in mind but was never certain about my decision. Over the last few months, I began discussing it with the twelve people who’ve either helped beta read, market, or keep me sane while writing this book. The overwhelming answer was to keep the title as Father Figure. I came up with a list of 8 other options and took them to the publisher and editor. In the end, they all agreed it is best called Father Figure. And so, knowing this was my first choice, and everyone loves it, we’ve opted to keep the title as Father Figure. My runner-up was ‘Peace by Piece’ as it’s a theme highly integrated into many chapters. Finding peace by discovering each piece of the puzzle… the play on words felt incredibly strong to me.
In many ways, when it comes to revealing a new title, this feels like a tiny pop as opposed to something more grand. At the same time, that’s me… a bit quiet and more comfortable in the background. But as a small token of my appreciation, you can read a couple pages from the book in this newly added menu item on my blog. It’s only a couple, and I will share another full chapter in the coming weeks… a teaser to give you a sense of what it will be like when you finally get the words in your hands!
Over the next few weeks, I will be revealing fun facts and key news about its upcoming release. Stay tuned to learn things like:
- Book Cover Big Reveal
- Availability of ARCs (Advanced Reader Copies)
- Details on How You Can Participate in the Initial Release
- Blog Tour Plans
- Publication / Release Date in May 2018
If you are interested in being part of the release, please feel free to email me at jamesjcudney4@gmail.com. I look forward to revealing all the details and sharing this book with everyone.
***
Book Description
Between the fast-paced New York City, a rural Mississippi town, and a charming Pennsylvania college campus filled with secrets, two young girls learn the consequences of growing up too quickly. Struggling to survive in a claustrophobic, unforgiving world, they embark on a journey to overcome all the pain, disappointment, and horror of their experiences.
Amalia Graeme, abused by her mother for most of her life, longs to escape her desolate hometown, connect with others, and fall in love. Contemplating an impending loss of innocence and conflicting feelings between her boyfriend and the dangerous attraction she’s developed for an older man, Amalia suffers devastating, life-altering tragedies. No matter where she turns, someone or something always steals her hope of finding happiness, protection, and love.
Brianna Porter, a sassy yet angst-ridden teenager raised in New York City, yearns to determine her life’s true purpose, conquer her fear of abandonment, and interpret an intimidating desire for her best friend, Shanelle. All the confusion stems from desperately needing to find the father whom her mother refuses to reveal, but an unexpected discovery of a journal leads Brianna to a shocking revelation about her missing parent. Unfortunately, by casting the net to find him, she’s unleashed a tragic history that was meant to stay buried and might now completely change everyone’s futures.
Through alternating chapters set two decades apart, each girl’s plight unfolds revealing the parallels between their lives and the unavoidable collision that is bound to happen. In an emotional story filled with mystery, romance, and suspense, fate intervenes forcing someone to make a dreadful decision that will leave permanent scars.
About the Author
James is my given name, but most folks call me Jay. I live in New York City, grew up on Long Island, and graduated from Moravian College with a degree in English literature. I spent fifteen years building a technology career in the retail, sports, media, and entertainment industries. I enjoyed my job, but a passion for books and stories had been missing for far too long. I’m a voracious reader in my favorite genres (thriller, suspense, contemporary, mystery, and historical fiction), as books transport me to a different world where I can immerse myself in so many fantastic cultures and places. I’m an avid genealogist who hopes to visit all the German, Scottish, Irish, and British villages my ancestors emigrated from in the 18th and 19th centuries. I write a daily blog and publish book reviews on everything I read at ThisIsMyTruthNow via WordPress.
Writing has been a part of my life as much as my heart, my mind, and my body. I decided to pursue my passion by dusting off the creativity inside my head and drafting outlines for several novels. I quickly realized I was back in my element growing happier and more excited with life each day. When I completed the first book, Watching Glass Shatter, I knew I’d stumbled upon my passion again, suddenly dreaming up characters, plots, and settings all day long. I chose my second novel, Father Figure, through a poll on my blog where I let everyone vote for their favorite plot and character summaries. My goal in writing is to connect with readers who want to be part of great stories and who enjoy interacting with authors. To get a strong picture of who I am, check out my author website or my blog where the 365 Daily Challenge reveals something about my personality every day. It’s full of humor and eccentricity, sharing connections with everyone I follow—all in the hope of building a network of friends across the world.
List of Books & Blog
Father Figure (2018)
Websites & Blog
Social Media Links
At the moment I am in college to get my Masters in HRM….I also finally found a great job…but as an avid reader I hope to read more this year for pleasure. My interests are in what you write. Jackie
That’s great news, I’m so happy for you!!!!
Thanks so much