Love is All - Book Launch!

Beautiful sign outside the Durham Student Center.

A Cozy, Joy-Filled Space

Surrounded by a supportive crowd and plenty of chocolate, Love is All was launched in a cozy, love-filled setting. On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, we gathered in the Margre H

Durham Student Center Quiet Lounge at 4:30 p.m. Beautiful signage guided friends and colleagues from the parking lot to the venue.

All set up and ready to go!

Setting the Stage

Inside, the signing table was placed in front of the Quiet Lounge, a welcoming space with comfortable chairs, couches, and tables facing a beautiful fireplace. The sound technician was ready and walked us through how to use microphones. Everything was perfectly arranged for the evening.

A Sweet Theme

The refreshment theme was, of course, chocolate. Ghirardelli chocolates took center stage, joined by trays of brownies, dark chocolate–dipped pretzels, and assorted wrapped treats. To send guests home with a little extra sweetness, I put together tiny brown boxes filled with chocolates for the road. Why don't I have a photo? My husband was taking pictures and the chocolate display was not on his photography menu!

Practice reading while waiting for guests.

Reuniting with Friends and Colleagues

As guests began arriving, my nerves melted into joy at seeing familiar faces, some I had not seen in years. We caught up on grandchildren, health updates, and recent travels, each conversation peppered with generous congratulations.

Q&A after reading

The Reading and Q&A

Soon, it was time to begin. My friend Holly opened with an introduction that touched my heart. I followed with a short excerpt from the novel, then Holly asked a few thoughtful questions before inviting everyone to join in. Their warmth and enthusiasm made the afternoon unforgettable. What I felt went beyond energy. It was love, support, and genuine joy in sharing that my dream had come true. The turnout was wonderful, and it filled the room with a sense of celebration I will always treasure.

Signing Copies

A line soon formed at the signing table. I loved signing each and every copy, personalized the inscriptions, and soaking in the moment. It still has not yet sunk in that I am a published author.

Support from Afar

Leigh, my publisher at Old Fort Press, had planned to fly in from Savannah but was kept away by a family emergency.  Even so, she sent a beautiful bouquet of flowers and heartfelt texts that made me feel her presence from miles away. It reminded me how truly fortunate I am to share this journey with such a caring partner.

Thank you! Enjoy reading...ad a little chocolate too!

A Heartfelt Thank You

·      To President Hawkins and her events team for their warm welcome and support.

·      To Holly for stepping in on short notice and doing a fantastic job.

·      To Rod, Janna, and Ian, my family, for steady encouragement and love throughout every chapter of my life.

·      To everyone who attended, thank you for being there, listening, and celebrating this milestone with me.

Reflections After a Successful Launch

I am truly blessed and bursting with gratitude. The launch was everything I had hoped for and more. It became a celebration of friendship, family, and the story that brought us all together. Love is All…it’s really true.