The Genesis of the Mad River Romance Series: Sharon’s version

When Judy asked me ever-so-casually if I’d be interested in partnering with her on a romance novel, I didn’t overthink my response. The time was November 2020, which meant we were still mired in the coronavirus pandemic. I certainly wasn’t going anywhere, and my part-time work was fully remote. “Sure,” I said. “Let’s do it.”

And so we did. There have been fits and starts along the way, but after one year of effort, hours of editing and one major draft overhaul, we have the completed manuscript of Love Bridges All. And somehow, through it all, we are still friends. (We are still, right Judy?)

The writing of that one book spawned ideas for two others, and a website that would not only promote the books, but more importantly spotlight the people and places in the Mad River Valley featured in our novels. The hope is that the books will draw people to the website and the website will draw people to the books.

Here are a few examples: In Love Bridges All, there’s a major plot turn on Sunset Ledge, a popular hike in Warren that is tough enough to make you feel you’ve called upon your inner mountaineer with a view rewarding enough to justify the effort. Head on over to MadRiverRomance.com and you’ll find more details on the hike and links to local shops for picnic supplies.

In Love Takes Flight, the sequel to Love Bridges All, much of the action takes place at the Warren-Sugarbush Airport. You can go to the website to learn about this mecca for aviation enthusiasts young and old and can view some great videos of gliders in flight. Should you feel the urge to book a flight lesson for yourself or gift a friend a fall foliage scenic glider ride, these dreams and more can be fulfilled in just a few clicks.

The hope is that the Mad River Romance books will encourage tourism to the Valley and buttress the local economy. To keep the virtuous cycle going, profits from the Mad River Romance book sales directly support local non-profits.

Happy reading!