Bethany O’Neill wants to fall in love. The problem is, she never gets it right. Or maybe she does, just with the most inconvenient of guys.
A blind date turns out to be with one of her best friend’s brothers, and the sparks are there (they always have been, let’s be honest), but she can’t fall for him. Cody’s off limits because he’s younger, he’s Zoe’s brother, and because, well, those two reasons should be more than enough.
While Beth has to deal with a possible promotion and a change in family dynamics, plus a past issue that she’s kept to herself for a long time, she finds herself connecting with Cody in ways she never has before, and that only scares her more. But she knows she has to take a leap of faith to find her happiness. The question is, is Cody the right guy?
At least, no matter what she’s facing, Beth will have her friends to turn to.
How did you come up with the idea for the story?
(This answer is for all four books, so yes, you’ll just read the same thing four times if you’re interested.) I can’t remember the exact moment or idea, but I know it started in 2019 in London, when I went to a bookstore with a friend (she’s not into books, she was there for me). Not long after, the Saturday lunch scene appeared in my mind, and after a few weeks, I got to see the four friends in a very distinct way. And then, plots popped up as well as secondary characters, and I got to writing.
Which is your favorite character? Why?
I can’t choose anyone but Beth—even if Cassie’s pretty great, too. Not just because she finally accepts the spotlight and she faces certain fears, but also because she’s just so kind. And we could definitely do with more kindness in the world.
Would you change anything in the novel?
I like the balance between dates and Beth’s present, but if I could, I’d maybe add a few more memories with her family and how they connect to what’s happening. But, overall, it’s not a big regret.
How would you sum up the book in a sentence?
Beth’s in love with Love, but will she really give it a chance?
I should be more strategic, like Lady Macbeth.
Minus the scheming, murdering and madness, that is.
