Seven Days of “Behind the Scenes” and a Giveaway – Day Two

Location, location, location. We hear this a lot when referring to real estate, but it’s also important when creating a story. In almost every story (novel, novelette) I’ve written, the setting is Orange County, California, where I live. (Carmen’s Journey of Courage moves from the OC to Mexico City.)

Southern California is a beautiful place with a ton of geographical variety. Mountains, valleys, deserts, and, of course, beaches. The gorgeous sand and surf of Orange County is my favorite.

For The Fragrance of Violets, I chose a fictional luxury beach resort as the setting for Teagan to work in. She’s a catering and sales manager, assisting clients in hosting events such as Nason’s son’s wedding.

The fictional Princessa del Mar is based on several real-life resorts: The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, the Casa Del Mar Santa Monica, Montage Laguna Beach, and The Resort at Pelican Hill Newport Beach. These are truly beautiful places. They are all right on the beach, and too expensive for me to even walk around in!

But what fun for Fiona to work at the Princessa del Mar and, as an employee, have access to its beach where Teagan loves to run.

Fiona also lives nearby in a small apartment she shares with her best friend, Lottie. Living nearby, despite the struggle to pay the rent even with a roommate, means she can enjoy the vistas and walk to work.

Living on the coast means she also can take advantage of the myriad of seaside restaurants, like when she has a date with her new friend Trevor.

My favorite part of any beach is looking out over the ocean as the sun or moon glint on the expanse, listening to the whispering of the waves, and watching them roll in.

Do you like the beach? What is your favorite part?

You can pre-order before May 17 and receive bonus material. https://www.celebratelitpublishing.com/posts/book/the-fragrance-of-violets/

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