Hi everyone! Yes, we debuted a gorgeous cover last month for my fifth novel, Morning Glory, which is out on November 26! But, some of the thoughtful folks at Penguin who have an excellent eye for these things felt the cover needed to be a bit improved. The thinking was that it needed to exude a more mysterious and memorable vibe, one that was a bit less busy. While I did love the old cover, I think I adore this one even more. The blue-green is so mysterious, and I love the warm glow from the houseboats on the lake. The gold type is also just perfect. As I told my editor, it feels like a Maeve Binchy novel, and you all know how much I love Maeve! At the moment, you'll see the old cover on retailer sites (it takes a bit of time to get new covers uploaded), but regardless, I'd love it if you'd pre-order your copy when you get a chance. It's available for pre-order on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Powell's. Hope you like this new cover (and the story!) as much as I do!

Have you downloaded your copy?

How cute is this Miami book club's party for THE BUNGALOW (their April book pick!). I loved how some wore sarongs (even a nurse's outfit!) and that they had umbrella cocktails on the table. They were also lovely to talk to---I called in to say hi!

I'm very excited about this beautiful, 4-star review of The Last Camellia in RT Book Reviews' June issue! Have you pre-ordered your copy yet? Just a reminder: You can get a signed copy by ordering here.

I have an essay in the July issue of O, The Oprah Magazine. They need a new photo, so my husband snapped these in our backyard yesterday. The four above are the ones I hate the least. :) Which would you choose for the magazine? Help!

Have you liked my Facebook page yet? If not, head over and you could win the world's first signed copy of THE LAST CAMELLIA to read before its publication date!

Look at these beauties that I found in my Seattle lawn (amongst the weeds---we don't use any chemicals in our lawn, so we get all kinds of surprises!) Ever since writing The Violets of March, I love discovering violets in unusual places. These friendly little violets absolutely brightened my day, especially after the complete and utter sadness yesterday (love to you, Boston). And, my sweet author friend Sarah McCoy was just mentioning how flowers cheer her (as they do me). So, violets for you, Sarah, and to everyone who needs them.

Friends, I am so excited to tell you about a really fun and unique campaign that my publisher, Penguin/Plume, is launching with the wonderful independent bookstore Third Place Books: Order The Last Camellia through Third Place, via this link, and not only will you get the book on or before publication day (May 28!), but you'll also get a signed copy (and if you like, personalized too)! This is a fabulous way to support a terrific independent bookstore that I love. Also, signed books make wonderful gifts (think, end-of-school gifts for teachers, just-because gifts for girlfriends, book club pals, moms, aunts, sisters and mother-in-laws). I'll be stopping into Third Place next month to sign the big batch of pre-ordered books, and I'll also be personalizing them for people who are ordering them for gifts (think: a note from me to the giftee). Orders are open to anyone in the U.S. and around the world. So this is a great opportunity to get a signed book if you won't be able to come to one of my events in the future. Again, here's the link to place your order. If you'd like to learn more about The Last Camellia, have a peek at the book trailer! I can't wait to sign your book!

I just saw the cover for the Turkish edition of The Bungalow, which is called YAMUR SONRASI, translated: "After the Rain." So fun! It will be published soon in Turkey. After the amazing job they did on the Turkish edition of The Violets of March, I cannot wait!