WINTER HOPES 

Newly divorced mom Lydia is still getting back on her feet, and still reeling from her intense encounter with sexy, sophisticated Sam at a friend’s destination wedding. As they tentatively explore the demands and rewards of long-distance dating, their instant connection evolves against the vibrant backdrops of New York City, Long Island, and Chicago. Lydia begins to trust again – but for her, opening up is difficult, even painful. Sam sees a chance to be happy again in a way he never thought would be possible again. The joy and hope they feel in each other’s arms demands they lay their hearts on the line. Can their new love survive the miles that separate them, and the complexities of nurturing a relationship via email, text, and phone? And when Sam finally meets Lydia’s family, will old resentments and unspoken biases bring them closer together or drive them apart? Full of the passion and tension any newly-joined couple experiences, this story lays the foundation for Lydia’s budding relationship with Sam, sees her through struggles with her speech-delayed son, renews a deep appreciation for the value of loyal friends, and offers hope for several kinds of second chances.