Free Between Land and Sea by Joanne Guidoccio Page A

the manuscript thoughtfully. “You could self-publish, you know. I don’t mind helping you with that. I’ve had some experience.”
    “No! I want it done the traditional way.” She had no intention of schlepping her book from city to city across the country, sending out press releases, and contacting bookstores. She didn’t have time for all of that.
    Graham raised his eyebrows. “How about that coffee?” He sat down and started reading the manuscript.
    Barbara went into the small kitchen and started making coffee. She cut two pieces of tiramisù and arranged the muffins on a separate plate. Occasionally, she glanced over at Graham. He did not look up at all.
    She brought the sweets over and arranged the coffee cups and dessert plates on the table. Graham looked up and smiled. “Everything smells delicious, Bella.” He held up the manuscript. “This is good. Better than good. I think you’ve got a real winner here.”
    Barbara relaxed as she sat down. She hadn’t realized just how worried she had been about the book. She regretted her curt remarks to Graham from a few minutes ago. “I’m sorry about what I said earlier. I know you want to help, but I’m not comfortable with self-publishing.” She paused and then continued, “You said you had some experience with publishing. Have you written any books?”
    “It’s OK, Bella. I remember what it was like with my first book. It’s your baby, and you don’t want anything or anyone to hurt it in any way.”
    “Your first book? How many have you written?”
    “I’ve got five books out there. But they are more illustrations and photographs than actual writing.” He shook his head. “And none of them ever made the New York Times Bestsellers list.”
    “I’d like to read them.”
    “I think you might find them boring. My books appeal mainly to art teachers and students. Lots of technique and other dry stuff.”
    “Even so, I’d like to see how the books were put together. It might give me some ideas for my own book.”
    “If you’re going the traditional route, you won’t have any say in the layout and packaging.”
    “But I won’t have to worry about the marketing and distribution. I won’t have to lug my books across the country when I do book readings. I’m new to this country and the writing world. I don’t have any connections.”
    “I said I could help you with that, Bella. My first three books were published traditionally. I wasn’t too thrilled with some of the publishing houses. The editors wanted to make too many changes to my artwork, so that’s why I took control and self-published the last two.”
    Barbara did not want to continue this discussion. She had a lead with an agent in Chicago, and she was looking forward to visiting with Gillian. “We’ll see how it goes with Gillian. If her agent can’t find a publisher for the book, I’ll reconsider your offer.”
    “Fair enough for now.” Graham put down the pages he was reading and picked up a muffin. He bit into the soft dough. “This is the best chocolate chip muffin I’ve ever tasted.” He joked, “Your next book should be a cookbook.”
    Barbara looked up in surprise. He was already talking about the next book. That was definitely a good sign. But she couldn’t and wouldn’t consider starting another book until this one was accepted by a publisher.
    Graham moved closer. “Don’t look so scared. I was just joking. You don’t have to start another book until you’re ready.” He looked at the pile of papers on the table. “You’ll have your hands full for a while with this one. Why don’t you take a few days off from work? I’m sure Janice won’t mind.”
    “I can’t do that, especially now. I’m taking over Carolyn’s job and—”
    “Whoa! When did that happen? I’ve only been away for a couple of days.”
    Barbara explained the progression of events at ReCareering .
    “Be careful, Barbara. There have been so many changes in your life. You don’t want