November 29 - from Liz
That would be great (about meeting in January J) that may be the same weekend of the San Diego marathon. I might do it.
Keep in touch…we’ll make January happen.
Liz
Then Liz got a job interview in Vermont and couldn't make it to California. I asked her what she thought about trying to get a copy of the novel into the hands of Burton Cummings- a famous characters in the book.
December 16 - from Liz
Hi,
As far as Burton reviewing, I say go for it! It gives him press too J It made him look like a pretty nice guy, and obviously romantic, except a little too ego driven (but he was probably in his 20’s, so excusable!). I mean, think about it, a really famous guy obviously liked you a lot and you made a choice. He seemed hurt and wrote a beautiful song. Very sweet. And, who knows where his review will take you. I haven’t had time to read more (except I did see what happened to the nasty brothers- point for crazy Dave! ;).
December 17 - to Liz
Ok, I will run it by my editor and see what she thinks.
M
December 27 - from Liz
Hi – I love the book! I haven’t been able to finish because it is on a kindle reader and I have to connect to the internet to read it. The holidays and life have been crazy. But, yesterday in the few minutes I had, I read through Bradley. I cried. Literally. Then the next chapter with the Dr. Suess quote killed me. Of course, I emailed my boyfriend and said, no matter what, that won’t happen to us. Sigh. Your writing is beautiful. I’m sorry I haven’t finished, but we are dog sitting and staying at another house. Literally, I am reading in between all the holiday events.
So, I am only a little over halfway done, but I love it, love it!! I should be done this week. I swear, if I had a hard copy, I would’ve finished it in a day. I am not adept at the kindle stuff!
I’ll be in touch soon. Hope your holidays are going well too J
Take care,
Liz
December 27 - to Liz
Oh thank god. I thought you had lost interest and I was wondering which chapter caused that- my biggest fear.
A note about Bradley- when I finished the book earlier this year, I called his number in Boothbay. When he answered the phone, I played with him for a minute before he realized it was me. It was wonderful to hear his voice and to laugh with him. He married shortly after I left and has a family with three kids and still adores his wife. He builds wooden boats and fishes for tuna with his son. He asked me to send him a copy of the book but, I don't think that is a good idea. Crazy, eh?
And guess what, I now have a chance to get the novel into Burton's hands through a mutual friend. My goal is to lure him into getting involved in making it into a movie with him in charge of the soundtrack. Hey, I can dream big, right? I thought it would be fun to include a CD of all the music from the 70's that is in the book- just to tempt him more.
I also have to write him a small letter. This will likely be a weekend project in itself!
I hope he isn't too pissed at my saying he had a rather large ego back then. Hopefully the praise that the chapter is filled with will appease him.
I never thought that publishing this thing would bring all these people into or back into my life. Thank you for making the experience of having a complete stranger read the book and communicate directly. You have no idea how much that means to me.
So, internet friend, have a wonderful New Year and I hope we can meet up in that year.
Warm Regards,
Marni
December 27 - from Liz
I just made it through your Man of War experience and of almost being left behind. Marni – I love this book!! I hate that I can only read at odd times due to the kindle, but it’s also the holidays, so the kids are getting extra attention as we lounge and watch movies too.
I think it would be good to send the book to Bradley. It was years ago. Honestly, think about how many times, when people are young, that they feel that a moment can mean a lifetime. You both moved in your different directions because of life and priorities. And, I’m sure it would be nice to hear that an amazing woman cared about him. He is happy in his own life and so are you. I’m sure it would be an honour to read of himself in that way. I’m sure his wife would understand. You can also send a copy with a letter of explanation.
You had told me about Burton and getting the book to him. Another good idea. You could use the small letter to explain your perceptions of him at a young age. I often think that singer/songwriter/poets can only express tenderness in writing, so he may have come across as egotistical, but he was also young and may have had difficulty in presenting his “true self”.
I have to say that your writing is fantastic. It is not just a great story. Your writing is sophisticated and subtle in many ways. It is a “woman coming of age” story. I’m, frankly, amazed at everything you were able to learn and how tough you were. I don’t know if I could’ve done it. I can’t wait to keep reading. I also love every single quote that you put at the beginning of chapters. Absolutely perfect.
Talk soon,
Liz
December 30 - from Liz
I had this poetic idea of just saying:
"I’m so glad I met you."
But, I’m too gushy and can’t leave it at that. Marni – the story is so wonderful! I’m crying as I write this. I’m broken hearted, but happy. I think adding the pictures is perfect. Seeing that picture of David really made that ending (and of course you and Mary Martha too). I do wonder, what did Russ think!?!? Was he joking? Did someone tell him what he told you about David, and he believed it?
I want to get to a point where I do offer constructive criticism that may be helpful, but right now, all I can say is I love the story. Maybe that’s enough. I am a stranger. Not biased in anyway. I’m so glad I emailed about the property in Panama!! Ha ha! I will market to as many people I know. There is a group of people here in the small town I live in that I didn’t think about before. They are a good group to send to (artists, writers, some have connections) and, of course, the Burton angle should be pursued ;)
I also want to say that you are an amazing strong woman who writes magnificently. I already said this, but it is a beautiful story. Thank you J
I’ll be in touch soon.
Liz
December 31 - to Liz
Well, I read this over a few times then went to bed with a big smile on my face! Thank you again. Can't wait to read your review!
I started a blog this morning but am new to this world and really bad at it so far. Thank goodness for time.
The best part about starting the blog was that I got to put author after my name!
Enjoy your New Year's Eve day.
Big Hug,
Marni
Liz's Review on Amazon
5.0 out of 5 stars Not only is this book a beautifully written tale of exciting adventure, January 3, 2015
This review is from: Because We Could: An Unauthorized Love Story (Kindle Edition)
I did not want this story to end. Not only is this book a beautifully written tale of exciting adventure, it touches on the complexity of relationships in a sophisticated and romantic way. Through the telling of her tale, Marni not only describes her escapades and romances, but she guides the reader through her journey of self-discovery- A wonderful combination for a great read. I know nothing of life at sea, and neither did Marni, but she had the drive to take the risk and learned it all.
Her writing is both subtle and poignant; the strength and beauty of her characters and their tales is mesmerizing. This book will have you laughing and crying many times.
*****************
Update on Burton (today)- I mailed a copy of my book to the friend that will put it in Burton's hands. I am so nervous! What if he is pissed. What if he denies the source of "Your Backyard"? What if he calls his lawyer? Ahhhhhh!!!!! Or, what if he loves it and.....
Update on Bradley- (today) Sent him a book last week and called him last night. He said that he tore the wrapping off and went straight to the chapter on Boothbay. We both wished we could turn back time- just for a few days. He invited me to visit him and to meet his family. I just might do that.
Androgyny
