It’s spring, and Allison Connelly has it all – pretty, popular and smart. With a summer job teaching tennis and starting Harvard Law School in the fall, Allison plans on a successful law career, marriage and kids – and dreams of becoming a Supreme Court Justice.
When relentless headaches drive her to her doctor, Allison receives a terrifying diagnosis that destroys her plans and imperils her life. Devastated, Allison struggles to accept her
shattered dreams and uncertain future. One night, she happens into a small-town pub and, on a whim, takes a job singing, finding solace and a measure of peace in her music. She settles in the town, and from that small beginning finds love, a new life and a new reason for living.
Excerpt
Dean Richardson went to the podium, looked back at Allison, and smiled. “It is now my great pleasure and privilege to introduce Allison Connelly to give the Valedictory Address. Allison has made an extraordinary contribution to our school. Not only has she achieved the highest academic standing in her graduating class, but she captained the tennis team – which won the Northeastern Intercollegiate Championship – and was on both the swim and debating teams. Rumor has it that she also sings occasionally at one of the local pubs. I really don’t know when she found time to study. It had been my hope that Allison would stay at BHU and continue with our MBA program, but... I am delighted to announce that she has been accepted into Harvard Law School. While I’m very sorry to lose her, Allison is the first BHU grad to be accepted into HLS in almost a decade and I’m sure you will all share my pride in her achievement. Allison.”
There was a burst of applause. Prepared to stand and approach the podium, she again felt a searing pain over her left eye. She remained seated and again breathed deeply, fighting the pain.
“Allison,” the dean prompted again.
To Allison’s great relief, the pain dissipated. She stood, walked confidently to the podium, and looked out at her classmates and others in the auditorium.
Allison paused and the audience waited expectantly, anticipating the usual salutation acknowledging students, friends and families, alumni, the dean, and the faculty.
“Hi Guys,” Allison began with a smile.
Interview
Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?
Building off a positive reaction (both in reviews and sales) to my first book – The Librarian, I wanted to try something different – more thoughtful, emotive and where the character development really drives the storyline. In considering possible plots, the concept of a talented young woman, Allison, struck down in the prime of life with a terminal disease, seemed to provide a good foundation for pursuing these objectives. While it would have been easier to try another in the same genre that would appeal to the same audience, I hope readers are able to connect with Allison’s character and reflect on what they would do if faced with a terminal diagnosis.
What is your favorite scene in the book?
Unfortunately, describing my two favorites (one being the final scene in the book) would create spoilers. One of the other scenes I like is when Allison receives her diagnosis and slowly realizes she’s being told she’s going to die. Another is when Allison, in reflecting on her prognosis for a steady decline in cognitive ability, physical capability and an increase in pain (manageable with opiates), stands on a cliff overlooking the ocean during a violent storm contemplating jumping.
What exciting story are you working on next?
I just started my third novel, tentatively titled ‘Ayla’s Arc. It is about a young Syrian woman who is orphaned during the recent Syrian civil war and who goes to work for the CIA in the Middle East, first as an interpreter, then as a spy and ultimately as an assassin. While she becomes one of the most successful and prolific assassins on the CIA payroll, she realizes she keep up that kind of life and profession forever. She eventually gives it up and moves to New York to pursue a legal career but still finds the occasional need to fall back on her old skills.
What are four things you can’t live without?
Life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness and good scotch.
Favorite place to read?
It varies, but at my place in Florida, I enjoy reading both inside and outside. I’m also usually on a couch – whether I’m reading or writing.
Do you listen to music when you're writing?
Occasionally, and when I do it’s usually movie sound tracks. The score from Wonder Woman is great.
Thanks...
Philip Wilson is a retired financial executive who spends winters in Florida and summers sailing on the Great Lakes in his 32-foot sailboat. Songs for Lucy is his second book. His first, The Librarian, was rated one of the best reviewed books of 2017 by IndieReader and featured in the Huffington Post. Learn more at www.philipmwilson.com.
Links:
Website: www.philipmwilson.com
Facebook: @authorphilipwilson
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Giveaway
Philip Wilson will be awarding a signed paperback copy of the book to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
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