Reclaiming Tomorrow
by Jade Winters
Released: Sep 05, 2023
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Why this book and why now?
I have a large family, with five siblings, and over the past few months, our family dynamics have led to conflict and unnecessary drama when a family member became ill. ‘Reclaiming Tomorrow’ is centred around a dysfunctional family, and I felt now was the right time to write it. Not only because the story is relatable to me, but also as a form of catharsis. Family is such a big part of our lives; I find delving into family relationships and how it shapes us fascinating.
What is a significant way your book has changed since either the first draft or the way you thought it would turn out when you first had the inspiration?
The first draft involved a murder taking place, but I changed my mind once I started writing it. Romance novels are all about love, connection, and those heart-fluttering moments — not to mention a happy ending. So, having a main character murdered didn’t seem very fitting.
Would you and your main character(s) get along?
Yes, we would. Sasha’s aspirations of travelling the world are overshadowed by ties to her dysfunctional family and the responsibility she feels for her baby sister. It means that she may never fulfill her dreams. I’d get along with her because I totally understand the dynamics and her pull to put her family first, even if it is detrimental to herself. We both let our emotions, rather than logic, rule our heads.
What’s your main character(s)’s favorite book and why?
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. It resonates with her as she explores her own identity and life’s purpose.
One of your main characters is planning a romantic night. Tell us about it.
Hailey had been secretly planning a surprise for Sasha’s birthday for weeks. With Sasha’s mother always at home, working on her new novel, and Sasha’s responsibility for her baby sister, Chloe, they rarely had any time alone with each other.
‘Where’re we going?’ Sasha asked once they were seated in Hailey’s car.
‘You’ll see.’
The summer night was clear and warm as Sasha and Hailey cruised along the winding country lanes. The air felt comfortably mild, with the car’s windows down, allowing the gentle breeze to brush against their skin. An hour later, Hailey led Sasha to a secluded spot in the countryside, away from the city lights. She laid a blanket on the ground and sat down, patting the empty space beside her.
‘This is amazing, Hailey,’ Sasha said.
Sasha planted a kiss on Hailey’s lips before lying on her back, her head resting on Hailey’s lap as she gazed up at the stars.
‘I’ve got something special for you,’ Hailey said.
She handed Sasha her phone, which had a stargazing app open.
Sasha’s eyes widened as she saw a star, surrounded by a heart-shaped constellation through the phone’s screen.
‘I named that star “Sasha’s Heart,”’ Hailey said. ‘So every time you look up at the night’s sky, know that our love will always be as bright as that star.’
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
The Literary Libation
Ingredients:
Gin
Elderflower liqueur
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
A splash of sparkling water
It’s sophisticated and simple making Sasha feel like she’s sipping on something special, even as a student on a budget.
What song does your character put on to start your book launch party?
‘What a feeling’ Irene Cara. Because Sasha knows what it feels like to reach the finish line against all odds.
