Such Happiness As This

Decorated Coast Guard officer Robyn Landry loved her career while knowing the demands of her job strained her personal life. She figured "happily ever after" would start when she retired from service. Her girlfriend's parting shot during their breakup leaves Robyn determined to build a quiet life by herself and regain equilibrium in the rugged wilds on the Northern California coast.

A relative newcomer to rural Arcata, Grace Warren heads grant coordination for the local college's art department. Renewing her study of the cello and building a social calendar around her beloved arts cements new friendshipsand brings an introduction to the intensely attractive Robyn. When she discovers Robyn's woodworking artistry, they seem perfect for each other and Grace easily envisions a future together.

But the decidedly reserved Robyn chafes under Grace's advice and scrutiny. Why are women always trying to change her? There’s no reason to upend her life yet againexcept for a kiss neither of them can forget.

Laina Villeneuve admits that her real-life courtship would read like a blatant plot manipulation. In the last ten years, she and her wife have been married, had a baby, been legally married and had twins. An English professor and voracious reader, she also has a lifelong love for horses.