Aphrodite's Complex

You’d think that someone named after the Greek goddess of love would have no trouble with romance—but you’d be wrong. Klutzy, quirky, 39-year-old Aphrodite Aldo seems to simultaneously attract and repel prospective suitors. Personal trainer Luke is mad for Aphrodite, and she certainly finds his sculpted good looks irresistible. Unfortunately, Luke’s Adonis-like features attract lots of love-struck ladies—and he loves them all. While Aphrodite tries to determine whether physical attraction equals love, her job as a reporter sends her falling headfirst (literally) into the arms of Rory Finn, an Irish novelist. One stalker ex-girlfriend , a barroom brawl, and a marriage proposal later, Aphrodite is convinced she’s found her soul mate—but then Rory abandons her and leaves for Ireland. Convinced she’s destined to continue her family’s legacy of broken hearts, Aphrodite grabs her grandmother’s wedding dress and catches the next plane to Belfast, determined to find Rory. Irish legends, a supposedly cursed box, and a startling connection between their great-grandparents reunite Rory and Aphrodite; but Rory chooses to remain in Ireland. Devastated, Aphrodite returns home alone. Is she fated never to find true love?

My work has appeared in ONE Magazine, West-Metro sports, and Performer's Edge. A mortgage lender by day and freelance writer by night, I have been mentored by published author Terri Valentine, also a terrific Writer's Digest instructor. Also mentored by International news correspondent and writer, Francine Brevetti, who inspired me to get moving and never give up. Local, successful writer's like Diane Greenwood Muir have been invaluable throughout the slightly exhausting process of author, publisher, and marketer.