I’ve loved writing since I can remember and have boxes full of stories and ideas for stories to prove it. I was reckless and insecure in my teens. Sometimes, I'd finish a story, decide it wasn't any good, and throw it in the trash. My sister, who was my first fan, loved my stories. Unbeknownst to me, she pulled one of the stories I’d written out of the garbage and kept it for all these years. Recently, she said to me, "Remember the teenage drama you wrote where they went on a ski trip?" Honestly, I could not remember it. Then she said, "I kept it and still have it."
If only I had known about targeting my readers back then!
Some ten years ago, I wrote a novel based on how my parents met and self-published it. I did not promote or market Like Wine. I just wanted to see it in print before my mother passed. (My next post will have an excerpt from it.) Fast forward to today. I consider Elizabeth's Mountain to be my true debut novel. How exciting and mystifying it is to go from concept to publication to marketing. After all these years of doubt and insecurity, I finally took the leap.
Many of you have reached out to me by way of email, social media, or posted reviews for Elizabeth’s Mountain and I want you to know that I’m listening. I hear you and I know you. From words like relatable, realistic, beautiful, engaging, hopeful, captivating, romantic, respectful, deep, heartwarming, inspirational, poignant, and suspenseful … I’m learning what moves my readers. I’ve always been a fan of books that stay with me for a long time or inspire hope in me, which is why I write what I love to read. If my stories and characters don’t fade away as soon as the book gets closed, if they are not so easily forgotten, then I’ve succeeded in reaching some small part of you. And while my stories are emotion-heavy, touching on some serious issues, the aim is for my readers to see something of themselves in the characters, each one a champion in their own story.
I know who you are. You’re the dreamers, the seekers, the romantics. You are my readers.
With love and appreciation,
Lucille
Kirkus Review for Elizabeth's Mountain (3/29/24)
"A compelling slice-of-life story, told from two points of view in two different time periods."
The Book Commentary for Elizabeth's Mountain (4/25/24)
5 Star Review | "…a spellbinding saga that will enchant readers with its richly layered storytelling and timeless themes of love and belonging."
American Historical Romance – BookViral Review for Elizabeth's Mountain (2/21/24)
5 Star Review | "Absorbing, sweet and beautifully written Elizabeth’s Mountain proves a superb debut from Guarino and is unreservedly recommended!"
Literary Titan: Elizabeth's Mountain (1/29/24)
5 Star Review | "Guarino’s exploration of enduring relationships through a lens of historical and contemporary romance, coupled with her well-developed characters, makes this book a noteworthy read for those who are drawn to stories that span different time periods and showcase the complexities of life and love."
Literary Titan: Elizabeth's Mountain (1/26/24)
5 Star Review | "Elizabeth’s Mountain is a testament to the enduring power of love and the beauty of a well-lived life. Its uplifting nature makes it an ideal read for those seeking solace or a touch of optimism. The book concludes on a note of satisfaction, leaving the reader with a sense of fulfillment and joy."
Readers' Favorite: Elizabeth's Mountain (12/08/23)
5 Star Review | "Elizabeth's Mountain by Lucille Guarino is a thoughtful and poignant novel that fulfills the reader's expectations of women's literature." -Readers' Favorite
For the Love of Prologues: 10 Incredible Intros | BookTrib (1/24/24)
"An emotional, heartwarming tale of resilience and hope, Elizabeth’s Mountain will charm and immerse readers in a dual timeline of interweaving romances."
