30 Comments
User's avatar
Faye Cagle's avatar

Does art imitate life or life imitate art? Your dog's behavior reminds me of the meet cute in Summer Romance. I met you this past summer on your book tour and I would certainly want to be your friend, especially now that I know you will never invite me to a holiday cookie party (because I'll most likely bring store bought cookies purchased at the last minute). I was charmed to find your newsletter in my inbox today. I love when authors recommend their favorite authors. I can't wait for the upcoming book.

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Thank you Faye!! And seriously, no one has time for that cookie party

Expand full comment
Jen's avatar

I'm really excited for Sophie Cousens' new book, too! That picture of the two of you is great, and now I covet her dress.

As for making new friends--best of luck thawing the dog walking ladies, they will be lucky to have you. This is such a good reminder to act with generosity whenever you're able--be the person who graciously welcomes you into their circle, not the gate-keeper!

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Omg exactly that Jen!

Expand full comment
M K Worthington's avatar

I am not in this phase of life- I am 63 and don’t have time or patience for it anymore. I have found a good way to make friends in a new place is to volunteer somewhere you care about- in my instance the local historical society, Democratic Party hq, and public library to find people of similar interests. I’m reading Nora goes off script now- taking a break from my book club reads. I’m enjoying it!

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Oh thank you!

Expand full comment
Annissa Armstrong's avatar

I would definitely talk to you while the dogs play and would even invite you for a glass of wine or two. I suggest the library or your local watering hole to find some friendly people and you will also find lots of stories in both places!!!

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Good tips!!

Expand full comment
Maureen Fearon's avatar

Happy to write a letter of recommendation for you! Those ladies have no idea how much fun they are missing.

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

You were my first Maureen!!

Expand full comment
Olivia Jackson's avatar

I would invite you to a sleepover at my house, but I am afraid you will think I am a creepy person 😂 but maybe it would be fun to get a drink with you and chat about life (and maybe books? Unless you are tired talking about books 🙃)

You and Sophie Cousens are my go-to auto-buy authors! 🥰 I read Sophie’s newest novel, and I loved it. I think it is her the best one!

Have a great weekend!

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Sophie and I are grabbing our sleeping bags and coming over

Expand full comment
Shannon Bruchal's avatar

I hope you like Connecticut. I’ve lived here most of my life. It’s a bit different than the city life, but has its beauty and charms.

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

I really do love it so far, super close to where I was so not such a big change, but the walks are stunning

Expand full comment
Anita Calleri's avatar

Here's a plan: We all meet at said destination; we laugh and have fun (overdo this part, actually); possibly hire a hunky man (preferably someone with a little bit of celebrity status) then, we wave him off with a dismissive hand. Now, who wants to be your friend????!!!!

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

I love everything about this, especially the fact that it’s a great set up for a rom com. Hear me out: now all her street cred is tied up in blowing off the hunky guy so she has to rehire him (maybe for the whole summer?) to pretend to pursue her. And then they fall in love and she realizes something, I’m not sure what

Expand full comment
Anita Calleri's avatar

There could be a whole cast of fun characters here.

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

We really need to get typing

Expand full comment
Anita Calleri's avatar

I'll be in charge of the writing the foul-mouthed, beer drinking, kind-hearted, Harley-riding, best friend!

Expand full comment
Erin Buckley's avatar

You ALWAYS have something clever to say even if it is about the weather. We miss you in Rye. I hope to see you at the post office soon or the school grounds! 💕

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Ha! Thanks Erin! I’m still a frequent flyer at the post office and at Ruby’s

Expand full comment
Olivia Muenter's avatar

Two years after moving to a place where I knew ZERO people beforehand, can confirm that making friends is somehow even harder in adulthood than middle school??

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

This is possible. Because in middle school nearly everyone is awkward (except that one girl) but in adulthood you’re the only one who’s new

Expand full comment
Francene M Katzen's avatar

I have so much to say about this middle school behavior, probably should not say most of it here. This behavior always makes me sad. I just don't know why adult women have to still act like this, I am 69 and have to say I don't want to deal this behavior anymore. My heart felt for you since I have been in your shoes before. When my hubby talks about moving to CA, always say no. Not ready to start over with friendships.

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Oh jeez don’t worry about me, they are perfectly nice. They just don’t know I’m not a serial killer yet

Expand full comment
Brooke Lea Foster's avatar

Love this description of the dog walking ladies. :)

Expand full comment
Meghan Moniri's avatar

I feel this deeply! We are considering a cross country move, and I am finally just getting settled from our move from the city to the burbs five years later. Also as a journalism major, I’m having flashbacks to my word smything class form sophomore year with your hyphening 😬

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Flashback? Flash-back? Flash back? Make it stop

Expand full comment
Daisy Alpert Florin's avatar

Welcome to the neighborhood! ❤️❤️

Expand full comment
Annabel Monaghan's avatar

Love me some Daisy!

Expand full comment