Straight Reading from the Library: Sworn to Collide by Maria Imbalzano

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After devoting eleven years of marriage to Ben, her high school sweetheart, and stepping off the corporate ladder to raise their three children, Denise is ready to seize the reins of the career she always dreamed of. But as soon as she commits to step back into the professional world, Ben drops a bombshell that disrupts everything. Suddenly, this once rock-solid couple finds themselves in a battle over ambition, identity, and whose turn it is to shine. As personal choices draw them further and further apart, they must confront their widening rift—a threat to the love they thought was unshakeable. Can they rediscover the passion they once shared, or will their divergent paths pull them apart for good?

READ THE REVIEW

Sworn to Collide, the fourth installment in Maria Imbalzano's Sworn Sisters series, is an emotionally resonant work of women's fiction that explores the complexities of marriage, trust, and personal growth. Although part of an ongoing series, this novel functions well as a standalone, providing sufficient background while rewarding returning readers with the continued presence of the close-knit Sworn Sisters.

The novel follows Denise as she navigates a pivotal period in her marriage to Ben, confronting challenges that test the foundation of their relationship. Told entirely from Denise's perspective, the story nevertheless presents both partners with empathy and nuance. Rather than assigning blame, Imbalzano allows readers to understand the motivations and vulnerabilities of each character, creating a realistic and balanced portrayal of marital conflict.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is its well-developed characterization. Denise's emotional journey is compelling, and the interwoven memories of her relationship with Ben provide meaningful context for the decisions she faces in the present. These reflective moments deepen the emotional impact of the story while highlighting the joys and hardships that shape a long-term partnership.

The narrative maintains a steady sense of tension, making the outcome difficult to predict until the final pages. Imbalzano skillfully examines the everyday choices and larger life decisions that influence relationships, resulting in a thoughtful and engaging novel.

The enduring friendship among the Sworn Sisters adds warmth and depth to the story. Their unwavering support for one another enriches the narrative and will likely encourage new readers to seek out the earlier books in the series.

Recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven women's fiction centered on family relationships, marriage, enduring friendships, and emotionally authentic stories of resilience and self-discovery.

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As Ben headed into the living room, the two younger kids shrieked and ran downstairs to greet him before jumping into his arms and giving him huge hugs. Bobby followed at a more reserved pace, but he joined in a hug as well. The noise was raucous as Ben tickled Jennifer and Johnny, riling them up, which was never a good thing when it came to Johnny. He was a cyclone all on his own.

I looked at my happy family while holding a basket of laundry. I couldn’t help but smile at this familiar scene from the past. A lifetime ago.

“Hi,” I said as I passed, heading for the laundry room. No kiss, no hug. Just hi. We had become adversaries who now each had an attorney to help us navigate through the issues inherent in the breakup of a marriage.

He stopped roughhousing with Johnny for a second and caught my eye. “I thought we could all go to the park. Feed the ducks, kick the soccer ball around. It’s a great day.”

Was he extending the proverbial olive branch or just trying to act normal in front of the kids, hoping I would follow his lead? But I couldn’t possibly carry on as if he hadn’t slapped me with his attorney’s letter.

“I can’t. I have laundry to do, and I’m meeting Alyssa for lunch.”

Disappointment curved his shoulders, but I was hurting too. I didn’t want to be reminded about our family life and how happy we’d been. It just made my heart ache more.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Maria Imbalzano is an award-winning contemporary author who writes about strong, independent women and the men who fall in love with them. She recently retired from the practice of law, but legal issues have a way of showing up in many of her novels. When not writing, she loves to travel both abroad and in the states. Maria lives in central New Jersey with her husband--not far from her two daughters. For more information about her books, please visit her website at http://mariaimbalzano.com where you can also sign up for her newsletter.

Awards

Maria is a member of New Jersey Romance Writers and has received many honors and awards for her work including the ACRA Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award, the Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers Award, The NEST (National Excellence In Story Telling) Award, the Carolyn Award, Book Buyers Best Award, The Stiletto Reader’s Choice Award, Long & Short Reviews Book of the Month Award (3rd Place for Book of the Year), and Still Moments Magazine Reader’s Choice Award.

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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sworn-Collide-Sisters-Book-ebook/dp/B0GLHKF627/ref=sr_1_1

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Straight Chatting from the Library: Maria Imbalzano

 

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Maria Imbalzano will be awarding a $15 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

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How did you choose your genre? What made you write this book?

I love to read contemporary romance, so when I first started writing over 20 years ago, I chose the genre I enjoy most. I wrote this book because of my love of the Florida Keys, and specifically Key West, which is the setting for “Island Detour” (although it’s called Sunrise Island). I had also learned about a semester-away environmental school for teens in the Bahamas, which fascinated me. As a result, I created Sunrise Island School.

Writers write what they know, and must observe the world. Are you a first born, middle or last child and how does this shape your view of the world?

As a first-born child, I am confident, driven, and have achieved success. That’s the positive side. On the negative side, I like to control things and am focused on being correct. I think that since I am driven and have achieved success, I believe everyone should be driven. It’s the only way to get somewhere.

Where is your favorite place to write?

I have an office at home overlooking our back yard, which is my writing space. All of my books on writing are in the closet, I have paper, pens, clips, highlighters, stickie notes, and anything else I could possibly need while I’m writing. I also have a big comfy chair that I could sit in and read my pages, if I want to edit on paper. We also have a beach house which overlooks the Atlantic. I have a desk there that faces the ocean in our second floor bedroom. While I don’t have all my “stuff” there, all I need is my laptop and notebook with my in-depth outline of my story, and I’m good to go.

How do you feel about killing your darlings, and what do you do with the remains?

I’m guessing you’re talking about editing out scenes that I love or re-writing a story because the first version isn’t working. I can’t say that I love it, but I understand that it may be necessary. I save everything I’ve edited out into another document in case I can use it in a different scene.

You are introduced to your favorite author. Who is it, and what is that one burning question you must ask them?

Interestingly, I just met and had lunch with Fiona Davis (Lions of Fifth Avenue, The Spectacular etc.) She writes historical fiction that takes place at iconic buildings in New York City, which I love. My first question: how did you come up with such an interesting niche?

Inquiring minds want to know…tell readers something about you that no one knows.

I was inducted into The Italian American Hall of Fame in 2014.

You are stranded on a deserted island with only a back pack for company. What three items are in your survival pack?

Water
Kindle
Some long life battery to keep my Kindle from dying

If you could have one super power in your existence, what would it be?

Flying. I often dream that I can fly and it’s awesome.

Favorite snack?

Milk chocolate candy

Indy 500 - Do you know how to get where you’re going or do you drive the speed limit?

I generally know how to get where I’m going. I’m a planner/plotter after all. I rarely drive the speed limit. I need to get where I’m going as quickly as possible so I can enjoy every minute of the destination.

READ THE BLURB

Falsely accused of wrongdoing at a Princeton Prep school, Sophie Kearns accepts a temporary teaching position at an environmental school in the Florida Keys to wait out her suspension. The time away is meant to be an anxiety-free escape, but her clashes with the hot but arrogant marine biology teacher, Max Heaton, are anything but tranquil.

Max is determined to start an environmental research institute at the school, but he suspects the gorgeous new Lit teacher, who lacks even the most basic outdoor skills, is there to hinder that dream. Yet, something about her tames the demons from his past, and he can no longer ignore the fire she’s lit inside him.

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It wasn’t long enough before Max and Ben ushered Sophie to the fishing boat. She inhaled huge breaths of salt air, hoping the oxygen would perform some magic on the dull throb in her head.

“I know you’re going to find this hard to believe,” she started hesitantly, “but I don’t know how to fish.”

“What a surprise.” Max didn’t even bother to moderate his sarcasm.

Sophie’s scowl fell on his back as he and Ben gathered up rods and reels, a tackle box, and cartons of what she could only assume contained live bait. He had been sniping at her for days. Ever since Andy had asked her to cover for him as director. It was as if she had caused Andy’s accident intentionally, just to take over his job and keep it from Max.

She followed them onto the dock and into the boat, wishing she had brought her bottle of aspirin to dull the pain of this ill-conceived trip.

She sat on the bench, quiet as a church mouse, as Max steered the boat out toward the ocean. Her eyes betrayed her as they were drawn to the muscles in his back and shoulders, stretching and straining with each movement. His tawny, bronze skin glistened with a layer of sunscreen and ocean mist. A work of art. His jaw was square and tight, his cheekbones chiseled. Soft, wavy brown hair blew straight back from his forehead, giving her a bird’s-eye view of one very gorgeous man. Oh, so easy on the eyes. Too bad he wasn’t as easy on the nerves.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Maria Imbalzano is an award-winning contemporary author who writes about strong, independent women and the men who fall in love with them. She recently retired from the practice of law, but legal issues have a way of showing up in many of her novels. When not writing, she loves to travel both abroad and in the states. Maria lives in central New Jersey with her husband--not far from her two daughters and granddaughters. For more information about her books, please visit her website at http://mariaimbalzano.com where you can also sign up for her newsletter.

Awards Maria is a member of New Jersey Romance Writers and has received many honors and awards for her work including the ACRA Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award, the Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers Award, The NEST (National Excellence In Story Telling) Award, the Carolyn Award, Book Buyers Best Award, The Stiletto Reader’s Choice Award, Long & Short Reviews Book of the Month Award (3rd Place for Book of the Year), and Still Moments Magazine Reader’s Choice Award.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariaimbalzanoauthor
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mariaimbalzano
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/Mariaimbalzano_author
Website: http://www.mariaimbalzano.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7276749.Maria_Imbalzano
Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/maria-imbalzano
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00FG9RI5K

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Straight Reading from the Library: A Song for Another Day by Maria Imbalzano

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will be awarding a $20 Amazon/BN GC drawn commenter via the Rafflecopter at the end of the post. Click the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

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Gigi Jenson, an up-and-coming Broadway star, finds herself in Willow Springs, Vermont, for the summer as director of their first annual community revue. This sleepy town is worlds away from her vibrant and beloved New York City, but the experience she’ll gain will be invaluable to her career.

Jason Simmons has lived in Willow Springs his entire life. Working several jobs while writing music, he yearns for a contract to record his songs. The one chance he had to make it in Nashville he blew due to stage fright.

When Jason volunteers to help Gigi with the revue, sparks ignite but their dreams are taking them in different directions. Will their love for each other ever guide them to the same path?

READ THE REVIEW

I really enjoyed this novella from Maria Imbalzano.  I've never had the pleasure of reading anything by her previously, but I'll have to rectify that.  She is a very skilled author with the ability to paint a picture with her words.  Skillfully using all the senses, she puts the reader right into the story and has it play like a movie through your mind.

It honestly took me a little bit to warm up to Gigi.  I get she's a big-city woman, but much of her attitude came across as snobbish and superior to me.  Thankfully, her interactions with Nate, from the very start, show that she is also a warm, caring person.  With him (a person from her past) she's relaxed and can be more herself, I think.

I did like Jason very much.  He has his issues, to be sure, but he's just a solid, good man.  He wants to do what he loves, but has a lot to get past, first.  It's an interesting twist on the norm: a confident, ambitious heroine and a hero who lacks confidence and drive.  As the story progresses, you can definitely see how they complement each other, one providing what the other needs.  While, largely due to the length of the story (and of her work commitment to the town), they fall in love pretty quickly, I still both enjoyed and believe their story.

I'm glad I had the chance to read this story. Maria Imbalzano is definitely an author to keep an eye out for.  I'm rating this 4 solid stars.

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Halfway through the song, the air in the tavern seemed to change. His gaze followed that of a few of the guys sitting nearby. Giselle had walked in. Not exactly walked. Glided. His heart picked up a quicker beat, as he concentrated on the words to the song he was singing. Thankfully, he could sing this song with no brain cells.

Dressed in black jeans—designer no doubt—a black silky tank top, and black-heeled sandals, she stuck out in the crowd like a glittering star in a dark, moonless sky. Her long blonde hair was pulled up into a high ponytail showcasing her elegant neck and dangly, silver earrings. Silver bangles graced her wrist. Definitely overdressed.

Her gaze clicked on his, and surprise lifted her perfectly arched brows.

She found an empty bar stool, perused the menu, and ordered something from Sarah. Apparently she was staying for a while. Maybe he’d join her on his break. She probably knew no one in town, which had to be difficult. The least he could do was introduce her around so she’d feel more at ease.

Maybe he’d even give her some tips on how to dress when coming to Finnigan’s.

Although she sure looked hot in those upscale black jeans.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Maria Imbalzano is a retired matrimonial lawyer who now writes full time. Instead of drafting motions, legal memoranda, and briefs, although fascinating, she now spends her days creating memorable characters and taking them on their emotional journeys through her contemporary romance novels.

In addition to writing fiction, Maria is on the Friends of Thomas Edison State University Foundation Committee and is still involved with Dress for Success Central Jersey, having been a founding Board member. She also serves on the finance committee for The Present Day Club. She has received the distinguished Family of Edison Award for her work with The Thomas Edison State University Foundation, the Iron Mike Professional Achievement Award from Trenton Catholic Academy and was inducted into the Italian American National Hall of Fame.

Her novel, “Unchained Memories,” won the Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers’ Award and the ACRA Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award. “Sworn to Forget,” the first of the four-book Sworn Sisters Series was a finalist for the illustrious RONE award as well as the Book Buyers Best Award.

Visit Maria at http://www.mariaimbalzano.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariaimbalzanoauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MariaImbalzano

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