Spring is in the air, with its colorful beauty and fragrant splendor highly anticipated. The flowers and succulents are beginning to bloom here in SoCal. We're still waiting and hoping for our winter rains--they haven't really materialized as thought thanks to the La Nina in effect. Let's hope they come, otherwise it's going to be another fiery summer.
I thought today I'd share some of my favorite garden pictures from Hampton Court Palace to get into the spring vibe. These pics always cheer me up.
I was intrigued by the succulents on the left--I thought their orangey center looked a bit like a Tudor rose, very appropriate for this royal abode. I was pleasantly surprised this weekend to find them closer to home in the garden at the Ritz Carlton in Laguna Niguel. I was taping my segment of the #BOOKEM show that will air later today and stumbled upon them, bringing a royal smile to my face.
It felt great to be out and about this weekend, the sunny day was invigorating for this soul. I realized how cooped up I had become this past year in quarantine. I can't wait to be outside more as the weather heats up. Don't forget to set your clocks ahead this Sunday, time to #spring forward! It's Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:
Twins in the City Locales
Mentally I'm still in London as I wrap up the final details for the book launch. Staying in the spring mode, I thought I'd share a few pictures of the locales you just might see when reading Twins. The pic above shows the lovely garden at Kensington Palace, home of my fictional royals, Prince Camden and Duchess Priscilla. Lady Gemma and Sir Kyle will be seeing a lot more of these royals, who just happen to be godparents of the twins (Gemma and Kyle are godparents to their youngest son, Prince Davey). I see royal sleepovers, dinners, playdates and of course, galas in their KP future!
This picture to the left was the inspiration for a scene in Belgravia where Gemma and Figgy took the twins and Teddy. It's a patisserie, so naturally Gemma has to stop and load up on the carb filled treats! This is a real life locale in Belgravia for Peggy Porschen's Cakes. I've browsed her website quite a few times--I cannot wait to go there when we're back in London! You can see some of her delicious concoctions here (no carbs for lookin'!)
She's offering a new book for pre-order, A Year In Cake. I think I know what my Mother's Day present might be...#JustSayin
I'll close with a glam dose of Paris--the scene for two of Gemma and Kyle's favorite couples. An important question is popped, will it be 'Oui' or 'Non'? Dun-dun-dun, sorry, you'll have to read to find out!
Twins in the City: Playtime at Castlewood Manor, coming #AprilFoolsDay!
Deadly drama with the Marsden Murder Club this week from the writers of Twitter...
Author Victoria Benchley, Friends & Killers; Book 3 (Marsden Murder Club), 5⭐
Charlotte Swain is back in California, teaching, recovering from the incidents of the last Marsden Murder Club case. Her heart is heavy, her absence from the club involves more than just her physical injuries. When fellow MMC member, Rosa pays an unexpected visit, she learns that the group needs her help to crack the case against Sue Ryan. She's been accused of killing her rival in the town of Branchester and denied bail. Charlotte's hesitation to be involved is turned around when an unexpected encounter at the Getty eases her worries, and opens the door to a new relationship with MMC colleague, Archard.
The townspeople of Branchester are up in arms and want a conviction for the gruesome murder. As Charlotte and the members of the MMC sort through the evidence, they realize sinister forces are at play in the town. An old woman claims to know the killer's identity. Is she being truthful, or has her withered mind left her deranged? Will they be able to untangle the dark web of deception in time to help Sue?
Jealousy, revenge, corrupt business dealings and romance keep the Marsden Murder Club members on their toes. As motives are revealed, the danger builds. Will Charlotte's new found happiness and relationship be cut short? Author Benchley weaves a tale of suspense filled with many twists and turns. I'm a huge fan of this series--Friends & Killers does not disappoint--a highly recommended read for mystery lovers!
Next up in the #AudioBook queue:
It's March Madness at the Ritz! Join Us on the YouTube #BOOKEM Channel Later Today!
I'm on deck this week talking all things books--with special emphasis on some upcoming releases! This week I'll be giving you a sneak peak of Poet/Author Derek King's newest collection of poetry, Natyre Boy. It's a fantastic read and will launch on March 20th. If you're looking for a relaxing session at the beach, this is a show for you--see you soon!
Welcome to my world. Enjoy the rest of your #week and don't forget to #spring forward this #weekend!
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. The Ritz Carlton in Laguna Niguel is one of our favorite places to spend an amazing afternoon or evening. The beach views are simply stunning! Gemma and Rikkhe approve!💖👑
