New Book Release: The Butterfly's Secret: Book 2 of the Butterfly Series - by Josephine DeFalco

 

Find it on Amazon HERE

Can you ever really go home again? Leandra is a young woman when she returns to her beloved Appalachian hills, finally recognizing her deep-rooted love for her land and people. Her life starts over, revealing many new roles, some of which she chooses and some which are thrust upon her. As time passes, more and more secrets are revealed to her and then buried, all the time redefining who she has become.

At some point, she must share these secrets or die with them. As the years pass by, she makes a decision that will forever change the Barker family and future generations.

“Josephine DeFalco’s latest historical novel is a bittersweet story about life’s enduring connections—to family, to community, and to the places we call home. With descriptive prose, she treats the reader to the sights, sounds, and scents of Appalachia, to a time and place that has passed and yet lives on in secrets revealed and memories shared.”

Jessica McCann, award-winning novelist and co-leader of the Historical Novel Society, Arizona Chapter

"Beautifully written. In the mist of the Appalachian Mountains life and death, age and youth, relationships and regrets are presented in this portrait of one woman’s journey to understand the purpose of her life and all the memories folded within."

Emil Cicogna, author and instructor in the College of Education, Grand Canyon University

About the author:

Josephine DeFalco, born and raised in central Arizona, grew up among cactus wrens, horny toads, and grapefruit wars with the neighborhood boys. A lifelong writer and health professional, she holds degrees in nutrition and nursing, and has worked as a registered dietitian, health editor, and EMT. While raising three children, she began publishing both fiction and nonfiction, drawing inspiration from her roots and passion for wellness. Her historical novel The Nightbird’s Song received a 5-star review from Readers’ Favorite, while her Best Little nonfiction series—starting with The Best Little Bread Book and The Best Little Herb Book—reflects her commitment to organic gardening, simple living, and homegrown food. Josephine writes from her farms in Arizona and Wisconsin, where she lives with her husband, two dogs, and several pampered hens.

New Release: THE BUTTERFLY BUSH - by Josephine Defalco

 

Find it on Amazon Here

A gripping exploration of the enduring conflict between the past that defines us and the future that beckons us…

Growing up, and figuring out who you are, has never been easy. When Leandra’s mama yanks her off the family farm in Appalachia to fulfill her own big city dreams, Leandra learns that survival is best accomplished by pushing aside her country identity to fit into city life. Yet her Appalachian ways call to her heart, pulling her back to Mamaw, Papaw, the butterfly bush, and home.

While her rich, city boyfriend makes plans to start college, she struggles to find work while juggling family issues. As Mama turns to alcohol to ease her disappointment with her new husband, Leandra is left to look after her little brother burdened with trouble of his own. Soon she discovers she doesn’t belong in the city or the country and must see her journey to the end. But where that journey will lead remains both a mystery and a surprise, especially to Leandra.

“Josephine DeFalco gives us an unflinching, honest look at the struggles of the Appalachian people.”
Fannie Flagg, Actress, comedian, and author of the book and Academy Award nominated screenplay
Fried Green Tomatoes.

“Prepare to get caught up in the twisting heart of a young girl on her journey from farm country life in Appalachia to the urban streets of New Jersey. A southern girl at heart, Leandra Barker must change to survive and thrive in her new environment. Ill-prepared for the difficulties that lie in store as she navigates a tumultuous home life, she finds the courage and resolve to create a life of meaning and ultimately realizes that following your dreams can get in the way of what is important in life.”
Susan Pohlman, Founder and Director of the Phoenix Writer’s network and author of Halfway to Each Other: How a Year in Italy Brought our Family Home.

Jo Lee Kennedy—writing as Josephine DeFalco—was born and raised in Arizona. Her work as a registered dietitian and registered nurse in maternal health, pediatrics, geriatrics, and hospice confirmed her belief that fresh food is the best medicine, and preventative healthcare is the path to a long, productive life. Her volunteer work as an EMT taught her that life can change in a heartbeat, and taking safety measures now can literally mean the difference between life and death. She divides her time between the Southwest desert and farm-living in south Wisconsin. More at www.josephinedefalco.com