About the Author: “Chris Posti began her writing career at age eight, when she gave her mother a book of poems she’d written in pencil on a lined yellow tablet. Since then, Chris has authored two non- fiction books, a workbook, a Sunday newspaper column, and dozens of articles. Self-employed for 30 years as an executive coach, job search consultant, and public speaker, she turned in her high heels and leather briefcase to write her debut novel, a fun read with a touch of romance and faith. The story tells about three women, now 57, who had been best friends at St. Cyprian’s Academy in Port Mariette, a small and shriveling blue-collar town southwest of Pittsburgh. The women’s fortieth high school reunion brings transformation to them and their town.”
More info From the Publisher: “Suzanne Fleming has spent most of her adult life working as a traveling trainer for an airline, untethered and mildly content. Just when she begins to feel a stirring in her heart to settle down with a seemingly perfect guy, she loses her job and is forced to face unexpected change in her career, her romantic prospects, and her spiritual life.
In the wake of her husband’s sudden passing, Rachel Baran helps organize her upcoming high school reunion in tiny Port Mariette, Pennsylvania. When she reaches out to Suzanne and Marla Galani, the third member of their trio, she’s not prepared for a journey that will lead her to independence, forgiveness, and peace.
Just after Marla Galani sells her thriving Manhattan business, she revisits high school friendships and her mysterious past. Seeking family, forgiveness, and purpose, she adds her marketing expertise to the group’s ambitious plans to revitalize the blue-collar town that brought them all together…”
Author Website “A witty novel featuring relatable characters and surprising twists—everything from sharing shame-filled secrets, hobbling through grief, growing a fledgling faith, and the joys and trials of enduring friendship. Falling Apart, Falling For You will capture your heart and encourage you that it’s never too late to make a fresh start.” -Sarah Hanks, author of Mercy Will Follow Me, Mercy’s Song, and Mercy’s Legacy
“You’ll want to gather Suzanne, Rachel, and Marla into your arms for a group hug as you cry about their past heartaches, then cheer while they embrace challenges, victory, and the promise of love to come. A celebration of old friends, fun times, and a faith-filled future!” -K.L. Gilchrist, author of Thick Chicks and Engaged
“Three close high school friends find each other after forty years. Three very different women, three types of families; gut-clenching challenges and fun; sorrow and hope. And re-blossoming faith. All wrapped together in a delightful fortieth high school reunion. This story will tickle your spirit and touch your heart.” -Kathy McKinsey, author of All My Tears, Millie’s Christmas, and Gifts of Grace
You just turned 70. What caused you to become a novelist at this point in your life?
Blame it on the pandemic. I suddenly had spare time to do more reading, and struggled to find women’s fiction with main characters over age 50. I decided to fill that void with three women in their late 50s, along with minor characters of all ages.
What inspired the content of Falling Apart, Falling for You?
Chairing my 45th high school reunion surely provided the seed of an idea, and I jokingly tell my high school friends I just changed their names for my book. The truth is, everything in there is fiction, even though each character and each scene came from some part of me—whether it was something I experienced in my own life, or heard about, or read about.
How did you come up with that title?
The book’s working title was Baby Boomer Reunion, but before submitting it to a publisher, the title Falling Apart, Falling for You, which is a better reflection of what happens in the book, popped into my brain. In the first three chapters, each of the main characters is a mess: Suzanne has lost her job, Rachel’s husband has died, and Marla has gained a fortune but lost her purpose in life. By the end of the book, they are each in some stage of a romantic relationship, but more importantly, they are each transformed within.
What do you hope readers will get from reading this novel?
As we age, our society tends to devalue us, but this book encourages us not to buy into that belief system. We can still change, grow, and have rich lives and marvelous experiences at any age. This includes our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual selves.
Can you introduce us to your three main characters—Suzanne, Rachel, and Marla?
Suzanne is the cute, flirty one who loves to talk, travel, and draw. Rachel loves predictability, praying, and family—and cooking, which is both a blessing and a curse to her. Marla is sexy, smart, and successful but old secrets threaten to undo her and others.
Do you have a favorite character or scene?
I love each of the three main characters for who they are and who they strive to become. Just as with real people, I like some aspects of their personality or behavior better than others. Rachel, for example, loves to be of service to others—but if anyone wrongs her, she’s notorious for holding onto a grudge. As for favorite scenes, it’s a toss- up between the reunion itself which is funny and surprising, and the epilogue, which is a touching, emotional scene that wraps up the story with a bow.
Who do you picture reading this novel?
Women in their 50s and up are the likely audience, although men and younger women have also told me they really enjoyed reading it. That makes sense, as there are plenty of other intriguing characters of both sexes and all ages who play lesser but key roles. Still, the fact is, I wrote this novel for mature-age women who want a fun, clean read, with a big dose of romance, faith, and inspiration.
Is Falling Apart, Falling for You part of a series?
Yes. I’m working on the second book now, which should be released in 2023, and there will also be a third book after that. All three books will have the same three main characters. Falling Apart, Falling for You highlights Suzanne; the second novel will highlight Marla; and the third, Rachel.
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