Before Ever After book launch at National Book Store

A couple of weeks ago, I got a package containing an uncorrected proof of a book entitled Before Ever After.

Curious, I leafed through the press materials that came with it and found out that the author, Samantha Sotto, is Filipino, and the book launch is on July 27, 6 pm at National Book Store Glorietta 5.

I’ve been meaning to read it because the cover instantly got my attention. a worn-out book set on a background of peeling paint, drying flowers, and a gold necklace. I also wanted to read the book before going to the launch because that’s what I normally do before interviewing an author, and I badly needed a book to wind down after a very hectic work week.

I reached for it on my bedside yesterday morning, and read the first one hundred pages until lunch time, after which I watched Aida at the RCBC Theater, went to mass and then dinner, snatching bits of reading time in the cab, inside the theater before the show went on, during intermission, and while waiting for our order to arrive at dinner. I woke up this morning and read the second half, and I’m still reeling over how lovely it was (I’m writing about for Manila Bulletin, so you’ll have to wait a bit for the review).

Before Ever After is Samantha Sotto’s first novel, and having traveled in Europe for most of her life inspired the novel. It features a woman named Shelley, who has been widowed for three years, when Paolo, a dead ringer for her husband, shows up on her doorstep and claims to be her husband’s grandson.

I found the book a delight to read, especially curled up under the blankets in this rainy weather. It’s one of the most engrossing books I’ve read this year, and I’m looking forward to meeting the author at the launch. I hope I can do an interview; I have so many questions to ask!

Before Ever After will be released in hardcover and trade paperback in the Philippines by Random House, and the trade paperback will be exclusively available at National Book Store. Stay tuned for the event coverage here!