“How interesting. Yes, today’s our grand opening. We definitely had some challenges getting the place open on time, but I had a lot of help from friends and neighbors.”

Molly placed her hand on Sophie’s arm. “Small towns are great that way, aren’t they? I can’t tell you how many times our hometown has come through for my family.”

“I’ve never seen a community so eager for a bookstore. I think we’re going to do good business here.”

Molly beamed. “I’m sure you will. What a wonderful setting, and I love the name of your shop.”

“Thank you.” Sophie turned to Nathaniel. “Everything is all set up out front, and you already have a crowd waiting.”

“Would you like me to mingle with the group or wait until it’s time to speak?”

“Either way,” Sophie said. “Whichever you’d prefer.”

Drew checked the time. “In general we’ve found it works better to mingle after the speaking—you’ll sell more books that way.”

Sophie laughed. “I’m all about selling books. Please make yourselves comfortable in my office. I’ll send Ellie back just before five, then you can come out when I introduce you.”

Nathaniel smiled. “Sounds like a plan.”

chapter thirty-six

Sophie turned the Closed sign, locked the shop’s door, and fell back against it. She was bone weary despite the adrenaline still coursing through her veins. It was thirty-eight minutes past closing time, but the crowd had lingered, and Nathaniel had kindly accommodated his fans by mingling long after he’d finished signing.

They’d sold every one of his new books and quite a few of his backlist. She was a little embarrassed when they were seven books short, but the publicist quickly promised they’d send signed copies for the latecomers who’d missed out.

Ellie came back into the room with an empty garbage can. “What a night. You must be ecstatic with the turnout.”

“I’m thrilled. It exceeded my expectations, but it passed so quickly, I haven’t had time to process it all.”

“I wonder how many people came through today.”

Sophie smiled. “I think we may have broken the fire code during the party.”

“I won’t tell if you won’t.” Amber began clearing out the register. “Nathaniel was really interesting. I loved hearing how he researches his settings, and I can’t wait to read his new book. His wife was super nice. She bought eight books!”

“I bought Nathaniel’s new release for my book club,” Ellie said. “You should join us, Amber. We’re meeting here on the last Thursday of the month.”

Amber smiled. “I’d like that. I’ve never been part of a book group.”

It appeared Amber had gained Ellie’s respect today. She’d proven herself to be competent. Sophie had chosen well in both women.