Amanda Cox made a splash with her well received debut novel, The Edge of Belonging. She returns with the wonderfully titled The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery, which is also one of my favorite cover designs of this season. It’s is mysterious, simple, and inviting.
I’m grateful to Revell for providing a copy to give away as we celebrate the release of Amanda’s novel with a character spotlight on the three generations of women who grace the pages of this story.
Thank you to Amanda for this story, and for introducing us to Glory Ann, Rosemary, and Sarah.
Over to you, Amanda…
After tragedy plunges Sarah Ashby into grief and unresolved anger, she decides to return to her hometown to follow her long-denied dream of running Old Depot Grocery alongside her mother and grandmother. But when she arrives, her mother, Rosemary, announces that she is planning on closing the store.
The present time line weaves with the past when Sarah tries to uncover the real reason behind her mother’s decision but instead stumbles across a love letter intended for her grandmother. Each woman must face how their lives have been altered by false information and secrets and discover the healing power of telling the truth.
Meet Glory Ann, Rosemary & Sarah
Glory Ann
The matriarch of Old Depot Grocery
Physical Stats
Height: Petite
Hair colour & style: As a girl, she had perfectly coiffed dark curls. Now that she is in her seventies, she wears her gray hair in a bun.
Eye colour: Brown
Dress sense: Growing up she was always taught to look her best and wear the right clothes for the occasion. Adult Glory Ann is far less concerned about what other people think and goes for function over form.
Resembles…
I picture young Glory Ann resembling actress Nannette Fabray
Can’t live without…
Old Depot Grocery
Strengths:
Refusing to quit when times get tough.
Vulnerabilities:
Doesn’t know how to be vulnerable. She’s long been taught to hide the “ugly” parts of life.
Passions:
Serving her community
What book would they recommend?
I get the feeling that Glory Ann would enjoy Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg.
Your inspiration for the character
I would say that Glory Ann is a
composite of several strong-willed Southern women that I know.
Rosemary
Glory Ann’s daughter, Sarah’s mother
Physical Stats:
Height: Average
Hair colour & style: Blonde curls. She wore it long as a girl. In the present day, she wears it shorter to keep things simple.
Eye colour: Blue eyes
Dress sense: Practical. She keeps her feet comfy in her Keds.
Resembles…
That is a bit of a secret in the book…who she really resembles ;). I picture her looking a lot like actress Amanda Peterson as a teenager/young woman.
Can’t live without…
Making sure the people in her life are taken care of.
Strengths:
She has a high sense of duty.
Vulnerabilities:
She tends to try and control situations and push others into what she thinks is best for them.
Passions:
She’s always wanted to travel, but she never made that dream a reality.
What book would they recommend?
1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Though she’s never seen any of them, she’d want others to go on the adventures she’s never experienced.
Your inspiration for the character:
Rosemary is a product of the people who raised her and her life experiences. I spent a lot of time thinking through how her early childhood and perceptions about life would have shaped her.
Sarah
Glory Ann’s Granddaughter, Rosemary’s Daughter
Physical Stats
Height: Average height
Hair colour & style: Long blonde hair
Eye colour: Blue eyes
Dress sense: She’s used to wearing designer clothes, but finds she’s far more comfortable in her Old Depot Grocery T-shirt and a pair of jeans.
Resembles…
Her mother. Though she knows how to dress the part of a socialite she still has an effortless girl next door look about her.
Can’t live without…
Old Depot Grocery. If she can’t go back to the girl she was when she left Old Depot, how will she ever figure out her next steps in a life that has gone off the rails?
Strengths:
She doesn’t give up easily. She comes from a line of strong, stubborn southern women.
Vulnerabilities:
After the life she’d been building gets stripped away, she’s not quite sure who she is underneath it all.
Passions:
Old Depot Grocery. She left it behind years ago, but now sees what a mistake it was to believe her dreams were too small.
What book would they recommend?
Any good biography. She loves hearing people’s stories. There are a few stories from her family history she’d like to know more about, but her mother stays tight-lipped about them. She has a strong belief that if you know the past you can make better sense of the present.
Your inspiration for the character:
Sarah’s character was inspired by her heritage. The people who raised her have had a big influence on the choices she’s made in life, as well as her resilience when life doesn’t go as expected.
Background to the story
Old Depot Grocery was named after a real store my grandmother owned. I had a lot of fun bringing the store back to life in this book, allowing it to become a character in its own right as it changes through the years, bearing witness to the fictional lives of the characters I created.
Amanda Cox is the author of The Edge of Belonging. A blogger and a curriculum developer for a national nonprofit youth leadership organization, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Bible and theology and a master’s degree in professional counseling, but her first love is communicating through story. Her studies and her interactions with hurting families over a decade have allowed her to create multidimensional characters that connect emotionally with readers. She lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with her husband and their three children. Learn more at AmandaCoxWrites.com.
We had a small grocery store quite like the Old Depot Grocery about 2 blocks from us. I remember going there for penny candy–when we could actually get some candy for a penny!
We did really have any special grocery stores or anything that I really remember from childhood. I do remember a cute little shop that sold some of my favorite stuffed animals though.
When I was a young girl we lived on a farm outside of a tiny town. There was a small store with a little space in a front corner that served as the post office. I think it was mainly a grocery store but really can’t remember. After the owner retired, the store closed.
There was a Dutch imports “country store“ a few miles from where I grew up. It was always such a treat to go! They sold gorgeous porcelain figurines, cuckoo clocks, and other “touch me nots”, but they also had brightly wrapped candies in baskets down low for kids to find. We would usually get a ring of trail bologna and some cheese for a picnic or snack, but we could also count on a quarter to pick out some candies if we were especially good!
When we lived in Jordan, MT we used to stop at Baan Wille”s store on the way home from school sometimes and buy candy. He had groceries, household, and ranch items.
But that has changed little since January 2022, when the US was at the top of the Omicron surge.
And fewer than 3 in 10 adults (28%) have gotten their updated Covid-19 booster shot, in line with the KFF survey.
Groups at increased threat for severe outcomes from Covid-19 — including seniors,
folks with weakened immune techniques and Black and Hispanic adults — have been extra prone to
say that they’ve taken precautionary measures to protect themselves
this winter. Also, Democrats were about twice as probably as Republicans to take these
precautionary measures and to have gotten the up to date booster shot.
Of adults who’ve gotten the updated booster, the overwhelming
majority say that getting one other booster shot is
a precedence for them. Of those that haven’t gotten the updated booster, about
half say they’ve enough safety from previous shots or a prior infection. Federal information shows that
new hospital admissions for the three respiratory viruses have been trending down for weeks.
Regardless of the decrease, thousands of hospitalizations for Covid-19 and flu have been reported final week.
Enroll here to get The outcomes Are In with Dr. Sanjay Gupta each Tuesday from the CNN
Well being staff. Final month, a panel of unbiased specialists that advises the US Meals
and Drug Administration on its vaccine selections voted unanimously to update all
Covid-19 vaccines so that they comprise the identical substances as
the two-pressure photographs that are actually used as booster doses.
Total, data offered to the committee advised a bonus of the
brand new bivalent shots over the original single-strain photographs, convincing even skeptics on the
panel of their advantages.
When you mention the section on email campaigns, could you possibly give a clearer explanation of the initial steps? Also, I’m curious about the best platforms for a beginner in this domain.
I’m a beginner digital marketer, and I found this post quite useful. However, I want some assistance on a few things. About the bit where you talk about email campaigns, could you please give more details on the first steps? Also, I wonder about the key resources for someone new in this field.
Can someone break down how to incorporate this method exactly with my URL? Any advice would be really helpful!
I am new to digital marketing and found this method really promising. But, I don’t understand on how to use it with my website.
We delighted to reveal its innovative New Product Introduction Program, designed to boost customer interaction via virtual sessions featuring industry-renowned skincare professionals. Our effort puts the spotlight on new La Mer releases but also gives customers insight into the science and benefits of each product, reinforcing LMCHING’s reputation as a trusted distributor in the beauty industry.
Being a reputable distributor of La Mer products, LMCHING has established itself as a reliable source in various regions, including multiple countries such as the US, Switzerland, and Australia. Our emphasis on high-quality, genuine items at excellent prices helps boost its prominence among competitors. Prices are frequently better than on competing platforms, positioning LMCHING as the go-to choice for skincare lovers.
The New Product Introduction Program brings in exclusive online sessions where participants can interact with skincare experts sharing comprehensive insights on La Mer’s new products. Such a format educates customers on new offerings but also allows direct Q&A with professionals, offering a lively learning experience. Such direct access to knowledgeable professionals improves customers’ insight into the products, creating a lasting connection to the La Mer line.
Efficient delivery defines LMCHING’s service approach. With delivery guaranteed within three business days, ensuring faster product arrival compared to other sellers. Such quick shipping is a major benefit for buyers keen on experiencing La Mer’s effects quickly. LMCHING’s ability to deliver authentic products efficiently strengthens its standing as a trusted seller, boosting overall customer contentment.
LMCHING’s success is shown by its strong customer base and repeat orders. Thousands rely on LMCHING for La Mer products, validating the company’s reputation in a competitive market. Focus on satisfaction earns customer trust and repeat business, outshining giants like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay in La Mer products. Such success underscores customer trust in LMCHING, with a focus on genuine, quality products.
Through this innovative program, the company seeks to promote products and build a skincare community. By fostering discussions around skincare needs and preferences, the program creates a space for customers to exchange tips and reviews. This sense of community enhances the overall customer experience, turning LMCHING into a true skincare hub—developing as a go-to for skincare tips and expertise.
To sum up, the New Product Introduction Program marks an important advancement for LMCHING’s mission to provide quality skincare experiences. By organizing online events with skincare experts, they increase customer understanding and support their distributor reputation. Customers enjoy both quality products and a welcoming community along with quick shipping. As LMCHING continues to grow and innovate, it remains dedicated to exceeding customer expectations and keeping its position as a preferred La Mer distributor.
With the launch of this program, customers are invited to join LMCHING in exploring the world of La Mer like never before. The mix of insight, true products, and community makes this a can’t-miss for skincare aficionados.
LMCHING boosts customer satisfaction and trust with a simple returns policy for La Mer. The policy makes it simple for customers to return items as needed, highlighting LMCHING’s dedication to service quality. A clear return policy empowers customers to buy with ease, trusting in a straightforward and dependable process. Easy refunds and clear guidelines ensure a pleasant shopping journey, leading to customer loyalty and repeat purchases. In a crowded market, this customer-centered approach differentiates LMCHING and builds bonds. Finally, the smooth return option shows LMCHING’s dedication to quality and customer service, confirming its standing as a top La Mer provider.
This LMCHING platform, recognized as a worldwide distributor of La Mer, has launched a groundbreaking way to enhancing customer experience through a unique series of digital events, with interactive webinars and real-time streaming sessions. These online events are designed to inform customers about skincare and beauty habits, offer insights into La Mer’s product benefits, while giving customers direct access to skincare experts.
By launching these interactive events, LMCHING boosts customer understanding and creates community ties, delivering unique insights into La Mer’s high-end line, known for its luxurious ingredients and highly effective formulations.
This program addresses the increasing consumer interest for straightforward, accessible, and educational e-commerce solutions. Each session is carefully curated to highlight La Mer’s skincare products, covering iconic Crème de la Mer along with rejuvenating serums and hydrating creams. Alongside product spotlights, these events feature skincare demonstrations by experts, guidelines for maximizing product application, and personalized skincare plans for individual needs. With the addition of these educational features, LMCHING is dedicated to improving customer satisfaction, enabling La Mer customers to make well-informed choices and fully benefit from their skincare products.
LMCHING has rapidly gained favor as a source for La Mer in markets like the U.S., Switzerland, Singapore, Italy, Australia, and the Netherlands. A big factor in this success is LMCHING’s focus on offering La Mer products at competitive prices. Many customers notice La Mer products priced more affordably than on other major platforms, making LMCHING an appealing choice for quality skincare at better rates. With these pricing advantages, LMCHING has seen a major boost in customer numbers, appealing to skincare enthusiasts worldwide who want luxury skincare at more affordable rates.
RT @LynetteEason: FINAL DAYS to get Defending Honor for just $4.99 before the ebook increases to its retail price of $7.99 shortly after re…09:55:29 AM October 03, 2022
September 23, 2021 at 1:47 am
I always loved going into Woolworth’s. Grandpa always bought peanut clusters and would sometimes get us drinks from the fountain 🙂
September 23, 2021 at 3:55 am
We had a small grocery store quite like the Old Depot Grocery about 2 blocks from us. I remember going there for penny candy–when we could actually get some candy for a penny!
September 23, 2021 at 6:55 am
We did really have any special grocery stores or anything that I really remember from childhood. I do remember a cute little shop that sold some of my favorite stuffed animals though.
September 23, 2021 at 8:03 am
“Peery’s Store in Buell, Missouri, was a little grocery store in a town with about a dozen houses!
September 23, 2021 at 10:46 am
When I was a young girl we lived on a farm outside of a tiny town. There was a small store with a little space in a front corner that served as the post office. I think it was mainly a grocery store but really can’t remember. After the owner retired, the store closed.
September 23, 2021 at 10:53 pm
We had a small country store in our community that I loved to go to as a kid. It was also the post office.
September 24, 2021 at 8:50 am
My favorite book this year.
September 24, 2021 at 12:39 pm
There was a Dutch imports “country store“ a few miles from where I grew up. It was always such a treat to go! They sold gorgeous porcelain figurines, cuckoo clocks, and other “touch me nots”, but they also had brightly wrapped candies in baskets down low for kids to find. We would usually get a ring of trail bologna and some cheese for a picnic or snack, but we could also count on a quarter to pick out some candies if we were especially good!
September 24, 2021 at 9:03 pm
When we lived in Jordan, MT we used to stop at Baan Wille”s store on the way home from school sometimes and buy candy. He had groceries, household, and ranch items.
September 25, 2021 at 11:06 pm
Actually, my g-aunt and g-uncle operated a little grocery/dry goods store in a small town….this would have been in the 1940’s-1960’s.
September 26, 2021 at 9:37 am
cool
October 29, 2021 at 12:47 pm
It’s enormous that you are getting ideas from this article as well as from our discussion made here.
May 18, 2022 at 5:48 pm
Excellent article. I certainly love this site.
Thanks!
February 27, 2023 at 8:01 pm
But that has changed little since January 2022, when the US was at the top of the Omicron surge.
And fewer than 3 in 10 adults (28%) have gotten their updated Covid-19 booster shot, in line with the KFF survey.
Groups at increased threat for severe outcomes from Covid-19 — including seniors,
folks with weakened immune techniques and Black and Hispanic adults — have been extra prone to
say that they’ve taken precautionary measures to protect themselves
this winter. Also, Democrats were about twice as probably as Republicans to take these
precautionary measures and to have gotten the up to date booster shot.
Of adults who’ve gotten the updated booster, the overwhelming
majority say that getting one other booster shot is
a precedence for them. Of those that haven’t gotten the updated booster, about
half say they’ve enough safety from previous shots or a prior infection. Federal information shows that
new hospital admissions for the three respiratory viruses have been trending down for weeks.
Regardless of the decrease, thousands of hospitalizations for Covid-19 and flu have been reported final week.
Enroll here to get The outcomes Are In with Dr. Sanjay Gupta each Tuesday from the CNN
Well being staff. Final month, a panel of unbiased specialists that advises the US Meals
and Drug Administration on its vaccine selections voted unanimously to update all
Covid-19 vaccines so that they comprise the identical substances as
the two-pressure photographs that are actually used as booster doses.
Total, data offered to the committee advised a bonus of the
brand new bivalent shots over the original single-strain photographs, convincing even skeptics on the
panel of their advantages.
November 29, 2023 at 8:54 am
You actually revealed it perfectly.
July 6, 2024 at 9:54 pm
https://thumbmachine.com
When you mention the section on email campaigns, could you possibly give a clearer explanation of the initial steps? Also, I’m curious about the best platforms for a beginner in this domain.
I’m a beginner digital marketer, and I found this post quite useful. However, I want some assistance on a few things. About the bit where you talk about email campaigns, could you please give more details on the first steps? Also, I wonder about the key resources for someone new in this field.
Can someone break down how to incorporate this method exactly with my URL? Any advice would be really helpful!
I am new to digital marketing and found this method really promising. But, I don’t understand on how to use it with my website.
December 4, 2024 at 9:51 am
We delighted to reveal its innovative New Product Introduction Program, designed to boost customer interaction via virtual sessions featuring industry-renowned skincare professionals. Our effort puts the spotlight on new La Mer releases but also gives customers insight into the science and benefits of each product, reinforcing LMCHING’s reputation as a trusted distributor in the beauty industry.
Being a reputable distributor of La Mer products, LMCHING has established itself as a reliable source in various regions, including multiple countries such as the US, Switzerland, and Australia. Our emphasis on high-quality, genuine items at excellent prices helps boost its prominence among competitors. Prices are frequently better than on competing platforms, positioning LMCHING as the go-to choice for skincare lovers.
The New Product Introduction Program brings in exclusive online sessions where participants can interact with skincare experts sharing comprehensive insights on La Mer’s new products. Such a format educates customers on new offerings but also allows direct Q&A with professionals, offering a lively learning experience. Such direct access to knowledgeable professionals improves customers’ insight into the products, creating a lasting connection to the La Mer line.
Efficient delivery defines LMCHING’s service approach. With delivery guaranteed within three business days, ensuring faster product arrival compared to other sellers. Such quick shipping is a major benefit for buyers keen on experiencing La Mer’s effects quickly. LMCHING’s ability to deliver authentic products efficiently strengthens its standing as a trusted seller, boosting overall customer contentment.
LMCHING’s success is shown by its strong customer base and repeat orders. Thousands rely on LMCHING for La Mer products, validating the company’s reputation in a competitive market. Focus on satisfaction earns customer trust and repeat business, outshining giants like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay in La Mer products. Such success underscores customer trust in LMCHING, with a focus on genuine, quality products.
Through this innovative program, the company seeks to promote products and build a skincare community. By fostering discussions around skincare needs and preferences, the program creates a space for customers to exchange tips and reviews. This sense of community enhances the overall customer experience, turning LMCHING into a true skincare hub—developing as a go-to for skincare tips and expertise.
To sum up, the New Product Introduction Program marks an important advancement for LMCHING’s mission to provide quality skincare experiences. By organizing online events with skincare experts, they increase customer understanding and support their distributor reputation. Customers enjoy both quality products and a welcoming community along with quick shipping. As LMCHING continues to grow and innovate, it remains dedicated to exceeding customer expectations and keeping its position as a preferred La Mer distributor.
With the launch of this program, customers are invited to join LMCHING in exploring the world of La Mer like never before. The mix of insight, true products, and community makes this a can’t-miss for skincare aficionados.
LMCHING boosts customer satisfaction and trust with a simple returns policy for La Mer. The policy makes it simple for customers to return items as needed, highlighting LMCHING’s dedication to service quality. A clear return policy empowers customers to buy with ease, trusting in a straightforward and dependable process. Easy refunds and clear guidelines ensure a pleasant shopping journey, leading to customer loyalty and repeat purchases. In a crowded market, this customer-centered approach differentiates LMCHING and builds bonds. Finally, the smooth return option shows LMCHING’s dedication to quality and customer service, confirming its standing as a top La Mer provider.
December 10, 2024 at 3:45 am
This LMCHING platform, recognized as a worldwide distributor of La Mer, has launched a groundbreaking way to enhancing customer experience through a unique series of digital events, with interactive webinars and real-time streaming sessions. These online events are designed to inform customers about skincare and beauty habits, offer insights into La Mer’s product benefits, while giving customers direct access to skincare experts.
By launching these interactive events, LMCHING boosts customer understanding and creates community ties, delivering unique insights into La Mer’s high-end line, known for its luxurious ingredients and highly effective formulations.
This program addresses the increasing consumer interest for straightforward, accessible, and educational e-commerce solutions. Each session is carefully curated to highlight La Mer’s skincare products, covering iconic Crème de la Mer along with rejuvenating serums and hydrating creams. Alongside product spotlights, these events feature skincare demonstrations by experts, guidelines for maximizing product application, and personalized skincare plans for individual needs. With the addition of these educational features, LMCHING is dedicated to improving customer satisfaction, enabling La Mer customers to make well-informed choices and fully benefit from their skincare products.
LMCHING has rapidly gained favor as a source for La Mer in markets like the U.S., Switzerland, Singapore, Italy, Australia, and the Netherlands. A big factor in this success is LMCHING’s focus on offering La Mer products at competitive prices. Many customers notice La Mer products priced more affordably than on other major platforms, making LMCHING an appealing choice for quality skincare at better rates. With these pricing advantages, LMCHING has seen a major boost in customer numbers, appealing to skincare enthusiasts worldwide who want luxury skincare at more affordable rates.