Emmaline Hoffmeister signing Longbourn’s Unexpected Matchmaker at Orca Books Cooperative in Olympia, Washington on April 17, 2010.
NOTE: Emmaline Hoffmeister originally wrote Longbourn’s Unexpected Matchmaker under the pen-name Emma Hox.
Orca Books Cooperative, Olympia, Washington
On a crisp and rainy spring afternoon in Olympia, Washington, April 17, 2010, fans of Emmaline Hoffmeister gathered at Orca Books Cooperative for a special treat: a book signing event featuring her beloved and debut novel, Longbourn’s Unexpected Matchmaker. The independent bookstore, known for its warm and eclectic charm, was buzzing with excitement as readers of all ages came to meet the author.
The event kicked off at 2:00 PM, with readers filing in, clutching and purchasing copies of Longbourn’s Unexpected Matchmaker. The book is a heartfelt variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and explores another version where an unexpected matchmaker interferes with Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship, bringing about their marriage in a whole new way.
Emmaline, with her trademark blend of elegance and approachability, greeted each reader with a smile. She took time to personalize each autograph, often engaging in heartfelt conversations. “Meeting my readers is the best part of being a writer,” Emmaline shared. “Hearing how my stories have touched their lives inspires me to keep writing.”
Readers who Came
The reader imaged below was a young girl who was aspiring to be a writer herself. She asked many wonderful questions about Emmaline’s writing process and shared some of her own processes. She was excited to expand her writing classes at the local university extension campus.
The event also included a short reading from Longbourn’s Unexpected Matchmaker. Emmaline chose a pivotal scene that highlighted Darcy and the unexpected matchmaker’s relationship and how it progressed and aided Mr. Darcy in winning Elizabeth’s love. Her expressive narration brought the words to life, leaving the room captivated.
Fans were also delighted to learn more about Emmaline’s creative process during the Q&A session. Questions ranged from her inspirations for the book to her advice for aspiring writers. “Write what you’re passionate about,” she encouraged. “And don’t be afraid to rewrite. That’s where the magic happens.”
As the event wrapped up, Emmaline expressed her gratitude to Orca Books Cooperative for hosting and to her readers for their unwavering support. Many attendees lingered to take photos, share stories, and browse the bookstore’s thoughtfully curated shelves.
The day was a resounding success, marking another milestone in Emmaline Hoffmeister’s literary journey.
If you’ve yet to experience the magic of Longbourn’s Unexpected Matchmaker, it’s not too late to discover why so many readers have fallen in love with Emmaline’s storytelling. And who knows? You might just find yourself your next favorite novel.
Emmaline signing books for her friend Ramona and her daughter.
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