Friends, Lovers and More

Book excerpt: FRIENDS, LOVERS AND MORE The hardships of New York force Italian immigrants, Camille Rosario and her parents to travel to sleepy Paola, Kansas, for a new life. One girl softens the rejection of the other students and despite a three year difference in age, colliding personalities and temperaments, Camille and Opal Richards forge a friendship. At thirteen, Camilles exceptional sewing skills kick-starts a life-long seamstress career. Hilarity and patience keep Camille and Opal working side by side as boss and accountant, meeting the challenges of happy, sad and outrageous Midwest brides. Camilles height is short, her weight is plump, her nose is big and despite a delightful personality her social life is a dismal one. Tall, beautiful Opal challenges societys mores by raising a child out of wedlock with Camilles help. Through the Depression, the Dirty Thirties, War, Rock n Roll, Segregation, Camille and Opal endure broken engagements, death, polio, tornados and life threatening health issues to celebrate each other strengths and happiness. Humor and loyalty bind two friends together through disappointments and triumphs.