Of Love and Madness

Kate Daniels wants it all-a big, crazy life, kids, and an adoring husband. Someday. For now, she'll be happy just to survive her first semester of college. Billy McDonald wants it all, too. Since the day he got his first guitar, he's had one goal-to prove he's worth something. His dream is so close, he can almost touch it.<BR Thrown together during a freak snowstorm, Kate and Billy's lives become permanently entwined. On the outside, they have nothing in common, but scars aren't always visible, and abuse doesn't always leave a mark. Kate keeps the pain of her past buried, while Billy carries his like a weapon. In spite of finding love, Billy continues to be haunted by his childhood and tempted by the excesses of the music industry. He struggles to keep his career on track and his inner demons at bay, until one night, he makes a mistake that could cost him everything. Kate may have found her happily ever after, but for Billy, the nightmare has just begun. Set against a backdrop of heavy metal and emerging grunge, At This Moment is the first book in the Of Love and Madness series. A love story that unfolds over twenty-five years, it's the tale of two damaged people trying to make their way in the world without destroying themselves or each other in the process. Contains mature themes.

Being married to a rock star isn't all it's cracked up to be. Kate and Billy McDonald have defied the odds. For twenty-two years they've loved each other fiercely, but it hasn't always been easy. On the road most of the time and fighting for a foothold in the music industry, Billy struggles to make a name for himself. Frustrated and angry, he relies on dangerous methods of coping, until one night, after facing the guilt of his biggest regret, he makes a mistake that could bring his entire world crashing down around him. Amazed at how far they've come from their rough beginnings, Kate cherishes her life. Sure, there are things she'd change, like having Billy home more and having a better relationship with her daughter. But when a startling betrayal follows on the heels of an unbearable loss, Kate's world spirals out of control, leaving her staggering and wondering if it's even possible to pick up the pieces. What happens when love implodes? Can it rise from the ashes, or will we all fall down? Contains mature themes.

Unable to overcome the loss and betrayal she's faced, Kate Donaldson knows there's only one way for her to heal-and that's to walk away from everything and pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Cutting herself off from everyone she loves, Kate settles in on the rocky coast of southern Maine. At first wanting nothing more than to be left alone, she eventually learns to deal with all of her hurts except one-Billy, her estranged husband. But when her past comes roaring back, Kate must choose between her head and her heart. Billy McDonald has hit rock bottom. When his wife disappears, he is forced to confront his demons. Winning that battle brings success, and for the first time in more than two decades, his music career is finally about to take off. But without Katie by his side, it's a bitter victory. What do you do when the thing you thought you wanted isn't really what you wanted after all? Contains mature themes.

Whoever said change is good should have their head examined. As far as Billy McDonald is concerned, he's changed enough for one lifetime. He's been clean and sober for two years, he's learned to manage his anger, and he's uprooted his life and relocated to Maine to reunite with his wife, Katie. He's even helped Katie create a resource center for at-risk youth, where he teaches guitar to any kid who's interested. He's paid his dues. He's evolved. He's a better man. It was hard work, but his personal life is the best it's ever been, and his music career is finally on track. Life should be easier now. Smooth sailing. No surprises, right? Yeah, well. Not so fast. Katie wants him to become a father-again. As the saying goes, been there, done that. He sucked as a parent the first time around, and as far as he's concerned, you don't get a do-over. Too bad she doesn't see it that way. After everything they've been through and all they've fought to overcome, could this be the one thing they can't get past? Contains mature themes.