Winter came and went in a blur. When you move to a new city (for those who aren’t aware, I relocated to New York in the fall), time evaporates. Moving is hard. Settling into a new place is hard. And New York is ten times harder. I can’t count the number of hours I’ve spent trying to understand the rules and restrictions of sublet life, getting a credit card or losing myself in the labyrinth that is the NYC Metro.

As grateful as I am for the opportunity that brought me here, the city that never sleeps can be alarmingly lonely. It’s an odd feeling — space is at such a premium and most days I spend hours crammed in amongst other New Yorkers, squished like sardines in a tin. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that you can be surrounded by people and still feel extremely isolated.

I suppose it’s only appropriate that the title of my friend’s debut novel is Never Been Better. I often feel myself uttering those three words when asked by friends and family how I am.

But today, as I sit writing in my Brooklyn apartment, I can honestly say I’ve never been better. Because in two weeks, I’ll be interviewing my dear friend and fellow Canadian author Leanne Toshiko-Simpson in a gallery in Chelsea. And the fact that I even get to type those words gives me chills. Just a few years ago, I was an unpublished author who could have only dreamed of living in New York. And while moving here wasn’t my huge life goal, it is quite surreal to experience it and to be able to say to people ‘Oh yes, I’m going to be moderating a book launch event for my fellow author.’

Now on to Leanne and her fabulous book, which can be described as My Best Friend’s Wedding meets Silver Linings Playbook. Leanne’s publisher bills Never Been Better as a ‘hilariously offbeat and tender comedy about one bipolar woman’s messy search for love at a seaside wedding where no one can stay afloat. Is she falling in love, or falling apart?’

I lapped this novel up. When things aren’t exactly going to plan, I take comfort in romantic comedies and YA thrillers. Never Been Better didn’t disappoint - it was heartfelt, funny and poignant all at once.

Leanne and I met at a HarperCollins Canada party (we have the same editor in Canada) and hit it off. She is one of the most vibrant, caring and kind people I know. We kept in touch and in early 2024 she let me know she was coming to NYC to launch her book. Then, by some twist of miracles, the stars aligned for me to be able to moderate her launch. Leanne has been through a lot and writes with so much heart when it comes to the mental health experiences of her characters.

If you’re in NYC and free on April 18th, please stop by. There will be laughter and perhaps a few tears and great conversation.

Never Been Better - U.S Book Launch

Date: April 18th, 2024 from 6 - 8pm

Location: Fountain House Gallery

The event is open to all but you have to sign up for a ticket.

If you can’t make it but are interested in the book, you can purchase a copy of Never Been Better at select retailers.