1) I love the brief ambiguity of the first few words. Of course, the verb “change” applies to the traffic light that is impeding the protagonist’s progress, but isn’t the whole point of a novel that the protagonists must make changes in their lives?
2) What a lovely introduction of “Miss Penny!” (Obviously the love interest.) Music swells! Joyous laughter! A sparkly, womanly body! Subconscious reminder of the dead wife he loved so much!
3) So Miss Penny is an “overgrown Tinkerbell,” she’s a “giggly fairy queen.” What a contrast with Carson, who is clearly incredibly stressed out and who feels burdened by all of his problems and responsibilities. Relationships are all about contrasts! How two characters can complement each other and provide what the other needs and lacks!
Check out the author’s web site (packed with helpful blog posts) and buy her book!
