Happy New Year!

We've made our way through two weeks of stuffed poultry, champagne (see photo above), chocolates, cookies, presents, books, music, parties and various holiday treats… and now…

It's back to work. For me, that means preparing for the release of my first novel, "Paris, Rue des Martyrs." I'm both excited (as I think of this long-awaited dream coming true) and a bit scared (will readers like it!?).

But I won't bore you with my neurotic, new-writer anxiety. I'll stop before I get too emotional and instead do something productive: I'll fill you in on the latest details regarding my novel's release and what you can expect from this blog in 2014.

First, the book. "Paris, Rue des Martyrs," a story of lives that entwine in a Parisian neighborhood, is set for release on Feb. 10 under the "Agency Editions" imprint. It will be available in the Apple iBookstore, Amazon Kindle Store, NookPress and Kobo.

Please check out my new website ajcimino.com for regular updates. (I've filled in the "Paris Life" and "About" tabs so far...)

As for my blog, I promise it will not turn into a shameless book promotion tool. Sure, I will give you updates on my novel and latest writing projects because that's an integral part of my life. But as always I will continue to bring you snapshots of Paris, and my thoughts about writing and books in general.

And I look forward to more conversation with you through your lovely comments. Thanks for reading and best wishes to all for a wonderful year filled with three of our favorite things: books, writing and Paris!