Contemporary/Women’s/Romance
Date Published: 02-24-2026
Publisher: She Writes Press
comedy featuring a newly widowed fortysomething takes the reader on a joyful
romp through-out some of Chicago’s finest eateries—with a dash of
Cubs baseball on the side.
In the heart of Chicago, forty-five-year-old Angie Sortino finds herself at a
crossroads. Recently widowed, she discovers that her deceased husband, Vinnie,
has left her penniless, and she is forced to take a job at Chicago City Hall
as a cleaning woman until Vinnie’s City pension can be cleared up. Then
her spirited twenty-two-year-old niece, Gina Paloni, and her best friend Kim
Yang, approach her with a dream of starting a catering company targeting
funeral parlors—and Angie sees a chance to reawaken her own culinary
aspirations.
As the three women embark on this new venture, they face the challenges of the
catering business, from securing clients to perfecting their menu. Angie and
Gina’s love for the Chicago Cubs adds a playful twist to their journey,
as they often find inspiration in the vibrant atmosphere of Wrigley Field.
Gina’s youthful enthusiasm contrasts with Angie’s cautious nature,
leading to hilarious mishaps, unexpected romantic encounters, and heartfelt
moments.
Through late-night brainstorming sessions and spontaneous cooking experiments,
Angie begins to find her voice, both in the kitchen and in her life. With the
support of a respected funeral director, Gina and Kim, and an unexpected new
love interest, Angie learns to embrace her worth and pursue happiness.
About the Author
with a mission and a side of humor. Her books have won the NYC Big Book Award,
Chanticleer International Book Awards, IPPY, Independent Press Awards, and
more. Before becoming a writer, Amy enjoyed a fascinating thirty-five-year
career in the organ transplant. She also studied improv at Second City Players
workshop for a year. She is, and will always be, a die-hard Cubs fan. You can
find out more about her by visiting www. amyspeele.com. Amy resides in Novato,
California, with her husband, Mark Schatz, and their loyal dog, Rusty.
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