Tesa Jones is an Elon University alumna, retired teacher, wife, and mother of two. Although she lived most of her life in Alexandria, Virginia, she now resides in Mooresville, North Carolina. She is very active in her church, adores her grandchildren, and enjoys boating, writing, and photography. This is her second novel.

I have recently been asked, “What is Reflection of Memories about and is there a theme to the story?”

Reflection of Memories is written in the first person from the minds of two characters: Richard Malone and Caroline Sue Miller. They are born on the same day to parents who live on opposite sides of the societal fences. The two meet as children — despite the economic differences between their families — they become best friends. Their friendship blossoms into forbidden love. They leave the security of their homes and settle in New Jersey where their future is a blank slate. As Richard and Caroline make their way through life, their choices often veer their love off course, but the bond they share has deep roots that continually pull them together again.

To answer the second part of this question . . . there are actually several themes in Reflection of Memories. It is difficult to pick just one and equally as difficult to put them in order of importance because these underlying themes are the pieces of the puzzle that pull the story together.

1. Don’t let the elements of your birth define who you are or how you live your life; figure out early what is REALLY important – and make it happen!
2. Know what occurred in the world before you came into it so you will know the impact those events will have on your life.
3. Recognize the power of the love of family, faith and friends.
4. Good communication is the key to a successful relationship.
5. The choices we make reflect the memories we create.
6. Everyone makes mistakes; learn from those mistakes – move forward and don’t make the same mistake twice.

Although Reflection of Memories is a little “steamy” in places, I have often thought it would be a good addition to the summer reading list for a rising senior and/or a college student. The history they study in school actually comes alive for the students, which makes it easier to retain the information they will need when they take the test.

Whether the reader is sailing through youthful days or enjoying the golden years, Reflection of Memories will capture your heart and remind you of what is truly important in life. I’ve been told by readers of all ages that when they turn the pages of this novel, they become invested in these characters and often find themselves identifying with the protagonists. That is the ultimate compliment for any writer.