Happy Hour

Discover "Happy Hour": A Groundbreaking Menopause Romance Novel by Elissa Bass In an enlightening episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, author Elissa Bass shares the inspiring story behind her innovative novel "Happy Hour" - a unique reverse age gap romance set on Cape Cod during the off-season. Bass, a 62-year-old former journalist, drew inspiration from her personal 11-year menopause journey to create a compelling narrative that challenges societal expectations. The novel follows KK, a 55-year-old protagonist navigating life's complexities after a marriage breakdown, who unexpectedly finds love with a younger partner. The book explores themes of unexpected romance, social media judgment, and personal resilience. When the main characters accidentally go viral on TikTok, their relationship faces intense public scrutiny, mirroring contemporary social dynamics. Bass intentionally crafted a story that highlights the challenges faced by older women in relationships, creating what she believes to be the first "menopause romance" genre. Her journalistic background significantly influenced her novel-writing approach, particularly in crafting realistic dialogue. Bass's decades of interviewing experience helped her create authentic characters and narrative structures that resonate deeply with readers. The novel has already touched numerous readers' lives, with one particularly moving story involving a reader sharing the book with a friend undergoing chemotherapy. Bass was deeply moved by how her writing provided comfort and connection during challenging times. Readers can find "Happy Hour" through various platforms, with Bass encouraging support for independent bookstores. A sequel, "Please Wait to Cross," focusing on KK's older sister, is set to be released in mid-fall.