Tori (Cole) Whitaker will sign her new novel “A Matter of Happiness” on Nov. 12 at Viewpoint Books.
Submitted photo
Former Columbus resident and author Tori (Cole) Whitaker will have a homecoming of sorts when she is featured at a book-signing event at Viewpoint Books next month for the launch of her second novel.
Whitaker, a graduate of Columbus East High School and former member of North Christian Church, will be back in town for the release of her new novel of historical fiction, “A Matter of Happiness.”
“I haven’t missed a class reunion in 45 years,” said Whitaker, who now lives near Atlanta with her husband, John, the former owner of Today’s Wheels van shop during the 1970s and ’80s. “But it will be special to celebrate the launch of my second novel with people in my old hometown.”
Whitaker, who lived in Columbus from 1968 to 1982, will be signing copies of her new novel of historical fiction on Nov. 12 at Columbus’ independent Viewpoint Books. The signing will come just days after release of the book, which is described as a dual timeline story that “follows two fiercely independent women a century apart and the cherished heirloom that opens up family secrets.”
Whitaker’s new book has received laudatory notices and comes on the heels of her 2020 debut novel, “Millicent Glenn’s Last Wish,” which was a finalist in the historical fiction category of the 2020 International Book Awards celebrating self-published and independent authors.
A synopsis of “A Matter of Happiness” describes a story unfolding from the discovery by protagonist Melanie Barnett of a journal from a distant relative, Violet, who led a life of adventure in 1920s Detroit, the hub of the motorcar boom and then the fastest-growing city in America. “But in an era of speakeasies, financial windfalls, free-spirited friends, and unexpected romance, it’s easy to spin out of control,” the synopsis says.
“Now, as Melanie’s own world takes unexpected turns, her life and Violet’s life intersect. Generations apart, they’re coming into their own and questioning what modern womanhood — and happiness — really means.”
