Page 1 of Positively, Penelope

Prologue

Dear Reader,

I’ve always lived by the adage that “a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.” In fact, I’ve found that leading with positivity is a great way to face any situation in life, even if my older siblings doubt my logic just because I like to dress in costume—I work in theater, it’s a part of the job... most of the time. I mean, there are occasions when I dress in costume for fun, but who can really ignore a perfectly amazing pair of shoes and a vintage hat?

But being the baby of a somewhat well-adjusted family does not make one spoiled. Or wrong all the time, though the elder siblings may argue to the contrary.

In fact, being a faithful observer of older siblings could be said to make the youngest more prepared to avoid the possible missteps she’s seen her siblings make.

But then again... it may not help at all.

Especially when said—quite attractive, somewhat witty, and definitely single—youngest sibling ends up on an island surrounded by strangers with an impossible job: to save a historic theater.

And of course, there’s a little girl who very much needs a Mary Poppins in her life, or a Maria von Trapp.

And two very single men who may be vying for this particular sibling’s heart.

Until they are not.

And a few Chris Pine references, but I’m not apologizing for that.

And some life-threatening escapades on a bicycle.

Plus a sea monster.

But don’t let me frighten you away. It’s a good story. Mostly. Except for the mole.

Penelope

PS: Sometimes a girl just wants to be rescued now and again. Why is that so wrong?

PPS: I donotsing too much. No matter what Luke says.

Chapter1

Skymarian Theater Troupe

From: GK

To: JA

Glad to know you’ll be arriving in Skymar tomorrow. Most people prefer the larger island of Ansling, but I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for Fiacla because of its preponderance of ruins, friendly natives, Troir Head with one of the oldest lighthouses on the islands, and the city of Mountcaster. But mostly because it’s home. I’m not certain where you will be staying for your job here, but if you get a chance to visit Mountcaster, it is worth at least a two-day trip for the buildings alone. Fantastic craftsmanship and history, as well as some of the best seafood on the island. There are two cathedrals, a lovely park in the center of the city, and the extraordinary Avelynn Palace. My brother enjoys the hiking trails as well, but I’d rather be within the magical world of theater.

You may even get the chance to meet some of the online theater troupe, but the ones who wish to remain unseen will simply continue to hide behind their online pseudonyms. I’ve found the anonymity to be particularly beneficial when one wishes to avoid former romantic disasters. But those in the online theater group usually have in-person meetings throughout the year, so the choice is up to you. Continued anonymity, or enjoy the company of possible new friends (or enemies... you know how it is in theater. You never really can tell until auditions begin).

But since you and I have been privately corresponding for the last month, I feel fairly safe in saying I wouldn’t mind meeting youin person. In the meantime, keep in mind that I’ll be happy to give any guidance as you acclimate to the wonderful world of Skymar. But for now, I shall remain,

Your anonymous friend,

GK

From: Penelope Edgewood

To: Izzy Edgewood, Luke Edgewood, Josephine Martin

Date: August27

Subject: I’m here!!

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