As you may or may not know, my husband, Dylan Boot, was the inspiration behind the character, Derrick Denison in Just the Way You Are. When writing the book I knew I wanted Derrick’s character to be that nearly perfect guy that most every girl dreams about falling for and spending her life. I’m not saying that my husband is perfect, no one  is, but he is pretty darn close. I wanted Derrick to be that kind of guy so using my husband as the inspiration was an easy decision. However, it should be noted that while Derrick’s looks and kind disposition do nothing to hurt his character, those are not the things that make him the perfect partner for Misty. The way that he encourages Misty to stand up for herself when appropriate yet also stands up for her when appropriate, is what makes him the perfect partner for her. I hope this sends the message to young girls that your partner should both support you and let you be your own woman because, in my humble opinion, having the ability to support someone while letting him or her be his/her own person is what makes someone an awesome partner. Until next time…happy reading and, as always, don’t forget to love yourself just the way you are 🙂