Maria Rivera believes a story should feel like a place you can walk through. The contemporary fiction author often visits the settings of her novels to ensure the descriptions carry the weight of reality. This summer, she returns to the heart of her book, Dropping Perez, for a unique signing event. The gathering takes place on Saturday, July 11, at The Sandpiper restaurant in East Haven, Connecticut.
Where Fiction Meets Reality
Dropping Perez centers on Maritza Ortega Perez. After thirty-five years of marriage, her husband leaves her, forcing her to rebuild a life she thought was settled. Maritza is a high school English teacher who finds herself at a crossroads. She accepts a summer job managing a recreation center calendar in East Haven. While she initially resists the move, the change of scenery proves to be the catalyst she needs.
The setting of Cosey Beach is not just a backdrop; it is a character. Maria Rivera spent significant time at the beach while drafting the manuscript. She often sat at The Sandpiper for lunch, and even wrote a pivotal scene while dining there. By holding her book signing at this specific restaurant, Rivera allows readers to step directly into Maritza’s world.
Capturing the Spirit of East Haven
The novel features local landmarks that residents will recognize instantly. The clubhouse on the beach serves as a central hub for the story’s events. During her research, Rivera knocked on the clubhouse door and spoke with a staff member who allowed her to tour the interior. This level of detail ensures the narrative feels grounded and authentic.
The Sandpiper itself appears in the book as a favorite hangout for the characters. Known for its quality food and proximity to the water, the restaurant represents the comfort and community Maritza finds during her summer away.
Behind the Scenes Inspiration
One of the most personal elements of the book comes from a real-life photograph. On Rivera’s website, she shares a picture of two teenagers in an acting class. This image inspired a scene where a photo falls out of a book, reconnecting the characters Ariel and Maritza. The photo is actually of Rivera and a friend during their own high school years, performing an engagement scene for a class assignment.
Rivera’s career as a television production teacher also informs her writing process. She uses her technical skills to create commercials for her books, which she shares on social media. This background helps her visualize scenes with a cinematic eye, making the transition from page to mind effortless for the reader.
Event Details
You can meet Maria Rivera and discuss the journey of Maritza Ortega Perez in person.
- Date: Saturday, July 11
- Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Location: The Sandpiper, Cosey Beach Avenue, East Haven, CT
Copies of Dropping Perez and her other work, The Thing About Lily, will be available. For those who cannot attend, Rivera maintains a detailed website at mariariverabooks.com. The site features the “Behind The Scenes” gallery, including the high school photo that started it all. You can also find her work available on Amazon.