We are delighted to present the latest novel from M.L. Lexi, *The Resolute Woman*, a heartwarming and humorous romance rooted in the power of self-discovery. This story introduces Maxine Bassett, a kindergarten teacher whose life is a masterpiece of predictability, but whose patience is worn thin by a chronic problem: her inconsiderate neighbors. Her quiet existence is turned upside down by her brilliant, witty landlady, Edith "Buzzy" Morgan, an eighty-year-old former comedian who proposes the most radical of transformations: coaching Maxine to become a stand-up comic. This unusual path to empowerment gives Maxine the confidence to address her life's frustrations and, most importantly, leads her to an unexpected, gentle romance with her kind colleague, Norman.
This novel is a testament to Lexi's unique ability to weave themes of personal evolution into a compelling love story. As Maxine transforms into her bold alter ego, "Maxi Bass," she learns to reconcile the two sides of herself—the responsible teacher and the risqué performer. Her burgeoning romance with Norman adds delicious complication, forcing Maxine to confront her deepest insecurities and manage a secret life that threatens to clash with her conservative world. The journey is a fun, emotional reminder of M.L. Lexi's core philosophy: that an unforgettable woman is one who takes control of her own narrative. The central theme rings true: **OWN YOUR DESTINY. DON’T LET IT OWN YOU.**
In this exclusive excerpt, we see the foundation of this life-changing transformation, perfectly setting up the conflict and the quirky bond between Maxine and Buzzy. Observe the clash between Maxine’s exhaustion and Buzzy’s enduring sparkle, a dynamic that will drive Maxine’s transformation from a timid teacher to a resolute woman who claims her voice and her destiny. Pre-order your copy today to witness how Maxine Bassett steps into the spotlight and wins the heart of the man who sees both sides of her.
IT WAS SIX thirty in the morning, and the world was silent outside. Eighty-year-old Edith Morgan nicknamed Buzzy for her sharp wit on the comedy stage, had already spent an hour baking. Buzzy wore her trademark brown Capri pants and a loose teal shirt. She wore gold at her neck, ears, and wrist and a wedding ring on her finger. At eighty years old, Edith Morgan was relatively unlined and youthful-looking. She was tall and slim with a commanding presence. Her gray eyes, undimmed by the years, sparkled with the vibrancy and sharp wit that had been her hallmark.
Buzzy’s tenant, Maxine Bassett, leaning on the edge of exhaustion, stumbled into the kitchen and sat at the table. Maxine’s shoulders slumped, and her once vibrant blue eyes carried the weight of countless sleepless nights. “That goddamn dog kept me awake for most of the night... Are you listening to me, Buzzy? Buzzy,” Maxine screamed loud enough to get Buzzy’s attention. Buzzy removed her noise-cancelling headphones. “Sorry, dear. Did you say something?” Maxine reiterated everything she had said with added profanity and summed it up with a frustrated breath. “Are you sure it’s wise to swear as much as you are? One day, you will forget you’re not talking to me and let that salty, immoral city language loose on your pious mother and cause her an aneurysm.” Buzzy set two cups of coffee, creamed and sugared, on the table with a thump when she noticed Maxine dozing off. “Christ, Buzzy.” Maxine raised her head, resting on the folded hands on the table with a jolt. “Was that necessary?”
“The goddamn dog wakes me up every time he barks... so I’ve decided to keep a log. How do you manage to get a good night’s sleep?” “I wear them to bed. You should get a set.” “Two, why should I be forced to wear headphones to maintain my peace of mind at home.” Buzzy nodded in understanding and thought better than to interrupt Maxine’s agitated rant when she rose to pace the room. “You’re the landlord. You should speak to our entitled, selfish, inconsiderate neighbours about it and tell them to get the dog to shut the fuck up before I commit a deadly crime... I can’t take it anymore, Buzzy. If you don’t do anything, I’ll have to hand in my notice to terminate my tenancy.” Buzzy stared at Maxine for a moment before her mouth twitched with amusement. “You and I know you’re not doing that.” Maxine sucked in air and hissed it out. “No. No, I’m not, but only because you’re too generous with my rent, and I couldn’t afford to live elsewhere.”
“What would you have me do?” Buzzy plated two blueberry muffins and brought them to the table. “Call Animal Control and submit a complaint. Talk to Miles and Becca’s parents when they visit.” Maxine sat at the chair she had vacated. “Oh, honey, you’re such an idealist. Where do you think they learned their entitled behaviour? I’ll call Animal Control later today... They’ll tell me the dog has every right to bark as long as it’s not incessantly and often.” “But it is incessant and often,” Maxine snarled. “You need to calm down, dear. Being young does not guarantee that you won’t experience a coronary event.” Buzzy sat. “Animal control will always put the animal’s well-being above that of humans. Eat the muffin.”
“I can’t get a good night’s rest. I’m exhausted. I can’t concentrate. I’m always irritated, stressed, and anxious... I’m cratering here, Buzzy.” “I’ll speak to Becca and Miles again,” Buzzy said. “But you know what they’re going to say.” “Yeah. ‘The idiot dog is a dwog... And dogs bark and have to go potty when they must, regardless of the time of day or night.’” “You really hate that dog,” Buzzy said. ”I don’t hate the dog. The dog is collateral damage to the detestable, thoughtless owners who believe the world revolves around them and to hell with their neighbours.” Maxine’s lips curved into a pleased smile when the clouds opened, and the rain fell thickly. Bobo would not go out to roam on wet soil in the backyard. Fingers crossed, the rain would persist all day as the weather network predicted, and Maxine would get a good night’s sleep tonight.
This book is more than just a funny premise; it is an uplifting exploration of how finding your voice can unlock your destiny and lead you directly to the love you deserve. *The Resolute Woman* is a heartfelt reminder that the greatest love story is often the one you write for yourself. We highly recommend this latest gem from M.L. Lexi. Pre-order your copy today!