Richard L Coates

In Papa's Shadow Richard L Coates

Publisher Marketing: "Hidden inside the nook was a relic of a bygone era: a mechanical typewriter. Above the well used device was a message offering the use of the typewriter to any patron who was feeling the creative urge. Tacked upon the walls of this small recess were the impromptu writings of others: some simple, some dirty, and some profound. I sat in that cramped space for a moment with the curtain drawn; feeling very much like I was in a photo booth... only a photo booth would have been slightly larger and a great deal more comfortable. I wrote the only thing that came to my mind. 'Some people begin living at birth. Some people never live at all. I started living at 35. I will return.' I pulled the paper from the typewriter and hung it in the small cube. It summed up what I was thinking. I hoped that a future traveler would discover it and be inspired. I also hoped that I would find the note on a future visit and be reminded of this moment. I didn't come to Paris looking for Hemingway, but for at least one moment, Hemingway had found me." Rob Cooper was on top of the world. His career, relationships, and life in general had very little to be desired. And then, as so often happens, life suddenly changed. Faced with doubt and uncertainty, Rob is encouraged to leave the familiar behind and to take a much needed vacation to Paris. As anything but a Francophile, Rob sets out to explore the City of Light and to find the answers to life's questions. Rob recounts his experiences through poignant social commentary and humorous cultural observations. From navigating the metro to ordering a cheeseburger, Rob will quickly learn that he is outside of his element. As Rob searches for his purpose in the City of Light, he has to be careful not to get lost in the ever present shadows."