Who We Are

ABOUT BOOK AUTHOR

Laurie Byrne Smith grew up in the 1950s in New Bern, North Carolina, surrounded by sweet tea, BBQ, and southern charm. Her deep roots in Eastern North Carolina inspired her writing and storytelling. After moving to Florida in 1995, she wrote a popular humor column reflecting on southern life and traditions, later published as Observations of a Transplanted Southern Belle. Married to a fellow New Bern native, Laurie now lives in the North Carolina Mountains with her husband Byron, where she continues writing with emotions, humor, and a true Southern spirit.

Laurie Byrne

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My Books

PETEY VANISHED!

About The Book

Petey Vanished!: A Novel of Southern Proportions takes readers back to the charming yet complicated world of 1950s Southern life. When JoBeth returns to her hometown to close up the family home, she uncovers long-buried secrets tied to a mystery that haunted her childhood. Petey Shiner, a neighborhood boy, disappeared one sunny afternoon and was never seen again. “I can’t find Petey. He’s not home yet…” begins the heart-stopping call that changes everything. As JoBeth and childhood friend Billy reconnect, they unravel not just the mystery of Petey, but also old emotions. 

 

The novel captures the beauty of front porch summers, childhood innocence, and the dark shadows that can linger. It’s a nostalgic, gripping story of love, loss, and long-held questions

What We Do

In the stillness of the Governor's Road, one child's disappearance shattered a thousand childhoods

Petey was supposed to come straight home from school. But by four o’clock, he was still missing. “Hyacinth, hang up and call the police,” Betty said, panic in her voice. That moment changed the whole neighborhood. The search began right away…neighbors calling out, flashlights sweeping through yards and woods. No one wanted to believe something terrible had happened.

 

Now, standing in her old living room, JoBeth opened a dusty trunk filled with old photos, toys, and letters. She felt the mystery calling her back. It was time to find the truth.

TESTIMONIALS

What Our Clients Have To Say

Reminded me of Before We Were Strangers and The Secret Life of Bees. It’s part mystery, part love story, and full-on Southern warmth. I felt like I was right there in that humid 1950s neighborhood. Petey’s story will stick with me for a long time. Totally recommend!

Daniella Jones.