Welcome to your exclusive deep dive into the world of Shepherd’s Grove!

DeAnna Kaye Fields is currently having a whirlwind summer with back-to-back releases. Below, she opens up about the emotional weight behind her newest characters, her "pantser" writing habits, and the incredible indie community that helped her bring these stories to life.

1. A Car with Personality

Q: In Golden Hour, Bellamy gives her heart to her patients, her friends, and her beloved Kia Soul named Colonel Mustard. Do you also give your cars dramatic names?

DeAnna: "My cars absolutely DO have dramatic names! In fact, Colonel Mustard was MY yellow Kia Soul, and I loved her! Had to feature her in my first book! My current car, an orange Nissan Rogue, is named Orange Crush!"

2. Real-Life Small Town Charm

Q: What is your absolute favorite thing about Kentucky small-town life that you knew you had to capture in your novels?

DeAnna: "In small-town Kentucky, you will inevitably run into someone you know at Walmart. And if you don’t, you’ll make small talk with someone in line. Or the cashier. Don’t even get me started on the church connections! I absolutely love that part of small-town life!"

3. The Ultimate Writing Fuel

Q: You describe yourself as "hopelessly addicted to Coca-Cola." Is it your ultimate writing fuel?

DeAnna: "Listen, Coca-Cola is now, and forever will be, my go-to drink. I have Coke Hey Dudes (so does Rowena in Grass Is Greener), and when Carnival Cruises switched from Coke to Pepsi about 8 years ago, I sent them a Facebook Message. Now, they have switched back to Coke. You’re welcome Carnival Cruisers!"

4. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book you remember reading that made you fall in love with reading?

DeAnna: "The Outsiders. Hands down. I loved that book so much that to this day, some 30 years later, I still cannot eat bologna because Ponyboy could no longer eat it."

5. The Comfort Read

Q: What is the one book you can re-read over and over again?

DeAnna: "This is going to sound odd, but it's Gone With the Wind. I like to escape back into Tara with Scarlett. I mean, Rhett Butler? Hello!"

6. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: What exciting books are currently hiding in your own TBR pile?

DeAnna: "Valicity Elaine’s Withered Rose series, JB Juke’s Wen Rising... there’s honestly so many! I just went to Indy Lit Con ‘26 and found so many Indie authors I'm wanting to dig into!"

7. Building the Grove

Q: Golden Hour focuses on Edison and Bellamy, while Grass Is Greener shifts to Rowena and Luther. How do these two couples interact within the broader community?

DeAnna: "One of my favorite things about Shepherd's Grove is watching side characters grow into main characters. While Bellamy and Edison aren't front and center in Grass Is Greener, readers will still see familiar faces. Characters pop in and out of each other's lives just like they would in a real small town."

8. Balancing Light and Shadow

Q: In Grass Is Greener, you tackle heavy themes like grief and addiction recovery. How do you balance the cozy safety of a closed-door romance with these emotional struggles?

DeAnna: "No life is perfect, and I want to show that. There are happy, joyous moments in the midst of grief, addiction recovery, or other heavy elements. Love still blooms even if there’s fog or obstacles."

9. Pursuing the Dream

Q: What was the exact spark that made you say, 'It's time to sit down and write these stories'?

DeAnna: "My youngest daughter graduated and got a job and a boyfriend. She wasn’t around much, so I suddenly had more time on my hands. I decided to put that time to good use!"

10. Plotter vs. Pantser

Q: Do you outline everything or fly by the seat of your pants?

DeAnna: "Oh, I’m a pantser who sorta kinda knows the plot. Just today, I completely rewrote book 5 (including the title) while washing my hair! Sometimes the characters take over, but I try to reign them in!"

11. The Writing Setup & Routine

Q: Are you a desk-and-computer writer or a couch-and-laptop writer? Morning bird or night owl?

DeAnna: "I sit in the living room at a TV tray in a chair we got from my mother-in-law. I like being in the living room with my hubby. During the week, I write in the evenings as I still have a full-time job. Saturdays I tend to get started in the afternoons after my husband and I have finished our dilly-dallying."

12. The Hardest Part

Q: What comes easiest atmosphere, banter, or breakthroughs? And what makes you want to pull your hair out?

DeAnna: "It all drifts between easy and difficult. Sometimes I crack myself up with the banter; other times I’m stuck. The emotional breakthroughs can be tough. Book 3, Signed in Red, has some emotional elements that actually made me cry while writing them. That was… difficult."

13. The Cast

Q: If you could spend one day hanging out with any character from your upcoming books, who would it be?

DeAnna: "Grass Is Greener has a dog named Ivy she’s named after a dog we lost, IV. Honestly, I’d love to hang out with Luther’s girl and give her all the pets and cuddles."

14. Double Summer Celebrations

Q: With Golden Hour out July 1st and Grass Is Greener out September 1st, do you have any release-day traditions?

DeAnna: "Well, Golden Hour is my first, so no traditions yet! I am having a launch party at my favorite local bookstore, Main Book Hook, and I hope to make that a tradition! With signings and writing and editing, I may not see much sun this summer!"

A Final Word from DeAnna: "The indie author community is like none other. I've needed help from recommendations to KDP hiccups to joining lives, and multiple people from across all genres and continents have stepped up. They get nothing for it either, just my eternal gratitude. I'm blessed to be a part of this community!"

🔗 Connect with DeAnna Kaye Fields

• Official Website: www.dkfwrites.com

• Socials: @dkfwrites (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads)

• Goodreads: Follow DeAnna's Reviews

Add the Shepherd's Grove Stories to your shelf:

• Read Golden Hour: Amazon Link

• Pre-order Grass Is Greener: Amazon Link

Today, we are featuring the delightful DeAnna Kaye Fields, an author who masterfully captures the warmth and quirkiness of Kentucky life in her romance novels.

If you have ever picked up Golden Hour or Grass Is Greener, you know her stories are packed with heart, humor, and characters that feel like old friends. We sat down with DeAnna to chat about everything from car names to the legendary Coke vs. Pepsi battle on the high seas.

Enjoy part one of our interview below!

1. A Car with Personality

Q: In Golden Hour, Bellamy gives her heart to her patients, her friends, and her beloved Kia Soul named Colonel Mustard. We have to know: do you also give your cars dramatic names, or did the inspiration for Colonel Mustard come from somewhere else?

DeAnna: "My cars absolutely DO have dramatic names! In fact, Colonel Mustard was MY yellow Kia Soul, and I loved her! Had to feature her in my first book! My current car, an orange Nissan Rogue, is named Orange Crush!"

2. Real-Life Small Town Charm

Q: Your bio mentions that Shepherd’s Grove is inspired by beautiful real-world Kentucky towns like Shepherdsville and Hillview. What is your absolute favorite thing about Kentucky small-town life that you knew you had to capture in your romance novels?

DeAnna: "In small-town Kentucky, you will inevitably run into someone you know at Walmart. And if you don’t, you’ll make small talk with someone in line. Or the cashier. Don’t even get me started on the church connections! I absolutely love that part of small-town life!"

3. The Ultimate Writing Fuel

Q: You describe yourself as hopelessly addicted to Coca-Cola, and a shared Coke even pops up as a sweet connection point in Grass Is Greener. Is an ice-cold Coke your ultimate writing fuel, or do you have a specific snack that helps you hit your daily word count?

DeAnna: "Listen, Coca-Cola is now, and forever will be, my go-to drink. I have Coke Hey Dudes (so does Rowena in Grass Is Greener), and when Carnival Cruises switched from Coke to Pepsi about 8 years ago, I sent them a Facebook Message. Now, they have switched back to Coke. You’re welcome Carnival Cruisers!"

4. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book you remember reading that made you absolutely fall in love with reading?

DeAnna: "The Outsiders. Hands down. I loved that book so much that to this day, some 30 years later, I still cannot eat bologna because Ponyboy could no longer eat it. That book has stayed with me all these years."

5. The Comfort Read

Q: What is the one book you can re-read over and over again and never get tired of?

DeAnna: "This is going to sound odd, but it's Gone With the Wind. I like to escape back into Tara with Scarlett. I mean, Rhett Butler? Hello!"

6. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: As someone who loves blind dates with a book and mystery bags, what exciting books are currently hiding in your own TBR pile?

DeAnna: "Oh man… So many! Valicity Elaine’s Withered Rose series, JB Juke’s Wen Rising, there’s honestly so many! I just went to Indy Lit Con ‘26 and found so many Indie authors and their books that I’m wanting to dig into!"

Want Deeper Access? 💎

This is just a small preview of our wonderful conversation with DeAnna Kaye Fields! Premium members of The First Editions can log in now to unlock the complete, unedited Q&A.

Inside the Premium Tier, DeAnna dishes on:

• A deeper look into the inspiration behind Cody's psychological journey.

• Why second-chance romances resonate so deeply with her.

• Her absolute favorite writing routines, snacks, and release-day traditions.

• Her dream day hanging out with one of her own characters in real life.

Connect with DeAnna Kaye Fields

Don't miss out on DeAnna's heartwarming stories! Be sure to grab your copies and follow her journey online:

• Official Website: dkfwrites.com

• Follow on Socials: @dkfwrites (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & Threads)

• Goodreads: DeAnna Kaye Fields Author Page

• Shop Golden Hour: Amazon Link

• Pre-Order Grass Is Greener (eBook): Amazon Link

This is the full-access edition of our Q&A for The First Editions paid members. Thank you for supporting our community! 💎

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Ready to dive deeper into These Empty Places? Whether you're hosting a book club, reading with a friend, or enjoying a quiet solo reading experience, we've created resources to make your journey through Lake Toxaway even more meaningful.

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Whether you're discussing the novel with your book club, sharing it with your favorite reading buddy, or savoring every chapter on your own, these guides are filled with thoughtful prompts, cozy activities, and bookish extras to help you get even more out of Sarah Loudin Thomas's beautiful story of hope, friendship, and second chances.

Happy reading! 📚💙

Some stories don't need dramatic twists or nonstop action to leave a lasting impression. Instead, they quietly settle into your heart, reminding you that healing often happens one small step at a time. These Empty Places by Sarah Loudin Thomas is exactly that kind of novel, a heartfelt historical fiction that blends real history with unforgettable characters and powerful themes of forgiveness, friendship, and finding hope after unimaginable loss.

If your book club enjoys character-driven historical fiction filled with meaningful conversations, this one deserves a spot on your reading list.

A Story Rooted in History

Set against the fascinating backdrop of North Carolina's Lake Toxaway, the novel begins after one of the area's most devastating real-life events, the collapse of the lake's dam. Fourteen years later, America stands on the edge of the Great Depression, and the once-thriving resort community is struggling to rediscover itself.

Sarah Loudin Thomas does an incredible job weaving historical facts into the fictional lives of her characters. Rather than simply telling readers about history, she allows us to experience how ordinary people lived through extraordinary circumstances.

The setting almost becomes a character itself, full of beauty, memories, and the lingering question of whether broken things can truly be restored.

Two Women, Two Different Paths

One of my favorite aspects of this novel is the relationship between Claire Roth and Lena Hawkins.

Claire has spent years convincing herself she made the right choices, sacrificing love in exchange for security and status. Yet beneath her comfortable life lies regret that refuses to disappear.

Lena, on the other hand, has experienced the opposite journey. After marrying for love, everything falls apart when financial ruin leaves her and her husband with almost nothing. Watching her rebuild her life from the ground up makes her incredibly easy to root for.

Although these women come from completely different backgrounds, their friendship grows naturally and becomes the emotional heart of the story. Their conversations, support for one another, and shared desire for a better future create some of the novel's most memorable moments.

Books, Libraries, and New Beginnings

As a book lover, one storyline especially stood out to me.

Claire's dream of building a personal library that provides both employment and education gives the novel an extra layer of warmth. Any reader who believes books can change lives will likely appreciate this part of the story.

The library represents far more than shelves filled with books; it becomes a symbol of hope, opportunity, and investing in a struggling community.

It's difficult not to smile while reading these scenes.

Themes Worth Discussing

This is the kind of novel that naturally sparks meaningful book club conversations.

Some discussion topics include:

• Can we ever truly let go of our past decisions?

• Is security worth sacrificing happiness?

• How much should we allow regret to shape our future?

• Can friendship bridge social and economic differences?

• What role do books and education play in rebuilding communities?

• How do people find hope after financial or personal devastation?

There are plenty of emotional moments throughout the novel, but they're balanced with optimism and grace rather than overwhelming sadness.

Sarah Loudin Thomas's Writing Style

Sarah Loudin Thomas writes with quiet confidence.

Her prose isn't flashy or overly dramatic. Instead, she focuses on rich descriptions, believable dialogue, and emotional authenticity. The pacing is gentle, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the characters and setting.

Readers who enjoy thoughtful historical fiction rather than fast-paced suspense will likely appreciate her storytelling style.

Final Thoughts

I found These Empty Places to be a thoughtful, comforting read that reminds us life rarely follows the path we expect but that doesn't mean hope is lost.

Between its richly researched historical setting, memorable female friendships, themes of forgiveness and second chances, and love of books, this novel offers plenty for readers to enjoy and even more for book clubs to discuss long after the final chapter.

If your book club loves historical fiction with heart, memorable characters, and conversations that continue well after the meeting ends, this is one worth picking up.

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5

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Now I'd love to hear from you!

If you could revisit one place from your past just once would you go back, or would you leave those memories where they are?

As Echoes of Love, the second book in The January Rose Chronicles, prepares to release on June 30th, we sat down with romance author Emily Rose Brlevich to talk about balancing family life and writing, creating rockstar romances, favorite book tropes, music, character inspiration, and the emotional heart behind her stories.

From school pickups and voice memos to tea-fueled writing sessions and original song lyrics, Emily shares an honest look behind the scenes of her writing journey.

1. A Day in the Life Balance

Q: Your bio mentions the beautiful chaos of family life, school runs, and being a brand rep with your daughters. How do you find the quiet moments to slip away into the world of your characters and write?

Emily: This some days, even weeks, can prove extremely difficult. Some days I might only get in half an hour of writing once the housework is done and while I wait for school pickup to arrive.

When things pop into my head and I don't have time to write it into my manuscript, you'll find me scrambling for my phone to either make a voice memo or write it down in my notes until I can get back to my computer.

A lot of the time this happens while I'm shopping or waiting at school pickup. When we have a weekend with nothing planned, which isn't very common, I try to organize an activity or movie for the kids so I can get a little extra time to write or research.

2. The Reality TV Vibe

Q: If the characters from The January Rose Chronicles were forced to go on a reality television show together, which show would it be, and who would win?

Emily: Maybe something like I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!

I think Aries would win because he always seems to be so level-headed in high-stakes situations. But then again, maybe Phoenix would win because he likes to treat everything with a fun attitude and always has a joker side to him.

3. The Glam Factor

Q: As a qualified makeup artist, do you ever find yourself mentally designing the makeup looks or aesthetics for characters like Ariana or Delaney while you're writing them?

Emily: Definitely. I do it all the time and then spend so much time describing them before realizing readers probably don't need a full detailed description.

When writing Ariana's makeup looks, I chose a red lip as her comfort color. For me, it's like body armor and makes me feel powerful, which is exactly what I wanted to portray for Ariana.

4. The Ultimate Romance Mix

Q: If you had to pick romance tropes you'll always auto-buy, what would they be?

Emily: I love a second-chance romance.

I also love bad boy x good girl. My favorite movie is A Walk to Remember and I loved the dynamic between those characters.

I also love a good redemption arc.

And honestly, I have to add one more—the illness trope. If a character is sick and falls in love, I'm there. That trope is my go-to when I need a good cry.

5. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book that made you fall in love with reading?

Emily: I don't remember any specific books. I just always remember loving stories.

Growing up, books were always around me. Even now, I still have some of them and have passed them on to my girls.

6. The Comfort Read

Q: What book can you reread forever?

Emily: I've fallen in love with Siena Trap's books during my reading journey and would happily reread them over and over again.

I've recently started rereading them in audiobook format, which is great because I can listen while still following along with the physical book whenever I want.

7. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: What books are currently waiting on your TBR?

Emily: I'm probably one of the only people in the world who hasn't read the Off-Campus series yet. I know, I know!

They're on my list, along with the Boys of Tommen series and the Chestnut Springs series. Since adaptations are coming, I'd love to read them beforehand.

8. The Soundtrack of Writing

Q: Do you listen to music while writing?

Emily: Surprisingly, no.

When I'm drafting, I usually have a TV show or movie on in the background. Music tends to muddle my thoughts.

When I need songs for my book playlists, I step away from writing and spend time researching songs that fit the mood and characters. Sometimes I'll even look for female covers of songs originally sung by men, or vice versa, depending on the POV character.

I also love that this helps showcase smaller artists trying to make a name for themselves.

9. The Happily Ever After Guarantee

Q: What makes romance your ultimate genre?

Emily: I am a hopeless romantic and I love love.

It sounds corny, but nothing makes me happier than seeing two people in love. I love the warm feeling romance ignites within readers, myself included.

10. From Book One to Book Two

Q: What can readers expect from Echoes of Love?

Emily: Book two dives much deeper into the characters.

Ariana wasn't a huge character in Book One, so readers really get to know her, watch her grow, and see her relationship with Hendrix develop.

Book two also tackles some hard-hitting subjects that artists and rockstars face within the industry, including drugs and alcohol, and how those struggles affect the entire group.

11. The Rockstar Life

Q: What do you enjoy most about writing the contrast between fame and vulnerability?

Emily: The life of a rockstar isn't always sold-out arenas and screaming fans.

Real-life rockstars have quiet, vulnerable moments too, and I wanted to showcase that side of fame. Famous people are still people who deal with things privately, and reminding readers of that is important.

12. Small Towns vs. Big Lights

Q: How much of your own perspective influences Ana's story in Kissing in the Spotlight?

Emily: Honestly, my idea of a small town came mostly from movies.

Australia's version of a small town feels different than the American version. My interpretation was based on imagining what that experience would be like.

13. The Early Spark

Q: Have any of your childhood poems or song lyrics made their way into your books?

Emily: Not directly.

However, I have incorporated my songwriting skills into my books. Every book contains original lyrics.

One of the songs in Melodies of the Heart was actually written with help from my daughter, who wanted to learn about my songwriting process.

Writing lyrics from a character's perspective is much harder than people realize because you're writing from experiences that belong to fictional people rather than yourself.

14. Plotter vs. Pantser

Q: How do you approach a new project?

Emily: I have a document where I outline the characters and plans. I include images of what I think they'll look like and continue adding to it as I write.

I know where I generally want the story to go, but sometimes the characters take me somewhere unexpected and I have to go back and adjust my plans.

I already have ideas written down for a brand-new series once The January Rose Chronicles is complete.

15. The Writing Setup & Routine

Q: What does your writing space look like?

Emily: My desk is currently a fold-out table in my living room, and honestly, it's perfect.

I like having the TV on while I write, and being in the living room makes it easy to write a few lines here and there between chores and taking care of the kids.

I don't really have a set creative time because inspiration shows up whenever it wants to.

16. The Fuel

Q: Coffee, tea, or something else?

Emily: Tea. Always tea.

There is always a cup of tea beside me when I'm writing.

17. The Hardest Part

Q: What comes easiest to you, and what is the most difficult part of writing?

Emily: The hardest part is definitely writing intimate scenes.

I don't want them to be boring, but I also don't want them to feel unrealistic. Since my books aren't dark romances, I don't want those scenes to suddenly feel completely different from the rest of the story.

The easiest part is coming up with plot ideas. I always have a million story ideas running through my head. I also love creating characters.

18. The Cast

Q: If you could spend one day with one of your characters, who would it be?

Emily: That's such a hard choice.

Probably Phoenix. His story hasn't been told yet, but from what readers have seen so far, he's fun, charming, and I know he has a deeper story beneath the surface.

Although honestly, I'd love to spend a day with all of January Rose. Their love of music and brotherhood would be amazing to experience.

19. Writing Healing

Q: Your books tackle trauma, healing, and loyalty. How do you balance those heavier themes with hope and romance?

Emily: I believe everyone deserves a happy ending.

It can be difficult knowing where to draw the line between trauma and romance, but that's part of the art of being a writer.

Book two is definitely heavier emotionally, and I had to make sure those moments remained grounded in contemporary romance without becoming too dark.

Some of the emotions I draw from come from my own experiences. While the events may not have happened to me personally, I use those emotions to help shape what my characters feel.

20. The June 30th Countdown

Q: What does release day look like for you?

Emily: Honestly, it usually feels like a normal day except for the endless butterflies.

My girls are excited for me, but they don't fully understand what publishing a book means. My husband is proud of me, but he's not a reader, so he doesn't quite share the excitement either.

I struggle with celebrating my successes. That probably comes from childhood and never really feeling celebrated for achievements.

It's heartbreaking but honest.

I do usually treat myself to something small, though. A chocolate is always a good choice.

Where to Find Emily Rose Brlevich

🌐 Website: www.emilyrosebrlevichwrites.com

📚 Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/ebrlevichauthor

📖 Pre-Order Echoes of Love: https://amzn.asia/d/09oVspCS

🛒 Previous titles are available through Amazon.

Final Note

In addition to writing her novels, Emily has also taught herself how to create her own character art, which she uses to bring the cast of The January Rose Chronicles to life.

As Echoes of Love approaches its June 30th release, we can't wait to see where the music, romance, and heart of this series take readers next.

We are incredibly excited to welcome small-town romance author Emily Rose Brlevich to the blog today! As a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic who simply loves love, Emily writes heartfelt stories filled with hope, healing, and deep emotional connection. With her highly anticipated rockstar romance, Echoes of Love Book 2 in The January Rose Chronicles, hitting shelves on June 30th, we sat down to talk about her creative process, favorite tropes, and how she balances writing with the beautiful chaos of family life.

For our free community members, here is your exclusive look into Emily's writing world, featuring the complete 9-question Q&A!

The Q&A Preview with Author Emily Rose Brlevich

1. A Day in the Life Balance

Q: Your bio mentions the beautiful chaos of family life, school runs, and being a brand rep with your daughters. How do you find the quiet moments to slip away into the world of your characters and write?

Emily: Some days, even weeks, can prove extremely difficult! Some days I might only get in half an hour of writing once the housework is done and while I wait for school pickup to arrive. When things pop into my head and I don't have time to write them into my manuscript, you will find me scrambling for my phone to either make a voice memo or write it down in my notes until I get a chance to get back to my computer. A lot of the time, this happens when I am out shopping or waiting to pick up the kids from class. When we have a weekend with nothing planned, which isn't very common, I do try to organize the kids with an activity or a movie so I can get a little extra time on the computer to write or do research.

2. The Reality TV Vibe

Q: You love unwinding with reality TV! If the characters from The January Rose Chronicles were forced to go on a reality television show together, which show would it be, and who would win?

Emily: Maybe something like I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! I think Aries would win; he always seems to be so level-headed in high-stakes situations. But then again, maybe Phoenix, because he likes to treat everything with a fun take and always has a jokester attitude about himself!

3. The Glam Factor

Q: As a qualified makeup artist, do you ever find yourself mentally designing the makeup looks or aesthetics for characters like Ariana or Delaney while you're writing them?

Emily: I definitely do all the time! I'll spend so much time describing them until I realize that readers probably don't necessarily need a full, detailed description, lol. When writing Ariana's makeup options, I specifically chose a red lip as her comfort color. For myself, a red lip is like body armor. It makes me feel powerful, which is exactly what I wanted portrayed for Ariana.

4. The Ultimate Romance Mix

Q: Your bio mentions a love for romance and rom-coms. If you had to pick three fictional tropes that you will always auto-buy or read, what are they?

Emily: I do love a second-chance romance, and I'm a big fan of bad boy x good girl. My favorite movie is A Walk to Remember. I just loved the dynamic of the main characters in that story. I also love a good redemption arc. Actually, I have to throw in one more, which is the illness trope. If a character is sick and falls in love, I am there! That trope is my absolute go-to when I need a good cry.

5. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book you remember reading that made you absolutely fall in love with reading?

Emily: I don't remember any specific titles, I just always remember loving stories. Growing up, I always had books around me. In fact, I still have some of my childhood books today, which I've been able to pass down to my girls.

6. The Comfort Read

Q: What is the one book you can re-read over and over again and never get tired of?

Emily: I have fallen completely in love with Siena Trap, a fellow indie author, during my reading journey. I would happily reread her books over and over again. I have actually just started re-reading them as audiobooks, but the good thing is I can follow along in the physical copy when I feel like I want the book in my hand, too.

7. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: What books are currently sitting on your nightstand waiting to be read next?

Emily: I'm probably one of the only people in the world right now who hasn't read any of the Off-Campus series by Elle Kennedy. I know, I know! They are firmly on my TBR list. There are also a couple of other series with adaptations coming soon or just announced that I want to try and read beforehand, like the Boys of Tommen series and the Chestnut Springs series.

8. The Soundtrack of Writing

Q: Music plays a massive role in both Melodies of the Heart and Echoes of Love. Do you listen to specific playlists or rock music when you are drafting, or do you need absolute silence?

Emily: When drafting and writing, I actually have the TV on with a show or a movie playing in the background. I don't like listening to music while writing because it muddles my head. However, because my books have playlists to accompany them, when I feel like a song match for a specific scene is needed, I step away from writing to research. I spend time listening to find the right aesthetic for the storyline. For example, if a chapter is in a female POV but the original song I like is written by a male artist, I will search for covers, or vice versa. I feel like this is also a great way to showcase smaller, independent artists trying to make a name for themselves!

9. The Happily Ever After Guarantee

Q: What is it about the "quiet magic of two people finding their way to each other" that makes romance your ultimate genre to write?

Emily: I am a hopeless romantic and I just love, love! It sounds corny, I know, but nothing makes me feel better than seeing two people in love. I love the warm, cozy feeling that romance ignites within readers, myself included.

Coming June 30th: Echoes of Love

While Book 1, Melodies of the Heart, introduced readers to Aries and Delaney, the upcoming Echoes of Love shifts the spotlight to Hendrix and Ariana. Readers can look forward to deeper character development, immense emotional growth, and a poignant storyline that explores some of the difficult realities and struggles artists face behind the scenes.

The Story: Echoes of Love is a heart-gripping story of trauma, healing, loyalty, and a love that refuses to fade. A love that lingers through the hurt, the triumphs, and the quiet moments that change everything. A love that doesn’t disappear. It forever echoes.

Want Deeper Access? 💎

This is just a small preview of our wonderful conversation with Emily! The First Editions, can log in now to read our massive, exclusive 20-question interview.

Inside Emily dishes on:

• Deep-dive, behind-the-scenes world-building details for The January Rose Chronicles.

• How she balances heavy themes like trauma and healing with bright, hopeful romance.

• More details on her daily writing routine, her tea obsession, and her creative process.

• Exclusive character secrets you won't find anywhere else!

Connect with Emily Rose Brlevich

Don't miss out on Hendrix and Ariana's emotional journey! Secure your copy before June 30th and follow Emily online:

• Pre-Order Echoes of Love: Amazon AU Store Link (Can be easily adjusted to your preferred local Amazon store)

• Shop Previous Books: All titles are available on Amazon

• Follow Emily: Website | Goodreads | Instagram | Threads

There's something magical about seeing a favorite book come to life on screen especially when that book is a beloved college romance like The Deal by Elle Kennedy.

When Prime Video announced Off Campus, fans of the bestselling series immediately started wondering: Would Garrett and Hannah feel the same? Would the chemistry translate? And how closely would the adaptation follow the book that launched so many readers into their hockey romance era?

Let's dive into the similarities, differences, and book club discussion points surrounding The Deal and its television adaptation.

🏒 The Story at the Heart of Both Versions

At its core, both The Deal and Off Campus tell the story of Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham.

Hannah is a talented music major carrying emotional baggage that has made relationships difficult. Garrett is Briar University's star hockey player whose academic struggles threaten his future on the ice.

When Garrett convinces Hannah to tutor him in exchange for pretending to date her, what begins as a mutually beneficial arrangement slowly turns into something much more meaningful.

The fake dating trope, opposites-attract chemistry, found family friendships, and personal growth remain the foundation of both the novel and the television series.

📖 What Readers Loved About The Deal

One reason The Deal became such a fan favorite is the balance between humor, romance, and emotional depth.

Readers often praise:

• Garrett's confidence mixed with genuine vulnerability

• Hannah's strength and personal growth

• The witty banter between the main characters

• The strong friendship dynamics among the hockey team

• The emotional themes woven into the romance

The novel gives readers direct access to Hannah and Garrett's thoughts, making their emotional journey feel especially intimate.

📺 How Off Campus Brings the Story to Life

The Prime Video adaptation expands the world of Briar University by leaning into the ensemble cast and campus atmosphere.

While Season 1 focuses primarily on Hannah and Garrett's romance, viewers also get more opportunities to see the friendships, rivalries, and team dynamics that make the Off-Campus universe so popular.

The series embraces the college-drama format, blending romance, friendship, hockey, and coming-of-age moments in a way that feels approachable for both longtime fans and newcomers.

🔍 Biggest Differences Between the Book and Show

1. Expanded Supporting Characters

One of the most noticeable changes is the amount of screen time given to supporting characters.

In the novel, the focus stays tightly on Hannah and Garrett. The television adaptation broadens the spotlight, allowing viewers to connect with other characters who may become central figures in future seasons.

2. Visual Storytelling Changes

Books allow readers to spend time inside a character's head. Television relies on performances, dialogue, and visual cues instead.

Some emotional moments may feel different simply because the show has to show rather than tell.

3. Updated Campus Dynamics

Like many modern adaptations, Off Campus updates certain aspects of campus life and social interactions to better fit today's television audience while maintaining the spirit of the original story.

4. Pacing

Readers can spend hours immersed in Hannah and Garrett's developing relationship. The television series must condense story beats into episodes, which can make certain moments feel faster or more streamlined.

❤️ Did the Chemistry Survive the Adaptation?

For many fans, this is the most important question.

The success of The Deal has always depended on the connection between Hannah and Garrett. Their banter, emotional growth, and slow-building trust are what elevate the story beyond a typical fake dating romance.

While every reader imagines characters differently, the adaptation succeeds when it captures the emotional heart of their relationship: two people helping each other become stronger versions of themselves.

🏆 Book Club Verdict Categories

Rate each category from 1–5 stars:

⭐ Hannah's Character Development

⭐ Garrett's Character Development

⭐ Chemistry Between the Leads

⭐ Faithfulness to the Book

⭐ Supporting Characters

⭐ Briar University Atmosphere

⭐ Hockey Representation

⭐ Overall Entertainment Value

💬 Discussion Questions

1. Did Hannah and Garrett match the versions you imagined while reading?

2. Which scenes felt most faithful to the book?

3. Were there any changes you actually preferred in the television adaptation?

4. Did the expanded focus on supporting characters improve the story?

5. Which character surprised you the most on screen?

6. If you've never read the book, did the show make you want to pick it up?

7. What are you hoping to see in Season 2?

8. Which Off-Campus couple are you most excited to see adapted next?

📚 Final Thoughts

Whether you're a longtime fan of The Deal or discovered Briar University through Prime Video's Off Campus, both versions offer plenty to love.

The novel delivers an intimate, character-driven romance filled with heart, humor, and growth, while the television series expands the world and introduces a new audience to Hannah and Garrett's unforgettable story.

For book clubs, this adaptation creates the perfect opportunity to compare what works on the page versus what shines on screen and debate which version scored the winning goal.

Now it's your turn: Team Book or Team Show?

1. The Nagging Character

Q: In your bio, you shared how your character, Carmindy, essentially refused to leave your head until you finally wrote her story. Did Cody from The Long Way Home take over your brain in a similar movie scene style, or did his story come to you differently?

A: All of my books are shown to me as a movie in my head. But Cody was a very minor side character in Carmindy's book Someone To Watch Over Me. He was the long-lost brother at the wedding, and one of my beta readers told me that he needed a story because he was a mystery. So I did try to force his story because I knew people wanted it. It didn't work and took a lot longer for him to manifest than any of the other characters did.

2. The Co-Writer

Q: Tell us a little bit about your Great Pyrenees, Bella Love!

A: She's my giant office speed bump. She hangs out, and I bounce ideas or dialogue off of her. I think she couldn't care less as long as she gets a snack every few hours. She also keeps the kids from bothering me while I write.

3. Sports Fanatic Fiction

Q: Have you ever considered writing a sports romance?

A: I hadn't even read a sports romance until I read my friends Jenny Proctor and Emma St. Clair's hockey series. I haven't really thought about writing one, but I'm definitely not opposed to giving it a go.

4. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book that made you fall in love with reading?

A: Charlotte's Web. Growing up on a farm, I found a girl like me. It was the first book that didn't earn a big eye roll when my mom assigned summer reading.

5. The Comfort Read

Q: What book can you reread forever?

A: Jana DeLeon's Miss Fortune Mysteries. I reread all 27 books while waiting for the next release.

6. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: What's waiting on your nightstand?

A: Jenny Proctor's boy band series. I just wish I had more time to read.

7. The Rookie Crossover

Q: Which character would survive an episode of The Rookie?

A: Definitely Cody. Smith would provide comic relief.

8. From Covert Ops to Houston

Q: What drew you to themes of rebuilding identity and belonging in The Long Way Home?

A: When readers meet Cody in the first book, it's obvious something major happened that caused him to leave. I wanted to explore the realities of long deployments, secrets, and the strain military life can place on relationships.

9. The Allure of the Second Chance

Q: Why do second-chance romances resonate so strongly?

A: I think everyone has experienced a relationship that ended badly and wondered if things could have turned out differently.

10. Switching Gears to Chilling Truths

Q: How do you transition between romance and darker stories?

A: The Brooks Spencer Journal was actually a challenge I gave myself. I wrote it over a weekend to provide more insight into Carmindy's stalker.

11. Music as a Narrative Tool

Q: What research went into Finding My Way Back?

A: A tremendous amount. I consulted medical professionals and learned about performance psychologists while researching injury recovery.

12. Plotter vs. Pantser

Q: How do you approach a new project?

A: I wait until I can see the story unfolding like a movie in my head. Then I start taking notes.

13. The Writing Setup & Routine

Q: What's your writing routine?

A: I have an office now, but I've written everywhere from my couch to work. I write whenever life allows, especially now that we're busy grandparents!

14. The Fuel

Q: Coffee, tea, or something else?

A: Definitely not coffee. Sprite, Cherry 7Up, water, popcorn, and Riesen caramel candies.

15. The Hardest Part

Q: Favorite and least favorite part of being an author?

A: I love developing characters and their little quirks. I absolutely hate social media marketing.

16. The Cast

Q: Which character would you spend a day with?

A: Smith. We'd go horseback riding and explore Houston.

17. The July 1st Countdown

Q: How will you celebrate release day?

A: My partner usually takes me out for dinner and orders an outrageous dessert while telling everyone it's release day.

Follow Renee Curtis

Website: ReneeCurtisBooks.com

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A Final Note From Renee

"I just want to say thanks to everyone who's taken a chance on a total unknown author. And thank you ladies for giving me a chance to let people get to know me a little better."