About the Book

Book: Small-Town Independence

Author: Carolyn Oravitz

Genre: Christian Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: July 1, 2025

In the charming New England seaside town of Independence, Amanda Gibson came to start over—not fall in love.

Still healing from a painful breakup, Amanda’s only plans involve reopening her late Aunt Helen’s quaint beachside resort and proving to herself she can stand on her own. But Independence has other ideas—starting with Clark Miller, her once-boyish crush turned unexpectedly irresistible local hero.

Clark’s easy smile and steady kindness threaten the careful walls Amanda has built, just as a string of unsettling incidents suggests someone wants her new life—and her business dreams—to fall apart. As Clark offers his help, Amanda must decide whether she’s ready to trust again—not just in romance, but in God’s greater plan.

When secrets from the past begin to surface and danger creeps closer, Amanda will have to face more than just her fears. She’ll have to fight for the truth, the resort, and a second chance at love she never expected.

A heartwarming blend of romance, mystery, and faith, Small-Town Independence is perfect for readers who love clean Christian love stories with a touch of suspense, coastal charm, and hope that endures.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book and all opinions given are my own and not an endorsement of all author’s opinions.

Author Interview

● What was the most challenging part of writing your book? A challenge for me was determining what action to start this book with in order to avoid dumping a lot of background information at the beginning. Thinking of ways to “show don’t tell" was a challenge at times. Also, my first draft had more characters, so I needed to eliminate some to keep my focus on the plot without unnecessary rabbit trails that didn't move the story forward.

● What was the most enjoyable part of writing your book? I got the idea for this book the last night of my vacation at a New England coastline. It was exciting for me then to start rapidly jotting down my ideas for the plot, characters, and setting. I looked forward to getting home to work more on this book; a good ending to a nice vacation.

● How do you weave Biblical truths into your writing? It’s very important not to just tack some scriptures into a story which may seem forced or awkward. They have to be woven into the plot at the appropriate times and places. Before I started this book, I knew the biblical truths I wanted to emphasize and used dialogue and characters’ actions to make those points. I would add that it’s important to not sound preachy, which readers don’t like.

● Do you have a favorite time of day you are most productive in your writing? I’ve gotten into the habit of writing late afternoon and early evenings because of working another job during the day. Sometimes I get ideas or inspiration at the most inconvenient times like when taking a shower, driving my car, or waking up in the middle of the night. I’ve actually recorded my voice when I’m driving so I don’t forget my ideas.

● What is your next big goal as an author? My present goal is to finish my historical fiction book and share it at local historical society events especially during anthracite coal month. My long term goals include adding more books to my early reader Big Bob and Little Louie book series and starting another contemporary fiction romance. Another goal is to get out and do more book signings. I love interacting with readers and answering questions about my books.

About the Author

Carolyn Oravitz is a writer, speaker, and cancer survivor who brings heart and hope to the stories she writes. Holding teaching certificates in English and Art, she enjoyed years inspiring creativity in the classroom. Her past writing included literature guides for elementary and middle school students and writing feature articles for a local publication.

In addition to her love of writing and art, she loves hiking, taking part in events at her church, and spending time with her friends and family.

Her other published works include: Yet Will I Hope in Him and What If It Is, two heartfelt reflections on surviving cancer, Write for Publication – Twenty Lessons to Improve Your Writing, which she and others have used as a textbook for writing classes and workshops, and Small Town – Independence, a suspenseful contemporary Christian romance novel. She is presently working on a historical novel blending her passion for the past with her gift of vivid storytelling.

More from Carolyn

I was inspired to write this story after a visit to Bar Harbor, Maine. I loved exploring the rocky coast and hiking trails, and I was fascinated by the mix of grand Victorian mansions and charming cottages. The view from the summit was unforgettable—we caught an incredible sunrise there and even joined an outdoor church service. The whole experience left me both refreshed and inspired, and it became the spark behind this story.