
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.
Click here to get your copy!
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.
Interview with the Author
1)What does success as an author look like to you?
Success to me is completing a scene, a chapter, a book, then going back to reread it and being happy with what I wrote. It may take several drafts and involve some struggles, but when my writing project is finally completed, it gives me satisfaction to know I reached my goals. Having positive comments from my readers especially helps me feel that I succeeded in my writing.
2)What inspired this book?
Many experiences I have had inspired me to write this book. A trip to Bar Harbor, Maine inspired the setting of a New England rocky coastline, hiking trails, and mountain peaks.The themes of overcoming fear, not allowing resentments rule over you, not giving up, and coming to faith in the Lord are all from life experiences. Family love, romantic love, and friendships also inspired me to write this story.
3)What is your favorite Bible verse or life verse?
I have many favorite Bible verses and love to incorporate scriptures in my prayers. The verse from 2 Timothy “He has not given me the spirit of fear but power, love, and a sound mind” encourages me to overcome fear with God’s help. “I will not leave you or forsake you” lets me know He is always with me.
4)What are you reading right now?
I am reading Voices from the Sanitorium by Amy Lynn
Walsh. It’s a fascinating historical fiction book about a hospital for TB patients in the early 1900s. The characters, plot, and setting hold my attention, often keeping me up late at night, which is what a great fiction book should do.
5)Describe your view as you’re sitting in your writing chair.
I am sitting in my home office at my desk. Next to my desk on my filing cabinet is an antique Royal typewriter from 1935 similar to the one my father used as a young journalism student. I also have an antique black phone from the same time period. They are both a nice time contrast to the modern computer and cell phone on my desk. On my wall, I have a black and white print by the artist Escher, a master of optical illusions.
Blog Stops
Stories By Gina, December 10 (Author Interview)
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 11
Simple Harvest Reads, December 12 (Author Interview)
Pause for Tales, December 13
Guild Master, December 14 (Author Interview)
Texas Book-aholic, December 15
Fiction Book Lover, December 16 (Author Interview)
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 17
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, December 18 (Author Interview)
Artistic Nobody, December 18
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 19
A Reader’s Brain, December 20 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 21
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 22 (Author Interview)
Books Less Travelled, December 23
For Him and My Family, December 23
Giveaway
T0 celebrate her tour, Carolyn is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/3edbf/small-town-independence-celebration-tour-giveaway


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