coming of age

Third Wheel by Richard R. Becker

Third Wheel is an exhilarating coming-of-age thriller about belonging, betrayal, and breaking away. It is the story of a boy trying to find his identity without the benefit of clear role models. He takes chances on random and fragile relationships forged in the pre-boom hours of Las Vegas, 1982.

Brady Wilks is remarkable as a transformative protagonist. He must make tough decisions as his friends try to navigate a dangerous path selling cartel-supplied drugs.

Four-time award-winning author Richard R. Becker once again shares his unique insight into the human condition. Desolate and gritty, Third Wheel is a triumphant debut novel.

Do You Believe in Magic? by Jim Melvin

By Book Lovers Magazine

Do You Believe in Magic? by Jim Melvin

“Transcends fiction and fantasy by exploring the struggles of those coming of age.” —Chris Worthy, Upstate Parent magazine

~~~

From the author of “The Death Wizard Chronicles” comes a new adventure suitable for teens and adults.

“Do You Believe in Magic?” is book 1 of “Dark Circles,” a fantasy series for readers 13 and older. This is a great coming of age series for fans of J.K. Rowling, Neil Gaiman, and Brandon Sanderson.

After discovering a magical waterfall deep in the forest, a boy and his dog embark on an epic adventure in a fantastical world filled with monsters and magic.

In the real world, Charlie is a 13-year-old nerd picked on by bullies. But in the fantasy world, he becomes a wizard wielding formidable powers.

Standing in his way is a vile monster bent on destruction.

Only those with a hero’s heart will have the courage to stand at Charlie’s side when the war begins.

~~~

“Be prepared for a full-blown launch into a fantasy realm loaded with magic, monsters, courageous acts, and a dash of sweet romance.” —Chris Harold Stevenson, award-winning author of fantasy and paranormal tales

“If the first book of this new series is any indication, you are in for a big treat and wild fantasy ride.” —Dave Scheiber, nationally renowned journalist and author

“Melvin shows his literary mastery as he weaves elements of potential and transformation.” —Ann Allen, The Charlotte Observer

Grim Daze (The Grim Chronicles Book 2) by D.R. Martin

By Book Lovers Magazine

Grim Daze (The Grim Chronicles Book 2) by D.R. Martin

I intended the Grim Chronicles series for young adult fans of Harry Potter, Narnia, and Redwall. Book two continues the magical adventures of Howl, the boy wizard, and his human and animal companions in their battle for freedom. As new evils come to Grimsland, they must find new allies, stand with old foes, and tap into unimagined wonders. The story also includes chapter illustrations of scenes and characters. Your feedback is vital to improve the series. All reviews are welcome and appreciated.

Beyond the Song by Carol Selick

By Book Lovers Magazine

Beyond the Song by Carol Selick

“Beyond the Song” is an autobiographical novel, based on the author’s coming of age in the ‘sixties and early ‘seventies. A singer-songwriter like her alter-ego Carol Marks, Carol Selick begins each chapter with lyrics she wrote and still performs today.
There’s a lot of nostalgia for that time period. In many ways, my character’s search for her voice expresses the search of a whole generation of women. The settings in New York and Berkeley, are immediately recognizable. Drugs, sex, and rock ‘ roll provide a provocative landscape for Carol’s journey into womanhood.

April’s Heart by Shilah Ferr

By Book Lovers Magazine

April’s Heart by Shilah Ferr

Autumn 1977. Thirteen year old cheerleader April Schweiter falls hard for Mitch Hudgins, putting an end to childhood and changing her life forever. April embarks on a coming of age journey full of angst and unanswered questions. And her dysfunctional family is only one of the problems in her way.

Classmate and wrestler Mitch Hudgins can’t get enough of April either. She stirs in him surprising passion that is new, unfamiliar and needs to be explored.

But they say goodbye when they attend schools in different towns, far away from each other. Surely staying together wouldn’t have a chance of working out. But they were crazy for each other! Would breaking up have a chance of working out?

“You guys are the nicest friends anyone could have!” April choked down a sob. She was still emotional at the realization of the future of her romance with the guy who took her virginity, the guy who once told her he loved her, the guy she fought for, the guy with whom she was really very happy with. She was heartbroken but didn’t know it yet.