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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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

Do you read books in this genre? If so, who do you like to read?

Yes, I like to read books in this genre including books by Amy Walsh, Beth Wescott, Tamela Hancock Murray, Jenny Knipfer, Angela Hunt, and others. I love to read a good clean romance novel with interesting characters and a plot that includes some suspense. It’s been said that not all books have to have a happy ending, but I do enjoy one with an inspiring take-away value. I have met many authors at writers’ conferences and especially love reading their books after attending a conference with them.

If you could travel back in time, what time period would you go to?

A time period I find interesting is the 1950s. Life seemed simpler then. Kids played more with face-to-face friends rather than video games. People got more exercise and were in better shape physically before the days of cell phones.

What is your favorite hymn and why?

I love many hymns, but a favorite one of mine is Great is Thy Faithfulness. I used to sing it on my way to work. (My voice is not the greatest, but no one would hear me in my car alone.) I loved singing “morning by morning new mercies I see” which got me started off right in the morning reminding me that God is good all the time. “Thou changest not” assures me of His faithfulness.

Share with me a few of your favorite things.

One of my favorite things is getting together with my wonderful friends. Another thing I love is going to writers’ conferences where I get to meet like-minded lovers of books and writing. One of my favorite vacation spots is the beach, which I write about in Small-Town Independence.

What is one question you would like readers to ask you? What would be your answer?

I would like my readers to ask why I write Christian inspirational books. My answer would be to encourage them in their faith. From my experiences, I have learned that God’s love sustains us through difficulties we may face.