Desert of Dreams Series · Book 1 · Kiara’s story
Dare to Dream
Some stories don’t just entertain—they remind you who you were.
Book one in the Desert of Dreams Series—standalone stories of friends in a small desert town (1980s–’90s) discovering resilience, courage, and hope.
About the Book
Two facts about Lake Los Angeles: one, there’s no lake, and, two, it’s nowhere near Los Angeles.
That’s where Kiara ends up after her parents’ divorce—in the middle of nowhere—a land of Joshua trees, dust devils, and tumbleweeds. Her mom calls it affordable housing; Kiara calls it hell.
Growing up in the 1980s and 90s, she drifts through life trying to please everyone—her mother who struggles to show affection, her brother who barely hides his contempt, and friends who aren’t what they seem.
When she meets green-eyed Cole, she discovers the spark to seek out more from life. Escaping the town that’s suffocating her is her only option. But leaving means trusting herself and letting go of things she’s terrified of losing.
There is a life beyond the desert. Can she dare to dream a way out?
Praise for Dare to Dream
“a wonderful coming-of-age story… a powerful and very worthy read.”
— Jamie Michele for Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)
“exceptional… a treasure trove of thought-provoking insights”
— D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
“deeply compelling, moments of warmth and humor… a heartfelt tale of resilience and hope.”
— Publishers Weekly BookLife
Awards & Recognition
Dare to Dream — The BookFest Fall 2026 Honorable Mention, Young Adult: Literary & Coming of Age
Dare to Dream — The BookFest Fall 2026 Honorable Mention, Young Adult: Girls & Women
Buy / Borrow / Request
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Ask your local library to order Dare to Dream by Amanda LaPera. You can provide the ISBNs and publisher information below when making your request.
Book Details
Publisher: Adamo Press
BISAC Codes
- YAF011000 YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Coming of Age
- YAF022000 YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Girls & Women
- YAF058220 YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Social Themes / Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance
Content Note
This novel addresses sensitive topics including bullying and peer pressure; racism and racial injustice; religious conflict; divorce, parental abandonment, neglect, and family conflict; generational trauma and emotional abuse; discussions of physical and sexual abuse; controlling and unhealthy relationships; depression; alcohol; teen pregnancy; abortion; and strong language.
Reader Resources
Discussion Questions
Discussion questions are available for book clubs, classrooms, and reading groups.
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