Desert of Dreams Series · Book 2 · Carolyn’s story
Reach for Hope
A powerful coming-of-age story about survival, love, and courage.
Book two 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
As the oldest daughter in a troubled military family, Carolyn has spent her life protecting her younger brothers, hiding her fear, and pretending she doesn’t need anyone.
When her family moves to Lake Los Angeles, a remote desert town of Joshua trees and dust devils, Carolyn is determined to keep everyone at a distance. It feels safer that way.
But the girls who become her friends refuse to give up on her.
So does Trevor, the boy who sees past her combat boots and sharp edges to the person beneath.
As friendship, first love, and the quiet beauty of the desert begin to break through Carolyn’s walls, she must decide whether staying silent is really keeping her safe—or keeping her from the future she deserves.
A heartfelt coming-of-age story about friendship, family, first love, courage, and finding your voice.
Praise for Reach for Hope
“engaging… evocative, compelling… thoroughly absorbing.”
— D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
“a wonderfully easy read… a beautiful story… I highly recommend.”
— Grant Leishman for Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)
“A realistic portrayal of a troubled upbringing.”
— Kirkus Reviews
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Ask your local library to order Reach for Hope 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 / Physical & Emotional Abuse (see also Social Themes / Sexual Abuse)
Content Note
Books in the Desert of Dreams Series address sensitive but important topics, including bullying and peer pressure; homophobia; troubled family, friendship, and romantic relationships; divorce; religion; racism and classism; historical events of the late 1980s and 1990s; death; neglect and abuse; trauma; drugs, alcohol, and sex; teen pregnancy; abortion; and mental illness, including depression, suicidal ideation, PTSD, and anxiety.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or is in crisis, please reach out for help. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Reader Resources
Discussion Questions
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