Once in a while a friend asks for a mention, and why not? If I were organized enough, I’d do the same thing! Here’s an introduction to J. Scott Coatsworth’s new release (launching November 30), DOWN THE RIVER:
Nine years have passed since a group of strangers first met at a magical little restaurant in East Sacramento called Ragazzi. They have all been touched by its subtle magic, and have become a family.
With the tragic death of one of them, the ripples spread through the entire group, exposing secrets and revealing truths that many of them would rather not face.
Dave and Marcos are battling their own demons. Matteo seeks an embezzler at Ragazzi, while Diego struggles to hold on to his son, Gio. Carmelina fears Daniele won’t take no for an answer. And both Ben and Sam are dealing with tragic losses that have turned their lives upside down. Into the mix come a few new characters—Ainsley, a Sac State student studying to be a doctor; a mysterious stranger who is stalking someone in the group; and a few new love interests who may have agendas of their own.
It’s 2024, and the cast of River City is back. What secrets will be revealed before the last page turns?
The River City series is a heady blend of secrets, friendships, a little bit of magic, and a bunch of Italian cooking that will warm your heart.
THREE KEY THINGS about DOWN THE RIVER:
This is not a romance novel, though there are several love stories woven through the book. It’s circle-of-friends slice-of-life with a touch of magic, set mostly in contemporary Sacramento, with a detour to Italy.
Potential triggers abound, including references to drug use and homelessness. One scene features a character using physical force to escape sexual assault. More than one character dies, and references to other losses are frequent. A character is struggling financially, with a failing business. A trans character is deadnamed, and several characters have significant fears inspired by political conditions in the US. Finally, one character is losing his sight.
Despite the above cautions, this is a hopeful book full of loving relationships within an extended chosen family. The overall theme is embracing change (which, if you’ve read any of my books, should sound familiar!).
If you’re looking for a vision of modern people coping with modern problems from a place of love, I recommend DOWN THE RIVER.
