Gina Marie Long Boekhout has always liked the paranormal, science fiction and world of fantasy.
“The thought of other beings in the world is so intriguing. Having such close contact with them, developing relationships, dealing with the good vs. the evil, it sweeps you away into another reality — an escape from real life,” said Boekhout.
It is that supernatural world that inspired this cosmetologist from rural Highland to pen her first novel, “Unknown Touch: Werewolf Series-Book One.” “It is a paranormal /thriller/ romance,” said Boekhout, who uses Long, her maiden name, as her pen name.
In the book, Kara McBride is violently abducted by a secret group of diversely skilled humans, who have discovered her astounding psychic power to manipulate thought, and they persuade her to join their covert operation. Kara’s abilities are vital to the success of saving a small group of werewolves from self destruction.
In the tiny town of Hamlin, Ky., a few rogue werewolves have split off from the main pack and committed crimes against humans, bringing unwanted attention to the area, and risking their hidden existence from society. Kara will create mental connections with the wolves in an attempt to calm their aggression. But, in the midst of chaos, a love triangle develops and Kara must make a heart-wrenching choice between a human...or a werewolf. Her decisions could be life-altering for her and others as she delves into the unknown.
“The reader momentarily forgets that the characters are fictional. They believe and want them to be real,” Boekhout said.
Boekhout, who owns a beauty salon in her hometown of Marine, bounced ideas for the book off her loyal customers, who gave encouraging feedback.
She finally sat down and started writing in April and finished her novel in July. Many late nights and spare time over weekends, produced the end result. Family members helped proofread the manuscript, while Long began the submission process. On Sept. 15 her book was accepted for publication by Black Rose Writing. It was released Oct. 22.
The book is available for purchase from www.blackrosewriting.com or any online bookstores, including the Ingram book catalog. Local bookstores may have the novel on their shelves, but if not available, they can order it via the website. More information can also be found at www.ginamarielong.com.
Boekhout is planning two local book signings. The first will be from 1 to 3 p.m. on Nov. 7 at the Marine library, 202 East Silver St. in Marine. The other will be from 1 to 3 p.m. on Nov. 14 at Box TV and Video, 100 Woodcrest in Highland.