Author Charlie David visits the myFM studio - Photo by Emily Chatwood / myFM News
A new novel inspired by Greater Napanee is giving readers a mix of romance, mystery, music and small-town life while shining a spotlight on the community that helped shape its story.
Toronto author Charlie David said Bless This Hot Mess was born after he decided to step back from his career in television and film to pursue a creative passion. The producer and director said writing the novel became a healing experience.
Although originally from Yorkton, Saskatchewan, David said he found many similarities between his hometown and Greater Napanee. After spending several Thanksgivings in the area with friends, renting a cottage along the Napanee river, he decided it would be the perfect setting for his first novel.
The story follows a struggling small-town radio station that launches a talent competition to save itself. The winning act, a Christian band that rewrites pop songs with faith-based lyrics, sparks new conversations and renewed interest from listeners while uncovering a mystery.
The book is available at Sweet William in Napanee, Books on Main in Bath, Novel Idea in Kingston, Beggars Banquet Books in Gananoque, Indigo stores and other retailers across the country.
David said a sequel is teased at the end of this book, Bless This Hell Yes, which is already planned and will once again be set in the Greater Napanee area.
Written by Emily Chatwood
