By: Patrick Hansel
Love has long been the subject of literature, but Patricia Leavy’s Shooting Stars Above takes romance to an entirely new level, blending passion, resilience, and the healing power of love into a breathtaking narrative. The first book in The Celestial Bodies Romances series, Shooting Stars Above is more than just a love story—it’s a deeply emotional journey of two wounded souls who find solace and transformation in each other.
A Love Story Written in the Stars
At the heart of Shooting Stars Above are Tess Lee and Jack Miller, two characters who are as deeply flawed as they are compelling. Tess is an internationally renowned novelist, celebrated for her ability to capture human struggle and triumph in her books. Despite her literary success, she wrestles with personal demons stemming from a traumatic childhood marred by abuse. On the other hand, Jack is a federal agent whose career in counterterrorism has exposed him to darkness and violence, leaving him emotionally guarded and disconnected from the world.
When Tess and Jack cross paths in a dimly lit bar, an instant, undeniable connection sparks between them. Their love story unfolds with an intensity that feels both raw and poetic. As they embark on a journey together, they face their past traumas, allowing love to be a source of healing and hope. Patricia Leavy masterfully weaves a tale of emotional vulnerability, proving that even the most broken hearts can find solace in another.
The Inspiration Behind the Novel
Patricia Leavy is no stranger to writing about deep human emotions. An accomplished author, known for her socially conscious fiction and arts-based research, Leavy is revered for stories that explore resilience, identity, and empowerment. Shooting Stars Above came to life in a burst of creative inspiration in late 2019, with the first draft completed in just ten days—an unparalleled feat for the author. The novel is imbued with passion, and readers can feel the urgency and emotional weight of the story in every page.
Leavy’s background in sociology and her commitment to exploring complex emotional landscapes lend authenticity to Tess and Jack’s experiences. The novel’s underlying message is clear: love has the power to mend even the deepest wounds.
Critical Acclaim and Reader Reception
The novel has been met with glowing reviews from both critics and readers alike. Kirkus Reviews praises it as “an uplifting, if overly sweet, story about the healing power of love.” Readers’ Favorite describes it as “a poignant exploration of how love can help wounded souls become whole once again.”
Beyond the critical reception, the novel has already begun resonating with audiences, particularly those who appreciate deeply emotional contemporary romances. The themes of trauma, healing, and love’s transformative power strike a chord with readers, making it a standout in the genre.
A Love Story for the Modern Reader
In a world where love is often portrayed in overly simplistic or idealized ways, Shooting Stars Above dares to explore love as something raw, messy, and profoundly healing. Tess and Jack’s relationship is not one of fairy tale perfection but one built on honesty, mutual support, and resilience. Their love story acknowledges the realities of trauma while providing a hopeful message—that love, in its purest form, can be the guiding light toward healing.
The book also challenges traditional gender roles in romance narratives. Tess, despite her past pain, is not a damsel in distress; she is a successful woman who embraces love on her own terms. Jack, hardened by years of counterterrorism work, learns to open himself up to emotional vulnerability—a rare but refreshing portrayal of masculinity in contemporary romance.
What’s Next in The Celestial Bodies Romances?
Shooting Stars Above is just the beginning. The novel is the first installment in The Celestial Bodies Romances series, which will continue exploring love, fate, and healing through different characters and storylines. Given Leavy’s ability to craft narratives that resonate deeply, readers can expect future books in the series to be just as powerful and moving.
Patricia Leavy’s Shooting Stars Above is more than just a romance novel; it is a testament to the power of love in overcoming life’s greatest obstacles. Whether you’re a long-time romance reader or someone looking for a heartfelt story of redemption, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
“Get your copy of Shooting Stars Above—available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more!”
Published by Mark V.