NEW ROMANCE NOVEL TACKLES 2026'S MOST DISCUSSED DATING CRISIS: Exploring How Ghosting and Loss Can Lead to True Love

Colorado Author Pens Heartwarming Second-Chance Romance Set in Pacific Northwest That Blends Emotional Depth With Hope and Humor

SUPERIOR, CO, UNITED STATES, January 8, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Debut author Erica Devon offers a story of healing and hope with The One Who Ghosted Me, a contemporary romance that explores how past heartbreak—and unexpected loss—can pave the way for deeper love. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of a mysterious Pacific Northwest estate, the novel releases February 15, 2026, and explores how being ghosted shapes our ability to trust again while delivering the emotional satisfaction and hopeful tone readers crave.

The One Who Ghosted Me follows Amelia Preston, a young widowed geologist whose career ambitions collide with her complicated past when she's forced to work alongside Jonathan Fontaine—the man who ghosted her five years ago without explanation. As she renovates a century-old estate filled with hidden journals and forgotten history—and experiences strange moments of déjà vu that feel almost like memories from another life—she navigates a high-stakes corporate merger alongside the love she thought she'd lost. Both must confront whether trust can be rebuilt, wounds can transform into hope, and second chances are worth the risk.

"Ghosting isn't just a dating trend. It can deeply affect how open we are to trust and love again," says Erica Devon. "But I didn't want to write a heavy, tearjerker romance. I wanted to show readers that healing is possible, that humor and hope can coexist with real emotional stakes, and that love is worth fighting for. This is a story about finding light after loss."

The novel arrives at a crucial cultural moment. Ghosting has become widespread in modern dating culture, with relationship experts noting its traumatic impact and connection to anxiety, depression, and trust issues. As dating app fatigue grows and readers increasingly seek authentic stories about healing and second chances—stories with the emotional depth of Emily Henry and the humor of Christina Lauren—The One Who Ghosted Me offers both escapism and emotional resonance, with a hopeful, heartwarming tone that balances real-world challenges with humor and optimism.

Set in Washington State's lush forests, the story weaves together professional ambition, personal vulnerability, and the unexpected wisdom found in century-old journals written by a pioneer woman who faced her own challenges in love. Amelia's journey from self-protection and survivor guilt to courageous vulnerability mirrors the path many readers face—learning to trust again, honoring the past while embracing the future, and believing that happiness is still possible after loss.

"This is a romance that acknowledges emotional wounds without dwelling in darkness," Erica Devon adds. "Readers will laugh, swoon, and maybe shed a happy tear or two. They will definitely root for Amelia's happily-ever-after. It's K-drama-inspired emotional balance, depth without heaviness, stakes that matter, and a satisfying, hopeful ending that feels earned."

The One Who Ghosted Me is the first in the Fontaine Series, a multi-book contemporary romance collection exploring themes of second-lifetime chances, family dynamics, and the enduring power of love. The series follows interconnected characters as they navigate modern relationships with all their complications and rewards—always with heart, humor, and hope.

The novel features:
• A second-chance romance grounded in emotional authenticity and hope
• Contemporary workplace dynamics and career pressures
• Secluded Pacific Northwest estate setting with historical journal discoveries
• Widowhood and loss handled with sensitivity and optimism
• Subtle hints of something deeper—unexplained connections and déjà vu that whisper of possibilities beyond coincidence
• Heat level 3-4 sensual content, with character-driven intimacy
• Strong female protagonist in STEM field
• K-drama-inspired balance of humor and heart (80% light/fun, 20% emotional depth)
• Exploration of healing and second chances
• Satisfying happily-ever-after that honors the emotional journey
• Perfect for book clubs seeking discussion-worthy themes with uplifting outcomes
• Strong audiobook potential with emotionally resonant narration opportunities

The One Who Ghosted Me appeals to contemporary romance readers, women's fiction audiences seeking emotional depth with hope, and book club readers who enjoy evocative settings and meaningful character journeys. Perfect for readers who love Sally Thorne's The Hating Game, Ali Hazelwood's STEM heroines, and the emotional depth of Emily Henry— all with heart, humor, and hope.

The One Who Ghosted Me releases February 15, 2026, on Amazon and through major book retailers. For advance review copies, interview requests, or to schedule the author for podcasts and book club discussions, contact Author@EricaDevon.net. Updates and information available at https://EricaDevon.net.
Available for preorder now for $3.99 on Amazon.

About ERICA DEVON:

Erica writes contemporary romance where professional expertise meets undeniable chemistry—in settings as diverse as mountain forests, elegant family estates, and glamorous wedding venues.

After 20 years as a geologist and computer scientist in the energy industry, she creates characters who are as passionate about their careers as they are about love. Her professional background brings authenticity to stories where work isn't just a backdrop—it's integral to who her characters are and how they connect.

Inspired by the multi-generational family sagas she discovered in her mother's book collection, Erica crafts series exploring how love shapes families across time. Her Fontaine Series weaves second-chance romance, friends-to-lovers, and touches of destiny with the emotional depth, slow-burn romance, and fated-connection themes that Korean drama fans adore.

Erica lives in Colorado with her wonderfully supportive husband and two grown children. Between writing sessions, she hikes mountain trails and binges K-Dramas.

For high-resolution cover images, author photos, and additional press materials, visit https://www.EricaDevon.net/press-kit

Erica Devon
Alpine Aura LLC
author@ericadevon.net
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