Follow My Voice

Originally self-published on Wattpad, this simplistically written but emotionally complex new adult romance from Godoy (Through My Window) finds Klara Rodriguez, 19, having developed agoraphobia in response to her mother’s death. She hasn’t left the house in eight months but eases her loneliness by tuning into her favorite college radio show, Follow My Voice, finding comfort in the soothing voice of its host, Kang. On a whim, she sends a message expressing her appreciation, and Kang reads it on air. To her shock, Kang texts back and the pair strike up a pen pal relationship. As texts turn to phone calls, their connection deepens and Klara finds inspiration to start living again. She signs up for classes at the local community college—bringing her and Kang into contact IRL. Godoy over-relies on cliché, and the interpersonal drama often veers into YA territory, but Klara’s anxiety, grief, and depression are handled with care and her path toward healing is satisfying to witness. With a film adaptation forthcoming from Amazon Prime, this angsty tale should please the author’s fans and win her new ones. Agent: Johanna Castillo, Writers House. (Sept.)