By the time readers arrive at The Spice Rack this afternoon, the aroma of freshly baked goodies may mingle with the scent of newly printed pages as Estes Park author Aimie Runyan celebrates the launch of her newest novel, “Missed Connections.”
The event, scheduled from 4:30 p.m.to 6:30 p.m. on May 26, will bring together readers, food lovers, and members of the Estes Valley’s creative community for an early evening centered on storytelling, reinvention, and the question that drives Runyan’s latest work: What if life offered a second chance to revisit the choices that shaped who we become?
Books will be available for purchase onsite through Macdonald Book Shop, and refreshments will be served during the gathering.
Runyan, who has lived in Estes Park since 2021, has built an international literary career from the mountain town.“Missed Connections” marks her 12th solo novel and 14th book overall, including collaborations. It is also her third contemporary fiction title after becoming widely known for historical fiction.
Over the years, Runyan’s work has been recognized as a finalist for the Colorado Book Award multiple times, longlisted for the Reading the West Award, and selected as an Editor’s Choice title by the Historical Novel Society.
She was also nominated for the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ Writer of the Year honor. Her novels have been translated into eight languages.
The new book follows Sabrina Sorensen, a 37-year-old restaurant manager whose carefully planned professional life begins unraveling after she loses a coveted job in Paris.
Forced to return home to California for her younger sister’s engagement celebration, Sabrina faces criticism from family members who see her as restless and unable to commit.
What they do not know is that Sabrina has spent 15 years carefully shaping her career around a secret ambition: becoming an inspector for the prestigious Michelin Guide.
After a difficult confrontation with her family, Sabrina flees to the Burbank Airport uncertain about where her life should go next. There, a ticket agent presents her with an extraordinary opportunity to revisit pivotal moments from her past and reconsider the sacrifices she has made in pursuit of her dream.
The novel blends themes of identity, ambition, romance, and self-discovery while exploring the universal tendency to wonder how life might have unfolded differently.
While Estes Park is associated with tourism and outdoor recreation, its literary and arts scene continues to grow, supported by local businesses willing to host cultural events and readers eager to connect with authors in person.
Tuesday’s gathering is designed to be intimate and conversational, giving attendees the opportunity to meet Runyan, discuss the inspiration behind the novel, and have copies signed.
The event requires advance registration. Click here to RSVP for the “Missed Connections” launch party.