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Love, Change, Family, & Forgiveness
In High and Out, a professional hockey player facing the end of his career fights to overcome addiction and the personal demons threatening to destroy him. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My oldest son had just turned six, the age I decided I was going to be a professional hockey player when I grew up. Addiction and personal demons were a part of the ending to my amateur hockey career ten years ago. I’ve had a rough relationship with hockey since then but my Mom was diagnosed with stage four cancer late last year and I wanted to write something for her that she could read during her treatment and recovery. Unfortunately she passed away before she was able to finish reading it but she loved it and even cried when I showed her the book trailer and she wasn’t a cryer.
Did you include anything from your own life in Jason’s experiences?
Mostly all of his experiences were either from my life or from my childhood dreams. I really wanted to be Jason and for a long time I thought I could and would be him. I somehow ended up more like a mix of Carl and Dr. Sutton though.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Love, change, family, and forgiveness. Without those themes, we are doomed and stand no chance. Ultimately it’s about fate too, I suppose.
What is the next book you are working on? When can fans expect to see it released?
After my hockey career ended, I spent the next ten years in financial services, selling insurance and retirement plans, so I’ve started a fun drama in that space that I’d like to have released within the next year. I’ve also got some western ideas and a couple historical fictions I’d like to write. Then we may also have to check back in on Jason from time to time and see how he’s doing… and I may have already started on that as well.
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High and Out
Jason Wagner, a renowned pro hockey player, faces a crisis both on and off the ice. As he grapples with the possibility of his career ending, he clashes with his agent and fights to secure a new contract. With his dream of lifting the Stanley Cup slipping away, Jason must confront the harsh realities of his sport and the demons that haunt him. Alongside his professional challenges, Jason contends with personal struggles, including an estranged brother, a new love interest with a troubled past, and a dangerous addiction that threatens to destroy him. Will he achieve his dreams and find happiness, or will the pressures of his sport and personal struggles prove too much to overcome?
In High and Out, author Justin Weber crafts a captivating slice of life and sports fiction novel that masterfully explores the highs and lows of a professional hockey player’s journey. Initially, the book’s laid-back tone may suggest a leisurely pace, but it soon reveals a poignant and unflinching portrayal of the struggles athletes face, both on and off the field. The sports industry’s toxic underbelly is laid bare, and Jason’s heart-wrenching struggles will leave readers emotionally invested and eager to see him overcome the odds. Weber demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting vivid descriptions of ice hockey gameplay. The action is so detailed and immersive that lovers of the sport will be engrossed in the glorified action. The book’s emotional rollercoaster is expertly woven, oscillating between moments of joy and sorrow, creating a deep sense of empathy in readers. Weber’s writing is both sensitive and courageous, refusing to shy away from the harsh realities of Jason’s journey.
High and Out is a gripping novel that delves deep into the life of a professional hockey player navigating the tumultuous waters of his career and personal life. Justin Weber’s storytelling is both poignant and vivid, offering readers an authentic glimpse into the highs and lows of the sports world. Through Jason Wagner’s journey, the novel explores themes of ambition, resilience, and the search for redemption. It is a must-read for sports enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted tale of personal struggle and triumph.
Pages: 278 | ASIN : B0D5863QB5
LITERARY TITAN 