Thunder on the Lake

Thunder on the Lake is a new-adult fiction novel about a first-generation college student, immigrated from the Dominican Republic. It's a story of self-discovery, self-sabotage, and learning how to balance an upbringing steeped in tradition and expectations with seemingly conflicting and selfish desires for a different future. It contains a wholesome set of geeky, supportive side characters guiding and caring for our hero on his journey; several powerful female figures who are not the main love interest; and a slow-burn strangers-to-friends-to-lovers LGBTQ romance.

The novel is told through the lens of Ren Cordero, who at the beginning of the story has everything he thinks he should want - a loving, close family, a scholarship to the University of Chicago, a sure plan to become a doctor, a fantastic roommate, a decent job, and a study date with his crush - the gorgeous and wealthy Celeste Lyons. In fact, the only thing that isn't working is trying to meet with his English 101 partner, Justin Kittrick, who refuses to show up to interview for a joint biography assignment. With only a weekend left before the biographies are due, Ren tracks Justin down, finding him sick and alone in a nearly empty dorm room, and even though Ren knows it's a horrible idea, he brings Justin back to his apartment to take care of him. During the weekend, Ren learns more than enough about Justin to satisfy his homework requirements, but just when Ren is starting to give in to his developing feelings for Justin, he learns the disturbing reason why Justin has been missing class and all their project meetings.