Cinematic Destinies

2025 Literary Titan Gold Book Award Winner

“Leavy’s prose is fluid, warm, and often poetic, capturing both the beauty of everyday moments and the emotional complexity of her characters’ inner lives . . . A gentle, heartfelt story of the messy beauty of becoming.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Leavy's writing style is steady and comfortable. There's a calmness to it that is unique, even when addressing the most complicated and legitimate fears . . . Overall, the writing, the characters, the little nods of sizzle, and the brilliant family dynamic make this book a winner. Very highly recommended.”—Readers’ Favorite, 5-star review

“If you’re a romantic with a brain and a heart, this is your jam. If you’ve ever questioned what ‘happily ever after’ looks like when the credits roll, or if you want characters who talk about feelings without making you cringe, then yes—read this. It’s especially good for fans of ensemble stories, gentle family sagas, or character-driven romance. I closed the book with a full heart and a goofy grin.”—Literary Titan, 5-star review

“Cinematic Destinies is a gorgeous celebration of love, art, and the true meaning of life. I absolutely loved this book! Highly recommended!”—Jessie Voigts, PhD, founder of Wandering Educators

“Leavy’s latest must-read novel features a trio of romantic storylines about the quest for love and identity in the shadow of a Hollywood fairy tale. This powerful novel is less about the magic of the movies, and more about the search for magic in our lives. Cinematic Destinies is a spellbinding ode to love, art, and what it means to live.” —Mary E. Weems, author of Blackeyed

“Cinematic Destinies is a stunning and poignant celebration of romance, the magic of movies, and life itself. The exotic Icelandic film set, well-drawn characters, and smart writing make this book impossible to put down. Leavy’s voice in fiction is truly singular. She is a gifted writer who weaves beauty and hopefulness into each of her tales. This is a gorgeous novel.” —Laurel Richardson, author of Lone Twin

“A tour de force! Cinematic Destinies is a romantic masterpiece. This book was so captivating that I read it in one sitting and cried happy tears for the last several chapters. I literally could not speak for hours. It was just so beautiful and emotionally satisfying.”—U. Melissa Anyiwo, editor of Gender Warriors

“I fell in love with Finn Forrester, Hollywood movie star, and Ella Sinclair, provocative philosopher, in The Location Shoot and After the Red Carpet. Now, in Cinematic Destinies, Leavy weaves the stories of Ella and Finn’s three adult children as they navigate romance, love, and the search for their own identities. Emotionally charged, beautifully written, and deeply satisfying, this is a book you don't want to miss.” —Jessica Smartt Gullion, author of October Birds

“This light-hearted new novel returns us to the story of Finn Forrester and Ella. We glimpse what ‘happily ever after’ has looked like in action for these two. How delightful to see this cozy family embracing vulnerability more courageously as their children mature—and accepting that sometimes a little trial and error imparts the best lesson of all!”—Alexandra Nowakowski, coauthor of Other People’s Oysters

“Leavy’s riveting story of what happens in the happily-ever-after shows us how the legacy of love and art are the greatest gift. We see how love can be complicated and messy but taking a chance on the one that makes your heart soar, especially when it frightens you, is an act that sheds light in the darkest places. I loved this book.”—Sandra L. Faulkner, author of Poetic Inquiry: Craft, Method and Practice

“In Cinematic Destinies, Ella and Finn’s love takes on generational qualities as we join their adult children during Jean Mercier’s final film shoot in a riveting collection of romantic and artistic adventures. This novel will pull at heartstrings, open tear ducts, and produce laughs all at once!” —J. E. Sumerau, 2021 George Garrett Fiction Prize–winning author of Transmission