And just like that—my second novel is out in the world!
I’ve had a lot of Big Feelings™ about this book release—in part because Tania is my most autobiographical character by a long shot, and I hope readers will connect with her.
But also it’s because—as most authors can attest—the sophomore slump is a very real phenomenon. It’s easy for your loved ones to rally behind your debut because the experience is new and shiny and full of fanfare. It’s much harder to maintain that same level of excitement for book #2 or #12 or #25.
So if you’re reading this, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. Your support means the world to me, and I hope you love this rock-climbing romance of mine as much as I do.
Love on the Rocks Is Out Now
You can get your hands on Love on the Rocks in a variety of ways:
Ebooks are available on Amazon, either to purchase or borrow in Kindle Unlimited
You can order a paperback online wherever books are sold: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org
And if you want a signed copy with exclusive tie-in goodies, you can order directly from my Etsy shop!

What Readers Are Saying
“If you’re looking for a cozy read with the perfect amount of spice, a light rock climbing lingo lesson, and lots of giggles, you should 100% read this book!”
“Overall, such an enjoyable read. I loved the romance between Nolan and Tania, and her character development in the end is, of course, much appreciated. Perfect happy ending for this impossibly cute couple 💚”
“Thank you Alyssa for bringing my heart joy with this story. This was a story of growth as well as a love story! I enjoyed it; every moment.”
“Another can’t-put-down read by Alyssa Jarrett! A few things I love about her writing – it’s funny as hell, so easy to read and enjoy, and she has a way of truly immersing you into the book!”
In the Bay Area? Come See Me in Person
Many subscribers of this newsletter are local to the Bay Area, so if that includes you, please come out and celebrate this book launch with me!
I’m partnering with the team at Pacific Pipe climbing gym in Oakland for an author meet & greet and book signing:
Where: Pacific Pipe at 2140 Mandela Parkway, Oakland, CA 94607
When: Thursday, Oct. 24, at 6 pm PT
Why: To hang out, munch on Halloween candy, and enter to win some cool prizes!
You don’t need to be a member of the gym to attend, and if you want to try out climbing for the first time, day passes and rental gear are available for purchase. I’d love to see you there!
Climb On
I never thought after watching the Free Solo documentary, that it would lead me here, writing my own rock-climbing rom-com. Everyone who knows me knows that I’m not athletic in the slightest, but what publishing and climbing have in common is that the journey is just as thrilling as the destination.
Thank you again for climbing this mountain with me ❤️
XOXO
Alyssa
And now it’s time for this month’s moment of sunshine.
Your Moment of Sunshine ☀️
Every month, I share the things I loved most to bring a ray of warmth wherever you are.
(Note: When available, the links I include lead to Bookshop.org. If you make a purchase, you’ll support local, independent bookstores, and I’ll earn a small commission as an affiliate. It’s a win-win!)
Reading 📖

The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava
Danica Nava’s debut, The Truth According to Ember, has been on my radar since it was announced. I even declared it as one of my most anticipated romances of the year, and it did not disappoint!
I’m always a fan of workplace romances, especially in tech, and this rom-com had me giggling from the get-go. I immediately connected with Ember’s voice and love a so-called “unlikable” female character.
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy from its publisher Berkley (seriously, you have no idea how much of an accomplishment this is lol), but I also adored listening to the book on audio. Such a breath of fresh air!
Watching 📺

Nobody Wants This on Netflix
Speaking of fresh air, all of the hype about Nobody Wants This is completely deserved. HOLY MOLY was this show good. The second it was over I wanted to go back to the beginning and start again.
Like every Millennial, I totally fangirled over Adam Brody in The O.C., but what makes this series compelling is how mature this budding relationship feels. No character is perfect, but they talk through their issues and continue showing up for each other.
If you wish Fleabag and Hot Priest got a happily ever after, then you need to meet Hot Rabbi!
Eating 🍗
Wayfare Tavern
When I was thinking of where to celebrate the launch of Love on the Rocks, the first place that came to me was Wayfare Tavern. Owned by celebrity chef Tyler Florence, the restaurant has become synonymous for decadent dishes, like its deviled eggs, organic fried chicken, and strawberry cheesecake french toast (pictured above).
But honestly, what keeps me coming back is—no joke—the iced tea. It’s not even formally on the menu, but it comes with a scoop of lemon sorbet and it is out of this world. The staff was nice enough to give me a to-go container of tea because I love it that much. If you’re ever in San Francisco, it’s worth a visit!
What should I be reading, watching, and eating next? Share your recommendations in the comments!
Congrats 🎉🎊!! Amazing. I also loved free solo and wondered about nobody wants this, thanks for the recommendation! If I still lived I. The bay I would totally come out to support you. Cheers and congrats again! ❤️
Happy pub day to Tania and Nolan! 🎉 And I definitely dragged my now-husband to a Tyler Florence cooking demo when we were in college...he didn't seem to mind that I (and the rest of the crowd of middle-aged women) was ogling the chef