Kissing Abbi by Anna Pivato

An Unconventional Love Story

Author’s Debut Novel Addresses Authenticity Despite Adversity

TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN— What happens when following your heart could risk everything?

Anna Pivato’s debut novel, Kissing Abbi, deals with just that, as it tells the story of two women grappling with their unexpected feelings for each other as their relationship slowly evolves. The pair, both married to men they no longer love, find that true love is worth the sacrifice.

“I was inspired by my personal journey. Although the timeline and details differ, the lesson is the same—that it’s never too late to recognize your own worth and change your life,” Pivato described. 

Based on Pivato’s own experiences, the story is meant to bring readers comfort and inspiration through a compelling, unconventional love story. 

“While the details have been changed, the sentiment is the same—that pursuing true love despite the odds is a risk worth taking,” she explained. 

The book came together over the course of five years, as Pivato’s passion project in between caring for her family and working in a full-time job. Seeing the finished product was “richly rewarding” for her, especially as one of her goals as a writer is to inspire and impact the lives of others in a positive way.

“My hope is that after reading my story, readers will learn to recognize and value their own worth, and to realize it's never too late to find their own authentic happiness,” she said. 

The Author

Anna Pivato is a first-time author who felt compelled to share her story of falling in love with her best friend. When she’s not writing, she enjoys exploring state parks, supporting local shops, kayaking the shores of Lake Michigan, and spending time with family and friends.

The Book

Kissing Abbi: An Unconventional Love Story

Anna Pivato

298 pages, 6” x 9”, B/W

Fiction / Romance / LGBT / Lesbian / Women / Literary / Romance / Contemporary

ISBN: 978-1-968761-50-9, $26.95 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-968761-51-6, $17.95 (Softcover)

Publication Date: 08/25/2026

Mission Point Press

Copies are available for preorder at Bookshop.org, Amazon, and other online retailers. On its August 25 publication date, it will be available for purchase wherever books are sold. For information or to arrange for signings and events, contact the author at anna.pivato.books@gmail.com.