Niceville is at the center of another recently released novel.
Former Niceville resident Jonathan Gunger released his first novel, “34/4,” this month. He says the more than 400-page book is filled with inspiration, humor and a message on family dynamics.
“A lot of people give up too soon when it comes to family,” Gunger said. “Family is incredibly important. You have to weather the storms together. In the end, I want readers to realize how important people are.”
The Bonita Springs resident was born in Connecticut but came to Niceville in the mid-1980s to work with his brother building docks at marinas. That’s when he decided where the setting for his book would be.
“Part of the story I wrote in high school as a short story, but I always wondered what would happen with the rest of it,” Gunger said. “A few years ago I decided to see where it should go and Niceville is where I drew a lot of inspiration.”
Gunger spent five years writing “34/4” while working full time. The book follows the Taylor family from a dysfunctional circumstance in Connecticut to the quaint town of Niceville.
Gunger plans to tour the Panhandle for book signings and readings. From there he will travel to Connecticut to continue the promotion.
His next goal is to finish the second book in what he hopes will be a trilogy. Gunger said Pace in Santa Rosa County will be the backdrop.
“This has turned out better than I ever could imagine,” he said. “It’s an inspirational story of redemption. A lot of people think they should give up and go in different directions when they’re facing hard times.
“But in the end, it’s worth it to fight for your family.”
TO LEARN MORE: For more information about Jonathan Gunger and “34/4,” go to jonathangunger.com.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Angel McCurdy at 850-315-4432 or amccurdy@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @AngelMnwfdn.
