Running Mates

A Novel

By: Emily Locker

Narrated by: Amanda Stribling

In the quaint yet politically charged town of Edgartown, North Carolina, two worlds are about to collide. Meet Annabelle Morningstar, an impassioned, quirky high school activist raised by her news anchor and surgeon mothers, both champions of progressive ideals. Across town, there’s Gabe Delgado, the quintessential all-American boy, molded by his conservative, Cuban senator father. Edgartown is a town literally divided—the Liberal East and the Conservative North coexisting as neighbors but rarely as friends. But what happens when the two sides meet in the least likely of places: a local bookstore?

When employees at Annabelle’s favorite literary haven decide to unionize, she finds her path unexpectedly crossing with Gabe’s. And then they’re tossed together weekly as they get special training help for their beloved cross-country competitions. With their worlds thrown into disarray, the two high schoolers must navigate their complex feelings for each other while wrestling with their polarized upbringings. Can love bloom in the crossfire of political discord?

“Running Mates” is not just a heartwarming coming-of-age tale. It's a deep dive into the complexities of ideological divide, a vivid portrayal of modern youth activism, and a rallying cry for empathy. As Annabelle and Gabe discover the gray areas in a world seemingly divided into black & white and red & blue, they learn that both politics and love require courage, compromise, and a touch of rebellion.

Engaging, timely, funny, and at times poignant, “Running Mates” serves as a mirror to our times, daring us to question, to feel, to laugh, and above all, to love despite our differences.

©2024 Emily Locker (P)2024 Bancroft Press

Charming YA story

Running Mates is the debut novel (I'm 99% sure) by author Emily Locker and I was truly impressed! TBH, I listened to this for the narration (love Amanda Stribling) and then a superb story broke out! I'm old enough to remember elections in the early 90's and this story REALLY gave me James Carville/Mary Matalin vibes. Running Mates is what happens when the two sides step into the aisle to try and find common ground. Throw in the peer pressure, a vindictive ex-girlfriend, a BFF that wants more and you get this sweet story of a first love that overcomes ALL the obstacles.

Amanda Stribling is an artist extraordinaire! All the characters, all the feels wins her all the stars!!

Cute modern love story!

Loved this book! listened to my commute – a lighthearted, fun and funny love story. A feel good story that definitely made me laugh multiple times in my car on the way to and from work :-)

Running Mates

Very cute romcom! Unique plot with fun banter. Appropriate for any age (and political leaning😜) Enjoyed Amanda Stribling’s narration, kept me engaged and entertained! Highly recommend!

Brought me back to high school

Enjoyed seeing the modern day world through the eyes of a high schooler, including love, activism, identity, politics. And all throughout…keeping me smiling and coming back for more. A great listen!