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Press Release for Something We Never Imagined
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Award-Winning Novel Something We Never Imagined Continues to Inspire Readers Worldwide
Captivate Press Acquires 15-Time Award-Winning Novel by Author D.J. Wemple, previously published by Westbow Press.
ST. LOUIS, Mo. (August 1, 2026) — Captivate Press is proud to announce the print acquisitions rights of Something We Never Imagined, the acclaimed novel by award-winning author D.J. Wemple. Previously published by Westbow Press and having earned 15 literary awards, the inspirational contemporary novel continues to resonate with readers through its powerful themes of faith, forgiveness, redemption, and hope.
Often compared to Nicholas Sparks’ The Return and William Sirls’ The Reason, Something We Never Imagined follows Colton Dust, a small-town country boy who leaves Michigan to pursue a journalism degree at the University of Southern California. After quickly rising through the ranks of Los Angeles journalism, Colton appears to have everything he ever wanted, until meeting Emma Lee Coal, a young woman whose compassion challenges him to confront the painful wounds of his past. As their relationship grows, Colton discovers that true healing comes only through forgiveness, faith, and trusting God’s plan, even when it leads somewhere he never imagined.
Wemple began writing the novel during one of the most challenging seasons of his life.
“When the pandemic of 2020 struck, it disrupted not only my life but my entire world,” Wemple said. “It was a time when I was on the brink of giving up, but divine intervention steered me toward a different path.”
Since its release, Something We Never Imagined has received widespread recognition for its emotional storytelling, memorable characters, and uplifting message, earning fifteen literary awards and praise from readers seeking stories that inspire hope while exploring life’s deepest questions.
Newly published by Captivate Press, Something We Never Imagined is available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook (Recorded Books Media) through major online booksellers and retailers on August 1, 2026.
About D.J. Wemple
Michigan native D.J. Wemple is an award-winning author whose novels blend compelling storytelling with themes of faith, hope, forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of love. After spending more than 40 years dreaming of becoming a novelist, he began writing his debut novel during the pandemic in 2020. Today, Wemple travels throughout the world sharing inspirational messages while continuing to write. He is currently working on several new novels and enjoys spending time with his three grown children, Elijah, Noah, and Kylie.
Media Contact
Captivate Press
www.captivatepress.site
captivatepress@gmail.com
Literary Agent: andrea@inscriptionsliterary.com
Press Release for Fantasy Hockey Trade
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Award-Winning Author D.J. Wemple Steps Onto the Ice with New Middle-Grade Adventure Fantasy Hockey Trade
“The Mighty Ducks Meets Freaky Friday” Story Arrives August 1 from Captivate Press
ST. LOUIS, Mo. (August 1, 2026) — Captivate Press announces the release of Fantasy Hockey Trade, an exciting new middle-grade novel by award-winning author D.J. Wemple. Written for readers ages 8–12, the imaginative story combines the excitement of youth hockey with an unforgettable body-swap adventure in what has been described as “The Mighty Ducks meets Freaky Friday.”
Best friends Easton and Trevor love playing hockey with their teammates on the Gladiators, but competing against bigger, tougher players isn’t always easy. After a mysterious chemical spill in a science lab, the two friends suddenly find themselves transformed into their favorite professional hockey stars.
Thrust into the fast-paced world of professional hockey, Easton and Trevor discover that being a superstar comes with pressure, responsibility, and sacrifices they never expected. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about teamwork, friendship, perseverance, humility, and growing up. Before long, they realize that while life in the big leagues is exciting, they may not be ready to leave childhood behind.
Known for his award-winning Christian novel Something We Never Imagined, Wemple brings his signature heartfelt storytelling to a younger audience, delivering an entertaining adventure with meaningful life lessons for young readers.
“I’ve always believed that stories can entertain while encouraging readers to think about what’s truly important,” said Wemple. “Fantasy Hockey Trade is a fun hockey adventure, but beneath the action is a reminder that some of life’s greatest victories happen off the ice.”
Reflecting on the release, Wemple added:
“We never, ever know what tomorrow holds. It could be our last breath, or the most incredible dream of our life. That’s why I wait patiently on the Lord. His plans, His path, and His timing are always much better than my own, and God is so good.”
Published by Captivate Press, Fantasy Hockey Trade will be available beginning August 1, 2026, in paperback, hardcover, and eBook editions through major online booksellers and retailers.
About D.J. Wemple
Michigan native D.J. Wemple is an award-winning author whose novels blend compelling storytelling with themes of faith, hope, forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of love. After spending more than 40 years dreaming of becoming a novelist, he published his debut award-winning Christian novel, Something We Never Imagined. Today, Wemple travels throughout the United States sharing inspirational messages while continuing to write. He is currently working on several new novels and enjoys spending time with his three grown children, Elijah, Noah, and Kylie.
Media Contact
Captivate Press
www.captivatepress.site
captivatepress@gmail.com
Author’s Literary Agent: andrea@inscriptionsliterary.com