We're pleased to welcome Sofia Ramirez Castillo to CLC to talk about her debut novel, Every Step of the Way. She has a lot to say and we are here for it! This sounds like a powerful, emotional story that you'll definitely want to pick up. Thanks to Sofia, we have one copy to give away!
Sofía Ramirez Castillo was born and raised in San José, Costa Rica, and has been chasing big dreams ever since. At sixteen, she moved to the U.S. and successfully pursued a career in professional wrestling. Along the way, she fell in love with storytelling, languages, and a life built around movement. Now based in Orlando, Florida, she's a sign language interpreter with a master's degree, an aerial arts enthusiast, and an avid backpacker who's explored over 30 countries. She's also a firm believer in books, adventure, and a little bit of magic. Visit Sofia on Instagram.
Synopsis:
Noah thought she had her future mapped out—with Derek by her side, music in her veins, and a love she believed could survive anything. But when Derek begins to unravel under the weight of secrets and self-destruction, Noah finds herself fighting for someone who’s already slipping out of reach.
Noah thought she had her future mapped out—with Derek by her side, music in her veins, and a love she believed could survive anything. But when Derek begins to unravel under the weight of secrets and self-destruction, Noah finds herself fighting for someone who’s already slipping out of reach.
When her life, and everything she dreamed of, collapses, she turns to the one person who has always been her anchor: her grandmother. In the stillness of that familiar home—surrounded by old photographs, lingering melodies, and gentle wisdom—Noah begins the slow, tender work of piecing herself back together.
But grief has many faces, and healing is rarely simple. As time moves forward and the past refuses to stay buried, Noah must confront heartbreak, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to choose hope when the world feels unrecognizable.
A story of love, loss, and the courage to begin again, Every Step of the Way is a deeply emotional journey about the people who shape us, the memories that haunt us, and the healing we find when we return to where it all began. (Courtesy of Amazon.)
"If you’re someone who loves an emotional rollercoaster filled with heartbreak, resilience, and hope and especially if you love a powerful grandmother bond this one deserves a spot on your shelf. Please pick this up. You won’t be disappointed." - Ashley (Amazon)
"A debut novel that masterfully encapsulates the different stages of grief, self discovery, and serves as reminder that there is a light at the end of the tunnel." - Yoshi (Amazon)
In one sentence, what was the road to publishing like for you?
It was both challenging and exhilarating; I stepped into entirely new territory and had to learn every aspect of writing and publishing from scratch without guidance, but knowing I gave it my absolute best made the journey infinitely more rewarding.
How is Noah similar to or different from you?
Writing Noah was a terrifying process because she was the only character brave enough to challenge who I am and what I believe about myself. She is vulnerable and deeply empathetic, which are qualities that do not come easily to me, so stepping into her headspace required me to respond in ways that felt true to her journey rather than how I might instinctively react.
While I have experienced loss and heartbreak, I have thankfully never faced some of the circumstances Noah endures. That gray area forced me to imagine her reality with care and compassion. In doing so, I began to understand her more fully, and writing from that place of empathy became easier.
We differ in meaningful ways. Noah often doubts herself and feels insecure when faced with difficult choices, whereas I have worked hard to develop a strong sense of identity and direction. I am a planner by nature, making decisions with intention and logic, especially in times of stress. That makes me dependable in emergencies, but not always the most comforting presence.
Despite our differences, we share stubbornness, courage, and a sense of adventure. I admire Noah’s ability to give herself grace; to grieve openly and lean on her support system. That openness is something I am still learning to embrace. Through her, I’ve realized the value of slowing down and appreciating a quieter life filled with music, warm cups of tea, and moments of gratitude for all that I’ve built.
If Every Step of the Way was made into a movie, who would you cast in the leading roles?
This might be a biased answer, but when I first began developing these characters five years ago, I had a very clear vision of the kind of chemistry they needed to have. Like many authors, I dream of seeing my story adapted for the screen, and as a lifelong film lover, my answer could easily change depending on the latest performance that moves me, there is so much extraordinary talent out there.
However, when Taylor Swift released the All Too Well (10 Minute Version) short film, I was struck by the chemistry between Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien. Their portrayal balanced fairytale romance with real-life tension in a way that felt deeply authentic. The film’s shifting timelines between past and present also mirror the emotional structure of my novel, which made their dynamic feel especially aligned with Noah and Derek’s story.
While it would be a dream to see Sadie and Dylan bring these characters to life, what matters most to me is that whoever is cast captures that same palpable chemistry that they had, because at its heart, this story is about the fragile, powerful connection between two people and how it can shift over time.
In all honesty though, if Every Step of the Way ever became a film, I think I would probably pass out. It would be the greatest honor and a completely unreal, dream-come-true moment. I will keep crossing my fingers for that one!
What is the last book you read that you would recommend?
Do I really have to pick just one?
Okay, fine! The most recent book I read and highly recommend is The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. I finished it last month, and Taylor Jenkins Reid’s portrayal of Hollywood glamour, and the sacrifices required of women in that era, was exquisite.
More broadly, there are three books I will always recommend and return to again and again.
First and foremost is The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. I first read it at twelve and have revisited it at least fifteen times since. Each reading impacts me differently. It’s the only literary work that has truly grown alongside me; a story for adults disguised as a children’s book, filled with lessons that leave me speechless every time. My favorite characters are the Drunkard and the Lamplighter. They break my heart every single time.
Secondly, I recommend We Are Okay by Nina LaCour. Before reading it, I mostly gravitated toward murder mysteries, but Nina’s portrayal of grief and fractured family dynamics stayed with me for days. This novel was a major inspiration for my own book. The bond between the protagonist and her grandfather mirrored my love for my grandmothers and reinforced the importance of portraying elderly characters with dignity and depth. Too often, society overlooks them, and I wish more stories highlighted their wisdom, humor, and immeasurable value.
Lastly, for readers who love mystery, The Seven and a Half Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton is unforgettable. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, such a brilliant and inventive story!
If your life was a TV series, which celebrity would you want to narrate it?
Oh my! I could listen to Jane Fonda narrate a phone book and still be mesmerized. I admire her not only for her incredible talent, but for everything she stands for. She is deeply inspirational.
Whether she’s promoting the importance of fitness and mobility (I did all of her workout videos during COVID and couldn't get out of bed for a week, she is unbelievably strong), showing up for climate action through peaceful protest, or advocating for female empowerment, she commits to everything with her whole heart. She embodies conviction and purpose in a way I find profoundly motivating.
I would be honored to have her narrate my hypothetical TV series. And have you seen her performance alongside Lily Tomlin in Grace and Frankie? Absolutely ICONIC. I am a Jane Fonda fan through and through.
If we were to visit you right now, what places would you take us to see?
Here in Orlando? Oh, I would have a full itinerary ready.
First, I’d take you to Disney's BoardWalk. It feels like a hidden gem, while most visitors gravitate toward the parks or Disney Springs, the BoardWalk has a whimsical charm that makes me feel like I’ve stepped into a fairytale every time.
Then we would go kayaking in one of Florida’s beautiful springs or lakes. There’s something incredibly peaceful about being on the water, surrounded by nature, it’s one of my favorite ways to slow down and reconnect.
I would also get us tickets to the Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre for a nostalgic movie night under the stars, and, of course, we’d have to see a performance by Cirque du Soleil. I have been obsessed with the circus and performance arts for as long as I can remember. Whenever I travel, I always research local arts events. There is something magical about live performance that makes every place feel more alive.
And for the cherry on top, we’d end the day with a local bookstore tour, making cozy coffee shop stops along the way. How does that sound?
Thanks to Sofia for chatting with us and for sharing her book with our readers.
How to win: Use KingSumo to enter the giveaway. If you have trouble using KingSumo on our blog, enter the giveaway here. If you are still having issues, please contact us.
Giveaway ends March 3rd at midnight EST.
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