Gastonia, N.C. – September 7, 2026 – Three local authors have launched a new interactive young‑adult novel, The Ticket: A Tale of Two Trains. Co‑author Thomas Gallo explains, “We didn’t want readers simply watching the characters make choices. We wanted them making those choices right alongside them—and discovering where those decisions can lead.”
Choice‑Driven Storytelling Meets Faith‑Based Themes
The book blends the excitement of a choose‑your‑own‑adventure with the depth of traditional fiction. Readers decide which direction the story takes, creating multiple paths and outcomes. While the narrative centers on an adventure, it also explores identity, purpose, consequence and hope – themes the authors say reflect the journey of life.
At its core, the story is an allegory for salvation through Jesus. The authors deliberately chose not to market the work as overtly Christian fiction, hoping to reach a broader audience of teens and adults who first come for the adventure and then encounter the underlying message.
Local Roots, Universal Appeal
Elements of the novel draw from the authors’ own youthful experiences, grounding the fantastical train journey in real‑world friendships, risks and mistakes. The interactive format encourages readers to live with the consequences of their decisions, reinforcing the idea that every choice leads somewhere.
The Ticket is independently published in paperback, with an audiobook planned for the future. For more information, visit the official website at theticketbook.com or contact co‑author Thomas Gallo at 980‑622‑9300.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
