Is There Life After College?

Since childhood, college valedictorian Mark Jans has measured life in lessons and letter grades. But after graduation, he trades academia for the unknown and escapes to New York City, eager to enroll in the 'School of Hard Knocks.' There, he meets Astra-a mysterious, street-smart punk who lives for the moment and hides more than she reveals. Despite their differences, the two are drawn to one another by a shared longing: to be truly seen. But as their connection deepens, they are forced apart by clashing beliefs and personal demons. When Astra returns home to confront a dark secret from her past, Mark must decide whether he can help her-or whether he’s the one who truly needs saving. From award-winning author Michael Thomas Perone, Is There Life After College? is a poignant, emotionally charged coming-of-age novel that explores identity, mental health, love, and purpose. It asks not only what happens after school ends, but what comes after innocence, connection-and even life itself. Michael Thomas Perone is an award-winning author who has written for The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore City Paper, Long Island Voice (a spinoff of The Village Voice), Yahoo!, and WhatCulture!, among others. His debut novel, the action-adventure Danger Peak, was the recipient of multiple awards, including The Fall 2022 BookFest Award. His follow-up, the coming-of-age/sci-fi mindbender Déjà View, won First Place at the Spring 2024 BookFest Awards and was also a finalist of The 2024 Eric Hoffer Book Award. His short story collection, The Electric God and Other Shorts, was the recipient of The Spring 2025 BookFest Award and The 2024 Firebird Book Award, where it received First Place. It was also a Best Book Winner at The Fall 2025 PenCraft Awards. He works as a Senior Editor and lives on Long Island with his wife and two daughters.