Purple State: A Novel

In her debut novel, Purple State: A Novel, Dana Perino delivers a charming romantic comedy titled "The Bright Side" (or her upcoming fiction project). The story follows Dorothy “Dot” Clark, a 25-year-old PR professional from New York City who feels stuck in both her career and her love life.

Looking for a fresh start, Dot moves to Cedar Falls, Wisconsin, to work on a high-stakes political campaign in a crucial swing district. She is joined by her two best friends, Mary and Harper, who are also eager to escape the chaos of the city. While they expect a quiet assignment, they find themselves captivated by the town's cozy charm and local community.

The trip takes a romantic turn when Dot meets Danny Dawson, a big-hearted local who cares more about hockey than political headlines. Despite their different backgrounds and the looming deadline of the election, Dot begins to fall for him. As the campaign intensifies, Dot must decide if a "big city" girl can find a future with a "small town" guy. It is a witty story about self-discovery and whether love can truly bridge the political divide.