Author releases debut novel

Sparta — Former Sparta resident Heather Sapp, writing under the pen name Amanda Brice, recently released her debut young adult novel, “Codename: Dancer.” Sapp was a finalist for a Golden Heart Award from Romance Writers of America in 2009. She is a 1995 graduate of Sparta High School and the daughter of Linda and Bob Sapp, still of Sparta. The author draws upon her experience growing up dancing as a member of the 22nd Century Jazz Ensemble at Dance by Kempson in this teen mystery novel set at a performing arts boarding school. Reviewers have described the tale as “Nancy Drew in toe shoes.” The novel features 14-year-old Dani Spevak, who is selected to dance with a teen heartthrob on a dance reality show being filmed at her performing arts school. Just as quickly, her fortunes reverse when a series of suspicious accidents strike the set, forcing this dancer to turn detective before its too late. “Codename: Dancer” is available in both print and e-book, through Amazon or bookstores. (ISBN: 978-1461184010; $6.99 paperback, $2.99 e-book.)