At The Well on Feb. 21, novelist Ann Lee Miller encouraged students to work hard and follow their passions so their dreams can become a reality.

Miller graduated from Ashland University with a degree in creative writing.

She said her writings are aimed to college-aged students.

“The early twenties are filled with drama, dreams, and finding our place in the world,” Miller said. “What better time in life to capture?”

Her works include the novels “Avra’s God,” “The Art of My Life” and “Kicking Eternity.” Her most recent book came out March 1 and is titled “Tattered Innocence.”

She has been recognized for her novels in the past and “Kicking Eternity” reached more than 70,000 downloads on Amazon’s website.

Miller’s books focus on topics such as challenges, dreams, love and relationships that are applicable in the lives of students and young people beginning their journey as adults.

In addition, Miller’s childhood experiences spending time on a sailboat serve as an inspiration in the stories she has written.

“My dad, a dead ringer for Willie Nelson, packed the family into a VW van for a year to pan for gold out West and in Mexico, pitched us a tent on a St. John beach in the Virgin Islands, and built a dinghy in our living room he had to dismantle to get out the door,” she said.

During her speech at The Well, she discussed the many dreams individuals hold in life.

Using the example of Joseph in the Bible for illustrating her points, she explained that these aspirations can help people endure difficult times and give them hope for the future.

By staying focused, remaining dedicated and working hard, individuals can accomplish their goals.

God plays a major role in the process, helping provide motivation and guidance as people put their faith in God during their quest to reach their dreams.

Overall, Miller enjoyed sharing her message with those in attendance at The Well.

“This was my first ever book tour, and speaking at AU was a dream come true. I hope students were spurred to passionately pursue their dreams,” Miller said.

Her daughter Annie, who is a senior at AU, commented about the experience.

“I was excited about my mom coming to speak. She really knows how to relate to young adults and never fails to amaze me with her keen insight into my daily struggles within my faith journey,” she said.

AU students can receive a free e-book version of “Kicking Eternity” as well as find out more information about all the novels by visiting the website AnnLeeMiller.com. Miller’s paperback novels are also available at the AU bookstore.