Not your typical love story.
Leap into a captivating and unique journey with ‘ The Officer,’ a tale of unexpected romance between Hollywood star Lara Rose and army Captain Edward Madin. As Lara entertains troops during Thanksgiving, their accidental pairing sparks a heartfelt connection. Despite Edward’s resistance and struggles with Lara’s celebrity status, their love blossoms amidst their differences. Michael E. Bistrica’s gripping narrative delves into the complexities of their lives, offering a compelling portrayal of love’s triumph in unlikely places. His service in the U.S. Army brings realism to the story and highlights the challenges and sacrifices of military life.



Page 111 – They met at Fort Bragg as planned but the visit was contentious. Edward’s duties would only give him about four or five hours to visit with Lara, and regrettably, he had read the article just before her arrival. He was now beginning to realize the consequences from dating a celebrity. The media exposure shook him to his core. Additionally, there were rumors of various sorts spreading throughout Advance Camp about the army captain and the singer. When they met privately outside the officer’s club, Lara moved in to give him a big hug and kiss, but Edward resisted, turning her effort into a quick touch and a peck on his cheek. “You’re upset about the article, aren’t you?” she asked. He answered formally, “No, I’m fine, just tired.”
What Readers Say:
“The slow burn romance between Lara and Edward that bloomed perfectly. I love how they send letters rather than email; it made this story even more romantic.”
“I finished this book in a single sitting; it was that captivating. The romance had me literally in tears and I was taken on an emotional journey.”
“This romance book destroyed me in the best way! You will be enthralled that before you know it, it will be over, and you will be sitting there with tissues surrounding you from crying.”
Mary James
Silent Bookclub Seattle recommended this, and it turned out to be such a beautiful surprise. The writing is smooth, honest, and full of small emotional details that make the characters feel human. Lara’s world of fame clashing with Edward’s grounded military life creates a tension that feels fresh and meaningful. Their journey feels both fragile and strong at the same time, that’s what makes this book special.
First Post about my book – THE OFFICER
Some of my family and friends asked – Where did the idea for THE OFFICER originate?
To be honest even until this day I do not know. I know when and where I was when the idea came to me, but I don’t know why it did.
My wife and I live in Florida, and our granddaughter lives in Georgia. The driving time between homes is about 8 hours. During a trip to visit her for her first child’s baby shower my mind started wandering as I drove and the idea of two people falling in love popped into my head. From where it came, I know not.
I let the story distract me from the drive and as I drove additional elements of the story developed. For whatever reason or reasons during my visit, and especially when I wasn’t busy, my mind came wandering back to the story. Something was keeping me from pushing it out of my mind and it stayed with the whole trip and even on the trip return home.
NEXT: What happened when I got home?

