Alissa DeRogatis is an author and creator based in Charlotte, North Carolina, known for her debut novel Call It What You Want. This novel, which she self- published, quickly went viral on TikTok and was later acquired by Sourcebooks
. Call It What You Want is a coming-of-age romance that explores the complexities of an unconventional, label-free relationship often described as a "situation-ship." The story follows Sloane Hart, a hopeless romantic whose belief in love is shaken by her parents’ divorce. She meets Ethan Brady, a guarded and mysterious guy, and they start dating without labels, knowing it can't last forever. The novel deals with themes of unrequited love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with readers who have experienced similar ambiguous relationships
. Alissa wrote the book inspired by her own long-term on/off relationship that ended in 2022, using writing as a way to process her emotions and help others feel seen and understood. She aimed to portray unconventional relationships realistically, without romanticizing every interaction, providing a voice for those who have "lost themselves in someone else" whether or not they were officially dating
. The novel has received widespread love and support, especially from readers who find healing and closure through its story. Alissa continues to engage with her audience on social media and is working on a second book
. In summary, Call It What You Want is a heartfelt, relatable novel that captures the bittersweet nature of modern relationships and the emotional challenges they bring, marking a strong debut for Alissa DeRogatis as a writer
