Coal Dust to Stardust is a delightful and romantic work of fiction with a strong, unforgettable heroine, Emily Marie Taylor. All Emily ever wanted was to make her mark in the country music world. Emily, a beautiful, sweet, country girl with flaming red hair and emerald green eyes captures the attention of three men. All love her and all attempt to win her love through various means: dedication, obsession, and deception. Set in the turbulent 60s, the story begins with Emily appearing as the opening act at the Star Dust Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The screams of the fans and the flash of the paparazzi's cameras remind her of how she got there. Through flashbacks, author Tonia Hopson gives us a story that is simultaneously enchanting and heartbreaking, comforting and devastating. Robert Ward, Emily's true love, fathers her child, Hope but is deceived into believing Emily was unfaithful. He leaves and finds a life in another country, only to return and discover that the child may indeed be his own. Enter Joseph Blankenship, the Tennessee millionaire who has suffered unimaginable tragedy, but finds an enduring love with Emily. Then there's Marvin, Emily and Robert's friend who has always held a secret torch for Emily and weaves a web of lies so complex, it shatters the lives of many.Can Emily find the love she so desperately seeks? Will she have to give up her dream of fame and fortune or can she have it all? Tonia Hopson has written a novel with raw emotion and great sensitivity. Filled with unforgettable characters, Coal Dust to Stardust will touch your heart and make you believe that dreams sometimes do come true. Tonia Hopson lives in Eastern Kentucky with her husband of 39 years. She has three sons and three granddaughters. Formerly an elementary school teacher and principal, she now serves as an Instructional Supervisor for the largest school district in her area. Coal Dust to Stardust is her first novel.