Mirror World Publishing and Sapphyria’s Book Promotions present the cover reveal for the
Against All Odds Anthology (Far, Far Away, Vol 3).
About Against All Odds:
Love wins against the odds, in tumultuous times, unlikely circumstances, and dangerous places…
Volume three of our Far, Far Away series brings seven authors together to put a spotlight on stories of love that transcend adversity.
Step across the galaxy to a world where love defies the odds. Fight for love when the well-being of family and friends are threatened. Witness unlikely and daring relationships. Then learn the meaning of self-love through a powerful and unique tale.
Through this collection of stories, love is revealed to be the ultimate risk, giving you purpose when the world turns dark and strange, and proving time and again that it crosses all barriers. In this collection, love conquers all.
Which fictional character resonates with you the most? As a young adult author, I’m always inspired by strong, spirited females who are on a journey of self-discovery like Sophie Goodchild in my debut novel, Disenchanted. Perhaps for you, it is the resourceful and determined Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games, or the charismatic and powerful Simon Lewis from The Mortal Instruments. Who inspires you?
Consider the values and traits that make them special. Is your favorite character brave and selfless like Tris Prior of the Divergent series, intelligent and resourceful like Hermione Granger of the Harry Potter series, or confident and charismatic like Magnus Bane of the Mortal Instruments series? To channel your magical character, incorporate their positive habits and practices into your day that reflect their magical world, such as visualizing your goals, meditating, or learning a new language.
To unleash your fantasy alter ego, you can transform your living space into an enchanted sanctuary that both reflects your personality and inspires your imagination, such as creating a cozy reading nook filled with your favorite fantasy novels (and maybe some new ones!) and comfy pillows. Indulge in spreading the magic. You can host fun gatherings like fantasy movie nights, card game nights, and DIY craft sessions where you and your friends make fun potions or dream catchers.
Before you know it, you’ll be living like your favorite fictional character. Have fun, stay true to yourself, and always keep a touch of magic in your life!
Meet Sophie Goodchild, a young witch entangled in a centuries-old curse that has haunted her true love’s family for generations. Join Sophie on a thrilling adventure as she navigates a world of curses, enchantments, and star-crossed romance, where the lines between magic and reality blur. Disenchanted is a heartwarming exploration of the human experience. With its unique blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy, this book will cast a spell on your heart and leave you enchanted from start to finish.
Okay, so it’s not the best takeoff on Marie Antoinette’s infamous saying, but that was my little way of announcing that January is National Soup Month. It’s true. You can check it out on Wikipedia. In honor of this auspicious event, my January posts will be dedicated to soup, well, at least the Wednesday posts. So tie on your aprons and let’s get cooking!
Cream of Mushroom Soup
1 lb. fresh mushrooms – use 2 or 3 different types
8 tbsp. butter
2 small shallots or scallions, finely chopped
6 tbsp. flour
1 qt. chicken stock *
¼ cup dry sherry
2 egg yolks
½ cup heavy cream
White pepper**
Clean mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Pull the stems and caps apart. Put pieces in a food processor. Run until chopped. The mix will almost look like a paste. Or fine dice the mushrooms by hand.
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a 10-12 inch skillet. Add mushrooms and shallots and sauté for 3 minutes. Set the skillet aside.
In a heavy 6-quart saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Remove pan from the heat and stir in the flour. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Do NOT let this brown too much or it will be bitter. The roux should be no darker than a caramel/tan.
Remove the pan from the heat. Allow to cool 10-15 seconds, then pour in the stock while whisking constantly. Return the pan to a medium-high heat and stir until the soup base thickens and is smooth, approximately 12-15 minutes.
Stir in the mushrooms and sherry. Simmer for 15 minutes, but be sure to stir occasionally.
Blend the egg yolks into the cream with a whisk. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of hot soup at a time until you’ve added ¾ cup. Reverse the process and slowly whisk the now-warm mixture into the soup. ***
Bring soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Remove the pan from the heat. Taste and season with pepper.
Serve from a tureen or in individual bowls.
This recipe makes 6 bowls
*You can substitute up to half the amount with dry white wine
**In this recipe white pepper is used for its slightly sharper taste. There is no need to make a special trip to buy white pepper. Black pepper will work fine, just use a little more.
***This may seem like extra work, but if you don’t do it the yolks and cream will curdle.
Happy slurping!
Sloane Taylor is an Award-Winning romance author with a passion that consumes her day and night. She is an avid cook and posts new recipes on her blog every Wednesday. The recipes are user friendly, meaning easy.
Few things ignite a YA fandom like a love triangle and since Valentine’s Day is near, let’s delve into the hot topic. Whether it’s Peeta vs. Gale, Edward vs. Jacob, or my personal fave, Hayden vs. Parker (in my novel, Koush Hollow) readers love taking sides. But why do we get so invested in these fictional relationships?
Love triangles thrive on tension. One love interest represents the safe choice, the other excitement and danger. One is the best friend who’s always been there, the other is the mysterious newcomer. The best triangles force characters and readers to question what they truly want in love.
A well-written love triangle isn’t just about romance; it’s about identity. Who will the protagonist become? Their choice isn’t just about who to kiss, it’s about who they see themselves with in the future. That’s what keeps readers turning pages (and debating furiously in the comments section).
So why do we, as readers, feel the need to choose a side? First, there’s the emotional Investment. We see ourselves in certain characters, and their happiness feels personal. If we identify with the quiet, loyal best friend, we’re rooting for them. If we love a little danger and unpredictability, we’re all in on the brooding bad boy.
Then there’s the thrill of the chase. The slow burn, the stolen glances, the will-they-won’t-they dynamic that fuel our attachment.
Let’s not forget the tropes. Some readers live for the friends-to-lovers trope, while others crave the enemies-to-lovers dynamic (my personal favorite). Love triangles let us pit these classic arcs against each other.
So let me know your thoughts in the comments. Are love triangles an exciting source of drama or an overused trope? Have you ever changed teams midway through a book? And most importantly, which YA love triangle still haunts you? If you’re looking for a new love triangle, I’m including a link so you can head to the mystical Bayou in KOUSH HOLLOW and cheer on #TeamHayden or #TeamParker!
In the depths of the bayou, where cypress trees tower and Spanish moss hangs like a curtain of secrets, lies the mysterious town of Koush Hollow, where the glittering facade of wealth and beauty conceals a deadly truth. Sixteen-year-old Jenna joins her mother’s elite social club, the Diamonds & Pearls, which reigns supreme. As Jenna delves into the club’s seductive world and a steamy love triangle, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies. As she falls into a tantalizing love triangle, she encounters ancient magic and shocking revelations that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. Will she survive the perfect facade of Koush Hollow with Parker by her side, or will Hayden help her unravel the deadly secrets buried beneath? A captivating tale of mystery, magic, and self-discovery, Koush Hollow will draw you into its dark, mystical world and refuse to let go.
Searching for the perfect Christmas gift to empower girls?
As the holiday season approaches, finding the perfect gift for the special girls in your life can be a daunting task. You want something that inspires, empowers, and sparks imagination. Look no further than the young adult (YA) section of your favorite bookstore (online or on Main Street) where novels transport readers to enchanting worlds and magic is woven into everyday life. These kinds of stories not only inspire girls to tap into their imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills, but by embracing the fantastical, girls can develop a sense of wonder, curiosity, and innovation – essential qualities for navigating the complexities of the modern world.
The YA books I’ve written offer a diverse range of female characters with their own unique experiences, struggles, and triumphs. These characters are more than just protagonists – they’re role models, inspiring girls to embrace their individuality, challenge societal norms, and tap into their inner strength and courage. By reading about strong, complex female characters like the ones in my novels, girls can develop a positive self-image, build confidence, and learn to navigate the complexities of growing up. What’s more magical than that?
Immerse yourself in a spellbinding tale of magic, forbidden love, and self-discovery. Meet Hannah Fitzgerald, a young witch who’s unlocking her powers and succumbing to a whirlwind romance. As she navigates her newfound abilities, Hannah confronts a web of challenges that will keep you under its spell. With its Beauty and the Beast-inspired twist, this captivating story will cast a hold on your heart and keep you turning the pages until the very end.
Meet Sophie Goodchild, a young witch entangled in a centuries-old curse that has haunted her true love’s family for generations. Join Sophie on a thrilling adventure as she navigates a world of curses, enchantments, and star-crossed romance, where the lines between magic and reality blur. Disenchanted is a heartwarming exploration of the human experience. With its unique blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy, this book will cast a spell on your heart and leave you enchanted from start to finish.
In the depths of the bayou, where cypress trees tower and Spanish moss hangs like a curtain of secrets, lies the mysterious town of Koush Hollow, where the glittering facade of wealth and beauty conceals a deadly truth. Sixteen-year-old Jenna joins her mother’s elite social club, the Diamonds & Pearls, which reigns supreme. As Jenna delves into the club’s seductive world, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies. As she digs deeper, she encounters ancient magic, hidden dangers, and shocking revelations that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. Will she survive the treacherous landscape of Koush Hollow, or will its secrets silence her forever? A captivating tale of mystery, magic, and self-discovery, Koush Hollow will draw you into its dark, mystical world and refuse to let go.
The perfect casserole for any occasion, especially holiday feasts. These super scalloped potatoes compliment any main dish your serve at your table. Tender potatoes in a creamy onion sauce baked to golden perfection would make any mouth water. Whether you’re serving spiral ham, pork chops, poultry or beef, this tasty side-dish makes six servings to share with family, friends, or friends of friends. With a prep time of 25 minutes, cook time of 1 hour and 20 minutes, and a rest time of 15 minutes for a total of 1 hour and 45 minutes, you’ve got plenty of time to visit with your company, and enjoy a glass of your favorite libation. Cheers!
Super Side Dish Scalloped Potatoes
Homemade Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Cheese and Spices
¼ cup butter
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup flour2 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
3 pounds of white potatoes, sliced about ⅛” thick
Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 350°F
Sauce
To make the sauce, melt butter, onion, and garlic over medium-low heat. Cook until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Reduce heat to low. Combine milk and broth. Add a small amount at a time whisking to thicken. The mixture will become very thick, continue adding a little bit of liquid at a time whisking until smooth.
Once all the liquid has been added, bring to a boil over medium heat while continuing to whisk. Stir in salt and pepper and let boil 1 minute.
Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish. Place ⅓ of the potatoes in the bottom and season with salt and pepper. Pour ⅓ of the cream sauce over top.
Repeat layers ending with cream sauce. Cover and bake for 45 minutes.
Uncover and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes or until golden brown, and potatoes are tender. Broil for 3-4 minutes to obtain a golden top.
Allow to rest for 15 minutes before serving.
This casserole is also a wonderful side-dish to include at your holiday get-togethers too, making a great substitute for mashed or roast potatoes. Try it. You just might love it! Once dinner is done, and you’ve got some free time on your hands, why not dig into your next read? May I suggest a visit to mysterious Fairy Falls, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, a trip back in time with The Last Timekeepers? Whichever you choose, either series will take you on a journey far, far away from entertaining the masses.
Sharon Ledwith is the author of the middle-grade/YA time travel series, THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS, and the teen psychic mystery series, MYSTERIOUS TALES FROM FAIRY FALLS. When not writing, researching, or revising, she enjoys reading, exercising, anything arcane, and an occasional dram of scotch. Sharon lives a serene, yet busy life in a southern tourist region of Ontario, Canada, with her hubby, and spends as much time as possible with her amazing grandson.
Steeped in rebellion and patriotism, the Annapolis Tea Party remains a pivotal moment in American history. In Bewitching Hannah, the historic Annapolis Tea Party has a magical connection to the novel’s characters and the event is highlighted in the story’s climax.
It was October 1774, and the Peggy Stewart brig arrived in Annapolis from London…loaded with tea. Since this was not the first time the owner, Anthony Stewart, had tried to import banned goods, he decided in order to unload the two thousand pounds of tea, he would pay the tax.
Colonial Annapolitans rushed into a rage and demanded Mr. Stewart be publicly punished by tarring and feathering him. They protested in front of his house, threatening his life and his family. A local committee of Maryland citizens decided the best course of action was to burn the Peggy Stewart and her cargo in the harbor.
The night of October 19th, 1774, several patriots including Charles Ridgely accompanied Mr. Stewart on board the brig. Mr. Stewart hesitated to touch his torch to the ship until Mr. Ridgely warned him that if he didn’t, his life would be in danger. The ship and her cargo burned and sank in the harbor, thereby entering the Annapolis Tea Party into the history books.
Eventually and in fear for his life, Mr. Stewart relocated to Nova Scotia, Canada. As for the ship, according to the Maryland Historical Society Library, the Peggy Stewart‘s remains lay beneath what is now Luce Hall at the U. S. Naval Academy.
In the excerpt below, Hannah, a reluctant sixteen-year-old witch, discusses her fear of October 19th—the date of the upcoming tea party reenactment.
EXCERPT
“I want to assume you found the trunk key I left for you, and you’ve been studying your father’s notes from the attic. If you’ve been up to anything more than that do not tell me,” Aunt J said.
“I have been reading his notes.”
“Good. Keep doing that, but you should know something else. Your father’s ring, the one on your hand—there is more to it than meets the eye. Your father was working on its secret before he died, but he never figured it out.”
“He always told me it held a secret and secrets would reveal themselves to me once I proved worthy.”
“That’s true, and I have a feeling you’re exactly the worthy kind of witch that ring deserves. You need to pick up where he left off. Uncover its secret. You might need it.”
I stared at the Fitzgerald crest, the weight of my heritage falling heavy on my shoulders. “The way you say it scares me.”
“You need to be scared.” She stared straight ahead, but her knuckles on the steering wheel paled white as she gripped it harder.
“How much time do you think I have?”
“I don’t know. Momentous events surrounding witches usually occur during planet alignments or natural disasters.”
I wasn’t clairvoyant like Mrs. Meier, so predicting a volcanic eruption or tidal wave was out of the question unless the date came to me in a fog-free dream. However, I wasn’t counting on that. I reached for my phone and Googled “upcoming astral events.” I scrolled through the list. My eyes nearly popped out of my head—one impending big, amazing, blood moon-slash-total lunar eclipse. With anxious fingers, I checked my phone calendar. The eclipse was occurring on October nineteenth, the night of the tea party re-enactment. I swallowed the lump in my throat and slipped the phone back in my pocket. Aunt J would be there with other members of the coven for the painting unveiling and everyone else in town for the re-enactment. I sighed, frustrated. “Can you drop me off at Mateo’s.”
“Mateo? We’re talking about your actual life, not your social life.”
“I promised him.”
She frowned. “If you prunus domestica to consider what I’ve told you.”
“I promise that, too.” We parked in front of Mateo’s house. I waved goodbye to Aunt J and dashed to the front door.
Summer greeted me with a huge smile. “Come in. I’m glad you’re okay.” Her gaze drifted to the cloudless blue sky. “Why do you look so damp and disheveled?”
I sighed, filled with frustration and stress. “Long story.”
“Mateo’s in the backyard. He’s been waiting to show you his stupid sacred treasures,” she said as if it wasn’t a big deal to anyone except Mateo. She pointed to the sliding glass doors. “He’s out there, but come back when you’re done.”
“Sure.”
Mateo, sitting at the sunny picnic bench in the middle of the yard, eyed me up and down. He set his small brush down. “You look like you got in a fight with a fish and the fish won.”
“Maybe I did.”
“Seriously?”
I shrugged. “Emme.”
“She doesn’t know when to quit, does she?”
“That’s for sure.”
He puttered around with a shell thingy. “So you gonna tell me exactly what happened after you left the beach by the cliff?”
I slid onto the bench opposite him. “Stupid really. Went to the pond, got distracted, and fell into a drainage ditch.”
He laughed. “I’m serious.”
“Me, too. Fortunately, I didn’t die there.”
“What had you so distracted you didn’t see the ditch?”
“Siris, my raven showed up.”
He looked up from cleaning. “I thought familiars were supposed to be helpful.”
“He was helpful. It was my fault. I wasn’t paying attention.”
“So what happened?”
I pressed my lips together, not sure how he would take the news. “That’s where William found me.”
BEWITCHING HANNAH
Being a witch is the last thing Hannah wants…
Immerse yourself in a spellbinding tale of magic, forbidden love, and self-discovery. Meet sixteen-year-old Hannah Fitzgerald, a reluctant witch who’s hesitant to unlock her powers while succumbing to a whirlwind, star-crossed romance.
As she navigates her newfound abilities, Hannah confronts a web of challenges and secrets that will keep you under her spell. With its Beauty and the Beast-inspired twist, this captivating story will cast a hold on your heart and keep you turning the pages until the very end.
In March of 2013, we had the best editor pitch in our careers—the one that sold our book The Turning Stone Chronicles—The Promised One to Soul Mate Publishing. It wasn’t the first time we had pitched this book, or others, and it probably won’t be the last time we have to pitch. Pitching is a constant for any writer and that face-to-face contact goes a long way. Along our journey we’ve picked up a lot of tips. Here are twelve pointers we hope you’ll find helpful.
• Dress for success. Whether you realize it or not, this is a job interview. Even though you might type in your PJs, you want to make a good first impression on the editor.
• Make a cheat sheet note card (small enough to fit discreetly in your hand) with your title, subgenre, book length, hook, your blurb and any contests the book finaled in. These are notes for you, not for the editor. We all get nervous and forget the simplest things. A cheat sheet comes in handy when this happens.
• Smile. It makes you look confident.
• Keep eye contact with the editor. This also helps you look confident.
• Give her your business card. Make sure all your contact information is on your card: website, email, telephone, and any other contact information you’d like to add. We put our book blurb on the back of our business card so it’s available for her to read (should she choose) after we’ve left. It’s also a great way to keep your story in front of her since most editors don’t accept one-sheets or other papers at a conference, but they will accept your business cards. Remember, they have to carry anything they accept back with them on the plane.
• Take a deep breath and talk distinctly and slowly. It’s natural to speak quickly when you’re nervous, but in a room with several other editors and writers giving their pitches it’s easy to miss words that are said too fast.
• Start your pitch with your book title and book cover blurb. Don’t read it—memorize it. Do your best to make it sound like you’re telling a friend about your book, not reeling off a commercial. Practice makes perfect on this hint. After you hooked her, hopefully, with your great blurb, let her know the subgenre, length, contest wins, or other pertinent information about the book.
• Be enthusiastic about your book. She’ll notice your passion and it could spark her interest.
• Keep your initial presentation to about half the time allotted for the pitch. This leaves time for her to ask questions.
• If you see she’s not interested, or she says she just bought something like it, or you have extra time, have another book ready to pitch. Just make sure it’s in a genre she’s accepting. Catherine actually pitched three books in one session because her initial pitch went so fast. The editor asked to see all three!
• Ask her how to submit. Make sure you get her business card with contact information. There’s nothing worse than leaving the interview and realizing you didn’t find out where to send your manuscript. And, yes, Catherine has been so nervous and excited that an editor asked for her book that she walked out without her contact information.
• Don’t forget to say, “Thanks” as you leave. This may seem like a given, but in tense situations it’s easy for things slip your mind, as noted by Catherine’s mistake in the hint above. If she doesn’t ask for your book, be sure to thank her for her time. You don’t want to burn any bridges. You might have another book later you’ll want to pitch to the same editor or house.
Our chance came, not at a scheduled meeting, but at the breakfast table. When you’re at a conference you need to be ready to give your pitch at anytime. Just keep it short and to the point.
Do you have any tips to add to this? Please insert them in the comments.
Here’s a little from our latest release, a time-slip book. We hope you like it.
Susan Trowbridge is the victim of mistaken identity, trapped in the past by a ghost and a haunted wedding gown. To return home she must discover the identity of the ghost’s murderer. Can Susan stop the murder, or will history repeat itself, with her as the victim this time? And if she does stop the murder, must she return home and leave the man she has come to love?
Duncan Hawthorn is a man battling his own demons. But when Susan falls into his life, Duncan finds himself inexplicably attracted to a woman he thought he hated. Should he believe she is in danger? Should he believe her irrational claims that she is from the future? Either way, he realizes he will lose the woman who has become his salvation and his true love.
C.D. Hersh–Two hearts creating everlasting love stories.
Putting words and stories on paper is second nature to award-winning co-authors C.D. Hersh.
They’ve written separately since they were teenagers and discovered their unique, collaborative abilities in the mid-90s. As high school sweethearts and husband and wife, Catherine and Donald believe in true love and happily ever after.
Their paranormal series titled The Turning Stone Chronicles can be found on Amazon.
They are looking forward to many years of co-authoring and book sales, and a lifetime of happily-ever-after endings on the page and in real life.
Double, double, toil and trouble…Get your book club in the mood for magic! Here are some fun ideas on how to brew up a fun gathering for your next book club meeting.
First, you want to set the mood. Transform your meeting space into a cozy gathering spot. Dim the lighting, light scented candles, and add fairy lights. Display seasonal decor such as pumpkins and leaves for the fall (or pine boughs and berries during winter). Don’t forget soft throw blankets and pillows to make your guests extra comfortable.
Create a magical menu of potions and treats to fuel your book discussion. You can serve a variety of herbal teas or a fun cocktail like Midnight Magic Espresso Martini (recipe below). For snacks, you need magical munchies like magical mushrooms (stuffed mushrooms), witches’ fingers (veggie sticks), or moonbeam macarons.
Encourage guests to dress in witchy attire or a theme color. Invite a tarot card reader to start the evening on a mystical note. Give guests a “magic bag” filled with herbal teas, crystals, love potions (perfume samples), or patchouli scented votive candles.
After an evening of good food, delicious drinks, and lively discussion, close the meeting with a gratitude circle. Ask the group to join hands and offer appreciation for each other, the books, and the magic of friendship. What could be better?
Immerse yourself in a spellbinding tale of magic, forbidden love, and self-discovery. Meet Hannah Fitzgerald, a young witch who’s unlocking her powers and succumbing to a whirlwind romance. As she navigates her newfound abilities, Hannah confronts a web of challenges that will keep you under its spell. With its Beauty and the Beast-inspired twist, this captivating story will cast a hold on your heart and keep you turning the pages until the very end.
Meet Sophie Goodchild, a young witch entangled in a centuries-old curse that has haunted her true love’s family for generations. Join Sophie on a thrilling adventure as she navigates a world of curses, enchantments, and star-crossed romance, where the lines between magic and reality blur. Disenchanted is a heartwarming exploration of the human experience. With its unique blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy, this book will cast a spell on your heart and leave you enchanted from start to finish.
In the depths of the bayou, where cypress trees tower and Spanish moss hangs like a curtain of secrets, lies the mysterious town of Koush Hollow, where the glittering facade of wealth and beauty conceals a deadly truth. Sixteen-year-old Jenna joins her mother’s elite social club, the Diamonds & Pearls, which reigns supreme. As Jenna delves into the club’s seductive world, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies. As she digs deeper, she encounters ancient magic, hidden dangers, and shocking revelations that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. Will she survive the treacherous landscape of Koush Hollow, or will its secrets silence her forever? A captivating tale of mystery, magic, and self-discovery, Koush Hollow will draw you into its dark, mystical world and refuse to let go.
As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, a sense of excitement and mystery surrounds us. The Witching Season is upon us and with it comes a world of magic, wonder, and enchantment.
It’s a season of long nights and dark skies, ideal for stargazing, moon-gazing, and connecting with the mysteries of the universe. It’s also a time of shadows, when the light of day gives way to the darkness of night and when the boundaries between reality and fantasy are blurred.
In many ancient cultures, Autumn was when the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest, making it the perfect time for communicating with spirits and casting incantations. Below is an enchanting incantation to tap into your own inner magic. It’s definitely a spell one of my daring main characters would use to summon courage and strength. After all, what is a witch but a powerful woman. I’m also including a link to my books (paperback, kindle, audio) that pair bewitchingly well with the season!
✨Power of Autumn Incantation (repeat three times)
By the power of the moon so bright,
I call upon my inner strength tonight.
With crystal clear and heart so true,
I claim my power, and all I do.
I am the witch, with magic might,
I conjure power, with all my sight.
I am the goddess, with energy so bold,
I manifest my dreams, with a heart of gold.
By the power of the elements so fine,
I seal my spell, with a witch’s sign.
So mote it be, with magic so bright,
I am powerful, and all is right.
Books for the Witching Season
Bewitching Hannah
Immerse yourself in a spellbinding tale of magic, forbidden love, and self-discovery. Meet Hannah Fitzgerald, a young witch who’s unlocking her powers and succumbing to a whirlwind romance.
As she navigates her newfound abilities, Hannah confronts a web of challenges that will keep you under her spell. With its Beauty and the Beast-inspired twist, this captivating story will cast a hold on your heart and keep you turning the pages until the very end.
Disenchanted
Meet Sophie Goodchild, a young witch entangled in a centuries-old curse that has haunted her true love’s family for generations. Join Sophie on a thrilling adventure as she navigates a world of curses, enchantments, and star-crossed romance, where the lines between magic and reality blur. Disenchanted is a heartwarming exploration of the human experience. With its unique blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy, this book will cast a spell on your heart and leave you enchanted from start to finish.
Koush Hollow
In the depths of the bayou, where cypress trees tower and Spanish moss hangs like a curtain of secrets, lies the mysterious town of Koush Hollow, where the glittering facade of wealth and beauty conceals a deadly truth. Sixteen-year-old Jenna joins her mother’s elite social club, the Diamonds & Pearls, which reigns supreme. As Jenna delves into the club’s seductive world, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies. As she digs deeper, she encounters ancient magic, hidden dangers, and shocking revelations that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. Will she survive the treacherous landscape of Koush Hollow, or will its secrets silence her forever? A captivating tale of mystery, magic, and self-discovery, Koush Hollow will draw you into its dark, mystical world and refuse to let go.
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Steeped in rebellion and patriotism, the Annapolis Tea Party remains a pivotal moment in American history. In Bewitching Hannah, the historic Annapolis Tea Party has a magical connection to the novel’s characters and the event is highlighted in the story’s climax. 
Eventually and in fear for his life, Mr. Stewart relocated to Nova Scotia, Canada. As for the ship, according to the Maryland Historical Society Library, the Peggy Stewart‘s remains lay beneath what is now Luce Hall at the U. S. Naval Academy.
Leigh Goff 