Leigh Goff

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Wine & Words: Swirl, Sip, Scribble

By Leigh Goff
clear wine glass

Photo by Torsten Dettlaff on Pexels.com

Wine tasting and writing fiction may seem like two very different realms, but when you look closer, you’ll see that they share intriguing similarities. Both experiences involve sensory exploration and the art of storytelling.

I recently began a journey into wine tasting and passed my level 2 certification (yes, the homework rocks). How wine tasting appeals to me is similar to how I feel about writing. After some research, I discovered there is a connection. Just as a wine taster engages their senses to explore the intricacies of a wine, a fiction writer harnesses the power of sensory details to bring their story to life.

A highly skilled winemaker tends to the grapes and the winemaking process to produce a wine like a Napa Cabernet that boasts flavors of ripe blackberries, velvety dark chocolate with subtle hints of cedar, culminating in a full-bodied magical experience on the palate. When I craft a story, I construct compelling plots, drawing on my sensory experiences to enhance them and then refine the work through editing and revision. In my first novel, Disenchanted, the story I created was filled with sensory details. I wanted to immerse the reader in the magic of Sophie’s world, her star-crossed romance, and the haunting history of Old Wethersfield.

green leaf on pile of books

Photo by Wallace Chuck on Pexels.com

Some writers through the centuries, such as Jane Austen, were known to imbibe on too much wine. Research from the University of Graz shows that drinking wine enhances creative thinking for writers. Of course, it does! Now winemakers are harnessing the art of storytelling to enhance their connection with consumers. Using a new phone app called Winerytale, the user can unlock videos, narratives, and histories about a wine and learn about the winemakers.

While wine tasting and writing fiction may seem unrelated, the parallels are undeniable. Both pursuits involve sensory exploration, layered complexity, subjective interpretation, storytelling, and a blend of artistry and craftsmanship. The next time you savor a glass of Napa Cabernet or dive into a captivating fantasy novel, take a moment to appreciate the shared essence of these two worlds, where sensory delights and imaginative tales intertwine. Cheers!

79410-leigh2bgoff-1502bret.jpgLeigh Goff I have three published young adult novels–KOUSH HOLLOW (2020), BEWITCHING HANNAH (2017), and DISENCHANTED (2015). I’m a graduate from the University of Maryland, and a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).When I’m not writing, I love reading, running, and finding new inspiration for my writing. I’m a proud advocate for type one diabetes awareness (T1D) as a thriving individual with the condition.

Learn more about her and her writing on her website. Stay connected on Instagram, Twitter, and Amazon.


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Double, Double, Toil & Trouble

By Leigh Goff

As the days grow cooler and the holidays approach, it’s time to get your book club in the mood for magic! Here are some fun ideas on how to brew up a fabulous gathering for your next book club meeting.

First, you want to set the mood. Change your meeting space into a cozy gathering spot. Dim the overhead lighting, break out the scented candles, and dangle fairy lights. Display seasonal decor such as pumpkins and autumn leaves (or pine boughs and berries for winter). Don’t forget to drape soft throw blankets over your seating and fluff the throw pillows to make your guests extra comfortable.

Create a magical menu of potions and treats to fuel your book discussion. Serve a variety of herbal teas or a fun cocktail like Midnight Magic Espresso Martini (recipe below) on a beautiful tray. Offer snacks like magical mushrooms (stuffed mushrooms), witches’ fingers and dip (veggie sticks with hummus), or moonbeam macarons (store bought is fine!).

Encourage guests to dress in themed costumes. Invite a tarot card reader to start the evening on a mystical note. Give guests a takeaway “magic bag” filled with herbal teas, crystals, love potions (perfume samples), or patchouli scented votive candles.

Finally, 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?

Recommended Witchy Reads

Buy Links

Midnight Magic Espresso Martiniimages

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz Vodka
  • 1/2 oz Kahlúa
  • 1/2 oz Crème de Cacao Dark Chocolate liqueur
  • 1 shot of Espresso
  • 1/2 oz Chocolate Simple Syrup (simple syrup with a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder)
  • 3 espresso beans

Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, Kahlúa, Crème de Cacao, and espresso.
  2. Add simple syrup and stir to combine.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously to combine and chill.
  4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish with three espresso beans and cast your spell.

As I sip this midnight brew,
I conjure magic, old and true.
With every taste, my senses align,
And the magic within me starts to shine.

Cheers to a magical meeting, book clubbers!

CONNECT

79410-leigh2bgoff-1502bret.jpgJoin the enchanted community! Connect with Leigh and her readers to receive exclusive content, news and updates by clicking the blue “Follow” button.


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Secrets to Crafting Authentic YA Voices

As a YA author, I’m obsessed with getting teen voices right. There’s something magical about capturing the messy, vibrant, and unique way teenagers think, talk, and navigate the world. It’s not just about slang or pop culture references—it’s about tapping into the intense emotions and perspectives that make YA stories resonate.

Here’s a peek into how I craft authentic teen voices, honed through years of writing, revising, and listening.

First, I eavesdrop (shamelessly, but ethically, of course!). Whether it’s teens chatting at a Starbucks or bantering on social media, I pay attention to the rhythms—how they interrupt each other, use hyperbole, or toss in sarcasm. For example, I once overheard a teen describe a bad day as ‘an apocalyptic dumpster fire.’ Tell me that doesn’t sum up a bad day in a most dramatic but honest way. Observing teens in the real world helps me avoid the trap of writing what I think they sound like, which can feel like a parent trying too hard to be cool.

Beyond dialogue, I like to ground my characters in their emotional truth. I often start by outlining them, figuring out their fears, crushes, and dreams. This uncovers their quirks and contradictions. For example, a main character’s snarky exterior might be hiding a quiet longing for the one boy who frustrates her the most because he makes her see herself in a new, yet scary way. It’s messy, but that’s what makes her feel real.

I also rely on beta readers, especially younger readers, to tell me when a line lands or flops. One reader flagged a scene where my character texted in full sentences—apparently, no self-respecting Gen Z-er does that. Now, I pepper in abbreviations and emojis, but sparingly, to keep it natural.

Writing authentic teen voices is a balancing act. It’s about respecting teens’ complexity while keeping the story accessible and true to the genre’s heart. Every draft, I’m learning to listen more closely—to teens, to my characters, and to the story they want to tell. It’s a challenge, but when a reader says, “This feels like me,” it’s worth every revision.

What’s your favorite YA voice that feels spot-on? I’d love to hear in the comments.

If you’re interested in checking out my books, please click the link below.

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The Ultimate Bucket List for Book Lovers

By Leigh Goff

Whether you’re a casual reader or a voracious bookworm, here is a list for you. From iconic bookstores to literary festivals, I’ve put together an ultimate bucket list of literary experiences that will make your heart skip a beat.

Bookstores to Fall in Love With

Hatchards (London, UK) is Britain’s oldest surviving bookshop, founded in 1797, where you can find rare books and literary treasures.

Shakespeare and Company (Paris, France). This charming bookstore was a hub for Beat Generation writers and still welcomes book lovers with open arms, offering a cozy atmosphere and a wide variety of literary works. Fun fact—this store is featured in “Before Sunset” (2004) and “Midnight in Paris” (2011)

The Strand (New York City, USA). With over 18 miles of shelves, this iconic store is a treasure trove for book enthusiasts, featuring a vast selection of new, used, and rare books. Fun fact—this store is featured in “You’ve Got Mail” (1998) and “The Nanny Diaries” (2007)

Old Fox Books & Coffee House (Annapolis, Maryland, USA). This beloved independent bookstore is a personal favorite of mine and has been a staple of Annapolis’s historic district since 1997, offering a curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books, as well as regular author events and book signings.

City Lights Bookstore (San Francisco, USA). This iconic store was a hub for the Beat Generation and continues to be a hub for literary activity, featuring a vast selection of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction.

Powell’s City of Books (Portland, Oregon, USA). Spanning an entire city block, this massive bookstore is a must-visit for book lovers, featuring an enormous selection of new, used, and rare books. Featured in “Portlandia” (TV series, 2011-2018) and”Wild” (2014)

Square Books (Oxford, Mississippi, USA). This beloved Southern bookstore has been a hub for literary activity since 1979, featuring a curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books, as well as regular author events and book signings.

The Elliott Bay Book Company (Seattle, Washington, USA). This iconic independent bookstore has been a staple of Seattle’s literary scene since 1973, featuring a curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, as well as regular author events and book signings. This store is also featured in two films, “Sleepless in Seattle” (1993) and”10 Things I Hate About You” (1999).

Fabulous Literary Festivals 

The Hay Festival (Hay-on-Wye, UK). Join authors, poets, and thinkers for a celebration of literature and ideas in this charming Welsh town, which features a diverse range of events, talks, and workshops. Notable authors who have attended include Bill Clinton, Stephen Fry, Nigella Lawson, and Ian McEwan.

The Brooklyn Book Festival (New York City, USA). Meet authors, attend readings, and explore the city’s vibrant literary scene, which showcases the best of contemporary literature and offers a unique opportunity to connect with authors and publishers. Held annually in September and has featured authors such as Jonathan Lethem, Zadie Smith, Michael Cunningham, and Jennifer Egan.

The Iowa Writers’ Workshop (Iowa City, USA). Attend a writing workshop or conference at this prestigious institution, which has nurtured some of the world’s most renowned writers and offers a unique opportunity to learn from experienced faculty.

The Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference (Middlebury, USA). Join esteemed authors and editors for a week of writing, learning, and networking in the picturesque Vermont countryside, where you can refine your craft and connect with fellow writers.

The Charleston Conference (Charleston, South Carolina, USA). Join authors, publishers, and librarians for a celebration of literature and learning in this charming Southern city, which features a diverse range of events, talks, and workshops.

The Texas Book Festival (Austin, Texas, USA). Join authors, publishers, and book lovers for a celebration of literature and learning in this vibrant Texas city, which features a diverse range of events, talks, and workshops. Held annually in October and has featured notable authors such as Notable authors who have attended: Neil Gaiman, J.K. Rowling, Michael Chabon, and Joyce Carol Oates

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books (Los Angeles, California, USA). Meet authors, attend readings, and explore the city’s vibrant literary scene, which showcases the best of contemporary literature and offers a unique opportunity to connect with authors and publishers. Held annually in April and has been attended by authors such as Donna Tartt, Michael Connelly, Gayle Forman, and Rainbow Rowell.

Extra Literary Experiences to Savor

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (Key West, USA). Explore the legendary author’s former residence and discover his writing inspirations, which offer a unique glimpse into his life and work. I’ve been here and the six-toed kitties who roam the house and grounds freely are adorable.

Take a Literary Walking Tour of London. Follow in the footsteps of Dickens, Austen, and other literary greats as you explore the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems, which provide a fascinating insight into the city’s literary heritage.

Attend a Poetry Slam or Spoken Word Event. Experience the thrill of live performance and discover new voices in the world of poetry, which offers a unique opportunity to connect with poets and writers.

The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum Tour (Hannibal, Missouri, USA). Explore the childhood home and museum of America’s most

Bewitching Hannah Tour (Annapolis, MD). Follow my main character’s adventures around beautiful colonial downtown Annapolis, Maryland.

More about 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 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. If you’d like to read Bewitching Hannah, you can purchase a copy of at Amazon.com and visit downtown Annapolis. For more information on the historic sights, click here.

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Unleash Your Fantasy✨

How to Channel Your Favorite Fantasy Characters

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!

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.

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79410-leigh2bgoff-1502bret.jpgJoin the enchanted community! Connect with Leigh and her readers to receive exclusive content, news and updates by clicking the blue “Follow” button.


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A Tea Party Steeped in Magic–Annapolis, 1774

Unknown-2Steeped 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.

Unknown-3Eventually 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…

51l+xEpRjJL._SX331_BO1,204,203,200_

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.

BUY LINKS

Amazon

B&N

IndieBound

CONNECT

79410-leigh2bgoff-1502bret.jpgJoin the enchanted community! Connect with Leigh and her readers to receive exclusive content, news and updates by clicking the blue “Follow” button.


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The Spellbinding Book Club

by Leigh Goff

selective focus photography of several people cheering wine glasses

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?

Recommended Witchy Reads

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.
 
 
 
61P16ZY4r8S._SL500_
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.
 
Buy Links

 

Midnight Magic Espresso Martiniimages

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz Vodka
  • 1/2 oz Kahlúa
  • 1/2 oz Crème de Cacao Dark Chocolate liqueur
  • 1 shot of Espresso
  • 1/2 oz Chocolate Simple Syrup (simple syrup with a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder)
  • 3 espresso beans

Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, Kahlúa, Crème de Cacao, and espresso.
  2. Add simple syrup and stir to combine.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously to combine and chill.
  4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish with three espresso beans and cast your spell.

As I sip this midnight brew,
I conjure magic, old and true.
With every taste, my senses align,
And the magic within me starts to shine.

Cheers to a magical meeting, book clubbers!

CONNECT

79410-leigh2bgoff-1502bret.jpgJoin the enchanted community! Connect with Leigh and her readers to receive exclusive content, news and updates by clicking the blue “Follow” button.
 
 
 
 


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The Koush Hollow Audiobook is Available Now!

Screen Shot 2021-09-23 at 8.33.12 AMFive-star review from Jessica Julien-Audiobook Reviewer
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟”Today, I have a  great audiobook for you to check out that is dark & mysterious, witty & charming, & downright Southern Gothic…overall it was an awesome listen that you should all check out!!

BUY LINKS: | Amazon | iBooks | Audible