Leigh Goff

Writing Enchanting Ever-Afters


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Why August Feels Like the Most Enchanted Month

August hits different. The sun is still blazing, but there’s a shift in the air—like the world is whispering secrets right before everything changes. Summer isn’t quite over, yet fall is already casting its shadow. It’s the ultimate liminal month, and if you ask me, it’s pure witchy magic.

First, there’s the golden-hour glow. The light gets thicker, almost honeyed, turning ordinary backyards into magical realms. Late-summer storms roll in with dramatic flair, thunder cracking like spells being cast. Then comes the harvest energy—Lammas vibes on August 1, when traditions say the first loaves are baked and the veil feels just a little thinner. Even the nights start stretching, hinting that cozy, mysterious season is coming.

And don’t forget that back-to-school electricity. New notebooks, sharpened pencils, fresh starts… it’s basically ritual preparation. You’re shedding your summer skin and stepping into a new chapter, which is exactly what magic is all about—transformation.

This is precisely why August is the perfect time to dive into DISENCHANTED, my YA fantasy novel. In a world where enchantments rule and star-crossed love runs deep, my protagonist, Sophie, discovers that breaking free of a true love curse is harder than it seems. And similar to Sophie’s magic, sometimes the enchantments dissipate when you least expect it, like when the season shifts—when the light changes and you’re forced to see things as they really are. August captures that exact moment: the beautiful, uneasy, exciting space between what was and what’s next.

If you’re craving a story full of hidden magic, reluctant heroes, and a swoony romance, DISENCHANTED is your late-summer spell. Perfect for reading on a warm evening when the crickets are loud, and the sky still holds that last bit of light.

Grab a copy here, light a candle (or just turn on your reading lamp), and let August work its witchy charm on you before the leaves start turning! ✨


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End of Summer Checklist: Magic, Romance & Renewal Before Classes Begin

Summer is slipping away like fireflies at dusk—make these final weeks count. Before the books pile up and the alarm clocks return, carve out time for joy, mystery, and gentle self-care. Here’s your enchanted end-of-summer checklist.

✨ Magic

  • Watch the sunrise or sunset with intention—journal what you want to release and what you want to call in for the new semester.
  • Take a full-moon walk and whisper your dreams to the night sky.
  • Read DisenchantedBewitching Hannah, and Koush Hollow—these spellbinding stories are the perfect bridge between summer magic and academic focus. Aim to finish all three before syllabi land in your inbox. BUY LINK

❤️ Romance

  • Plan a dreamy date night: picnic under the stars, stargazing with a loved one, or a sunset drive with the perfect playlist.
  • Write a love letter (to yourself or someone special) sealed with wax and a pressed flower.
  • Dance barefoot in the grass or living room with your summer fling to slow, sultry music—no audience required.

🧖‍♀️ Renewal

  • Declutter your space and wardrobe—make room for fresh energy and cozy fall layers.
  • Treat yourself to a DIY spa day: face mask, herbal bath, and your favorite playlist.
  • Meal prep nourishing foods and hydrate like the magical being you are.

Print this list, check it off with colorful pens, and savor every golden moment. Summer’s end isn’t goodbye—it’s a soft transition into a new chapter filled with possibility. You’ve got this. Now go make it memorable. 🌙


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Red, White, and Enchanted: Celebrating America’s 250th Through the Streets of Wethersfield

As fireworks light up the summer sky and we prepare to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, there’s no better time to revisit the historic towns that built this nation. One of those living pieces of American history is Wethersfield, Connecticut—one of the oldest settlements in the state, rich with colonial charm, Revolutionary spirit, and yes… a touch of witchcraft lore. In honor of this milestone Independence Day, I’m thrilled to spotlight Disenchanted, a captivating YA novel steeped in the very soil where early Americans forged their identities, faced their fears, and sometimes paid the ultimate price for being different.

A Forbidden Love. A Dark Curse. An Impossible Choice.

Sixteen-year-old Sophie descends from a powerful line of Wethersfield witches, but keeping her unpredictable magic hidden is becoming nearly impossible. When a dangerous thief tries to tear a mysterious heirloom necklace from her throat, she’s rescued by the one boy she’s forbidden to want: Alexavier Mather, descendant of the man who once sent her ancestor to the gallows. Their connection is as electric as it is cursed. As old family secrets claw their way into the present, Sophie must awaken the dangerous power sleeping within her diamond charm. But unlocking the truth means confronting the blood-stained pasts of both their families—and risking far more than her heart. Because some curses are born of true love… and breaking this one might cost Sophie her soul. 

Blending forbidden romance, simmering family legacies, and supernatural suspense, Disenchanted brings the hidden magic and resilient spirit of early America to life in the historic streets of Wethersfield. It’s the perfect summer read for anyone who loves their history with a spark of the extraordinary—especially during this landmark 250th anniversary year when we celebrate both the light and shadows of our shared past. Whether you’re spending the Fourth exploring Connecticut’s colonial gems or relaxing with a book between barbecues and parades, Disenchanted invites you to fall under its spell! BUY LINK

A Special Dedication

This post is lovingly dedicated to my dear writer friend, Sloane Taylor, who recently passed away. Sloane was a talented author, a passionate cook, and a warm spirit who brought joy to so many through her blog and her recipes. Her love for creating delicious meals that brought people together mirrored the heartfelt connections found in the pages of Disenchanted.

In her honor, I invite you to explore her wonderful holiday cookbook, Recipes to Create Holidays Extraordinaire. Filled with 113 taste-tempting recipes that are perfect for celebrating life’s special moments.

Thank you, Sloane, for the laughter, the inspiration, and the recipes that will continue to warm kitchens and hearts for years to come. You will be deeply missed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leigh Goff is a published YA author. She is a graduate from the University of Maryland and a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). 

Born and raised on the East Coast, she now lives in Florida with her husband, enjoying the sun, sea, and a little puppy dog.

CLICK FOLLOW ON THE HOMEPAGE & JOIN THE ENCHANTED COMMUNITY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE CONTENT, NEWS, AND UPDATES!


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SPF, Sunglasses, and Spells🔮🌴 

Don’t forget to pack some magic in your beach bag this summer!

There is nothing quite like lounging poolside or listening to the crashing waves while completely losing yourself in a world of dark secrets, forbidden romance, and dangerous spells.

Whether you are sunbathing on the sand or hiding out in the refreshing blast of the AC on a rainy afternoon, the ultimate summer escape requires a story that burns hotter than the July sun.

Lucky for you, two spellbinding, witchy YA page-turners just got a fresh relaunch and are officially ready to dominate your summer reading list in both paperback and ebook formats.

First up, toss Disenchanted into your beach bag and prepare for the ultimate summer crush dilemma. Sixteen-year-old Sophie is a powerful witch struggling to hide her chaotic gifts, but her world completely shatters when a dangerous thief attacks her for her heirloom necklace. She is saved by Alexavier Mather—who just happens to be the gorgeous descendant of the man who sent her ancestor to the gallows. Talk about a sunburn-level family feud! Alexavier is hiding a devastating secret, and to survive the summer, Sophie has to awaken the volatile magic sleeping inside her diamond charm and risking far more than just a summer heartbreak.

BUY LINK

Once you finish that novel, dive straight into the deep end with Bewitching Hannah. This gripping story plunges you into a deadly game of dark magic and hidden rivals where one must rise and one must die. As Hannah races against time, her powers awaken with a fierce, hungry edge that changes everything, making it the perfect fast-paced thrill for late-night reading by the glow of a campfire. Packed with jaw-dropping twists, intense power struggles, and high-stakes sorcery, these books are impossible to put down.

Grab your copies today in paperback to feel the pages between your fingers, or download the ebooks instantly to start reading under your beach umbrella right now! 

BUY LINK

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leigh Goff is a published YA author. She is a graduate from the University of Maryland and a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). 

Born and raised on the East Coast, she now lives in Florida with her husband, enjoying the sun, sea, and a little puppy dog.

CLICK FOLLOW ON THE HOMEPAGE & JOIN THE ENCHANTED COMMUNITY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE CONTENT, NEWS, AND UPDATES!

 


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Summer Magic Awaits: Dive into the Enchanted Worlds of Disenchanted & Bewitching Hannah

Summer is the perfect time to escape into stories that spark with danger, desire, and destiny—and these two witchy YA novels are back, better than ever! If you’re craving beach reads that deliver heart-pounding tension, swoony forbidden romance, and dark, addictive magic, Disenchanted and Bewitching Hannah are your next obsessions. 

Perfect for teens and the adults who love reading alongside them, these tales blend thrilling curses, fierce heroines, and that irresistible pull of enemies-to-lovers chemistry that keeps pages turning under the sun (or late into the night).

In Disenchanted, a slow-burning forbidden romance simmers with danger and delicious tension. Packed with witchy lore that bites back, buried family secrets, ancient curses, and impossible choices, this story will leave you breathless. Expect rivals who can’t stay away from each other, magic that feels alive and unpredictable, and stakes high enough to keep your heart racing. It’s the ultimate enemies-to-lovers escape—steamy enough to feel exciting, yet perfectly suited for older teens and summer discussions with your young adult reader.

Meanwhile, Bewitching Hannah plunges you into a deadly game of dark magic and hidden rivals. One must rise. One must die. As Hannah races against time, her powers awaken with a fierce, hungry edge that changes everything. This gripping tale is full of twists, power struggles, and the kind of high-stakes sorcery that makes it impossible to put down. Ideal for fans who love strong heroines coming into their own amid shadows and secrets. 

These fresh relaunches are your sign to grab your sunscreen, your favorite spot by the water, and books that deliver fun, swoony, and spellbinding summer vibes. Whether you’re a teen diving into magic for the first time or a mom curating unforgettable reads for your family, these stories promise adventure, romance, and wonder that lingers long after the last page. (Ready to enchant your summer? Buy links for paperback and ebook versions coming right up!)

Buy Link: DISENCHANTED

Buy Link: BEWITCHING HANNAH


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Moonlit Manifestations: Make 2026 Your Best Year Ever

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, imagine channeling your inner witch from those captivating YA novels like Disenchanted and Bewitching Hannah. Think brewing potions of confidence and casting spells of self-love under a full moon.

This year, empowerment isn’t about rigid resolutions, it’s about infusing magic into your glow-up journey. Picture yourself as the protagonist in your own story, wielding crystals and affirmations like wands to banish doubts and summon abundance. By embracing these whimsical, witchy practices, you’ll not only level up your vibe but transform 2026 into your most enchanted chapter yet, filled with growth, joy, and unapologetic power.

Start with ritualistic intention-setting, a staple in any teen witch’s grimoire. Grab a journal (your modern spellbook) and, by candlelight, jot down your dreams as if scripting a powerful incantation. Add a twist by incorporating herbs like lavender for calm or rosemary for clarity, sprinkling them over your pages or brewing them into a tea to drink while you write. This isn’t just goal-setting, it’s manifesting with flair.

For a fun glow-up boost, create a “glamour spell” by mixing natural ingredients into DIY face masks or body scrubs, visualizing your skin and spirit radiating from within. These small, magical acts build momentum, turning everyday routines into empowering adventures that make you feel unstoppable.

Dive deeper into self-empowerment with crystals, those shimmering allies from YA lore like Sophie’s powerful, red diamond bloodcharm in Disenchanted. Carry amethyst for intuition or rose quartz for heart-healing in a pouch, treating them like talismans against negativity.

To glow-up physically, enchant your workouts by imagining them as potion-mixing sessions. Yoga flows become fluid spells for flexibility and runs turn into quests for endurance. This playful approach shifts exercise from chore to charm, fostering a body-positive mindset that celebrates your unique magic.

Finally, seal your empowered year with communal magic, even if it’s just you and your reflections. Share your “witchy wins” on a vision board adorned with moon phases and tarot-inspired art, tracking progress like chapters in your novel. Remember, true power comes from within, so forgive slip-ups as plot twists that build character. By weaving these fun, teen-witch-inspired practices into your life, you’ll not only glow up but craft a narrative where you’re the hero—confident, resilient, and ready to conquer whatever enchantments 2026 brings. Here’s to your best year yet, spellbound and sparkling!

If you’re looking for the perfect New Year’s read with a kiss of romance, check out Disenchanted! (You can see Sophie wearing her diamond bloodcharm necklace on the cover!)

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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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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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.

Buy Link

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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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The Magic of the YA Love Triangle

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!

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 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.
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Magical Gifts That Cast a Spell✨

by Leigh Goff

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?
 
 
Enchanting Gift Ideas
 
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

 

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.