Leigh Goff

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Novel Settings

By C.D. Hersh

One of the most asked questions to authors is, “Why did you set your book there?” For us it started with a car commercial. In the commercial, a grandmother is telling her granddaughter that she met grandpa under a tree. Then the two hug the tree and in a subsequent scene are joined by the child’s parents. As they leave the area, the car passes a sign marked Woodstock.

Honestly, we don’t even remember the make of the car that was being advertised, but we did remember the tree hugging scenario and the Woodstock sign. When Donald proposed the setting of Woodstock to me (Catherine) I was like, What???? It wasn’t a place I expected him to go. But the more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea. After all, who doesn’t like a walk down memory lane? I was into folk music in the Sixties. I sang and played Peter Paul and Mary songs on my guitar so many times I could have done it in my sleep, and I liked rock ‘n’ roll. And maxi coats and the cool threads. Since we’re both musicians, it was a short leap to making our hero and heroine musicians, too.

Because Rose, our heroine, is a music teacher, who plays several instruments, we decided to give her a love of all music, including classical. To broaden her horizons, we introduced classical music rebels into her music lexicon.

In one of the scenes, she is wandering around the festival grounds when she happens on another female hippie playing her flute and twirling to the melody. Rose decides to join in and plays a counter melody on her flute. Then the hippie begins playing “Bach’s Minuet in G”, to which Rose creates a counter melody.

We were so intrigued with the idea of two flutes playing Bach’s Minuet in G that we decided to compose the counter melody Rose played. If you click on the audio link, you can hear what we heard in our minds when we created this scene.

Now that you’ve heard the music in our heads, we hope you’ll enjoy an excerpt from our story.

The Soul Mate Tree . . . An ancient legend spanning eras, continents, and worlds. To some, it’s nothing more than a dream. To others, a pretty fairy tale handed down through the generations. For those in critical need of their own happy ending, a gift.

Our book, Can’t Stop the Music, is a blast back to the Sixties and Woodstock. For college senior and hippie wannabe Rosemary—Rose for short—a teaching job is within her grasp, but she wants more. She wants love, the kind of love that has bound her parents for so many years. When she’s dumped by her current boyfriend because her morals can’t bring her to give in to free love, she finds herself at Woodstock in the middle of the biggest free-love, music festival of the Sixties. Alone, again. Until a magical tree grants her wish and she finds the man of her dreams—and loses him before she really knows who he is.

Dakota meets the girl of his dreams at Woodstock, but a jealous wannabe girlfriend drives them apart before he can discover Rose’s last name and where she comes from. After he sees a disappearing tree that promises him true love, a frantic search to find Rose comes up empty-handed.

Magic and music brings them together at Woodstock in 1969. Misunderstandings tear them apart. Will two flower children find one another again, or live with missed opportunities? 

Short Excerpt:

As they made their way to the festival site, Rose and her friends grooved to the music coming from the stage. 

When they reached the makeshift bridge over the road, someone yelled, “Hey beautiful! You with the red hair.” 

She looked around to see if there was anyone else with red hair. Then she glanced up and spotted two guys, one blond and the other dark-haired, leaning over the side of the bridge. 

“Yeah, you,” the blond called out as he caught her gaze. 

Willow halted beside her. “He’s cute. How about him?” 

Rose looked away, her gaze landing on the other guy. 

He jabbed his companion in the ribs. “Quit trying to pick up every girl you see.” Then he leaned farther over the rail. “Don’t pay any attention to him. He’s high.” 

“So, she’s not beautiful?” Willow yelled to the hippie. 

She poked her friend. “Stop it, Willow, you’re making a scene.” In spite of her protest, her gaze remained on the dark-haired guy. 

He rested his elbows on the rail and stared back at her. The intensity of his expression shot heat into her belly. 

“I didn’t say that, just that she shouldn’t pay attention to him.” He flapped a hand at his blond buddy, then tapped his own chest with his thumb several times as if to say, ‘Choose me!’ 

Does he want me to pay attention to him? Her heart thumped in rhythm to his jabbing thumb. 

“Take that one,” Willow whispered. “He’s the real cutie.” 

Before she could respond, the crowd pushed them forward. When they reached the other side of the bridge, she looked back, searching for the dark-haired hippie, but the spot where he’d stood was empty. 

Just my luck. I see someone who’s intriguing and he disappears.

With a sigh, she continued the trek to the festival grounds.

Putting words and stories on paper is second nature to 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, and that’s why they write romance.

In addition to writing Catherine and Donald love antiquing, traveling, singing, and going to the theatre. Catherine is also an avid gardener and has drawn Donald into her garden as a day laborer. They figure the couple who plays together and works together, stays together—and that’s just what they aim to do.

Second Editions Coming Soon:

Ghosts and Gardenias

The Promised One The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 1
Blood Brothers The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 2
Son of the Moonless Night The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 3
The Mercenary and the Shifters The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 4

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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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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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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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Harley-Davidson and Writing

From Sharon Ledwith

Brand building. It’s the backbone of any company or person. It’s how consumers identify with you. Know you. Want you. Need you. What does this have to do with Harley-Davidson? Plenty.

Recently, hubby and I watched a three-part movie about how the Harley-Davidson company was born on the Discovery channel. Boy did I learn a lot about running a business and branding just by watching that movie! The story focused on three partners: William (Bill) Harley (the engineer/creator), Arthur Davidson(the salesman/marketer), and Walter Davidson (the risk-taker, promoter). Together, these entrepreneurs gave the world of motorcycling an experience that felt like ‘an explosion between your legs’. Bill Harley’s words, not mine! LOL!

Here are six things I learned from Harley-Davidson…

 

Create buzz.
To build excitement and promote their product (think about this in terms of your book/books) Harley-Davidson sponsored a racing team named ‘The Wrecking Crew’ whose seat-in-their-pants racing style got the press the company needed to get
on the map and stimulate sales. Okay, writers don’t need a Wrecking Crew. But what about a Street Team, or a legion of super fans waiting in the wings for your next book? Use your website, blog or email list to create the buzz your book(s) need to get them flying off the shelves.

Harley Bike

Find your tribe.
Arthur Davidson worked hard to generate sales. He started bike clubs, opened free beer tents at events to loyal customers, and had special offers/incentives to returning buyers. He was a trail-blazer of social media one hundred years before social media was even born. He engaged first, then sold. That’s what writers should be doing on social media—connect and engage with their target market first. If they trust you enough, they’ll ask about your book.

Look outside of the box.
Always looking for ways to market his motorcycles, Arthur Davidson approached the U.S. Postal Service and convinced them to trade their bicycles for Harley-Davidsons. He followed through with the Fire and Police Departments and eventually won them over. When the three partners met with the military during WW1, Arthur suggested that they send mechanics (for FREE) to teach the soldiers how to fix
their motorbikes in case they broke down while they were overseas. This strategy worked, and they shared the contract 50/50 with Indian Motorcycle, the number one motorcycle company at the time. BTW—Indian went bankrupt in 1953. Writers need
to look outside the box too. There’s plenty of opportunity around, even if you have to offer your first book (or a short story) for free.

Focus on those little extras.

harleyhatWalter Davidson recognized the allure of the motorcycle look and culture, so he launched a campaign to sell Harley-Davidson accessories and clothing which remains a major part of the company’s success to this day. Writers can open a ‘store page’ on their website (you have a website, right?) and sell items that are connected to their books, like T-shirts, coffee mugs or water bottles imprinted with their book cover, or even jewelry.

Re-brand or face-lift when the unexpected happens.

The stock market crash of 1929 hit Harley-Davidson hard. There was no disposable income, and barely any sales. Bill
Harley decided to give his motorcycles a much needed face-lift during the Depression. He redesigned their block-letter logo, and added a stylized eagle. The company also started offering their motorbikes in an array of different color schemes too. So when book sales are down, this gives writers an opportunity to redesign their book covers, or pull books off the virtual shelves and re-edit them. After all, Harley-Davidson built their company on a quality product, so shouldn’t you?

Continue to develop.
By the late 1930s, Bill Harley developed a new model that ended up being a breakthrough for the company. Sales soared with this bigger, badder, and more powerful machine. By the time WW2 began, Harley-Davidson had gained the respect of the military, and were asked to ship over 90,000 military-style motorbikes overseas to be used by the Allies. When the war ended, people returned to motorcycle riding with a deep respect and trust for the Harley-Davidson brand. So, while you may have one or more books out there for sale, it’s best to work on the next one, and continue to develop your brand and author platform. You never know. Your next book may be your ‘breakthrough’ book!

Is there a company out there that you’ve learned some tricks and techniques from to help build your writing career? How are you building your brand? Please leave a comment and share what you’ve learned. Cheers for reading my blog, I truly appreciate it!

Here’s a glimpse into one of the books from Mysterious Tales from Fairy Falls, my teen psychic mystery series.

The only witness left to testify against an unsolved crime in Fairy Falls isn’t a person…

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City born and bred, Hart Stewart possesses the gift of psychometry—the psychic ability to discover facts about an event or person by touching inanimate objects associated with them. Since his mother’s death, seventeen-year-old Hart has endured homelessness, and has learned ways to keep his illiteracy under wraps. He eventually learns of a great-aunt living in Fairy Falls and decides to leave the only life he’s ever known for an uncertain future.

Diana MacGregor lives in Fairy Falls. Her mother was a victim of a senseless murder. Only Diana’s unanswered questions and her grief keeps her going, until Hart finds her mother’s lost ring and becomes a witness to her murder.

Through Hart’s psychic power, Diana gains hope for justice. Their investigation leads them into the corrupt world threatening Fairy Falls. To secure the town’s future, Hart and Diana must join forces to uncover the shocking truth, or they risk losing the true essence of Fairy Falls forever.

AMAZON BUY LINK

Sharon Ledwith Author Shot

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, one spoiled yellow Labrador and a moody calico cat.

Learn more about Sharon Ledwith on her website and blog. Stay connected on Facebookand Twitter, Google+, Goodreads, and Smashwords. Look up her Amazon Author pagefor a list of current books. Be sure to check out THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS TIME TRAVEL SERIES Facebook page.


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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 am now studying for my level 2 certification (yes, the homework rocks). How wine tasting appeals to me was similar to how I feel about writing. After some research, I discovered there was 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 read the story about a wine of their choice 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 wine or dive into a captivating 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 is an author from the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area. She is
represented by Lauren Bittrich at Lucinda Literary. She has three published novels, DISENCHANTED (2015), BEWITCHING HANNAH (2017), and KOUSH HOLLOW (2020). She is also a member of SCBWI and a graduate from the University of Maryland.

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


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Unleash the Magic of Self-Care

woman in white sleeveless shirt lying on wooden surface with fairy lights

Photo by stayhereforu on Pexels.com

People, we need a break from the keyboard and our phones! It’s time to unleash the magic of self-care and I’m sharing some ideas on how to recharge and nurture our spirits.

Engage in regular exercise to boost energy levels and clear the mind. Yoga, pickle ball, or dancing to your favorite tunes can do the trick.

Fresh air can do wonders for the soul! I like to take breaks throughout the day and walk my golden retriever. I get to enjoy being in nature and my dog’s company, win-win!

Practice mindfulness and meditation to find balance amidst the chaos of everyday life. Mute the phone, step away from the laptop, and take a few moments each day to simply breathe and be present. Enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning and think about what brings you peace or joy.

Connect with friends or peers, even if it’s online. Share experiences, seek support, and celebrateUnknown each other’s successes. I have a wonderful group of writers I connect with called Authors Moving Forward. We bounce ideas and situations off one another and their feedback has proven essential.

Treat yourself to a cozy reading session with a favorite book or explore new genres for fresh perspectives. I’m currently reading Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus and I’m really enjoying it. If you need book suggestions, let me know.

Prioritize restful sleep. Your mind thrives when it’s well-rested, so make sure to give yourself enough downtime for quality sleep. Find a linen spray like this one in a relaxing scent and spritz that on your bedding before bedtime. It will help you drift into a peaceful sleep.

Remember, self-care is essential to nourish our creativity and overall well-being. Take care of yourself, and you will flourish!

LeighGoff-150RETLeigh Goff is an author from the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area. She is represented by Lauren Bittrich at Lucinda Literary. She has three published novels, DISENCHANTED (2015), BEWITCHING HANNAH (2017), and KOUSH HOLLOW (2020). She is also a member of SCBWI and a graduate from the University of Maryland.

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


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The Power of Writing

eyeglasses on book beside pink rose on cup

Photo by Ylanite Koppens 

Writing is a captivating art form that transcends time and connects people across the globe. It allows us to express ourselves, share ideas and stories that leave a lasting impact on the world. Whether you’re a seasoned author or someone who scribbles thoughts in a personal journal, the act of writing holds immense power.

First, writing provides a gateway to self-expression. It allows us to dive into the depths of our thoughts, emotions, and experiences, giving them a tangible form. Through writing, we can explore our inner landscapes, unravel complex emotions, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves. It’s a therapeutic process that brings clarity, healing, and personal growth.

Second, writing is a means to share knowledge and ideas. From books that transport us to different worlds to persuasive essays that shape our opinions, the written word has the ability to inform, inspire, and influence. Writers have the remarkable ability to create narratives that captivate readers, instilling empathy and expanding horizons. By putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), you become part of a long tradition of thinkers and storytellers who have shaped history and challenged societal norms.

Writing serves as a bridge between individuals, cultures, and generations. From heartfelt letters to long-distance friends, to blog posts that resonate with strangers, writing enables us to form connections beyond physical boundaries. It allows us to share our experiences, perspectives, and aspirations, fostering empathy and understanding.

In the digital age, the power of writing has grown thanks to social media, blogging platforms, and online forums. Today, anyone can be a writer and have a global audience. However, amidst this vast landscape, it’s important to remember the value of thoughtfully crafted content. Quality writing, be it a thrilling novel or a beautifully written poem, has the ability to cut through noise and leave a lasting emotional impact.

So, embrace the power of writing. Use it to express yourself, educate others, and build connections. Whether you aspire to be a novelist, a journalist, or simply want to jot down your thoughts, every word you write has the potential to shape minds, touch hearts, and make a difference.

Keep writing, and let your voice be heard!