Leigh Goff

Author

Tag Archives: YA


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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.

👉 Buy Sloane Taylor’s *Recipes to Create Holidays Extraordinaire* on Amazon

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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Pack Your Bags (No Passport Needed!)✈️✨

3 Epic Magical Destinations Waiting for YOU in Books📚

Wethersfield, Connecticut – Curses, Ancient Bloodlines & Hidden Power 🏠✨First stop, a historic New England town where the past doesn’t just haunt you—it tries to control you. In Disenchanted, 16-year-old Sophie is dealing with wild, unpredictable gifts and a mysterious heirloom necklace that pulses with dangerous magic. One wrong move and centuries-old curses could destroy everything. Picture cobblestone streets hiding family secrets, haunted graveyards whispering forgotten spells, and a girl fighting to break free from her bloodline’s grip. If you love stories where history collides with explosive magic, small-town drama, and a protagonist figuring out who she really is… this is your portal. Warning: you might never want to leave.

Ready to ditch reality and dive headfirst into worlds packed with curses, secrets, and seriously powerful magic? Books are your ultimate escape ticket—zero suitcases, zero airport drama, and 100% pure adventure. If you’re craving small-town mysteries, coastal thrills, or bayou supernatural vibes, these three reads will teleport you straight into the action. Let’s go!

Annapolis, Maryland – Waterfront Magic, Rivalries & Destiny ⛵🌊⚡Next up, sail into the moody, breathtaking waterfront of Annapolis in Bewitching Hannah. Here, 16-year-old Hannah gets pulled into an ancient prophecy that could change everything. Hidden rivals, magic waking up inside her, and a high-stakes game where one wrong choice could cost her everything. Imagine kissing a star-crossed love under stormy skies, coven meetings in the shadow of the historic statehouse, and a girl discovering she’s way more powerful than she ever imagined. Fast-paced tension, beautiful maritime vibes, and that delicious “who can I even trust?” energy—this book is pure adrenaline for anyone who loves prophecies, rivalries, and swoony romance.

Koush Hollow, Louisiana – Bayou Secrets, Dark Waters & Rebel Energy 🐊🌿🔮 Last (but definitely not least), plunge into the misty, mystical bayou near New Orleans in Koush Hollow. When 16-year-old Jenna returns, she walks straight into exclusive social circles, environmental mysteries, and waters hiding way more than alligators. Beneath the Spanish moss and humid nights lies a battle for truth, power, and doing what’s right in a town built on secrets. There’s a forbidden romance, too. If you’re into rich, atmospheric worlds, strong heroines who refuse to back down, and stories where magic and real-world stakes collide—this one will pull you under (in the best way).

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a blanket, some snacks, and your next favorite escape. These books don’t just tell stories—they transport you. No passport. No limits. Just pure magic. Which destination are you packing for first? Drop your pick below—I need to know! 📖🌍

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A Glam Summer Reading Pick: Bewitching Hannah 

If you’re hunting for the perfect summer read that’s equal parts addictive, romantic, and dangerously magical, look no further than Bewitching Hannah.

One must rise. One must die. 

Sixteen-year-old Hannah Fitzgerald has spent her entire life suppressing the dark, restless power humming in her veins. But when an ancient prophecy awakens, foretelling the rise of a deadly young witch and the brutal death of another, her hidden magic begins to stir — and it’s hungry. Suddenly thrust into a lethal game of dark magic, hidden rivals, and shifting alliances, Hannah must confront secrets that could destroy everything she loves. 

Enter W, the mysterious, breathtaking stranger bound to her fate. With eyes like midnight and a past even darker than her own, he might be her salvation… or her downfall. In a world where trust can be fatal, Hannah quickly learns that no one is who they seem, not even the boy she’s falling for.

Glamorous, tense, and spellbinding, Bewitching Hannah delivers everything you want in a summer YA fantasy: slow-burn romance, high-stakes magic, fierce friendships, and a protagonist who’s both powerful and deeply relatable. 

Perfect for:

  • Teens who love strong heroines, dark romance, and witchy vibes
  • Moms who enjoy reading the same books as their daughters (hello, epic mother-daughter discussions!)
  • Fans of Serpent & Dove, The Cruel Prince, and These Violent Delights

Whether you’re poolside, beach-bound, or curled up with iced coffee on the porch, this newly relaunched edition is the glamorous escape you’ve been waiting for.

One prophecy. Two fates. No second chances. 

Bewitching Hannah is out now on Amazon — grab your copy today and let the magic pull you under. Have you started reading yet? Drop your favorite witchy or dark fantasy read in the comments — I’d love to hear what you’re obsessed with this summer! Happy reading.

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.

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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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Some Curses Are Born of True Love…

What if the boy who saves your life is the one person destined to destroy you?

Something wicked is coming soon… and if you love witchy YA fantasy with forbidden romance, dark family secrets, and impossible choices, you’re going to want to hear this. 

Sixteen-year-old Sophie comes from a long line of powerful witches, but she’s barely keeping her unpredictable gifts hidden. 

That’s the least of her problems. 

When a dangerous thief tries to rip her mysterious heirloom necklace from her throat, she’s saved by the last person she’s allowed to want—Alexavier Mather, a descendant of the man who sent her ancestor to the gallows. He carries a devastating secret that could destroy them both. 

To survive, Sophie must awaken the dangerous power sleeping inside her diamond charm. But unlocking it means digging into the wicked, blood-stained pasts of both their families… and risking far more than her heart. 

Because some curses are born of true love.

And the only way to break this one might cost Sophie her soul. 

If you love:

  • Slow-burn, forbidden romance with serious tension 
  • Ancient curses and witchy lore with teeth 
  • Deep family secrets and high-stakes choices

…then keep your eyes on this space. Big news about Disenchanted is headed your way soon.

 In the meantime, I’d love to know: Would you risk everything, including your soul, for a love you’re forbidden to have? 

Drop your answer in the comments. 


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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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Spark Your Ultimate Glow-Up

 

In my young adult fantasy novel, Disenchanted, Sophie embarks on a thrilling quest to master her unpredictable magic, break a deadly curse, and save her star-crossed true love. This isn’t just a story—it’s a roadmap to discovering your own inner beauty and strength, and maybe finding a love worth fighting for along the way. 

Here are a few glow-up tips inspired by Disenchanted to help you unlock a bolder, more radiant version of yourself. 

First, embrace your unique spark. Sophie learns that her magic, though wild and imperfect, is what makes her powerful. Similarly, your quirks and flaws are part of your inner beauty. Reflect on what makes you unique—perhaps it’s your creativity, empathy, or resilience. Write down three traits you love about yourself and celebrate them daily. Reading Disenchanted will remind you that your individuality is your greatest asset, encouraging you to embrace it fully and let it guide you toward a more confident you. 

Second, face your fears with courage. For Sophie, breaking a true love curse requires bravery. She faces daunting challenges and enemies to save her star-crossed love. To glow up, confront one fear holding you back—whether it’s speaking up for yourself, trying something new, or letting go of self-doubt. Start small and take one bold action this week, like joining a new group or sharing an idea out loud. As you follow the heroine’s journey in the book, you’ll see how courage transforms her, inspiring you to tackle obstacles and become a stronger version of yourself. 

Third, open your heart to love. The magic of star-crossed love in Disenchanted isn’t just romantic—it reminds one that love is worth the effort. To glow up, practice self-love and openness to meaningful connections. Try a daily affirmation like, “I am worthy of love and joy,” and take small steps to connect with others, like complimenting a friend or expressing gratitude. The book’s romantic arc will show you how love, both for yourself and others, can spark transformation, helping you radiate warmth and authenticity. 

Fourth, keep growing through challenges. Sophie’s journey to master her magic is filled with setbacks, yet each one helps her grow. Embrace your own challenges as opportunities to evolve. Set a personal goal—like learning a new skill or improving your health—and track your progress weekly. As you read Disenchanted, you’ll see how Sophie’s perseverance mirrors your own potential to turn obstacles into stepping stones, leading to a more resilient and empowered you. Grab your copy and let this story fuel your glow-up journey!

 

BUY LINKS: Amazon | BN.com | Mirror World

 

 disenchanted-2 copyDISENCHANTED

From Mirror World Publishing

Young Adult Fiction/Fantasy

A forbidden love. A dark curse. An impossible choice…

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.

From Amazon reviews…
“This book has everything that draws me into a good YA book and a little more.”
“The herbalist magic and edgy spells casted and crafted by the young heroine are wonderfully creative and imaginative.”
“I fell in love with the story and characters right away.” 

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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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Sizzle into Your Best Summer Ever!

Hey, dreamers and heart-chasers! Summer is approaching fast, glowing with golden sunsets, warm nights, and that electric buzz of new connections. As a young adult author, I’m all about weaving romance into epic adventures, and this summer is your chance to shine and attract that swoony spark. Here’s a quick, self-help guide to look your best, feel confident, and make this your most romantic summer ever!

Summer’s vibe is your glow-up muse. Jot down a swoony, fantastical idea in a notebook—maybe falling for someone special under a meteor shower or a love story born at a beach festival. Then, refresh your style to match your inner hero. Try wearing a bold new accessory like stackable bracelets or getting a new summery hairdo that brings out your inner beach god/goddess.

Stuck in a rut like a hero waiting for their meet-cute? Summer is your escape. Take a sunset walk and imagine it’s the scene of a love confession, or dive into a fantasy romance that feels like a summer breeze (my star-crossed saga Disenchanted might be your vibe). Add a self-care ritual—think a hydrating skincare routine or daily stretches—to radiate health and confidence. A glowing you attracts glowing connections.

In my books like Disenchanted, love sparks when characters embrace their true selves. You’re the star of your summer romance, so own your unique charm. Battling nerves? Find and repeat a daily mantra like, “My heart is my story, and I shine from within.” Dress in colors that make you feel bold—sunny yellows or fiery reds—to catch that special someone’s eye. Confidence is your ultimate glow-up and draws romance like moths to a flame. 

If you’re looking for the perfect summer read with a kiss of romance, check out Disenchanted!

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

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.