On Tour: Mesmerize

 

About the Book

Book: Mesmerize

Author: Darlene Corbett

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: February 18, 2026

Set against the backdrop of Las Vegas, Boston, and Dubai, a dazzling romance comes to life.

Can a storyteller win back the love of her life through tales sprinkled with faith and love.

Boston-based Delphina Tulasi, a therapeutic storyteller, has shunned men.

A year after a major betrayal, she accompanies her mother Lucia, a matchmaker, to Las Vegas to help her run an exclusive speed-dating event.

Alexander O’Hara, a CFO with secrets of his own, accepts Lucia’s invitation to attend. He meets Delphina and becomes mesmerized. They go out on a date in Las Vegas and return to Boston, where their love blossoms.

All goes well until Alex goes on a long business trip to Dubai. A visit from someone in her past confuses Delphina and lures her back to a previous relationship, prompting her to break up with Alex.

After a few dates with her ex, Delphina recognizes the mistake she’s made and becomes determined to win Alex back. She uses her creativity, spins stories based on truth, and sends them in videos across the internet.

Will it work?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Darlene Corbett has been serving others as a licensed psychotherapist for over thirty years.

With her wealth of experience in human behavior, she decided to write down her thoughts to inspire a larger audience. This set the stage for her book, Stop Depriving The World of You, published by Sound Wisdom in 2018.

She continued writing nonfiction until she heard God whisper again. And his call prompted her to take a risk and dip her toes into fiction. Visible, a women’s fiction about second chances, was published by WordCrafts Press in the spring of 2024, and in August, she won the 2024 Storytrade Book Awards for Christian Fiction in the Contemporary category.

And right now?

Her contemporary romance, Mesmerize, will be published in February of 2026 which has themes of a modern-day, Christian Scheherazade story.

Her writing continues with two romantic suspense novels. Enthralled, which takes place in Mykenos, has been completed but needs editing. A Midnight Call, located in a small fictional town in central Massachusetts, has almost reached the finishing line.

When not writing or seeing clients, Darlene immerses herself in a variety of novels and tries to support other authors of faith.

In addition, she loves animals with dogs being number one. Taking care of her beloved Shih Tzu, Stevie, puts a smile on her face.

Being a life-long learner, she’s attempting a second language and remains a nerd at heart. Staying fit, traveling, and connecting with her inner circle also take priority.

Darlene belongs to many organizations, including the ACFW, FHL-CW, and WFWA.

She lives in Central Massachusetts with Stevie, and remains excited about the next chapter of her life.

More from Darlene

For all my life, I’ve been in love with the oral and written word.

And I imagine the same for you.

How many people do not enjoy reading or hearing a good tale?

And doesn’t it make sense?

Each of us has a story, our own book of life. How it unfold lays between God and us.

Although every novel involves a story, I decided to highlight a therapeutic storyteller.

Why therapeutic?

Because I’m a therapist and have listened to stories throughout my life. Also, I remember the story of Scheherazade, and with faith and modernity, I wove it into my novel. The protagonist spins tales to… Well, you’ll have to read the book to find out.

I hope you become mesmerized by Mesmerize.

An interview with Darlene

What is your favorite thing about being a writer? Listening to God inspire me. My creativity flows from him, for which I’m most grateful.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books? The difference between nonfiction and fiction. I had been writing inspirational nonfiction for years, including a personal development book. Little did I know how much the craft of storytelling took on a whole different form. Although difficult, as it should be, exhilarating.

What was the best money you spent as a writer? Attending conferences, live and virtual, to improve my writing. And participating in contests.

How do you come up with story lines/book topic? I hear or read something, and a seed is sowed. For example, I heard that Harlequin ran a contest for a billionaire story. I can’t recall, but they offered a few proposals about how it should unfold. The seeds in my mind began took root. Although not a fit for Harlequin, my novel, Enthralled flowered, and I’m now in the process of editing.

What is one thing you wish you could do? Have more time, but God had me served in another capacity, which I respect. I’m an older adult, so I will do what I can until God takes me home.

Blog Stops

Cover Lover Book Review, May 30

Simple Harvest Reads, May 31 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, June 1 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 1

Guild Master, June 2 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 3

Fiction Book Lover, June 4 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, June 5 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, June 6 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, June 7

For the Love of Literature, June 8 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, June 9 (Author Interview)

Pause for Tales, June 9

Blossoms and Blessings, June 10 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, June 11

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, June 12 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Darlene is giving away the grand prize of a $75 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/Ap5Fn/mesmerize-celebration-tour-giveaway

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Heather Tabers!

Talkshow Thursday: 

Welcome Heather Tabers!

I'm pleased to introduce you to Heather Tabers who I "met" on Facebook when her post came through my feed. A busy lady, she writes historical romance and children's fiction in addition to designing jewelry, working as a virtual assistant, and creating digital products. Grab a 'cuppa' and get to know her.

When did you know you wanted to be an author? I’ve always loved writing and blogging, but in 2020, I couldn’t stop thinking about a story idea that was inspired by a lighthouse I visited with my husband. I’d never written long-form fiction before but decided to give it a try. After that, the ideas kept flowing, and in 2025, I felt God calling me to become a full-time independent author.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books? I was so surprised to learn how characters take on personalities of their own as you write their stories. You think you understand your characters’ motives and emotions and desires because you created them, and then out of nowhere they say or do something, or they tell you a piece of their backstory you didn’t know, and suddenly the story is better than you could have hoped or imagined.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that strikes you about their work? Ugh. That’s an impossible question to answer. I have many favorites and have gleaned so much from each of them. I was reading books by Heidi Chiavaroli when I visited that lighthouse and got inspired to write. As I was reading her books, I kept thinking to myself, “I want to write like this.” Then there’s Crystal Caudill. I keep her book, Counterfeit Love, on my desk when I write. When I get stuck or feel like my writing is lacking, I read a few pages to remind myself what good writing looks like.

I’m also extremely fond of Heather Kaufman’s lyrical writing, Sarah Sundin and Elizabeth Camden’s well-researched historical romance, and Charles Martin’s powerful storytelling.

Can you share a real life event that inspired your writing? Yes! In May of 2020, my husband and I

wanted to celebrate our tenth anniversary, but the world was shut down. We live in Florida, so we decided to stay a few days at a hotel on the beach. One day, it was raining, and we didn’t want to stay locked up in our room, so we started looking for anything local that was open. That’s when we found the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Museum. As I read the stories of the light keepers and their families, I kept thinking, “What if…?” I shared my ideas with my husband, and he encouraged me to write it down. The story changed drastically from my initial idea, but that original “What if?” question is still an important part of that story. That book has been written but I haven’t published it yet.

Tell us about your road to publication. I had been working with one of the best agents in the Christian literary world for almost two years when I felt God calling me to go indie. That was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made. But a few months later, I held my independently published book in my hands, and I knew that I’d made the right choice. It was a Christian living book that many would find controversial, and if I had stayed with the agency, no publisher would have published it, as I am predominantly a Christian fiction author. However, dozens of hurting parents have been blessed by that book and have found hope, healing, and encouragement within its pages. That gave me the motivation to keep going.

What was your inspiration for the story? I’m currently writing the second book of my Words & War series which takes place in and around Camp Sheridan, Alabama, in 1918 during WWI. I felt like everyone was writing books about WWII, so I decided to explore WWI, instead. In my research for In Books & Battlefields, I learned that the American Library Association sent volunteer librarians to serve at Army camps across the US and overseas. Once again, my mind started asking, “What if…?” and an entire series was born.

My work-in-progress, In Fairy Tales & Fraud, stemmed from two characters featured in Book One and the research I did about the early days of aviation. My youngest son is a pilot, so including aviation in my plot was especially fun.

What is your process for writing? (do you outline, have a special place or time of day you write, etc.) What is your favorite part of the process? I’m an insane plotter. I tease that my outlines have outlines, but it’s actually true. I have a binder for each book I write, and creating that binder brings me more joy than I can express. I created my own novel workbook that I sell now on Etsy to help me (and other authors) stay organized. It includes everything from character interview questions, calendars for the years the book covers, character images, common slang used during that time period, character arcs, romance arcs, faith arcs, clothing details, location details, and then my story plots and chapter plots. The plotting process is, by far, my favorite part of the entire writing process.

What are common traps for aspiring writers? I’ve only been at this for 6 years, so I’m still working through some of the traps. I’d say the biggest trap is comparison, and that’s the one I struggle with the most. I’m never going to be Sarah Sundin or Elizabeth Camden or Roseanna White. God already made one of each of them. He thought the world needed a Heather Tabers, so I need to be Heather Tabers and stop trying to be someone else. I’ve published five books, and Roseanna has just submitted her 55th book. Comparing myself to her is ridiculous, and yet I do it. As writers, we miss out on what God has for us when we’re focused on what He has for others.

What is your next project? When I finish In Fairy Tales & Fraud, I’ll start In Letters & Landmines and then the surprise I have after that. I’m currently working on finishing up Framing Big Ben in my children’s series. I also have a Christmas rom-com in the works.

While all that is happening, I’m also rolling out a serialized fiction version of my grandparents’ real-life WWII love story. It’s available, one chapter at a time, through my newsletter under a subscription through Substack. Two to three times a month, subscribers receive the next chapter of In the Shadows of Sacrifice, a narrated character art video, and other immersive extras, including the stories behind the scenes, coloring sheets, recipes, playlists, and more.

About In Books & Battlefields

In 1917, spirited librarian Isabella Pearson leaves her comfortable life in Denver to serve at Camp Sheridan, Alabama, determined to bring hope to weary soldiers—not fall in love. But her plans for independence are tested when she finds herself pursued by Major Byron McDaniel, a brooding Army surgeon haunted by loss, and Nathaniel Steele, her brother’s loyal best friend who followed her across the country with hopes of winning her heart. As mysterious accidents and whispers of sabotage plague the camp, Isabella must decide who to trust—with her heart and with her life.

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/4voZcqI

 

 
Connect with Heather:
Website: https://heathertabers.com/

Newsletter/Website: https://heathertabers.substack.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.tabers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsheathertabers/

Photo credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy Heather Tabers

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse: Pixabay/heatherlynnhaas0

Inspection at Camp Sheridan: Courtesy Alabama Department of Archives and History

Movie Monday: Cluny Brown

 

Movie Monday: Cluny Brown

“A free-spirited parlor maid and a Czech refugee surprise

an English village with their unconventional ways.”

~IMDb~

German American director Ernst Lubitsch was known and well-respected in Hollywood for his “comedy of manners” films – satirical comedies that question and comment upon the manners and social customs of a sophisticated, artificial society (Wikipedia) much like Jane Austen did with her novels. Cluny Brown is Lubitsch’s final film, and it’s a classic screwball comedy. Two sources referred to it as effervescent, a great description.

The movie features Jennifer Jones, a prolific actress who has been largely forgotten, as Cluny Brown, and Charles Boyer as Adam Belinski, a political refugee. Cluny’s uncle is not happy with her unladylike behaviors and arranges for her to work as a parlor maid in the country house of Sir Henry Carmel. It’s not long before she is attracted to Belinski, but she difficulties abound because

she is already seeing someone – a “stuffy chemist.” All sorts of shenanigans occur, including a scene during which Cluny fixes the plumbing at her boyfriend’s house, horrifying his mother, a social diva. More confusion and chaos before she gets her happily ever after with Adam.

Cluny Brown is based on the novel by English novelist Margery Sharp who also wrote The Rescuers.
An author of more than two dozen adult novels, fourteen children’s books, four plays, two mysteries, and many short stories, Margery got her start with pieces in Punch, Good Housekeeping, Harper’s Bazaar and Ladies’ Home Journal. Cluny Brown was written in 1944 while she was working as an Army Education Lecturer.

Many of the actors in the film made the transition from stage or silent movies to “talkies,” and by the mid 1940s were doing well as character actors: Reginald Owens, C. Aubrey Smith, Ernest Cossart, Florence Bates, and Una O’Connor. The movie also stars a very young Peter Lawford. Critics gave high praise such as the New York Times that said, “a delectable and sprightly lampoon,” and “among the year’s most delightful comedies.” Variety was equally complimentary with “Cluny Brown is in the best Lubitsch tradition of subtle, punchy comedy, and his two stars make the most of it. It is a satire on British manners, with bite and relish.”

Have you seen this classic?

__________________________

Eye of the Beholder: An Apron Strings Tea Tale (Releasing June 30, 2026)

Shunned for his appearance, a disfigured veteran encounters acceptance and love where he least expects it.

Left with physical and emotional scars after the Great War, Hank Drake has been shunned by polite society as the Ugly Duckling. Fine by him. He’d much rather be alone. Until he meets the kind proprietress of a tea stand at New York’s World’s Fair who isn’t repulsed by his appearance. Can he hope for acceptance…or even love?

Grace Sutton has no interest in marrying and is tired of her parent’s snide comments that she’s still single on the eve of her 40th birthday. After she loses her job thanks to budget cuts, she decides it’s time to follow her dream of feeding others. Armed with Mrs. Canfield’s cookbook, she opens a refreshment stand at the World’s Fair unaware how one man will turn her life upside down and upset the apple…er, tea cart.

Pre-Order Link: https://amzn.to/3Pz88KO

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cluny_Brown
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0038419/
https://www.criterion.com/films/28564-cluny-brown
https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/cluny-brown-1946

Photo Credits:

Movie Poster: Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=12521988

Movie Still 1: Twentieth Century Fox

Movie Still 2: Twentieth Century Fox

On Tour: A Hundred Magical Reasons

About the Book

Book: A Hundred Magical Reasons

Author: Laura DeNooyer

Genre: Biographical historical fiction, literary fiction, book club fiction

Release Date: January 7, 2025

Most fairy tales have happy endings, but is it too late for this one? After all, Mrs. Charlotte Rose Gordon, the disgruntled town recluse, is eighty-eight and has grown weary of fighting the dragons of her past—including the desire to clear her husband’s name of a 1918 crime.

Dragons of a different kind pursue Carrie Kruisselbrink.

During 1980, the summer of her private rebellion, Carrie defies parental expectations and pursues her café dream. While waiting for funding, she takes a job with Mrs. Gordon.

As Mrs. Gordon unfolds the story of her oppressive childhood and delightful friendship with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum, Carrie never expects to encounter her own fears and soul-searching.

In this modern-day fairy tale that weaves between 1980 and the early 1900s, Mr. Baum’s influence impacts each woman’s personal quests on a hero’s journey neither anticipates. Can Carrie and Mrs. Gordon find common ground in battling their respective dragons?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Laura DeNooyer thrives on creativity and encouraging it in others. A Calvin College graduate, she is a teacher, wife, parent of four adult children, and an award-winning author of heart-warming historical and contemporary fiction. Her novels are perfect for fans of Patti Callahan Henry, Erin Bartels, or Amanda Cox. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her reading, walking, drinking tea with friends, or taking a road trip.

 

 

 

More from Laura

Smitten!

That was me—smitten—after reading a biography about L. Frank Baum, author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900). Baum was an innovative, larger-than-life personality—no surprise there, given that he created the Land of Oz.

He was also a family man with a keen understanding of children and a high regard for women. (His mother-in-law was a suffragist!) His humor and creativity gave him the capacity to bounce back from failure many times.

Having always wanted to write a novel set in the turn of the century, Baum fit perfectly into my plans.

Fun fact: The Baum family summered at the same lake where our family vacations yearly. Though we were at opposite ends of Lake Macatawa near Holland, Michigan—and opposite ends of the century—I felt a connection.

Unstoppable Imagination meets Doubt & Fear

Imagination plays a huge role in the story. My main character Janie is at odds with her rigid parents who have no use for fiction, fantasy, or fairy tales. She is only allowed to read The New England Primer, The Pilgrim’s Progress, and the Bible. Then eight-year-old Janie meets the inimitable L. Frank Baum who stretches her imagination in every way possible. This is a major tension throughout the story.

This ties to 1980, where my protagonist Carrie wants to run a literary-themed café against her parents’ wishes. They have their own goals for her. As grown-up Janie (now eighty-eight-year-old Mrs. Gordon) unveils her childhood troubles to Carrie, they both make startling discoveries.

Bonded by stories and baking Oz-inspired recipes, Carrie and Mrs. Gordon’s intergenerational friendship gradually grows and deepens—one facing fears about her future, the other living with regrets about her past.

Brains, Heart, & Courage

Whether you’re an Oz fan or not, I believe you’ll enjoy getting to know L. Frank Baum. Besides getting the facts straight, I wanted to create his essence on the page so readers experience what it was like to sit on the Baums’ Macatawa porch with him, whether running a printing press or drinking lemonade.

Baum’s stories are all about stirring the child’s imagination, and that’s a key element of my novel. Since we’re all made in the Creator’s image, everybody is creative in their own way. I hope this story inspires readers to use their own imagination to pursue dreams.

But dreams only grow in the soil of confidence. As Mrs. Gordon challenges Carrie, “Do you want to live by your passions or by your fears?” One of those fears is being yourself vs. wearing a mask.

Join the journey of two women who are hugely impacted by the wisdom, heart, and courage of the creator of Oz.

Author Interview:

What questions do you ask yourself when preparing to write a new book?

• Crucial questions for me when planning a novel are:
• Do I have a passion for telling this story?
• Why does this story matter to me?
• Why should it matter to potential readers?
• What unique slant or perspective can I offer?

Additionally, the story must sustain my interest for the long haul—through all the ups and downs of feedback, criticism, multiple revisions, obstacles, rejection, and fears.

Regarding A Hundred Magical Reasons, I also asked what I wanted to accomplish by bringing L. Frank Baum to life on the page. Due to his creativity, love for his family, courage to face obstacles, and resiliency after failure, he serves as an inspiration—which is what I show through his friendship with young Janie.

How are your characters like you? Different? In A Hundred Magical Reasons, Carrie is 22 in 1980 and just happened to attend the same college I did, have the same major, and finish the same year! We even had some of the same insecurities. Therefore, writing her seemed natural at times. Even so, we’re also quite different from each other. She’s a great cook and spurned a career in teaching, while I pursued an education degree and rarely find success in the kitchen.

I am nothing like L. Frank Baum (except for a big imagination), so he was my greatest challenge to write—but oh, so fun! He was outspoken and filled the room with his presence, whereas I am more of an observer, gauging the territory.

My purpose went beyond just getting the facts straight about his life. I wanted to create his essence on the page so that readers would experience what it was like to be with him sitting on his front porch, whether drinking lemonade, listening to his stories, or running a printing press together.

Why do you write in your particular genre? I love writing the kind of stories I like to read—complex and character-driven with complicated relationships and messy family dynamics. I like delving into the gray, murky areas of life, into false appearances and misjudgments. My stories serve food for thought as well as hope and second chances—tales that “redeem the years the locusts ate.”

Regarding genre, I’ve hopped all over the place. Story ideas call to me without regard for genre boundaries. All That Is Hidden is also Southern historical fiction set in western North Carolina in 1968. A Hundred Magical Reasons is biographical historical fiction—and a dual timeline novel. Both of those would be considered literary fiction. Another dual timeline story, The Broken Weathervane (September 2025) qualifies as contemporary women’s fiction (2015 and 1950s). My next two books are women’s fiction and Biblical fiction, respectively.

Perhaps the common thread in most of these is a small-town setting with multi-layered family drama that raises difficult questions. They all make good discussion for book clubs.

What is one thing you wish you could do? I would love to visit the setting for my books and meet my characters in person! That would be an absolute joy. More realistically, I would love to meet with book clubs for their discussions—not just to hear them discuss my book, but to engage and connect and find common ground.

I’m in a neighborhood book club which I thoroughly enjoy. We rarely agree on favorite titles, but each one stretches us as we poke, prod, and explore the stories and the questions they raise. Book clubs are a great way to grow and connect with others.

What was your favorite childhood book and why? In elementary school, I adored Pippi Longstocking because she was the opposite of me. I wished I had her courage—or was it audacity? Her antics made me laugh. I wanted to be Annika who lived next door so I could have regular adventures with Pippi.

In middle school, I relished Little Women and identified with Jo, the writer. I never forgave Amy for burning Jo’s stories! Destroying the irreplaceable is the worst way to hurt a writer. I’ve lost documents on my computer, but I blame technology and have learned how to back up my work. At least it wasn’t a personal attack.

Blog Stops

Simple Harvest Reads, May 22 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, May 23 (Author Interview)

Lights in a Dark World, May 23

Guild Master, May 24 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, May 25

Fiction Book Lover, May 26 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, May 27 (Author Interview)

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, May 28 (Author Interview)

Cover Lover Book Review, May 29

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, May 30 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 30

Vicky Sluiter, May 31 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, June 1 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 2 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, June 3

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Laura is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/fbEmw/a-hundred-magical-reasons-celebration-tour-giveaway

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Megan Short

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Megan Short

Yes, I’m a writer, but I’m also a voracious reader, and finding new-to-me authors is one of my favorite things. I’m pleased to introduce you to Megan Short author of inspirational romantic suspense. Her latest book just came out two days ago!

What is your favorite thing about being a writer? Working with God to create stories that have a purpose beyond myself. Before I became a Christian, I was writing for myself. While I’ve loved writing since I wrote my first story at age three, it was not the same as writing for God’s glory. Knowing that when I write He is guiding the story is a gift.

How did you learn how to write? My mum taught me how to write my first words—she was a pre-school teacher, and as the firstborn I had her full attention. But I learned my writing craft through practice, self-study, and later at UCLA via their Professional Screenwriting program. I feel like I’m still learning to write every time a start a new book!

How many books have you written, and which is your favorite? I have written more books than I

can remember—my first one when I was a teenager. But if I count published (or soon to be published) that is five. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but my current release Alaskan Abduction Target has a special place in my heart because of the message. It’s based upon the parable of the lost sheep, and I feel this is a message that will resonate with all readers during different seasons of their lives. Hopefully it will encourage anyone who’s feeling like they’ve lost their way to have that reassurance that Jesus is the good shepherd who has already laid down his life for His sheep. He’s always interceding for us, and we can trust in Him to come rescue us.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books? I learned so much about the US Coast Guards because they’re forever rescuing my characters. Wow. What those brave men and women do on a daily basis is remarkable. I had no idea that they were the ones going out to the remote Aleutian chain to rescue fishermen in all weather.

What sort of research did you do for your story, and was there an exceptionally interesting tidbit you knew you had to include? I rely heavily on research and have to make sure I’m not spending too much time going down rabbit holes! The latest interesting tidbit was about genealogical DNA testing. I ended up tracking down an FBI agent who’s helped me in the past, who put me onto come contacts at the lab the FBI uses. I thought the FBI had their own labs, but they do outsource the specialized testing, which was news to me.

How has your book changed since your first draft? Alaskan Abduction Target is the biggest rewrite I’ve ever done. Out of the 55,000 words, I replaced around 40,000. This was mostly because in the original draft I had written a Christmas story with a pregnant heroine, and my editors wanted to change those elements and add a child in danger. It opened up a lot of other scenes and depth to Jock and Phoebe and helped me to know them really well by the end. Thankfully, it was also obvious to me that God was in charge of this rewrite. Although it was challenging, I could see the message becoming clearer and clearer with every change. I’m very pleased with how it’s turned out and am so thankful to my amazing editor Besarta who always makes my books way better.

If you were to write a spin-off book about one of your secondary characters, which one would you

choose and why? I use my secondary characters to inspire my future books every single time. In fact with my latest book, the coast guard, Cody Hannigan who’d appeared in Alaskan Police Protector made an appearance in Alaskan Abduction Target. He was such a fun character—my editor says he has a golden retriever vibe, haha—that I just had to explore why he was like that. What had made him so ridiculously cheerful. From that I made him the hero of Alaskan Survival Threat.

What is your next project? I’m writing a story that’s been on my mind for a while—a second chance romance with a very reluctant hero. Set on Kodiak Island, in a fictional remote village, it’s a lot of fun. My hero reminds me a little of Judge Dredd, so pairing him with this dramatic free spirited former fiancé who broke his heart creates a lot of drama. I hope that readers will enjoy it!

About Alaskan Abduction Target

A pursuit for the truth turns into a fight for survival.

When Phoebe Tait suspects her husband’s death was no accident, she heads to Alaska searching for answers—only for her young son to narrowly escape a kidnapping. Officer Jock O’Halloran intervenes just in time, but it soon becomes clear that Phoebe’s investigation has made them a target. Now, with danger closing in, Jock must protect Phoebe and her son while they race to uncover a deadly truth. But can he keep them safe from a threat that will stop at nothing to bury the past—no matter the cost?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Links
Website: https://www.meganshort.net
Newsletter signup: https://meganshortau.kit.com/3679e8e43f
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/meganshortau
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/1491386579
X: https://x.com/MeganShortAU
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/MeganShortAU
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0DSW6JM1D

Photo credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy Megan Short

Sheep: Pixabay/Manfred Richter

Coast Guard Helicopter: Pixabay/Mattia Verga

On Tour! Hadley the Hippo is What She Eats

 

About the Book

Book: Hadley the Hippo is What She Eats

Author: Kayla E. Green

Genre: Children’s Illustrated Book

Release Date: February 10, 2026

Hadley the Hippo is hungry, and she won’t rest until she finds something to eat. But as she walks through her jungle home, she finds that the snacks in the jungle have an odd effect on her-they change her color! Still, Hadley munch, munch, munches her way through the greens, blue, purples, oranges, reds, and yellows of the jungle, hoping to finally satisfy the rumbling in her tummy. Along the way, she finds that it really does matter what you consume.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

 

About the Author

Kayla E. Green is an award-winning author and poet who writes to remind others—and herself—that light always prevails over darkness. When she isn’t writing, reading, or spending time with her family, she loves singing loudly and off-key to KLove Radio and pretending she’s a unicorn. Fittingly, her YA debut fantasy novel is titled The Goodness of Unicorns.

 

 

  

More from Kayla

I wrote Hadley the Hippo is What She Eats to provide a fun story to engage small learners. Through the hippo’s journey through the jungle where her color changes based on what she eats, pre-K and primary students can learn about both fruits and colors. But, what’s more, the back of the book contains a note to parents/teachers with activities to discuss the importance of consumption—what we listen to on the radio, watch on TV and online, and read impacts our minds and hearts. Approaching this lesson in an age-appropriate way is important for providing a foundational framework for discernment later in life.

As a former elementary school librarian and classroom teacher turned full-time mother, I know firsthand how play and learning go hand in hand. This principle applies to foundational skills for understanding biblical teachings, character development, math, literacy, and, well, a lot of things! Playing games with your learners can help reinforce that learning is fun–not only is there a game involved, but your learner will get to spend time with YOU!

As a part of the book tour, I’m so excited to share 3 learning games with you! These games are designed with minimal materials but maximum fun. PLUS, they can be modified for various age groups. Find these 3 learning games to play with littles at home here in this online slideshow:

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGL0GUW9TM/zHX6mL4Sp2gt06-apfjdMA/view?utm_content=DAGL0GUW9TM&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h3c4b129030

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 19

Simple Harvest Reads, May 20 (Author Interview)

The Bookish Ledger, May 21 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 21

Guild Master, May 22 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, May 23

Fiction Book Lover, May 24 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, May 25 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, May 26 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, May 27

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, May 28 (Author Interview)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 29 (Author Interview)

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, May 29

Blossoms and Blessings, May 30 (Author Interview)

Vicky Sluiter, May 31

Artistic Nobody, June 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kayla is giving away the grand prize of a copy of the book, the companion coloring book, a special cookie mix from Story Crumbs inspired by Hadley, and a $20 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/efZJQ/hadley-the-hippo-is-what-she-eats-celebration-tour-giveaway

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Melissa Henderson

 

Talkshow Thursday: Melissa Henderson

I’m pleased to welcome author Melissa Henderson back to my blog. She has written children’s books, novellas, articles, and devotionals. Read on for a behind the scenes look at her writing journey.

As a young girl, I created stories in my mind. A simple daily activity could turn into the basis for a story. My elementary school teachers and my parents encouraged my creativity. From watching Mama hang clothes on the clothesline and pretending I had imaginary friends running barefoot in the grass, to helping Daddy plant seeds in the garden and giving the plants silly names, I learned the art of imagination. Today, I can find a story in conversations and in watching people. Every moment can develop into a tale to be read.

One of my favorite parts of being a writer is hearing from readers. I write for numerous online and in-print publications. I’ve received heartwarming letters, emails, and messages from folks who enjoyed reading my devotions, non-fiction pieces, children’s stories, and fiction selections. Those connections give me inspiration to keep writing. I respond to each person and thank them for reaching out.

My writing space is where the creativity flows. My desk sits by a window that allows me to view the

hummingbirds in the warm weather and the Carolina wrens in the cooler weather. I have a note taped to my computer that says “PRAY FIRST”. I believe that praying before touching the keyboard or picking up a pen to begin writing is vital to the creative process. Asking God to give me the words that He wants to share is important. God is always first. I pray for wisdom, discernment, and revelation.

An interesting aspect of my writing space is that it also serves as a storage area for toys and craft items for the grandchildren. I have my designated area, and the other parts of the room are filled with bright-colored toys, stuffed animals, building blocks, games, dolls, race cars, and numerous books.

My first children’s book, Licky the Lizard was written a few years ago. The book is a best seller at vendor events, school programs, and with parents and grandparents. I wrote that story because I was afraid of lizards. The book shares that we don’t have to be afraid of lizards because God created the lizards and God created us.

My second book for children, Grumpy the Gator shares that if we see a gator, go and tell an adult. Do not go near the pond. When my husband and I moved from Virginia to South Carolina, we were shocked by the number of alligators in neighborhood ponds. I remember seeing a gator for the first time and running to the next-door neighbor’s home, pounding on the door, and shouting, “There’s a gator!” Of course, the neighbor laughed and said, “Yes, he’s there every day. Just don’t go near the water."

People often ask about my road to publication. Every writer has to choose their own path to having their writing published. I’ve been traditionally published, self-published, and hybrid published. Each experience was unique. There are pros and cons to each path of publication. A writer needs to consider the best option for their work.

A favorite part of writing non-fiction and fiction is the opportunity to speak at events and visit schools to read my stories. When I read the children’s stories, I change my voice and use different facial expressions to engage the listeners. I’ve been blessed to read at preschools, schools, and medical offices. A sweet joy fills my heart when I hear a child say, “I have that book at my house.”

I write every day. I find joy in releasing thoughts onto paper or the computer. Sharing a funny family experience on my blog, or writing about grief, or sharing a message that I’ve learned from Scripture can be ways to share the light and love of God. I encourage everyone to keep a journal to pass on to the next generation. Sharing precious memories can build wonderful relationships.

About Licky the Lizard

Licky the Lizard is one nice lizard and just like you and me, he’s one of God’s own creations. In “Licky the Lizard”, author Melissa Henderson offers parents, grandparents, and educators a tale that teaches young children a simple, yet important message: There is no need to fear any of God’s creatures because we are all created by Him—-and He loves us all.

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/47EBahV

Connect with Melissa:
Website: https://melissaghenderson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaHendersonAuthor/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07GSKGB7R
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/melissa-henderson

Photo Credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy of Melissa G. Henderson

Praying Hands: Pixabay/Conger Design

Microphone: Pixabay/Michal Jarmoluk