Welcome to your exclusive, unrestricted look into the creative world of debut romance author Ellis Darnell! While the public preview gives readers a taste of her charming coastal setting, we saved the full, raw, and delightfully honest 30-question chat for our First Editions members.

Grab a Diet Pepsi and some Taco Bell (Ellis’s ultimate writing fuel), and dive into this deep conversation about battling imposter syndrome, drafting an entire novel on an iPhone, and what the future holds for the cozy town of Driftbay.

1. The Debut Milestone

Q: Congratulations on your debut release! What has been the most exciting part of preparing for the launch of What The Heart Wants?

Ellis Darnell: "Thank you so much! Honestly, the most exciting and special part before launch was getting my first proof copy. Getting to physically hold the story in my hands was such a monumental moment, a culmination of so much hard work. I cried when I unboxed the first copy!"

2. Describe the Vibe

Q: For readers discovering your work for the first time, how would you describe What The Heart Wants in three words?

Ellis Darnell: "Cozy, sweet, and heartfelt."

3. A Long-Awaited Spark

Q: What inspired you to write a story centered around love, grief, family, and fresh starts?

Ellis Darnell: "I got the basic idea when I was seventeen, of a young girl reeling from the loss of her mom and going to live with her aunt. I wrote a (very rough) story around that time. Then life happened and so many years went by and I stopped writing for a long time. I got inspired again about two years ago for the diner aspect, and just stuck a note in my phone about it.

Then last fall, the story hit me like a ton of bricks and I knew I had to tell it. I had always wanted to tell stories from different perspectives but didn’t know how to structure it when I was younger. It wasn’t until I started reading Freida McFadden books that I realized I could write different perspectives and how I could structure it. I knew I wanted to write from Thea’s perspective, and adding her aunt’s in changed so much with what I could do for the draft."

4. Dreaming of Driftbay

Q: Driftbay sounds like a charming coastal town. What drew you to that setting, and is there anything readers should know about it before diving in?

Ellis Darnell: "The beach always relaxes me. I actually vacationed at the beach while I was working on the book and getting to spend a few days beachside while delving into these characters really helped me create the setting. I’m also from a small town in the Midwest, so combining both aspects created a perfect slice of heaven for me. I wanted somewhere peaceful where Thea could heal and discover that sometimes the smallest places take up the biggest room in our hearts."

5. The Ultimate Comfort Food

Q: Baking plays a role in the story. If you could choose one baked good that perfectly represents What The Heart Wants, what would it be and why?

Ellis Darnell: "While there’s many recipes mentioned in the book, I think Thea’s lemon-blueberry scones would represent the book the best. They’re sweet and a little tart, just like Thea’s and Beth’s journeys with grief and love."

6. The Swiftie Soundtrack

Q: Your author bio mentions that you're a huge Taylor Swift fan. If What The Heart Wants had an unofficial Taylor Swift soundtrack, what songs would make the playlist?

Ellis Darnell: "OH MAN - this is a tough one! Guilty as Sin? is included in the book playlist, but if I had to make just a Taylor playlist, it would be…

• Guilty as Sin?

• Ruin the Friendship

• Opalite

• You Are In Love

• State of Grace

• Treacherous

• Everything Has Changed

• Enchanted

• Fearless

• Labyrinth

• Midnight Rain

• evermore

• Daylight

• Lover

• Gorgeous

• Tied Together With a Smile"

7. A Note for Readers

Q: If readers could only know one thing before picking up your book, what would you want them to know?

Ellis Darnell: "Just like grief, love isn’t linear but it’s never too late for true love."

8. The Ultimate Comfort Read

Q: The Comfort Read: What is the one book you can re-read over and over again and never get tired of?

Ellis Darnell: "Dr. Franklin’s Island by Ann Halam - I discovered it in junior high and it’s still one of my favorite books to this day!"

9. Resting on the Nightstand

Q: The To-Be-Read Pile: What books are currently sitting on your nightstand waiting to be read next?

Ellis Darnell:

• A Kingdom of Salt and Stone – Liv Webster

• Comeback Season – Sarah Adkins

• Beneath The Broken Sky – Emily Scotto

• Everything’s Coming Up Rosie – Courtney Walsh

10. The Gateway Book

Q: The Gateway Book: What was the first book you remember reading that made you absolutely fall in love with reading?

Ellis Darnell: "Oh, gosh, there’s so many! But definitely the American Girls series - I remember devouring all of the girls’ stories. I had the Felicity doll, and was also a huge fan of Molly, Addy, and Samantha!"

11. Early Creative Sparks

Q: You've been creating stories since you were young. Do you remember the very first story you wrote that made you think, "I want to be an author"?

Ellis Darnell: "I wrote a Harry Potter-inspired story about mind readers when I was eleven. Fantasy is so much harder to write with all of the world-building. I’d like to dive into that genre one day."

12. Advice to My Younger Self

Q: Looking back, what advice would present-day Ellis give to eleven-year-old Ellis who was busy building fictional worlds?

Ellis Darnell: "Keep going, even on the hard days. Just like shows, it will always come together in the end."

13. The Self-Publishing Eye-Opener

Q: What surprised you most about the publishing process that readers might not realize?

Ellis Darnell: "Being a self-published author, I am responsible for every aspect. I’m surprised at how much time I spend on marketing - that is currently my main priority as I approach launch. I am surrounded by incredible people in my personal life that have helped me along the journey - I could NOT have done it without their help."

14. Facing the Inner Critic

Q: What was the biggest challenge you faced while writing What The Heart Wants?

Ellis Darnell: "Imposter syndrome. I still struggle with it, to be honest. I have days where I think I’m not good enough and that no one will want to read my story. But I love my characters and story and I think others will, too."

15. The Mobile Writing Studio

Q: The Writing Setup: Are you a desk-and-computer writer, a couch-and-laptop writer, or a hand-written notebook writer? What does your ideal writing space look like?

Ellis Darnell: "My laptop at the kitchen table. Fun fact, I didn’t have a working laptop for the majority of the time I wrote this book! My mom got me a new one for Christmas, which is amazing! I wrote about 85% on Google Docs on my iPhone!"

16. Literary Fuel

Q: The Fuel: What is your ultimate writing snack or beverage? Are you powered by coffee, tea, or something completely different?

Ellis Darnell: "Diet Pepsi, through and through. Also, Taco Bell - specifically, Doritos Locos Tacos."

17. Midnight Inspiration

Q: The Routine: Are you a morning bird who writes before the world wakes up, or a night owl who gets creative after dark?

Ellis Darnell: "A night owl! I cannot count how many good ideas that have come to me when I’m falling asleep or wake me up in the middle of the night. Thank God for my phone and the notes app!"

18. Transforming the Process

Q: Plotter vs. Pantser: When starting a new project, do you outline absolutely everything beforehand, or do some surprises reveal themselves while you're writing?

Ellis Darnell: "I used to be a pantser, but this was the first project I worked off of an outline. For my next project, I have an 11-page outline already!"

19. The Background Brain

Q: The Hardest Part: What comes easiest to you when writing—creating the world, drafting dialogue, or developing plot twists? Which part is the most challenging?

Ellis Darnell: "I’ve always said that my brain is like an old 90’s computer - always running something in the background. I can be at work, in a rehearsal, or even trying to fall asleep and the best ideas will hit me!"

20. Surprising Characters

Q: Without giving away spoilers, which character in What The Heart Wants surprised you the most while writing?

Ellis Darnell: "Judith."

21. A Day in Driftbay

Q: The Cast: If you could spend one day hanging out with any character from your books, who would it be and what would you do together?

Ellis Darnell: "Probably a tie between Thea and Beth. I’d love to spend a day in Driftbay eating their baked goods, reading a good book, visiting the diner, and relaxing at the beach."

22. Feline Feedback

Q: Your bio mentions two cats. If your cats could review your books, what do you think they'd say?

Ellis Darnell: "More fish."

23. From the Stage to the Page

Q: You also work in theatre. Has anything you've learned from stage management influenced the way you tell stories on the page?

Ellis Darnell: "Being in theatre has introduced me to a variety of personalities. I am always observing and constantly inspired by the most random, mundane things. I always tell actors that they are always auditioning for their next role and sometimes, my next book!"

24. Ready for the Screen

Q: If What The Heart Wants became a movie or TV series, what scene would you be most excited to see brought to life?

Ellis Darnell: "Either the scones scene between Thea and Graham or Charlie and Beth’s date night!"

25. The Island Provisions

Q: You're stranded on a beach with only three books, one album, and one fictional character. What are you bringing?

Ellis Darnell: "Books - Dr. Franklin’s Island by Ann Halam, The Teacher by Freida McFadden, and Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak.

One album - Gone Now by Bleachers.

One fictional character - Louise Belcher from Bob’s Burgers."

26. Vacation Destinations

Q: What fictional world would you most like to visit for a week?

Ellis Darnell: "Velaris!"

27. The Literary Confection

Q: If your writing style were a dessert, what dessert would it be and why?

(Ellis left us with a sweet cliffhanger on this one—but based on her book, we’re betting it tastes like a warm lemon-blueberry scone with a side of heartfelt comfort!)

28. Return to the Coast

Q: Can readers expect more stories set in the world of Driftbay?

Ellis Darnell: "Oh, yes. I’m excited to expand the collection."

29. Sneak Peeks & Signings

Q: Are there any upcoming projects or future releases that you're especially excited to share with readers?

Ellis Darnell: "While I can’t say too much, I am planning book two for these characters, focusing on early-reader fan favorites, Beth and Judith. I also will be having some signings this summer and fall! You can check the schedule on my Instagram, @authorellisdarnell."

30. The Lasting Impression

Q: Finally, what do you hope readers take away from What The Heart Wants after turning the final page?

Ellis Darnell: "Grief and love are messy, but what’s meant to be will always work out in the end."

Support the Author & Secure Your Copy!

What The Heart Wants is available for pre-order right now! Support Ellis's incredible self-published debut journey by ordering through these fantastic book boutiques:

• Signed & Special Pre-orders: The Enchanted Heart Booktique

• Sweet & Spicy Romance Picks: Coastal Cowboy Romance Bookstore

• Local Indie Support: Wallflower Book Co.

Connect with Ellis Darnell online:

• Official Website: Author Ellis Darnell

• Instagram/Threads: @authorellisdarnell

• Goodreads: Ellis Darnell Page

• 
  

📱 Instagram & TikTok Caption

Caption:

Pack your bags, we’re heading to Driftbay! 

🌊 Custom-designed for our favorite comfort romance lovers, we’re sitting down with debut novelist Ellis Darnell to chat all things healing, small-town charm, and the ultimate Taylor Swift bookish playlist. 🎧✨

From crying over her very first physical proof copy to drafting 85% of her entire manuscript directly on an iPhone notes app, Ellis’s journey is just as inspiring as her sweet, heartfelt storytelling.

Here’s a little taste of our interview:

📖 In three words, what is What The Heart Wants?

"Cozy, sweet, and heartfelt."

🧁 If your book were a baked good, what would it be?

"Thea’s lemon-blueberry scones... They’re sweet and a little tart, just like the journeys with grief and love."

💡 What's one thing readers should know before picking it up?

"Just like grief, love isn’t linear but it’s never too late for true love."

Ready for the full 30-question deep dive? 💎

Ellis gets completely candid about overcoming imposter syndrome, the theater management background that inspires her characters, and a sneak peek into Book 2! Tap the link in our bio to visit our Bindery page and read the full exclusive interview.

Link in Bio to Read More!

📚 Are you an author interested in being featured in a future Book Club Conversation? Visit our Linktree and complete the Author Interest Form!

💬 Readers: Is there an author you'd love to see us interview? Drop their name in the comments below!

👯 Authors: Tag an author friend who might enjoy sharing their story with our community.

#BookTok #CozyRomance #SmallTownRomance #DebutAuthor #WhatTheHeartWants #Bookstagram #SwiftieBookish

Welcome back to new Book Club Conversations, book lovers! If your favorite kind of read involves a charming coastal town, a cozy diner, a dash of mouthwatering baking recipes, and a deeply moving story of healing and love, you are going to fall head over heels for today’s featured author.

We are sitting down with debut novelist Ellis Darnell to celebrate the upcoming release of her book, What The Heart Wants! Ellis shares the emotional milestone of unboxing her very first proof copy, the exact Taylor Swift tracks that capture the vibe of her book, and how dual perspectives helped bring this sweet, comforting world to life.

Enjoy part one of our interview below!

1. The Debut Milestone

Q: Congratulations on your debut release! What has been the most exciting part of preparing for the launch of What The Heart Wants?

Ellis Darnell: "Thank you so much! Honestly, the most exciting and special part before launch was getting my first proof copy. Getting to physically hold the story in my hands was such a monumental moment, a culmination of so much hard work. I cried when I unboxed the first copy!"

2. Describe the Vibe

Q: For readers discovering your work for the first time, how would you describe What The Heart Wants in three words?

Ellis Darnell: "Cozy, sweet, and heartfelt."

3. A Long-Awaited Spark

Q: What inspired you to write a story centered around love, grief, family, and fresh starts?

Ellis Darnell: "I got the basic idea when I was seventeen, of a young girl reeling from the loss of her mom and going to live with her aunt. I wrote a (very rough) story around that time. Then life happened and so many years went by and I stopped writing for a long time. I got inspired again about two years ago for the diner aspect, and just stuck a note in my phone about it.

Then last fall, the story hit me like a ton of bricks and I knew I had to tell it. I had always wanted to tell stories from different perspectives but didn’t know how to structure it when I was younger. It wasn’t until I started reading Freida McFadden books that I realized I could write different perspectives and how I could structure it. I knew I wanted to write from Thea’s perspective, and adding her aunt’s in changed so much with what I could do for the draft."

4. Dreaming of Driftbay

Q: Driftbay sounds like a charming coastal town. What drew you to that setting, and is there anything readers should know about it before diving in?

Ellis Darnell: "The beach always relaxes me. I actually vacationed at the beach while I was working on the book and getting to spend a few days beachside while delving into these characters really helped me create the setting. I’m also from a small town in the Midwest, so combining both aspects created a perfect slice of heaven for me. I wanted somewhere peaceful where Thea could heal and discover that sometimes the smallest places take up the biggest room in our hearts."

5. The Ultimate Comfort Food

Q: Baking plays a role in the story. If you could choose one baked good that perfectly represents What The Heart Wants, what would it be and why?

Ellis Darnell: "While there’s many recipes mentioned in the book, I think Thea’s lemon-blueberry scones would represent the book the best. They’re sweet and a little tart, just like Thea’s and Beth’s journeys with grief and love."

6. The Swiftie Soundtrack

Q: Your author bio mentions that you're a huge Taylor Swift fan. If What The Heart Wants had an unofficial Taylor Swift soundtrack, what songs would make the playlist?

Ellis Darnell: "OH MAN - this is a tough one! Guilty as Sin? is included in the book playlist, but if I had to make just a Taylor playlist, it would be…

• Guilty as Sin?

• Ruin the Friendship

• Opalite

• You Are In Love

• State of Grace

• Treacherous

• Everything Has Changed

• Enchanted

• Fearless

• Labyrinth

• Midnight Rain

• evermore

• Daylight

• Lover

• Gorgeous

• Tied Together With a Smile"

7. A Note for Readers

Q: If readers could only know one thing before picking up your book, what would you want them to know?

Ellis Darnell: "Just like grief, love isn’t linear but it’s never too late for true love."

8. The Ultimate Comfort Read

Q: The Comfort Read: What is the one book you can re-read over and over again and never get tired of?

Ellis Darnell: "Dr. Franklin’s Island by Ann Halam - I discovered it in junior high and it’s still one of my favorite books to this day!"

9. Resting on the Nightstand

Q: The To-Be-Read Pile: What books are currently sitting on your nightstand waiting to be read next?

Ellis Darnell:

• A Kingdom of Salt and Stone – Liv Webster

• Comeback Season – Sarah Adkins

• Beneath The Broken Sky – Emily Scotto

• Everything’s Coming Up Rosie – Courtney Walsh

10. The Gateway Book

Q: The Gateway Book: What was the first book you remember reading that made you absolutely fall in love with reading?

Ellis Darnell: "Oh, gosh, there’s so many! But definitely the American Girls series - I remember devouring all of the girls’ stories. I had the Felicity doll, and was also a huge fan of Molly, Addy, and Samantha!"

Join The First Editions for the Full Interview! 💎

Want to dive even deeper into Ellis Darnell’s writing journey? This free preview is just the beginning! By upgrading to our premium membership, The First Editions, you can unlock the complete, unedited Q&A right now.

What you'll unlock as a premium member:

• The Full Interview: Exclusive bonus questions where Ellis dishes out her absolute best advice for aspiring debut authors, behind-the-scenes secrets of writing What The Heart Wants, and what she is working on next.

• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Early reveals of upcoming author spotlights, cover reveals, and community features before anyone else sees them.

• Exclusive Community Perks: Join dedicated discussion threads with fellow romance lovers, participate in member-only book giveaways, and get direct access to our premium literary events.

Don't miss out on the full story—join The First Editions family today!

Support the Author & Secure Your Copy!

What The Heart Wants is available for pre-order right now! Support Ellis and these wonderful indie bookstores by grabbing your copy via the links below:

• Signed Copies: The Enchanted Heart Booktique

• Coastal Cowboy Romance Bookstore: Shop Romance Books & Literature

• Wallflower Book Co.: Pre-Order Online

Connect with Ellis Darnell:

• Official Website: Author Ellis Darnell

• Instagram/Threads: @authorellisdarnell

• Goodreads: Ellis Darnell Author Page

Welcome to your exclusive deep dive into the world of Shepherd’s Grove!

DeAnna Kaye Fields is currently having a whirlwind summer with back-to-back releases. Below, she opens up about the emotional weight behind her newest characters, her "pantser" writing habits, and the incredible indie community that helped her bring these stories to life.

1. A Car with Personality

Q: In Golden Hour, Bellamy gives her heart to her patients, her friends, and her beloved Kia Soul named Colonel Mustard. Do you also give your cars dramatic names?

DeAnna: "My cars absolutely DO have dramatic names! In fact, Colonel Mustard was MY yellow Kia Soul, and I loved her! Had to feature her in my first book! My current car, an orange Nissan Rogue, is named Orange Crush!"

2. Real-Life Small Town Charm

Q: What is your absolute favorite thing about Kentucky small-town life that you knew you had to capture in your novels?

DeAnna: "In small-town Kentucky, you will inevitably run into someone you know at Walmart. And if you don’t, you’ll make small talk with someone in line. Or the cashier. Don’t even get me started on the church connections! I absolutely love that part of small-town life!"

3. The Ultimate Writing Fuel

Q: You describe yourself as "hopelessly addicted to Coca-Cola." Is it your ultimate writing fuel?

DeAnna: "Listen, Coca-Cola is now, and forever will be, my go-to drink. I have Coke Hey Dudes (so does Rowena in Grass Is Greener), and when Carnival Cruises switched from Coke to Pepsi about 8 years ago, I sent them a Facebook Message. Now, they have switched back to Coke. You’re welcome Carnival Cruisers!"

4. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book you remember reading that made you fall in love with reading?

DeAnna: "The Outsiders. Hands down. I loved that book so much that to this day, some 30 years later, I still cannot eat bologna because Ponyboy could no longer eat it."

5. The Comfort Read

Q: What is the one book you can re-read over and over again?

DeAnna: "This is going to sound odd, but it's Gone With the Wind. I like to escape back into Tara with Scarlett. I mean, Rhett Butler? Hello!"

6. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: What exciting books are currently hiding in your own TBR pile?

DeAnna: "Valicity Elaine’s Withered Rose series, JB Juke’s Wen Rising... there’s honestly so many! I just went to Indy Lit Con ‘26 and found so many Indie authors I'm wanting to dig into!"

7. Building the Grove

Q: Golden Hour focuses on Edison and Bellamy, while Grass Is Greener shifts to Rowena and Luther. How do these two couples interact within the broader community?

DeAnna: "One of my favorite things about Shepherd's Grove is watching side characters grow into main characters. While Bellamy and Edison aren't front and center in Grass Is Greener, readers will still see familiar faces. Characters pop in and out of each other's lives just like they would in a real small town."

8. Balancing Light and Shadow

Q: In Grass Is Greener, you tackle heavy themes like grief and addiction recovery. How do you balance the cozy safety of a closed-door romance with these emotional struggles?

DeAnna: "No life is perfect, and I want to show that. There are happy, joyous moments in the midst of grief, addiction recovery, or other heavy elements. Love still blooms even if there’s fog or obstacles."

9. Pursuing the Dream

Q: What was the exact spark that made you say, 'It's time to sit down and write these stories'?

DeAnna: "My youngest daughter graduated and got a job and a boyfriend. She wasn’t around much, so I suddenly had more time on my hands. I decided to put that time to good use!"

10. Plotter vs. Pantser

Q: Do you outline everything or fly by the seat of your pants?

DeAnna: "Oh, I’m a pantser who sorta kinda knows the plot. Just today, I completely rewrote book 5 (including the title) while washing my hair! Sometimes the characters take over, but I try to reign them in!"

11. The Writing Setup & Routine

Q: Are you a desk-and-computer writer or a couch-and-laptop writer? Morning bird or night owl?

DeAnna: "I sit in the living room at a TV tray in a chair we got from my mother-in-law. I like being in the living room with my hubby. During the week, I write in the evenings as I still have a full-time job. Saturdays I tend to get started in the afternoons after my husband and I have finished our dilly-dallying."

12. The Hardest Part

Q: What comes easiest atmosphere, banter, or breakthroughs? And what makes you want to pull your hair out?

DeAnna: "It all drifts between easy and difficult. Sometimes I crack myself up with the banter; other times I’m stuck. The emotional breakthroughs can be tough. Book 3, Signed in Red, has some emotional elements that actually made me cry while writing them. That was… difficult."

13. The Cast

Q: If you could spend one day hanging out with any character from your upcoming books, who would it be?

DeAnna: "Grass Is Greener has a dog named Ivy she’s named after a dog we lost, IV. Honestly, I’d love to hang out with Luther’s girl and give her all the pets and cuddles."

14. Double Summer Celebrations

Q: With Golden Hour out July 1st and Grass Is Greener out September 1st, do you have any release-day traditions?

DeAnna: "Well, Golden Hour is my first, so no traditions yet! I am having a launch party at my favorite local bookstore, Main Book Hook, and I hope to make that a tradition! With signings and writing and editing, I may not see much sun this summer!"

A Final Word from DeAnna: "The indie author community is like none other. I've needed help from recommendations to KDP hiccups to joining lives, and multiple people from across all genres and continents have stepped up. They get nothing for it either, just my eternal gratitude. I'm blessed to be a part of this community!"

🔗 Connect with DeAnna Kaye Fields

• Official Website: www.dkfwrites.com

• Socials: @dkfwrites (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads)

• Goodreads: Follow DeAnna's Reviews

Add the Shepherd's Grove Stories to your shelf:

• Read Golden Hour: Amazon Link

• Pre-order Grass Is Greener: Amazon Link

Today, we are featuring the delightful DeAnna Kaye Fields, an author who masterfully captures the warmth and quirkiness of Kentucky life in her romance novels.

If you have ever picked up Golden Hour or Grass Is Greener, you know her stories are packed with heart, humor, and characters that feel like old friends. We sat down with DeAnna to chat about everything from car names to the legendary Coke vs. Pepsi battle on the high seas.

Enjoy part one of our interview below!

1. A Car with Personality

Q: In Golden Hour, Bellamy gives her heart to her patients, her friends, and her beloved Kia Soul named Colonel Mustard. We have to know: do you also give your cars dramatic names, or did the inspiration for Colonel Mustard come from somewhere else?

DeAnna: "My cars absolutely DO have dramatic names! In fact, Colonel Mustard was MY yellow Kia Soul, and I loved her! Had to feature her in my first book! My current car, an orange Nissan Rogue, is named Orange Crush!"

2. Real-Life Small Town Charm

Q: Your bio mentions that Shepherd’s Grove is inspired by beautiful real-world Kentucky towns like Shepherdsville and Hillview. What is your absolute favorite thing about Kentucky small-town life that you knew you had to capture in your romance novels?

DeAnna: "In small-town Kentucky, you will inevitably run into someone you know at Walmart. And if you don’t, you’ll make small talk with someone in line. Or the cashier. Don’t even get me started on the church connections! I absolutely love that part of small-town life!"

3. The Ultimate Writing Fuel

Q: You describe yourself as hopelessly addicted to Coca-Cola, and a shared Coke even pops up as a sweet connection point in Grass Is Greener. Is an ice-cold Coke your ultimate writing fuel, or do you have a specific snack that helps you hit your daily word count?

DeAnna: "Listen, Coca-Cola is now, and forever will be, my go-to drink. I have Coke Hey Dudes (so does Rowena in Grass Is Greener), and when Carnival Cruises switched from Coke to Pepsi about 8 years ago, I sent them a Facebook Message. Now, they have switched back to Coke. You’re welcome Carnival Cruisers!"

4. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book you remember reading that made you absolutely fall in love with reading?

DeAnna: "The Outsiders. Hands down. I loved that book so much that to this day, some 30 years later, I still cannot eat bologna because Ponyboy could no longer eat it. That book has stayed with me all these years."

5. The Comfort Read

Q: What is the one book you can re-read over and over again and never get tired of?

DeAnna: "This is going to sound odd, but it's Gone With the Wind. I like to escape back into Tara with Scarlett. I mean, Rhett Butler? Hello!"

6. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: As someone who loves blind dates with a book and mystery bags, what exciting books are currently hiding in your own TBR pile?

DeAnna: "Oh man… So many! Valicity Elaine’s Withered Rose series, JB Juke’s Wen Rising, there’s honestly so many! I just went to Indy Lit Con ‘26 and found so many Indie authors and their books that I’m wanting to dig into!"

Want Deeper Access? 💎

This is just a small preview of our wonderful conversation with DeAnna Kaye Fields! Premium members of The First Editions can log in now to unlock the complete, unedited Q&A.

Inside the Premium Tier, DeAnna dishes on:

• A deeper look into the inspiration behind Cody's psychological journey.

• Why second-chance romances resonate so deeply with her.

• Her absolute favorite writing routines, snacks, and release-day traditions.

• Her dream day hanging out with one of her own characters in real life.

Connect with DeAnna Kaye Fields

Don't miss out on DeAnna's heartwarming stories! Be sure to grab your copies and follow her journey online:

• Official Website: dkfwrites.com

• Follow on Socials: @dkfwrites (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & Threads)

• Goodreads: DeAnna Kaye Fields Author Page

• Shop Golden Hour: Amazon Link

• Pre-Order Grass Is Greener (eBook): Amazon Link

This is the full-access edition of our Q&A for The First Editions paid members. Thank you for supporting our community! 💎

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Hey readers and creators!

Summer is in full swing, and it’s time to give your bookish content a fresh, sunny upgrade. We are back with your monthly dose of design goodies here! Whether you want to review your latest beach read or show off your mid-summer stats, we’ve got you covered.

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Ready to dive deeper into These Empty Places? Whether you're hosting a book club, reading with a friend, or enjoying a quiet solo reading experience, we've created resources to make your journey through Lake Toxaway even more meaningful.

✨ Now Available:

📖 Book Club Kit + Individual Book Club Member Reader Guide – Everything you need to host a memorable discussion with themed activities, recipes, discussion questions, printables, and a reader guide to help members prepare before your meeting.

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Whether you're discussing the novel with your book club, sharing it with your favorite reading buddy, or savoring every chapter on your own, these guides are filled with thoughtful prompts, cozy activities, and bookish extras to help you get even more out of Sarah Loudin Thomas's beautiful story of hope, friendship, and second chances.

Happy reading! 📚💙

Some stories don't need dramatic twists or nonstop action to leave a lasting impression. Instead, they quietly settle into your heart, reminding you that healing often happens one small step at a time. These Empty Places by Sarah Loudin Thomas is exactly that kind of novel, a heartfelt historical fiction that blends real history with unforgettable characters and powerful themes of forgiveness, friendship, and finding hope after unimaginable loss.

If your book club enjoys character-driven historical fiction filled with meaningful conversations, this one deserves a spot on your reading list.

A Story Rooted in History

Set against the fascinating backdrop of North Carolina's Lake Toxaway, the novel begins after one of the area's most devastating real-life events, the collapse of the lake's dam. Fourteen years later, America stands on the edge of the Great Depression, and the once-thriving resort community is struggling to rediscover itself.

Sarah Loudin Thomas does an incredible job weaving historical facts into the fictional lives of her characters. Rather than simply telling readers about history, she allows us to experience how ordinary people lived through extraordinary circumstances.

The setting almost becomes a character itself, full of beauty, memories, and the lingering question of whether broken things can truly be restored.

Two Women, Two Different Paths

One of my favorite aspects of this novel is the relationship between Claire Roth and Lena Hawkins.

Claire has spent years convincing herself she made the right choices, sacrificing love in exchange for security and status. Yet beneath her comfortable life lies regret that refuses to disappear.

Lena, on the other hand, has experienced the opposite journey. After marrying for love, everything falls apart when financial ruin leaves her and her husband with almost nothing. Watching her rebuild her life from the ground up makes her incredibly easy to root for.

Although these women come from completely different backgrounds, their friendship grows naturally and becomes the emotional heart of the story. Their conversations, support for one another, and shared desire for a better future create some of the novel's most memorable moments.

Books, Libraries, and New Beginnings

As a book lover, one storyline especially stood out to me.

Claire's dream of building a personal library that provides both employment and education gives the novel an extra layer of warmth. Any reader who believes books can change lives will likely appreciate this part of the story.

The library represents far more than shelves filled with books; it becomes a symbol of hope, opportunity, and investing in a struggling community.

It's difficult not to smile while reading these scenes.

Themes Worth Discussing

This is the kind of novel that naturally sparks meaningful book club conversations.

Some discussion topics include:

• Can we ever truly let go of our past decisions?

• Is security worth sacrificing happiness?

• How much should we allow regret to shape our future?

• Can friendship bridge social and economic differences?

• What role do books and education play in rebuilding communities?

• How do people find hope after financial or personal devastation?

There are plenty of emotional moments throughout the novel, but they're balanced with optimism and grace rather than overwhelming sadness.

Sarah Loudin Thomas's Writing Style

Sarah Loudin Thomas writes with quiet confidence.

Her prose isn't flashy or overly dramatic. Instead, she focuses on rich descriptions, believable dialogue, and emotional authenticity. The pacing is gentle, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the characters and setting.

Readers who enjoy thoughtful historical fiction rather than fast-paced suspense will likely appreciate her storytelling style.

Final Thoughts

I found These Empty Places to be a thoughtful, comforting read that reminds us life rarely follows the path we expect but that doesn't mean hope is lost.

Between its richly researched historical setting, memorable female friendships, themes of forgiveness and second chances, and love of books, this novel offers plenty for readers to enjoy and even more for book clubs to discuss long after the final chapter.

If your book club loves historical fiction with heart, memorable characters, and conversations that continue well after the meeting ends, this is one worth picking up.

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5

Bring This Book to Your Next Book Club Meeting

Ready to dive even deeper into These Empty Places?

📚 Download our FREE Mini Book Club Kit to get started with discussion questions, activities, and more. https://canva.link/ezrv7iixmcd00do 

Want the complete experience? Join The First Editions to unlock our full collection of reading resources, including:

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• 👤 Individual Book Club Member Reader Guide

• 👯 Buddy Reader Kit

• ☕ Solo Reader Kit

Whether you're reading with your favorite book club, one reading buddy, or enjoying a cozy solo reading weekend, there's a kit designed to make your reading experience even more engaging and memorable.

Now I'd love to hear from you!

If you could revisit one place from your past just once would you go back, or would you leave those memories where they are?

As Echoes of Love, the second book in The January Rose Chronicles, prepares to release on June 30th, we sat down with romance author Emily Rose Brlevich to talk about balancing family life and writing, creating rockstar romances, favorite book tropes, music, character inspiration, and the emotional heart behind her stories.

From school pickups and voice memos to tea-fueled writing sessions and original song lyrics, Emily shares an honest look behind the scenes of her writing journey.

1. A Day in the Life Balance

Q: Your bio mentions the beautiful chaos of family life, school runs, and being a brand rep with your daughters. How do you find the quiet moments to slip away into the world of your characters and write?

Emily: This some days, even weeks, can prove extremely difficult. Some days I might only get in half an hour of writing once the housework is done and while I wait for school pickup to arrive.

When things pop into my head and I don't have time to write it into my manuscript, you'll find me scrambling for my phone to either make a voice memo or write it down in my notes until I can get back to my computer.

A lot of the time this happens while I'm shopping or waiting at school pickup. When we have a weekend with nothing planned, which isn't very common, I try to organize an activity or movie for the kids so I can get a little extra time to write or research.

2. The Reality TV Vibe

Q: If the characters from The January Rose Chronicles were forced to go on a reality television show together, which show would it be, and who would win?

Emily: Maybe something like I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!

I think Aries would win because he always seems to be so level-headed in high-stakes situations. But then again, maybe Phoenix would win because he likes to treat everything with a fun attitude and always has a joker side to him.

3. The Glam Factor

Q: As a qualified makeup artist, do you ever find yourself mentally designing the makeup looks or aesthetics for characters like Ariana or Delaney while you're writing them?

Emily: Definitely. I do it all the time and then spend so much time describing them before realizing readers probably don't need a full detailed description.

When writing Ariana's makeup looks, I chose a red lip as her comfort color. For me, it's like body armor and makes me feel powerful, which is exactly what I wanted to portray for Ariana.

4. The Ultimate Romance Mix

Q: If you had to pick romance tropes you'll always auto-buy, what would they be?

Emily: I love a second-chance romance.

I also love bad boy x good girl. My favorite movie is A Walk to Remember and I loved the dynamic between those characters.

I also love a good redemption arc.

And honestly, I have to add one more—the illness trope. If a character is sick and falls in love, I'm there. That trope is my go-to when I need a good cry.

5. The Gateway Book

Q: What was the first book that made you fall in love with reading?

Emily: I don't remember any specific books. I just always remember loving stories.

Growing up, books were always around me. Even now, I still have some of them and have passed them on to my girls.

6. The Comfort Read

Q: What book can you reread forever?

Emily: I've fallen in love with Siena Trap's books during my reading journey and would happily reread them over and over again.

I've recently started rereading them in audiobook format, which is great because I can listen while still following along with the physical book whenever I want.

7. The To-Be-Read Pile

Q: What books are currently waiting on your TBR?

Emily: I'm probably one of the only people in the world who hasn't read the Off-Campus series yet. I know, I know!

They're on my list, along with the Boys of Tommen series and the Chestnut Springs series. Since adaptations are coming, I'd love to read them beforehand.

8. The Soundtrack of Writing

Q: Do you listen to music while writing?

Emily: Surprisingly, no.

When I'm drafting, I usually have a TV show or movie on in the background. Music tends to muddle my thoughts.

When I need songs for my book playlists, I step away from writing and spend time researching songs that fit the mood and characters. Sometimes I'll even look for female covers of songs originally sung by men, or vice versa, depending on the POV character.

I also love that this helps showcase smaller artists trying to make a name for themselves.

9. The Happily Ever After Guarantee

Q: What makes romance your ultimate genre?

Emily: I am a hopeless romantic and I love love.

It sounds corny, but nothing makes me happier than seeing two people in love. I love the warm feeling romance ignites within readers, myself included.

10. From Book One to Book Two

Q: What can readers expect from Echoes of Love?

Emily: Book two dives much deeper into the characters.

Ariana wasn't a huge character in Book One, so readers really get to know her, watch her grow, and see her relationship with Hendrix develop.

Book two also tackles some hard-hitting subjects that artists and rockstars face within the industry, including drugs and alcohol, and how those struggles affect the entire group.

11. The Rockstar Life

Q: What do you enjoy most about writing the contrast between fame and vulnerability?

Emily: The life of a rockstar isn't always sold-out arenas and screaming fans.

Real-life rockstars have quiet, vulnerable moments too, and I wanted to showcase that side of fame. Famous people are still people who deal with things privately, and reminding readers of that is important.

12. Small Towns vs. Big Lights

Q: How much of your own perspective influences Ana's story in Kissing in the Spotlight?

Emily: Honestly, my idea of a small town came mostly from movies.

Australia's version of a small town feels different than the American version. My interpretation was based on imagining what that experience would be like.

13. The Early Spark

Q: Have any of your childhood poems or song lyrics made their way into your books?

Emily: Not directly.

However, I have incorporated my songwriting skills into my books. Every book contains original lyrics.

One of the songs in Melodies of the Heart was actually written with help from my daughter, who wanted to learn about my songwriting process.

Writing lyrics from a character's perspective is much harder than people realize because you're writing from experiences that belong to fictional people rather than yourself.

14. Plotter vs. Pantser

Q: How do you approach a new project?

Emily: I have a document where I outline the characters and plans. I include images of what I think they'll look like and continue adding to it as I write.

I know where I generally want the story to go, but sometimes the characters take me somewhere unexpected and I have to go back and adjust my plans.

I already have ideas written down for a brand-new series once The January Rose Chronicles is complete.

15. The Writing Setup & Routine

Q: What does your writing space look like?

Emily: My desk is currently a fold-out table in my living room, and honestly, it's perfect.

I like having the TV on while I write, and being in the living room makes it easy to write a few lines here and there between chores and taking care of the kids.

I don't really have a set creative time because inspiration shows up whenever it wants to.

16. The Fuel

Q: Coffee, tea, or something else?

Emily: Tea. Always tea.

There is always a cup of tea beside me when I'm writing.

17. The Hardest Part

Q: What comes easiest to you, and what is the most difficult part of writing?

Emily: The hardest part is definitely writing intimate scenes.

I don't want them to be boring, but I also don't want them to feel unrealistic. Since my books aren't dark romances, I don't want those scenes to suddenly feel completely different from the rest of the story.

The easiest part is coming up with plot ideas. I always have a million story ideas running through my head. I also love creating characters.

18. The Cast

Q: If you could spend one day with one of your characters, who would it be?

Emily: That's such a hard choice.

Probably Phoenix. His story hasn't been told yet, but from what readers have seen so far, he's fun, charming, and I know he has a deeper story beneath the surface.

Although honestly, I'd love to spend a day with all of January Rose. Their love of music and brotherhood would be amazing to experience.

19. Writing Healing

Q: Your books tackle trauma, healing, and loyalty. How do you balance those heavier themes with hope and romance?

Emily: I believe everyone deserves a happy ending.

It can be difficult knowing where to draw the line between trauma and romance, but that's part of the art of being a writer.

Book two is definitely heavier emotionally, and I had to make sure those moments remained grounded in contemporary romance without becoming too dark.

Some of the emotions I draw from come from my own experiences. While the events may not have happened to me personally, I use those emotions to help shape what my characters feel.

20. The June 30th Countdown

Q: What does release day look like for you?

Emily: Honestly, it usually feels like a normal day except for the endless butterflies.

My girls are excited for me, but they don't fully understand what publishing a book means. My husband is proud of me, but he's not a reader, so he doesn't quite share the excitement either.

I struggle with celebrating my successes. That probably comes from childhood and never really feeling celebrated for achievements.

It's heartbreaking but honest.

I do usually treat myself to something small, though. A chocolate is always a good choice.

Where to Find Emily Rose Brlevich

🌐 Website: www.emilyrosebrlevichwrites.com

📚 Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/ebrlevichauthor

📖 Pre-Order Echoes of Love: https://amzn.asia/d/09oVspCS

🛒 Previous titles are available through Amazon.

Final Note

In addition to writing her novels, Emily has also taught herself how to create her own character art, which she uses to bring the cast of The January Rose Chronicles to life.

As Echoes of Love approaches its June 30th release, we can't wait to see where the music, romance, and heart of this series take readers next.