Blog Archives
Surprising Directions
Sweet Ridge Hearts follows a New York marketing executive whose boyfriend steals her idea and promotion, leading her to move in with her cousin in a small town, where she rediscovers herself and finds a new chance at love. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted to show how the big, city life isn’t always what it’s hyped up to be. I also wanted to thread a story for Katy and Christine, so Christine could have her happily-ever-after too. Christine had already fallen in love in Book One, but I needed to resolve the long-distance relationship. So, that’s when I created Katy, her cousin, who embarks on her own journey in the small town of Maple Ridge and became my protagonist.
I enjoyed the romantic relationship between Katy and Derek; it is not a whirlwind passion-filled fling, but rather a slow-building and relatable connection. How did their relationship develop while you were writing it? Did you have an idea of where you wanted to take it, or was it organic?
I knew they both had to grow and evolve in order to be open to a new relationship. I knew what their flaws were and had some ideas of how they would work together, but often things appear organically. That’s what I love about writing—the way characters can take the writer in surprising directions.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My dad was a Vet, and I wanted to show how we need to support our troops better when they return home with PTSD. I wanted to show his healing process. And for Katy, I wanted to encourage readers to follow their dreams, even when it’s scary to face our fears in doing so. I’m a big believer that dreams do come true.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
My next book is another small-town, sweet romance being published by The Wild Rose Press, called Forever Kind of Love. We are in the editing trenches now and don’t have a release date yet. I imagine it will be the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Yet even in country-quiet Maple Ridge, Katy’s skills can be useful, and she’s prepared to jump in to help Christine win a competition for her Sweet Ridge Bakery. What she’s not prepared for is handsome bakery manager Derek Higgins.
A veteran dealing with the aftermath of PTSD, Derek is a lone wolf, and he likes it that way. Being forced to work with a spirited businesswoman and her healthy ego is a challenge every step of the way. But the stakes are too high for him to give up helping his boss.
As the competition heats up, so does the chemistry with Katy—until she’s offered a new job in another city. Now she has to decide whether to take a risk and start her own company, or become the creative director of a new, successful firm, which is everything she ever wanted. At the same time, Derek must face his own issues when personal tragedy wraps him in survivor’s guilt, leaving him unable to forgive himself for past actions.
While Derek seeks to heal the wounds of a haunting past, and Katy searches for the courage to face her fears and forge a new path, what will become of their relationship?
Sweet Ridge Hearts
In Sweet Ridge Hearts, Susan Bagby crafts a warm and heartfelt tale about second chances, personal growth, and rediscovering what truly matters. The story follows Katy Flanagan, a New York marketing executive whose ambition is stymied when her idea is stolen and her promotion handed to her boyfriend, who then breaks up with her for professional reasons. Disillusioned and raw, Katy escapes to the cozy town of Maple Ridge to stay with her cousin Christine. What follows is a touching journey of healing, love, and self-discovery as Katy gets involved with Christine’s thriving bakery business, meets new friends (and a certain handsome veteran named Derek), and begins to see that life’s sweetest rewards often come from unexpected places.
I didn’t expect to get so emotionally tangled up in Katy’s story, but Bagby’s writing pulled me in from the start. The dialogue felt real, like listening to people I know. Katy’s frustrations at work, her heartbreak, even her stubbornness, all rang true. I found myself nodding when she stood up for herself, and I felt every sting of betrayal she faced in those early chapters. Bagby has a knack for painting a scene so vividly. Her style is clean, never stuffy, with plenty of down-to-earth charm that makes you forget you’re reading fiction. The plot may follow familiar beats, but the emotion behind each moment is fresh.
What really stayed with me, though, was the book’s heart. This isn’t just a romance, it’s about finding your footing when everything you thought you wanted falls apart. Katy doesn’t just swap the city for the country and magically find love. She works through her own mess. She grows. And Derek is not your typical brooding hero. He’s quiet, strong, layered with past pain, and gently healing alongside Katy. The themes of redemption, trust, and building something lasting—whether it’s a career or a relationship—really resonated with me. There’s a sense of community and purpose woven throughout that gave the story its soul.
I recommend Sweet Ridge Hearts to anyone craving a feel-good, heartfelt read with depth. If you’re tired of flashy romances and want something real, with characters who mess up, grow, and try again, this book’s for you. It’s perfect for curling up on a cold weekend, letting it tug at your heartstrings, and walking away feeling a little more hopeful.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0DJ9WLBD4
Love and Trust
Walking by Your House follows a man struggling to express himself to a woman he has feelings for who keeps trying new ideas hoping to catch her interest and win her heart. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Much of this part of the story was developed from my own and my friends’ adolescent experiences. I also interviewed some teenagers in my community and found that fifty years later, similar problems occur with similar results. Those experiences provided the basic framework for the story.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
It was important for both main characters to have strong religious beliefs. I wanted both to have an air of innocence and commitment to purity. Emma has a much stronger commitment to family, including extended family. Alan has perseverance, dedication to hard work, and being a good provider.
What were the themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The most important theme in this book was trust. At times, it was tempting for Alan and Emma to lose trust in one another. They experienced similar issues with their friends. Unconditional love was another theme. Can you continue to love and trust someone when the world is crashing around you? Finally, a husband and wife’s need to support and help one another in difficult circumstances is essential in marriage.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Walking by Your House is the second story in the Finding Love in the Heartland series, each a standalone tale. The next book is Blue Jeans and Lavender Gowns, which will be published in May 2025. It will examine domestic violence, forgiveness, and second chances.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Follow Alan’s misadventures as he struggles to find a way to say the things a girl wants to hear.
Alan embarks on a topsy-turvy, humorous journey filled with mistakes, pitfalls, disappointments, and laughter.
One moment, he stammers and flees from her presence. Next, he thinks shooting basketball with a girl is the key. You will feel his pain as he fails again and again.
Finally, Alan comes up with a strategy he hopes will allow him to succeed over his rivals.
You will enjoy this humorous, charming romance as Alan faces life’s struggles, experiencing laughter, surprises, drama, love, and faith.
Walking By Your House tells the story of an inept and socially awkward boy growing into manhood and the girl who ultimately accompanies him on that journey. But is he mature enough, and is their love strong enough, to sustain them when their world is torn apart?
Men In Books Aren’t Better
Men in Books Aren’t Better, by Amanda Nelson and Lisa-Marie Potter, kicks off with Molly, a thriller author in a creative rut, who embarks on an unusual quest: hiring an escort to inspire her switch to writing romantic comedies. Molly’s skepticism toward conventional romance, coupled with her career-driven desperation, leads her to Jared Washington, a professional companion with charm, wit, and an uncanny ability to challenge her cynicism. Their encounter is both a humorous and heartfelt exploration of vulnerability, love, and personal growth.
The book’s writing is a delightful mix of sass and sentiment. Nelson and Potter’s prose sparkles with witty dialogue that feels as if you’re eavesdropping on real-life banter. Molly’s self-deprecating humor and Jared’s dry wit create an entertaining dynamic. One of my favorite moments is when Molly, in all her stubborn brilliance, searches for synonyms for “escort” to avoid the stigma leading her to the hilariously titled “Plus One Companion Agency.” The authors’ ability to inject levity into Molly’s personal turmoil is refreshing, and it makes her a protagonist you want to root for, flaws and all.
While the premise is quirky and fun, the book’s deeper strength lies in its exploration of human vulnerability. Molly’s struggle to move on from a broken engagement and Jared’s jaded view of relationships add layers of realism. A standout scene is Molly’s internal debate about her expectations for Jared—balancing professional respect with undeniable attraction. It’s a testament to Nelson and Potter’s skill that these emotional beats feel organic, never forced. The “meet-cute” via video chat is a pivotal moment with its charming awkwardness and genuine sparks between the characters. Jared’s playful challenge to Molly’s aversion to romance (and his wariness of the ocean due to sharks) had me smiling like a fool.
Men in Books Aren’t Better solidifies itself as a modern rom-com gem. It’s perfect for readers who love a balance of humor and heartfelt moments, especially those who appreciate protagonists grappling with real-life messiness. Fans of Emily Henry or Sophie Kinsella will feel right at home. I’d recommend this book to anyone in need of a warm, witty reminder that love—both on and off the page—can be unexpectedly transformative.
Pages: 328 | ASIN : B0DH8H2WRB
Till Tomorrow Never Comes
Till Tomorrow Never Comes by A W Anthony presents a thought-provoking and introspective narrative centered around Kurt Kellerman, a sixty-five-year-old man confronted with a life-altering cancer diagnosis. Despite what appears to be a fulfilling life, complete with loving children and a devoted wife, Kurt’s initial acceptance of his fate hides something much deeper. As the story unfolds, readers are transported back to the 1970s, where the author skillfully peels back layers of Kurt’s past to reveal the truths he has long concealed.
Anthony dives into complex themes—belief systems, the impact of religion, interdenominational relationships, love, and the weight of life-altering decisions. The narrative underscores how parental influence can shape a child’s entire future, a message that resonates throughout Kurt’s journey. The exploration of these ideas feels authentic and profound, giving readers plenty to ponder. Set against a backdrop of the past, the book brims with nostalgia. Details like pay phones and handwritten letters evoke a simpler era, adding a sense of longing and charm that enriches the narrative. These elements create a vivid atmosphere, inviting readers to reflect on how times have changed while grounding Kurt’s story in a tangible reality. While the book tackles compelling subjects, there were moments where I struggled to connect with Kurt as a character. His decisions during his college years occasionally felt perplexing, making it difficult to fully understand or empathize with his journey. Yet, the novel’s imperfections don’t overshadow its strengths. The richness of the themes and the depth of character analysis offer readers an opportunity for meaningful reflection.
Till Tomorrow Never Comes may not resonate with everyone, it holds undeniable value for those interested in drama-infused narratives or fiction that delves into religious and existential themes. Anthony’s exploration of human complexity and the impact of our choices makes this a thoughtful and engaging read for those drawn to stories that grapple with life’s most profound questions.
Pages: 220 | ASIN : B0DK617KN5
Kiss Of The Bionic Mermaid
Kiss of The Bionic Mermaid, by Leslie Dacapo, is a futuristic love story set in the enchanting mermaid-themed amusement park, Realms of Neptune. The story takes an intriguing turn when successful businessman Obsidian Hayes acquires ownership of the park, causing a stir among its employees. The novel delves into the unique Mer community, a close-knit group of men and women who use bionic mermaid tails to perform captivating mermaid acts at the park. At the heart of the story is Janna Hayes, a stunning performer known by her mersona, Mermaid Aramere. When Janna and Obsidian meet, their mutual attraction ignites a passionate romance.
Leslie Dacapo skillfully blends science fiction with romance in this light-hearted tale. His imaginative portrayal of the mermaid community and the futuristic world is both convincing and engaging. The creative concepts around the bionic mermaids add a refreshing twist to the narrative. Dacapo’s writing and plot provide a delightful take on the romance genre. The story offers a fresh perspective, which is a welcome change. I feel that enhancing the character development of the main protagonists would add an extra layer of depth to the already engaging story.
While the plot follows a somewhat predictable path typical of romance novels, it is a format that will undoubtedly appeal to many readers. I believe readers seeking a more complex storyline might find it a bit straightforward. Nonetheless, Dacapo excels in bringing his vision to life, making the story a pleasant and heartwarming read. The ending is particularly satisfying, leaving readers with a sense of warmth and enjoyment.
Kiss of The Bionic Mermaid is highly recommended for fans of the romance genre, especially those with an interest in light science fiction. The novel’s blend of imaginative settings, romantic tension, and a touch of futuristic flair ensures an enjoyable reading experience. For anyone looking to escape into a world where love and innovation intertwine, this book is a perfect choice.
Pages: 265 | ASIN : B0CW1GZXZN
The Intricacies of Relationships
The Story of Josette and Daniel follows the lives of a couple who meet at Juilliard and the path their lives take both apart and back together again. Where did the idea for this trilogy come from, and how did it develop over time?
The idea for The Story of Josette and Daniel Trilogy began as a seed when I was just 17, sparked by the initial creation of the first three chapters of Josette. However, as life unfolded and presented its twists and turns, the trilogy took shape gradually, with the completion of Book 1, Josette, during the pandemic serving as a pivotal moment. The encouragement and curiosity of my readers further fueled the development, leading to the creation of Book 2, delving deeper into Daniel’s character and perspective. Book 3 emerged as the culmination of their love story, spanning four decades and exploring the enduring nature of their connection amidst life’s trials and triumphs.
What was the inspiration for the love story and the connection the characters have?
The inspiration for the love story between Josette and Daniel stemmed from a desire to capture the essence of a timeless and profound connection. Their relationship was crafted to reflect the complexities of human emotions, the power of shared experiences, and the resilience of love across time. Drawing from personal experiences and observations of enduring relationships, I sought to imbue their connection with authenticity, depth, and relatability, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in their journey.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Several themes were integral to The Story of Josette and Daniel Trilogy, reflecting the broader human experience and the intricacies of relationships. Love, of course, was central, explored in its various forms and manifestations, from the initial spark of attraction to the enduring bond forged over decades. Themes of loss and grief added depth to the narrative, highlighting the profound impact of separation and the journey towards healing. Additionally, themes of personal growth, resilience, and the passage of time were woven throughout, resonating with readers on a universal level and prompting reflection on their own lives and relationships.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Looking ahead, my next project, The KEAK Anthology, Volume 2, continues the exploration of storytelling but in a different format. This collection of short stories offers a diverse range of narratives, each encapsulating unique themes, characters, and emotions. It is an opportunity to delve into new worlds, explore different genres, and connect with readers in fresh and unexpected ways. Stay tuned for its release, where I hope to continue captivating and engaging audiences with the power of storytelling.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In the embrace of falling snow, Josette, now seated by the window in her cherished chair, is transported back to a moment etched in time—when she, at 25, returned from a triumphant global piano tour to the comforting blanket of snow outside her childhood home.
Josette and Daniel’s serendipitous meeting at The Juilliard School unfolds into a transformative love story. Through shared laughter and profound connection, they became each other’s anchors. Parting ways after Josette’s graduation did not sever their bond; instead, it led to a rekindling of their love in later years.
As life’s seasons unfolded, Josette and Daniel embraced retirement and the pursuit of their passions. Their shared journey witnessed the growth of family, the pursuit of dreams, and the gentle passage of time. Graciously aging together, they reveled in the joys of children and grandchildren.
Now, with snow falling outside her window once again, Josette sits alone, reminiscing. Her beloved Daniel is gone, leaving behind echoes of a lifetime filled with love and cherished memories. The gentle snowfall becomes a bittersweet reminder of a love that transcends time, forever etched in her heart.
The Story of Josette and Daniel: A Contemporary Sweet Romance Trilogy
Dr. Katherine E. A. Korkidis’ The Story of Josette and Daniel: A Contemporary Sweet Romance Trilogy offers a captivating contemporary romance journey through the stages of life and love. Josette beautifully captures a young girl’s resilience and discovery of her musical talents, leading her to New York and into a complicated but heartfelt romance with her instructor, Daniel. This story of love and overcoming adversity resonates deeply.
In Daniel, the focus shifts to the life of Daniel Ellington, whose early life of privilege contrasts with emotional complexities. His intricate relationship with Josette, set against his own personal struggles and a loveless marriage, paints a rich tapestry of human emotions and choices.
The trilogy culminates with Josette and Daniel, a story that beautifully ties together themes of love, redemption, and personal growth. Their married life, filled with both challenges and triumphs, is a moving portrayal of commitment and the power of love to heal and transform lives.
The trilogy’s vivid settings and engaging character arcs, along with a glimpse into high-society life, add a layer of elegance and fascination. The narrative style, with its straightforward exposition, offers a clear and accessible reading experience, while the inclusion of detailed cultural elements adds depth and authenticity to the story. The character development throughout the trilogy is thoughtful and nuanced, offering readers characters that, while near-perfect, embody aspirational qualities that inspire. This, combined with the potential for further narrative refinement, suggests that with minor adjustments, the trilogy could offer an even more immersive and emotionally rich experience. This trilogy is a delightful and sophisticated romance that skillfully intertwines emotional depth with the allure of luxury and intrigue. Its heartfelt storytelling and memorable characters make it a standout in contemporary romance literature.
Dr. Katherine E. A. Korkidis’ trilogy is a beautifully woven narrative of love, resilience, and transformation. It skillfully captures the essence of contemporary romance, blending rich settings with complex characters to create a deeply engaging and memorable reading experience.
Pages: 698 | ASIN : B0C7XRFCYF
LITERARY TITAN 