Blog Archives
The Complexities of Dating
Kissing Toads follows a woman now in her 50s who shares her journey of looking for her Prince Charming and the journey of self-discovery she wound up on in her quest for true love amid societal expectations. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The book concept was initially inspired by one of my middle-aged girlfriends who, fresh off a divorce, dove headfirst into the online dating scene. As she regaled me with stories of her disastrous dates, I found myself laughing out loud and wanting to tell a similar story.
However, I actually wrote chapter 4, “Nash,” first. I wrote it during the height of the Me Too movement in 2017 or 2018. I never intended to publish it or even share it; I was just reacting to the many stories I was hearing from women all over the country and decided to write a fictional story that represented the ways in which women were treated at that time (late 80s/early 90s) by law enforcement and the society in general. Then, when COVID hit and we were quarantined at home, I found that creative writing became a good way for me to channel my anxiety. I took the Nash story and I built around it.
In a lot of contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Haha. Well, sure. There are definitely trace elements of the real me in this story. However, the main events and characters are fictional. Although, I will admit that here was one part that was 100% accurate. The dogs. My family did have four Golden Retrievers when I was a kid: Toby, Liberty’s Lady Annabelle, Starbelle, and Cooper. There was indeed an oil-on-canvas portrait of Toby (the mutt) hanging in my childhood home, and Annabelle and her pups were allegedly the spawn of President Ford’s dog (albeit, I can offer no proof of it—just my mom’s testimony). On my website, there is a picture of Toby’s portrait as well as a picture of Toby and me in my childhood backyard for anyone who would like to see them. https://www.kissingtoadsnovel.com/
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I really wanted to explore the complexities of dating and finding one’s sexual identity in the late 20th century from a feminist perspective. I wanted my generation, Generation X, to be highlighted and celebrated in a way that I don’t see too often. I also wanted it to be an honest reflection of what it was like to come of age during this time period. So many of these rom-com or coming-of-age novels that I read don’t feel raw or real. I wanted mine to have that sort of authenticity. That’s why I decided to craft it as a fictional memoir.
What is the next book that you’re working on, and when can your fans expect it?
I am about 75% done with my next book called The Station. It is very different than Kissing Toads, however. The Station could be categorized as magical realism or even paranormal literature. It is essentially a story that explores the questions about what happens to us when we die. Like Kissing Toads, it does include moments of humor as well as moments of heartbreak. And yes, there may be a love story embedded in there as well.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
A feminist tale at heart, Kissing Toads is a fictitious memoir that tells the story of a now 50-something-year-old woman named Annie who takes the reader on her decades-long quest to find her “Prince Charming.” Believing that if she kisses enough toads, she will eventually find her prince, Annie has one goal as a budding young woman: fetch herself a man. Set in the late 1970s through the mid-1990s, the reader follows Annie throughout young adulthood as she searches for her soulmate amid the backdrop of misogyny, a loving but overbearing mother, and gender and societal expectations. Sometimes cheeky, sometimes heartbreaking, Kissing Toadsexplores Annie’s messy yet authentic misadventures in dating. But just when you think you’ve reached the happily-ever-after, brace yourself for an exhilarating plot twist. Kissing Toads is not just another coming-of-age tale; it’s a celebration of self-discovery, liberation, and the courage to write your own fairy tale.
Scandalous in Huntington Beach
At Rachel’s funeral, Bennett is dealing with grief and the fact he’s the father of a baby girl—a secret Rachel had kept hidden—when he meets Emma, the baby’s aunt. Overwhelmed by the sudden reality of fatherhood, Bennett invites Emma to stay, hoping she can help him navigate this uncharted chapter of his life. As they care for Madelynn together, an undeniable connection begins to form. Emma’s striking resemblance to Rachel stirs complex emotions in Bennett, leaving him torn between guilt, attraction, and the fragile hope for a second chance at love.
Scandalous in Huntington Beach explores the intersection of grief, responsibility, and the unexpected possibilities of love. Melody DeBlois masterfully crafts a poignant narrative that brings together two individuals united by loss and bound by the care of an innocent child. Bennett’s journey from anguish to acceptance, and Emma’s quiet strength, form the emotional backbone of this deeply compelling story. DeBlois showcases her talent for capturing raw, nuanced emotions, blending tender moments with the ache of unresolved loss. Through her vivid prose, readers are drawn into Bennett and Emma’s evolving relationship. Each scene unfolds with sensory richness, immersing readers in the weight of their shared struggles and the hesitant vulnerability that defines their connection. The dialogue is subtle yet impactful, revealing layers of emotion as they work through their grief while prioritizing Madelynn’s well-being. This romance drama excels in balancing emotional depth with a captivating narrative flow. Themes of resilience, healing, and the complexities of new beginnings are woven seamlessly throughout. DeBlois avoids clichés, instead delivering a heartfelt and authentic exploration of love born from the ashes of loss.
Perfect for a cozy winter afternoon, Scandalous in Huntington Beach offers a deeply moving tale of love, grief, and renewal. Fans of emotionally rich, character-driven romance will find themselves hooked from the very first page. Melody DeBlois has created a beautifully tender story that lingers long after the final chapter—a must-read for anyone seeking warmth and depth in their romantic fiction.
Pages: 294 | ASIN : B0DM2NPJBR
Tapestry
Tapestry is an intricate, multi-generational tale that weaves together the stories of women who have been marginalized and oppressed but are fiercely resilient. Set against the backdrop of historical periods where patriarchy, sexism, and injustice reigned supreme, the book tells the stories of women like Aida and Rosalie, whose lives were marked by pain but also by fortitude and wisdom. At its core, the book is a tribute to the strength of ancestral female wisdom and the persistence of the human spirit.
What struck me immediately was the rawness of the storytelling. There’s something visceral in how the author portrays Aida’s life in the 1700s. The imagery of her as a child left to survive in a pigpen, later abused, and sold, but ultimately rising to become a healer, was both heartbreaking and triumphant. The writing captures not just the brutality of her circumstances, but also her inner strength and resilience, particularly when she delivers babies and saves lives with her herbal knowledge.
While the stories are compelling, the pacing in some sections, like Petra’s story in the convent, was slower and more introspective, while other parts, such as the vivid descriptions of Rosalie’s journey on the convict ship, were packed with action and emotion. The lengthy descriptions and heavy use of historical context sometimes pulled me out of the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys. I would’ve loved more balance between the historical backdrop and the intimate personal moments that define these women’s lives.
Another standout element is how the book dives into themes of female solidarity. The interactions between Aida, Ursula, and the group of women they eventually join in the woods felt empowering. These women, despite being rejected by society, form their own community, sharing knowledge and supporting one another. That part of the book, to me, was a beautiful ode to the strength of women when they come together. The detailed descriptions of the forest life, the food they gather, and the herbal remedies they concocted made these scenes feel rich and alive.
Tapestry is a bold and sweeping story that showcases the harsh realities faced by women throughout history but also their incredible resilience and ability to thrive despite it all. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fiction with deep emotional depth and a strong focus on female empowerment.
Pages: 242
The Third Estate Secrets of the Manor
The Third Estate Secrets of the Manor by author D.R. Berlin plunges readers into the high-stakes world of Kai Lovac, a man with a mission and a past shrouded in mystery. Lovac’s meticulously planned assignments often lead him into the depths of danger, and this tale is no different. The narrative weaves through Lovac’s intense journey, peppered with unforeseen complications and an ever-looming threat, culminating in a gripping exploration of trust, betrayal, and survival.
From the outset, the book gripped me with its intense and fast-paced opening chapter. Kai Lovac’s precision and calculated nature are vividly portrayed as he navigates through various obstacles, each described with meticulous detail that immerses the reader in his world. The writing is sharp and engaging, capturing Lovac’s heightened awareness and strategic mind. The descriptions of his environment and the people he encounters are vivid and precise, creating a clear picture of his meticulous nature and the high stakes of his mission. The character of Cadet Sophie Allard introduces a contrasting perspective. Her determination and passion for flying, despite the challenges she faces, add depth to the narrative. Her journey from a research lab to the cockpit of a fighter jet is inspiring and relatable, showcasing her resilience and unwavering focus on her goals. The detailed depiction of her flight experiences, particularly the turbulence she faces and overcomes, highlights her strength and tenacity. Sophie’s interactions with her peers, especially Parker Worthington, add an emotional layer to the story, enriching the plot with themes of camaraderie and personal growth. The inclusion of the Grey Lady adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to the narrative. Her authoritative and enigmatic presence introduces a subplot filled with suspense and covert operations. Her interactions and the missions she orchestrates reveal a darker side of the story, creating a multifaceted plot that keeps the reader guessing. The contrast between her calculated demeanor and the high-stakes, emotionally charged missions of Lovac and Allard provides a dynamic and captivating reading experience.
The Third Estate Secrets of the Manor is a riveting read that combines intense action, well-developed characters, and intricate subplots. The book is perfect for readers who enjoy thrillers filled with suspense, strategic maneuvers, and a touch of emotional depth. The writing is crisp and engaging, ensuring that readers remain hooked from the first page to the last.
Pages: 279
New Tomorrows: Love – Courage – Hope
New Tomorrows: Love – Courage – Hope, by Ann Heap, is a heartwarming tale of love, resilience, and community. Jon and Allie, both recovering from the trauma of 9/11, cross paths almost a decade later in the Virginia Appalachian Mountains. As their feelings for each other grow, they must overcome numerous obstacles before they can fully commit. This story is not just about two individuals finding love; it also chronicles the efforts of Jon, Allie, and the Hidden Valley residents as they create a domestic abuse advocacy program and shelter.
Charming, quaint, endearing, and peaceful are just a few words to describe this lovely book. The clean, slow-burn romance between Jon and Allie and the evolving sense of community among the Hidden Valley residents offer much to adore and revel in. Heap’s writing style is particularly noteworthy. Her vivid imagery immerses the reader in the story, making it come to life. In the opening crash scene, for instance, the disorienting yet eerily calm emotions Allie experiences are palpable, as if watching a movie unfold. The dialogue is another strong point, characterized by a realistic quality that avoids the overly sentimental tone often found in clean romance stories. Interactions between characters feel authentic, whether in simple morning conversations or in the sharing of thought-provoking memories. Heap skillfully captures the essence of human interaction. The pacing of New Tomorrows is also commendable. While the romance develops slowly, the story itself moves at a well-measured pace. Every word is carefully chosen, contributing to a smoothly flowing narrative.
If you are looking for a novel filled with heart and hope, New Tomorrows: Love – Courage – Hope, by Ann Heap, is a fantastic, cozy, and entertaining read. It is highly recommended and well-deserving of a spot on your TBR list.
Pages: 286 | ASIN : B0CHLFXCT8
All The What-Ifs
All The What-Ifs, by T. A. Reese, intertwines elements of suspense and romance within its contemporary fiction framework. The protagonist, Mae, reevaluates her life and past decisions as she finalizes her divorce from an abusive marriage of five years. Seeking a fresh start, she returns to her childhood home in Eldrock, where she reconnects with her first love, Miles. This reunion sparks a journey towards self-discovery and happiness. However, her newfound peace is threatened when her ex-husband, Judson, follows her to Eldrock, determined to uphold their marital vows to any extreme.
Reese’s narrative style is captivating, maintaining engagement with a balanced pace throughout the novel. In her debut work, she effectively conveys themes of hope, renewal, and the importance of self-forgiveness. Particularly compelling is the use of first-person perspective, which provides a deep dive into Mae’s internal conflicts and growth. The inclusion of detailed flashbacks serves as a poignant method to explore Mae’s traumatic past without depicting real-time abuse, adding a layer of sensitivity to the storytelling. While Mae’s journey is thoroughly explored, I feel the novel leaves readers eager for more details about her life after the pivotal second encounter with Judson. This anticipation speaks to the engrossing nature of Mae’s story and the readers’ investment in her character. I believe extending the narrative to offer a deeper glimpse into her post-conflict experiences could enrich the resolution, providing a more rounded and satisfying exploration of her newfound stability and growth.
All The What-Ifs is a promising debut that successfully delves into the complexities of revisiting old wounds and the challenging path toward healing and empowerment and is a highly recommended read for anyone looking for an uplifting tale laced with the perfect blend of suspense and romance.
Pages: 140 | ASIN : B0CSV9T24P
LITERARY TITAN 