AUTHOR MEET & GREET | BOOK SIGNING | & AUTHOR DISCUSSIONS
calling all writers… Join me for ‘Plot it, plan it, crush it’ where I talk about how to get organized, stay on track, and finally finish your novel!
Saturday, June 21st from 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Blue Apple Books (14 Main Street, Suite B, Madison, AL)
Let’s be honest — writing a book is hard enough, but getting it into readers’ hands can feel like an entirely different mountain to climb, especially when you don’t have a big marketing budget. The good news? Some of the best book marketing strategies don’t require breaking the bank. Whether you’re launching your debut or trying to breathe new life into your backlist, there are plenty of creative, affordable ways to promote your work.
Here are some free (or nearly free) strategies every indie author should have in their toolkit:
You don’t need to be everywhere, but you do need to be somewhere. Pick one or two platforms where your readers hang out and show up consistently. Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter (or X… we’re all still figuring that out), focus on sharing a mix of:
Pro Tip: Use free tools like Canva to create eye-catching graphics, teaser images, and quote cards.
Austin discovered, at the young age of ten, that fairies aren’t exactly what the fairytales made them out to be and that blood tastes a lot like honey. Now, as an adult, he struggles to balance his public life with the one he’s so desperate to keep hidden. After a deadly camping trip and an unexpected connection, Austin tries to change his ways. Will he be able to keep his secret or will his world come undone? In this exciting interactive adventure, the body count is up to you. Are you ready?
Your email list is gold. These are readers who want to hear from you. Start building your list by offering a free short story, novella, or sneak peek of your work in exchange for an email address.
Free tools to get started:
Send updates, exclusive content, and book announcements directly to your readers’ inboxes.
Cross-promotion is one of the smartest (and free) ways to expand your reach. Team up with authors in your genre for:
Not only does it widen your audience, but it also fosters a sense of community in a sometimes-lonely indie world.
Reach new readers by offering to write guest posts or author interviews for book bloggers and indie author sites. Most are happy to feature fellow writers, especially if you pitch a fun or informative topic.
Ideas for guest posts:
Bonus: It usually comes with a link back to your book! IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN GUEST POSTING ON MY BLOG, CLICK HERE!
Celeste epitomizes high school success: top grades, head cheerleader, even dating the star quarterback. Life couldn’t be better with a picture-perfect family and college on the horizon. But as she drifts off to sleep on the eve of her 17th birthday, Celeste never fathoms waking up over 1,000 years in the future.
Transported to a world both unfamiliar and strangely linked to her own, Celeste discovers she’s the heir to a royal lineage and her mother is a long-lost princess. Yet as secrets unravel and familial rifts emerge, the once harmonious facade of her family begins to splinter.
Navigating impossible choices, Celeste’s journey becomes a quest for self-discovery and strength. In the chaos, she discovers the power within her identity, the importance of family, and the treasures of genuine friendships. Embark on Celeste’s journey as she boldly faces the mysteries ahead, shaping her fate with courage and unwavering determination.
You don’t need a fancy setup — just your phone and good lighting. Readers love getting to know the person behind the book. Record short videos about:
Post them on Instagram Reels, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts.
Get involved in Goodreads groups, Facebook book clubs, or Discord communities related to your genre. Important: Don’t just drop your links — be a genuine part of the conversation, offer recommendations, and talk about books you love.
When people get to know you, they’ll naturally want to check out your work.
Temporarily dropping your eBook price or offering it for free for a limited time can boost downloads and reviews. Pair it with a social media push or email newsletter blast.
Free promo sites to submit your deals to:
(They often have free or low-cost options.)
Make your marketing materials pop with free graphic design tools. Canva is my go-to for everything from social media posts to book mockups and promotional banners.
Other free tools worth trying:
Marketing as an indie author doesn’t have to drain your wallet. It’s about consistency, creativity, and finding authentic ways to connect with your readers. Start small, test what works, and have fun experimenting along the way. The indie author community is one of the most supportive out there — so lean into it and lift each other up.
Got a favorite free or budget-friendly marketing trick? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
Hey there, book lovers! Today, I’m sharing a special list of hidden indie gems — books that have captured the heart of readers and deserve way more hype. These stories have fantastic characters, compelling plots, and unique worlds that indie authors have poured their souls into. Plus, I’m including one from my own paranormal series because it seems I sneak under the radar with readers!
A hauntingly beautiful novel filled with lyrical prose and emotional depth. Ashley’s storytelling weaves mystery and family secrets into a tapestry you won’t want to put down.
If you love gritty fantasy mixed with Western vibes, this one’s for you. It blends genre lines in a way that feels fresh and original.
Rachel brings magic to modern urban fantasy in a way that’s both thrilling and heartfelt. This first book in the DFZ Changeling series is a fantastic start to a captivating world.
Dive into dark fantasy romance with rich world-building and unforgettable characters. Carissa’s writing pulls you into a beautifully dangerous world.
A YA novel that combines BMX biking and self-discovery, perfect for readers who enjoy stories about passion and personal growth.
My Blood Angel series is a paranormal urban fantasy journey into a world where vampires, witches, and supernatural forces clash in shadowy battles. With intense action, complex characters, and a twist on vampire lore, it’s a series close to my heart. If you love paranormal stories with a fresh voice and a bit of grit, this one might just surprise you!
Thanks for stopping by and exploring these underrated indie reads with me. If you pick any up, I’d love to hear what you think! And if you have any hidden gems of your own, please share — I’m always on the lookout for my next favorite book.
Happy reading!
— Nina
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Where is Julie Morgan?
by Linda Griffin
Genre: Mystery, Police Procedural
In the small Maryland town of Morgan’s Landing, fourteen-year-old Julie Morgan is living in comfort with her wealthy family. She disappears on her way to school after a spat with her twin sister.
Detective Jim Brady, married and the father of two, has been on the Morgan’s Landing police force for twelve years. He identifies a few suspects in the girl’s disappearance—Is it the fired school janitor, a paroled sex offender, Julie’s computer teacher…or his own teenage son? Jim can’t believe his son could be involved, but his wife is convinced the boy is hiding something.
He needs to find Julie before the worst happens—and keep the peace at home.
“Morgan’s Landing is a fast-paced, unpredictable mystery you’ll devour in a single sitting.”
~ Indies Today
Amazon * Apple * B&N * Google * Kobo * Audible * Bookbub * Goodreads
I was born and raised in San Diego, California and earned a BA in English from San Diego State University and an MLS from UCLA. I began my career as a reference and collection development librarian in the Art and Music Section of the San Diego Public Library and then transferred to the Literature and Languages Section, where I had the pleasure of managing the Central Library’s Fiction collection. Although I also enjoy reading biography, memoir, and history, fiction remains my first love. In addition to the three R’s—reading, writing, and research—I enjoy Scrabble, movies, and travel.
My earliest ambition was to be a “book maker” and I wrote my first story, “Judy and the Fairies,” with a plot stolen from a comic book, at the age of six. I broke into print in college with a story in the San Diego State University literary journal, The Phoenix, but most of my magazine publications came after I left the library to spend more time on my writing.
My stories have been published in numerous journals, including Eclectica, Thema Literary Journal, Avalon Literary Review, The Nassau Review, and Orbis, and in the anthologies Short Story America, Vol. 2, The Captive and the Dead, Australia Burns, 2023 in a Flash, and Apocalypse.
Member of the Authors Guild and Sisters in Crime
Website * Facebook * X * Instagram * Bluesky * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads
Would you like a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card? Follow the blitz HERE for special content and a giveaway!
By a Wife, Mom, Fiction Writer, and Real Estate Agent Who’s Just Trying to Breathe
There are days when I look at my to-do list and feel the tears sting before I even get out of bed. I’m a wife. I’m a mom. I’m a fiction writer. And I’m a real estate agent who hustles 24/7 in a business that rarely sleeps. Somewhere in the mix, I’m also a woman who keeps forgetting to take care of herself. And some days—maybe today—I just want to give up.
Not because I don’t love my family. Not because I’m not grateful for my clients or the opportunity to tell stories. But because the sheer volume of it all feels like a tidal wave crashing over me. Over and over again.
The mom guilt is real. Over the years I have missed the school assemblies, or I’m answering a client call during dinner. I’m thinking about an upcoming showing while my child just needs to talk. And don’t even get me started on the guilt of screen time when I just need a moment to breathe or send a contract.
And then there’s the emotional math I do constantly—“If I work a little more tonight, maybe I can take Saturday off…” But Saturday comes and someone wants to see a house. Or something falls apart in escrow. Or I just can’t ignore the buzzing of my phone. Again.
Somewhere between the showings, the open houses, the packing lunches, the editing/writing deadlines I never meet, I stopped taking care of myself. I skip meals. I run on caffeine and adrenaline. My writing? It waits in the shadows, a dusty notebook or half-open document that aches for attention but never quite gets it. That hurts the most. Because writing is the piece of me that feels like me. And she’s the one I abandon first when life gets busy.
I’ll be honest: sometimes it feels like everything I do is for everyone else. Clients. Kids. My spouse. I show up, smile, problem-solve, negotiate, fix, drive, cook, clean—and then collapse. But rarely do I pause and ask myself: Am I okay?
Real estate doesn’t come with predictability. You can do everything right, and the deal still falls through. A client can change their mind. A buyer can ghost. A seller can panic. And in the meantime, your child spikes a fever, your spouse is working late, and your characters are still sitting in chapter six, waiting for you to bring them to life.
It’s chaos. And it’s hard to admit you’re drowning when your job requires you to be the calm in everyone else’s storm.
So what do I do when it’s all too much? When the plates I’m spinning start crashing to the floor?
Here’s what I’m learning—sometimes painfully slowly:
Some days, the only thing I accomplish is keeping everyone alive. Some days, I close a deal, make dinner, and write a paragraph I actually like. But every day, I’m learning to show myself more grace. To stop chasing perfection and instead chase peace.
If you’re in the thick of it too—if you’re a mom, a partner, a worker, a dreamer—just know this: you are not alone. You’re not failing. You’re carrying a lot. And it’s okay to feel like it’s too much.
Just don’t give up. Pause. Rest. Refill. Cry if you need to. Then take the next small step. Not for the world. Not even for your family. But for you.
Because you’re worth saving, too.
As an aspiring author, the dream of seeing your name on a published book is both exciting and daunting. But for many, the challenge isn’t coming up with ideas or having the passion to write—it’s finding the time. Between work commitments and family responsibilities, carving out space for writing often feels like an impossible task. The reality is, you don’t have to quit your job or put your family on hold to become a writer. It’s all about creating a balance that allows you to nurture your creative side without neglecting your professional and personal life.
Here are some practical tips on how to find time to write, even when you’re juggling a busy career and a family.
Whether you have a full office or a small corner in your home, creating a designated space for writing can mentally prepare you to be productive. This space doesn’t need to be elaborate—just a spot where you can set aside distractions and immerse yourself in your writing.
Why it helps: A dedicated writing space helps you mentally switch gears and signals to your brain that it’s time to focus on your writing. It also creates a physical separation between work and writing, which can be particularly helpful when you have multiple responsibilities at home.
Tip: If you’re short on space, try using noise-cancelling headphones or setting up a small, portable desk. Even a corner of your kitchen table can become a creative zone when you treat it as such.
If you’re struggling to find time to write, start scheduling it into your day just like any other important task. This may mean setting aside 15 to 30 minutes in the morning before your family wakes up or during your lunch break at work. The key is to carve out regular blocks of time that are non-negotiable.
Why it helps: When you treat your writing time with the same level of importance as a work meeting or family obligation, you are more likely to honor that time and make it a priority.
Tip: Use a planner or digital calendar to block out writing time. Make it a recurring event in your schedule, so it becomes a regular part of your day, not just something that happens “when you have time.”
Trying to write an entire novel in a month while working full-time and caring for a family is an unrealistic expectation for most people. Instead, set achievable, incremental goals that align with your schedule. Writing 500 words a day may not sound like much, but over time, it adds up.
Why it helps: Realistic goals help reduce feelings of overwhelm. By breaking down your larger writing project into manageable chunks, you create a sense of progress and momentum, which keeps you motivated.
Tip: Focus on small, tangible milestones, such as writing a chapter a week or completing a set number of pages each day. If you’re working on a longer project, consider setting deadlines for key events or scenes within the book to keep you on track.
Not every writing session needs to be a lengthy, focused marathon. In fact, writing in small, concentrated bursts may actually help you be more productive. Whether it’s 10 minutes between meetings or 30 minutes before bed, seize the time you do have.
Why it helps: Writing in shorter sessions may feel more doable, especially on days when your schedule is packed. You might be surprised by how much you can accomplish in a short period, and those small moments can add up over time.
Tip: Keep a notebook or your phone’s notes app handy for those quick bursts of inspiration. Write during your lunch break, while waiting for the kids to finish soccer practice, or even while commuting (if you’re not driving). Every little bit counts!
Having a conversation with your family about your writing goals is crucial for gaining their support. Let them know that writing is something important to you and that you need time to work on your craft. Most families will appreciate your passion and be willing to help you find time for it.
Why it helps: Support from your family can make a world of difference. Whether it’s helping with household chores, watching the kids for a few hours, or simply being understanding when you need to dedicate time to writing, their encouragement can alleviate stress and allow you to focus.
Tip: If you have young children, consider swapping childcare with a partner or friend for a few hours each week to create uninterrupted writing time. For older kids, ask them to respect your writing time in exchange for quality time together later.
Life happens, and sometimes even the best-laid plans will fall apart. Kids get sick, work deadlines shift, or family emergencies arise. The key is to remain flexible and adjust your expectations accordingly. However, it’s also important to set clear boundaries when it comes to your writing time.
Why it helps: Setting boundaries allows you to safeguard your writing time. It’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly pushing your writing aside for other people’s needs. But setting boundaries ensures that your writing time is respected, just like any other part of your life.
Tip: Learn to say “no” when necessary. If a friend invites you to an impromptu event during your writing time, it’s okay to decline to prioritize your writing. Also, be prepared to reschedule your writing if things don’t go as planned. Flexibility is essential, but consistency is key.
Writing, like any creative endeavor, requires mental and emotional energy. Trying to do everything without taking care of yourself will lead to burnout. To maintain balance, make sure to schedule time for rest, relaxation, and activities that recharge you.
Why it helps: When you neglect self-care, your creativity and energy will diminish, making it harder to write. By maintaining a healthy work/life balance, you ensure that you have the stamina to juggle both your writing and other responsibilities.
Tip: Prioritize sleep, exercise, and downtime. Taking care of your body and mind will help you stay focused when it’s time to write. Also, don’t be afraid to take breaks when you need them. Writing isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon.
Leverage technology to help you stay organized and productive. Whether it’s dictating your ideas into a voice recorder while commuting, using writing apps like Scrivener or Google Docs for easy access to your manuscript, or using productivity apps to stay on track, technology can make your writing process more efficient.
Why it helps: Technology can save time and reduce the effort needed to write. It also allows you to work on your project during those in-between moments, making the most of your day.
Tip: Experiment with productivity tools like time trackers or focus apps (e.g., Pomodoro technique) to help you maximize the short bursts of time you have available for writing.
Balancing work, family, and writing is not easy, but it is possible with the right mindset and strategies. The key is to find a balance that works for you, whether it’s writing early in the morning, during lunch breaks, or late at night. By setting realistic goals, creating a supportive environment, and respecting your boundaries, you can carve out time for your writing ambitions while still being present for your family and work.
Remember, the journey to becoming a published author is a marathon, not a sprint. Every word written is progress, and every moment spent writing is a step closer to your goal.
Writing a novel can feel like a monumental task. However, one of the key steps to making the process smoother is creating a clear and detailed outline. The beauty of outlining is that it allows you to visualize your story from start to finish, saving you from writer’s block and disorganization along the way. While outlining typically takes weeks or months, it’s entirely possible to map out an entire novel in a single day. Here’s how you can do it.
Before diving into the actual outline, take a few moments to prepare yourself. This stage sets the tone for a productive day of writing.
The foundation of your novel rests on its core. Spend some time deciding what your story is truly about.
Now that you know your story’s foundation, let’s start constructing the main plot.
A great plot relies on compelling characters. Spend time outlining their motivations, arcs, and key traits.
To make your outline more specific, break the plot down into key scenes. These will be the building blocks of your novel.
Once you have your key scenes mapped out, organize them into chapters.
As you map out the rest of the novel, make sure every plot thread has a purpose and will be resolved by the end. Avoid overly complex subplots that don’t serve the main story. After all, this outline is a map, and you don’t want to get lost.
Once you’ve completed your outline, step away for a bit. Take a break to clear your head. After that, return with fresh eyes and read over your outline. Does everything make sense? Are there any scenes that feel redundant or unnecessary? Refine your outline until you’re satisfied.
At the end of the day, your novel is outlined, the plot is mapped, and your characters are set. You now have a clear roadmap to follow as you write the novel. The beauty of outlining in one day is that you’ve broken down a massive undertaking into manageable chunks. You’ve structured the bones of the story, and now it’s time to breathe life into it with your words.
Final Thoughts
Outlining your novel in one day is not only possible but incredibly efficient. By focusing on the core elements of plot, character, and structure, you can create a detailed map that will guide you through the process of writing. It’s all about having a clear vision before you start typing. So, grab your materials, follow these steps, and in just one day, you’ll have the blueprint for your novel—ready to be written.
Urban fantasy, a genre that blends supernatural elements with modern-day settings, has exploded in popularity in recent years. From the bustling streets of New York City to the quiet corners of small towns, urban fantasy brings fantastical creatures, magic, and myth into our own world. It offers a tantalizing contrast—where ordinary people navigate extraordinary situations, and the supernatural lurks just beneath the surface of everyday life. But why does urban fantasy resonate so deeply with modern readers, and what is it about our contemporary world that makes it such an ideal backdrop for these otherworldly elements?
Let’s explore why urban fantasy thrives in today’s world, how the genre reflects our collective consciousness, and why its blend of magic and modern continues to captivate readers.
One of the primary reasons urban fantasy is so compelling is its ability to take readers out of the ordinary and transport them into a world where magic exists alongside the familiar. In a genre where the supernatural exists right next to the mundane, readers are able to see their own world transformed. Magic doesn’t exist in a distant fantasy realm—it’s something that could be lurking down the street, hidden in plain sight.
Familiar Settings: Urban fantasy often takes place in cities or towns that readers recognize. The locations are not distant, unknown realms, but places readers know and love. Places they may have even visited. This proximity creates a sense of immersion, where the magical and the mundane feel like they could coexist just around the corner. Imagine a tough, world-weary detective solving magical crimes in downtown Chicago, or a young woman discovering her supernatural abilities while navigating a high school in an ordinary suburb—these modern settings make the fantastical elements feel real and plausible.
By using everyday backdrops, urban fantasy allows readers to fantasize about how their lives might intersect with the extraordinary. For example, what if the coffee shop you walk into every morning is run by a witch, or a local library contains portals to other worlds? The idea that magic could be hidden just beneath the surface of the world we know is both intriguing and comforting, offering a sense of wonder while still feeling grounded.
Urban fantasy thrives because it mirrors modern society’s complex issues while offering a supernatural lens through which to view them. The genre provides a platform for addressing everything from social justice and inequality to personal identity and moral dilemmas—all within the context of a magical world. Supernatural elements in urban fantasy often symbolize real-world problems, allowing for a unique exploration of contemporary themes.
Reflection of Modern Struggles: Characters in urban fantasy are often flawed, complex individuals who wrestle with personal challenges, such as addiction, mental health, self-doubt, or identity. Magic isn’t a cure-all—it complicates their lives in ways that feel both fresh and relatable. For example, a character might struggle with control over their magical abilities, mirroring the internal struggles many people face in the real world. Or perhaps a hidden magical society deals with discrimination or power struggles, echoing themes of social inequality.
In many urban fantasy novels, the protagonist is someone who feels disconnected from the world around them—someone who doesn’t quite fit in, only to discover their connection to a larger, hidden magical community. This journey of self-discovery resonates with readers, as many of us often feel as though there is something more to our lives, waiting just beneath the surface.
Urban fantasy also offers fresh takes on familiar problems. For example, a werewolf struggling with their transformation might symbolize someone struggling with a personal issue, such as anger management or a relationship with their family. A vampire navigating the complexities of immortality could be a metaphor for modern concerns about aging or the search for purpose. By blending the supernatural with contemporary struggles, urban fantasy allows readers to explore complex issues in an engaging, imaginative way.
Another key reason urban fantasy flourishes today is its ability to use magic as a metaphor for larger societal and cultural changes. The modern world is filled with uncertainty and rapid transformation, and urban fantasy reflects this by exploring how the introduction of magical elements could change how people live, think, and relate to each other. Magic can serve as a powerful metaphor for many aspects of the human experience—desire, power, control, and transformation.
Transformation and Empowerment: Urban fantasy often features protagonists who undergo significant personal transformations, both magical and emotional. For example, a character may unlock their latent magical abilities, gaining power and control over their life. This can symbolize personal growth, empowerment, and the ability to overcome obstacles, which speaks directly to readers who are navigating their own life challenges. In a world that’s rapidly changing and sometimes feels beyond our control, the idea that one could find hidden powers or unlock their potential is deeply appealing.
Moreover, urban fantasy offers a unique perspective on power dynamics. Often, the supernatural beings in these stories—vampires, witches, shifters—live in parallel with human society, creating a kind of dual hierarchy. These alternate societies can serve as an allegory for real-world power struggles, showing how marginalized groups fight for recognition and control, or how different groups struggle to maintain power in a world that is constantly changing.
Today’s readers are accustomed to blending the digital and physical realms. Technology allows us to access vast amounts of information, stay connected with others, and even step into virtual worlds—all within the span of a single day. This digital landscape makes it easier for readers to accept the blending of the supernatural with the everyday in urban fantasy.
The Magic of Technology: Urban fantasy often takes advantage of modern technology, incorporating it seamlessly into the magical world. A spell might be cast via smartphone or a magical app that connects witches with their covens. Magic could even be manipulated through futuristic technology, creating a techno-magic hybrid that blends both realms. This overlap feels natural in an age where technology is changing the way we experience and interact with the world around us.
Moreover, the internet and social media provide an instant platform for urban fantasy stories to flourish. Fans can share ideas, create fan fiction, or build communities around their favorite magical worlds. This digital connection fuels the genre’s growth, making it even more ingrained in the modern world.
Escapism with Real-World Connection: In the chaotic, fast-paced world we live in, urban fantasy offers an escape while still holding a mirror to our reality. While the magical elements provide an imaginative escape, the problems and challenges the characters face are often all too real. Whether it’s dealing with a difficult boss, struggling to balance work and relationships, or facing a moral dilemma, urban fantasy allows readers to engage with these everyday issues through a fantastical lens, making the escapism feel meaningful and relatable.
Finally, the supernatural continues to captivate us because, in many ways, it offers a connection to something larger than ourselves. Magic, monsters, and myth allow us to explore aspects of the unknown, and to wonder about possibilities beyond the visible world. In urban fantasy, the supernatural is often hidden just beneath the surface, reminding readers that magic could be real if only we knew where to look.
The modern world, with all its complexity, often leaves us longing for something more—a sense of mystery, wonder, and adventure. Urban fantasy fulfills this longing by weaving the supernatural into the everyday, creating a space where magic is not an escape from the world, but an enhancement of it.
Urban fantasy thrives in the modern world because it taps into our desire for wonder, self-discovery, and connection. It takes the familiar and turns it on its head, allowing us to imagine a world where magic exists just out of view, where the boundaries between the ordinary and extraordinary blur. By blending supernatural elements with real-world struggles, urban fantasy offers both escapism and reflection, presenting a unique lens through which to understand our rapidly changing society.
In a world where magic is rarely tangible, urban fantasy invites readers to believe that, just maybe, there is a little bit of magic hidden in the world around us, waiting to be uncovered. Whether it’s exploring hidden communities, fighting for justice in a world of shadows, or simply enjoying the thrill of discovering magic where you least expect it, urban fantasy remains a genre that resonates with readers of all ages—and shows no sign of fading anytime soon. Which, as an urban fantasy author, I am truly grateful for.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
When love walks into a family war: Headstrong siblings, fated mates, a grandmother’s love, and enemies thirsting for revenge.
Saved by the Wolf
The McCullough Pack Book 1
by Nola Li Barr
Genre: Sweet Paranormal Romance
A Sweet Paranormal Romance Complete Series
Fate brought us together, but the scars of our pasts threaten to tear us apart.
Jill
The moment I hear his voice, something inside me shifts. He seems to reach right into my soul, and suddenly, all I want is to be near him, to feel safe in his arms. But I’ve been down this road before. My last relationship left me broken, bruised, and wary. And the way his friends hang on his every word? It’s too familiar—too much like my past.
Still, there’s an undeniable connection between us. My heart whispers that he’s different, that he’s the one I’ve been waiting for. But how can I trust it when my head is screaming to run?
Luc
She’s shy, quiet . . . human. Not someone my wolf should be drawn to, but he is. When I’m near her, my wolf is calm, content, and all he wants is to claim her as mine. But I’ve sworn off love. I know too well the pain of a broken heart, and I promised myself I wouldn’t go through that again.
Yet, no matter how much I try to push her away, my wolf won’t let me. She’s the one, and every fiber of my being knows it.
Saved by the Wolf is the first book in the McCullough Pack series—a heart-tugging, sweet paranormal romance with all the love, none of the spice, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Loved by the Wolf
The McCullough Pack Book 2
*Originally published under Nola Li Gordon. The whole series is now under Nola Li Barr.
He loves me . . . He loves me not . . .
Becca
I’ve loved him for years and thought the feeling was mutual. But when I lean in to kiss him on our first date, he recoils, claiming he only loves me like a sister.
He breaks my heart that night.
Every bone in my body is telling me to leave—to start a new life in a new place. A place without him in it.
But I must be a masochist because no matter what I tell myself, I cannot stay away from him . . .
Brandon
She is my mate. My wolf knows it.
Ever since she kissed me, my wolf has been clawing at me to claim her. It is becoming harder and harder to control myself.
Because I can’t claim her.
My past haunts me with reminders of my failures. She’s better off without me. The best I can do is be her protector—if I can even do that . . . .
Set against a backdrop of a tight-knit family, this friends-to-lovers story is filled with all the love without the spice, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Adored by the Wolf
The McCullough Pack Book 3
A Sweet Paranormal Romance
*Originally published under Nola Li Gordon. The whole series is now under Nola Li Barr.
All is fair in love and war.
Millie
I’m the responsible sister. The one my family relies on. It’s the reason I’m standing in for my sister, instead of going on my well-deserved vacation.
My day brightens when he walks in. I try to act professional, but he stands close, and his eyes never leave me.
When he leaves, I tell myself he’ll soon forget about me. But on a visit to my friend, he’s there to greet me. This time, I’m the one who can’t look away.
I’m only enjoying his company. Nothing can go wrong.
Jacob
I’m the planner of my family, and with war coming to my pack, I must prepare for it. But my wolf is restless, wanting what my elder brothers have—a mate.
When I see her, my wolf screams she’s the one, and I feel the urge to claim her. I push him down and manage to leave, but thoughts of her continue to bombard me every day.
A day later, my brother pays her a visit, and on his return, he starts acting . . . odd. Once my partner in crime, now he’s looking at me as his enemy.
Suddenly, everything goes wrong.
Enter a world where the strength of a family lies not only with its pack but also with their soulmates. A world filled with all the love without the spice, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Don’t miss the rest of the series!!
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Nola Li Barr writes sweet family saga romances. Both in contemporary and paranormal/fairy tale settings. She loves to explore family dynamics with her characters and see them fall in love, most of the time with someone they’d never deem possible. In the hopes of sharing her stories with her kids sooner than later, her romances are always sweet with a happily ever after. When she’s not writing she can be found reading, baking, and navigating the path of motherhood. Follow her on social media @nolalibarr or visit nolalibarr.com.
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What are you passionate about these days?
I’m super passionate about my books. It’s literally the best career I’ve ever had. The hardest I’ve ever had running my own business, but so rewarding. I wake up wanting to do the work. I’ve also been setting aside time to read books for enjoyment, something I haven’t done consistently in a long time.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
To unwind I usually go into my kindle reader or my bookshelf and pick a book that I don’t have to edit or concentrate too much on. I let myself just enjoy the story.
Also, just this year I finally learned how to crochet. It was something I’d been wanting to learn for a very long time, and it was great to see the tiger take shape. I’m hoping to move on to blankets soon.
How to find time to write as a parent?
For most of the time, I feel like I have no time to write because my brain can’t calm down enough to concentrate. I know lots of authors write in the early morning before everyone gets out of bed, but I’m not a morning person. I’ve found the best times for me are after the kids go to bed, and sometimes it’s on my phone while I’m standing in line or sitting in the car waiting for a sporting practice to end. Lately, I’ve been trying out 5-20 minute chunks. That way it doesn’t seem too overwhelming. Every little bit helps even if it’s a hundred words every day.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When I finished the rough draft of my very first book.
As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?
A wolf 😊
Starting your journey as a writer, especially in the genres of urban fantasy and dystopian fiction, can feel daunting. The world of speculative fiction is vast and intricate, but with the right tools and mindset, you can navigate the writing process and find your unique voice. Here, I’ll break down how I approach writing my novels and offer advice to help you create immersive worlds and compelling narratives.
In urban fantasy and dystopian novels, world-building is at the heart of the story. You’re crafting more than just a plot; you’re designing an entire universe that feels rich and believable. At least, that is the goal. Here’s how I approach it:
In urban fantasy, the world you create often coexists with our own. It’s an alternate version of reality where magic, mythical creatures, or supernatural elements blend seamlessly with modern society. When I begin, I think about the following:
Dystopia often presents a future world that has collapsed or become a grim version of what we know. When crafting your dystopian world, ask yourself:
Characters in urban fantasy and dystopian fiction, like in most novels, are not just participants in a story—they’re shaped by the world around them. However, in these genres, I believe characters should also be a reflection of the world they inhabit.
Both urban fantasy and dystopian fiction thrive on strong plots that weave together personal struggles with broader societal issues. However, you don’t always have to follow a traditional narrative structure.
As a writer, developing a unique voice is crucial to standing out in any genre. For me, voice is the combination of writing style, character perspective, and tone. Urban fantasy tends to be fast-paced, sometimes humorous, while dystopian fiction often has a darker, more reflective tone. Here are some tips for finding your own voice:
The first draft is just that… the first draft… the beginning. Once you’ve completed your manuscript, the real work begins. Editing is a chance to refine your world-building, deepen character arcs, and tighten your plot. For urban fantasy and dystopian fiction, this often means ensuring that the world feels cohesive and that the internal logic makes sense.
Writing can be a long and sometimes lonely process. There will be days… weeks… and sometimes months when you’re not feeling inspired, or when the words don’t come as easily as you’d like. I’ve been there, too. I think every writer has from time to time. Here are a few tips to keep pushing forward:
Writing urban fantasy and dystopian fiction requires a unique mix of creativity, structure, and persistence. But above all, it’s about immersing yourself and your readers in a world that feels as real and urgent as our own. Start small, take risks, and most importantly, have fun and keep writing—your world is waiting to be discovered.
Nina Soden 