November is National Novel Writing Month (aka NaNoWriMo). Once again, I’m participating in the challenge to write 50,000 words by the 30th. By the end of the year, I need a recharge. I’ve already written over 200,000 words in 2021. But I have so many stories to tell, and it all starts with a 50,000 first draft. So, I am jumping into the challenge feet first this year.

I’m writing this today, November 12, because it is also Disney Plus day. If you don’t have a subscription, this is an awesome opportunity to check out what it offers. I love the documentaries. I am endlessly fascinated and encouraged learning about (and witnessing in the case of Into the Unknown, the Frozen 2 documentary I’ve practically memorized by now) other creatives’ processes.

One line has stuck with me throughout this year. When asked what he does if he isn’t inspired by a project, one imagineer answered “I might not always be excited about a job I’m assigned. But it is my job to figure out what makes it exciting.” As a romance writer, I really connected with this statement. I love writing, but sometimes I find myself having to approach a trope I would not necessarily gravitate towards on my own. In the process of making the trope exciting, I find my inspiration.

This month, I’m working on the second of a planned trilogy of Western contemporary romances. I never thought I’d write a cowboy book. But I LOVE IT! It’s been an unexpected joy and–bonus–I am so blessed to announce I am now represented by a literary agent I’ve long admired, Dawn Dowdle of Blue Ridge Literary.

If you haven’t started your 50,000 words yet, don’t worry! You can pick any day to begin. You just have to sit down, turn off your inner editor, and type. We are waiting for your stories!

I’m so delighted to introduce you to one of my dear writing friends, author Kayla Kensington. Her debut novel, Finding Her Family’s Love, is coming very soon!

Tell us three things we’d find if we looked under your heroine’s bed? How about the hero’s?

Under Kendra’s bed, you’d find a covered container with a stash of yarn. A basket holds a variety of knitting needles. You’d also discover a pair of comfy red slippers that she wears on chilly mornings. 

What would you find under Pierce’s bed?

Under Pierce’s bed, you’d find six pairs of running shoes. Two are pairs he recently purchased. He can’t part with the other shoes that he wore during key track meets in high school and college. 

What is the theme of this book? If it’s part of a series, how does this book fit into the series?

The main theme of the book is forgiveness. Kendra needs to find it in her heart to forgive her late husband who emotionally abused her. In addition, she needs to forgive herself for falling in love with an abuser. 

Why do you write this genre? What inspired this story? Do you write any other genres?

I write inspirational romance because I read many books in this genre when my husband experienced health issues. The books inspired me and the faith message gave me peace. I wanted to offer readers the same encouragement I received when I read inspirational romance. 

As a middle school librarian, I also write for that audience. 

A long time ago, I experienced an emotionally abusive relationship with someone who seemed kind. Even after the relationship ended, the consequences of emotional abuse lingered and took a toll on my self esteem. I hoped to help readers who may know someone who experienced emotional abuse and realize that future happiness and healthy relationships await them. 

Any tips to share with fellow authors/aspiring authors? What’s the best advice you’ve ever heard?

“A professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit.” Richard Bach. 

Keep learning and improving your craft. Join a critique group. Take writing classes. Define success as never giving up. 

Connect with Kayla online

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Kayla Kensington

Coming December 14th from The Wild Rose Press

Actress Kara Kensington flies to New Hope, Wisconsin, where she’ll spend the winter holidays filming a movie. Her entire career depends on the success of the feel-good story based on her best friend’s life. To salvage her strained friendship with Dani, Kara asks the cute guy from the flight to act as her new boyfriend. But the longer she spends with him, the less she’s acting.

For Chef Scott Neil, his holidays aren’t only about family togetherness. He wants Aunt Shirley and Uncle Ted to retire. When he’s asked to fake a relationship with Kara, he agrees. As he gets drawn into Kara’s production, he questions what is real and what’s just for show.

Only a fool would fall in love with America’s sweetheart.

Pre-order now at

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