Isabelle Hardesty's Blog, page 5

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Published on June 09, 2019 11:46

THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR How I Found My Publisher and Agent

I am thrilled to announce that my YA fantasy novel, THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, will be published by Month9Books in 2020. This novel was so much fun to write, and I can’t wait for readers to enjoy it!

This book has had an exciting journey, and the journey continues! I wrote THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR because of my fascination with magic, my love of nature, and my romantic heart.

I found my publisher in a way that I had heard about, but never truly believed. My husband and I have been attending Dragon Con for a few years. I love their sci-fi and fantasy panels, but I adore the various writing panels offered each year. One of the tips writers and editors would frequently give was that conventions were the perfect place to find a publisher.

Really?

What would I say?

Would I have the nerve?

Last year I sat in the audience as Georgia McBride, owner of Month9Books, spoke at a Dragon Con panel. As she spoke, I silently worked over what I would say to her after the panel. I worked on my elevator pitch over and over again until it felt right.

I told her my book is about a teen who just graduated high school and is also a telenovela actress. She’s a witch with a hot BFF who doesn’t know her secret, or so she thinks. She must decide if she will accept the decision of becoming a Lead Witch for her South Florida swamp town. If she agrees, her decision will give her the magic needed to save her dying aunt, while also bringing back magic to all the dormant witches in her town, both good and evil.

The panel had finished. Would I be brave enough to approach?

I knew that the easiest thing for me to do was to turn around and walk out of the room. If I rushed, I could catch dozens of Dragon Con’s other panels.

Recently, I had turned down two book contracts for THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR because they weren’t the right fit. I was close to self-publishing my book, but I couldn’t get my mother’s advice out of my head from a couple of years ago; “Don’t sell yourself short.” I knew that I wanted to give my novel the widest audience possible.

Georgia McBride was busy talking with other writers. I braced myself and took a deep breath. I waited, ignoring my desire to flee.

I finally walked up to Georgia McBride with a smile. Luckily my elevator pitch intrigued her, and she requested that I submit my manuscript to Month9Books.

Whew.

I submitted my YA fantasy novel, THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, to Month9Books in September.

A couple of months later, my husband and I decided to relocate from the Metro Atlanta area to Seattle. We put our house on the market and made the big cross-country move with our one and a half-year-old son.

During my first Monday living in Seattle, I received an email. I saw the words, but my brain had to soak in what the words meant. I became accustomed to receiving “no’s,” that it took a few extra seconds to recognize the “yes” before my eyes.

I received an offer for my book from Month9Books! I was over the moon with excitement! My husband joked that Seattle was good luck for my writing career.

Not knowing anything about book contracts, I queried a few literary agents. I informed them that I had a book offer from Month9Books and that I would like an agent for this book.

I remember the hopeful feeling when I queried Mark Gottlieb, of Trident Media. He had always been on my dream literary agent list. When he requested a full manuscript from me that same night, I was hopeful.

Then I waited.

Just in case, I signed up for Writer’s Market, to expand my search. Fortunately, I didn’t need to use it because something wonderful happened! My phone rang!

New deal congrats! .@IsabelleHWrites‘s THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, an #ownvoices story: girl knows that magic exists, but as new telenovela actress, her family’s old secret of magic doesn’t fit into her life, to .@Georgia_McBride .@Month9Books by Mark Gottlieb at #TridentMediaGroup pic.twitter.com/NeUCqJaKjg

— Literary Agent Mark Gottlieb (@Mark_Gottlieb) March 16, 2019

I received “The Call” while I was visiting a local library in Seattle with my now 19-month-old son. I was thrilled when Mark Gottlieb spoke to me about my book and offered to represent me! I could now relax, knowing that my novel was going to receive the best care possible with my amazing literary agent.

Month9Books is the perfect home for my book, and I can’t wait to work with their fabulous team as we bring this book to readers.

I thank both Georgia and Mark for believing in THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR. I am also thankful for my mother’s wise words.

Whatever your dream is, don’t give up on it. And when that “yes” finally comes, be sure to recognize it and celebrate it!

Isabelle Hardesty
Fantasy Writer

Isabelle Hardesty is a writer of young adult fantasy. She enjoys writing about characters who are like people you know and people you want to know.

Isabelle lives in Seattle with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate, and connecting with readers. When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.

Stay connected:
Isabelle Hardesty’s Website
Twitter
Instagram

Facebook

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Published on April 26, 2019 11:38

A Simple Gesture

Mr. Flaum called me to the back of the classroom. He looked serious.

I couldn’t imagine why he’d want to see me. I was a good student, so I wasn’t too worried. But, I was a little concerned because, like most teens, I was a talkative middle school student.

I stood in the back of the room with him and relaxed once I saw him smile.

He said, “Isabelle, I’m giving this sketchbook to you because you’re an outstanding artist.”

Me? I liked drawing and loved painting, but I had never been told that before. I raised my eyebrows. This was much better than I expected. I reached my hands out and held the sketchbook as though it were covered in gems. This wasn’t my first sketchbook. But it was my first sketchbook given to me by an art teacher.

“Thank you,” I said. It felt good to know that Mr. Flaum thought my art was good. It’s quite simple but also profound.

A teacher’s day can be full of paperwork, phone calls, meetings, field trips, classroom issues, and students. Yet, countless teachers stop and recognize a student and influence a child’s life, with a simple gesture.

That sketchbook helped give me the confidence to pursue my love of art and creativity. I have had the pleasure of exhibiting my work in Paris and received my B.F.A. from Pratt Institute. I have had the honor of being an art teacher in fantastic schools in both Miami and the Metro-Atlanta area.

My writing is a celebration of my creativity and owed in part to my love of art, which was fueled by a simple gesture from a caring teacher.

Isabelle Hardesty
YA Fantasy Author
www.IsabelleHardesty.com

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Published on April 25, 2019 20:57

THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR to be published by Month9Books in 2020

I am so thrilled to announce that my YA fantasy novel, THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, will be published by Month9Books in 2020.

This novel was so much fun to write, and I can’t wait for readers to enjoy it! I love my characters and can’t wait for you to fall in love with them, too!

I found my publisher in a way that I had heard about, but never truly believed. My husband and I have been attending Dragon Con for a few years. I love so many of the panels, but I adore the various writing panels offered each year. One of the tips writers and editors frequently say was that conventions were the perfect place to find a publisher. Really? Who would want a writer to come up to them? What would I say?

Well, last year I sat in the audience as Georgia McBride, owner of Month9Books spoke at a Dragon Con panel. As she spoke, I silently worked over what I would say to her after the panel. I worked on my elevator pitch in my head, while simultaneously listening to the talk.

The panel was over. Would I have the nerve to approach her?

I realized that the easiest thing to do was to turn around and walk out of the room. I had already turned down two book contracts for THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR because they weren’t the right fit. Anyway, I was close to self-publishing my book. Plus if I rushed, I could catch dozens of exciting Dragon Con sci-fi and fantasy panels.

But no, I wouldn’t let this opportunity pass. I braced myself and took a deep breath. She was busy talking with other writers. Again, I realized it would be easier to leave. She probably wouldn’t be interested in my book.

I waited, ignoring my desire to flee. I worked on what I would say.

I finally walked up to her with a smile, and she was so easy to talk with. Luckily my elevator pitch intrigued her, and she requested that I submit my manuscript to Month9Books.

Whew.

I submitted THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR to her, and a few months later I received an email. I saw the words, but my brain had to soak in what the words meant. I became so used to receiving “no’s,” that I didn’t know what a “yes” looked like.

I received an Offer for my book from Month9Books! I was over the moon with excitement! I quickly realized I had no knowledge of contracts and I queried Mark Gottlieb, of Trident Media.

I waited.

A few days later, I was visiting a local library with my 19-month-old son and received a call from Mark. Again, it was surreal and fantastic.

New deal congrats! .@IsabelleHWrites‘s THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, an #ownvoices story: girl knows that magic exists, but as new telenovela actress, her family’s old secret of magic doesn’t fit into her life, to .@Georgia_McBride .@Month9Books by Mark Gottlieb at #TridentMediaGroup pic.twitter.com/NeUCqJaKjg

— Literary Agent Mark Gottlieb (@Mark_Gottlieb) March 16, 2019

This book has had an exciting journey, and the journey continues! Join me as THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, my debut novel, moves from an idea that came to me one day, to a finished book for readers. It started with my fascination with magic, my love of exploring nature, and my romantic heart.

Month9Books is the perfect home for my book, and I can’t wait to work with their fabulous team as we bring this book to readers.

I thank Georgia and Mark for believing in THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR.

Whatever your dream is, don’t give up on it, no matter how long it takes. And when that yes finally comes, be sure you recognize it and celebrate it!

Isabelle Hardesty

Isabelle Hardesty is a writer of young adult fantasy. She enjoys writing about characters who are like people you know and people you want to know.

Isabelle lives in Seattle with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate and connecting with readers. When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.

Stay connected :

Twitter

Instagram

Facebook

The post THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR to be published by Month9Books in 2020 appeared first on Isabelle Hardesty.

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Published on April 24, 2019 11:38

New Year, New City and Book Offer for my YA Fantasy Novel

So, after several weeks of selling our home and all the work that entails, my husband, toddler son, and I have relocated to Seattle. It wasn’t easy leaving family and friends, but this move came at a good time for our family.

On Monday, January 7th, just four days after moving to this beautiful city, I received an email. I read the words, but my eyes and brain didn’t transfer the information, because I was freaking out! It was an offer of publication for my young adult fantasy novel!

I loved writing this book and am so happy that this book will be able to find more readers with a fantastic publisher behind it. My novel is set in South Florida, and it’s about a witch.

I can’t go into details just yet, but trust me, as soon as I can, I will.

Do I have packing advice, you ask? Oh, yes!

Start as early as possible.
If you have a toddler, be sure and have a pack and play/ playpen up and ready to keep your little one away from boxes and packing supplies.
Label each box, or you will regret it.
Have an “open first” box so that you can have your essential items and creature comforts.
Do not expect a smooth move.
Easy moves do not exist unless you are an android.
Enjoy the process. It’s chaotic, but it’s part of life.

Happy New Year!

Isabelle Hardesty

www.IsabelleHardesty.com

Young Adult Fantasy Writer

Isabelle Hardesty is a YA fantasy writer from Miami She is the author of The Delacourt Series.

Isabelle lives in Seattle with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate and connecting with readers.

When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.

Receive a free copy to review by joining her mailing list. Learn about special giveaways, deals and other fun for readers.… NEWSLETTER: bit.ly/29H76Cc

WEBSITE: IsabelleHardesty.com

Here is a review for Jade’s Paradox:

“Jade has a blood family, but she is finding that having a sister can be both rewarding and very, very trying, especially when her sister has a mind of her own, some pretty strong powers and a major chip on her shoulders. Even more crushing, Jade finally learns who her birth parents are and what truly happened that caused her to be raised in the human world, never quite fitting in.

With Bex lurking in the shadows, plotting Jade’s demise, one small break at a time, it becomes apparent that in order to save the paranormal and human worlds alike, she must master her magic, and become the Fairy Enthrall. Besting Bex and overthrowing her evil reign will not be easy, but neither will convincing the fairy realm she is worthy of the title.

And again, with JADE’S PARADOX, Isabelle Hardesty has created a strong character who represents all that can be good in people, even as a teen in over her head in a world that has never quite accepted her. New family dynamics, unsettling truths, and the wicked machinations of a powerful adversary will test Jade to dig deep and believe in herself, as she fully comes of age in an onslaught of turmoil!

It is so wonderful to read a young adult tale that relies on great storytelling with strong main characters who FEEL like teens and then to find a teen romance that is sweet and sometimes a little “gushy” without the over-the-top angst! This is a series I would buy for my young adult grandchildren!” ★★★★★

~Tome Tender Book Blog

The post New Year, New City and Book Offer for my YA Fantasy Novel appeared first on Isabelle Hardesty.

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Published on January 08, 2019 08:50

Print books and ebooks

There are some people who are devout print book readers, while others sing the praise of the ebook.

For print book fans, the feel of the pages are one of the things they enjoy. Many readers talk of the smell of the pages. Some say the weight of the book in their hands just feels right.

Ebook lovers say that they now are able to travel without having to drag a heap of books with them. Ebook readers enjoy the ease of downloading a book instantly, with ease.

Some readers are like me and see the benefit of both. I do love the feel of pages at my fingertips, but I also enjoy the clarity of the ebook page.

Whatever format, just keep on reading!

Isabelle Hardesty is a YA fantasy writer from Miami She is the author of The Delacourt Series.

Isabelle lives in Atlanta with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate and connecting with readers.

When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.

Receive a free copy to review by joining her mailing list. Learn about special giveaways, deals and other fun for readers.… NEWSLETTER: bit.ly/29H76Cc

WEBSITE: IsabelleHardesty.com

Here is a review for Jade’s Paradox:

“Jade has a blood family, but she is finding that having a sister can be both rewarding and very, very trying, especially when her sister has a mind of her own, some pretty strong powers and a major chip on her shoulders. Even more crushing, Jade finally learns who her birth parents are and what truly happened that caused her to be raised in the human world, never quite fitting in.

With Bex lurking in the shadows, plotting Jade’s demise, one small break at a time, it becomes apparent that in order to save the paranormal and human worlds alike, she must master her magic, and become the Fairy Enthrall. Besting Bex and overthrowing her evil reign will not be easy, but neither will convincing the fairy realm she is worthy of the title.

And again, with JADE’S PARADOX, Isabelle Hardesty has created a strong character who represents all that can be good in people, even as a teen in over her head in a world that has never quite accepted her. New family dynamics, unsettling truths, and the wicked machinations of a powerful adversary will test Jade to dig deep and believe in herself, as she fully comes of age in an onslaught of turmoil!

It is so wonderful to read a young adult tale that relies on great storytelling with strong main characters who FEEL like teens and then to find a teen romance that is sweet and sometimes a little “gushy” without the over-the-top angst! This is a series I would buy for my young adult grandchildren!” ~Tome Tender Book Blog ★★★★★

The post Print books and ebooks appeared first on Isabelle Hardesty.

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Published on July 07, 2018 18:58

Jade in NYC

Jade’s Paradox takes place in New York City. I know, I know, NYC is everywhere. However, I used to live there. So, in honor of all the years I spent living in the Big Apple, I chose this fabulous city.

Jade begins in Atlanta, where she attends a cosplay convention. Unfortunately for her, she transforms into a dragon and her life is never the same.

What’s your favorite city?

To find out more about Jade’s Pardox click here.

Isabelle Hardesty is a YA fantasy writer and was born and raised in Miami on a street that had coconut trees and the scent of a nearby Cuban bakery’s latest creations wafting in the warm air.

Jade’s Awakening: From Regular Teen to Shapeshifter and Jade’s Descent are part of Isabelle Hardesty’s Teen Shapeshifter Delacourt Saga series. Both novellas are available on Amazon.

Isabelle lives in Atlanta with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate and connecting with readers. When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.

Receive a free copy to review by joining her mailing list. Learn about special giveaways, deals and other fun for readers.… NEWSLETTER: bit.ly/29H76Cc

WEBSITE: IsabelleHardesty.com

Here is a review for Jade’s Paradox:

“Jade has a blood family, but she is finding that having a sister can be both rewarding and very, very trying, especially when her sister has a mind of her own, some pretty strong powers and a major chip on her shoulders. Even more crushing, Jade finally learns who her birth parents are and what truly happened that caused her to be raised in the human world, never quite fitting in.

With Bex lurking in the shadows, plotting Jade’s demise, one small break at a time, it becomes apparent that in order to save the paranormal and human worlds alike, she must master her magic, and become the Fairy Enthrall. Besting Bex and overthrowing her evil reign will not be easy, but neither will convincing the fairy realm she is worthy of the title.

And again, with JADE’S PARADOX, Isabelle Hardesty has created a strong character who represents all that can be good in people, even as a teen in over her head in a world that has never quite accepted her. New family dynamics, unsettling truths, and the wicked machinations of a powerful adversary will test Jade to dig deep and believe in herself, as she fully comes of age in an onslaught of turmoil!

It is so wonderful to read a young adult tale that relies on great storytelling with strong main characters who FEEL like teens and then to find a teen romance that is sweet and sometimes a little “gushy” without the over-the-top angst! This is a series I would buy for my young adult grandchildren!” ~Tome Tender Book Blog ★★★★★

The post Jade in NYC appeared first on Isabelle Hardesty.

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Published on June 27, 2018 13:01

Jade’s Paradox and waiting

Jade’s Paradox was supposed to be published months ago, but I had a bundle of joy! So thank you to all for your patience while my little one had some mommy time.

I was finally able to finish book three of The Delacourt Saga. Jade’s journey ends in a wonderful way, full of all the feels that help make a memorable H.E.A.

This completes my series and it was so much fun to write about Jade! I have to say, I don’t think I’m done with Bex. Be on the look out in the future for a reformed Bex, maybe. I think that could be tons of fun.

Please let me know what you think of this final book. I love hearing from my readers! Enjoy!

———————Click here for more info————->

Isabelle NEW AUTHOR PHOTO4444444 Hardesty is a YA fantasy writer and was born and raised in Miami on a street that had coconut trees and the scent of a nearby Cuban bakery’s latest creations wafting in the warm air.

Jade’s Awakening: From Regular Teen to Shapeshifter and Jade’s Descent are part of Isabelle Hardesty’s Teen Shapeshifter Delacourt Saga series. Both novellas are available on Amazon.

Isabelle lives in Atlanta with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate and connecting with readers. When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.

Receive a free copy to review by joining her mailing list. Learn about special giveaways, deals and other fun for readers.… NEWSLETTER: bit.ly/29H76Cc

WEBSITE: IsabelleHardesty.com

Here is a review for Jade’s Paradox:

“Jade has a blood family, but she is finding that having a sister can be both rewarding and very, very trying, especially when her sister has a mind of her own, some pretty strong powers and a major chip on her shoulders. Even more crushing, Jade finally learns who her birth parents are and what truly happened that caused her to be raised in the human world, never quite fitting in.

With Bex lurking in the shadows, plotting Jade’s demise, one small break at a time, it becomes apparent that in order to save the paranormal and human worlds alike, she must master her magic, and become the Fairy Enthrall. Besting Bex and overthrowing her evil reign will not be easy, but neither will convincing the fairy realm she is worthy of the title.

And again, with JADE’S PARADOX, Isabelle Hardesty has created a strong character who represents all that can be good in people, even as a teen in over her head in a world that has never quite accepted her. New family dynamics, unsettling truths, and the wicked machinations of a powerful adversary will test Jade to dig deep and believe in herself, as she fully comes of age in an onslaught of turmoil!

It is so wonderful to read a young adult tale that relies on great storytelling with strong main characters who FEEL like teens and then to find a teen romance that is sweet and sometimes a little “gushy” without the over-the-top angst! This is a series I would buy for my young adult grandchildren!” ~Tome Tender Book Blog ★★★★★

The post Jade’s Paradox and waiting appeared first on Isabelle Hardesty.

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Published on June 25, 2018 17:00

How do you organize your bookshelf?

You have the BEST collection of books in your bookshelf. Some have been given to you as gifts by loved ones. You’ve purchased some of these books yourself, after a glowing recommendation from a friend. Others have been signed by your favorite authors. So, how is your bookshelf organized?

Here are some different ways readers like to organize their bookshelf:

Genre
Color
Size
Alphabetically

By genre? Many readers enjoy this method. This way, when they’re in the mood for that romantic read or that mysterious novel, they know exactly where to go.

Or is it organized by color? Color is powerful. So, why not use it to organize your reading selection? Colors can also be organized in special ways. Think of the color wheel. Colors have different families, such as warm, cool, primary and secondary. Maybe even organizing your books in the order of the rainbow, or any pattern that pleases your eye.

What about size? Wouldn’t that be the easiest, really? Just layout all your books from small to big and be done with it! Just kidding, the idea gives me a headache, but I’m sure that there are some readers out there who may enjoy this.

What’s the most important thing to remember?

No matter your style, the most important thing to remember when organizing your bookshelf is to do it the way that works for you, or you’ll never find that special book.

I like to sort my books by genre, then color, and lastly by size. That works for me!

Isabelle NEW AUTHOR PHOTO4444444 Hardesty is a YA fantasy writer and was born and raised in Miami on a street that had coconut trees and the scent of a nearby Cuban bakery’s latest creations wafting in the warm air.

Jade’s Awakening: From Regular Teen to Shapeshifter and Jade’s Descent are part of Isabelle Hardesty’s Teen Shapeshifter Delacourt Saga series. Both novellas are available on Amazon.

Isabelle lives in Atlanta with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate and connecting with readers. When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.

Receive a free copy to review by joining her mailing list. Learn about special giveaways, deals and other fun for readers.… NEWSLETTER: bit.ly/29H76Cc

WEBSITE: IsabelleHardesty.com

Here is a review that makes Isabelle smile:

“I was mesmerized from the beginning. The characters are well developed and the story line is amazing. I couldn’t put it down and was sad when I got to the last page. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Jade’s Descent. I’ve already pre-ordered!” – Lisa W.

The post How do you organize your bookshelf? appeared first on Isabelle Hardesty.