As I’ve written in an earlier post, fairy tales and other iconic tales influence my stories. Here are the tales and themes behind the Calatini Tales books in Box Set 2. For these, romance tropes inspired the main plots more than fairy tales because all these main characters were major secondary characters in earlier books.

The Secret Soulbond

Annalise and Dare’s book began with two ideas. 1) Romeo and Juliet (need I say more?) 2) Being extraordinary (whether beautiful, powerful, etc.) is often a burden. Extraordinary people can feel alone because they can’t connect with others or know who to trust. Other core themes are love, family, forgiveness, and secrets.

• My favorite things: I adored writing Annalise and Dare’s story—they’re so made for each other despite being raised as ancestral enemies. And I love how they grow stronger because of their relationship. Plus, exploring how they use their powerful magic as well as including magical pets and nature details was a blast.

The Goddess’s Illusion

Kit and Mel’s book began with the main characters themselves. 1) How would Kit redeem herself after her cruelness toward Wren? 2) Kit and Mel were first loves who still secretly liked each other. 3) How would a fashionable court lady build a life with a dedicated priest? The priesthood themselves were inspired by my mom, who was a pastor. Other core themes are love, acceptance, redemption, forgiveness, and being true to one’s self.

• My favorite things: Writing Kit and Mel’s story was so much fun—I loved Kit’s journey of redemption and self-discovery, Mel’s rationalizations about his feelings for her before he admits he loves her, and how they grow together into partners who always support each other. Plus, their explorations of temple life and the community charities priests run was fascinating. And then there were the many dessert recipes—yum! I hope you love their story as much as I do.

The Sun-Nymph Bride

Pippa and Edouard’s book also began with the main characters themselves. 1) Opposites attract: a sunny young lady and a serious gentleman. 2) How would a deliberate gentleman handle falling in love at first sight? 3) How would a young debutante convince that gentleman she was old enough to marry? Edouard and his father were inspired by myself and my dad. Other core themes are love, risk vs. patience, optimism vs. pessimism, and devotion.

• My favorite things: I loved writing Pippa and Edouard’s story—it’s a shorter book (for me, lol), but with so many lovely moments. I adored Pippa’s sunny determination, Edouard’s steady devotion, and their flirtatious banter and irresistible kisses. Plus, creating all the tenth-century art, architectural details, and their thoughtful gifts to each other was such fun. As was the twist that neither of them expected…