Daily Archives: September 12, 2026

Creating My First Reader Magnet

One of the goals I set for myself this year was to write my first reader magnet. With my first set of deadlines now fulfilled, I knew this was a must. Plus I wanted something to thank all the readers who have been so supportive and encouraging to this newly published author.

I had to consider what I should write. I had some ideas, but I didn’t want to use anything that could be a full novel in my series. At a conference last year, in one of the sessions, there was a suggestion to find something to introduce your series. And with that prompt, an idea took root that would fit nicely in my Best-laid Plans series.

What my reader magnet is about

In my very first book, I mention how there was a teacher that came before Olivia. But she was swept off her feet before even stepping foot in the one-room schoolhouse. And because of that, Mayor Martin and the school board had created a whole new set of rules going forward for the town of Washton when Olivia arrived.

So before Olivia set foot in Washton, there was Tilly Johnson. She was on her way to Washton as that first teacher. But none of those plans turned out. She may or may not have been swept off her feet. I’ll let you decide. But Grant, the hero in the story, might’ve been. Just a little bit. Especially after he offered a marriage in name only. But that all came after they ate ice cream.

How to get my first reader magnet

To receive my first 8-chapter novelette, click on the book cover. You may download the book when you sign up for my newsletter (but you can unsubscribe at any time).

An Unplanned Marriage Proposal

Two strangers. A marriage of convenience. An Unexpected love. 

Tilly Johnson has only ever wanted one thing—to teach. Wishing to make a difference in her own one-room schoolhouse, she crosses the country to California to follow her dream.

Railroad detective Grant Stone has purposely built his life on staying detached for reasons he can’t talk about. But he won’t sit by and watch when the stranded young woman whose name is on everyone’s lips needs assistance. Except the desire to protect her reputation leads to a marriage proposal he never intended to make…and a wife he never planned on wanting.

As feelings deepen and circumstances threaten to pull them in different directions, Tilly must decide whether to keep chasing the dream that brought her west—or embrace the unexpected future God has placed before her.

Perfect for readers who enjoy story tropes marriage of convenience, unexpected love, small town romance, protector hero.

A little bonus fun

I had a lot of fun writing my first reader magnet. I loved creating Tilly and Grant and writing their story. I also enjoyed creating images for them. Especially this one in the ice cream parlor. I love ice cream and I finally had an opportunity to write a scene in one (since schoolmarms are not really allowed to be seen in them unescorted).

Denise loves to share about her writing journey (see all her posts here), including her word of the year (this year it is BALANCE), her debut novel When Plans Go Awry, and all the things in between. You can visit her at her website and blog at www.denisemcolby.com or on her facebook or instagram. Please note: some links include Amazon Associate links where Denise can earn from qualifying purchases.