An Interview with a Witch, Juliette Mariana Fontaine

A fun Q & A with Juliette Mariana Fontaine. She’s the The Witch of Belle Fleur!

Q. What’s it like being a telenovela actress?
A. It’s crazy, fun and connects me to my aunt. We love watching them together.

Q. Who’s your BFF? Are you blushing?
A. No, I’m not blushing. My best friend is Victor.

Q. Where is your favorite place in the world? I assume you’d be there with your BFF.
A. Yes, he’s pretty much always with me, unless I’m on set or at home doing boring stuff. It would be the swamp. Don’t look so scared, you’d be surprised how relaxing and nice that place can be. It centers me.

Q. Well, that’s a lot to say about a place that gives me the creeps. Don’t the alligators and snake scare you?
A. I guess I have a way with animals, they don’t bother me at all. Don’t freak out, but I have a pet alligator, Heathcliff.

Q. Well, that’s a new one. Okay, last question. Belle Fleur was once called the most magical city in the US. So, I have to ask, do you believe in magic?
A. I mean, yeah, who doesn’t?

Q. Why are you laughing? It’s a serious question. Some of our readers want to know.
A. I thought you were going to ask questions about telenovelas and acting.

Q. Ok, I see the question makes you uncomfortable. How about this. If you could be a witch, would you?
A. Maybe, if it could make the world a better place.

 Grab your copy today!

Oh, here’s a new review for The Witch of Belle Fleur! Thank you, readers! Please keep these reviews coming! There are now 9 reviews for this book. I can’t wait to reach 10!


5.0 out of 5 stars
   Wow – what a ride!
Reviewed in the United States on October 25, 2020
“Just when I think I know what’s going to happen, I guess wrong, and go forward to read on in this roller coaster of witchcraft and excitement. What a really great read! So happy I was turned onto this writer – looking forward to reading more of her work!”

 

Happy reading!

Isabelle

Isabelle Hardesty is a Miami native who uses her creative work to share her experiences growing up in South Florida. She is committed to creating rich and strong female characters in her books. Hardesty wants young people and women of color to see themselves in her novels and know they are a meaningful part of the world they’re in.

Hardesty received her BFA from Pratt Institute and has worked in NYC as an assistant fashion designer. Her rich and textured life experiences allow her to create characters and plots that engage readers. One common thread in all of her professional experiences is that storytelling is always king.

Isabelle Hardesty’s first published work was a short story that was published in an anthology. This short story grew into The Delacourt Shapeshifter Trilogy.

Hardesty wove her love of magic and nature into her most recent novel, The Witch of Belle Fleur. Her book tells the story of Juliette, an Afro-Latina teen telenovela actress, teetering on the edge as she unravels her family’s secret of magic, only to discover that if she becomes a lead witch, she must let both good and evil magic return to her town.  Midnight in Belle Fleur is the sequel and will be available this year. This year, Isabelle will be returning to Dragon Con where she will discuss books, creativity, evil fae and more!

Her book, The Witch of Belle Fleur, placed on ScreenCraft’s Cinematic Book Competition 2022 and is on the REDLIST. In 2022, she is the Young Adult category winner for the SPF Foundation 2022.

Isabelle Hardesty lives with her husband and son in the Pacific Northwest.

Why I went Live on Facebook and More!

Thank you for those of you who stopped by during my FB live on the 11th. Well, for the first few seconds, it was pretty daunting. All these thoughts raced through my brain. What would I do? What would I say? And then I relaxed. I made believe I was speaking to one reader, just one, who wanted to know about Juliette, Victor and the magical world in Belle Fleur. And then I went on and on for 47 minutes! LOL!

So, I guess I actually like going live on FB. Next stop will be Instagram, for all you Intagrammers out there! 🙂

I’m proud of myself for doing something that I would have never thought of doing before this year. What are you thinking about braving this year? Maybe you are saving it for next year, that’s fine, too. Click below to see the video. No, you don’t have to watch the whole 47 minutes, but you can if you’d like! 🙂

Oh, I’m almost at 10 book reviews, for The Witch of Belle Fleur! Thank you so much! Want to see what readers are saying?

Nick Neagle
5.0 out of 5 stars Juliette’s Journey
Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2020
“What an exciting ride for Juliette! Finding out her friend Victor is more than he says he is and then being tossed into a world of secrets, monsters, witches, shifters, etc. The author creates a world that draws you in and makes you want to keep reading and keeping you on the edge so that you cheer for the main characters. Caring for their outcome is fun to cheer for and I think readers of all ages will really feel close to this book. There is some romance in there as well, but I think it only adds to the realism and does not draw from it. That is tough in fantasy to me. Great book and recommended to all.”

 Grab your copy today!
AMAZON
Happy reading!

Best wishes,

Isabelle
www.IsabelleHardesty.com

Autumn YA Fantasy Book Giveaway & FB Live Event Oct. 11th


Are you ready for some autumn reading? Jump into The Witch of Belle Fleur and immerse yourself in Juliette’s world.

For Juliette, nature is part of her magic. Her favorite place in the world is the swamp. Its sounds, smells and views make her heart leap. Victor Hernandez, her drop-dead gorgeous best friend makes her heart leap, too.

The two of them discover that there is more than the love of the swamp between them as magic takes over both of their lives.

Magic is a way for Juliette to help her sick aunt. As she learns who she really is, magic becomes a two-sided force that scares her. She’s both Destroyer and Healer witch and fears that the Destroyer side is pulling her in, deeper and deeper.

Juliette grows in magic as it lifts her to new experiences in her life. It allows her to try new things and find her strength.

Magic is life. When she’s at death’s door, nature’s magic saves her, linking Juliette to a force greater than herself.

 Grab your copy today!
AMAZON

Join Me for a Facebook Live Q&A Event (Sunday) 10-11
3:00 Pacific / 6:00 Eastern

I’ll be talking about my new book, doing a live reading, and answering questions. Plus, two lucky commenters will win a free digital copy of THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR.

Join the event —-> https://www.facebook.com/IsabelleHardestyWriter

Happy reading!

Best wishes,

Isabelle
www.IsabelleHardesty.com

How to Write a Book Review and Book Review Q & A

Happy October! I hope this new month finds you well. Even though I’m from Miami, I do like the cooler fall weather and fall colors!

What I’m thinking about!
I’m having so much fun writing Midnight in Belle Fleur. I love writing about strong female characters. Growing up, I had many moments in life when I wasn’t sure if I should own my strength.

When I doubted myself, I always had my siblings and mother to remind me of who I was. When we shrink from our strength, it doesn’t help anyone. I hope my books remind my wonderful readers of their strength.

Book Spotlight!
I was so thrilled when a reader said she saw The Witch of Belle Fleur in this fabulous article! 10 Witchy Reads for Fall I am so pleased that my book is listed with these amazing witchy books! Thanks, Denise B. Young!

Did you know….

Reviews are as easy as 1,2,3!

I will be happy to give a free ebook copy of The Witch of Belle Fleur to any reader on my newsletter who can complete an honest book review in the next 3 1/2 weeks.

If this sounds good, please respond to this email and I send you a free e-book copy. Thanks!

If writing a book review feels like writing a book report from high school, don’t fret! It’s as easy as 1,2,3.

1. Write one sentence and let others know if you liked the book.

2.  Write one sentence about your favorite character.

3. Would you recommend this book? How many stars will you give this book? Now, go to this link and add your review for The Witch of Belle Fleur.

If you’ve read some of my other books, click here to leave a review for them. Thank you, ROYAL REVIEWERS! 

Book Review Q&A:

Q: Should I write a summary/synopsis of the book?

A: No. This isn’t a book report for school so, relax. Also, readers don’t want any spoilers.

Q: I’m shy. Is there a way to leave an anonymous review?

A: Yes! On Amazon, go to the book review page and click on the  light blue bar at top. Now edit your name.

Done! 🙂

The Witch of Belle Fleur


“What I read definitely had me wanting the rest of the story and that’s what makes a good book to me.

I will definitely be buying the next book in the series!”

Kindle Review
September 26, 2020

Here are links to all my books. Have you read them yet?

🢂The Witch of Belle Fleur
🢂Midnight in Belle Fleur (PRE-ORDER TODAY)
🢂Jade’s Awakening
🢂Jade’s Descent
🢂Jade’s Paradox
🢂The Delacourt Shapeshifter Trilogy Complete Boxset Books 1-3


All my books are all enrolled in Kindle Unlimited and Free to read for KU.

Happy reading!

Best wishes,


www.IsabelleHardesty.com

What it Means to Be A Witch – A Look into Juliette’s World – YA Fantasy Novel Own Voices #ownvoices

 

 

For Juliette, nature is part of her magic. Her favorite place in the world is the swamp. Its sounds, aroma, and views make her heart leap. Victor Hernandez, her drop-dead gorgeous best friend makes her heart leap, too.

The two of them discover that there is more than the love of the swamp between them as magic takes over both of their lives.

Magic is a way for Juliette to help her sick aunt. As she learns who she really is, magic becomes a two-sided force that scares her. She’s both Destroyer and Healer witch and fears that the Destroyer side is pulling her in, deeper and deeper.

She grows in magic as it lifts her to new experiences in her life. It allows her to try new things and find her strength.

Magic is life. When she’s at death’s door, nature’s magic saves her, linking her to a force greater than herself.

To read the first two chapters of The Witch of Belle Fleur for free, click here and go to the “Look Inside” feature above the book cover.

As always, thank you for stopping by!
Have a magical day!

 

 

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.

 

Blackberry Bushes and Book Updates!

The blackberry bushes are finally ripening! I really thought it would happen quicker, but it’s been nice watching Mother Nature take her time and make these beauties. This is my first year seeing the process!

It’s FREE BOOK TIME! Jade’s Descent, Book 2, in the Delacourt Shapeshifter Trilogy is free today! Grab it now and, while you’re at it, grab Books 1 and 3 while they’re both on sale. Please spread the word and share the savings!

Jade's Descent: YA Paranormal Fantasy Shapeshifters & Fairies (Delacourt Shapeshifter Trilogy Book 2) by [Isabelle Hardesty]
Jade’s Descent FREE BOOK!
(BOOK 2 IN A THREE BOOK COMPLETE SERIES)

What’s new? I’m working on Book 2 of the Destroyer Witch Chronicles!  Pre-ordery your copy here.

Haven’t read Book 1, The Witch of Belle Fleur, yet? What are you waiting for? Download your copy today and enjoy the low summer price!

The Witch of Belle Fleur 
➜ Amazon UK
➜ Amazon CAN
➜ Amazon AUS
➜ All other Amazon Stores

Here are links to all my books. Have you read them yet?

Best wishes,

Isabelle
www.IsabelleHardesty.com

Summer and Finding Your Center

 

So much has happened since I wrote that popular blog post, Cheerio on my Mat, back in February.  I don’t have to walk you through what’s been going on in the world. We know all know, too well.

Instead this post is about how I’ve found my way back to my yoga mat in an entirely different way. Previously, my yoga class was in a group of people with an instructor. It was great, it was what I needed at that time.

Now, my yoga practice has evolved into using What’s App, Google Hangouts, and You Tube. Several weeks ago, my neighbor asked me if I’d like to join her and a few of her friends for virtual yoga.

Previously, I had asked my niece, who is a yoga instructor, if she could recommend a yoga instructor on You Tube. She recommended Adriene, but between writing, running after my toddler, and regular day-to-day activities, I had forgotten to follow up and actually get on the mat.

So this virtual class was exactly what I needed. I jumped in on day 14 of Adriene’s 30 Days of Yoga. It was great as I moved my body and took time to find my center. In two days, we begin again, at day one. I can’t wait!

Maybe it’s a virtual yoga class with a few other people. Maybe it’s something else that finds you. Whatever it is, let it find you.

Please email me at: isabellehardesty (@) gmail dot com with any questions or comments.

~Isabelle

Related blog posts by Isabelle you may enjoy:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

Remember to Notice Spring

As we wonder how much toilet paper we can possibly store in our homes, let’s not forget that spring is here.

Beautiful things are happening right now, while we all deal with everything going on in the world.

Millions of flowers are blooming nearby you. Velvety, new leaves are unfurling for the very first time, greeting the warmth of the sun.

There will only be one spring this year. I am trying to notice the good and the beautiful.

In the middle of all of this, I’ve found yoga again.

I hope that this spring brings peace, health and calm to you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jump into Spring with a New Book!

I am so happy that SPRING is around the corner! Last year I visited the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. It was breathtaking. It was a celebration of color and flowers.  My toddler loved running through the tulip fields and yelling, “Towips!”

What’s your favorite spring flower?

I am so excited about The Witch of Belle Fleur coming out soon! Woo hoo! Click here to pre-order your copy today!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What I’ve been busy with — 

I recently blogged about Five Reasons We Love Telenovelas. I hope you enjoy the post.  I remember watching telenovelas with my mother and sisters. We laughed and cried together.

In my novel, The Witch of Belle Fleur, Juliette is a telenovela actress and a witch! It’s amazing how life inspires authors to create characters and plots!

The Witch of Belle Fleur has had a long journey on its way to my readers’ hands. It has received three book contracts and after much thought,

I decided to go indie! If you’re interested in reading about my book’s journey, please read a guest blog post I wrote for Women In Publishing.

 

Quote I LOVE — 

“Love makes your soul crawl from its hiding place.”
Zora Neale Hurston 

 

Please email me at: isabellehardesty (@) gmail dot com with any questions or comments.

~Isabelle

Related blog posts by Isabelle you may enjoy:

Pre-order your copy of The Witch of Belle Fleur today!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

Adventure in Berry, France – A True Story by Isabelle Hardesty

Sometimes adventure can come around when you least expect it.

Before my trip to Paris, my friend, Margaret said, “Call me when you’re in Paris and we can meet up.”

We both lived in Miami, at the time, and worked together. She told me she would be visiting an old friend who lived in Berry, France. It seemed like a vague situation that I didn’t feel comfortable with.

I told her, “Yeah, sure.”

Honestly, I had no intention of calling her and staying with her friend. I wanted to get away and have a relaxing time, going to museums and seeing Paris. I was ready for a solo vacation—just me, myself, and I.

But, after being there two days, I realized I should give her a call.  I love Paris and had been there a few times, even visiting with my two sisters, in the past. This trip was different. I was in a different place in life and decided to call Margaret. Maybe she would visit Paris before heading back to Miami, I thought.

She answered the phone and asked her friend if I could visit.

Then I hopped on a bullet train and said yes to adventure.

Berry in France (1789).svg

The call led to an amazing few days in Berry. It was like walking into another world.

The home we stayed in was magnificent. It was made of stone and wood and was the home of the family who made the ceramic tiles for the castle beyond the stables and lake.

Yup, you read that correctly.

Needless to say, in the morning as I stood, gazing over the lake, and watching the horses mill about, I pinched myself to confirm that it was not a dream.

An unexpected twist!

Next morning my friend asked me if I would be okay with staying three days more because the family dog, a gorgeous long-haired snow-white dog, ran off.

The hostess, who was so sweet and wonderful, didn’t feel comfortable being alone without her dog. Her husband would return from Paris on Saturday.

I felt a mixture elation and guilt. I hated that a dog might be out there suffering and that I was benefiting from her absence. I stayed the extra three days and had an amazing time.

Yes, I even had tea in the castle! The hostess’s parents owned the castle. Again, I’m telling the truth, here.

Takeaway

There are good people in the world. Wonderful adventures are around the corner. Be open to adventure when it knocks on your door.

My book, The Witch of Belle Fleur, is about a teen who says yes to adventure! She says yes to becoming a telenovela actress and she says yes to becoming a witch.

Juliette is faced with challenges, as we all are, but it’s how she overcomes life’s challenges that’s exciting. She finds that working with others like her is the only way to defeat evil.

I hope you enjoyed my tale of my time in Berry. It is a story I love telling.

Oh, and about that dog—she came home with her new dog boyfriend. I guess she said yes to adventure, too!

Happy reading!

 

About Isabelle Hardesty

Isabelle Hardesty profile image

Isabelle Hardesty Isabelle Hardesty writes stories about people doing magical things and kicking butt. She writes for all readers, and people like her, who didn’t see themselves in their favorite fantasy adventures growing up.

She is the author of The Witch of Belle Fleur, which is part of her book series, The Destroyer Witch Chronicles. Isabelle Hardesty is also the author of The Delacourt Shapeshifter trilogy, Sea Witch High duology, and Viola the Vampire Witch duology.

She lives with her husband and family in Atlanta. For more information at www.IsabelleHardesty.com.