RELEASE DAY: FOUND BY CANDLELIGHT by SHAYLIN M. MONARCH!

 Hey everyone! I'm thrilled to wish Shaylin M. Monarch the happiest release day for Found by Candlelight, the first book to release in The Candlelit Tales! This is a classic reimagining of Swan Lake. I can personally say that this book is absolutely beautiful and so much fun to read! Read on for an interview by Shaylin M. Monarch as well. 

ABOUT THE BOOK

By day, Odelia Voss works as an apothecarist, crafting remedies for the people of Swan Haven. But time is running out to find a cure of her own as night after night, she is cursed to live a nightmare.

Westley Darrington, former soldier, is called upon as a ‘Knight’ of the Realm to visit the quaint town of Swan Haven in order to track down and dispose of a rumored beast living there. 

Their paths cross and a bond is formed between their shared interest in legends and magic. But the challenges they face will threaten not only their friendship, but their lives.

Release Date: October 20, 2026

The Candlelit Tales series is a collection of seasonal historical fantasy novellas. Each story is written by a different author and can be enjoyed in any order. 

Order Link: https://books2read.com/u/bOBAZ9

Check out The Candlelit Tales in full: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0HHQXSDZV

Now for the interview! Thanks to Shaylin for taking the time to chat!

1. Why did you choose to write a story based on Swan Lake? 

Shaylin: I really enjoyed watching the 1994 animated movie, The Swan Princess, when I was young. It was magical, and beautiful, with a hint of melancholy, but also funny and hopeful. When brainstorming what to write for this collection, Swan Lake was the obvious choice for me. 

2. What was your favorite part about integrating the fall season in your novella? 

Shaylin: I adore fall but am always a bit sad to lose hours of sunlight and once I had the idea for Odelia's curse, the season became another level of depth for it. Since her curse is triggered by the setting of the sun, it unfortunately happens sooner in the fall and winter, leaving her with less time in the day. I imagined her sense of desperation growing with the changing leaves. I loved that the season became so tightly woven into the plot. 

3. What is the heart, the core, behind your story? What do you want readers to remember? 

Shaylin: At the core, my story is one of hope. A reminder to keep reaching for the light, to keep believing there are still good things ahead, despite the horrors and hurt we've lived. 

This is such a beautiful book, and a beautiful interview as well! Make sure to order your copy today.