Shannon here: Darlene Corbett shares a romantic excerpt from her Women’s Fiction title, Visible. Comment or answer the question in any post dated Jan 15th – 31st to enter the drawing for a print copy plus 3 other titles. Deadline: Feb 7th, 11:59 pm central time. Here’s Darlene:
Excerpt from Visible by Darlene Corbett:
Yes, it works. Mama, you’d be proud. She took one more glimpse of herself, put her hands above her head, and snapped her fingers. “Olé!” Now Rachel strolled to the studio and spotted Michael coming toward her.
His eyes shined, and he took her hands and examined her from head to toe. “You look stunning.”
Rachel’s eyes roamed over her partner. “You look pretty fabulous yourself.” She examined his attire—a white, open-collared shirt with an expensive-looking black jacket and trousers, sharp black shoes peeking out. His silver mane displayed a recent trim with length in the back. His unusual eyes sparkled.
“Shall we head in?” He reached for her arm and tucked it under his, and they entered the studio.
Rachel sizzled like an electric current. The music and chatter synchronized with colorful clothing. Women twirled in their wide dresses, and men bowed to them. She turned to Michael, and his eyes locked onto hers.
“Again, you look ravishing. I pale in comparison.” He bowed and took her hand to kiss it without shifting his gaze.
Rachel’s cheeks blazed, and she shifted her eyes. “I can’t wait to start.” “Yes, I’m looking forward to dancing with you this evening.”
Michael glanced at her feet. “Have you been practicing those basic steps?”
“A little, doctor, but if you want to know the truth, I haven’t ventured out to something this elaborate in a very long time, so I’m a bit nervous.”
Michael cocked his head, about to say something until loud clapping interrupted.
Guillermo bounded on the dance floor in a black costume, entwined with silver and jewels, matching his ebony hair threaded with gray strands. As usual, he radiated and dazzled the crowd as he provided a few announcements. With a big smile and in his melodic Spanish accent, he said. “Be courteous, my amigos. Newer people stay on the outskirts of the dance floor.”
With his hands behind his back, Guillermo roamed the room. “But remember, all of us were once beginners. Be polite to newbies.” The lights dimmed. Guillermo clapped his hands and waved everyone forward.
Rachel peeked at Michael, and he took her arm, leading her away from the advanced dancers.
“Señora, are you ready?” Michael turned his palm out, and Rachel placed her hand in his.
“I think so.” My hand in his. So, so sensual…. Rachel? They positioned their arms, and music filled the studio. For the next ninety minutes, Rachel concentrated on Michael’s movements and focused on the basic steps. With laughs and fumbles, she followed him and tried ignoring the powerful hands that guided her. We fit well together—as dance partners, that is.
Lights flashed. Intermission. Michael grabbed her hand and led her to a seat.
Sensations of scintillating colors blended and flowed through her.
Michael removed his jacket and touched Rachel’s chin. “Going to get some bottled water for both us. I’ll be back.”
She smiled. “Meet you back here,” and pointed to the restroom.
He walked over to the refreshment table, and Rachel sauntered into the women’s room.
Reader Question: Has there ever been a time when you have felt invisible?
January Book Bundle #2
My Journey in Fiction Writing by R.F. Whong, Nonfiction, Newsletter signup download
A Heart to Protect by Judith McNees, Contemporary Romance, e-book
Hidden Talent by Bettie Boswell, Romantic Suspense, e-book
Visible by Darlene Corbett, Romantic Women’s Fiction, print
About Darlene: Darlene Corbett has been serving others as a licensed psychotherapist for over thirty years.
With her wealth of experience in human behavior, she decided to write down her thoughts to inspire a larger audience. This set the stage for her book, Stop Depriving The World of You, published by Sound Wisdom in 2018.
She continued writing nonfiction until she heard God whisper again. And his call prompted her to take a risk and dip her toes into fiction. Visible, a women’s fiction about second chances, was published by WordCrafts Press in the spring of 2024, and in August, she won the 2024 Storytrade Book Awards for Christian Fiction in the Contemporary category.
And right now? Her contemporary romance, Mesermerize, will be published in February of 2026 which has themes of a modern-day, Christian Scheherazade story.
Her writing continues with two romantic suspense novels. Enthralled, which takes place in Mykenos, has been completed but needs editing. A Midnight Call, located in a small fictional town in central Massachusetts, has almost reached the finishing line.
When not writing or seeing clients, Darlene immerses herself in a variety of novels and tries to support other authors of faith. In addition, she loves animals with dogs being number one. Taking care of her beloved Shih Tzu, Stevie, puts a smile on her face.
Being a life-long learner, she’s attempting a second language and remains a nerd at heart. Pilates, staying fit, traveling, and connecting with her inner circle also take priority.
Darlene belongs to many organizations, including the ACFW, FHL-CW, and WFWA.
She lives in Central Massachusetts with Stevie, and remains excited about the next chapter of her life.
To receive her short story, a magical romance, sign up for her newsletter at Darlene’s Website
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About Rachel: Rachel Karem, a 58-year-old widowed female therapist, immerses herself in work and little else. Ignoring her own needs, she focuses on her clients, hoping to help them heal from their broken lives. A few are most wounded and cannot get beyond the past, so she offers them an opportunity to partake in a short-term, group therapy experience.
Matt, Jason, and Yardley agree to the experiment with the resistant Shalene and Sapphire, joining them.
While Rachel navigates the group, it forces her to examine her solitary life. Her therapist and two close friends encourage her to step outside her comfort zone, so she does. Tango dancing beckons her, and during her first visit, she encounters a man who takes an interest in her. Over the next few months, Rachel becomes more open to the possibility of greater fulfillment as she watches group members become receptive to theirs.
The story is not only about five people guided by a therapist to overcome obstacles, but it becomes Rachel’s personal journey. She comes to understand that she too can achieve greater fulfillment and have a second chance at love.
Can’t wait for the drawing? Worried you won’t win? Interested in Darlene’s other titles?
Need extra copies for gifts? Get your copy/copies now!
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Come back Jan 31st for Shannon’s Book Bargains Roundup!
Thank you so much, Shannon. I appreciate and hope everyone enjoys Rachel’s journey.
Interesting question. I would say yes…when my presence, effort, or heart wasn’t acknowledged. It can be especially heavy in seasons where you’re serving quietly, supporting others, or carrying responsibilities without recognition.