Welcome to Behind the Quill

Every story begins with a spark — sometimes it’s an idea that keeps you awake at night, and sometimes it’s a puppy in a Halloween costume.

Ruby Quill Books began right here in DeLand, Florida, with a front-porch tradition that grew bigger than expected. Each Halloween, while other houses handed out candy, I offered something extra — a full-size candy bar and a book. I loved the idea that every trick-or-treater could leave with something sweet for their hands and something magical for their imagination.

One October night, as I set out the books, I realized I wanted to hand out one of my own. A story that kids could love, laugh with, and maybe even see themselves in. That’s how Miles’ First Howl-o-ween was born — a tale about a curious Cavalier puppy experiencing his very first Halloween in sunny Florida. What started as one small story became the heartbeat of Ruby Quill Books: creating stories that mix humor, warmth, and a touch of everyday magic.

Here at Ruby Quill, that’s what we believe in — stories with heart. The kind that remind you to look twice at the world around you, to laugh at small surprises, and to notice the wonder tucked inside ordinary days.

This blog, Behind the Quill, is a cozy corner where I’ll share the creative journey behind our books — from first sparks of imagination to final printed pages. You’ll find peeks into upcoming projects, insights about the writing process, and maybe a few puppy-sized adventures along the way.

Thanks for stopping by and for sharing in the beginning of this adventure. I can’t wait to show you what comes next — because every story, big or small, begins with a little bit of wonder.

From a ruby quill, the world unfolds.