What Inspired Melanie Stevenson to Write “Where My Heart Belongs”?
When inspiration strikes, it often does so in the most unexpected places. For award-winning author Melanie Stevenson, the idea for her novella Wher...
Keep ReadingWhen inspiration strikes, it often does so in the most unexpected places. For award-winning author Melanie Stevenson, the idea for her novella Where My Heart Belongs—part of the I’ll Be Home Christmas anthology—was born on a road trip with her writer friends, affectionately known as the Fab Four. Returning from a writer’s conference, they toyed with the idea of writing an anthology together. Since Melanie had just completed a rom-com manuscript, it was a natural choice to continue in the same genre. Each author selected a Canadian setting, and Melanie chose the charming city of Quebec. One morning, as she awoke, the first line of the story came to her. She grabbed her phone, started typing, and three hours later, she had the foundation of a heartwarming Christmas tale.
Melanie Stevenson is a gifted storyteller who seamlessly blends humor, depth, and faith in her writing. Born in England, Melanie immigrated to Canada at the age of five, settling in Southern Ontario. Her love for British tea and gardens remains a cherished part of her identity. As a child, she was captivated by books, art, and storytelling, penning her first novel at the age of twelve. She later pursued her passion for literature and the arts at the University of Waterloo, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts.
Since becoming a Christian at eighteen, Melanie has poured her faith into her writing. Her debut novel, One More Tomorrow, was inspired by years of journaling her prayers and reflections. This novel, which had its first line conceived in an airport terminal, won Best Romance at the 2020 Word Guild Awards. That same year, she was honored as Best New Canadian Author. Her second book, Soul Focus – Trials, a collection of devotionals, was released in November 2019. Where My Heart Belongs is her first novella, released in November 2024 as part of the I’ll Be Home anthology—a heartwarming Christmas collaboration.
Like many writers, Melanie’s ideas often emerge during the most mundane moments—while driving, cooking, or even folding laundry. Knowing that inspiration can be fleeting, she keeps a notebook handy or records her thoughts on her phone. A snippet of dialogue, a single sentence, or an intriguing scene is enough to set the creative wheels in motion. By the time she sits down to write, she already has a sense of where the story is headed. However, she allows room for spontaneity, letting her characters steer the narrative in unexpected directions. Even on uninspired days, Melanie commits to sitting at her desk—trusting that the words will come.
For Melanie, one of the most rewarding aspects of writing is connecting with readers. The response to Where My Heart Belongs has been particularly touching. Several readers reached out to share that her story made them both laugh and cry—a testament to the emotional depth she infuses into her work. Knowing that her words bring joy and warmth to others is what makes the writing journey worthwhile.
In addition to her writing, Melanie is a talented abstract painter, working with acrylics and oils. Her love for the arts extends to theatre, where she has spent over twenty-five years writing, directing, and teaching acting classes for both young people and adults.
Melanie and her husband, Ralph, are proud parents to four amazing children: Kurtis, Konnor, Elanna, and Keira. For eighteen years, Melanie homeschooled her children, passing on her love of the arts and nurturing their creativity. She is deeply passionate about sharing the healing love of Jesus and championing others in their faith journey through both the written and spoken word.
For those who love engaging stories with heart, humor, and faith, Melanie’s work is a must-read. Stay connected with her writing journey by visiting her website www.melaniestevenson.com and subscribing to her newsletter at https://scentofheaven.me/subscribe/.
