Words that Heal, Stories that Endure
Hi, I’m L. Melissa Smith, an author, publisher, and lifelong storyteller with a heart for faith, emotional wellness, and the hidden stories that make us who we are.
I write both fiction and nonfiction that explore how grace can bloom in unexpected places, even through heartbreak, doubt, and change. My books invite readers to slow down, reflect, and rediscover hope through stories that feel deeply human and spiritually rich.
The Heart Behind My Writing
For me, writing isn’t just about telling stories: it’s about transformation. Every word is an invitation to look deeper, to find beauty where others might see brokenness, and to believe that God’s grace can reach even the quiet corners of our hearts.
Through my imprint, Grace to Bloom Publishing, I create and share books that uplift, encourage, and preserve voices that deserve to be heard. Whether I’m writing about biblical laughter, untold history, or the complexities of love and faith, my goal is the same: to help readers find light and purpose in their own stories.
A Few of My Works
Raven’s Altar — a dramatic novel of faith, love, and emotional awakening.
Graven Images — a deeply researched biography of the sculptor Selma Hortense Burke, whose portrait of FDR graces the U.S. dime.
Love in Disguise — a suspenseful story of temptation, redemption, and spiritual resilience.
I’m currently working on Jeers & Joy: Understanding the Full Spectrum of Biblical Laughter, a book exploring how humor, irony, and divine joy appear throughout Scripture.
Beyond the Page
When I’m not writing, I’m always doing something. I work full-time as a librarian, a role that feeds my curiosity and love of learning. Between researching for my books, planning marketing ideas, and managing publishing projects, my days stay wonderfully full.
To unwind, I head to the Outer Banks. There’s something about that peaceful stretch of North Carolina coast that helps me breathe, reflect, and find balance. One of my younger coworkers once joked that I must have ADHD because I never sit still, and maybe they’re right. I just believe there’s always something meaningful to do, and life’s too short not to keep creating.
About L. Melissa Smith
Let’s Stay Connected
If you believe words can heal and stories can change lives, I’d love to stay in touch.
Join my newsletter, The Hive, for uplifting reflections, early book news, and creative inspiration.
