A New Chapter Begins Local Author Unveils Her Second Novel

A New Chapter Begins

 Local Author Unveils Her Second Novel

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

Megan Smedley, a local writer and the Assistant Director of Public Relations and Alumni Engagement at ACTC, is back with the second installment of her small-town romance series, Worth It. Smedley’s journey as a writer began in her childhood and has grown into a passion she balances with her busy life in Olive Hill, Kentucky, where she lives with her husband, Josh, and their three children: Savannah, age six and twins Lincoln and Logan, age two).

"I spend most of my time writing while I’m on the couch trying to get them back to sleep," Smedley laughed. "All my writing happens in a GoogleDoc on my phone. It’s nuts!"

Smedley’s first book, Worth Fighting For, was released in January 2025, and her second book, Worth Staying For, came out in March 2025. Both are part of the Worth It series, with the latest novel serving as a standalone while still connecting to the first book’s characters.

While Smedley’s books are contemporary small-town romances, her love of writing has deep roots. She credits her fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Debbie Boling, with nurturing her passion. "I have loved writing since I was a kid," she shared. "Back in the good old days, fourth grade was the first year that students had to complete a writing portfolio as a part of state assessment. I became obsessed with the revision process, and no matter how undeniably annoying I became, Mrs. Boling always encouraged me. She cultivated that love instead of squashing it. My love of writing came because she nurtured me and allowed me to feel like my words mattered."

Both of Smedley’s books are written from dual points of view, offering readers an in-depth look at the emotional journeys of the characters. “I hope readers walk away from my books feeling seen, encouraged, and reminded that the happily ever after is worth chasing,” Smedley noted. “If a reader finishes one of my books and feels like they just spent time with people who understand them, who made them laugh, cry, and maybe even pray—I’ll count that as a win every time.”

Looking ahead, Smedley is already working on book three in the Worth It series, though she doesn’t yet have a release date. “It will also feature characters from Worth Fighting For,” she shared with a smile.

One of her favorite aspects of being a writer is the deep emotional connections she creates between characters and how those connections resonate with her readers. "There’s something so powerful about putting feelings into words, especially when those words bring comfort, hope, or even just a smile,” she stated. "It’s such a blessing to be able to tell stories that matter.”

For aspiring writers, Smedley has some words of encouragement: “Don’t be afraid to put your words out there! There was a time when the publishing process was intimidating, but with self-publishing, that’s no longer the case! I would encourage anyone who has a story to tell to share it, because you never know the impact it might make on someone’s life.”

Fans of her work can purchase her books on Amazon and keep up with her signings and upcoming releases by following her author page on Facebook. Smedley recently wrapped up a series of book signings at public libraries in Lewis and Carter counties, ACTC, and CoffeeTree Books in Morehead. She plans to schedule more events for Worth Staying For in the near future.

As Smedley continues her journey as a writer, it’s clear that her books not only entertain but inspire readers to pursue their own dreams, all while showing that even in the chaos of daily life, there’s always time to chase a happily ever after.