From Invisible to Irresistible: A Story of Chance and Connection

Fiction Inspired by a Writing Prompt! + Book Recs & Award News!

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Short Story | Foray into Romance | Literary Fiction | Writing Process | Book Reviews | Book Recommendations ❤️ LIKE · COMMENT · SHARE 🤲🏾

Hello everyone,

Welcome back to Scarlet Writes! This week, I'm thrilled to share a brand new short story with you all: "Flight Pattern," which was released earlier this week. This tale is about unexpected encounters, the journey from feeling unseen to realizing your potential, and the surprising ways life can change in an instant, even at 30,000 feet.

(For paid subscribers: The whole story, "Flight Pattern," is waiting for you below. A fantastic writing prompt sparked this story focused on "Changes," I'd love to hear what resonated with you in the comments!)

"Flight Pattern" was inspired by those moments in life when you feel like a bit of an afterthought, squeezed into a situation you didn't plan for. I think many of us can relate to that feeling of being overlooked or struggling to find our footing, much like Nadia at the beginning of the story.

Story Inspiration and Ignition

The initial idea for "Flight Pattern" came from Idea 4 in "May's Writing Prompts: Ch-Changes" published in Medium's Fiction Writers’ Den. This prompt encouraged exploring a significant change triggered by an unexpected event. It got me thinking about how a seemingly ordinary disruption, like a flight cancellation, could lead to extraordinary and unforeseen connections.

More Behind the Scenes:

• Character Development: I was particularly interested in the contrast between Nadia's initial feelings of invisibility and the quiet confidence she discovers within herself. Kamal acts as a mirror, reflecting her potential in a way she hadn't seen before.

• The Power of Observation: Notice how Kamal truly sees Nadia, listening intently and offering insightful observations. It highlights the impact of genuine attention and belief from another person. There’s something so sexy when someone embodying the ‘in crowd’ takes notice of a wallflower.

• Setting the Scene: The confined space of the airplane cabin becomes an unlikely crucible for connection, stripping away pretenses and forcing vulnerability. One of my favorite scenes from a plane was in *Stone Cold Surrender by Brenda Jackson.

Question for you: Have you ever had an unexpected encounter that significantly impacted your life? What was it, and what did you learn from it? Share your stories in the comments – I'd love to read them!

Author on Air!

The

Trinidad and Tobago Government Communications

Office Interviewed Scarlet Ibis James

I got candid in this lively 3.5-minute radio chat—sharing what inspired my emotionally charged Scarlet Birthright. From Caribbean rhythms to global longing, I teased the kind of storytelling, shared ideas for aspiring writers, and gushed about the Bocas Lit Fest.

Ready to dive in? Scarlet Birthright is available for pickup or delivery from Scribbles and Quills, Paper Based Bookshop and around the world!

Book Recommendations!

Lately, I've had the pleasure of diving into some truly captivating reads, and I wanted to share a couple that I think you might enjoy:

• *The Homeless Analyst: A Collection of Short Stories by Berli Brenson: Like my first book, this is a collection of standalone short stories. Each one arrested my attention and made me think about how I treat or judge people based on appearances. It’s a fabulous, quick read. ★★★★★

• *When We Talk to God: Prayers and Poems for Black Women by Sharifa Stevens: I have been eagerly awaiting

  Sharifa
  ’s book! This past week, I started listening to it on Audible (Get it here). As a backsliding Catholic, averse to organized religion, actively resisting spiritual beliefs used to colonize my mind, and the first one to call on the ‘Good Lord’ when I am frustrated, my relationship to ‘God’ is complicated. But, Stevens hooked me from the Introduction when she swept all my protestations away to clear a path to open my heart. I’m listening. Join me?

I always love to hear what you're reading, too, so feel free to share your recommendations in the comments!

Exciting News for Scarlet Yearnings!

I'm absolutely thrilled to announce that my novel, Scarlet Yearnings, was a finalist for the 2025 American Legacy Book Award in the Multicultural Fiction category! This is such an honor, and I'm so grateful for the recognition. Thank you to all of you who have supported Scarlet Yearnings and my writing journey. (All the Winners & Finalists)

For Paid Subscribers This Week:

• Full Short Story: "Flight Pattern."

• Bonus Snippet: An early scene that didn't make it into the final version, where Nadia reflects on her career frustrations before the fateful flight.

• Author's Note: I'll be sharing some of my thoughts on the themes of visibility and self-worth explored in "Flight Pattern," as well as how the writing prompt influenced the story's direction.

• Interactive Poll: What do you think is the MOST likely focus or key feature that will make Nadia's app "revolutionary"?

Special Offer for Readers!

I'm excited to share a special promotion through StoryOrigin! Until May 31, you can grab some fantastic reads by other authors in my network. Discover your next favorite book here: Link to StoryOrigin Promo.

Thank you for being a part of the Scarlet Writes community. Your engagement and support truly fuel my writing.

Happy Reading and Aşę,
Scarlet Ibis James

© Scarlet Ibis James, 2025: All Rights Reserved.

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.

Certainly, I can’t conclude this book note without a shameless plug for my own lineup of books. You can get them all at www.scarletibisjames.com.

❤️ LIKE · COMMENT · SHARE 🤲🏾

Flight Patterns

By Scarlet Ibis James

Escape into "Seat 14B," a sizzling Caribbean romance where fate, faith, and a turbulent flight transform tech consultant Nadia Ramkissoon's life forever. When this brilliant but overlooked dark-skinned beauty meets commanding restaurateur Kamal Hafeez mid-air, neither expects the electric connection that follows. Journey from New York to Trinidad and Tobago as professional success and passionate romance intertwine, proving that sometimes the most powerful love stories begin with truly being seen. Perfect for fans of stories with emotional depth and multicultural romance featuring strong professional women finding both success and love against all odds. #TrinidadianRomance #MulticulturalLoveStory

THANK YOU FOR READING + LIKING + COMMENTS + SHARING

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