From the Hart

Posted By: Janet Hart Leonard March 9, 2026

What if …

  • You could read a book that would calm your anxious heart and help you navigate life as a people-pleaser and fixer?
  • You were told you could put down all the hoops you’ve been jumping through and rest?
  • Someone told you it was okay to enjoy quiet moments with a cup of coffee under a cozy blanket, or to meander through the countryside on a Sunday afternoon?
  • Someone understands your grief as you walk alongside a friend who has been given a life-threatening diagnosis and whose prayers are not being answered in the way you both want?
  • Someone could spare you the mistakes she made in the past, saving you from hurt and aggravation?
  • Someone gave you the go-ahead to do something that your family and friends thought was crazy?
  • The wisdom someone had gained over 70 years were shared in a book?

I could not find a book with all of those things, so I wrote one. I’d love to introduce you to my second book, From the Hart: Two Decades of Columns, Kindness, and Kitchen-Table Wisdom.

I did my research by revisiting my newspaper columns, searching scriptures, and gathering my thoughts. I researched definitions, emotional conditions and why we feel the way we do about things. I figured out why I am the way I am. Could I help others do the same?

One of my favorite gifts to give to family and friends is short-read books that hug the heart. I wanted to write one that others could give to their friends and family: 114 pages available in paperback or hardcover, as well as an e-book.

Guess what? It is now on Amazon, BUT in a few weeks, several Noblesville stores will have it available for purchase: Thistle and Thyme, The Annex, Living Truth, Chapter One Book Lounge, and the Gratitude Boutique on 96th Street. Go to tinyurl.com/FromTheHartJHL to buy it on Amazon.

Follow me on social media or at my website, JanetHartLeonard.com, to see where and when I will be signing books. I have begun scheduling booksignings and speaking events for book clubs, church groups, retreats, and neighborhood gatherings. You can reach me at janethartleonard@gmail.com.

Just so you can see what I am writing about, I am including the chapters from my book.

I include three questions after every chapter for discussion or reflection. You will find five of my favorite Southern Comfort Recipes at the end of the book.

Can I ask a favor? Please order today or tomorrow. This helps me be ranked as a best seller. Also, if you would be so kind as to write a review after reading it, it would mean the world to me. I won’t ever be a New York Times Bestseller, but having good reviews and strong sales on Amazon is a big deal in the world of authors. I thank you all for your kindness in doing so. It is hard for me to ask this favor.

Janet Hart Leonard’s newest book, From the Hart, is available on Amazon. Go to tinyurl.com/FromTheHartJHL to get your copy. (Graphic provided)

I am excited to introduce you to From the Hart.

Vintage Wisdom

  1. Finding Wisdom
  2. Dear Younger Janet
  3. When I’m Overwhelmed
  4. The Power of a Gentle Voice
  5. From Let them to Let Me
  6. The Power of Five
  7. The Power of Ponderings
  8. Lead Me Not to Be a Fixer
  9. Declining the Invitation
  10. The Power of Words
  11. Finding Joy in the Quiet
  12. Don’t Be Ugly

Meandering Thoughts

  1. Beginning With the New
  2. Meandering Thoughts
  3. Finding Heavenly Peace
  4. Even If
  5. The Affirmations
  6. When God Gives You a Dream
  7. Sustaining Grace
  8. But I have the Right to Be Angry
  9. Empty-Heart Syndrome
  10. It Takes A Village
  11. Could I Have This Dance
  12. She

Final Thoughts … for now.

Southern Comfort Recipes

  • Chocolate Gravy
  • Fruit Cocktail Cake
  • Sugar Cream Pie
  • Taco Stew
  • Yummy Crunchy Salad

Janet Hart Leonard can be contacted at janethartleonard@gmail.com or followed on Facebook or Instagram (@janethartleonard). She is the recipient of the Reporter’s Spring 2025 Ink-Stained Wretch award. Visit janethartleonard.com.

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