Where Stories Become Art, and Art Tells a Story
The Heart of the Stories of Curio Crusinberry
“Curio Crusinberry” is a name rooted in both meaning and identity.
“Curio” evokes a sense of wonder—something rare, intriguing, and worth discovering. It suggests a collection of unusual or meaningful objects, much like the handcrafted pieces and stories that define the brand. It also carries the spirit of curiosity, inviting exploration, imagination, and a deeper look beneath the surface.
“Crusinberry” ties directly to my name, grounding the creative world in a personal signature while also giving it a slightly whimsical, storybook quality. It feels like something that could belong to a place, a legend, or a character—blurring the line between creator and creation.
Together, “Curio Crusinberry” represents a curated world of wonders—both tangible and literary—where each piece feels discovered rather than made, and every story or object holds a sense of mystery, history, and magic. It reflects my goal of creating work that feels timeless, a little unusual, and full of imagination.
M. M. Crusinberry is a multi-genre author whose work blends myth, folklore, and modern storytelling to explore the boundary between the real and the extraordinary. Her stories are emotionally rich and atmospheric, often unfolding in liminal spaces where magic and meaning surface within the fabric of everyday life. Inspired by global myths and the quiet wonder of existence, she writes tales that invite readers to question perception, embrace curiosity, and rediscover awe.
Across every pen name, one thread connects them all: a love of storytelling that transcends boundaries. Whether writing as M. M. Crusinberry, Raven Foxglove, Gemma Elessar, Helene Nocturne, Isolde Virelle, or Lark Everwild, her mission remains constant — to illuminate the spaces where legends lie, dreams awaken, and the unknown collides with the human heart.
Her stories whisper to dreamers, wanderers, and believers alike — those who understand that the most powerful truths are often hidden within the tales we tell.
M. M. Crusinberry — Where stories linger between what is known and what is possible.
M. M. Crusinberry is a multi-genre author whose storytelling dances between myth and modernity, blending heart, folklore, and imagination into every tale. With a passion for exploring the spaces where truth and legend intertwine, her work invites readers to journey into worlds both wondrous and deeply human.
Crusinberry’s writing often explores the hidden corners of existence — the liminal places where reality brushes against the fantastical, and where the extraordinary hides in plain sight. Her stories are known for their emotional depth, atmospheric settings, and a voice that lingers, asking readers to question what they know… and what they feel.
A lifelong lover of folklore, mysterious creatures, and timeless myths, she draws inspiration from global storytelling traditions and the quiet magic of everyday life. Whether unraveling the secrets of a small-town legend or reimagining the ancient through a modern lens, Crusinberry’s work celebrates the art of wonder and the enduring power of stories.
Raven Foxglove — Fearless stories of love, identity, and becoming unapologetically yourself.
Writing under the pen name Raven Foxglove, Crusinberry gives voice to LGBTQ+ narratives filled with passion, resilience, and authenticity. These stories often merge the lyrical and the bold — a reflection of life lived between boundaries, where identity and love shape new myths of their own.
As Raven Foxglove, she explores queer identity through fantasy, romance, and speculative fiction, offering worlds where every kind of love is valid and every voice deserves to be heard. Her writing honors the beauty, struggle, and triumph of living one’s truth, creating inclusive spaces where readers can find both representation and resonance.
Raven Foxglove’s work is evocative and fearless — celebrating the stories that deserve to be told, the hearts that dare to love loudly, and the magic that exists in being unapologetically yourself.
Helene Nocturne — Dark magic. Slow burn. Dangerous love.
Helene Nocturne is a storyteller of shadows and desire, crafting slow-burn, spicy fantasy that lingers in the mind long after the final page. Inspired by the unknown and all things that go bump in the night, she weaves worlds where magic, danger, and forbidden love collide, drawing readers into realms both haunting and intoxicating.
Isolde Virelle— Alliances are fragile. Desire is not.
Isolde Virelle writes immersive fantasy romance centered on elite courts, rival houses, and the dangerous allure of forbidden connection. Her stories unfold in richly layered worlds where ambition burns bright, loyalties fracture, and every alliance carries a cost. Drawn to the tension between power and vulnerability, she crafts character-driven narratives filled with intricate relationships, slow-burning passion, and high-stakes intrigue.
Gemma Elessar — Step into worlds where magic leads the way to who you truly are.
Under the name Gemma Elessar, Crusinberry turns her storytelling toward young adult and teen readers, crafting emotionally rich adventures filled with courage, curiosity, and self-discovery.
Gemma’s books invite readers into worlds where magic and meaning coexist — where every choice carries weight and every heart holds power. With themes of friendship, transformation, and finding one’s place in a vast, uncertain world, her YA works inspire readers to dream bravely and believe in their own extraordinary potential.
Through the eyes of Gemma Elessar, young readers are reminded that the unknown isn’t something to fear — it’s something to explore.
Lark Everwild — Whimsical adventures for curious hearts and kind imaginations.
Lark Everwild is the children’s pen name of M. M. Crusinberry, an author who writes imaginative stories for young readers ages 5–10. Through whimsical adventures and heartwarming tales, Lark inspires children to explore the world with curiosity, kindness, and creativity. Her stories blend fun facts, positive life lessons, and a touch of everyday magic—encouraging young readers to see the wonder in learning and the joy in being themselves.
FAQ: Your Questions, My Answers!
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Curio Crusinberry is the creative world and signature imprint of M. M. Crusinberry—a space where storytelling and craftsmanship meet. It serves as both an atelier and a narrative haven, bringing together handcrafted pieces and evocative books inspired by folklore, fantasy, and the quiet mysteries woven into everyday life.
Under the Curio Crusinberry name, I unify all of my creative work, including titles written as M. M. Crusinberry, Lark Everwild, and other pen names. This allows every piece—regardless of genre or style—to exist within a cohesive, recognizable realm. You’ll find the Curio Crusinberry logo on the back of every book and on the copyright page within each work, marking it as part of my body of writing and helping to consolidate all of my projects under one creative identity.
Each creation, whether it’s a piece of jewelry, a handcrafted object, or a story on the page, is made with intention and imagination. They share a distinct Curio Crusinberry essence: a blend of myth and modernity, whimsy and depth, shadow and light.
Curio Crusinberry is, at its heart, a place where the fantastical becomes tangible—where stories extend beyond the page and into something you can hold, wear, or experience. It’s created for wanderers, daydreamers, collectors of curiosities, and readers who believe stories aren’t just told—they’re lived.
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“Curio Crusinberry” is a name rooted in both meaning and identity.
“Curio” evokes a sense of wonder—something rare, intriguing, and worth discovering. It suggests a collection of unusual or meaningful objects, much like the handcrafted pieces and stories that define the brand. It also carries the spirit of curiosity, inviting exploration, imagination, and a deeper look beneath the surface.
“Crusinberry” ties directly to my name, grounding the creative world in a personal signature while also giving it a slightly whimsical, storybook quality. It feels like something that could belong to a place, a legend, or a character—blurring the line between creator and creation.
Together, “Curio Crusinberry” represents a curated world of wonders—both tangible and literary—where each piece feels discovered rather than made, and every story or object holds a sense of mystery, history, and magic. It reflects my goal of creating work that feels timeless, a little unusual, and full of imagination.
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My primary passion lies in writing for the YA and teen audience, where I feel most connected to the voice, themes, and emotional resonance of the stories. At the same time, I’ve enjoyed exploring a range of genres as a way to grow creatively and challenge myself as a writer. To keep each project aligned with its intended tone and readership while still allowing that creative flexibility, I write under multiple pen names. This approach lets me experiment freely while maintaining clear distinctions between audiences and styles.
Academically, I hold a BA in History and English, followed by an MBA—fields that are deeply rooted in writing, analysis, and communication. This background has given me extensive time and structure to practice, refine, and strengthen my craft. You’ll see the influence of that training throughout my work, particularly in how I weave historical elements into my storytelling. Whether I’m writing historical fiction or drawing on legend and folklore to shape fictional worlds, history remains a constant thread.
I’ve been blending history and fantasy since my college days, where lectures, research, and long hours in the library helped shape my narrative voice. It’s a voice steeped in old maps, half-remembered myths, and the quiet atmosphere of the stacks. Folklore, fantasy, and even touches of conspiracy feel like natural companions to me—each offering a way to pull back the surface of the world and uncover the hidden stories stitched beneath it.
I also make a point to experiment with themes and ideas that capture my interest, whether they’re long-standing passions or momentary sparks of inspiration. While science fiction isn’t typically my primary focus, I’ve ventured into it when inspiration struck—writing two pieces inspired by my fascination with sharks and their almost theatrical, larger-than-life presence, as well as a story exploring the concept of AI taking over. I see my writing as an evolving practice; when an idea excites me, I pursue it. That willingness to explore and adapt continues to shape both my voice and the scope of my work.
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My primary passion lies in writing for the YA and teen audience, where I feel most connected to the themes, voice, and emotional depth of the stories. At the same time, I’ve enjoyed exploring a range of other genres as a way to grow creatively and challenge myself as a writer. To ensure each project remains appropriate in tone, style, and intended readership, I’ve chosen to write under different pen names. This approach allows me to experiment freely while maintaining clear boundaries for my audience and presenting each body of work in a way that aligns with its unique voice and genre.
Additionally, since I do have a children’s collection I do not want there to be confusion with inappropriateness.
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You can purchase my books from my Amazon author storefront: Amazon Storefront — M. M. Crusinberry. There you'll find the full collection, from whimsical beginnings to more ambitious tales, plus curated selections and bundles to suit whether you're just getting started or expanding your reading shelf. Everything on the storefront is chosen to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
All of my books are in KDP select which makes them free to read if you have a kindle membership and I also have a week every quarter where my books are free on kindle.
Most are also available in paperback, as long as the length allowed.
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I’m currently self-publishing my work, but I’m eager to collaborate with a literary agent to pursue a traditional publishing deal that would allow for broader distribution and large-scale production.
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I design my own digital materials, including book covers, logos, and website elements. Over time, I’ve continually refined my approach, developing a stronger eye for layout, branding, and visual storytelling. I’ve been interested in and practicing digital design for over twenty years, and I genuinely enjoy the creativity it allows me to bring into my work as an author.
Beyond my writing, I’ve also applied these skills in my professional career in human resources, where I’ve created infographics, presentations, logos, and cohesive branded materials. This experience has strengthened both my technical ability and my understanding of clear, effective design. I currently use Canva as my primary design tool, but I also have experience working with Adobe products, which has given me a well-rounded foundation in digital design.
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Yes, I am available for ghostwriting, editing, and digital design services. I also offer website design and hosting. Please check out our Services page for more in-depth service descriptions.
If you’re interested, please reach out through the contact request form on the Services page. No matter your budget, I’m confident we can find a solution that works for you.

