Discover 5 Valentine's moments inspired by romance novels. From grand gestures to spicy scenes, see how readers bring bookish magic to real life.

January arrives like a sleepy friend in mismatched pajamas, but I have learned to love its quiet charm. Winter slows everything down in a way that feels strangely perfect for writing romance. I settle in with a blanket and something warm to drink, and the stillness helps me slip into deeper emotional scenes. I also give myself a softer routine. Shorter writing sessions and small wins feel much more natural this time of year. Even a few hundred words can spark momentum.

As I look back on 2025, I’m reflecting on the lessons that shaped me as a romance author, from creative growth to the importance of rest and connection. Looking ahead to 2026, I’m setting a mix of personal and writing goals designed to nurture my creativity, strengthen my routines and bring new stories to life.

Love is the heartbeat behind every story I write. It’s messy, real, and full of hope. Through my characters, I explore connection, courage, and the beauty of being seen and chosen. I write for anyone who still believes love is worth the risk, no matter how many times the heart has been broken. Because love, imperfect and brave, will always be the reason I write.

This blog explores unforgettable real-life proposals and the magic behind them. As an author, I love imagining how my characters propose. Proposals are full of suspense, joy, and surprise. Real-life moments are often messy, spontaneous, and deeply personal, showing that love stories are alive in every unique way.

"Pets don’t just fill space in romance novels—they reveal character, amplify emotion, and sometimes even play matchmaker. A wagging tail or muddy pawprint can leave just as big a mark on readers’ hearts as the love story itself."

Explore the most popular romance genres and tropes, including contemporary, fantasy, historical, and dark romance. From friends to lovers to forbidden love, this guide breaks down what makes every love story irresistible.

Let’s bust some of the most common myths about romance writing!

Behind the first kiss in The Refusal is a turning point for Janus and Jo. He holds back, giving her space, but when she leans in, everything changes. Writing from his POV let me show his vulnerability, her choice, and the spark that shifts their relationship from hesitation to desire.

Discover why the Readers’ Favorite Book Award is a powerful opportunity for indie romance authors. Learn how it offers professional reviews, marketing exposure, and real credibility to help your book stand out.

Discover top romance book awards perfect for indie authors! Not all contests are created equal—some favor traditional publishing or focus on profit. This guide highlights reputable, indie-friendly romance book awards that offer real visibility and recognition. If you're a self-published romance author ready to showcase your love story, these are the awards worth your time. Get the recognition your book deserves and stand out in the indie romance world.

The Outcast has been doing better in the book awards than I anticipated, having been shortlisted for six awards to date. And I'm surprised. With the drugs and the crazy behaviour, I thought perhaps Fabian was too over the top for a book award. Readers can react in funny ways, and there are some people, I discovered, for whom drugs are a complete no-no. And I understand that - don't we all have things that we hate in books? In romance, cheating is one of mine. For some of you

I've had some lovely feedback on The Refusal from men. And I guess it surprised me, it shouldn't have done, but sometimes it's difficult to see past our own biases, not to mention all my lovely female readers! But I love having my preconceived notions of who might read my book challenged. " Terrific start for a new author. Intriguing romance woven into a solid story; both worth the read . A very good debut novel from a talented author. I’d call this an explicit romance or an

Gemini said Delighted that The Refusal earned an honorable mention in General Fiction at this prestigious London book award! A huge win for romance. See the full list of winners here.

A lot of the systems around the publishing industry are, at best, manipulated. I have bought many a romance book on the basis of stellar reviews, only to find that it's not that great. Or its first few chapters are excellent, written so it appears good on the Amazon "look inside" feature.

The Wishing Shelf Awards review The Refusal. A sexy, contemporary romance with a fierce heroine and a man who thinks he can get anything he wants.

Go behind the scenes of The Refusal! Discover the viral Chapter 34 sex scene secrets, reader edits, and how to get the exclusive unedited bonus content.

Indies Today Award winner. The Refusal. A sexy, contemporary romance with a fierce heroine and a man who thinks he can get anything he wants.

Discover heartfelt messages from readers of romance novels and explore their genuine feedback. Dive into a message from reader that truly resonates.

When I first wrote The Refusal, two of the main characters, Janus and his best friend from college, Fabian, meet on the Brooklyn Bridge. Fabian is something of a mess and Janus thinks about how he is expecting to see him thrown out of a car onto the sidewalk. Every year I visit New York to see one of my best friends, John, and when I went to the Brooklyn Bridge on a location scouting trip, I realised (as all you New Yorkers will know) that the walkway doesn't sit at the s