What 2025 Taught Me as a Romance Author, and My Goals for 2026

There’s something about the quiet week between Christmas and New Year that always makes me reflective. Maybe it is the slower pace, maybe it is the leftover chocolates calling my name, or maybe it is simply the finality of another year closing its pages. Whatever it is, I always find myself looking back at the year I have had as an author, a creator and a human trying her best.

So here it is: what 2025 taught me, and what I am carrying into 2026 with intention, hope and maybe a little sparkle.

What 2025 Taught Me

1. Writing grows with you, even when you don’t notice

There were moments this year where I felt stuck, flat or frustrated on the page. But when I look back now, I can see how much my voice has evolved. Every chapter, every draft, every deleted scene shaped me as a writer. Growth often hides in the small steps, not the big leaps.

2. Readers are the heart of this journey

The messages, reviews, DMs, and even the quick “I loved this” comments reminded me why I write romance in the first place. Connection. Joy. escapism. The fact that readers trust me with their evenings, lunch breaks or train commutes still feels like the biggest privilege.

3. Rest is part of the process

I learned the hard way that pushing too hard kills creativity faster than anything. The months where I allowed myself space to breathe were the months that recharged my imagination. I am finally accepting that rest is not laziness, it is fuel.

4. Stories arrive when they are ready

I had books this year that poured out of me, and others that needed coaxing, cuddling and bribery. And that is okay. Not every idea arrives fully formed. Some need time to simmer, and the slower ones often end up surprising me the most.

5. Celebrate the little wins

Word counts, kind comments, finishing a tricky chapter, saying no to things that drained me. The small wins kept me going when the big wins felt far away. I am taking that lesson with me into the new year.

My Goals for 2026

I am keeping my 2026 goals simple, intentional and realistic. A mix of writing dreams and personal ones that make my life feel fuller.

Author Goals:

• Finish and publish my next romance novel! I already feel the characters nudging me from the sidelines, and I want 2026 to be the year their story comes to life.

• Start a brand-new series Something fun, escapist and emotional. A world that I can sink into and stay awhile. If you've got any recommendations, let me know!

• Be more present with my newsletter and blog Sharing the behind-the-scenes of my writing life brings me joy, and I want to nurture that connection even more.

• Attend at least one bookish event in person Whether it is a signing, a convention, an award show or a panel, I want to step out from behind the screen and meet readers and fellow writers face-to-face.

Personal Goals:

• Protect my weekends a little better

More time outdoors, with family, with a book that isn’t mine, with tea and blankets and no sense of rush.

• Move my body in ways that feel fun

Pilates, winter walks, maybe even dancing around my living room. No pressure, just joy.

• Create a slower morning routine

Less scrolling, more sunlight, journalling and actual breakfast.

• Spend time learning something new

A new hobby, a new skill, or even just reading outside my usual genres. Curiosity makes life richer.

Looking Ahead

2025 stretched me, softened me, challenged me and reminded me what I love about telling stories. And now, standing at the edge of a new year, I feel hopeful. Not because everything will be perfect, but because I know I’ll keep showing up for my craft, my readers and myself.

So as the fireworks go off soon, here’s to a year of growth, romance, creativity and moments that make us smile for no reason at all. Let me know what your goals are for this next year, and I'll speak to you soon.

Lots of love,

Eve x