As a romance author, it should come as no surprise that my favorite books to read are love stories. And there’s no better time to dive into one—or a pile—than the month of February! Whether you’re new to the genre and looking for a love story to read this Valentine’s Day, or an avid romance reader already, I’ve compiled a list of my favorites that I hope will help you find a new favorite love story of your own. Reminders of Him The queen of romance novels, Colleen Hoover delivers . . .
My Favorite Reads of 2018
2018 was a big year for me as a writer. After ten years of writing, revising, and pitching my story, my first novel, Waiting at Hayden's, was finally published! I want to thank and every person who supported the book--whether by attending one of my launch parties, reading the story, sharing it with a friend, or offering words of encouragement during the journey to publication. A lot goes into releasing a book--way more than I could have EVER imagined when I first decided I wanted to write . . .
The Importance of Dressing Up for Work (even if you work from home)
The other day I was working out of a coffee shop, and a sixty-something woman, dressed to the nines in a silk blouse, tailored pants, and black heels, sat at the table next to me talking to her friend. “I don’t get young people, today,” she said. “They’re always dressed for yoga, but none of them are ever at the gym.” “I know,” said her friend. “There’s this brand called Lululemon. Apparently it’s “in.”” I sunk into my chair, hoping they wouldn’t turn around and notice me dressed head . . .
Change Your Life by Changing Your Life Story
A year ago, before I moved to Orange County, I told my employers in Oregon that I was moving because I’d won a writing competition at Chapman University and was going back to school to work with a professor on my novels. The truth was I hadn’t actually won the competition yet. I’d only entered. But I believed that what I’d written was good enough to get me accepted and more importantly, I WANTED that to be the way my life unfolded. So I made the move BEFORE I knew the results, which helped me . . .
A New Perspective on Valentine’s Day and 10 Love Stories to Help You Celebrate
For the longest time I hated the smell of cigarettes—probably almost as much as most people hate Valentine’s Day. But then I went backpacking through Europe and stayed with a handful of wonderful people—all who smoked cigarettes. And almost overnight cigarette smoke became synonymous with good times and great people. I’ve found that you can change your relationship with just about anything—and anyone—by a simple shift in perspective. I, for one, have always been a sucker for Valentine’s Day. . . .