What Is Women’s Fiction? (And Why I Love Writing It)
People ask me all the time—what exactly is women’s fiction? Is it just another name for romance? Is it a book only women read? Is there a checklist?
Honestly? It’s a little hard to define… and I kind of love that about it.
But since I write it—and read a lot of it—I thought I’d share what women’s fiction means to me, and why it has such a special place in my heart.
So… What Is Women’s Fiction?
To me, women’s fiction is about a woman’s emotional journey. It’s about the choices she has to make, the relationships she navigates, the second chances she takes (or doesn’t), and how she changes along the way.
It’s not always about romance—though it can have a love story woven in (mine usually do). But the main focus is always on the woman herself. Her life. Her growth. Her story.
Women’s Fiction vs. Romance: What’s the Difference?
I love a good romance just as much as the next person. But when I sit down to write a book, I’m usually thinking beyond just a love story.
Romance is all about the relationship. The plot centers around two people falling in love, and there’s always a happily ever after.
Women’s fiction, on the other hand, might have romance, but it’s not the whole story. The woman’s personal growth is what really drives the book. She might be navigating a divorce, a new career, a family secret, or simply figuring out who she is after the kids leave the nest. (Or all of the above!)
The Kinds of Stories I Love to Tell
If you’ve read any of my books, you probably know the themes I keep coming back to:
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Second chances (because who doesn’t need one?)
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Found family and small-town charm
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Friendships that carry us through the hard stuff
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Mothers and daughters, sisters and best friends
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Starting over at 50, 60, even 70… whenever life decides to shake things up
I love writing about women who are a little older and wiser. Women who’ve lived some life, made some mistakes, and are still figuring things out.
Why Women’s Fiction Matters (At Least to Me)
I think one of the reasons women’s fiction is so special is because it feels real. These stories reflect the lives many of us are living or have lived. They remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles or dreams. That it’s never too late to change course. That friendship, community, and belonging still matter.
And honestly? I think that’s pretty powerful.
Where to Start If You’re New Around Here
If you’re just dipping your toes into women’s fiction, I’ve got a few books that might be a good place to start:
The Parker Women
Four women. One beach cottage. Lots of secrets and second chances. This one’s full of family drama, healing, and the pull of the past.
Saltwater Sunrises
A story about two lifelong friends returning to a beach town they once loved. It’s about starting over, finding your people again, and maybe even falling in love.
You can find information on all my books right here if you want to take a peek!
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
I love hearing from readers who’ve connected with a character or felt seen by a storyline. That’s really what women’s fiction is all about—connection. If you’re looking for stories with heart, hope, and heroines who feel like real women, then you’re in the right place.
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Thanks for stopping by. Now go grab a cozy blanket (or a beach chair), and happy reading!
— Kay