How Growing Up in a Small Town Shaped My Writing

I grew up in a small town in Northwest Arkansas, very much like my fictional town of Piney Brook. It was a town where everyone truly knew everyone else, and we looked out for each other. My small-town upbringing may have seemed restricting to some, but for me, it was pure magic. There was a sense of community and connection that, to this day, I find irreplaceable. People took the time to ask about your day, offer a helping hand, and genuinely celebrate each other's successes. It was a place where I learned the value of kindness, hard work, and always having a neighbor to lean on.

Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Northwest Arkansas is home to Beaver Lake, winding trails, and a wealth of charming, hidden towns. The town I lived in was small enough that there was only one elementary school, with a single class for each grade—everyone knew each other, and teachers had the chance to be more like second parents. Every summer, we’d spend our weekends at Beaver Lake, enjoying the cool water while hanging out on my grandparents' boat. Alternatively, we’d be running around on our farm, exploring the woods, or riding bikes down dusty country roads. The best part? Never running out of things to do.

But what truly set my childhood apart were the small-town festivals. These community gatherings brought everyone together and filled the air with excitement. We’d gather at the lake for fireworks, the sparkling lights reflecting off the water as we watched in awe. Fall festivals were a highlight of the school year, where I once won a homemade pie during a particularly intense round of musical chairs. And of course, the fair—oh, the fair. The smell of fresh cotton candy, the thrill of riding too many rides, and the excitement of livestock shows still bring a smile to my face. It wasn’t just about the fun and games; it was about the feeling of belonging, the shared joy that came from celebrating our small-town way of life.

As I set out to write romance, I knew my stories needed to reflect some of these incredible experiences. The magic of a close-knit community, the simple joys of outdoor adventures, and the warmth of love—both romantic and platonic—are all themes that are woven into my books. I’ve put a little bit of myself into each story, though I’ll leave the specifics to your imagination. After all, some things should remain a mystery.

I truly believe in the power of small-town communities—their charm, their quirks, and the way love, and sometimes a little nosiness, seems to abound around every corner. Through my books, I want to shine a light on these special places, where relationships grow and hearts find their way, sometimes with a bit of help from the neighbors.

Do you have a favorite small-town memory? I’d love to hear it! Feel free to email me at [email protected] and share your own cherished moments.