Nancy Scrofano: Author Influence (guest post)

Today, I'm happy to welcome Nancy Scrofano to Girl Who Reads. If you missed my review of her new book True Love Way, click here. 

Author Influence: Why I Admire Hester Browne’s Novels

There are many wonderful writers, especially in the chick lit/women’s fiction genre. One particular author influenced me so much that her novels compelled me to write chick lit, too. That author is Hester Browne. She has written five novels, including the three books in The Little Lady Agency series, The Finishing Touches, and Swept Off Her Feet.

When I read her first book, I said to myself, “This is exactly what a romantic comedy should be.” She always gets it spot on, and I’m never disappointed when I read her novels. Hester Browne expertly crafts stories that anyone can relate to. I can see myself in all of her main characters in some way, which brings me even closer to the story. I feel like I know her characters, like they could be friends of mine. The relationships in her novels are believable and written incredibly well. Browne really distinguishes her characters, conveying them with fresh, witty, heartfelt dialogue. She writes with such exquisite detail to draw readers in, making them feel like part of the characters’ world. Browne expertly develops romantic relationships in all of her novels and always delivers charming, unique stories that inspire me. Whenever I close a book written by Hester Browne, I always want more. She knows exactly how to create a happy ending that is satisfying, yet still leaves the reader wondering about the characters. Her books leave lasting impressions, an extraordinary feat for an author.

When I write, I write for myself, but I also write to entertain people and somehow affect them with the story I create. If a reader continues to think about my novel and my characters and even re-reads my novel, like I do with Browne’s novels, then I would be overjoyed. I hope that readers will connect to my novel and enjoy it as much as I enjoy Hester Browne’s novels.

While I was writing and editing my debut novel, True Love Way, I re-read The Little Lady Agency three times and Swept Off Her Feet twice. They were like guides on how to write great chick lit. I have studied Browne’s books and her writing style because I think they are the best in the genre. For anyone who wants to write chick lit or even for authors who already write in the genre, read Hester Browne’s novels. For readers who want to read fantastic romantic comedies, read Hester Browne’s novels. I know I will continue to learn from them and be inspired by them. And I can’t wait to read what she writes next!

About the Author:

Nancy Scrofano is the author of True Love Way and writes book reviews for a prestigious book review magazine. Additionally, she is the founder and managing editor of The Chick Lit Bee, a book blog that promotes and celebrates women’s fiction. Nancy is at work on her next novel. For more information, please visit http://www.nancyscrofano.com.

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