It’s almost time for the Indy Author Event, and I’m this close to full-on panic mode. 😅

The last signing I attended was back in November 2023, and while I can be outgoing when needed, I’m actually an introvert at heart—so yes, this whole “talk to people” thing takes some serious mental prep.

Let’s talk checklist:

 ✅ Books ordered

 ✅ Swag counted (I think I have enough??)

 ✅ Cute spring outfit packed

But here’s the kicker: my usual assistant—my amazing husband—won’t be there this time. Our middle kiddo has her first travel softball tournament, and he’s on team-dad-duty. Instead, my sister is tagging along to help at the table (thank goodness!), but not having my husband there to ground me has me feeling a little off balance.

Despite the nerves, I’m adding some fun new things to my booth this year:

💘 Blind Date with a Book

I’ve been totally obsessed with the trend, so I’m wrapping up a few of my books, labeling them with their tropes (but no title!), and letting readers choose their next book boyfriend by vibe alone.

💌 Love Notes for New Readers

If you sign up for my newsletter at the event, you’ll get a little handwritten note from me with a special something tucked inside. Just a little way to say thanks for joining my reader fam!

Click of Fate: Almost There!

I’m nearly finished writing Click of Fate—only about 10,000 more words to go! That includes the bonus scene you’ll be able to download at the end of the story.

I’ve truly loved writing Stella and Luke’s story. Their chemistry, their banter, the emotional messiness—ugh, I adore them. 💕

Here’s a little unedited teaser from their very first meeting (please don’t judge the typos—this is a true work in progress!):

“So I’m not going to lie, I was wondering what Meatball Thursday was all about,” Stella says, reading over the menu Alex dropped in front of us.

 I glance down and realize he’s gone all out for this specialty food night.

 “Yeah, I’ll give it to Alex. He knows how to pair beer and food,” I say, chuckling at the seven different pairings listed.

 “I never really think much of meatballs, but I’m strangely excited about this.”

 “Do you think meatballs ever live rent-free in most people’s minds?” I ask.

 She doesn’t look at me, but she smiles—and I know I’m on the right track with her.

Who knew meatballs and beer could lead to a one-night stand? 😂

Life Beyond Writing (Yes, It Exists!)

Here’s a peek at what I’ve been up to lately, beyond the bookshelves:

📖 What I’m Reading: The Wedding Wrecker by Penelope Bloom — She’s my go-to when I need something light, funny, and feel-good.

📚 April Book Club Pick: Love, Mom — Not my fave, but I definitely read it more with my author brain than my reader one.

📺 What I’m Watching: The Rookie — I’ve been watching it with my teen, and honestly? I love the bonding time even more than the plot twists.

🍋 What I’m Loving: The Lemon8 app — It’s a little slice of social media peace. Recipes, Dollar Tree hacks, Canva tips, AI tricks, and so much more.

 Are you on Lemon8? Let’s be friends! https://v.lemon8-app.com/s/OgsUxURerp

Thanks for hanging out with me on the blog today! If you’ll be at the Indy Author Event, please come say hi—I’ll be the one smiling nervously behind a table full of books… and maybe meatballs. 😄

Until next time,

 Lauren 💕