Hi friends,

It's been a while since I’ve shared an update here. And while I usually try to keep things upbeat and bookish, today’s post is a little more personal.

Back in October, my life took a sharp, heartbreaking turn when one of my best friends, Beth, passed away after a short but incredibly brave battle with cancer. Then on Nov. 1—was my 40th birthday. Which was the day we celebrated her life. But it was a day I should have been celebrating with her instead.

Needless to say, the grief hit hard. It knocked the words out of me. I disappeared from my newsletter, social media, and even from my characters for a while. I was just trying to survive each day while sitting in the dark.

But slowly—one day at a time—I’m finding my way back. And I want you to know something:

I’ve thought about my readers every single day.

 I’ve thought about my characters every single day.

 And more than anything, I’ve wanted to write.

So as I step into 2026, I’m holding space for healing… and also space for hope.

 It’s time to gently come back to the thing that’s always brought me joy: telling love stories.

 
📚 Book Recs + HEA Vibes to Brighten Your January

January can be tough. So if you need a guaranteed pick-me-up, I’ve got you covered.

Read Wed Like Wildfire If You Love: 

- big city romance 

- friend groups you wish were your own 

- lots of dialogue 

- nerdy characters 

- feeling as if you're there, watching it all play out in person 

- fun, feel-good romance with some spice

📖 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BWHBR8QP

 
✨ What’s Coming in 2026

While last year threw me off course, I’m back with a full heart and big writing plans. Here's what’s on the horizon for my romance books this year:

1. Book 4 in the HEA Inc. Series

Hazel’s story is coming! If you’ve been following the HEA Inc. series, get ready for another deep, funny, emotional ride. She’s got big main character energy—and her love story might just surprise you.

2. Cocky Gamer Gets a Glow-Up

This book has always had my heart, but it was originally released as part of the Cocky Hero World. Now, I’m reimagining it to make it fully mine.

 ✨ New title

 ✨ New cover

 ✨ Updated names and locations

 ✨ Same swoony, nerdy goodness

3. 425 Madison Series Makeover?

I'm also toying with the idea of new covers for my 425 Madison books. Nothing is official yet, but I'm craving a fresh look for these NYC-based love stories.

 
🎧 What I’m Loving Lately

Even in the chaos, I’ve found a few things to love—and maybe you’ll love them too:

• Listening to: Dating After the End of the World by Jenva Rose
• Reading: Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
• Recent Buy: Stretchy Bootcut Flare Jeggings - My goodness, I haven’t felt myself lately, leggings and sweatshirts please. BUT these babies make me feel like I look good again. https://amzn.to/4sKV3wq
• Current Obsession: ohora semi-cured gel nail strips 💅 (Salon-level nails from home? Obsessed.) https://amzn.to/3NmdzeE

💛 Thank You for Being Here

If you’ve been waiting patiently… thank you.

 If you're new here and just exploring Lauren Helms books, I’m so glad you’ve found your way to my little bookish corner.

 And if you’ve stuck around through the silence, please know—I see you. I appreciate you. And I’m ready to write stories for you again.

Here’s to brighter days, bolder love stories, and plenty of happily-ever-afters in 2026.

xo,

 Lauren