Author Lauren Helms | Updates

📖Indy Author Event

Author Lauren Helms — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The countdown to Indy Author Event 2026 officially begins NOW!

Date: Saturday, August 8th, 2026
Venue: 502 East Event Centre
502 East Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN

Stay Connected

Please make sure you join or follow these pages to stay updated:

➡ Event Page (for public updates):

https://www.facebook.com/IndyAuthorEvent/

➡ Reader + Author Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/987197828016985

➡ Event Website:

https://www.indyauthorevent.com

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💛A Personal Update from Romance Author Lauren Helms

Author Lauren Helms — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

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

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When Life Hits Like a Plot Twist

Author Lauren Helms — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Hey friends,

Let’s talk about when real life starts to feel a little too much like a plot twist you didn’t outline…

Lately, life has been absolute chaos at the Helms house. Between building a brand-new program within our local softball organization (yes, with Mr. Helms—my real-life HEA), dealing with home repairs, and navigating all the drama that comes with raising teenage girls… let’s just say I’m holding it together with iced coffee and vibes.

Oh, and did I mention someone tried to spend $3,000 at Lowe’s on our credit card? Now I’m hosting two birthday parties this weekend… without a functioning credit card. It’s giving “romcom heroine spiraling before her third-act breakthrough,” right?

If you’ve ever felt like the universe was testing you, just know—you are not alone.

Romance Author Life: Trying to Pivot Back

Despite the chaos, I’ve been craving time to dive into book plotting again. I was actually doing great with my 2025 romance author goals—until real life body-checked me. But I’m slowly pivoting back, because writing contemporary romance is my therapy and my joy.

If you’re a fan of my Unexpected Love series, you might be excited to hear that I’m considering a series-wide sale soon. Yes, book deals are coming! 🎉

Stay tuned for details and grab your TBR list, because you won’t want to miss it.

Bookish Things I’m Loving Right Now

Let’s get into the fun stuff—because even when life is messy, there’s always time for a good story (or a cute plant accessory).

💛 Currently Listening To:

The Crowns of Nyaxia series by Carissa Broadbent. If you love morally gray fae and fantasy romance drama, I can’t recommend it enough.

💛 What I Just Read:

A Happy Marriage by A.R. Torre – It’s raw, twisty, and gave me all the feels. Highly recommend.

💛 What I Bought:

The Cozyla digital calendar for our family command center. With multiple sports schedules, birthdays, and appointments—it’s a total game changer.

💛 Current Obsession:

Making friendship bracelets for my plants. Yes, you read that right. It started as a silly little project, and now I’m fully invested in my pothos’s social life.

Thanks for Sticking Around

Life is hard, writing is healing, and I’m grateful for every single reader who’s still here, cheering me on. 💛

A more in-depth update is coming soon (hopefully with less chaos and more writing progress). Until then, keep reading romance, hug your houseplants, and maybe double-check your credit card statement. 😂

xo,

Lauren Helms

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Summer Mayhem, Book Releases, and What’s Next at HEA Inc.

Author Lauren Helms — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

💕 A Month of Mayhem… and a New Book Release!

Summer break is here in full force, and this Indiana romance author is officially in survival mode. With my kids home, daily sports workouts, softball tournaments, and camps galore, I’ve barely had a moment to catch my breath—let alone write!

That said, June brought some big excitement: the release of my latest contemporary romance, Click of Fate, part of my Happily Ever After, Inc. romance book series!

📚 Click of Fate Is Now Available!

Luke and Stella’s story is finally out in the world, and I’m so happy with how it’s been received! This is my first release since October 2023, and I kept my expectations low—but y’all showed up! Readers are loving the blend of grumpy/sunshine energy, workplace tension, and found family chaos.

If you're new to the HEA romance universe, you can absolutely start with Click of Fate. But if you love reading in order, start with Wed Like Wildfire (Book 1 of the HEA Inc. series).

📖 Click of Fate is available now on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited!

🔥 Romance Tropes You’ll Love in Click of Fate

This story is packed with your favorite tropes, including:

One-Night Stand (with consequences)
Workplace Collision (he’s her next photo assignment—surprise!)
Opposites Attract: broody photographer x golden retriever climber
Found Family: sisters, coworkers, and meddling friends
Fear of Commitment (emotional and literal runners unite!)
Grumpy/Sunshine (but flipped!)
Small Business Vibes (matchmaking, photography, and climbing gyms)
Pet Adoption Shenanigans 🐾
And of course... an HEA worth the climb!

☕ What’s Brewing at HEA Inc.?

Next up in the HEA Inc. romance series is our café queen herself—Hazel! If you’ve fallen for her sassy energy and warm heart, just wait until you see who ends up in her orbit. I’m already giddy thinking about all the flirty banter and late-night café chats to come.

📱 Let’s Get Social

This romance author from Indiana is trying to make Instagram my bookish home, but the algorithm isn’t loving me back just yet. Got content ideas you’d love to see? Drop into my DMs on IG - @author_laurenhelms

Also, where are readers connecting these days? I’ve officially archived my old Facebook reader group (RIP), and I’m toying with starting a Discord. But is that where romance readers are hanging out? Still figuring that out!

🏡 Life Beyond Books: Summer Edition

Here’s a peek behind the scenes of my chaotic, wonderful life:

My son went to the Police & Fire Camp and had the best time.
My oldest daughter is starting high school and already rocking summer basketball workouts.
My middle kid—our softball star—is headed to the State Tournament after winning Little League Districts! (Yes, we’re celebrating with a four-day hotel stay. Send snacks. And a financial planner.)

Oh, and I tried starting a 75 Soft challenge on July 1. Let’s just say… I’ll try again next week. 😅

🖤 Author Obsessions Lately

Watching: Ginny & Georgia (just started season two, and I’m all in on Joe!)
Reading: Rewind It Back by Liz Tomforde
Book Club Pick: Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry – 10/10, highly recommend!
Bought: A walking pad for my standing desk. (Will I finally stand? TBD.)
Craving: Homemade açaí bowls with cookie dough granola and chocolate PB drizzle. Seriously. Life-changing.

Whether you’re here for the steamy stories, the book recs, or the family chaos—I’m so glad you’re part of this journey with me. More love stories, more behind-the-scenes peeks, and more HEAs are coming your way!

💖 Lauren Helms

Contemporary Romance Author | Book Nerd | Softball Mom

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🎉 Click of Fate Is HERE!

Author Lauren Helms — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Stella and Luke’s story is finally live—and I’m so excited to share it with the world.

After months of writing, editing, and sneaking in late-night inspiration between softball tournaments and snack breaks, Click of Fate is officially available! This book has my whole heart. Stella and Luke surprised me in the best way—what started as a one-night stand turned into something that made me laugh, swoon, and even tear up a little. I hope you love their story just as much as I do.

✨ Tropes to Love:

If you’re a romance reader who loves a good trope checklist, here’s what you’ll find inside:

✅ One-Night Stand with Aftershocks – It was supposed to be one night. It never is.

✅ Second Chance (Sorta) – Not a past love, but a second shot they never saw coming.

✅ Workplace Collision – He’s the subject of her next photo assignment. Surprise!

✅ Opposites Attract – The charming climber vs. the guarded photographer.

✅ Grumpy/Sunshine (Reverse Flavor) – She’s the grump. He’s the golden retriever.

✅ Found Family – Sisters, coworkers, and climbing kids who meddle in the best ways.

✅ Fear of Commitment – She runs. A lot. Emotionally and metaphorically.

✅ Witty Banter & Sexual Tension – Flirt hard, fall harder.

✅ Small Business Vibes – Climbing gyms, photography gigs, matchmaking magic.

✅ Pet Adoption Chaos – Nothing says "you're staying" like a puppy.

✅ Emotional Baggage Unpacking – Family trauma, vulnerability, and breaking cycles.

✅ HEA with a Climb – Because love, like climbing, is about trusting the hold.

🎯 Where to Get It:

You can grab Click of Fate on Amazon now at a special release week price of $3.99. It’s also available in Kindle Unlimited!

→ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F95QC2JY

And if you haven’t snagged the earlier books in the series, now’s the time!

Wed Like Wildfire is just $0.99, and Twist of Date is $1.99 for a few more days.

📦 Bonus Epilogue Alert!

There’s a special newsletter-exclusive bonus epilogue available at the end of the book—don’t miss it!

📸 Behind-the-Scenes: My Release Day Vibe

I always say I’m going to celebrate release days in a big way. But let’s be honest... I’m usually juggling mom life, sneaking sips of iced 7Brew between errands, or curled up under a blanket catching my breath. If I’m lucky, maybe I’ll treat myself to some dessert nachos from our favorite local ice cream shop (yes, that’s a thing—and it’s life-changing).

🧡 Stella + Luke Teaser

“She’s like a glitch in my system. I can’t stop thinking about her. How she sees everything, how she’s the only person who’s ever walked away and made me want to chase.”

—Luke Farley, Click of Fate

Thanks for being here, for reading, and for letting my words into your world. Stay tuned for more fun updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and bookish chaos!

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Final Countdown: Click of Fate Is Almost Here! 💘

Author Lauren Helms — Mon, 9 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We’re days away from the release of Click of Fate, and I’m riding the emotional rollercoaster of final edits, release prep, and full-on summer chaos. 😅

I got the story back from my proofreader late Tuesday night, and I’ve been deep in formatting mode ever since, prepping everything so I can upload the ebook to Amazon. I had grand plans to be more organized for this release… but life, as usual, had other ideas.

Between my upcoming signing event, kids starting summer break, and—you guessed it—softball, it’s been nonstop. The next two weeks? Just a blur of sunscreen, tournaments, and camp drop-offs.

But even in the middle of all that? This book makes me so happy.

📚 Pre-Order Before Release Day!

You can pre-order Click of Fate now for just $3.99, but heads up—that price won’t stick around. It’ll go up a bit after release, so if you’re planning to grab it, this is your chance!

🛒 Click here to pre-order

I’m hoping to hit a pre-order record with this one, and if you’re a reader who loves a swoony, trope-filled romance with heart and heat—you’re gonna want this one in your Kindle lineup.

💘 A Little Teaser From Luke Farley Himself:

“She’s like gravity. I don’t know how to move when she’s around, but I know I want to be closer.”

— Luke Farley, Click of Fate

Honestly? He surprised me. And I love it when that happens.

📝 Behind-the-Scenes: What Surprised Me Most

When I started writing Click of Fate, I didn’t expect Luke to fall so hard for Stella, so fast. I figured I’d be dragging them to their HEA with a lot more resistance, especially from him.

But Luke? He was all in. He knew she was worth it and just… showed up. Steady, smitten, and ready to put in the work. I didn’t have to force it—he was already halfway there. And I think that makes their story even sweeter.

☀️ Summer Reading + Real-Life Chaos

We kicked off summer break in full force over here with… four softball tournaments in a row. 😳 And somewhere in between, I challenged my 9th and 5th grade daughters to a summer reading challenge—which means I need a summer TBR too.

So far, my list includes:

Bourbon & Proof by Victoria Wilder
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Rewind It Back by Liz Tomforde
With a Vengeance by Riley Sager

Got a must-read I need to add? Drop it in the comments—I love hearing what you’re obsessed with right now.

😂 Just for Fun: Meet My AI Author Doll

So remember a few newsletters ago when I told you I was mildly obsessed with Lemon8? Yeah, well... it escalated.

I found a ChatGPT prompt that creates a Limited Edition AI Doll version of yourself, and of course I had to try it. After a few tweaks, this beauty was born—and honestly, she cracks me up.

Thanks for following along with all the fun (and chaos) as we inch closer to release day. I cannot wait for you to read Click of Fate—it’s swoony, spicy, and full of the kind of hope and healing that makes me love writing romance.

See you next week on release day! 🥂

—Lauren

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HEA Reader Event 2025

Author Lauren Helms — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Location: Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel at Keystone Crossing

For everything you need to know and a line up of authors, head to the website: https://www.heareaderevent.com/

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🎉 Cover Reveal + Pre-Order: Click of Fate is Coming!

Author Lauren Helms — Tue, 27 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

It’s finally here! I’m so excited to reveal the cover for my upcoming romance, Click of Fate—and friends, I am in love. 💘

This entire series has been a blast to write, but something about this book (and this cover!) just hits in all the right places. The colors? Chef’s kiss. The energy? All in. I hope you love it as much as I do!

✨ Pre-Order is LIVE!

You can pre-order Click of Fate right now—and heads up, the $3.99 price is temporary. Once release day hits, the price will go up a smidge, so grab your copy early if you’re a one-click kind of reader!

🛒 Pre-Order Click of Fate Here

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🎉 Click of Fate is Coming!

Author Lauren Helms — Tue, 27 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

✨Click of Fate Pre-Order is LIVE!

🛒 Pre-Order Click of Fate Here

💘 Click of Fate is Full of the Tropes You Love

Get ready for:

✅ One-Night Stand... that definitely doesn’t stay in the past
✅ Workplace Collision – she’s got a camera, he’s got a gym
✅ Opposites Attract – broody photographer × charming climber
✅ Found Family vibes – sisters, meddling friends, and matchmaking magic
✅ Fear of Commitment – she runs. A lot.
✅ Witty Banter & Sexual Tension for days
✅ Small Biz Love – Squeaky Bum Climb + photography goals
✅ Puppy Adoption Shenanigans 🐾
✅ Breaking Cycles + Healing Hearts
✅ One determined niece who ships it HARD
✅ HEA that takes a leap (or a climb)

🥵 A Little Teaser...

“She’s like a glitch in my system. I can’t stop thinking about her. How she sees everything, how she’s the only person who’s ever walked away and made me want to chase.”

— Luke Farley, Click of Fate

Whew. Luke’s bringing the heat, and Stella? She’s not making it easy for him—and that’s exactly why I love her.

💬 What’s Your Favorite Trope?

Tell me: from the list above, which trope gets you every time? I’d love to hear your favorites—drop a comment or shoot me a message!

🥎 Real-Life Update: Softball Mom Mode

Summer softball is officially in full swing (literally). We’ve got four tournaments in a row, and I’m trying very hard not to spiral. One of them just landed on the same weekend as the HEA Reader Signing—because of course it did. Deep breaths. We’ve got this. Probably.

📚 Bookish Things I’m Loving Right Now

📖 What I Read:

Hit Me With Your Best Shot by Sara Ney – five pucking stars. I adored this book.

🎧 What I Listened To:

Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez – I don’t usually highlight the same book twice, but THIS ONE. It wrecked me in the best way.

📚 May Book Club Read:

This Book Will Bury Me by Ashley Winstead – I was excited to lean into my true crime era, but this one dragged a bit. Also… reading it in the Hoopla app? Rough. 3 stars.

📺 What I’m Watching:

Fred and Rose West: A British Horror Story – the true crime obsession continues.

🧋 What I’m Obsessing Over:

New favorite drink from 7Brew: iced green tea + Sunny7 + mango + extra sweet. It’s like boba tea without the boba—and I’m hooked.

📦 A Fun Bookstore Find!

If you’re near Huntsville, AL, check out Blushing Books—a mobile bookstore run by one of my extended family members! I’ve been fangirling from Indiana and cheering her on, and rumor has it you may find some of my books on her shelves soon.

📍 Check out Blushing Books on Facebook

Thanks so much for celebrating this exciting step with me. I cannot wait for you to meet Luke and Stella. Stay tuned for more sneak peeks, release details, and maybe a little bonus scene or two. 💕

Until next time,

Lauren 💖

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Do you like to review books?

Author Lauren Helms — Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

I’m looking for ARC readers for my upcoming release, Click of Fate! Click of Fate is a swoony, one-night-stand romance about climbing risks, letting go of fear, and finding the kind of love worth falling for.

Bloggers, readers, and other authors are welcome to sign up.

Form 👉 https://forms.gle/qSqrT8u1x7QrRG1a7

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Blind Dates and Happy Dances!

Author Lauren Helms — Mon, 12 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Okay, confession time... In my last blog post, I said my last signing was in November 2024. That was a total typo—it was 2023! So yes, it had been over a year since I’d done a signing, and I was seriously stressed. 😅

I kept things pretty simple—brought fewer books, didn’t go all out with table decorations—but you know what? It still turned out to be a huge success!

✨ I sold double the number of books I’d planned to

✨ I hit my newsletter subscriber goal (hello and welcome if you’re new!)

✨ My Blind Date with a Book and Love Notes were total crowd favorites!

And the absolute best part? A few of you—actual subscribers and readers—came by and said hi. 💕 It’s always surreal to meet readers who already know and love my books. THANK YOU for being part of my little corner of the romance world. You made my day.

📸 Creative Fuel = Recharged

That event totally re-energized me—and I’ve already got ideas brewing for next month’s signing. I’m planning to level up my table game with new branding, better decor, cuter Blind Date packaging, and fresh stickers! (Because stickers make everything better. Obviously.)

👀 Ready for a Click of Fate Update?

I’m so excited to share this with you...

I sent Click of Fate to my editor this week!! 🎉

It’s getting real, and I can’t wait for you to read it.

Next newsletter, I’ll be revealing the cover—and you’ll get first dibs before anyone else. I’ll even be sending that email out a day early just for you. 💌

And yes, there will be a pre-order link (finally)! 🙌

📣Calling All Bloggers

If there are any book bloggers or influencers here, this one’s for you...

✨ You can now officially sign up to take part in Indie Pen PR blogger events!

From cover reveals to release blitzes and review tours—we’d love to have you join the team.

👉 Click here to sign up!

📝 Life Beyond Writing

(Because it’s not just about books... but okay, mostly it is.)

📚 What I Read: The Wedding Wrecker by Penelope Bloom – light, flirty, and exactly what I needed. Bloom is one of my go to authors!

🎧 What I’m Listening To: Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez – only two hours in and already swooning HARD

📺 What I’m Watching: Ransom Canyon on Netflix – still undecided, but I’m hanging in

🎨 What I’m Obsessed With: The A Brighter Year coloring notepad—specifically the XOXO mini pad. It’s cute, calming, and perfect for little creative breaks. Check it out here!

Thanks for reading, clicking, and just generally being awesome.

You’re the reason I get to do this, and I never take that for granted. 💕

Talk soon,

Lauren 💖

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Indy Author Event 2025

Author Lauren Helms — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Venue: 502 East Event Centre, 502 East Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN

Event Page: https://bit.ly/4jZMzNV

Event Group for Readers and Authors: https://www.facebook.com/groups/987197828016985/

Website: http://www.indyauthorevent.com

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../indy-author-event-2025...

#indyauthorevent #authorsigning #booksigning #bookishfun #authorlaurenhelms

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A Little Chaos, A Lot of Words, and a Big Weekend Coming

Author Lauren Helms — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

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 💕

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📚 Free Novella, Gamer Boy Updates & a Little Tornado Chaos

Author Lauren Helms — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Hey friends,

This spring has been… a lot. Between writing, mental health ups and downs, and an actual tornado (yes, really), I’ve been balancing life and words one coffee cup and candy stash at a time. But the good news? I’ve got updates, a free novella for you, and a book hangover question I need your answer to!

🎁 First Things First: Want a Free Novella?

If you're curious about my Gamer Boy series—or if you’re not sure whether to dive into the new box set—I've got a perfect little intro for you.

💘 Play With My Heart is a free novella and the official prequel to the Gamer Boy series. It gives you a sweet glimpse into the world of Team NoMad and teases what’s coming in the final book, Win My Heart.
👉 [Download it here]

It’s nerdy, flirty, full of feels—and 100% yours.

✍️ Writing Update: Click of Fate is Halfway Done!

I'm so happy to say that HEA #3—Click of Fate is almost halfway written! 🥳

Luke and Stella have been keeping me company at my desk during long days and late nights, and I’m really loving where their story is headed. That said, this month hasn’t been all smooth sailing.

Mental health is something I’ve always been open about, and lately, I’ve felt a dip—low motivation, some familiar waves of depression, and just the general struggle of trying to keep moving forward. Add in two weeks of spring break and a literal tornado that passed our house by just yards, and yeah… it’s been a lot.

We came out safe (just a roof replacement needed), but emotionally? It rattled us all. And it made writing—well—extra hard.

But I’m still here. Still writing. Still cheering on these characters and you, my readers. And I’m giving myself some grace, even when it’s hard.

❓ Fun Question: Let’s Chat!

📚 What’s the last book that gave you a total hangover?

You know the one—you finish it and you just sit there, like, “What now? How do I move on?”

Drop your answer in the comments or message me—I love hearing what’s wrecked your heart (in the best way).

💫 Other Things I’m Loving

📖 What I Read: Quicksilver by Callie Hart – HOLY sh!t. This book wrecked me. The audiobook is a must.

🎬 What I Watched:

Twisters (Glenn Powell… enough said).
A Netflix documentary on the Joplin, MO tornado.
I watched both less than a week before the tornado hit our town. 😳 Creepy timing, right?

🎶 What I’m Listening To: Ordinary by Alex Warren. It's been on repeat and I’m not even sorry.

That’s the latest! I’ve got more Click of Fate progress coming soon, and yes—the paperback of the Gamer Boy Box Set is in the works! Thanks for sticking with me, and if you haven’t grabbed your free novella yet—go get it. 💛

Until next time,

Lauren

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🎮 End of March Update: Writing, Candy, and a Brand New Box Set!

Author Lauren Helms — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Spring break is here (along with the chaos that comes from having three kids home for two weeks 😅), but thanks to a visit from my mom and a little desk hustle, I’m finally getting back into the writing groove.

I’ve been spending a lot of time with Luke and Stella, the main characters in my upcoming book Click of Fate, and let me just say—they’re such a joy to write. When the characters are working with you instead of against you, writing feels like a dream (even when your desk looks like a gummy candy war zone).

And speaking of candy...

🍬 Yes, I Snack While I Write...

If you’ve followed me for any amount of time, you probably already know this. Right now, my go-to writing snacks are:

Hershey Drops
Nerd Clusters (forever a fave)
Albanese Cottontail Gummies (spring special!)

I even have a labeled snack container that says “DO NOT TOUCH… YES, YOU.”

Has it stopped my kids? No. Do they sneak in and steal my candy when I’m distracted by dialogue? Absolutely. But the refill stash? Still a secret. 😉

📚 March Goal = Complete!

One of my 2025 goals was to accomplish one author thing each month.

✅ January: Hired my amazing PA, Amy (say hi!)
✅ February: Restarted my newsletter
✅ March: RELEASE THE BOX SET!

That’s right—the Gamer Boy Series Complete Collection is officially live on Amazon! 🎉

This boxed set includes all four full-length books in the series:

📖 Level Me Up – First Love Romance
🍻 One More Round – Second Chance Romance
🎧 Game All Night – Friends to Lovers Romance
💘 Win My Heart – Secret Relationship Romance

If you love nerdy and flirty romance with big-hearted book boyfriends and lots of Chicago flavor, this one’s for you.

📦 Grab the entire series now for just $9.99 or read it free in Kindle Unlimited.
👉 https://amzn.to/4iIoyKd

📝 What Else I’m Loving Right Now

📚 Current Read: Not Your Biggest Fan by Sara Ney
📺 Currently Watching: The Flash (Hulu) with my 8 & 10-year-olds—we’re totally team Barry Allen.
📖 Book Club Pick (March): The Cabin in the Woods by Sarah Alderson

That’s it for this month’s update! If you’ve read the Gamer Boy series, I’d love to know who your favorite is—Dex, Simon, Link, or Bernie? Drop a comment or connect with me on Instagram and let’s chat! 💬

Until next time, 💖 Lauren

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🎮 New Release: The Complete Gamer Boy Romance Series Box Set is LIVE!

Author Lauren Helms — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

If you're a fan of nerdy heroes, flirty banter, swoony love stories, and unforgettable book boyfriends, you’re going to love this!

I’m thrilled to announce that the complete Gamer Boy Series is now available in one binge-worthy box set! This contemporary romance series follows the professional esports players of Team NoMad as they fall in love in the heart of Chicago—one trope-tastic romance at a time.

This collection includes four full-length novels—each packed with chemistry, laughs, late-night gaming sessions, and all the heart-swooning moments romance readers crave.

📚 What’s Inside the Gamer Boy Series Box Set:

Level Me Up – First Love Romance (Dex and Morgan's Story)
One More Round – Second Chance Romance (Simon and Gia's Story)
Game All Night – Friends to Lovers Romance (Link and Ruby's Story)
Win My Heart – Secret Relationship Romance (Bernie and Wade's Story)

Whether you love a nerdy hero, a second chance at love, a secret romance, or that irresistible friends-to-lovers tension, there’s something for every romance reader in this series.

💬 What Readers Are Saying:

⭐️ “Refreshing New Adult read”

⭐️ “Original, fun, sexy and emotional”

⭐️ “The perfect balance of drama, angst, humor & heart”

Available Now on Amazon

Get the complete box set for just $9.99
Or read FREE with Kindle Unlimited

👉 [Insert Amazon purchase link here]

Perfect for fans of:

New adult romance
Romantic comedy series
Sports and gamer romance
Book boyfriends with big hearts and even bigger gaming rigs 🎮😉

So grab your favorite reading spot and settle in—Team NoMad is ready to steal your heart, one level at a time. 💕

Let me know who your favorite gamer boy is—and don’t forget to leave a review if you love the series!

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