Photo: J. Sterling, best-selling author of heartfelt romance novels, continues to inspire readers worldwide with her relatable characters and compelling stories.
A Journey Of Creativity, Passion, And Connection
J. Sterling shares her inspiring journey as a best-selling self-published author, her real-life-inspired writing process, fan interactions, and creative evolution with her latest small-town romance series.
J. Sterling, a Southern California native, has carved a unique path in the romance genre. Growing up amidst the bustling Hollywood entertainment industry, Sterling has parlayed her life experiences and distinctive voice into a successful career as both an independent and bestselling author. Her works have sold more than a million copies worldwide, landing spots on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists while also being translated into several languages. From her heartfelt characters to her relatable narratives, Sterling’s books have touched the lives of countless readers, leaving them with what she hopes are “smiles on their faces and happy hearts.”
Sterling’s latest release—a three-book small-town romance series—marks a pivotal moment in her career. As she explained during an interview with Reader’s House magazine, this series emerged from a personal journey of rediscovery. Battling burnout, Sterling found herself drawn to the charm and simplicity of small-town life, crafting a fictional setting centered around three brothers who run a family resort. “These are the best books I’ve ever written, and I’m extremely proud of them,” she stated with unmistakable enthusiasm. This shift in focus has proven to be both restorative and creatively rewarding, offering longtime readers an exciting new dimension to her storytelling.
“They’re the best books I’ve ever written, and I’m extremely proud of them.” J. Sterling
Beyond her latest series, Sterling has also captivated fans with her widely loved works such as The Fisher Brothers and Fun For the Holidays series. Her ability to write relatable, emotional stories stems from her approach to crafting characters—drawing inspiration from real-life experiences. “Even though I’m writing fictional characters, I want them to feel real,” Sterling explained. “I’m definitely an emotional storyteller, and I think that comes through in my writing.” This emotional core is what makes her books resonate deeply with readers, setting her apart in the competitive realm of romance fiction.
Sterling’s journey to becoming a bestselling author is as inspiring as the stories she pens. As a self-published writer, she has navigated the evolving landscape of publishing with resilience and determination. While the challenges have been significant, she embraces them with honesty and practicality. “The challenges really never seem to end,” Sterling admitted, underscoring the constant decisions and adjustments required in the publishing world. Her advice to aspiring writers? Follow your heart, trust your instincts, and learn what kind of writer you are. Sterling believes success lies in authenticity and self-awareness: “Be the best writer you can be. You got this!”
One aspect of Sterling’s career that sets her apart from others in the genre is her personal connection with readers. She describes her fans not merely as audience members but as friends, valuing the accessibility that comes with being a self-published author. The bond between Sterling and her readers has been mutually enriching—although fan demands occasionally push her to write stories she hadn’t planned, Sterling has learned to balance these interactions with staying true to her creative vision. “I’ve learned to write the stories I want to tell, and I’m okay with disappointing people by saying no,” she reflected candidly.
Despite the universality of themes like love, heartbreak, and redemption, Sterling believes her novels stand out because of her unique writing voice. “Haven’t all the stories been told before? Pretty much,” she remarked. “The only thing that we have that’s unique is our writing voice—the WAY we tell a story.” Her dedication to authenticity ensures that readers who enjoy one of her books will likely find joy in all her works. This consistency of tone and voice has built her a loyal fan base over the years.
Through her stories, J. Sterling continues to craft tales of love and redemption that leave a lasting impact. Her fans can explore her books through her direct store at www.jsterlingbooks.com or connect with her on social media under @AuthorJSterling. For updates and insights, readers can sign up for her newsletter at https://tinyurl.com/Jnewsletter. With her heartfelt narratives and unwavering passion, J. Sterling remains a shining star in the world of contemporary romance, giving her readers every reason to love, laugh, and believe in happy endings.
This interview was originally published in Reader’s House magazine.
