Fashion Fiction, Chick Lit, and Beach Reads: Why I Love to Write These Genres
My books are lighthearted, style-soaked, and bubbling with steamy encounters and unavoidable drama.
Picture this: you’re packing for a vacation you’ve been looking forward to for months. You can’t wait to lay out by the pool with a cocktail in-hand. Or perhaps lounge on the beach with your sunglasses and a gigantic Jacquemus straw hat. Your bikini is microscopic and your stress levels are the lowest they’ve been since your job dumped those extra responsibilities on you without warning.
What are you reaching for when you arrive at your destination:
A glossy magazine
AirPods & a catchy playlist (maybe this one)
A page-turning novel
Or perhaps all of the above. Depending on what I’m in the mood for, I’d rotate between the three. But a good book would always be on my list, no matter what. Especially a slim, eye-catching book like Thirteen Emotions for when you want tapas-style stories between daily excursions and adventures.
Fashion fiction, chick lit, beach reads; true, these three genres can be easily interchangeable. However, I think they all have just a pinch of something unique that can draw you in—whether you’re sunbathing, commuting, flying first-class. (More like economy, right? Same.) And although they can oftentimes be dismissed as fluff or not as literary as their bookish peers, I’d argue that that’s the point.
I’m not always in the mood for something serious. Or sad. Or deeply disturbing and eye-opening. (Although, when I want something like that I gravitate toward Stephen King, Ruth Ware, Lisa Jewell.) Sometimes I just want to get lost in a sassy story about love, friends, frenemies, fashion, and cute guys.
Many years ago, I wrote a blog post questioning if there was still a place for chick lit fiction on the book market. In many ways, that post is still relevant. And although I don’t know the exact answer—or if there even is one—I do know that this is the genre I love to write. Or, genres, plural: fashion fiction, chick lit, and beach reads.
Why I love to write:
Fashion fiction
Writing fashion fiction books allows me to weave together the sparkling worlds of style and storytelling—two of my favourite things. Creating narratives that not only entertain but also explore the significance of clothing. These tales often revolve around characters who navigate the glitzy yet challenging realms of fashion, presenting readers with a blend of glamour and personal growth. Not to mention: enviable outfits.
Read More: How Much I Spent Self-Publishing My Second Book
Through sharp dialogue and vivid descriptions, I can illustrate the transformative power of fashion, delving into themes of identity, ambition, and societal expectations. By embodying the chic yet complex lives of their characters, fashion fiction books can captivate audiences, prompting readers to reflect on their own relationships with fashion and self-expression.
Plus, it doesn’t hurt to be able to describe my dream ensembles in different scenarios. I’ve actually been thinking of starting a series on Instagram called “Styling outfits from The Manhattan Mishap with items already in my wardrobe.” The main character Margot and I have similar taste in fashion, so I think I could come up with quite a few looks. Same with some of the characters in Thirteen Emotions. Particularly one story called Crossed in Love that takes place in Paris. Swoon. I’m obsessed with Paris.
Chick lit
I love writing chick lit novels because they provide a vibrant canvas for exploring the complexities of modern relationships and the journey of self-discovery. Through witty dialogues, relatable characters, and lighthearted plots, I can capture the nuances of everyday life while infusing humour and heart.
This genre allows me to create stories that resonate with readers on a personal level, inviting them to laugh, cry, and reflect on their own experiences. Ultimately, chick lit is a celebration of resilience, friendship, and love, making it a joy to write and share with a diverse audience.
Also, some of my favourite books are by chick lit authors. And some of my favourite authors write chick lit books. To name a few: Sophie Kinsella, Lauren Weisberger, Plum Sykes. You know, the incredibly successful authors behind bestselling novels Confessions of a Shopaholic, The Devil Wears Prada, and Bergdorf Blondes.
Read More: Inspiration for Writing Short Stories from a Self-Published Author
Beach reads
Writing beach reads allows me to craft stories that provide an escape, transporting readers to sun-soaked shores and carefree moments. I love creating vibrant characters whose journeys are filled with romance, laughter, and unexpected twists, all set against the backdrop of crashing waves and warm sands. Or perhaps a bustling city and scenes of a fast-paced concrete jungle. However, there’s something magical about weaving tales that evoke the scents of saltwater and sunscreen, reminding readers—and myself—of summer adventures and lazy afternoons.
My goal is to inspire people who pick up a copies of my books to relax and unwind as they immerse themselves in stories that capture the essence of life’s simple joys, making each beach read a perfect companion for a day in the sun.
Ultimately, I want my books to be read by people when they’re at their most serene. When they’re happy on holiday or falling in love with themselves in a new city or feeling confident, sexy, ready to live life. Think about it: when you go on vacation, you’re usually packing the crème de la crème of your wardrobe, due to limited space, and that usually extends to extras you’re bringing with you, too. Like, if one of my books makes it into your carry-on, I’m honoured. Truly.
Read More: 5 Short Stories About Being in Love from Thirteen Emotions
Or if someone is choosing to devour a chapter as a midnight snack as the last thing they absorb (other than a quality nighttime moisturizer) before bed? Flattered. And if they’re opting to read something I’ve written on their limited-time commute to work in the morning? Blessed.
Grab copies of Thirteen Emotions and The Manhattan Mishap on Amazon, Bookshop, Book Soup, and wherever books are sold online. You can also pick up a copy from my small online bookstore.
Thank you for indulging my indie author dreams!
—MMM
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