Picture a Los Angeles native who swapped spreadsheets for stories, crafting novels that blend mathematical intrigue with heartfelt romance—meet Annabel Monaghan! This USA Today bestselling author has captivated readers with her witty, warm narratives, from young adult adventures to adult romances that feel like a Nancy Meyers movie. Monaghan’s journey from investment banking to literary stardom is as inspiring as her books.
The Making of Annabel Monaghan
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Annabel Monaghan grew up surrounded by the city’s vibrant energy, pondering life’s quirks like bumper stickers and human motivations. She earned a BA in English from Duke University, fueling her love for storytelling, and an MBA from The Wharton School, which led her to a brief stint in investment banking at Goldman Sachs. But her heart was elsewhere. At 37, after years of raising three sons and navigating life’s twists, Monaghan reignited her childhood dream of writing, proving it’s never too late to chase your passion.
Annabel Monaghan’s Unforgettable Stories
Monaghan’s bibliography sparkles with versatility, spanning young adult and adult fiction. Her debut, A Girl Named Digit (2012), follows Farrah “Digit” Higgins, a math genius entangled in a thrilling terrorist plot, blending sharp wit with high-stakes adventure. Its sequel, Double Digit (2014), continues Digit’s journey, cementing Monaghan’s knack for clever, relatable heroines. Transitioning to adult fiction, Nora Goes Off Script (2022) became a LibraryReads pick, chronicling a screenwriter’s unexpected romance with a Hollywood heartthrob. Same Time Next Summer (2023) weaves nostalgia and second chances, while Summer Romance (2024) explores personal reinvention through a charming meet-cute. Monaghan’s style—infused with humor, authenticity, and emotional depth—creates stories that resonate across generations, often described as the literary equivalent of a warm hug.
Her non-fiction work, Does This Volvo Make My Butt Look Big?, a collection of laugh-out-loud essays from her columns in The Huffington Post and The Rye Record, showcases her comedic flair and keen observations on motherhood and modern life. With her forthcoming novel, It’s A Love Story (May 2025), Monaghan continues to explore love’s complexities with her signature charm.
Why Annabel Monaghan Matters
Annabel Monaghan’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that feel both universal and deeply personal. Her novels, translated into 20 languages, have touched readers worldwide, offering escapism and emotional resonance. By transitioning from finance to fiction, she inspires aspiring writers to embrace their true calling, no matter the detour. Her teaching at The Writing Institute at Sarah Lawrence College and her Friends with Words author series further amplify her influence, fostering a community of storytellers. Monaghan’s legacy is one of joy, encouraging readers to find humor and heart in life’s chaos.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: A Girl Named Digit, Nora Goes Off Script, Summer Romance
- Notable Achievements: USA Today Bestseller, LibraryReads Hall of Fame
Snag Nora Goes Off Script and dive into Annabel Monaghan’s heartwarming world of romance and reinvention!