Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of love, identity, and resilience with a heart as big as her Nashville home—meet Ashley Herring Blake! This former singer and educator turned award-winning author has captured readers with her emotionally rich young adult and middle-grade novels. From stories of self-discovery to queer romance, Blake’s authentic narratives resonate with readers seeking heartfelt, inclusive stories.
Now living on a tiny island off Georgia’s coast, Blake balances motherhood, coffee obsession, and crafting novels that tackle life’s messiest moments. Her journey from music to literature is as inspiring as the characters she creates, making her a beloved voice in contemporary fiction.
The Making of Ashley Herring Blake
Born with a passion for music, Ashley Herring Blake initially pursued a voice major in college before switching paths. She earned a master’s degree in teaching from Berry College, wearing many hats—barista, bookseller, special education teacher, and ABA therapist—before embracing writing full-time. Living in Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband and two sons, Blake’s diverse experiences shape her nuanced storytelling. Her openness as a bisexual woman infuses her work with authentic perspectives on identity and love, drawing readers into her characters’ worlds.
Ashley Herring Blake’s Unforgettable Stories
Blake’s debut novel, Suffer Love (2016), a young adult contemporary romance, introduced her knack for crafting complex relationships. This modern Romeo and Juliet tale explores teens navigating family secrets and forbidden love. Her 2017 novel, How to Make a Wish, follows Grace, a teen trapped by her unreliable mother, finding solace in a new friendship. It’s a poignant look at yearning for stability.
Blake’s middle-grade debut, Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World (2018), earned a Stonewall Honor for its tender portrayal of a 12-year-old grappling with her attraction to girls after a tornado upends her life. Equally powerful, Girl Made of Stars (2018), a Lambda Literary Award finalist, tackles heavy themes like sexual assault and loyalty through a bisexual teen’s lens. Blake’s adult romance series, starting with Delilah Green Doesn’t Care (2022), brings queer joy to the forefront with witty, steamy love stories.
Her writing blends raw emotion with hope, often centering marginalized voices. Whether exploring grief, identity, or romance, Blake’s stories feel like a warm hug—comforting yet honest about life’s challenges.
Why Ashley Herring Blake Matters
Ashley Herring Blake’s impact lies in her fearless exploration of identity and resilience. Her inclusive narratives amplify queer and marginalized voices, offering representation that resonates with young readers and adults alike. Awards like the Stonewall Honor and Lambda Literary finalist nod highlight her influence in diversifying children’s and YA literature. By tackling tough topics with empathy, Blake creates safe spaces for readers to see themselves reflected.
Her shift to adult romance with the Bright Falls series proves her versatility, blending humor and heart to redefine queer romance. Blake’s work reminds us that stories can heal, connect, and celebrate the beauty of being human.
- Born: Date unavailable, but she’s a Nashville native.
- Key Works: Suffer Love, Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World, Girl Made of Stars, Delilah Green Doesn’t Care.
- Awards: Stonewall Honor (2018), Lambda Literary Award finalist (2018).
- Fun Fact: She organizes her books by color!
Snag Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World or Delilah Green Doesn’t Care and dive into Ashley Herring Blake’s heartfelt, inclusive storytelling!