Picture a storyteller who turned heartfelt romance into a global sensation—meet Bella Andre! This New York Times bestselling author has penned over 40 contemporary romance novels, selling more than 10 million copies worldwide. Known for her sensual, empowering tales, Andre’s journey from self-publishing pioneer to a seven-figure deal with Harlequin MIRA is as captivating as her Sullivan series, which follows a sprawling family finding love in unexpected places.
With a knack for weaving emotional depth and sizzling chemistry, Andre has become a romance virtuoso. Her stories resonate with readers across the globe, translated into ten languages, and her innovative approach to publishing has made her a trailblazer. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this remarkable author!
The Making of Bella Andre
Born in Rochester, New York, Bella Andre moved to Northern California at age four, growing up in a household where books were king. Her mother, an avid reader, and her father, a non-fiction author, sparked her love for storytelling. After earning a degree in economics from Stanford University, Andre dabbled in music as a singer-songwriter, even opening for icons like Chicago and Jewel. But a pivotal moment came when she read Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way, prompting her to write morning pages that birthed fictional characters in her mind. This creative spark led her to romance writing, a genre she’d devoured since childhood.
Andre’s early career saw her publish with major houses like Simon & Schuster and Hachette, but dissatisfaction with creative control pushed her toward self-publishing in 2010. Armed with determination and a knack for digital platforms, she became a pioneer, teaching herself to format eBooks and navigate Amazon’s Kindle program. Her bold move paid off, launching her into literary stardom.
Bella Andre’s Unforgettable Stories
Andre’s signature series, The Sullivans, is a sprawling saga of love and family, starting with The Look of Love in 2011. Set in San Francisco and beyond, each book follows one of the eight Sullivan siblings—or their extended cousins—as they navigate romance with humor and heart. Inspired by Julia Quinn’s Bridgertons, Andre crafted characters who feel like real people, not fictional archetypes. The Look of Love introduces Chase Sullivan, a photographer who falls for Chloe Peterson, blending steamy encounters with emotional depth.
Other standout works include Game for Love, a football romance from her Bad Boys of Football series, and Kiss Me Like This, the first in her New Adult Morrisons series. Writing as Lucy Kevin, Andre also pens sweeter romances like the Four Weddings and a Fiasco series, showcasing her versatility. Her style—described by Publishers Weekly as “sensual, empowered stories enveloped in heady romance”—combines rich emotions, witty dialogue, and scorching chemistry, making her books unputdownable.
Andre’s ability to craft interconnected series while keeping each story standalone is a hallmark of her work. Whether it’s the Maverick Billionaires or the Davenports, her novels celebrate love’s transformative power, often set against vibrant backdrops like California’s wine country or London’s bustling streets.
Why Bella Andre Matters
Bella Andre’s impact on romance fiction is undeniable. Her self-publishing success—selling over 3 million eBooks by 2014—redefined the industry, proving authors could thrive without traditional gatekeepers. Her groundbreaking 2013 deal with Harlequin MIRA, which granted print rights for The Sullivans while retaining digital and foreign rights, was a first, earning her a seven-figure advance and coverage in Time magazine. This hybrid model inspired countless authors to take control of their careers.
Beyond business, Andre’s stories empower readers with tales of resilient women and devoted men, fostering a global community of fans. Her keynote speeches at publishing conferences, from Copenhagen to San Francisco, share her expertise, encouraging aspiring writers to chase their dreams. With over 50,000 five-star Goodreads reviews, Andre’s legacy is one of connection and inspiration.
About Bella Andre
- Born: Rochester, New York
- Key Works: The Look of Love, Game for Love, Kiss Me Like This
- Awards: Award of Excellence winner
- Fun Fact: Andre once paid off her mortgage with eBook earnings!
Ready to fall in love? Snag The Look of Love and dive into Bella Andre’s irresistible world of romance!