Picture a British storyteller who turned everyday mishaps into laugh-out-loud romantic comedies—meet Chrissie Manby! With her sharp wit and knack for crafting relatable characters, this London-based author has become a beloved name in the rom-com world. From her first short story at fourteen to bestselling novels like Lizzie Jordan's Secret Life, Manby’s journey is as charming as her books.
Born Christine Manby, she’s penned tales under various names, but it’s as Chrissie Manby that she’s won hearts globally. Think of her as your witty best friend who always has a hilarious take on love’s ups and downs—perfect for a cozy night in with a glass of white wine (her admitted weakness)!
The Making of Chrissie Manby
Hailing from Gloucester in England’s west, Chrissie’s love for writing sparked early. At just fourteen, she published her first short story, Whatever Happened to the Wonderful Boy I Fell in Love With, in Just Seventeen magazine—under a pseudonym, of course, to dodge teenage embarrassment. Her teachers saw her talent, nudging her toward a literary path.
She sharpened her skills at Oxford’s St Edmund Hall, studying Experimental Psychology—ironic for a future rom-com queen! After graduating, she juggled short stories and odd jobs before her big break in 1997 with Flatmates, kicking off a career that’s now spanned over 40 books. London became her muse, and her knack for humor her superpower.
Chrissie Manby’s Unforgettable Stories
Chrissie Manby’s books are like a warm hug with a side of giggles. Take Lizzie Jordan's Secret Life (2000), a standalone hit where a typist dreams big amid love and chaos—classic Manby with its relatable heroine and comic twists. Then there’s A Proper Family Holiday (2014), the first in her Benson Family series, blending family drama with sun-soaked hilarity on a Mediterranean cruise.
Her style? Think accessible yet insightful, with characters you’d swear you’ve met. Getting Over Mr. Right (2010) earned a Melissa Nathan Award nod for its fresh take on post-breakup woes—proof she’s not afraid to mix heart with humor. From standalone gems to series, her 25+ romantic comedies showcase a voice that’s uniquely hers: warm, witty, and oh-so-British.
Manby’s themes often dance around love’s quirks, self-discovery, and the joy of second chances. Whether it’s a heartbroken heroine or a family’s misadventures, her stories feel real—probably because she’s mined her own life for inspiration, exaggerating just enough to keep us laughing.
Why Chrissie Manby Matters
In the rom-com realm, Chrissie Manby stands out for making the genre feel fresh yet timeless. Her Sunday Times bestsellers have hooked readers worldwide, proving that laughter and love are universal languages. She’s inspired countless fans to see the funny side of life’s messiness, cementing her as a go-to for feel-good fiction.
Her influence stretches beyond bookshelves—aspiring writers adore her practical guide, Writing for Love, and her playful Twitter presence (@chrissiemanby) keeps her connected to fans. In a world that can feel heavy, Manby’s light touch reminds us to smile, making her a quiet legend in British literature.
- About Chrissie Manby:
- Born in Gloucester, England
- Key Works: Lizzie Jordan's Secret Life, A Proper Family Holiday, Getting Over Mr. Right
- Awards: Nominated for the 2011 Melissa Nathan Award
- Fun Fact: She’s a self-confessed terrible baker—her dad once threatened to feature her cake on Cake Wrecks!
Ready for a literary escape? Snag Getting Over Mr. Right and dive into Chrissie Manby’s irresistible rom-com world—laughter guaranteed!