Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of love, loss, and quirky human connections that linger long after the last page—meet Colleen Oakley! This USA Today bestselling author has charmed readers worldwide with her emotionally rich novels, blending heart and humor in contemporary women’s fiction. From her debut Before I Go to her latest Jane and Dan at the End of the World, Oakley’s stories resonate with anyone who’s ever navigated life’s messy, beautiful moments.
A former journalist with a knack for uncovering the human side of every story, Oakley transitioned from magazine desks to crafting novels that have been translated into over 20 languages and optioned for film. Her unique ability to balance poignant themes with a light, witty tone has made her a rising star in the literary world. Let’s dive into the journey of this Atlanta-based author who’s redefining modern love stories.
The Making of Colleen Oakley
Born and raised with a love for storytelling, Colleen Oakley’s path to authorship began at the University of Georgia’s Grady School of Journalism. As a young writer, she honed her craft at The Red & Black, UGA’s student newspaper, before climbing the ranks to senior editor roles at Marie Claire and Women’s Health & Fitness. Her journalism career, filled with interviews and essays for outlets like The New York Times and Parade, sharpened her eye for detail and empathy—skills that shine in her fiction. Oakley’s childhood dream of writing books never faded, and after years of dabbling in fiction on the side, she took the leap with her debut novel in 2015, proving her stories were meant for the page.
Colleen Oakley’s Unforgettable Stories
Oakley’s novels are like a warm hug with a side of unexpected twists, exploring love, grief, and human quirks through vivid characters and heartfelt prose. Her debut, Before I Go, a poignant tale of a young woman facing a terminal illness, earned accolades as a People Best New Book Pick and set the tone for her emotionally resonant style. Close Enough to Touch followed, delving into a woman allergic to human touch who finds connection against all odds, winning the French Reader’s Prize and capturing hearts in over 20 languages.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island showcases Oakley’s knack for quirky premises, following a widow who pretends her late husband is still alive, blending humor and heartache in a small-town setting. Her latest, Jane and Dan at the End of the World, a 2025 Good Housekeeping Book Club pick, tackles midlife and marriage with a satirical eco-terrorist twist, proving Oakley’s versatility. Her writing, often compared to Jojo Moyes, balances deep emotion with a playful tone, making her books perfect for book clubs and cozy reading nights.
Why Colleen Oakley Matters
Colleen Oakley’s impact lies in her ability to make readers feel seen. Her stories tackle universal themes—love, loss, and the search for connection—with a fresh, accessible voice that resonates across cultures, as evidenced by translations in 21 languages. Awards like the Georgia Author of the Year and longlistings for the Southern Book Prize highlight her literary prowess, while her film options signal her growing influence in storytelling. Oakley’s journalism background infuses her work with authenticity, grounding even her most peculiar plots in relatable human truths, making her a beloved voice in women’s fiction.
- Born: Georgia, USA
- Key Works: Before I Go, Close Enough to Touch, The Invisible Husband of Frick Island, Jane and Dan at the End of the World
- Awards: Georgia Author of the Year, French Reader’s Prize, Southern Book Prize longlist
- Fun Fact: She lives in Atlanta with her husband, four kids, three chickens, and a mutt named Baxter.
Snag Close Enough to Touch or Jane and Dan at the End of the World and dive into Colleen Oakley’s heartfelt, quirky world of contemporary women’s fiction!