Picture a globe-trotting storyteller who swapped a law degree and military boots for penning swoon-worthy romantic comedies—meet D.E. Haggerty! Known for her witty, heartwarming novels, Haggerty, born Dena, infuses her stories with humor and a worldly charm drawn from her adventures in places like Istanbul, Heidelberg, and The Hague. Her journey from job-hopping to bestselling author is as captivating as her books.
With a knack for crafting relatable characters and laugh-out-loud romance, Haggerty has carved a niche in the cozy, small-town rom-com genre. Her series, like Love Will OUT and Love in the Lowlands, have delighted readers worldwide, proving that love and laughter know no borders.
The Making of D.E. Haggerty
Born and raised in the U.S., Dena Haggerty grew up devouring her mom’s Harlequin romances, Nancy Drew mysteries, and classics like Little Women. Her early love for storytelling led to penning poems and stories—most of which, she jokingly admits, were thankfully destroyed. Life took her on a whirlwind: a stint as a military policewoman in the U.S. Army, a law degree, and a legal career in the Netherlands. But the courtroom wasn’t her calling. After running a B&B in Germany and following her husband to Istanbul, Haggerty decided to chase her true passion—writing.
D.E. Haggerty’s Unforgettable Stories
Haggerty’s novels are a delightful blend of humor, heart, and happily-ever-afters, often set in quirky small towns or vibrant international locales. Her debut, Unforeseen Consequences (2013), marked her entry into romance, but it was her series that won fans’ hearts. My Forever Love, the first in the Winter Falls series, follows a heroine navigating love in a charming, nosy town, earning a 4.32 average rating on Goodreads.
The Love in the Lowlands series, including Dutch Treat, showcases her knack for workplace rom-coms with a cross-cultural twist, featuring uptight heroines and charming Dutchmen. Love Will OUT, another fan favorite, delivers friends-to-lovers tales with a side of sass. Haggerty’s style—playful dialogue, steamy yet sweet romance, and themes of second chances—reflects her belief that love can bloom anywhere, from suburban cul-de-sacs to European cities.
With 91 books and over 39,000 Goodreads ratings, Haggerty’s prolific output and engaging voice keep readers hooked. Her ability to weave her diverse experiences into universal stories of love and growth sets her apart in the rom-com world.
Why D.E. Haggerty Matters
D.E. Haggerty’s impact lies in her ability to make romance accessible and fun, resonating with readers who crave lighthearted escapes. Her stories celebrate resilience, self-discovery, and the joy of finding love in unexpected places, reflecting her own unconventional path. By drawing on her global adventures, she brings a fresh perspective to the genre, proving that rom-coms can be both cozy and cosmopolitan.
Her engaged community—evident in her 2,938 Facebook likes and active newsletter—shows her knack for connecting with fans. Haggerty’s work inspires aspiring writers to embrace their unique journeys, reminding us that it’s never too late to chase a dream.
- Pen Name: D.E. Haggerty (real name: Dena)
- Key Works: My Forever Love, Dutch Treat, Love Will OUT
- Notable Achievement: Awarded Best Contemporary Romance Novel of 2017 by N.N. Light’s Book Heaven for an unnamed title
- Fun Fact: Haggerty jokes she’s open to turning her love of wine into a job!
Ready for a dose of laughter and love? Snag My Forever Love and dive into D.E. Haggerty’s irresistible rom-com world!