Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of family ties and self-discovery with a touch of literary magic—meet Eleanor Brown! A New York Times bestselling author, Brown has captivated readers with her heartfelt novels like The Weird Sisters and The Light of Paris. Her stories, rich with relatable characters and emotional depth, invite us into worlds where personal growth and connection shine.
Born in Washington, D.C., Brown grew up in a home where books were as essential as air. Her parents, avid readers, ensured weekly library trips and limited TV time, sparking a lifelong love for literature. This bookish upbringing laid the foundation for her career as a novelist who crafts stories that resonate with book clubs and dreamers alike.
The Making of Eleanor Brown
Eleanor Brown, the youngest of three sisters, was raised in a world of words. Her parents’ insistence on always carrying a book fueled her imagination, while dinner-table debates often involved reference books. After moving across cities like Minnesota, San Francisco, and even England, she settled in Colorado with her partner, J.C. Hutchins. Before writing novels, Brown tried her hand at banking, teaching, and wedding coordination—experiences that enriched her storytelling. Her persistence, inspired by Samuel Beckett’s mantra to “try harder,” led her to refine her craft through failures, eventually birthing her debut novel in 2011.
Eleanor Brown’s Unforgettable Stories
Brown’s novels are like cozy conversations with a wise friend, blending humor, heart, and keen observations of human relationships. Her debut, The Weird Sisters, follows three sisters named after Shakespearean heroines as they navigate personal crises and their mother’s cancer diagnosis. A Colorado Book Award winner, it became an Indie Next pick and an Amazon Best Book of the Month for its witty dialogue and family dynamics.
In The Light of Paris, Brown explores self-discovery through a woman trapped in an unhappy marriage who uncovers her grandmother’s adventurous past in 1920s Paris. Her latest novel, Any Other Family, a 2023 Colorado Book Award finalist, dives into the complexities of adoptive families, showcasing Brown’s knack for portraying chosen families with authenticity. As editor of A Paris All Your Own, she curated essays from women writers about their Parisian experiences, adding a collaborative gem to her bibliography. Brown’s style—upmarket commercial fiction with rich characters and emotional stakes—makes her a book club favorite.
Why Eleanor Brown Matters
Eleanor Brown’s impact lies in her ability to make readers feel seen. Her stories of flawed, lovable characters grappling with identity and connection resonate deeply, especially with those who cherish family—biological or chosen. As a teacher at writing workshops nationwide, including Colorado’s Lighthouse Writers, she inspires aspiring authors to find their voice. Her CrossFit enthusiasm and contributions to CrossFit Journal reveal a multifaceted woman who champions resilience, both in life and on the page.
- Born: 1973 in Washington, D.C.
- Key Works: The Weird Sisters (2011), The Light of Paris (2016), Any Other Family (2022)
- Awards: Colorado Book Award for The Weird Sisters; finalist for Any Other Family
- Fun Fact: Brown limits TV time, just like her parents did, to prioritize reading.
Snag The Weird Sisters and dive into Eleanor Brown’s world of witty, heartfelt storytelling!