Picture a storyteller who traded New York’s publishing hustle for the serene waters of Madison, Wisconsin, crafting novels that blend humor, heart, and self-discovery—meet Kelly Harms! A USA Today, Amazon Charts, and Washington Post bestselling author, Harms has captivated readers with her witty general fiction and romance novels, like the beloved The Overdue Life of Amy Byler, which became a Goodreads top ten fiction pick in 2019.
With a knack for creating flawed, lovable characters and vivid settings, Harms’s stories explore life’s unexpected twists, drawing from her Midwestern roots and eclectic experiences. Her journey from editor to novelist is as inspiring as the women she writes about, making her a standout voice in contemporary fiction.
The Making of Kelly Harms
Born and raised in Iowa, Kelly Harms studied Biology and Violin Performance at Gustavus Adolphus College, but her path took a literary turn after an internship at the Utne Reader. This sparked a decade in New York’s publishing world, where she worked as an editor at HarperCollins and a literary agent at the Jane Rotrosen Agency, collaborating with bestselling and award-winning authors. These experiences shaped her storytelling, infusing her novels with authenticity and charm. Eventually, she traded the city for Madison, Wisconsin, where she lives with her son Griffin, husband Chris, and fluffy dog Scout, finding inspiration near the water.
Kelly Harms’s Unforgettable Stories
Harms debuted in 2013 with The Good Luck Girls of Shipwreck Lane, a heartfelt tale of two women named Janine Brown who win a dream home in Maine, only to discover they must share it. The novel’s wit and exploration of luck and love set the tone for her career. The Overdue Life of Amy Byler (2019) followed, a laugh-out-loud story of a single mom’s transformative summer in New York City, praised for its relatable heroine and nerdy references.
The Seven Day Switch (2021) showcases Harms’s playful side, with two moms swapping bodies after a sangria-fueled potluck, offering a fresh take on parenting and identity. The Bright Side of Going Dark (2020) dives into the world of social media, following influencer Mia Bell’s quest for an offline life. Harms’s style blends humor, emotional depth, and vibrant settings, often inspired by places like Maine’s coast or Wisconsin’s snowy woods, making her novels both escapist and grounded.
Her themes of self-discovery and unexpected connections resonate with readers, earning translations into a dozen languages. Harms’s ability to craft “charming, relatable characters” (Library Journal) and “complicated emotions” (Kirkus Reviews) has solidified her place in women’s fiction and romance.
Why Kelly Harms Matters
Kelly Harms’s novels offer more than entertainment—they celebrate resilience and the beauty of imperfect lives. Her stories resonate with readers navigating their own crossroads, from single moms to dream-chasers, blending humor with poignant insights. By spotlighting women’s inner worlds, Harms has carved a niche in contemporary fiction, earning comparisons to Meg Wolitzer and Elin Hilderbrand. Her publishing background informs her authentic portrayals of characters like librarians and influencers, adding depth to her narratives.
Harms’s impact extends beyond the page. Her books, topping bestseller lists and earning accolades like the WFWA Star Award nomination, have built a global fanbase. Her engaging virtual and in-person reader interactions foster a sense of community, making her a beloved figure in the literary world.
- Birthplace: Iowa, USA
- Key Works: The Good Luck Girls of Shipwreck Lane (2013), The Overdue Life of Amy Byler (2019), The Bright Side of Going Dark (2020), The Seven Day Switch (2021)
- Awards: Goodreads Choice Award finalist (2019), WFWA Star Award nomination
Ready to dive into Kelly Harms’s world of wit and warmth? Grab The Overdue Life of Amy Byler and get lost in her irresistible stories!