Picture a St. Louis storyteller who turned a heartbreak-fueled dream into a TikTok sensation—meet Laura Nowlin! This young adult author crafts novels that dive deep into the messy, beautiful chaos of teenage love and loss, resonating with readers worldwide. With a knack for raw emotion, Nowlin’s stories feel like a heart-to-heart with your best friend.
Born in Arkansas and raised in Missouri, Laura Nowlin’s journey to literary stardom is as compelling as her books. Her debut novel, If He Had Been with Me, born from a vivid dream during a battle with depression, skyrocketed her into the hearts of YA fans. Let’s explore how this resilient writer became a voice for a generation.
The Making of Laura Nowlin
Laura Nowlin grew up in Florissant, Missouri, after moving from Fayetteville, Arkansas, at age nine. A self-proclaimed bookworm, she was mildly dyslexic but fell in love with storytelling early, penning her first poem in first grade and a novel in high school. Her BA in English with a Creative Writing emphasis from Missouri State University honed her craft. Working at the St. Louis County Library, Nowlin found inspiration in the diverse patrons, fueling her character-driven stories. Despite struggles with clinical depression, she channeled her emotions into writing, proving that vulnerability can spark creativity.
Laura Nowlin’s Unforgettable Stories
Nowlin’s novels are emotional rollercoasters, blending romance, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Her debut, If He Had Been with Me (2013), follows Autumn and Finny, childhood friends whose bond frays in adolescence until a tragedy forces Autumn to confront ‘what if.’ A #1 New York Times bestseller, it’s a BookTok darling for its lyrical prose and gut-punch ending.
Its companion, If Only I Had Told Her (2024 US edition), dives into Finny’s perspective, exploring unrequited love and regret. Fans adore its poignant take on missed chances. This Song Is (Not) For You (2016) tackles a quirky love triangle with music at its core, showcasing Nowlin’s versatility. Her upcoming Friends to Lovers series promises more heartfelt tales. Nowlin’s style—raw, authentic, and steeped in St. Louis settings—captures the ache of growing up.
Why Laura Nowlin Matters
Laura Nowlin’s impact transcends pages. Her novels resonate with teens and adults alike, offering mirrors for their struggles with love, identity, and mental health. Through social media like Instagram and TikTok, she connects with fans, sharing glimpses of her creative process. Her openness about depression and dyslexia inspires readers to embrace their own challenges. As a BookTok success story, Nowlin proves that emotional honesty can spark a literary phenomenon, making her a beacon for aspiring writers.
- Birthplace: Fayetteville, Arkansas
- Key Works: If He Had Been with Me, If Only I Had Told Her, This Song Is (Not) For You
- Fun Fact: Lives in St. Louis with her musician husband, neurotic dog, and psychotic cat
About Laura Nowlin
Ready to cry, laugh, and fall in love? Grab If He Had Been with Me