Picture a Southern storyteller spinning tales of love, heartbreak, and second chances under the Georgia sun—meet Rachel Hanna! A USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Hanna has charmed readers with her clean, small-town contemporary romance and women’s fiction, brimming with quirky Southern characters and emotional depth. From her debut novel in 2012 to her beloved series set in sun-kissed South Carolina, Hanna’s stories capture the heart of the South with a sprinkle of charm and a whole lot of heart.
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Hanna’s roots run deep in the South, where peach cobbler and phrases like “fixin’ to” inspire her writing. With over 2 million books sold, she’s become a favorite for readers craving heartfelt stories about family, love, and new beginnings. Her unique ‘pantser’ style—writing without a rigid outline—lets her stories unfold naturally, making every page feel like a conversation with a friend.
The Making of Rachel Hanna
Rachel Hanna’s love for storytelling began at age eight, scribbling poems and stories that hinted at her future. In third grade, her teacher, Mrs. Hamm, predicted she’d become a writer—a prophecy that stuck. Initially drawn to journalism, Hanna interned at places like CNN, but her heart leaned toward fiction. After graduating, she swapped newsrooms for novels, publishing her first book, Second Chance, in 2012 at age 40. A lifelong Atlantan, she now lives in a charming Blue Ridge Mountain town with her husband of over 26 years, three grown kids, two rescue dogs, and a snotty outdoor cat who rules the roost.
Rachel Hanna’s Unforgettable Stories
Hanna’s novels are a love letter to the South, blending clean romance with women’s fiction. Her South Carolina Sunsets series, starting with The Beach House (2019), follows Julie, a woman rebuilding her life on a South Carolina island after a devastating betrayal. Readers adore its mix of Southern wit, quirky characters, and themes of starting over. The January Cove series, kicking off with The One for Me (2013), dives into love and family in a cozy Georgia beach town, with 12 novels full of heartwarming drama. Wisteria Island (2021) explores healing and community, while Happy Harbor (2024) pits a baker against her ex in a high-stakes competition. Hanna’s ‘pantser’ approach lets her characters drive the story, creating unpredictable, emotional journeys that resonate with fans.
Her writing style is clean and wholesome, focusing on complex relationships and personal growth. Drawing inspiration from everyday life—news stories, chance encounters, or “what if” questions—Hanna crafts authentic Southern settings, from sunlit beaches to mountain hamlets. Her stories avoid heavy plotting, letting creativity flow freely, which has earned her 11 USA Today and 2 Wall Street Journal bestseller titles.
Why Rachel Hanna Matters
Rachel Hanna’s impact lies in her ability to transport readers to the South, where her stories feel like a warm hug from a friend. Her focus on clean romance and women’s fiction fills a niche for readers seeking emotional, uplifting tales without explicit content. With over 80 books and a dedicated fanbase, she’s a staple in contemporary romance, rivaling authors like Debbie Macomber. Her work celebrates resilience, family, and love, inspiring readers to find hope in life’s challenges. Hanna’s active engagement with fans through her “Rachel’s Readers” Facebook group fosters a community that keeps her stories alive.
- Born: Atlanta, Georgia
- Key Works: The Beach House, The One for Me, Wisteria Island, Happy Harbor
- Awards: 11-time USA Today Bestseller, 2-time Wall Street Journal Bestseller
- Fun Fact: Hanna dreams of traveling the U.S. in a motorhome!
Ready to fall in love with the South? Snag The Beach House and dive into Rachel Hanna’s heartwarming world of romance and second chances!