Picture a Southern California dreamer spinning heartfelt love stories that tug at your heartstrings—meet Renee Carlino! A bestselling contemporary romance novelist, Carlino crafts emotionally rich tales infused with music, urban vibes, and the complexities of modern love. Her novels, like Sweet Thing and Before We Were Strangers, have captivated readers worldwide, earning her a devoted following and praise for her evocative storytelling.
With a passionრalt=A portrait of Renee Carlino, a smiling woman with long dark hair, standing by the beach. unique voice shaped by 80s rom-coms and her self-described 'wildly hopeless romantic' spirit, Carlino’s work resonates with anyone who believes in second chances and the power of love.
The Making of Renee Carlino
Born and raised in Southern California, Renee Carlino grew up with a creative spark, penning poetry and short stories as a teenager. After earning a film degree in 2002, she initially envisioned her stories on the big screen, but her time as a seventh-grade English teacher reignited her love for the written word. Inspired by music—her 'lifeblood'—and the drama of intimate relationships, Carlino began crafting novels that blend raw emotion with vivid settings, from New York City to San Diego, where she now lives with her husband, two sons, and their pup, John Snow Cash.
Renee Carlino’s Unforgettable Stories
Carlino’s debut novel, Sweet Thing (2013), follows Mia, a pianist torn between her business degree and her passion for music, weaving a tender tale of self-discovery and romance. Before We Were Strangers (2015), a fan favorite, is a poignant second-chance love story about two college friends reunited by a Craigslist 'missed connection' post after 15 years apart. Swear on This Life (2016) explores a writer confronting her past when she discovers she’s the inspiration for a bestselling novel, while This Used to Be Us (2024) delves into the bittersweet unraveling of a marriage with sharp wit and heart. Carlino’s style—lyrical, emotionally intense, and music-infused—creates stories that feel like a soulful playlist, blending humor, heartbreak, and hope.
Her novels often feature strong, relatable characters navigating love’s highs and lows, set against vibrant cityscapes or coastal towns. Carlino’s knack for capturing the 'what-ifs' of romance, paired with her cinematic flair, has led to adaptations, like Wish You Were Here, directed by Julia Stiles and hitting theaters in January 2025.
Why Renee Carlino Matters
Renee Carlino’s impact lies in her ability to make readers feel deeply, offering stories that mirror the messiness of real relationships. Her books, featured in outlets like Cosmopolitan and USA TODAY, have redefined contemporary romance by blending New Adult and Adult themes, appealing to a wide audience. By exploring themes of second chances, personal growth, and the courage to love again, Carlino inspires readers to embrace the present and believe in love’s enduring magic.
Her work has sparked book club discussions and built a loyal community of readers who cherish her authentic, heart-driven narratives. As she continues to evolve, Carlino remains a beacon for hopeless romantics everywhere.
- Key Works: Sweet Thing (2013), Before We Were Strangers (2015), Swear on This Life (2016), This Used to Be Us (2024)
- Hometown: Southern California
- Influences: Music, 80s rom-coms, urban settings
- Fun Fact: She’s a dark chocolate enthusiast and concert-goer.
Ready to fall in love with Renee Carlino’s world? Snag Before We Were Strangers and dive into her soulful, romantic universe!