Picture a Maryland storyteller who spins quirky, heartwarming tales that make you laugh and swoon—meet Sarah Adler! This USA Today bestselling author has taken the romantic comedy world by storm with her lovable weirdos and their delightful journeys to happily-ever-after. From road trips with ashes to ghostly goat farms, Adler’s novels are a perfect blend of humor, heart, and unexpected twists that keep readers hooked.
Born in Baltimore and now living in Frederick, Maryland, with her husband, daughter, and a mischievous cat named Noodle, Adler crafts stories that feel like a warm hug on a rainy day. Her authentic voice and witty dialogue have made her a rising star in rom-com literature, enchanting readers worldwide.
The Making of Sarah Adler
Growing up in south-central Pennsylvania, Sarah Adler was a bookworm with a knack for storytelling. Her love for reading and writing took a backseat during her academic years, but a life-changing moment in her late twenties—graduating with a master’s degree, welcoming her daughter, and leaving her full-time job—reignited her passion for fiction. Inspired by a friend’s advice to “just start,” Adler dove into writing, facing hundreds of rejections before landing a two-book deal with Penguin Random House. Her journey from dreamer to bestselling author is a testament to perseverance and the power of chasing one’s creative spark.
Influenced by rom-com greats like Jennifer Crusie and the whimsical humor of authors like Stella Gibbons, Adler found her niche in crafting romantic comedies that explore human quirks and connections. Her background as a historian adds depth to her narratives, even as she prioritizes fun over historical accuracy in her fiction.
Sarah Adler’s Unforgettable Stories
Adler’s debut novel, Mrs. Nash’s Ashes (2023), is a USA Today bestseller and a New York Public Library Best Book of 2023. This opposites-attract road trip romance follows former child actress Millie and grumpy writer Hollis as they transport an elderly friend’s ashes to reunite with her WWII love. Packed with laugh-out-loud moments, tender flashbacks, and classic rom-com tropes like “only one bed,” it’s a dazzling introduction to Adler’s style.
Her sophomore novel, Happy Medium (2024), also a USA Today bestseller, blends romance with a supernatural twist. Fake medium Gretchen Acorn teams up with skeptical farmer Charlie Waybill to investigate a haunted goat farm, joined by a TV-obsessed ghost from the 1920s. The result is a hilarious, heartfelt tale of redemption and love that showcases Adler’s knack for quirky characters and effervescent banter.
Adler’s third novel, Finders Keepers, set for release in June 2025, promises more of her signature charm. Her standalone stories, each guaranteeing a happily-ever-after, resonate with readers through witty dialogue, emotional depth, and relatable oddballs navigating love’s ups and downs. Critics praise her for nailing “rom-com alchemy,” blending humor and heart in a way that feels fresh and timeless.
Why Sarah Adler Matters
Sarah Adler’s impact lies in her ability to craft escapist yet relatable stories that celebrate the beauty of being beautifully strange. Her novels offer a joyful respite, reminding readers that love can bloom in the most unexpected places—whether it’s a dusty road trip or a haunted farm. By centering quirky, authentic characters, Adler challenges rom-com stereotypes, creating narratives that resonate with a diverse audience. Her rise from rejection to bestseller status inspires aspiring writers, proving that persistence pays off.
Adler’s work has also earned critical acclaim, with starred reviews from Library Journal and Publishers Weekly, and endorsements from authors like Carley Fortune and Ashley Poston. Her stories don’t just entertain—they spark joy and connection, making her a vital voice in modern romantic comedy.
- Born: Baltimore, Maryland
- Key Works: Mrs. Nash’s Ashes (2023), Happy Medium (2024), Finders Keepers (2025)
- Awards: New York Public Library Best Book of 2023 (Mrs. Nash’s Ashes)
- Fun Fact: Her cat, Noodle, is notorious for opening kitchen cabinets!
Snag Mrs. Nash’s Ashes or Happy Medium and dive into Sarah Adler’s sparkling world of romantic comedy—your heart will thank you!