Picture a storyteller who weaves heart, humor, and neurodiversity into contemporary romance—meet Sarah Grunder Ruiz! This American author has captured readers’ hearts with her Love, Lists, and Fancy Ships series, blending emotional depth with playful narratives. From her ADHD-informed characters to her knack for crafting relatable relationships, Sarah’s stories are a refreshing take on modern love and self-discovery.
Originally from South Florida, Sarah now calls Raleigh, North Carolina, home, where she balances writing, teaching, and her love for karaoke. Her unique voice shines through in stories that celebrate the beauty and challenges of neurodivergent experiences, making her a rising star in romance literature.
The Making of Sarah Grunder Ruiz
Born and raised in South Florida, Sarah Grunder Ruiz grew up with a vibrant, sunny backdrop that influenced her warm, lively writing style. She pursued an MFA in creative writing at North Carolina State University, where she honed her craft and now teaches First-Year Writing. Diagnosed with ADHD at 20, Sarah found inspiration in her own neurodivergent journey, channeling it into authentic, nuanced characters. Her transition from educator to published author began with a passion for storytelling, fueled by her love for romance and real-life complexities.
Sarah Grunder Ruiz’s Unforgettable Stories
Sarah’s debut novel, Love, Lists, and Fancy Ships (2021), introduced readers to Jo Walker, a yacht stewardess navigating grief and a bold bucket list. The novel’s blend of humor, slow-burn romance, and emotional depth earned praise from authors like Jodi Picoult, who called it a “delightful love story.” Its sunny Florida setting and heartfelt exploration of family bonds set the tone for Sarah’s signature style.
The series continued with Luck and Last Resorts (2022), a second-chance romance featuring Nina Lejeune and Irish chef Ollie Dunne aboard a super yacht. PopSugar named it one of 2022’s best new books, lauding its witty banter and emotional stakes. Sarah’s latest, Last Call at the Local (2024), takes readers to Ireland, where a free-spirited musician with ADHD and a charming pub owner with OCD revitalize a family business—and find love. Critics hailed its authentic portrayal of neurodiversity, with Kirkus Reviews giving it a starred review.
Sarah’s writing stands out for its blend of lighthearted romance and serious themes like grief, mental health, and neurodivergence. Her characters, often quirky and deeply human, challenge stereotypes while delivering satisfying happily-ever-afters. Whether set on a yacht or in a cozy Irish pub, her stories invite readers to embrace life’s messiness.
Why Sarah Grunder Ruiz Matters
Sarah Grunder Ruiz is redefining contemporary romance by centering neurodivergent voices. Her authentic portrayals of ADHD and OCD resonate with readers who see themselves in her characters, while her universal themes of love and resilience appeal to a broad audience. By tackling mental health with sensitivity and humor, she’s carving out a vital space in romance literature, proving that diverse experiences deserve a spotlight.
As a local author in Raleigh, Sarah engages with her community through events at Quail Ridge Books, delighting fans with her warmth and transparency. Her growing bibliography and dedicated readership signal a bright future, with each book inviting more readers into her heartfelt world.
- Born: South Florida
- Key Works: Love, Lists, and Fancy Ships (2021), Luck and Last Resorts (2022), Last Call at the Local (2024)
- Education: MFA in Creative Writing, North Carolina State University
- Fun Fact: Sarah gets a tattoo for every book she publishes!
Snag Last Call at the Local and dive into Sarah Grunder Ruiz’s heartwarming, neurodiverse romance today!