Picture a Washington mom juggling chicken nuggets and dreams of storytelling—meet Sharon M. Peterson! This bestselling romance novelist turned life’s chaos into heartwarming rom-coms like The Do-Over and The Fake Out. With a knack for humor and relatable characters, Peterson’s journey from a middle school teacher to a celebrated author is as inspiring as her books.
The Making of Sharon M. Peterson
Born and raised in Washington, Sharon M. Peterson always harbored a secret dream of writing books. As a former middle school teacher, she navigated the ups and downs of raising four children, two with autism, while mastering the art of microwaving meals and arguing with insurance companies. Her love for stories shone through early, inspired by voracious reading and a knack for finding laughter in tough moments, a trait she credits to Steinbeck’s quote: “It was her habit to build up laughter out of inadequate materials.” In 2015, her witty Facebook rambles led friends to nudge her toward blogging, sparking her writing journey.
Despite financial struggles and a broken laptop, a friend’s gift of a new one in 2017 ignited her determination to pen her first novel. Between parenting chaos and household mishaps, Peterson crafted her debut manuscript, leaning on Twitter resources and local writing groups for support. Her perseverance paid off when she landed an agent just before turning 40, proving it’s never too late to chase dreams.
Sharon M. Peterson’s Unforgettable Stories
Peterson’s novels are a delightful blend of rom-com charm, heartfelt moments, and clean romance, perfect for readers who love humor without steamy scenes. Her debut, The Do-Over (2022), follows Perci, a people-pleaser dumped on live radio, who embarks on a journey of self-love and anti-New Year’s resolutions. Critics, including bestselling author Kristan Higgins, called it “pure delight” for its wit and Texas flair.
Her follow-up, The Fake Out (2023), introduces Mae, a grumpy librarian roped into a fake-dating scheme with a charming NFL star. Packed with cheesy pick-up lines and electric chemistry, it’s a fan favorite for its laugh-out-loud banter and slow-burn romance. Peterson’s third novel, The Fast Lane, continues her signature style, weaving humor and heart. Her stories often feature neurodiverse characters, reflecting her personal experiences, and resonate with readers for their authenticity and warmth.
Peterson’s writing stands out for its relatable heroines, snappy dialogue, and ability to turn everyday struggles into uplifting tales. Her “closed-door” romances focus on emotional connections, earning praise from readers who appreciate her lighthearted, family-friendly narratives. With translations of The Do-Over into three languages, her reach continues to grow.
Why Sharon M. Peterson Matters
Sharon M. Peterson’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that feel like a warm hug, blending humor with resilience. Her novels offer readers an escape while celebrating personal growth and the beauty of imperfect lives. By featuring neurodiverse characters, she brings visibility to underrepresented voices, drawing from her own journey as a mother. Her rise from rejection-filled queries to a two-book deal with Bookouture inspires aspiring authors, showing that persistence can turn dreams into reality.
Peterson’s crowdfunded trip to the Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart contest finalist ceremony in 2018 highlights her community-driven spirit. Her books have carved a niche in the clean romance genre, earning a loyal fanbase and solidifying her as a rising star in contemporary romance.
- Key Works: The Do-Over, The Fake Out, The Fast Lane
- Fun Fact: She has an intense fear of poodles!
- Awards: Finalist, Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Contest
Snag The Do-Over or The Fake Out and dive into Sharon M. Peterson’s heartwarming rom-com world—perfect for a cozy night in!