The Next

From Bestselling Romance To Titanic Tales

DONNA JONES ALWARD

Celebrating Donna Jones Alward’s Journey to Storytelling Excellence

ISSUE 58

This month, Reader’s House Magazine is proud to feature celebrated New York Times bestseller and accomplished author, Donna Jones Alward, on the cover as part of our Star Interviews series. Alward’s deeply moving stories, intricate characters, and historical insight have captivated readers worldwide, making her one of contemporary literature’s most exceptional voices. Her ability to seamlessly immerse readers in tales of resilience, romance, and transformation underscores why Donna belongs at the forefront of our literary discourse.

Since her debut novel in 2006, Donna has won the hearts of readers across the globe with stories that speak of happy endings and profound homecomings—deeply human themes that resonate universally. She has also received accolades that attest to the quality and impact of her work, showcasing her gift for delivering narratives of hope and redemption. Her novels have transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, translated into over a dozen languages and enjoyed by audiences far and wide.

Yet Donna’s journey is more than just a chronicle of commercial success—it is the inspiring story of a woman who dared to look beyond her fears and venture boldly into new territories. From contemporary romance to historical fiction, her writing thrives as she challenges herself, crafting compelling narratives rooted in historical events that shaped generations. Her latest exploration into historical fiction—most notably her new novel Ship of Dreams—is a testament to her creative courage and evolution. Bridging history and humanity, this Titanic-inspired tale reveals secrets and celebrates the enduring power of friendship, leaving readers breathless with emotion.

Donna’s unapologetic love of storytelling stems from her very roots. Growing up in the quaint beauty of Nova Scotia, inspired by her grandmother’s stacks of Harlequins and her mother’s devotion to audiobooks, Donna discovered the magic of literature early on. From her sunporch summers lost in the pages of Anne of Green Gables and The Black Stallion, to her degree in English Literature—which she earned alongside the Creative Writing Prize—Donna’s literary path was seemingly predestined. Yet the journey itself was anything but conventional.

Before stepping into her full-time writing career, Donna embraced diverse roles—working as an administrative assistant, teaching assistant, retailer, and stay-at-home mom. Her journey reminds us that the passion to pursue one’s purpose can bloom even amidst life’s unexpected twists. Her courage to pivot, particularly during the challenging landscape of the pandemic, illustrates not just her resilience, but the heart of her storytelling: to persevere has always been worth the risk.

Donna’s connection to history—whether the Halifax Explosion in When the World Fell Silent or the sinking of the Titanic in Ship of Dreams—illuminates the shared threads that bind humanity: memory, loss, and survival. Her research and imagination blend effortlessly, transporting readers into the vivid tapestry of early 20th-century society and its complex array of challenges. Through her words, we are invited to discover ourselves in history’s footsteps, learning lessons of courage that remain relevant today.

At Reader’s House Magazine, we feature authors who embody excellence, originality, and the spirit of innovation—and Donna Jones Alward epitomizes these qualities. With her masterful storytelling craft and unwavering commitment to her art, Donna enriches our understanding of humanity, prompting us to empathize with people, past and present.

As we celebrate the forthcoming release of Ship of Dreams, we honor Donna not only for being a talented author but for her ability to elevate literature itself—to serve as a lifeline for readers seeking solace, inspiration, and connection. Her characters remind us that even in times of fear and uncertainty, there is always love, hope, and, above all, the potential for redemption.

Welcome to the cover, Donna Jones Alward—your stories inspire us all to dream, to endure, and to find our way back home. ​​

Empowering Readers One Story at a Time

KATHLEEN BROOKS

On Love, Life And Community

ISSUE 59

It is with immense pride and admiration that Reader’s House Magazine features Kathleen Brooks, a multiple-time New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, on the cover of our upcoming issue. With a distinctive voice and remarkable ability to craft worlds and characters that resonate deeply with readers, Kathleen has earned her place among the literary greats.

Kathleen Brooks epitomizes the magic of storytelling, weaving together humor, suspense, romance, and heartfelt moments into unforgettable narratives that transport readers into charming fictional small towns filled with vibrant personalities, quirky animals, and steadfast communities. Her stories radiate warmth and humor, offering escapism while tackling themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and the triumph of good over evil.

One of Kathleen’s greatest gifts to the literary world is her dedication to crafting strong female heroines—women who aren’t afraid to take chances, open their hearts, and embrace their strength. These inspiring characters are complemented by the men who love them, showcasing romances that go beyond clichés to explore authentic relationships rooted in growth, vulnerability, and mutual respect.

Kathleen’s work embodies the universal appeal of romance and romantic suspense while deftly subverting misconceptions about the genre. Her exploration of empowering themes in books like those featuring Paige Turner—a heroine who humorously lives out romance tropes while learning confidence and courage—proves that romance is anything but “fluff.” Instead, her stories are empowering and transformative, capturing the courage it takes to embrace one’s identity and desires.

Having sold millions of books worldwide, Kathleen has created a legacy that transcends traditional publishing success. Her stories have graced the hands and hearts of readers globally, earning her accolades and admiration from audiences of all backgrounds. Whether reading her books in print, digitally, or through audiobook, her fans are united by their love for her compelling tales of humor, hope, and happily-ever-afters.

Kathleen’s journey is as inspiring as her stories. From earning a juris doctorate at the University of Kentucky to practicing law and eventually becoming a full-time writer, she embodies the essence of following one’s passion unapologetically. Her life’s path reflects the tenets of her characters—seizing opportunities, daring to dream, and believing in the power of love and community. And while her fictional towns are captivating, Kathleen remains firmly rooted in Kentucky, where she lives with her family and two adorable dogs—who, we might add, are vying for cameos in her future books.

Featuring Kathleen Brooks in Reader’s House Magazine is not just a celebration of her achievements but a spotlight on the enduring impact of her work. At the heart of Kathleen’s success lies her ability to unite readers through laughter, suspense, and heartfelt romance, making her stories cherished literary treasures. As we celebrate Kathleen Brooks, we also celebrate the joy, hope, and empowerment she brings to readers across the globe—one book and one heroine at a time.

We’re thrilled to bring Kathleen’s incredible journey, her love for storytelling, and her wisdom to our Star Interview, where she will share insights into her creative process, inspirations, and her vision for the romance genre. For fans and aspiring writers alike, this issue promises to be one to treasure.

Congratulations, Kathleen Brooks, and thank you for gifting the literary world with your brilliance. Your work reminds us all that humor, love, and community are the greatest stories we can tell—and live.