The following is an interview with USA Today bestselling author Melanie Harlow regarding the recent release of the romance novel, Hart’s Landing, with Entangled Publishing’s Amara imprint. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Harlow about her creative process in bringing the story and characters to life on the page, what readers may take away from the story’s themes, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the recent release of Hart’s Landing! What can you share with us about the genesis behind this project and its overall premise?
Melanie Harlow: I wanted to write a small-town series featuring a group of female friends who find their way back home–and back to each other–as adults after the friendship fractured when they were teenagers. I knew that what caused the fracture was this one particular night when they were trying to honor the friend they lost by doing something brave, but risky. The fun (and challenging) part was figuring out what each of them did, how it affected the others, and why their bond was broken. I love writing a story about returning to your roots. And of course, I knew they would each get a romance!
BD: Your characters are always so incredibly dynamic and layered. In terms of your creative process, how do you approach each new project: Does it begin with the character and their motivations or the story’s concept?
MH: It’s different every time, but in this case, the story’s concept was the framework I was working within, and I created characters and motivations I thought would be compelling and fun to write within the concept.
BD: At Fanbase Press, our #StoriesMatter initiative endeavors to highlight the impact that stories can have on audiences of various mediums. How do you feel that Mila and Everett’s story may connect with and impact today’s readers, and what, if any, conversations do you hope that it might inspire?
MH: I’ve heard from many readers who recognized themselves in Mila in regard to her strained relationship with her mother. I knew when I wrote it that it might make some readers uncomfortable if it hit close to home, but, ultimately, those readers thanked me for putting something they could relate to on the page. They loved seeing Mila come to terms with the fact that she had to stop seeking approval and love her mother wasn’t going to give, but learn that she deserved the love Everett wanted to give her.
BD: Their journey will continue in Book 2 of the series. What are you most excited for readers to experience in the next installment of their story?
MH: I am beyond excited for book 2! Ripley and Yasmine’s story was pure joy from start to finish. Their rivals-to-lovers banter and chemistry sizzles! I had so much fun writing this book, and I hope readers will fall in love, too.
BD: What makes Amara the perfect publishing partner for this story?
MH: My editor! Working with Rebecca Heyman has been a dream come true. She encouraged me every step of the way and was always available to brainstorm and discuss ways the story could go. I know I am a better writer for working with her!
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
MH: In addition to the rest of the Hart’s Landing Series, I have a three-book firefighters series starting in January 2027. The first book is called FEELS LIKE HOME, and I can’t wait to talk more about it. Fans of mine who loved the Cloverleigh Farms Series are in for a treat!
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about Hart’s Landing and your other work?
MH: Subscribing to my twice-monthly newsletter is the best way to find out more about my books and get access to exclusive bonus scenes! I am also active on Facebook in my reader group (Harlow’s Harlots) and on Instagram! I also keep my website updated with new releases, events, and other cool stuff. Links are below!
Newsletter: https://www.melanieharlow.com/subscribe/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/351191341756563
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanie_harlow/
