Jess Harley's Blog, page 6
July 8, 2025
Summer Distractions, Stone Sealers, and Romance Writing
Ah, summer. That blissful time when I convince myself that lounging in the garden with a glass of wine is in fact part of my writing process.
I sat down the other day, notebook in hand, ready to dive into the steamy tension between my two leads — when I got completely derailed. Why? Because a group of rather determined (and, let’s be honest, distractingly hard-working) men from The Stone Cleaning Shop turned up to clean and seal my patio.
Now, before you accuse me of getting too invested in domestic aesthetics, let me just say — watching moss and years of grime get power-washed away is surprisingly satisfying. It's like watching a toxic ex get blocked: cleansing, dramatic, and weirdly empowering.
But here’s the kicker — it got me thinking. As a romance author, I’m all about tension and release (not just that kind, behave), and there was something poetic about watching this team work away, transforming my tired old stone into something pristine and protected. They used professional stone sealers and patio sealers, and I swear my garden has never looked better — which naturally makes it a perfect writing retreat now.
So yes, I should have been writing steamy dialogue. But instead, I ended up mentally outlining a new scene: flirty glances over a power washer, lingering tension while choosing grout color, maybe a forbidden love between the landscape designer and the aloof-but-secretly-swoony homeowner…
Anyway, long story short: if your patio is looking tired and uninspired, I highly recommend The Stone Cleaning Shop. If you're looking for summer reads with a bit of cheek and a lot of heart — well, that’s where I come in.
Back to writing now… after one more glass of wine.
— Jess Harley
Author of messy WLW romances, garden dreamer, and professional procrastinator
I sat down the other day, notebook in hand, ready to dive into the steamy tension between my two leads — when I got completely derailed. Why? Because a group of rather determined (and, let’s be honest, distractingly hard-working) men from The Stone Cleaning Shop turned up to clean and seal my patio.
Now, before you accuse me of getting too invested in domestic aesthetics, let me just say — watching moss and years of grime get power-washed away is surprisingly satisfying. It's like watching a toxic ex get blocked: cleansing, dramatic, and weirdly empowering.
But here’s the kicker — it got me thinking. As a romance author, I’m all about tension and release (not just that kind, behave), and there was something poetic about watching this team work away, transforming my tired old stone into something pristine and protected. They used professional stone sealers and patio sealers, and I swear my garden has never looked better — which naturally makes it a perfect writing retreat now.
So yes, I should have been writing steamy dialogue. But instead, I ended up mentally outlining a new scene: flirty glances over a power washer, lingering tension while choosing grout color, maybe a forbidden love between the landscape designer and the aloof-but-secretly-swoony homeowner…
Anyway, long story short: if your patio is looking tired and uninspired, I highly recommend The Stone Cleaning Shop. If you're looking for summer reads with a bit of cheek and a lot of heart — well, that’s where I come in.
Back to writing now… after one more glass of wine.
— Jess Harley
Author of messy WLW romances, garden dreamer, and professional procrastinator
Lesbian Romance You’ll Obsess Over: Second Takes is Out Now — and Unwritten is Coming
Second Takes: A Slow-Burn Sapphic Romance (Second Chances Collection Book 1)If you love lesbian fiction, angsty sapphic love stories, and second-chance romance with a side of scandal — meet your next two reads.
I'm Jess Harley, author of emotional, steamy LGBTQ+ short stories and lesbian romance packed with drama, love, and chaos.
Unwritten is coming. And if you're into lesbian fiction with angst, heartache, and tension so thick you could scream into it — you're going to love this one.
🎤 Zara, a breakout singer with the voice of a goddess and a guarded heart, once loved Noa — a stunning, closeted Hollywood actress. Their secret romance ended in heartbreak when Noa chose her career over love. Now, years later, Noa is back, bringing with her an indie film based on their story, an invitation to the premiere, and a whole lot of emotional chaos.
And then… she leaks the tape.
Accidentally.
Maybe.
💔 Messy, sexy, emotional — Unwritten is a second chance lesbian romance full of raw tension, unresolved love, jealousy, and the complex push-pull between passion and betrayal. It's coming soon, so keep your eyes (and hearts) open.
While you wait, dive into my current release:
🎬 Second Takes — Out now on Amazon!
Two actresses. One fake dating setup. Zero chill.
Enemies-to-lovers meets forced proximity in a sapphic slow burn with snappy banter, undeniable chemistry, and all the queer longing you crave. This one’s already getting love from readers who adore lesbian romance with depth, humour, and heart.
👉 Read Second Takes now on Amazon
👉 Unwritten is coming soon — follow to get first dibs!
I'm Jess Harley, author of emotional, steamy LGBTQ+ short stories and lesbian romance packed with drama, love, and chaos.
Unwritten is coming. And if you're into lesbian fiction with angst, heartache, and tension so thick you could scream into it — you're going to love this one.
🎤 Zara, a breakout singer with the voice of a goddess and a guarded heart, once loved Noa — a stunning, closeted Hollywood actress. Their secret romance ended in heartbreak when Noa chose her career over love. Now, years later, Noa is back, bringing with her an indie film based on their story, an invitation to the premiere, and a whole lot of emotional chaos.
And then… she leaks the tape.
Accidentally.
Maybe.
💔 Messy, sexy, emotional — Unwritten is a second chance lesbian romance full of raw tension, unresolved love, jealousy, and the complex push-pull between passion and betrayal. It's coming soon, so keep your eyes (and hearts) open.
While you wait, dive into my current release:
🎬 Second Takes — Out now on Amazon!
Two actresses. One fake dating setup. Zero chill.
Enemies-to-lovers meets forced proximity in a sapphic slow burn with snappy banter, undeniable chemistry, and all the queer longing you crave. This one’s already getting love from readers who adore lesbian romance with depth, humour, and heart.
👉 Read Second Takes now on Amazon
👉 Unwritten is coming soon — follow to get first dibs!
July 7, 2025
Why I Write Lesbian Fiction (and Why It's Always a Little Messy) Jess Harley
Someone recently told me, "You’ve got big ‘writes chaos, delivers core strength’ vibes," and honestly? I’ve never felt so seen.
Hi, I’m Jess Harley, and I write lesbian fiction — the kind where the women are over 30, the baggage is emotional and designer, and the love stories come with real-life messiness, tenderness, and occasional sarcasm-induced whiplash.
I started writing because I couldn’t find enough lesbian books where the characters weren’t just coming out, but also coming into their own. I wanted complicated, confident women who flirt at farmers markets, fall in love slowly (or disastrously fast), and text their therapist before their love interest.
My characters are queer, chaotic, and frequently kissing in emotionally fraught situations. They have dogs, divorces, and exes with great hair. They’re not always “likable,” but they’re always real. And if you’re into WLW romance, sapphic slow burns, and lesbian stories with actual plot, you’re in the right place.
So if you're looking for:
Lesbian authors writing funny, flawed, fabulous women
WLW fiction that’s equal parts heart and humor
And maybe a few “Oh my god, did she just say that?” moments…
Follow me here on Goodreads, stalk my upcoming releases, and let’s be honest — we both know you’re here for the pining.
Hi, I’m Jess Harley, and I write lesbian fiction — the kind where the women are over 30, the baggage is emotional and designer, and the love stories come with real-life messiness, tenderness, and occasional sarcasm-induced whiplash.
I started writing because I couldn’t find enough lesbian books where the characters weren’t just coming out, but also coming into their own. I wanted complicated, confident women who flirt at farmers markets, fall in love slowly (or disastrously fast), and text their therapist before their love interest.
My characters are queer, chaotic, and frequently kissing in emotionally fraught situations. They have dogs, divorces, and exes with great hair. They’re not always “likable,” but they’re always real. And if you’re into WLW romance, sapphic slow burns, and lesbian stories with actual plot, you’re in the right place.
So if you're looking for:
Lesbian authors writing funny, flawed, fabulous women
WLW fiction that’s equal parts heart and humor
And maybe a few “Oh my god, did she just say that?” moments…
Follow me here on Goodreads, stalk my upcoming releases, and let’s be honest — we both know you’re here for the pining.
July 6, 2025
The Funniest Online Personal Trainer Story I’ve Read!
I just had to share this because it genuinely made me laugh out loud! If you’ve ever tried to stick with a fitness plan (and failed spectacularly—like me!), you’ll love My Online Personal Trainer: A Diary of Sweat and Laughter by Move_With_Ally on Wattpad.
It’s a funny, feel-good diary-style story about the ups and downs of working out with an online personal trainer—something I know all too well because I actually join Ally’s fitness classes myself on her Patreon! She runs Move With Ally, a brilliant online fitness brand, and this story perfectly captures the humor, the struggle, and the sweaty reality of it all.
It’s a quick, absolutely free read on Wattpad or Patreon and I think anyone who’s ever tried (and failed… and tried again!) to get in shape will find it totally relatable.
If you check it out, let me know—I’d love to hear what you think!
It’s a funny, feel-good diary-style story about the ups and downs of working out with an online personal trainer—something I know all too well because I actually join Ally’s fitness classes myself on her Patreon! She runs Move With Ally, a brilliant online fitness brand, and this story perfectly captures the humor, the struggle, and the sweaty reality of it all.
It’s a quick, absolutely free read on Wattpad or Patreon and I think anyone who’s ever tried (and failed… and tried again!) to get in shape will find it totally relatable.
If you check it out, let me know—I’d love to hear what you think!
July 5, 2025
How Social Media Became a Game-Changer for Lesbian Romance Books – And Why Second Takes Is One to Watch By Jess Harley, Lesbian Author
In today’s digital age, writing a book is only half the journey—getting it into readers’ hands is the other half. As a lesbian romance author, I’ve seen firsthand how platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Goodreads can take a quietly released book and turn it into a word-of-mouth sensation.
When I published Second Takes, the first in my Second Chances Collection, I hoped it would resonate with readers who crave emotional, character-driven sapphic stories. What I didn’t expect was the way it quietly began to gain traction online—especially on TikTok.
While I can’t confirm exact numbers or viral claims, I’ve noticed that Second Takes has been showing up in TikTok search results more often, and that’s no small thing. That kind of organic attention, even in small waves, matters. In the realm of lesbian romance books, where visibility is everything, a few mentions can snowball into something meaningful. Even a single TikTok post can be the spark that drives new readers to discover your work, add it to their TBR pile, and start talking.
Why Social Media Matters for Queer Authors
For indie and LGBTQ+ authors like me, social media isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Traditional publishing avenues and mainstream coverage often overlook lesbian romance books, so social platforms give us the chance to carve out space and connect directly with readers who are actively looking for diverse, inclusive stories.
Here’s what social media has done for my journey:
Amplified reach beyond what I could manage alone
Connected me with a passionate sapphic reader base hungry for slow-burn, second-chance love stories
Sparked conversations about characters, tropes, and representation that traditional marketing never could
Second Takes – A Sapphic Romance with Heart
If you haven’t read Second Takes yet, now’s the perfect time. It’s a slow-burn lesbian romance about fame, forgiveness, and the kind of love that refuses to fade. Tali is Hollywood’s golden girl. Rin is the one that got away. When a film reunion brings them back into each other's orbit, sparks fly—and old wounds reopen.
Whether you found the book on TikTok, through a friend, or just stumbled across it today, Second Takes is made for readers who believe in second chances and sapphic love stories that feel real.
💬 Have you seen Second Takes pop up on your feed? Are you a fan of WLW slow-burns with emotional depth? Let me know in the comments—or share your favorite recent lesbian romance reads!
📚 Read Second Takes on Amazon and KU, and don’t forget to follow me on Patreon @JessHarleyBooks for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes peeks at my upcoming book Unwritten, and more updates from the world of queer romance.
With love,
Jess Harley
Lesbian Romance Author | Second Chances Collection
When I published Second Takes, the first in my Second Chances Collection, I hoped it would resonate with readers who crave emotional, character-driven sapphic stories. What I didn’t expect was the way it quietly began to gain traction online—especially on TikTok.
While I can’t confirm exact numbers or viral claims, I’ve noticed that Second Takes has been showing up in TikTok search results more often, and that’s no small thing. That kind of organic attention, even in small waves, matters. In the realm of lesbian romance books, where visibility is everything, a few mentions can snowball into something meaningful. Even a single TikTok post can be the spark that drives new readers to discover your work, add it to their TBR pile, and start talking.
Why Social Media Matters for Queer Authors
For indie and LGBTQ+ authors like me, social media isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Traditional publishing avenues and mainstream coverage often overlook lesbian romance books, so social platforms give us the chance to carve out space and connect directly with readers who are actively looking for diverse, inclusive stories.
Here’s what social media has done for my journey:
Amplified reach beyond what I could manage alone
Connected me with a passionate sapphic reader base hungry for slow-burn, second-chance love stories
Sparked conversations about characters, tropes, and representation that traditional marketing never could
Second Takes – A Sapphic Romance with Heart
If you haven’t read Second Takes yet, now’s the perfect time. It’s a slow-burn lesbian romance about fame, forgiveness, and the kind of love that refuses to fade. Tali is Hollywood’s golden girl. Rin is the one that got away. When a film reunion brings them back into each other's orbit, sparks fly—and old wounds reopen.
Whether you found the book on TikTok, through a friend, or just stumbled across it today, Second Takes is made for readers who believe in second chances and sapphic love stories that feel real.
💬 Have you seen Second Takes pop up on your feed? Are you a fan of WLW slow-burns with emotional depth? Let me know in the comments—or share your favorite recent lesbian romance reads!
📚 Read Second Takes on Amazon and KU, and don’t forget to follow me on Patreon @JessHarleyBooks for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes peeks at my upcoming book Unwritten, and more updates from the world of queer romance.
With love,
Jess Harley
Lesbian Romance Author | Second Chances Collection
July 4, 2025
Lesbian Romance Books: Popular Tropes & Trends with Author Jess Harley by Jess Harley
Lesbian Romance Books: Jess Harley
When it comes to lesbian romance books, the genre has exploded with creativity, representation, and emotional depth in recent years—and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of that wave as an author. I’m Jess Harley, and I write queer love stories full of heart, awkward charm, slow burns, and emotional payoffs. In this post, I’m diving into some of the most popular—and evolving—tropes in lesbian romance, plus what’s trending right now in the sapphic lit space.
Whether you’re a reader, writer, or just sapphic-curious, welcome.
💘 Classic Tropes in Lesbian Romance Books
These tropes have stood the test of time—and for good reason. They deliver comfort, chemistry, and all the swoon-worthy moments we crave:
1. Friends to Lovers
One of the most beloved tropes in lesbian romance books. The emotional intimacy between women lends itself beautifully to stories where friendship deepens into love—sometimes after years of pining.
2. Enemies to Lovers
Who doesn’t love a little tension? Whether it’s workplace rivals, academic competitors, or exes forced to work together, this trope gives us all the longing and slow-burn goodness.
3. Fake Dating
This trope is made for romantic chaos—two women pretending to be a couple for convenience, only to catch very real feelings. Add in meddling families or holiday pressure? Chef’s kiss.
4. Second Chance Romance
There’s something especially poignant about women reconnecting after years apart—often with unresolved feelings, miscommunication, or a changed understanding of themselves. This trope lets us explore queer identity and healing in powerful ways. I love writing second chance romance, and my books Second Takes and Unwritten fit perfectly in to this trope.
5. The Closet/Coming Out Conflict
While not as dominant as it once was, this trope still appears, especially when layered with cultural or generational dynamics. The modern twist? More focus on personal agency, and less on shame.
🌈 What’s Trending Now in Lesbian Romance Books
The genre is expanding fast—and so are the tropes readers are hungry for. Here’s what’s hot right now:
🔥 Grumpy/Sunshine (Sapphic Edition)
This dynamic is everywhere—and we love it. Think a tightly-wound lawyer falling for a free-spirited florist. Emotional contrast = instant chemistry.
👶 Found Family + Parenthood
More stories now include queer women navigating unexpected caregiving roles: from surprise babies to taking care of nieces/nephews. It adds depth, warmth, and high stakes to sapphic love stories.
🏡 Small Town Settings with Big Heart
We’re seeing a rise in cozy, small-town lesbian romances where community, connection, and healing play major roles. Think Gilmore Girls but sapphic and emotionally satisfying.
🎬 Celebrity/Famous Person + Normal Girl
This fantasy-driven trope remains a fan favorite. Who doesn’t want to imagine their favorite actress falling for a barista? It plays with power dynamics, secrecy, and wish fulfillment.
🧠 Queer Self-Discovery After 30
Lesbian romance books are increasingly reflecting more mature journeys—especially stories where a woman realizes her queerness later in life. It’s beautiful, complicated, and so needed.
💡 How It’s Changed
What excites me most is how lesbian romance is no longer limited to coming-out stories or tragedy. Today’s sapphic books are:
More joyful
More diverse (in race, age, body types, neurodiversity, etc.)
More willing to explore messiness and humor
More inclusive of bi, pan, and queer characters without erasure
We're getting queer stories where the romance isn't a "problem to solve," but a space to grow, be vulnerable, and feel seen. That shift is everything.
✍️ Why I Write Lesbian Romance Books (And Why You Should Read More)
As Jess Harley, I write lesbian romance because I believe queer women deserve stories full of joy, awkward flirting, self-discovery, and happily-ever-afters. I’m drawn to the tension between who we think we are and who we allow ourselves to become—especially through the eyes of someone who loves us.
Whether it’s a slow burn between co-stars, an oblivious flirtation in the office, or a messy self-discovery at a wedding (👀 new book coming soon), I hope my stories bring you laughter, healing, and maybe a little swoon.
💬 What tropes do you love—or want to see more of—in lesbian romance books? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Goodread, Instagram and TikTok @JessHarleyx or Patreon @JessHarleyBooks. Let’s keep building this beautiful, sapphic bookshelf together.
– Jess Harley
When it comes to lesbian romance books, the genre has exploded with creativity, representation, and emotional depth in recent years—and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of that wave as an author. I’m Jess Harley, and I write queer love stories full of heart, awkward charm, slow burns, and emotional payoffs. In this post, I’m diving into some of the most popular—and evolving—tropes in lesbian romance, plus what’s trending right now in the sapphic lit space.
Whether you’re a reader, writer, or just sapphic-curious, welcome.
💘 Classic Tropes in Lesbian Romance Books
These tropes have stood the test of time—and for good reason. They deliver comfort, chemistry, and all the swoon-worthy moments we crave:
1. Friends to Lovers
One of the most beloved tropes in lesbian romance books. The emotional intimacy between women lends itself beautifully to stories where friendship deepens into love—sometimes after years of pining.
2. Enemies to Lovers
Who doesn’t love a little tension? Whether it’s workplace rivals, academic competitors, or exes forced to work together, this trope gives us all the longing and slow-burn goodness.
3. Fake Dating
This trope is made for romantic chaos—two women pretending to be a couple for convenience, only to catch very real feelings. Add in meddling families or holiday pressure? Chef’s kiss.
4. Second Chance Romance
There’s something especially poignant about women reconnecting after years apart—often with unresolved feelings, miscommunication, or a changed understanding of themselves. This trope lets us explore queer identity and healing in powerful ways. I love writing second chance romance, and my books Second Takes and Unwritten fit perfectly in to this trope.
5. The Closet/Coming Out Conflict
While not as dominant as it once was, this trope still appears, especially when layered with cultural or generational dynamics. The modern twist? More focus on personal agency, and less on shame.
🌈 What’s Trending Now in Lesbian Romance Books
The genre is expanding fast—and so are the tropes readers are hungry for. Here’s what’s hot right now:
🔥 Grumpy/Sunshine (Sapphic Edition)
This dynamic is everywhere—and we love it. Think a tightly-wound lawyer falling for a free-spirited florist. Emotional contrast = instant chemistry.
👶 Found Family + Parenthood
More stories now include queer women navigating unexpected caregiving roles: from surprise babies to taking care of nieces/nephews. It adds depth, warmth, and high stakes to sapphic love stories.
🏡 Small Town Settings with Big Heart
We’re seeing a rise in cozy, small-town lesbian romances where community, connection, and healing play major roles. Think Gilmore Girls but sapphic and emotionally satisfying.
🎬 Celebrity/Famous Person + Normal Girl
This fantasy-driven trope remains a fan favorite. Who doesn’t want to imagine their favorite actress falling for a barista? It plays with power dynamics, secrecy, and wish fulfillment.
🧠 Queer Self-Discovery After 30
Lesbian romance books are increasingly reflecting more mature journeys—especially stories where a woman realizes her queerness later in life. It’s beautiful, complicated, and so needed.
💡 How It’s Changed
What excites me most is how lesbian romance is no longer limited to coming-out stories or tragedy. Today’s sapphic books are:
More joyful
More diverse (in race, age, body types, neurodiversity, etc.)
More willing to explore messiness and humor
More inclusive of bi, pan, and queer characters without erasure
We're getting queer stories where the romance isn't a "problem to solve," but a space to grow, be vulnerable, and feel seen. That shift is everything.
✍️ Why I Write Lesbian Romance Books (And Why You Should Read More)
As Jess Harley, I write lesbian romance because I believe queer women deserve stories full of joy, awkward flirting, self-discovery, and happily-ever-afters. I’m drawn to the tension between who we think we are and who we allow ourselves to become—especially through the eyes of someone who loves us.
Whether it’s a slow burn between co-stars, an oblivious flirtation in the office, or a messy self-discovery at a wedding (👀 new book coming soon), I hope my stories bring you laughter, healing, and maybe a little swoon.
💬 What tropes do you love—or want to see more of—in lesbian romance books? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Goodread, Instagram and TikTok @JessHarleyx or Patreon @JessHarleyBooks. Let’s keep building this beautiful, sapphic bookshelf together.
– Jess Harley
Behind the Scenes: Writing Lesbian Romance as Jess Harley by Jess Harley
If you’ve landed here, chances are you love lesbian romance as much as I do—whether it’s the slow-burn kind that makes your heart ache or the flirty, fast-paced novellas that keep you turning pages into the night. I’m Jess Harley, and I write sapphic stories full of emotional depth, yearning, and a good dash of awkward charm. Today I’m pulling back the curtain to share how I craft my lesbian romance stories—from character development to deciding whether a tale wants to be a novella or a full-length novel.
Starting With the Spark: Character First, Always
For me, writing lesbian romance always begins with the characters. I'm drawn to flawed, funny, resilient women—ones who often don’t realize how lovable they are until someone else sees it in them. I spend a lot of time building their emotional backstory before I even touch the plot. I want to know what they’re afraid of, what they secretly want, and what kind of girl might challenge everything they think they know about themselves.
Sometimes the pairing arrives fully formed in my mind: a driven career woman who’s never had time for love, and the chaotic artist who turns her world upside down. Other times, it’s slower. I play with opposites, shared history, or the tension of a missed connection—especially delicious in lesbian romance where representation of real, complex dynamics still feels so vital.
The Dance Between Novella and Novel
One of the most exciting (and challenging) parts of writing lesbian romance is deciding how long the story needs to be.
Novellas (around 20k–40k words) are perfect for high-concept, emotionally punchy love stories. I turn to this format when the premise is tight, the chemistry is instant, or the timeline is compressed—think a Christmas fling, a weekend retreat, or two rivals trapped in a snowstorm.
Novels (60k+ words) give room to explore deeper character arcs, complicated pasts, and those slow-burn relationships that simmer before they finally spark. These are great when the story involves a transformation, healing from past wounds, or when external stakes (family, careers, secrets) play a big role in the journey.
Both forms are valid and powerful. Some stories beg to be long and messy; others are short, sweet, and utterly satisfying. I don’t try to force a format. I listen to the characters, and they usually let me know.
Planning (Without Killing the Magic)
I’m a plotter at heart, but not a rigid one. I start with a basic roadmap: who these women are, what gets in their way, and how they’ll grow together. I write emotional beats more than scenes at first—moments where one character sees the other in a new light, confesses something vulnerable, or misreads a signal that leads to heartache or hilarity.
In lesbian romance, there’s also a unique intimacy in how women fall for each other—a blend of friendship, emotional mirroring, and deep empathy. I take my time to build that trust on the page.
But even with all that planning, the characters surprise me. That’s the best part.
Why Lesbian Romance?
Because we need more stories where queer women get to be messy, funny, angry, soft, ambitious, and madly in love. I write lesbian romance because I didn’t see enough of myself in the books I grew up with—and I want my stories to be a mirror and a celebration.
If you’ve read any of my books, you’ll know I adore writing slow-burn tension, awkward flirting, and emotionally layered payoffs. I love writing stories where two women truly see each other—and choose love anyway.
Thanks for reading—and if you’re a fellow lesbian romance writer (or reader!), I’d love to hear about your favorite tropes or what draws you to this genre. Let’s celebrate sapphic stories together.
– Jess Harley Instagram / TikTok @JessHarleyx
Starting With the Spark: Character First, Always
For me, writing lesbian romance always begins with the characters. I'm drawn to flawed, funny, resilient women—ones who often don’t realize how lovable they are until someone else sees it in them. I spend a lot of time building their emotional backstory before I even touch the plot. I want to know what they’re afraid of, what they secretly want, and what kind of girl might challenge everything they think they know about themselves.
Sometimes the pairing arrives fully formed in my mind: a driven career woman who’s never had time for love, and the chaotic artist who turns her world upside down. Other times, it’s slower. I play with opposites, shared history, or the tension of a missed connection—especially delicious in lesbian romance where representation of real, complex dynamics still feels so vital.
The Dance Between Novella and Novel
One of the most exciting (and challenging) parts of writing lesbian romance is deciding how long the story needs to be.
Novellas (around 20k–40k words) are perfect for high-concept, emotionally punchy love stories. I turn to this format when the premise is tight, the chemistry is instant, or the timeline is compressed—think a Christmas fling, a weekend retreat, or two rivals trapped in a snowstorm.
Novels (60k+ words) give room to explore deeper character arcs, complicated pasts, and those slow-burn relationships that simmer before they finally spark. These are great when the story involves a transformation, healing from past wounds, or when external stakes (family, careers, secrets) play a big role in the journey.
Both forms are valid and powerful. Some stories beg to be long and messy; others are short, sweet, and utterly satisfying. I don’t try to force a format. I listen to the characters, and they usually let me know.
Planning (Without Killing the Magic)
I’m a plotter at heart, but not a rigid one. I start with a basic roadmap: who these women are, what gets in their way, and how they’ll grow together. I write emotional beats more than scenes at first—moments where one character sees the other in a new light, confesses something vulnerable, or misreads a signal that leads to heartache or hilarity.
In lesbian romance, there’s also a unique intimacy in how women fall for each other—a blend of friendship, emotional mirroring, and deep empathy. I take my time to build that trust on the page.
But even with all that planning, the characters surprise me. That’s the best part.
Why Lesbian Romance?
Because we need more stories where queer women get to be messy, funny, angry, soft, ambitious, and madly in love. I write lesbian romance because I didn’t see enough of myself in the books I grew up with—and I want my stories to be a mirror and a celebration.
If you’ve read any of my books, you’ll know I adore writing slow-burn tension, awkward flirting, and emotionally layered payoffs. I love writing stories where two women truly see each other—and choose love anyway.
Thanks for reading—and if you’re a fellow lesbian romance writer (or reader!), I’d love to hear about your favorite tropes or what draws you to this genre. Let’s celebrate sapphic stories together.
– Jess Harley Instagram / TikTok @JessHarleyx
Lesbian Romance by Jess Harley
Your next favorite slow-burn, second-chance love story is calling...
Hi readers! I’m Jess Harley—writer of angst, awkwardness, and a good old-fashioned yearning stare across a crowded room.
If you’ve landed here searching for lesbian romance books, welcome. You’re clearly someone of taste. Whether you’re in your cozy-reading era, your emotionally-devastated-by-sapphics phase, or just casually hunting for your next WLW read, I’ve got you.
Let me introduce you to my novel, share a few favorite lesbian romance reads, and offer some recommendations that belong on every queer bookshelf.
💬 What I Write: Lesbian Romance, With a Twist
My sapphic debut, Second Takes, is all about two actresses who once broke each other’s hearts—and now have to fake-smile their way through filming a spy movie together... while co-parenting a baby. Yes, there’s unresolved tension. Yes, there’s a slow-burn. And yes, there’s a dramatic monologue or two.
It’s a lesbian romance for readers who love:
Second chances (but make it painfully emotional)
Found family (with a baby twist)
Longing, banter, and fake professionalism
Queer joy with a side of existential crisis
If you’ve ever wanted to scream "Just kiss already!" at a fictional couple, you’re my people.
📚 Some Favorite Lesbian Romance Books
While you're here, let me be your sapphic book dealer. Here are a few lesbian romance books I love and recommend:
Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashley Herring Blake
Chaotic bisexual meets uptight perfectionist. Banter, heat, and a whole lot of heart.
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
Dominican pastry chef. Scottish rival. Christmas baking competition. What’s not to love?
Something to Talk About by Meryl Wilsner
The slowest of burns between a Hollywood power player and her assistant.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Not technically romance genre—but a legendary, emotionally rich story about queer love and Hollywood secrets.
And of course the sensational new title in lesbian romance - Second Takes by Jess Harley!
🛒 Searching for Lesbian Romance on Amazon?
If you often search for things like lesbian romance books, sapphic love stories, or WLW slow burn, those are the exact kinds of stories I write and love to read. So if that’s your jam, check out Second Takes and let me know what you think.
You can follow me here on Goodreads or on TikTok @JessHarleyx / Instagram @JessHarleyBooks
Thanks for being here, and happy reading!
Got a favorite lesbian romance? Comment below and wreck my TBR. I dare you
Hi readers! I’m Jess Harley—writer of angst, awkwardness, and a good old-fashioned yearning stare across a crowded room.
If you’ve landed here searching for lesbian romance books, welcome. You’re clearly someone of taste. Whether you’re in your cozy-reading era, your emotionally-devastated-by-sapphics phase, or just casually hunting for your next WLW read, I’ve got you.
Let me introduce you to my novel, share a few favorite lesbian romance reads, and offer some recommendations that belong on every queer bookshelf.
💬 What I Write: Lesbian Romance, With a Twist
My sapphic debut, Second Takes, is all about two actresses who once broke each other’s hearts—and now have to fake-smile their way through filming a spy movie together... while co-parenting a baby. Yes, there’s unresolved tension. Yes, there’s a slow-burn. And yes, there’s a dramatic monologue or two.
It’s a lesbian romance for readers who love:
Second chances (but make it painfully emotional)
Found family (with a baby twist)
Longing, banter, and fake professionalism
Queer joy with a side of existential crisis
If you’ve ever wanted to scream "Just kiss already!" at a fictional couple, you’re my people.
📚 Some Favorite Lesbian Romance Books
While you're here, let me be your sapphic book dealer. Here are a few lesbian romance books I love and recommend:
Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashley Herring Blake
Chaotic bisexual meets uptight perfectionist. Banter, heat, and a whole lot of heart.
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
Dominican pastry chef. Scottish rival. Christmas baking competition. What’s not to love?
Something to Talk About by Meryl Wilsner
The slowest of burns between a Hollywood power player and her assistant.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Not technically romance genre—but a legendary, emotionally rich story about queer love and Hollywood secrets.
And of course the sensational new title in lesbian romance - Second Takes by Jess Harley!
🛒 Searching for Lesbian Romance on Amazon?
If you often search for things like lesbian romance books, sapphic love stories, or WLW slow burn, those are the exact kinds of stories I write and love to read. So if that’s your jam, check out Second Takes and let me know what you think.
You can follow me here on Goodreads or on TikTok @JessHarleyx / Instagram @JessHarleyBooks
Thanks for being here, and happy reading!
Got a favorite lesbian romance? Comment below and wreck my TBR. I dare you
July 1, 2025
My Top Lesbian Book Recommendations for 2025
Every year I tell myself “You’re going to read fewer books and focus on your goals.” And every year sapphic authors say “Here’s a beautiful, heart-breaking, slow-burn lesbian love story” and I cave like a cheap lawn chair.
So if you, like me, are hopelessly addicted to WLW fiction, here are my top picks for 2025 (with a mix of new releases, timeless faves, and a cheeky self-plug). Let’s destroy your TBR together.
1. Second Takes – by Jess Harley
Two actresses. One baby. Zero chill.
When exes Tali and Rin are cast in a Hollywood spy film—and unexpectedly tasked with caring for a baby together—things get... complicated. It’s got angst, fake smiles, longing stares across a film set, and that delicious slow-burn second-chance tension. If you like emotional chaos wrapped in professional chaos, this is your next read. (Yes, I wrote it. Yes, I’m biased. Yes, you should still read it.)
2. Delilah Green Doesn’t Care – by Ashley Herring Blake
Delilah doesn’t care. But you will.
This one’s perfect for readers who love messy bisexual energy, a reluctant return to a small town, and falling for your stepsister’s best friend. The banter is razor-sharp, the chemistry sizzles, and the emotional payoff is totally worth the slow build.
3. Mangos and Mistletoe – by Adriana Herrera
Bakers. Competitions. Tension so thick you’ll need a spatula.
A Dominican pastry chef and a Scottish kitchen queen team up for a Christmas baking competition, only to discover their biggest rival might be… their own feelings. Short, sweet, spicy, and packed with festive flavour.
4. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – by Taylor Jenkins Reid
If sapphic slow-burns were an Olympic sport, Evelyn Hugo would take gold.
Okay, so this one’s not strictly “lesbian fiction” by genre, but it’s so iconic, emotional, and steeped in Old Hollywood glamour that it belongs here. A legendary actress looks back on her scandalous past—including the woman she really loved.
5. Something to Talk About – by Meryl Wilsner
Fake dating meets real feelings, with a whole lot of workplace slow burn.
When a red carpet photo sparks romance rumours between a Hollywood powerhouse and her assistant, things start heating up behind the scenes. If you like professional boundaries being gently obliterated, you’ll love this.
6. Legends & Lattes – by Travis Baldree
Okay, it’s technically fantasy—but there’s coffee. And lesbians. So it counts.
A retired orc warrior opens a coffee shop instead of going on more bloody adventures. It’s cozy, gentle, and has all the warm fuzzies you need, along with a subtle sapphic romance that brews slowly, just like the perfect espresso.
Final Thoughts
If 2025 is the year you give your heart fully to queer romance, these books have you covered—from moody actresses to flirtatious baristas, emotional reboots to festive baking disasters.
Add them to your shelf, ignore your responsibilities, and fall in love (again and again).
Have a sapphic favourite I missed?
Drop it in the comments!
My TBR is already unmanageable, what’s one more?
So if you, like me, are hopelessly addicted to WLW fiction, here are my top picks for 2025 (with a mix of new releases, timeless faves, and a cheeky self-plug). Let’s destroy your TBR together.
1. Second Takes – by Jess Harley
Two actresses. One baby. Zero chill.
When exes Tali and Rin are cast in a Hollywood spy film—and unexpectedly tasked with caring for a baby together—things get... complicated. It’s got angst, fake smiles, longing stares across a film set, and that delicious slow-burn second-chance tension. If you like emotional chaos wrapped in professional chaos, this is your next read. (Yes, I wrote it. Yes, I’m biased. Yes, you should still read it.)
2. Delilah Green Doesn’t Care – by Ashley Herring Blake
Delilah doesn’t care. But you will.
This one’s perfect for readers who love messy bisexual energy, a reluctant return to a small town, and falling for your stepsister’s best friend. The banter is razor-sharp, the chemistry sizzles, and the emotional payoff is totally worth the slow build.
3. Mangos and Mistletoe – by Adriana Herrera
Bakers. Competitions. Tension so thick you’ll need a spatula.
A Dominican pastry chef and a Scottish kitchen queen team up for a Christmas baking competition, only to discover their biggest rival might be… their own feelings. Short, sweet, spicy, and packed with festive flavour.
4. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – by Taylor Jenkins Reid
If sapphic slow-burns were an Olympic sport, Evelyn Hugo would take gold.
Okay, so this one’s not strictly “lesbian fiction” by genre, but it’s so iconic, emotional, and steeped in Old Hollywood glamour that it belongs here. A legendary actress looks back on her scandalous past—including the woman she really loved.
5. Something to Talk About – by Meryl Wilsner
Fake dating meets real feelings, with a whole lot of workplace slow burn.
When a red carpet photo sparks romance rumours between a Hollywood powerhouse and her assistant, things start heating up behind the scenes. If you like professional boundaries being gently obliterated, you’ll love this.
6. Legends & Lattes – by Travis Baldree
Okay, it’s technically fantasy—but there’s coffee. And lesbians. So it counts.
A retired orc warrior opens a coffee shop instead of going on more bloody adventures. It’s cozy, gentle, and has all the warm fuzzies you need, along with a subtle sapphic romance that brews slowly, just like the perfect espresso.
Final Thoughts
If 2025 is the year you give your heart fully to queer romance, these books have you covered—from moody actresses to flirtatious baristas, emotional reboots to festive baking disasters.
Add them to your shelf, ignore your responsibilities, and fall in love (again and again).
Have a sapphic favourite I missed?
Drop it in the comments!
My TBR is already unmanageable, what’s one more?
June 23, 2025
When Exes Play Lovers on Screen: Writing the Messy, Tender Heart of Second Takes
What happens when your first love — the one who left you gutted and undone — walks back into your life... as your on-screen love interest?
That was the spark that lit Second Takes, a messy, intimate, and emotionally charged story of two women thrown back together in the spotlight. No hiding. No second guessing. Just cameras rolling and hearts still breaking.
If you love:
Sapphic slow burns with heat and heart
Exes who never really got over each other
Found family (yes, including a surprise baby)
Power dynamics, vulnerability, and emotional payoff
And characters who are impossible together… but maybe even worse apart...
Then Second Takes was written for you.
Tali and Noa are complicated. They're both a little wrong and a little right for each other. They’ve hurt, hidden, and loved hard — and now they have to figure out what to do with all the feelings they thought they’d buried. With a film crew watching.
This isn’t a sequel. This is the story. The one where they might finally get it right.
So tell me — do you believe in second chances?
That was the spark that lit Second Takes, a messy, intimate, and emotionally charged story of two women thrown back together in the spotlight. No hiding. No second guessing. Just cameras rolling and hearts still breaking.
If you love:
Sapphic slow burns with heat and heart
Exes who never really got over each other
Found family (yes, including a surprise baby)
Power dynamics, vulnerability, and emotional payoff
And characters who are impossible together… but maybe even worse apart...
Then Second Takes was written for you.
Tali and Noa are complicated. They're both a little wrong and a little right for each other. They’ve hurt, hidden, and loved hard — and now they have to figure out what to do with all the feelings they thought they’d buried. With a film crew watching.
This isn’t a sequel. This is the story. The one where they might finally get it right.
So tell me — do you believe in second chances?
