Introduction
Welcome to "Author Spotlight"! Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Nel Bailey, a romance novelist crafting stories of love, self-discovery, and second chances against the dramatic backdrop of Alaska. Based in the picturesque city of Juneau, Nel blends heart, humour, and a generous helping of spice into her writing. While her debut novel, When the Earth Moves (working title), is still on its way to publication, Nel's passion for storytelling and her unique Alaskan perspective promise a captivating reading experience.
From Marine Biology to Romance: Nel Bailey's Unconventional Path to Authorship
Nel Bailey's journey to becoming a romance author has been anything but ordinary. Originally from the Midwest, she's been writing since childhood, and even had a poem published in a middle school anthology. Interestingly, like me, Nel also has a connection to South Africa, having lived there during her middle and high school years! But Alaska has been her home for over 20 years. She initially moved to Southcentral Alaska, near Anchorage, to work as a marine biologist researching Steller Sea Lions after pursuing a degree in environmental conservation. She later moved to Juneau for her husband's job, transitioning into what she calls "corporate America." But the call of storytelling remained strong. After feeling burnt out from her corporate career, Nel decided to return to her writing, rediscovering the joy and fulfillment it brought her.
When the Earth Moves: A Story of Love, Loss, and Second Chances
Nel Bailey's debut novel, When the Earth Moves (working title), is the first book in a planned trilogy, a spicy contemporary romance set against the dramatic and often unpredictable backdrop of Alaska. Inspired by the powerful 7.1 Anchorage earthquake of 2018, the story explores what might happen when two people, carrying the weight of their pasts, are thrown together by a natural disaster.
As Nel puts it in her elevator pitch: "Trapped together in a crumbling building after a devastating Alaskan earthquake, secret crushes Norah and Alex battle for survival while helping each other escape the wreckage of their past."
The novel centers around Norah, who moved to Alaska seeking adventure, and Alex, a colleague who challenges her preconceived notions about love and loyalty. Their connection is undeniable, but circumstances and personal principles keep them apart. When the Earth Moves promises a story of simmering tension, emotional exploration, and the possibility of second chances, all set against the raw power of the Alaskan wilderness. It asks whether a catastrophic event can shake people loose from their pasts and open their hearts to new possibilities.
Life in Alaska: Inspiration and Adventure
More than just a setting, Alaska is woven into the fabric of Nel Bailey's life and writing. The dramatic landscapes of Juneau provide a constant stream of inspiration, finding their way into the heart of her stories. Nel's adventurous spirit thrives in this rugged environment. She's not only a devoted dog-mom to her rescue mastiff, Neva – and previously, to two other rescue mastiffs – but also shares her home with a cat named Biali. Neva is also her companion for camping trips, hikes, and even quiet evenings watching chick-flicks! The raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, captured through her love of photography, undoubtedly fuels her creative process, adding authenticity and depth to the worlds she creates.
What's Next for Nel Bailey
Nel Bailey is currently focused on bringing When the Earth Moves to readers. She is actively pursuing traditional publishing and plans to query literary agents in the near future. While she is committed to finding the right publishing partner, she is also open to considering self-publishing if that path proves to be the best way to share her story with the world. This dedication and flexibility demonstrate her commitment to making her writing dreams a reality.
A Call to Connection
I encourage you to follow Nel Bailey's journey as she brings her Alaskan romances to life. You can connect with her and learn more on her website, Facebook, and Instagram. Keep an eye out for updates on When the Earth Moves and be among the first to know when it's available!
Conclusion
Nel Bailey's path to becoming a published author is a testament to the power of perseverance and following your passions. From her early days writing poetry to her current pursuit of publishing her debut novel, she has remained dedicated to her craft. Her unique blend of Alaskan adventure, heartfelt romance, and personal experience promises to resonate with readers seeking stories of love, loss, and second chances. I, for one, am eagerly anticipating the release of When the Earth Moves and the many stories I'm sure she'll share with the world in the years to come.
Thanks for reading!