Jennifer Probst's Blog, page 2

I knew everything would change when you went to kindergarten. For the first time, I was out of control. You climbed on the big yellow bus with your serious expression and your Spongebob backpack and sat in the front seat. After you pulled away, I collapsed on the road and cried, then jumped in my car to follow you to the school so I knew you were safe.

When I drove you to middle school, I noticed your nervousness before you got out of the car. I said,  “You got this.” You nodded and repeated back, “I got this.” I watched you walk into the school where you glanced back once before disappearing through the doors. I cried the whole drive home.

When I dropped you off at high school, you never looked back to wave goodbye. I drove away with a lump in my throat and knew it was my final chapter of something special.

I stood by as you were tested with your first real heartbreak—a medical diagnosis that would change all of our lives forever. I had to accept a disease with no cure and that you’d lose most of your sight. I had to deal with the fact you would never have a “normal” life, but you were never normal to begin with. You handled the fallout with grace and faith, and not only accepted it but thrived. Others try to think outside the box. You are forced to do it every day, yet you never questioned God’s path.

I watched you go to spring and fall dances, junior and senior prom, and endless athletic races and win dozens of medals for your accomplishments in school. I watched you graduate with high honors. You studied and worked hard, but it was your heart that gives me the most pride—that big, kind, beautiful heart that will always guide you, even when I’m no longer here.

Every step has brought you right here.

Stepping away from me. Moving out and into the dorm.

College is your next chapter, my love. But I’ll be on the other side of the phone, down the road, praying and watching from afar as you step into your future. I’ll cry and mourn, but it’s for me, not you. All of your growth and actions to this day have reminded me of some crucial things.

I was reminded that you aren’t me…and your experiences are unique. I was reminded even though I carried you and birthed you and took care of you…you are not mine to have forever. I was reminded that my job is to let you go…and let you struggle…let you experience pain, beauty, loss, happiness…on your own terms.

To my son, and all the others who step away from their parents, we love you.

You got this.

I’ve been writing since I was twelve years old. And now I’m the author of over 50 books, multiple bestsellers, with over 2 million worldwide sold.

But I’ve never done this before.

Written an entire book chapter by chapter…live.

In the writing world, authors are labeled plotters or pantsers. I couldn’t plot myself out of any situation, so I’m in the latter group. I term myself an organic writer. Which means I show up at the page with a very faint idea of where the story is going, but am totally open to see which way my characters want to go.

This could be a good thing or bad thing. Those hidden roads are sometimes the best surprises. It also has taught me to trust my Muse and subconscious, where the greatest of my creativity lurks. But occasionally, I write myself into a dead end or corner and need to get out of it. Perhaps, the excitement and adventure of chasing the story is part of why I never intend to retire!

What readers do not see is the work behind the finished story. I work with a very detailed, very hard nosed, very talented developmental editor. I work with cover designers, proofreaders, publicity departments, and blurb writers, even when I’m self-publishing a book. It’s a team effort.

But I wanted to try something different. Reader apps have become big, and as the industry changes, I refuse to be left behind. I was excited to bring my loyal readers something fresh, and court all the new readers in the world who hadn’t read me yet.

So, I decided to write an ongoing serial story for Kindle Vella. What’s Vella?

It’s just a story told in chapters. Very simple. Every Sunday and Wednesday I drop a new chapter of the book and continue until the book is done. Whenever it’s done.

I have a fierce love for Bravo reality television, and have been obsessed with Vanderpump Rules from the first episode. I love the angst, and glamour and watching a close crowd of friends grow up together, make mistakes, fight, make-up, fall in love, and hurt one another. Then forgive.

I’m also a classic Dawson’s Creek fan *Team Pacey all the way!*

My newest discovery binge I’m obsessed with is Tell Me Lies on Hulu. It’s about a college student who falls for a bad boy and the rocky journey she goes on. I loved the book by Carola Lovering and it’s a fabulous read.

These type of stories remind me of being fully alive, with new life experiences, love, friendship and career exploding around you. And I wanted to write one. I also love to use music and pair each chapter with certain songs. The theme song is Cruel Summer by Taylor Swift so if you love that song, definitely give this a try.

Yearn is fan fiction, loosely based on Vanderpump Rules with my own unique voice and writing style.

But what is truly different is the format.

Every week, as you read each chapter, it’s being given to you RAW. No developmental editor. No major content changes. I’m writing as I go, letting the characters speak to me, and taking reader engagement.

What character do you want to hear from next? What would you like to see happen? What do you hate and love about the story?

Comments are encouraged. Likes are appreciated. Favoriting my story is EVERYTHING. The more people see my story, the better the ranking, and the more I can write for you.

This is an ongoing saga that’s bingeworthy and super sexy and I hope you come along for the ride.

If you’ve never tried Vella, just hop on Amazon, go to Kindle Vella, and read YEARN. You automatically get over 200 free coins so you can read a bunch of chapters for free and see if you like it. And then interact with me along the way.

It’s scary for me. It’s different.

But the best things in life often are, right?

Click here and read the first 17 chapters NOW!

https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/story/B0C8WKT3SF

I have big news, my lovelies.

I’m planning an epic trip to Italy in 2024 and I want to invite YOU to join me!

I’ve dreamed of creating a special trip with my readers and/or fellow authors to experience the magical setting of Italy. It’s been the place I’ve written about in so many books, and the main feature in my previous two books: Our Italian Summer and The Secret Love Letters of Oliva Moretti.

Next year, I’ll be releasing my third Italy book entitled: A Wedding in Lake Como. To celebrate, I paired up with Trovatrip to offer the most comprehensive, custom tour that will offer myself and readers not only an Italian adventure, but in a way that takes away all the stress!

The details will be finalized once I receive the below survey from all of you. I need a minimum of fifty filled out before I can officially offer the trip, so please take a few minutes to complete the survey, making sure you check ITALY as the destination.

Filling out the survey does not confirm any type of reservation! It is only an initial interest survey!

Once I receive enough responses, I’ll gather up the details of an itinerary, dates, and prices, then send them to you. I’ll also post to my social media sites so no one misses out on the opportunity.

Are you ready to visit all the magical places I’ve written about with me?

Then click the link and LET’S GO!

https://my.trovatrip.com/public/l/survey/jennifer-probst

There’s only 48 hours left before my Kickstarter disappears.

48 hours left before the large print hard cover editions, trade paperbacks, and special edition signed ebooks are gone.

48 hours left to get a customized necklace, tote bags, swag, VIP calls, book art, and personal thank yous.

But I have one last surprise for all of you before it’s gone.

Back in these final hours at the $25 level and up, and I’ll send you a signed exclusive postcard as a special thank you!

Aren’t they pretty?

This is the perfect time to upgrade your pledge to grab a paperback, hard cover, bonus scenes and the postcard.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jenniferprobst/unbreakmyheart

A big thank you to everyone who backed and shared for this special project!

I have so much more to come this year…I can’t wait to share.

Boy, do I love my heroes.

I love talking about them, dreaming about them, and creating them. Most of my readers jump right into my alpha men and dish the dirty, but lately I’ve been thinking about my leading ladies and figured it was time to talk WOMEN.

Throw in a hot domineering bullheaded man and you’ve got interest, but if he hasn’t met his match, you’ve got…disappointment.

I’ve read a few books where I drooled over the hero but once he met the heroine my reader gene just didn’t buy it. Either she was too soft and needy, too bitchy, or too distant. Creating the perfect balance to set off sparks between them and have a reader rooting for a happy ever after is a delicate dance.

With Unbreak my Heart, Gavin has screwed up. Big time. He pretty much ripped out the heart of his old lover, left, and now he’s returned to make things right. My challenge was in creating a woman who would give him a hard time and make him pay, but then allow herself to revisit old feelings and give him another chance. This has to happen slowly or the payoff will be flat, and readers will be screaming she’s an idiot.

Not good.

So, with my heroine Miranda Storme, I sketched out a fiery red-headed, celebrity food critic who’s moved on. But she has deep lingering feelings, issues galore (I like my heroines screwed up too!), and a big trust issue to overcome. Oh, and of course she’s hot for him and sparks fly off the page when they’re near each other. Miranda is a woman we can relate to—she’s real and flawed and a mess, but damn she’s determined to forge through. I like that type of heroine on the page and in life.

And Gavin needs it. No one else can possibly be his match. Here’s a quick peek of some of their banter:

“You’re too late,” she said.

“I don’t believe that.”

He stepped in front of her and laid both palms flat against the wood, trapping her head in between them. She let out a soft whoosh as the air left her body—faced with his full power. His warm breath struck her lips, a delicious mixture of whiskey and mint.

Miranda realized he was still in control.

The gleam in his eyes reflected a knowledge he affected her in the most primitive way possible and intended to use it to his advantage. The spicy scent of him teased her senses. She decided the best way to play the scene was flippant. “Seems we’ve been here before, huh? Me, Tarzan. You, Jane. Simply charming.”

His lower lips quirked. “You always were a hellcat, Red. Our battles were legendary, but the making up kept us both coming back for more. If you remember.”

She smiled sweetly. “I don’t. And I wouldn’t do a second review if you offered me a million dollars. I wouldn’t do a second review if I was sick, and dying, and you were the only man to help me. If you were the last man on Earth standing between me and a nuclear bomb blast I wouldn’t—”

“I get the message. You won’t do the review. Fine, I’ll change your mind later.” He ignored her outraged squeak and continued. “Time to take the first step, sweetheart. I’m going to prove your body hasn’t forgotten me, even if you want to deny your feelings.”

Her heart thundered and skipped like Derby day. “Arrogant, aren’t we? You were good, but not good enough to span three years. I’ve had better.” Did her nose grow longer from her lie?

He lifted her chin up, forcing her to face him. Grim resolution shot from blue-gray depths. His body heat was almost tangible, tempting her to surrender and reach out to touch him. “Ouch. That’s gonna make me up my game. But I want more than your body. There’s been an empty ache in my gut from the day I walked away from you. I searched Godforsaken places to fill it and I never got close. Until now. I want another chance, Miranda. I want to know how you changed and who you are. I have eight weeks to prove myself again and I’m not wasting another second.”

Creating the perfect foil for your hero is just as much fun as creating those hot men we love. After all…a man is only as good as the woman behind him. Or…something like that!

What type of heroines do you love to read about? What’s your favorite match for a hero? Drop me a comment and share with me!

And don’t forget to click on my Kickstarter link to get your books and swag and bonuses before it ends  – ONLY FIVE MORE DAYS!

If we get 125 backers (3 more to go!) or reach 5K, I’ll release another special Stretch reward so please back and share!

I created special hard covers with large print for a limited time. This includes personal signature, bonus scenes, and a VIP call with me. Isn’t the cover beautiful?

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jenniferprobst/unbreakmyheart

And while you’re there – I’ve rounded up some of the top Kickstarter romance projects you don’t want to miss! Click here to see them ALL and have fun shopping!

Kickstarter is for lovers (bookfunnel.com)

I have written two books in my Meet Me In Italy series, Our Italian Summer and The Secret Love Letters of Olivia Moretti.

I have my newest release coming next year called, A Wedding in Lake Como.

And Unbreak my Heart is full of Italian flavor – from the family to the restaurant.

Why do I write Italian?

I remember when I was an English Literature student and read a wonderful short story by Helen Barolini, “How I Learned to Speak Italian.” We discussed it at length, spoke about the way it was written, the prose, and the way the narrator vividly portrayed the desire and love of the language, and how Italian connected his way to the ones he loved.

I come from an Italian family. My great grandmother was from Naples. My grandmother lived with us for a short period of time. We’d sit at the small kitchen table, sipping coffee and nibbling on sweets, chatting about our day. I was excited about learning her culture and the language, and we’d have sessions where I’d ask about certain words, and she’d write down the translation. Every word was magical when spoken in Italian.  She asked me to do two things for her when I grew up: learn to speak Italian and visit Italy one day. I promised her I would.

I’d watch her cook fresh escarole and beans, delicious hearty soups like pasta fagioli, simmering pots of fresh gravy with hefty neckbones and homemade meatballs simmering over the flames. She wore a well used, freshly laundered apron with pockets, and wielded wooden spoons like a pro, while she danced around the kitchen in a well rehearsed waltz of grace and beauty.

I grew up to be a lot NOT like her. I’m not a great cook, and prefer the simple way rather than the homemade way. I took five years of Italian in college and hardly learned a thing. I travelled to Italy on a whirlwind tour, and my feet stood on the humbled ground of Napoli, and I looked at the sprawling landscape and thought of my grandmother. But in many ways, I feel like I failed. I’m not adept at the language, and only spent a brief hour in her homeland, not enough to stroll the streets and eat the food and steep myself in the culture.

But I write Italian. I love creating an old fashioned Italian family, and bringing in aspects of my childhood, twisting fiction with reality in a way that becomes seamless and real. In Unbreak my Heart, I crafted an Italian restaurant in Manhattan as my center, revolving around good food, great drama, music, language, and the core of it all: love. My Italian papa speaks in Sinatra-isms, my cook bends to his emotional landscape when it comes to seasoning his food, and my hero needs to reign it all in and somehow save the family business on the verge of bankruptcy. It is a rich world, full of flavor and texture and emotion, and I am more comfortable here, as if I’ve always lived this life.

And I have. Through my grandmother, through stories of Italy and family. Through my heritage.

I hope my readers get a hint of this flavor in all my books. A good laugh. A longing for hearty food. A fluttering of the heart from pure emotion.

That’s why I love to write Italian.

And that’s why I’m doing my very special Kickstarter for Unbreak my Heart!

I wanted to create a custom art scene from the book, and was humbled to work with an artist from Ukraine. During one of our chat updates, he let me know he may be a bit late delivering because the city he was in was currently being bombed, and he wouldn’t have internet for a while.

I was completely shocked. Everything after that conversation had new meaning. Not only did he create something memorable and beautiful for me and my readers to enjoy, he did it with pride, and on deadline.

I approached every day with a new mindset after that, and think of him often.

It’s only available for purchase until February 10th at the Kickstarter.

Here’s the link:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jenniferprobst/unbreakmyheart

I also announced a huge stretch goal today – here’s a peek at the update I just shared with all my backers:

Receive a FREE sticker!

Aren’t these beautiful?

**I love a little spice, don’t you?**

Use them for your water bottles, your planners, your totes—anything goes! Shipping included, USA only for this reward. It’s a great time to upgrade and grab the paperback with bonus scenes! Or go for the hard cover and enjoy a special VIP Zoom call where we can really chat one on one.

If you love my Italy books and Italy themed swag, there’s a place to order a very special book box, too!

Thank you so much for helping me with this special project – please share or consider backing.

It’s launch day for my Kickstarter!

Even better?

It’s cover reveal day!

I’m so excited to finally share the gorgeous re-launched art I’ve been dying to show you.

Ten years is a long time. We all need a little…makeover. Unbreak my Heart is now ready to be revealed in all its glory, for digital, and print.

Just click on this link to see:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jenniferprobst/unbreakmyheart

Aren’t they beautiful?

Remember, I’m offering hardcover LARGE print copies only available in this Kickstarter! After thirty days, they will not be an option so grab this opportunity now. And of course, they all come personally SIGNED!

Did you see all the other amazing bonuses available in my tiers? You can even create your very own package by using the add-ons. Grab my Meet me in Italy book boxes, get your name printed in my book, hop on a Zoom call for me, or buy some gorgeous jewelry only available in this campaign. I’m here if you have any questions or fears about using Kickstarter for the first time. It’s free and easy to use.

For the next thirty days, I’ll be sending you never been seen items in my book world I know you will love.

Let’s start with our very first perk – THE EARLY BIRD SPECIAL!

If you back my Kickstarter within the next three days at the twenty-five, thirty-five, or fifty tier, you will automatically receive an audiobook commentary by me!

I have never offered one of these before. This is a digital file of me going through chapter by chapter of Unbreak my Heart and offering my own thoughts, behind-the-scenes outtakes, and comments of the story. You will learn things no one else will, and it’s like having me as your own personal reader! Grab this while it lasts because it’s no longer available after the early bird tier expires!

If I don’t reach my funding goal, none of this happens, so I’m also asking if you can share with your friends; on your social media; anywhere to spread the word. Thank you for your endless support.

Happy Kickstarting, my loves!

Hello, my lovelies! I’ve missed writing for my blog and in the new year, I’d like to be in better communication with everyone and share more stuff. Work stuff, personal stuff, and fun stuff.

I’ve got a lot of new things coming out this year I’ve never done before, so it will be a learning curve for all of us hahah!!

First, though, I wanted to tell you about the biggest news in January, which is the official anniversary celebration of my fan favorite book, Unbreak my Heart (previously titled All the Way). This is my second chance, sexy, foodie romance about a food critic and restaurant owner. I have the opportunity for the first time to launch a huge event and offer the book in a whole new way.

How so, you ask?

Through

It’s a platform where artists and creators can offer special projects to fans they’ve not been able to do before. It’s simple to navigate and fun to do. I know many people don’t like to try new things, but this is a way I can really spoil readers with items and experiences I can’t offer anywhere else.

Like what?

Brand new covers for digital, print, AND an exclusive one time only HARDBACK. Signed, of course.

Bonus scenes never written before!

A gorgeous custom digital art work created from a specific scene in the book.

VIP Zoom calls with me.

Various book boxes with special swag like gorgeous custom necklaces!

There’s so much more!

Click on this link to get a special preview just for you – you will be able to see ALL the items I’m offering!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jenniferprobst/unbreakmyheart?ref=awdb1w&token=227abb2b

First, hit the button that says: Let’s see the preview!

 Then, on the top left is a button that says: Notify Me On Launch.

PLEASE CLICK ON THAT.  This way, you will be automatically notified when it goes Live and be following my campaign.

That’s it! You’ll want to sign up for a FREE account so you are all set for launch in January.

I’d LOVE to know your thoughts on Kickstarter, or any questions you have. Poke around, follow the campaign, read the tiers and watch my video, then share.

I promise it’s an easy platform to navigate, and so much fun to be in.

We are in this together. Let’s make 2024 the most epic year for books ever!

Have more questions? Start here for some basic information on Kickstarter:

https://help.kickstarter.com/hc/en-us/articles/115005028514-What-are-the-basics-

I’m wishing everyone a wonderful, safe, healthy, and happy holiday!

It’s been ages since I’ve taken the time to write a blog post.

And if asked why, I can give a plethora of excuses which is always led by lack of time, but maybe it’s as simple as: I didn’t have anything to say. Words are strange things—I live my life by them and they construct the foundation of a passion and career, but many times, the silence is more powerful. The times I can sit by myself and take a step back.

I took some classes with a writing coach, Becca Syme, who teaches Write Better Faster courses, and after digging into my personality, I found intellection was number three in my top ten list of traits. I knew achiever, positivity, and empathy were up there. Even relator, since I have always been one to treasure close relationships in smaller groups rather than giant crowds of too many.

But intellection was interesting. It basically means I need to step back and process. Give time to percolate stories. I never realized I was that type of writer because my entire life, the ideas spilled over, consistently bubbling up and demanding I write them. I have been writing nonstop since I was twelve years old, whether I was published or not. Ten years ago, I began a serious deep dive and completed about five books per year for almost a decade.

That’s a lot of writing and a lot of productivity. Didn’t think much about intellection since being on such a demanding schedule kept my nose to the literal grindstone.

Until…lately. The past two years have been an exploration of change. I need longer now to process. I need to slow down and delve deeper with my books. My Muse is no longer happy with me cracking the whip and I can no longer produce on demand.

This is both terrifying and elative. The idea of being able to stop and linger fills me with wonder. This process is like discovering a new aspect of myself, learning to be okay with it while my achiever goes into full panic mode. I have to trust more. Extend deadlines. My drafts are messier and circle around in strange ways, when I’d always been a linear writer. I experience burn out easier, as if my brain is overloaded more often and I need to shut down. Simplify.

I love using social media for positivity, for help, for inspiration, for humor. But over the past year, I stopped updating my personal Facebook page. Each time I poised at the keys, I thought of a million things to write and never wanted to share a word. I was listening, an observer of the world, enjoying other posts but not ready to share anything from my heart.

Why? I’m not sure. There’s been some deeper challenges I’ve needed to work out with my vision, my Self, my spirit. I’ve experimented a bit with sharing writing advice or inspiration that moves me. I find my purpose is clearer when I give back to community, even if I’m promoting my books because I believe in them and my ability to entertain, make people laugh, and feel good.

That’s it, my peeps. My mish mash of thoughts put into a blog because I wanted to touch base with all of you and make a connection. To maybe help someone feel not so alone. Let you know I’m here, showing up, trying to find joy and gratitude in the day to day.

I truly hope you are all having a wonderful summer.

I’m excited to share I’ll be doing a Virtual Signing for the release of THE SECRET LOVE LETTERS OF OLIVIA MORETTI in February.

All you have to do is buy a book through Oblong Books’ website using this link:

Preorder a personalized copy of THE SECRET LOVE LETTERS OF OLIVIA MORETTI

Books will be shipped out to arrive within a week after the book’s February 22nd release date.

Please see below for more details before placing your order.

What is a Virtual Signing?

A virtual signing is a way to get a personalized signed copy of a book when you are unable to attend an in-store book signing.  You will order the book through Oblong Books’s website, indicate who you would like the book signed to, and the store will get it signed and shipped out to you shortly after the book’s release date.

Will I get my copy of THE SECRET LOVE LETTERS OF OLIVIA MORETTI the same day it is released?

No, your book will be shipped to you to arrive within a week following the book’s February 22nd  release date.

Will Jennifer write a personalized message besides just my name (or a name I designate)?

Jennifer will write your name or whoever you want the book inscribed to and her signature. No additional personalization requests, beyond a name, are permitted.

** Please note that personalization is at Jennifer’s discretion.**

May I order more than one book and have each signed to a different person?

Yes!

I forgot to include my personalization request…what happens now?

Please contact Oblong Books and they will be able to add it to your order.  If you don’t contact Oblong Books then your book will be signed by Jennifer, but it will have no name inscribed.

Do you have an order or purchasing question that isn’t answered here?

Please contact Oblong Books! You can reach the store by email at  [email protected].