Two local authors, Michelle Wallace and Marianne Adams, have found their voices in the world of romance literature. Their novels, A Summer of Secrets and A Lesson in Perfection respectively, offer different takes on the genre, yet share a common thread of authenticity, humour, and heartfelt storytelling. What’s more, their journeys as writers – and as people – are as compelling as the characters they create.
For Michelle, the allure of romance lies in its comforting escapism. “There’s enough going on in the world that it’s nice just to absorb yourself into love and escapism,” she says, reflecting on a lifelong love of chick lit and chick flicks. It was during the quietude of the COVID-19 lockdowns that she first conceived the idea for A Summer of Secrets, a story about Harriet, a fame-seeking socialite hiding from scandal, and Zac, a laid-back surfer from Jersey. Their lives couldn’t be more different, but their shared journey – set against the backdrop of Jersey’s stunning beaches and surf – offers readers a story of love, identity, and second chances.
Marianne’s inspiration came from a different place entirely. With over sixteen years in teaching, she had long found humor in the calamities of school life. “Teaching provides a rich world for comedy and intrigue,” she says, crediting her years in the classroom for sparking the idea behind A Lesson in Perfection. The novel’s protagonist, Samantha Sheffield, is an English teacher navigating the stresses of work, a mysteriously secretive fiancé, and a dangerously charming headteacher. Marianne’s knack for blending humour with heartfelt insight shines throughout, making the book both relatable and deeply entertaining.
While the novels are different in tone and setting, both authors infuse their stories with pieces of their own lives. Michelle grew up in Jersey, and the island’s natural beauty inspired her portrayal of Harriet’s transformative summer. “The beaches, the sea, and the surfing – it’s such a stunning setting that helps figure out what your dreams are,” she says. For Marianne, it was the reality of teaching that informed Samantha’s struggles. “Teachers are real people with complex lives – not just robots that power down in the book cupboard at the end of each day,” she quips, aiming to shine a light on both the challenges and joys of her profession.
The process of bringing these novels to life was as varied as their inspirations. Michelle’s journey was marked by intense focus, taking a month off work to write the entire narrative in St Peter’s Garden Centre. A few years later, she came back to the manuscript for a rigorous editing procedure, carving out time between teaching full-time and raising four children. “I’m a big fan of getting up at five in the morning,” she says with a laugh, acknowledging the difficulties of balancing creative passion with daily responsibilities. Marianne’s approach, on the other hand, was more meandering. “It took over five years, with lots of notepads filled with ideas and chapter sketches,” she admits. But once she left her role as Head of English at Victoria College, she found the clarity and time to finish the story that had been bubbling in her mind for years.
What makes these stories resonate so deeply are the relatable characters and the universal themes they explore. In A Summer of Secrets, Harriet’s journey is one of self-discovery and courage – a message that Michelle hopes will inspire readers to pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting. Marianne’s Samantha, meanwhile, learns the hard way that perfection is often an illusion. “Sam loses some of herself chasing it,” Marianne reflects, “but she learns to trust her instincts when that perfect veneer starts to crack.”
As much as they relish the process of storytelling, both authors have their favourite moments. For Michelle, it’s the pivotal dance floor kiss between Harriet and Zac, and a later scene where Harriet boldly reclaims her narrative during a high-stakes television interview. “I loved writing those scenes,” she says, her enthusiasm palpable. Marianne, too, lights up when talking about her work, particularly a playful scene where Samantha tastes wedding favours. “I had so much fun writing the flirting in that moment,” she admits, clearly delighted by the chemistry between her characters.
Of course, the road to publication hasn’t been without its challenges. Michelle cites time as her biggest hurdle, but the rewards of seeing readers connect with her book make the sacrifices worthwhile. “It gives me a buzz,” she says, describing the thrill of receiving reviews or meeting readers who’ve enjoyed her work. Marianne shares this sentiment but confesses that the marketing side of publishing doesn’t come naturally to her. “Publishing is exposing,” she says, “but it’s amazing to see people connect with the book.”
Looking ahead, both authors are excited about what’s next. Michelle is torn between two potential sequels for A Summer of Secrets: one exploring Harriet’s Aunt Verity and her lost love, and another delving into the life of Alice, Harriet’s close friend. Marianne, meanwhile, has already mapped out two more books in her series, promising new characters, career shake-ups, and even a holiday in Jersey for Samantha and her best friend, Alex.
In their own ways, Michelle Wallace and Marianne Adams demonstrate the power of storytelling rooted in authenticity, humour, and a love for their craft. Their novels – one a tale of redemption and romance on the shores of Jersey, the other a hilarious, heartfelt exploration of love and life in the classroom – offer readers a delightful escape. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of an island romance or the hilarity of schoolroom calamities, these two authors provide what you’re looking for.
