She’s been called “the Michelangelo of dirty talk” by Entertainment Weekly, writing with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Bestselling author Tessa Bailey has certainly found her place in the crowded and ever-so-popular romance genre.
Bailey says she can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses her writing efforts on stubborn, fictional blue-collar men and loyal, lovable heroines.
Her latest book, a rom-com that launched this week to coincide with Valentine’s Day, is Fangirl Down (Avon), a sports/workplace romance between a grouchy, down-and-out professional golfer Wells Whitaker and his optimistic, number one fan Josephine Doyle. The golfer finds out Josephine’s in dire financial straits and hires her to be his caddie on the PGA Tour.
As they travel together, spending days on the green and nights in neighboring hotel rooms, sparks fly. Before long, they’re inseparable, Wells starts winning again, and Josephine is surprised to find a sweet, thoughtful guy underneath his gruff, growly exterior. This hot man wants to brush her hair, feed her snacks, and take bubble baths together? Is this real life? But Wells is technically her boss and an athlete falling for his fangirl would be ridiculous… right?
“Since I can remember,” says Bailey, “the only thing that ever interested me in movies, television and books was the romantic subplot. Love is what makes me feel hopeful and empathetic and safe.”
“Romance novels are best friends that never let you down, even if they put you through a little stress here and there.”
Actually, that’s the formula, isn’t it?
While many fans obsess over anxiously awaiting Bailey’s next novel, the author has a favorite of her own: “My favorite all-time romance books were written by Julie Garwood —The Prize is my favorite, and it influenced me greatly. I loved the way she wrote courageous, loyal heroines and strong silent type heroes that would basically die for their wife.”
Bailey has an interesting take on her work routine. “I love working from home and I hate working from home. Makes sense, right? Haha.”
“It’s great that all I have to do is walk downstairs, go barefoot and keep my own schedule. But I definitely miss the comedy that can be inspired by the workplace setting and meeting new people.”
While love on Valentine’s Day typically focuses on relationships, Bailey understands the importance of self-love and self-care. “My favorite self-care ritual is waking up before the rest of my house is buzzing and having a cup of coffee in the dark, quiet living room. Baths. Running. Pedicures. Ordering take-out. Also, I love to browse fancy AirBnBs in foreign locations and dream about going on the ultimate vacation.”
For the ultimate Valentine’s Day treat, pick up a copy of Fangirl Down, and visit www.tessabailey.com.
About Tessa Bailey:
New York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out her website for a complete list of books.
