As I look ahead to 2026, I’m holding plans gently.
Rather than fixed promises or rigid timelines, I’m following creative threads that have proven meaningful—stories rooted in trust, transformation, and love that grows slowly and sincerely.
Here’s a glimpse of what I’m hoping to explore next.
A New Fantasy Romance Direction
One of the stories calling most strongly is a fantasy romance series inspired by classic fairy tales—including Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and other familiar stories reimagined with warmth, emotional depth, and character-centered romance.
In these, I hope to explore:
- transformation instead of enchantment alone
- courage
- intimacy built through choice
They’re stories about becoming in a world where light and love work together to shape kingdoms. The series will start with a Cinderella-inspired fantasy romance, The Glass Slipper’s Secret, currently building on Royal Road.
A Return to Familiar Hearts
In the fall, I’m planning to return to the world of 26 Reasons to Fall in Love, spending time again with Charles, Daphne, and the quiet, creative romance that grew pie by pie. Their story reminded me how powerful it can be to let love unfold gently, and I feel there’s still more to explore there.
Letting the Romance Deepen in Fantasy
The Dragon and The Ranger began as romantic fantasy, and in 2026 I’m hoping to revise it to lean more fully into romance—deepening emotional arcs, partnership, and the choices that bind two characters together.
An Ongoing Promise
Whatever shape these stories take, my hope for 2026 is simple:
- to write romance that feels warm, earned, and hopeful
- to honor patience over pressure
- and to keep creating stories worth lingering in
Thank you for being here as the next chapter unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these stories be sweet romance?
Yes. Whether contemporary or fantasy, my romances continue to focus on emotional intimacy, slow-burn attraction, and relationships rooted in trust, courage, and care.
Are the fairy tale–inspired stories retellings?
They’re inspired by classic fairy tales rather than strict retellings. Expect familiar emotional themes—transformation, hope, belonging—expressed through original characters and settings in the fantasy world I started with the short story, The First Light of Lumiare.
Do I need to have read previous books first?
No. New projects will be designed to stand alone, while returning characters will always include enough context for new readers to jump in comfortably.
When will these books be released?
Because these are soft goals rather than fixed deadlines, dates will be shared only when stories are ready. The best way to stay updated is through the newsletter.
Will there be more artisan romance?
Yes. Creativity, craft, and quiet connection continue to be central themes—especially when I revisit familiar characters.
If you are interested in reading my work, head to the links in the menu section, or check out The Glass Slipper’s Secret chapters at Royal Road.
Rene (Rose) Hawthorne 