The romance genre is booming, and for one New Zealand author, it’s not just a creative outlet – it’s a viable off-grid lifestyle. Steffanie Holmes, a former archaeologist, is now a USA Today bestselling author who supports herself by writing three to four paranormal romance novels each year from her solar-and-battery-powered home in the Kaipara Harbour.
Holmes’ journey to full-time writing began in 2015 when she decided to pursue her passion for paranormal romance. Nine years later, she boasts over 55 published books and a dedicated international readership. Her success story, detailed in a recent interview, highlights the growing accessibility of self-publishing and the financial potential within the romance market.
The shift towards self-publishing has been a game-changer for authors like Holmes. She shares tips and insights on her website, Rage Against The Manuscript, helping others navigate the complexities of the industry. This direct-to-reader model allows authors to retain greater control over their work and royalties, bypassing traditional publishing gatekeepers.
Holmes deliberately set her early novels in the US and UK, recognizing the larger romance readership in those markets. However, she notes a rapidly growing interest in romance novels within New Zealand itself. “I’m seeing so many romanticky books in the bookstores, and people are so excited about the authors in my genre coming over on book tours, and there are lots of pretty books everywhere,” she observed.
Beyond the business of writing, Holmes brings a unique perspective to the genre, shaped by her personal experiences. She is legally blind, a challenge she has overcome to build a successful career. Her novels also reflect a conscious effort to move away from tropes that pit women against each other, instead focusing on “really beautiful female friendships.”
Holmes’ life extends beyond the page. She occasionally officiates weddings, offering a glimpse into the real-life romantic connections that inspire her work. She even playfully commented on the surprising song choices of some couples, noting that “‘November Rain’ is such a classic, but it’s not really a love song.”
The success of authors like Holmes comes at a time when the romance genre is experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly among Gen Z readers. A recent report indicates that New Zealand authors are capitalizing on this trend, with increased demand for “smut,” as the report terms it, driving sales and opportunities.
Holmes’ ability to combine a self-sufficient, off-grid lifestyle with a thriving writing career offers a compelling example of how authors can leverage the changing landscape of the publishing industry. Her story underscores the increasing viability of self-publishing and the growing global appetite for romance novels, proving that This proves, “a better time to be a writer.”
The interview, conducted on , was featured on Saturday Morning, a program available on RNZ Podcasts via YouTube. The program provides a platform for authors to share their experiences and insights with a wider audience.
