Love Harlequin Movies? You’ll Love Jennifer Vido’s Romances
Today, Jennifer Vido shares her sweet Low Country Romances and tell us about her writing life.
Welcome Jennifer,
Will you have a new book coming out soon? Do you know the release date?
Yes! I’m currently in the editing process for Simplicity by the Sea, the third and final book in my Gull Island series. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with Serendipity by the Sea if you enjoy series with recurring characters and a close-knit coastal community.
The book will be released in late summer or early fall, though I don’t have an exact publication date yet. This story follows a high-powered marketing executive who returns to her hometown of Gull Island, South Carolina, for a friend’s wedding—only to find unexpected love and a fresh perspective on life. She becomes entangled with a charming single father and his delightful daughter, leading to a heartfelt friends-to-lovers romance.
What I love most about this book is that it’s my first time writing a single-parent romance. Exploring the dynamic between the hero, his daughter, and the heroine was such a joy, and I can’t wait for readers to experience their journey.
How did you come up with the title?
I put a lot of thought into my book titles because I wanted them to instantly connect with readers and reflect the heart of my stories. The Gull Island series is inspired by Fripp Island, South Carolina—a beautiful coastal community full of Southern charm—and while each book is a standalone, they all share recurring characters and that same cozy, small-town feel.
I knew I wanted the titles to have a rhythm, making it easy for readers to recognize they were part of the same world. That’s how I landed on Serendipity by the Sea, Serenity by the Sea, and Simplicity by the Sea. Each title reflects the core theme of the love story inside—Serendipity is a second-chance romance, Serenity is an enemies-to-lovers journey, and Simplicity is a heartwarming friends-to-lovers tale.
If you love Hallmark movies, these books are for you! They’re sweet, feel-good romances with likable characters, charming coastal settings, and happily ever afters that will leave you smiling.
Can you tell us about any other upcoming books, series, or writing plans?
I’m currently working on a Christmas romance with a fun twist! The story is set in Nashville, Tennessee, which holds a special place in my heart. I had the incredible experience of attending Vanderbilt University, right in the heart of Music City, and some of my fondest memories come from that time. Writing a romance set in Nashville feels like a love letter to those years and my deep appreciation for the South.
This story blends holiday magic, romance, and the charm of a snowy Nashville backdrop. I can’t wait to share it with readers—it’s full of heart, unexpected moments, and, of course, a happily ever after. Stay tuned for more details!
What do you do when you are not writing?
I wear a few hats in my daily life! When I’m not typing away on my latest project, I’m the executive director of a legal nonprofit in my community that provides free legal services to those who need representation the most. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding work.
I also write a weekly column called Jen’s Jewels for FreshFiction.com. I interview New York Times bestselling authors and rising stars, diving into the inspiration behind their books. Connecting with other writers and sharing their stories with readers is a joy.
On top of that, I teach a warm water exercise class for people with arthritis—something that’s especially close to my heart. I was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of eight, so I know firsthand how tough it can be to manage daily aches and pains. Exercise has been a game-changer for me, and I love helping others find ways to move and feel better. Arthritis is the #1 cause of disability in the U.S., so raising awareness and staying active is important to me. Plus, it’s a great way to stay moving while connecting with an amazing group of people!
Where is your favorite place to write?
My favorite place to write is in my living room, curled up with my rescue dog, Fripp—yes, he’s named after Fripp Island! What can I say? I love the place. There’s something comforting about having him by my side as I dive into my stories each night.
I always write with music playing—it helps set the mood and inspires me. My go-to artists are Kelsea Ballerini, Taylor Swift, and Brandon Lake, though my playlist shifts depending on the story I’m working on. Writing at night has become a ritual for me. When I sit down, the rest of the world quiets and the words start to flow.
It’s my favorite part of the day because I create a world filled with unforgettable characters and beautiful places—places I’d love to visit. Writing isn’t just something I do; it’s who I am, and I truly love every moment of it.
Serenity by the Sea (Gull Island series: Book 2)
Celebrity designer Hailey Maybank escapes to Gull Island to reinvent herself after a high-profile divorce, lending her expertise on a renovation project. Working with the boss’s son comes with complications, but will she risk her professional reputation for a chance at love?
Will Purdey vies for a partnership in the family business by showcasing his design skills on the firm’s latest project. Partnering with a famous designer who has a tarnished reputation can ruin his plans, but will his growing attraction for the colorful artist allow him to complete the job?
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Meet Jennifer Vido
Jennifer Vido writes sweet romances set in the Lowcountry, earning acclaim as the award-winning author of the Gull Island series. Her debut romance novel, Serendipity by the Sea, secured the prestigious Best First Book award from the New Jersey Romance Writers Golden Leaf Contest. In 2024, Vido’s talent garnered further accolades, with Baltimore Magazine readers naming her Best Local Author in their annual Best of Baltimore poll, while the Baltimore Sun acknowledged her with an Honorable Mention in their Best of 2024 Author category. When not writing fiction, she interviews authors for her weekly Jen’s Jewels column on FreshFiction.com, leads water exercise classes, and directs a legal nonprofit. Currently residing in Maryland, she and her husband are proud parents to two grown sons and a rescue dog named Fripp.
