Secret, secret - who's got a secret?

If you've read my other books, you know that at the heart of each story, there's at least one secret that ties the story and its characters together.

Typically, only one person knows, but when there are multiple secrets, well, that's when things start to get really interesting. I'm usually writing about family secrets, which means lots of family drama.

This month's e-news is about the sub-genre, Domestic Drama, aka Domestic Fiction or Dramatic Fiction. Buckle up, it's going to be a bumpy ride! Oh, be sure to read to the end, there's a secret waiting for you.

I'm so glad you're here.

June 2026

Book Smart Dramatic fiction is a big umbrella covering many stories that begin with an intense conflict, moral or emotional, that eventually drives the story to its conclusion. In domestic dramas, the moral and emotional conflicts play out within the more intimate setting of a family home or similarly insular world. For me, there are three tenets I focus on to captivate the reader. Read more

Author! Author! Family drama, especially when it’s not happening to me, is always fascinating. Here are some thoughts on why it's so riveting and six books that will keep you up all night turning pages. Read more

Light Bulb What makes the light bulb go off for a writer, or for anyone who's looking for inspiration? Sometimes, it's a flashlight, sometimes it's a floodlight, and sometimes it's completely unexpected. Read more

London Calling I love London. I was so delighted to be there in May for a reading from and discussion about Should Have Told You Sooner. Come stroll with me through some of London's secret places. Photo Gallery

Baker Street Baking is one of my superpowers. If you check out my Facebook, Instagram, or Threads you will see some of what's cooking in my kitchen, and sometimes in my novels. Check out this summer sweet thing: Vanilla Bean Peach Crisp. It's good in winter, too! Recipe

If you've read this far, here's the secret I promised in my intro: two lucky readers will get a link to download a free audiobook from Lantern Audiobook Store.

All you have to do is send an email to me at jane@janeaward.com between the day you receive this e-news and 11:59 p.m. ET on July 4, with "Happy Fourth, Jane! Free Audiobook" in the subject line.

The individuals sending the fourth and eighth emails with the correct subject line (no quotes needed) will get the link with a one-time special code to download the free audiobook of your choice. Complete instructions for downloading and playing the audiobook will be in the email. Recipients will receive their link no later than 11:59 p.m., Friday, July 10.

Happy Fourth of July, everyone! Enjoy your holiday weekend.

That's it for this edition. See you in a few weeks. I'm so glad you're here.

P.S. - If you liked this newsletter, please share with others who might enjoy it, too.