"Do what you love and success will follow. Passion is the fuel behind a successful career." Meg Whitman
Meet Nikki Duncan, Author of Small-Town Romance and Second Chance Love
Looking for emotional healing romance with strong female leads and second chance love stories? Nikki Duncan writes small-town romance novels and romantic women’s fiction about healing that go deeper than the surface. Her books explore the kind of love that repairs what’s broken, fuels self-discovery, and lingers long after the last page.
Nikki’s journey started in secret, writing her first story while devouring Harlequins. That quiet beginning led to a career of more than twenty novels and a fan-favorite debut, Sounds to Die By. The book began as a challenge to create a blind hero without drowning him in angst. It became a contemporary romance series readers still return to.
Over the years, Nikki’s work has appeared alongside romance icons like Shayla Black, Jaci Burton, Sylvia Day, and Cathryn Fox. Her stories blend emotion, resilience, and unexpected twists. Whether it’s laughter or heartbreak, Nikki’s characters push through life’s messes and find connection on the other side.
Off the page, she’s touched nearly every part of the book world. She’s designed covers, built websites, written for romance magazines, and hosted reader parties. One even featured a surprise cameo by EL James. After years of creative burnout, Nikki took a step back to care for her family and rekindle her spark.
Now, she writes from her restored farmhouse in Texas Horse Country. Her home, once dubbed “Dump to Dream,” inspires the kind of hope she weaves into every book. Whether it’s a reclusive star in Healing His Heart or a grieving sister in Her Twelve Miracles of Christmas, Nikki’s stories are layered with meaning.
When she’s not writing, she’s sipping tea, reworking her website (again), or dreaming up the next love story that just might change a life.
"Were there none who were discontented with what they have, the world would never reach anything better." Florence Nightingale
FAQ
When did you begin writing?
I began writing in 2007. After almost 1000 rejection letters from agents and publishers, I was granted my first publishing contract from a digital-first publisher in 2009. My first published book, Sounds to Die By, was released in October 2009. It was released on my wedding anniversary, so it was a double win for me that day.
Why did you begin writing?
It started as a hobby, but quickly became a passion for sharing stories about strong women and the men strong enough to treat them as equals.
How many books have you written?
Over 20. When my publisher closed, many of the previously published books were re-released under new covers. I no longer write actively enough to release four books a year, but I do allow my creative juices freedom and release new stories periodically.
What's your biggest challenge when it comes to writing?
Time. There is never enough time to do all the things I want in a day, but even when I'm not at the keyboard I'm working story angles in my head.
What's your proudest accomplishment?
In terms of my writing, I would say my story 12 Miracles of Christmas. It was originally published as Her Miracle Man. That was my first time to tackle truly complicated concepts in a story. It was based on a real hospital and after publication, I was contacted by some women who work in that hospital who'd stumbled across the book. They loved it! That was a major moment of pride for me.
Who were your first inspirations?
I fell in love with romance books through the writing of Nora Roberts. As an author, I was inspired by romance legends Sylvia Day, Shayla Black, and Candace Havens to bring storytelling magic to life. I learned precious lessons from each of these ladies.
What does a typical day look like for you?
My days once involved vampire Barbies and wall-painting dogs. Now, my girls are grown, so things have calmed down some. Currently, I juggle the daily demands of pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Management, a PMP Certification, unemployment, and writing. When I am not behind the keyboard, I am generally found elbows deep in DIY projects, or caring for horses, dogs, and goats.
Visit me on Facebook for a peek into my world.
"Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit." Wilma Rudolph