Hello Book Lovers,

It’s February! That means the days are getting longer, heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are everywhere, and we have two holidays, one celebrating friendship and the other love. What more could we ask for?

I’ve always enjoyed Valentine’s Day. It’s a celebration of love, and yet another good reason to treat myself to a new romance novel. This year, I even have a Valentine-themed novella coming out on the Harlequin website, Roses for the Single Mom (more on that in my next newsletter!)

But Galentine’s Day? That’s some serious fun. Popularized in 2010 by my favorite fictional city employee, Leslie Knope of Parks and Rec, the idea spread quickly. If you’re in the mood to celebrate with your crew this year, here’s an easy, do-it-yourself Galentine’s Day Party Formula!
 

Galentine’s Day Party Formula

Step One: Pick a Theme
Parties are always fun when there’s a theme to get into. Here are a few ideas:

• Pajama Party
• Movie Night
• Cooking/baking
• High Tea
• Fancy Dress Cocktail Party
• Comfort Food Dinner Party
• Game Night
• Decade Dress Up

Step Two: Plan an Easy-to-Prepare Menu
There’s a time and place for intricate menus and challenging recipes but Galentine’s isn’t it! Find easy-to-make, or order in, treats for the group. Celebrating female friendships pairs well with potluck, so feel free to ask friends to bring a dish. Some fun, Galentine’s menus include:

• A Collaborative Charcuterie Board: each guest brings two items (cheese, meats, crackers / bread, olives, etc.) to share.
• Dessert Tasting: each guests brings a favorite dessert and your set up a formal tasting.
• Wine Tasting: same as above, but with wine!
• Movie Snacks: popcorn, candy, mini-pizzas, soda, etc.
• Tea Sandwiches and Treats: Invite guests to help assemble fun tea sandwiches such cucumber and cream cheese, chicken salad, etc. Serve with mini scones, cookies, and tea.
• Waffle Bar: Set up the waffle maker in the dining area and ask each guest to bring a waffle topping.

Step 3: Plan Your Activities
Remember the fun slumber parties of our youth? That’s the vibe you’re going for!

• Play silly ice breakers, like Two Truths and a Lie, or Would You Rather
• Have a book exchange, where everyone brings a favorite (romance) novel to share
• Play party games, like Apples to Apples, charades, and others. The internet is full of Galentine’s Day-specific games!
• Host a penny poker tournament
• Rent a karaoke machine
• Throw a pajama dance party with music from your high school era
• Do at-home spa treatments like facials and pedicures
• Create a Fire Book, rather than a Burn Book, where everyone writes something nice about everyone at the party

Final Word: Galentine’s Goals
Whatever theme, activities, or menu you choose, the focus of Galentine’s Day is to celebrate our female friendships. Don’t worry about cleaning the house or creating the perfect playlist, just relax and celebrate your gals with gratitude!

Free Teri Wilson Novella

And speaking of my squad, there is a whole network of amazing women writing romance. One of the literal best people you’ll meet in Romancelandia is Teri Wilson.  This month I’m thrilled to share her novella with you. Grace Kelly Movie Night is an adorable read. You’re going to love it!

Get your copy here: Grace Kelly Movie Night

When a budding fashion designer finds a cardigan sweater that once belonged to movie star and real-life princess Grace Kelly, her entire life begins to change. But how long will the movie magic last?

Happy Reading!

💕Anna

P.S. The final book in The Teacher Project comes out in April! Pre Order your copy here!
 

Is her secret past…
The key to their future?

Luci Walker has come a long way from her sheltered upbringing. Now she’s back in Pronghorn, Oregon, helping to revive the local school and inspire kids like her who want to see the world. Yet she’s kept her past a secret from her fellow teachers—especially the frustratingly easygoing Mateo Lander. But when Mateo and Luci must work together to turn the old hotel into a student dormitory, Luci’s past becomes very present, and she faces a tough lesson of her own: how to accept her history—and the love of her best friend.