Danielle Allen
Danielle Allen is a USA Today bestselling author, an educator, and a life coach currently living in the suburbs of Richmond, Virginia. Although she wanted to write a book since the third grade, it wasn’t until she put ‘write a book’ on her 30×30 list that she did it. That attempt turned into her debut novel.
Danielle Allen writes contemporary romance novels that aim to change the status quo of the genre. She constructs love stories with overarching messages and life lessons to pair with the romance. Having her work featured in Essence, Upscale, USA Today, People, Refinery29, NPR, Ebony, and more, she’s captivated readers with unpredictable storylines while (mostly) sticking to the romance formula. She has traveled across the country meeting readers and speaking to audiences about her work, the messages behind the work, and the process of creating the work. Those in attendance report not only having a good time but also feeling moved—which makes sense since Danielle also writes self-awareness books in the form of motivational nonfiction journals.
The Art of Being is a series of life coaching journals, panel discussions, workshops, and events created by Danielle Allen that emphasize self-awareness, self-love, and self-improvement. In combining her counseling, teaching, and writing backgrounds, Danielle has found a way to reach others in hopes of inspiring and encouraging people to live their best lives. Her goal is to help people help themselves.
Danielle has a Master’s degree in Human Services with a concentration in Marriage and Family Counseling, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. An alumna of Old Dominion University, she began her career in human services counseling working with disadvantaged teens and adults. Shifting gears from counseling, Danielle later began teaching those who would work in the human services field. Since becoming a full-time author, she has taken a teaching hiatus.
Contemporary Romance
Danielle discusses both her traditionally and her independently published work, including Curvy Girl Summer, Plus Size Player, Big Girl Blitz (traditional), and Broken Clocks, Truth or Dare, and InstaLove (indie).
The Process
Danielle shares her experience and thoughts on writing, storytelling, and publishing.
Self-Love
Danielle draws on her life coaching expertise, inspiring audiences to pour into themselves and reach greater self-acceptance, self-worth, and self-confidence.
Self-Awareness
Danielle focuses on self-awareness and taking an inventory of self, guiding audiences toward both self-trust and self-improvement.
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“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Danielle Allen twice…both have been memorable and so enjoyable — highlights of my bookseller career…Every romance reader I spoke to about her event was so excited and every single person showed up…The energy in the room was just unbelievably beautiful, healing, and uplifting.”
— Preet Singh, Events Coordinator, Eagle Eye Book Shop (Decatur, GA)
“Danielle Allen is one of my favorite conversation partners. Her ability to deliver deep truths through the medicine of banter, lighthearted humor, and romance is truly a wonder to behold and a treat for anyone in attendance.”
— Edrick, Content Creator @edrickreadit (Raleigh, NC)
“It was one of those nights we are still talking about. [Danielle] is one of those speakers who just pulls everyone in. Warm, funny, completely present with her readers. The crowd was electric and nobody wanted to leave.”
— Tina Long, Owner, Cupid’s Bookshop (Philadelphia, PA)
“Danielle Allen is such a joy to work with! Her excitement and passion for her writing and storytelling is always so evident…Her energy is so radiant and knows how to engage with the audience for a fun and lively conversation. We have loved hosting her at Steamy Lit!”
— Melissa Saavedra, Founder – Steamy Lit – The Steam Box (Miami, FL)
“Working with Danielle Allen was an absolute pleasure. She has a natural ability to connect with audiences in a way that feels genuine, thoughtful, and engaging.”
— Darlene Okpo, Owner, Adanne Bookshop (Brooklyn, NY)
“Danielle is warm, friendly, and engaging, and she makes each reader she spends time with feel like the most important person in the room. Her books are amazing, but spending time with her in person is even better. She is truly a ray of light in the book community.”
— Andi Richardson, GM of Fountain Bookstore (Richmond, VA)
“Danielle is a dynamic and inspirational speaker who connects with the audience in a deeply personal way. Her characters are highly relatable, and readers can clearly see that she writes from a place of honesty and community. Danielle exudes professionalism and is a beloved figure in our community.”
— Theresa Arline, Kindred Stories (Houston, TX)
“There are many reasons why our bookstore loves to host Danielle Allen…though the biggest reason is the joy she brings to a room. Just as captivating as her books, it is so inspiring to hear Danielle talk about her creative journey and how her books work as a conversation with her readers. I love seeing the community come together each year to celebrate these stories that center around strong Black female friendships and keeping your expectations high because that’s what you deserve.”
— Meghan, Lark & Owl Booksellers (Georgetown, TX)
