What has been your favorite part of seeing Love & Other Disasters in the world so far? But I do picture lots of possible paths crossing for all of my characters in their futures. The characters of L&OD are more based out of the East Coast, where I grew up, while the characters of my novellas are based in Portland, Oregon, where I now live, so there are little parts of me throughout the different books. I wanted to create a world where queer people could imagine themselves hanging out and thriving. I wanted to make a hopeful queer world where everyone could be whoever the hell they want, where there are trials and tribulations but everyone treats each other with care. Romance is a world of escapism, but I think what makes it such a popular and powerful genre is that it’s a hopeful escape. All three books exist in the same universe how did you first dream up this world? Love & Other Disasters is your first traditionally-published novel, and it joins your two self-published novellas, Sing Anyway (2021) and Our Favorite Songs (2021). This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. The friendship quickly spins into love (and heat), and I had the chance to speak with Kelly about all of this love (and surmountable disasters). Recently-divorced Dahlia is trying to discover her new place in the world, and where better to do that than the stage of Chef’s Special? She also finds friendship with nonbinary contestant London, who is navigating coming out so publicly.

Kelly’s characters are engaging, lovable, quirky, and real. It only stands to reason, then, that novels can do the same thing for readers, and Anita Kelly delivers and then some in their first traditionally-published novel, Love & Other Disasters. They have also been safe havens for queer people to find representation.

Cooking competition shows are beloved for their delightful cast of characters, methodical rhythm, and delicious artistry.

Anita kelly books