Interview with Sarah Towns, Author of Our Own Little Bubble

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Our Own Little Bubble?

This book was born from wanting to capture the magic of a Midwest summer—those long, sticky days by the lake that feel endless and alive. I grew up with that. Then I added my favorite thing: a slow-burn, tension-filled romance hotter than the muggy air. It’s also a fish-out-of-water story—Max is a big-city guy dropped into rustic camp life. I’ve made that move myself, and I wanted to explore how a place can soften you, shift you, and maybe even show you what you didn’t know you needed.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Our Own Little Bubble, what would they be?

“Small Doses” by Bebe Rexha. I listened to it on repeat while writing certain scenes. The lyrics capture that irresistible push and pull—the addictive tension, the moments they can’t stay away even when they try.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Contemporary romance is my go-to for both reading and writing—I’m a sucker for the build-up, the tension, and that first kiss. But I also love thrillers and suspense. Some of my books mix in those darker threads, and I’m currently working on one that leans more into the romance-thriller side.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I’m currently reading Obsession Falls by Claire Kingsley—anxiously awaiting that first kiss and completely charmed by Audrey’s dog, who’s basically the perfect sidekick. Next up are Flawless by Elsie Silver and My Silver Lining by Laura Pavlov. Clearly on a slow-burn, small-town romance streak.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The paint fight—hands-down my favorite scene to write! Sadie’s furious, and what starts as an accident explodes into something messy, emotional, and completely unfiltered. A lot of buried tension surfaces… followed by an even messier (and far more satisfying) scene I won’t spoil. The inspiration came from Monkey Business (1952) with Cary Grant and Ginger Rogers. They’re acting like kids during a paint fight, and I loved that chaotic, playful release. I just wanted a grown-up version—with a lot more heat—and Max and Sadie definitely deliver.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I wish I had something quirky and charming—like a lucky mug or a cat curled on my lap—but honestly, it’s usually me stealing time between work and my kids, typing half a scene while reheating the same cup of coffee for the third time. Does emotional whiplash count as a writing habit?

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“I think I can.” It’s from The Little Engine That Could, and I love it because if you don’t think you can… You really won’t. Belief is everything.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

The burn—that magnetic pull between two people, where every glance, every brush of skin, carries too much meaning. Where it feels fated. Inevitable. Beautiful. That’s the feeling I chase when I write, and I hope it stays with readers long after the final page.

Sarah Towns is the author of the new book Our Own Little Bubble

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