In 2019, I received a text from Michigan author Erin Bartels, who received my number through a friend of a friend. Knowing my book club would love to have an author attend one evening, I texted her back the directions and time. My friend Brian was leading the discussion that night, and he was all in for the author attending.
For those who haven’t heard of Erin yet, she has become one of my favorite authors. She adds layers of Michigan into her work, while also keeping a sense of depth and authenticity to her writing. By day she is a senior copywriter for a publishing company based on the west side of the state. Through her side job, she manages to create amazing stories that bring deeply relatable characters to life.
While I confess, I love picking up her books to see if I can catch some reference to Michigan’s natural beauty, such as the seasons, culture, forests, and lakes – small, big, or great. Most of all I find myself yearning for those sprinklings of references that remind me why I love to call this place home.
Her latest novel The Lady with the Dark Hair is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story that explores themes of art, identity, and family dynamics. The novel follows a young woman named Ivy, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after she is drawn into the mystery of a painting that resembles her. The book beautifully weaves together personal struggles with historical intrigue and Bartels’ purpose behind writing this story that goes beyond the plot, speaking to universal themes about what it means to be seen, understood, and valued.
Whether it’s the stories about the secrets that bind us or the history that has been passed down through generations, I can’t express how much I enjoy Erin’s writing and storytelling. So, if you are looking for a book to pick up, consider one of her books. And, if you get a chance, try to make it to one of the dates that she is participating in Michigan’s 2025 Notable Book Tour. I promise you won’t be disappointed. (And, I’m not just saying that because the photo I took of her is still prominently displayed on her website)!
