Meet Tara Conrad

We were lucky to catch up with Tara Conrad recently and have shared our conversation below.

Tara, we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

Only those closest to me know that I struggle with anxiety and depression stemming from PTSD. Overcoming the challenges has been a profound journey for me. Several years ago, we experienced severe trauma after an adoption went horribly wrong, leaving me feeling alone, empty, and broken beyond repair. My husband recognized the depth and darkness of my depression and understood I needed a safe outlet for my emotions. Unable to talk about the trauma, he suggested I try journaling.

Putting pen to paper was terrifying at first. Some days, I could only manage a few words. But gradually, those words turned into sentences, and sentences turned into pages. I began to feel like I could breathe again.

Seeing my positive response to journaling, my husband encouraged me to pursue two things. First, he suggested I return to school to pursue a degree in writing. Earning my post-graduate degree was something I wanted but had given up on ever happening. My undergraduate degree is in psychology, but given our experiences, I knew I couldn’t go back to that. Though writing was never on my radar, I started applying to graduate programs. The second thing he asked was for me to start writing our romance story.

I was accepted into a master’s degree program at Southern New Hampshire University. I fell in love with everything I was learning. It felt like the pieces of me that I thought were broken began to heal, but the darkness never fully disappeared. There were still days when getting out of bed was a struggle.

In the master’s program, I opened up to a professor about my trauma. She encouraged me to write about my experiences and use it as a sample for an MFA program application. Initially, I thought she was crazy. Reliving my trauma through writing seemed unbearable, and I doubted it would be good enough for an MFA program—doubted I was good enough for an MFA program.

Writing about my trauma was nearly as painful as living through it. Each session was a visceral experience, bringing tears to my eyes and making breathing feel impossible. It was as though I could hear the words and feel the sensations as if it were happening all over again. I considered deleting the piece and quitting multiple times.

Throughout this, my husband stood by me, offering unwavering support. His belief in me pushed me to complete the piece. I applied to four MFA programs at universities across the country. To my surprise, I was accepted into all four.

During my studies, I began to write seriously. What started as a therapeutic outlet became my sanctuary, a place to pour out my fears, anxieties, and hopes. Each story helped me navigate through dark times and find light in creativity.

Writing gave me a newfound sense of purpose and confidence. Crafting narratives and bringing characters to life provided a way to reclaim control over my life, transforming my pain into something beautiful and meaningful.

Moreover, writing connected me with others on a deeper level. Sharing my story opened up conversations about mental health, creating a sense of community and understanding. It showed me that I wasn’t alone in my struggles and that my words could resonate with and help others facing similar battles.

Two years later, I graduated summa cum laude from the MFA program with a completed romance novel, Her Surrender, loosely based on my husband’s and my story. More importantly, I re-discovered myself. Finding purpose in writing has been pivotal to my mental health journey. Writing isn’t just a career choice. It’s a lifeline that has helped me navigate the toughest times. Every story I write is a testament to my resilience and growth, a reminder of the strength I possess.

Writing gave me a voice when I felt unheard, a purpose when I felt lost, and a way to contribute positively to the world despite my challenges. It continues to empower me, helping me persist and thrive in the face of adversity.

Today, I’m a successful self-published romance author with a ten-book series and several standalone novels. I love the life I’ve created for myself. Not every day is perfect, but I’ve learned to give myself grace. For a long time, I believed I was broken beyond repair. My husband’s constant encouragement helped me realize I might have been bruised, but I was never broken.

Through self-publishing, I’ve connected with readers from all over the world who resonate with my stories. Their messages of support and gratitude remind me that my words have an impact, helping others feel seen and understood. This connection with my readers has become a source of joy and motivation, driving me to continue writing and sharing my stories.

Building a career as a self-published author has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, dedication, and the power of storytelling. I’ve embraced the challenges of marketing, editing, and promoting my work. I’m incredibly grateful to have my husband as my business partner in this venture. His unwavering support and business skills have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of this industry. Together, we’re building a successful business, combining our talents and passions to create a rewarding and promising career.

Each book I write is a testament to my journey, a piece of my heart and soul shared with the world. Writing has given me a sense of fulfillment and purpose, allowing me to transform my experiences into narratives that inspire and uplift others. My stories are not just entertainment. They’re a reflection of my growth and healing, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is hope.

With every project, I continue to explore new themes and characters, pushing the boundaries of my creativity. Writing has become a way to navigate through life’s challenges and celebrate its joys. Every book I complete is a constant reminder of the strength I possess and the beauty that can arise from adversity.

Today, I’m proud of the person I’ve become and the stories I have yet to tell. No longer do I believe I was ever broken. I was wounded, but I’m healing. I am strong.

For anyone struggling with their own battles, I hope my journey can be a beacon of hope. You are seen. You are heard. Your story matters. May you find peace knowing that even the darkest moments can be turned into something beautiful.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m a self-published romance author. I write sizzling and passionate love stories that ignite the senses. My novels celebrate the fiery intensity of desire, blending deep emotional connections, relatable characters, and captivating plots that ensnare readers from the very first page to the last.

My books go beyond mere passion and romance. They explore the intricate dynamics of relationships, the challenges, and the triumphs. My brand stands out for its authentic portrayal of love and desire, wrapped in compelling narratives that keep readers hooked.

What’s new for Tara Conrad? I’m continuously expanding my portfolio with more exciting releases on the horizon. My latest release is my Love Heals/Love Hurts duet. It’s an LGBTQ, BDSM romance that tells a heart-wrenching tale of love, hope, and the fight for survival.
I’m also working on a new book that will release this fall. It’s a dark mafia retelling. I’m excited to bring this story to my readers.
I encourage you to follow me on social media to stay up-to-date on all my future releases. You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, and Tik Tok @TaraConradAuthor.
I also have a Facebook reader’s group I welcome you to join. https://www.facebook.com/groups/571538573826855

I actively engage with my audience on social media, sharing insights, updates, and connecting with my readers in meaningful ways. Meeting readers is one of my favorite parts of being an author, so I regularly attend as many book signings as gpossible. If you’re interested in purchasing any of my signed paperbacks, contacting me, or seeing my event schedule, please go to my website, www.TaraConradAuthor.com.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

1. Resilience: Resilience was crucial not only in dealing with my mental health struggles as well as facing the challenges of writing and publishing. Writing became my therapeutic outlet to combat anxiety and depression from PTSD. The process of creating stories helped me find confidence and purpose. My advice for those early in their healing journey is to stay persistent and believe in your voice, especially during tough times. Embrace writing as a tool for healing and growth—allow it to become your passion. Surround yourself with a supportive community, whether it’s fellow writers, friends, or family. Remember that every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Keep pushing forward and never give up on your dreams, no matter the obstacles you face.

2. Authenticity: Authenticity in storytelling resonated deeply with my readers and was a significant part of my healing process. Writing stories and leaving a piece of myself, whether it’s the trauma, hurt, or healing, allows me to connect with my audience on a profound level. To develop authenticity, write from the heart, and don’t be afraid to explore deep, personal themes. Engage in self-reflection and be honest in your writing. For me, writing authentically is how I process and express my emotions. It’s a cathartic experience.
It’s also important to remain authentic to myself. Yes, my books are on shelves in Barnes and Noble stores, and people line up to get my autograph. But I’m still me—an often awkward girl who gets terribly nervous. Who questions if her books are good enough. You might be tempted to change yourself (and your writing) to please other people, but that isn’t the path you should go down. Readers can sense when an author and a story are heartfelt and honest, and that authenticity is what will keep them coming back for more.

3. A Supportive Network: Surrounding myself with supportive people was essential for my journey, both as a writer
and in managing my mental health. My personal circle was always there cheering me on. Additionally, meeting supportive people in the industry who were further along in their journey provided invaluable guidance and inspiration. My advice is to seek out mentors and peers who can offer support, advice, and encouragement. Don’t forget to pass on what you’ve learned to those coming after you, creating a cycle of support and growth. These connections can offer immense emotional support and motivation, helping you in your writing journey.

For those starting their journey, know that not every day is going to be a success, and that’s okay. Learn from your mistakes and strive to do better tomorrow. Embrace writing, in whatever form you do it, as a tool for healing and personal growth. Understand that success takes on many forms. It’s not only in selling books but, almost more importantly, how you make others feel. Show kindness and compassion in everything you do, and it will come back to you in good measure. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey.

The past three years of being an author have been the most exciting of my life. I’m so thankful my husband had the foresight to encourage me to pick up a pen and start writing. This has been an amazing ride, and I know it’s far from over.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

I can’t name any one individual. However, I can say there are several authors in the romance author community that have provided me not only guidance in my career but also whom I’m honored to now call friends. From day one of my career, when I was overwhelmed with the beginning steps, to today, when I ask for guidance in scaling up my brand, I’m surrounded by a circle of strong women who are always willing to help me learn a new skill or to offer encouragement on the difficult days. I’m so thankful I’ve found my tribe, and I love them all dearly.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://taraconradauthor.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taraconradauthor/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaraConradAuthor
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taraconradauthor

  Facebook Reader’s Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/571538573826855