Sarah T. Dubb on Midlife Romance and a Hallmark Movie Deal

Are you looking for an inspiring midlife romance that celebrates self-discovery and second chances? This episode is for romance readers and birders alike! On We Read Smut, we're talking with author Sarah T. Dubb about her debut, Birding with Benefits, and her upcoming small-town romance, Honey Bee Mine.We dive deep into the journey of women in their forties finally turning their love and care onto themselves, the power of fierce female friendships, and the unexpected moment Sarah's book was optioned and picked up by Hallmark.Sarah T Dubb is a writer, librarian, parent and activist living Tucson, Arizona. Her debut romcom, Birding with Benefits, was an NPR pick for 2024 Books We Love and is being adapted into a movie for the Hallmark Channel. Her second book, Honey Bee Mine, will be out in February, 2026.In this episode, we're discussing:The Power of Midlife Romance: Sarah intentionally wrote her heroine, Celeste, who is in her forties and navigating perimenopause and a divorce, to show that midlife is a "second twenties," a time for new careers, new relationships, and self-discovery.Turning Caregiving on Yourself: We discuss how the heroine is challenged to stop being "shitty at doing that for ourselves" and instead turn the fierce care and amazing friendship she gives to others back onto herself.Hallmark Movie Instant Gratification: Sarah shares the wild process of her book being optioned before it was even released, and how she learned the rights were purchased just ten days before filming started—making it one of the most instantly gratifying author experiences.Writing for Joy: Discover how writing low-stakes, spicy novellas under her pen name, Eliza McClain, helped Sarah reconnect with the joy of writing and escape the pressure of the traditional publishing machine.If you need a fun, heartwarming romance that encourages you to be curious and discover new interests (like birding!), start with Birding with Benefits! Be sure to look out for Sarah's next small-town romance, Honey Bee Mine, coming in February 2026!CONNECT WITH SARAH T DUBB:WebsiteInstagramSupport the showJoin the Paid Substack Community Want early access to next week's episode, entry into our private Discord server, two monthly virtual silent book clubs, and a free monthly e-book? Head over to our Substack and join the paid community to get closer to the text and support this sponsor-free show. Connect with Alesia:StorygraphInstagramThis podcast was produced by Galati Media.Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collective.