When I first reached out to author Julie Farley, it was because I hoped she might be interested in participating in a meet and greet or book giveaway for my readers. As a longtime fan of her writing, I was excited about the possibility of working together. I had also been wanting to start a community book club for quite some time, and Julie's novel, The Housewives of Greensea Island, felt like the perfect choice for our very first selection. Her stories capture so much of what makes life in the Pacific Northwest special, blending friendship, community, humor, and heart in a way that instantly connects with readers.
While Julie's Greensea Island series may feel like it has always existed, the idea was born during the pandemic. Like so many of us, she found herself spending more time at home with her family, watching beloved shows like Gilmore Girlsand Gossip Girl. Those shows sparked an idea for a fictional Pacific Northwest island filled with memorable characters, small-town secrets, and an anonymous gossip reporter keeping tabs on everyone. What started as an idea soon became a world that readers have fallen in love with.
Although she began writing in high school, it was after the pandemic that Julie felt a renewed determination to pursue her dreams. The experience shifted her perspective and reminded her that there is no better time than now to chase the things that matter. That passion and determination are woven into every page she writes.
One of the most unique elements of Julie's series is the ferry-centered setting. For those who live in the Pacific Northwest, ferries are a familiar part of everyday life. For visitors, they often feel magical. Julie sees ferries as much more than transportation. They are places where stories begin, friendships form, and unexpected moments unfold. She loves hearing real-life ferry stories, whether it's couples who met onboard or the mystery of people accidentally walking off without their cars. Those everyday moments help inspire the fictional world of Greensea Island.
Julie and her family moved to Bainbridge Island in 2016 from Virginia, and she immediately found inspiration in the community around her. The creativity, charm, and unique personalities that make Bainbridge special quickly found their way into her writing. Through school activities, volunteering, and community involvement, she discovered countless stories and characters that continue to influence her work today.
Before launching the Greensea series, Julie had already experienced success as an author. More than a decade ago, she published a series of romance novels that were distributed internationally. When it came time to publish the Greensea books, she received interest from a traditional publisher but ultimately chose to self-publish. She had a clear vision for the series and wanted complete creative control over bringing that vision to life.
Among all of her books, Cozy Cabins and Ferry Tales holds a particularly special place in her heart. The story is inspired by the log cabin where her family first lived after moving to Bainbridge Island. From the leaky roof and towering chimney to the bats that occasionally made appearances, many of the details readers enjoy were pulled directly from real life.
For Julie, one of the greatest rewards of being an author is hearing from readers who connected with her stories during difficult times. She intentionally writes hopeful, uplifting books that offer readers an escape from everyday stress. Her novels remind readers that there is beauty in ordinary moments and that even small-town stories can leave a lasting impact.
Beyond writing novels, Julie is deeply invested in supporting the literary community. She serves as co-lead of the BARN Writers' Studio, where she helps create opportunities for writers and readers to connect. She has also enjoyed teaching young writers and helping them discover their own creativity. Watching others find confidence in their storytelling is something she treasures.
Julie admits that writing is about much more than publishing books. It is how she processes the world around her, organizes her thoughts, and captures ideas before they disappear. Whether she's driving, walking, or standing in the shower, inspiration often strikes unexpectedly, and her notes app is filled with observations waiting to become stories.
Like many successful authors, Julie has learned that writing is only part of the job. Marketing, branding, event planning, and managing a self-publishing business all require significant time and effort. Still, she approaches those challenges with the same dedication she brings to her storytelling. She has built a brand that reflects her authentic love for island life, making the work feel meaningful rather than overwhelming.
When asked what she is most proud of, Julie's answer speaks volumes about who she is. Beyond the books themselves, she is proud of showing her children what it looks like to build a career around passion and creativity. Through discipline, perseverance, and a willingness to keep going even when life gets busy, she has created something truly special.
These days, Julie continues to dream big. She hopes to expand the Greensea series into audiobooks and, perhaps one day, even see the stories adapted for the stage. Judging by the enthusiasm of her readers, that dream may not be as far away as it seems.
When she's not writing, Julie enjoys gardening, knitting, walking, pickleball, and playing mahjong with fellow local authors. She loves spending time in Bainbridge Island's coffee shops, exploring the Grand Forest, and, of course, reading a good romantic comedy. Her favorite writing companion is what she affectionately calls "beige coffee"—coffee with plenty of creamer.
And perhaps the most surprising thing readers may learn about her? Julie was once struck by lightning while trying to rescue a stack of books from a storm. Thankfully, she lived to tell the tale—and thankfully for readers, she continues to share many more stories with us today.
Through her books, Julie Farley reminds us that extraordinary stories can be found in ordinary places. Sometimes all it takes is a ferry ride, a small-town secret, or a community full of colorful characters to create a little magic.
Please feel free to join us this Friday event
