“Kelli Jae Baeli proves herself not just a fine storyteller,
but one who’s highly skilled at her craft, both artist and artisan.”
~from Have Books Will Review
Even after 61 books, I always try to write the sort of book I would want to read. My favorite thing to do is take a common trope and turn it on its ear. Where you expect a zig, I give you a zag.
In my pages, you will find strong female characters, ethical dilemmas, realistic romantic storylines often filled with adventure and intense pacing, tempered by witty dialog, and happy endings. All are hallmarks of my work.
As a Bestselling Genre-Hopping Indie Author, I’ve enjoyed a sales position in the top 5% of lesbian writers, but I write crossover and mainstream fiction as well. All 34 of my FemFic novels have been bestsellers in the genres of domestic suspense, domestic thriller, women’s adventure, romantic suspense, apocalyptic, speculative, and science fiction.
I do write nonfiction, but not as often these days.
I’m a veteran, Democrat and unabashed feminist. When I can find the time, I’m a Hidden Object gamer, TV binge-watcher, nature-lover, and avid reader.
I’m also a mixed-media artist (mostly clay and abstract painting) and former performing singer-songwriter with over 200 songs. My wife, Melissa Walker-Baeli, is a budding author in her own right, and we live with two dogs, (Noodle and Whatnot) 2 cats, (Poppet and Chicklet) on ten acres in the gorgeous Northwoods of Michigan.
I am a 59yo male hetero and I can honestly say that I love your work. Your characters are very “human” and down to earth. I just this second finished “As you were” and was not able to put it down. Tru and Brittany came across as if I was friends with them in real life. Fantastic.
Steve, I thank you for such a sweet comment. In my work, I have always wanted to break through the confines of “this is a book for lesbians” and into “This is a book for PEOPLE.” I’m sure I have many other “lesfic” books you might enjoy, but I also have several mainstream books. Currently, I am working on my first post-apocalyptic book (Apocalyptic Women: All Bets Are Off) and recently released a prequel novelette for that work (Juvie: True North) that is even in the YA category, which is my first one in that genre. It was an accident. LOL. Anyway, I’ve always believed that many men would enjoy my work, (and some have let me know that they DO follow me) and I’m glad to see that this was true for you, as well. Please stay in touch, and I hope you will let me know if you read another of my books. Thanks again, Steve.
Be Well,
Jae
I found your writing on Kindle by searching for mysteries with a strong female character. I almost always go through my searches (usually mysteries and sci fi/fantasy) and center on female authors, as I find them generally more interesting in terms of characterization and interpersonal relationship dynamics.
I’ve read many of your books, and just discovered your blog here. I find that your writing makes me a better person, in that you dangle insights into my hetero life in the guise of lesfic that compel me to rethink a great deal of my preconceptions about women in general, and most specifically, my wife, my daughters and granddaughters.
AKA #6, for example, in its portrayal of the banding together of the DPD … I initially rejected the premise that all the males would band together in that manner and then began re-thinking. I live very near Ferguson, MO, and I started thinking about what you were portraying in the light of race issues here in the St Louis metro area. I re-thought, re-evaluated, and re-jected my initial rejection.
Your works entertain, and for that I thank you. They also educate and maybe, just maybe, soften and humanize even old farts like me.
Thank you.
Jim–thank you so much for your comment. Sentiments like that are so valuable to me, so validating. Oddly, i was writing a blog about that very subject, when i came across your comment. I hope you don’t mind that I quoted you. (Fiction as World-View). I love knowing that I have male readers, and for the reasons you say. Again, please know that i appreciate you and the time you took to drop me a line. Best to you and yours.
Just a note: I also like what Jim has to say about your writing. Hope you don’t mind my commenting on your comment! Have a great weekend…Dina Moreno
thanks, Dina! You’re welcome to comment anytime. 🙂
I have just discovered your works! I always hated reading lesbian fiction… Because it was always so… Banal? And really, just that.. Fiction. I moved to Joplin, Mo in March of 2011, to reconnect with the love of my life… Again… at the time it was a 32 year ridiculousness, mostly from my inability to change or grow as a human. Lots of inability to change, and many other issues, the last 4 years since the Joplin tornado, I still find myself here trying to be better. Your Jobeth and Phoebe characters run a ridiculously similar pattern to mine and my partners life that are eerie. Maybe I should write a book, lol.I just wanted to say that I found your work thus far awesome! I love Eureka Springs and am very glad you found comfort and goodness in your new home.
so pleased to hear that my work resonates with you. I wish you the best in your reinvention. Been there, done that. It’s hard, but worth the effort to have the life you want. Thanks for your kind words and sharing your thoughts. <3
Hi I have just finished all 3 of the rainfall books they are fantastic thank you. Will there be more to follow.
Thank you! Yes, there will be more. My next book will probably be #2 in the New Harbor Witches series, then #4 in Rain Falls, then #7 in AKA Investigations. Other smaller things in between those and whatever else calls to me, but that’s the plan. Thank you for the note. <3
I just finished book 2 in the Rain Falls series and am about to start the 3rd. I have become a huge fan and can not wait to read the rest of your work. I am an avid reader as it is and these books have made me more so. You truly bring your characters to life and they feel like old friends. I stay at home full time to take care of my grandmother with Alzheimer’s so I am unable to get out and meet people,reading is what keeps me sane. Thank you for the hours of enjoyment and bringing some joy to my world.
Nicole–There are few things more satisfying than to hear that my writing is so meaningful to a reader. Thank you so much for sharing that with me–it means more than you might imagine. I do feel the same way about the characters–they are like friends to me, so I understand that sensation. I’m just so pleased that it also translates to the reader. That’s the best a writer can hope for. I can imagine how difficult it is to be in your situation and I understand how important it is to be able to escape for a time, if only into the pages of a book. I’m so glad my books are serving that purpose for you. Wishing you all the best, Nicole. <3
Kelli Jae Baeli
Hello i just discovered your work last weekend and am now on #8 Ive read the 3 rainfalls,pit and am now on #4 of aka love them all. Thanks for sharing your talent.
Jakque
Thank you so much, Jakque, for letting me know. Always a treat to hear from readers. 🙂
i was entranced by your wonderful books.
Thank you
what a wonderful thing to say! Thank you Lindsay. <3