UPCOMING EVENTS
July 12, 2025 – 1pm ET
RWA NYC – Ursula Renee
Media Maven workshop:
Book TV, Podcast and Media Interviews to Expand Your Author Brand
Aug 3, 2025 – 12-2pm PST
Copper Books Petaluma CA
Author meet and greet
Thank you to Kathryn Potts for welcoming me to Copper Books in order to personalize copies of the Goodbye Orchid series!
Sep 17, 2025 TBC
Barnes & Noble Carrollwood FL
Join me for 2 author book signings in the Tampa area
B&N Carrollwood September 17 at 2pm
B&N St Pete’s Beach, FL Thursday or Friday September 18-19 at 6pm
Sep 17-20, 2025
Novelists Inc
Branding Masterclass
Branding case studies
Tradewinds St Pete’s Beach, FL
Oct 22, 2025
Linda & Friends Book Club author spotlight
Join Linda Milito Martin and me for a bookish event
Nov 7, 2025
Abbie’s Darlings takeover
Join us for bookish giveaways
Join 11,000+ readers for my author takeover, where you’ll learn about my author life, play games, and have a chance to win bookish prizes!
Dec 4, 2025 (TBC)
Morris County Chamber of Commerce keynote
Join women executives to celebrate a Woman of Achievement!
Feb 25, 2026 – open to the public 7pm ET
Bookish Road Trip Bookclub
Join us for a discussion of my full trilogy: Orchid Blooming, Goodbye, Orchid, Always Orchid
Additional News
More to look forward to…
Solutionary Sundays with Sunny Chayes
Podcasts: Lynne Golodner
Zena, Gigi Sinyard Bookclub
Patti Sesso from Literary Libationists to host mother-daughter book club
Desideratum Theresa Bakken
BARW 2026 workshop
Carol’s signature workshops
VIEW SAMPLE WORKSHOPS VIDEO BELOW
Brand Land: What is Author Brand and Why Readers Care
Based on decades of marketing and strategy expertise, Carol will demystify what it means to have an author brand, how it’s much more than a logo and web presence, and why it’s foundationally important to do the thinking behind what you want to stand for. In this insightful session, we’ll discuss how to apply archetypes to define your unique brand and the components of an author’s brand framework. We’ll also walk through some real-life examples to show the importance of consistency in visual branding.
Design as Art: 5 Principles to “SPARC” Brilliant Cover Design
Book cover design is a powerful tool to break through the clutter and communicate meaning. Learn about principles of design from a marketing professional. Find out which design elements are most important to keep consistent and why, how to start from your design objectives, and practice assessing design within the right context.
Carol will teach five principles to SPARC great design and share how to apply them to your books:
#1: Simplicity breaks through, so don’t stuff everything onto the cover. Focus!
#2: Prioritize your communications hierarchy.
#3: Assess designs against the brief, not personal taste.
#4: Real-life…assess design in situ.
#5: Consistency, consistency, consistency.
Carol has shared insights on book cover design in Pen to Print, Creative Indie, Kobo Write Life, Novelists Inc, Smith Publicity, DIYMFA, the Writescast podcast and more places.
Craft Marketing Plans like an Author-preneur
Marketing is the art and science of finding and connecting with your audience. In this hands-on session, Carol will demystify how professional marketers devise marketing plans. As with most success, it starts with setting quantifiable objectives. Carol will cover five principles, along with examples and how to apply them to your book launch:
- Readers have options, so authors need to relentlessly pursue a near perfect product
- Entrepreneurs recruit more promoters than detractors
- Reach then convert
- Plan early; then test, learn and adjust
- Marketing is an act of creativity. Approach with an open mindset
Millennials: Apply Generational insights to your writing
Millennials are the largest generation in the US. Find out how they’re defined and insights that can help you write Millennial characters. This session is for you if you’ve ever wondered what events have shaped this cohort, how they’re affected by the weight of college debt, how they’re the most technologically-dependent and diverse generation, and how they’re still fighting the “me, me, me” stereotype. Come to this hands-on workshop to discover insights to help you write authentic characters from this important generation.
Marketing as Mindset: Discover your superpowers
To market your work, you need an author brand, visual identity and well-crafted marketing plans. After the hard work of writing a book, why do these marketing tasks seem daunting? Come to this workshop to learn from 20+ years of marketing and strategy experience. Find out why marketing isn’t manipulation. Overcome the most common marketing blockers using four simple mindset shifts. Join us to experience why one author said after Carol’s workshop: “You inspire me and fire me up every time. I can’t wait to market my book and my why!”
Persuasion, Presence and Planning: Help Readers Fall in Love with Your Books
With writers increasingly meeting readers at bookstores, book clubs, and events, there are more and more opportunities to interact in-person. As an author, have you ever wondered how to engage, what to say, and how to present your books?
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the 1-2-3 Reader Engagement Framework, the Three Tenets of Good Presence, and the components of the pre-event planning checklist. You’ll walk away from this workshop with custom ideas for your own pitch and actionable insights to increase your effectiveness at bookstore signings and more!
“You shifted my entire perspective about how to connect with prospective customers…with your brilliant approach. Thank you for sharing your insights and experience. I have so many actionable points now!”–Nancy Herkness, Award-Winning Author
Media Maven: Book TV, Podcast and Media Interviews to Expand Your Author Brand
Step into the spotlight with confidence and finesse! Introducing “Media Maven: Book TV, Podcast, and Media Interviews to Expand Your Author Brand” – the workshop designed for authors ready to expand beyond social media to explore TV, podcasts and more.
Are you an author interested in sharing your story, insights, and expertise with a wider audience? Consider the power of TV, radio, magazines and podcasts to reach your audience. Led by a marketing professional, this workshop provides you with the practical knowledge and tools to build your media presence.
In this immersive workshop, you’ll learn how to craft compelling pitches that captivate producers and hosts, and prepare for your on-camera presence. You’ll be empowered to shine brightly in any media spotlight!
But the Media Maven workshop goes beyond just landing interviews – it’s about building a lasting brand. Dive deep into strategies for leveraging media appearances to grow your audience and awareness, and live your brand.
“Carol has become one of our favorite speakers. She has a way of breaking down the concepts in a way that makes them easy to understand, and a way of conceptualizing actions that is both flexible and totally do-able.” — Kimber Collins, Programs Director of Golden State Romance Writers
Book Cover and Title Secrets: Stand Out and Sell More
Your book’s cover and title are the first things readers see–are they working as hard as they can? In this action-oriented workshop, uncover the latest trends in book cover design and titles, so you can captivate your readers and drive conversion. We’ll analyze real-world examples, breaking down what works (and what causes issues), so you can make savvy, reader-led decisions for your books.
But we won’t stop at in-market examples. You’ll have a chance to workshop your own work-in-progress covers and titles (submitted in advance) to discuss the pros and cons of various approaches. Whether you’re launching your first novel or refreshing an existing series, this session will help you create a cover and title that demand attention. Join us and give your book the best shot at standing out in a crowded marketplace!
Carol has taught cover design and/or title strategies for DIYMFA, Novelists Inc., Rutgers Writers Conference, Writers’ Digest, CreativIndie, Kobo, Smith Publicity, and many podcasts.
PRIOR EVENTS
June 5, 2025
The Book Nook Flower-Themed evening
It was 89F but we loved our literary evening!
Thank you, amanda, diane and brenda, for hosting me at the book nook. Great meeting sharon, authors elizabeth (liz) lewis and barbara hill, keshia, pamela, jamie, holly, renata, lorenda and more readers while making flower bookmarks and bouquets
June 1, 2025
Brookfest 2025
What a beautiful day for arts, live music, and books!
Thank you, Laurie Pettine and Mendham Arts, for hosting us. Great meeting Sue, Lisa, Emily, Amy, Kathy, Melissa, Laurie, Stefanie, Lori, Hannah, Juan, Julie, Marianne, Ally, Rosemary, Valerie, Judy, Leslie, Denise, Genevieve, Mark, Tracy, Rafi, Lesley, Mindy, Natalie and more readers at Brookfest 2025
May 17, 2025
Golden States Romance Writers
I loved teaching Golden States writers a 4th workshop!
Thank you, Tiffany Turner, Kimber Collins, Mark Vogel, Linda Gunther, Sue Sbardellati, and all GSRW members for a great discussion on Millennial insights applied to our characters.
May 7, 2025
Barnes & Noble Denver CO
I loved meeting readers at Barnes & Noble’s Glendale CO store!
Thank you, Milinda Hale and staff, for a warm welcome and wonderful book signing
May 3-4, 2025
Brook Hollow Winery + Montclair Literary Festival
A busy weekend of book signings, meeting readers and authors!
Congrats on the 10th anniversary of this event, roz lee. thank you to the Ritter Family, readers and writer friends for a fantastic weekend. Looking forward to next year, Caridad Piniero, Samantha ann, Linda Parisi
April 18, 2025
SunCoast Jewish Women’s Book Club
Great to discuss Goodbye, Orchid with this Sarasota / Bradenton FL book club!
Lovely lunchtime chat with Michelle, ILENe, LESLIE, WENDY, CAROLINE, BARBARA, MARGO, MINDi, LORI AND tobi who said that “I loved Goodbye, Orchid!” “It was a fascinating story,” “hope to meet you at barnes & noble St Pete’s beach” and “I can’t wait to read orchid blooming and always orchid!”
April 14, 2025
The Writer’s Network
I loved presenting Brand Land: What is Author Brand and Why Readers Care to The Writer’s Network!
Thank you, Susan McBeth, Amber Reinhart, and Adventures by the Book, for inviting me to speak. Great meeting Chris, susan, and other new authors at the event
April 10, 2025
W. Morris Junior Women’s Club
I loved signing books for friends and members of W. Morris Junior Women’s Club!
Thank you, Julie, Amy, Sharon, Kristen, Cheryl, Amanda, Kayla, Morgan, and Ariana
March 7, 2025
Morris County Chamber of Commerce
What a way to ring in International Women’s Day 2025…with brilliant leaders from consulting, law, banking, finance, coaching, real estate, higher education, non-profits and more…Today was a 10/10!
I loved speaking about the Power of the Pivot, how clarifying questions can guide us in decision-making and that even when change seems daunting, we should remember how resilient we are!
Awesome to hear from attendees “Truly, you are one of our best speakers I’ve ever heard. Your speech moved, inspired, and resonated with me” “Your keynote was inspirational and timely!” and “I’m so inspired by The Power of the Pivot!”
Wishing everyone positive possibilities, clarity of purpose, and a life with no regrets.
March 1, 2025
Nashville Bar Foundation Annual Fellows Dinner
Always Orchid has donated to support this 501C3
Saturday Feb 8, 2025
Barnes & Noble Woodland Park
Assistant Manager Laura and I met at B&N Paramus. She recruited me for their Valentine’s Day book signing. “Thank you so much for coming to our store! We loved having you and the day was a huge success. We’re keeping your books in stock, and we’d love to do something again in the future!”
I met such great readers who bought my Goodbye Orchid series for friends, moms, sisters and themselves. We sold out of Always Orchid!
Saturday Jan 18, 2025
NJRW “Media Maven” workshop
Returned for an 8th workshop with NJRW authors. Thanks to NJRW President Karen Cino, VP Programs Arell Rivers, Heather Andrews and all attendees. Great to hear that the program “was awesome,” “taught me that marketing is multi-layered,” “made me think about my author brand,” and “we’d love to have you back!”
Friday dec 13, 2024
Barnes & Noble Paramus
I loved returning to Barnes&Noble Paramus. Thanks to B&N employees Mayra, Chris and the whole staff. Great meeting readers like Mana, Danielle, Leo, Yaeni, Kyle, Jeff, Kimberly, Melissa, Elizabeth, Mang, Laura, Naomi, James, Bella, Giudi, Sharon, Eliza, Catherine, Liane, Laure, Deborah, Laura, Vincent, Leslie and more. We sold out of Goodbye Orchid!
Saturday dec 7, 2024
Barnes & Noble Easton PA
B&N Easton is one of my favorite area bookstores. Ron, Stan, Emily, Laura, and the whole staff warmly welcomed me back. The wonderful readers in PA bought ALL of my copies of Orchid Blooming and Goodbye Orchid! 🌺
Barnes & Noble posted this rave review for Orchid Blooming:
“I finished Carol Van Den Hende’s wonderfully written first book of this trilogy. She has done an outstanding job of beginning the story of Orchid & Phoenix – the girl who witnessed a tragic accident at age 12 killing her parents resulting in a form of PTSD. The young man who raised by a stern father who is a judge – trying to make his father proud. Then there is the request from father to son 6 months after the father’s death – resulting in the meeting of the two. The project they both feel passionate about – Wounded Veterans with PTSD. This is where the story begins and you have to read to see how Carol brings you into the world of advertising and Wounded Warriors and how PTSD is tied to all the characters. Very well researched and exquisitely told. I found I want to see how this all unfolds and I hope you will as well.”
Saturday Nov 16, 2024
Azores Book Hotel
I’m honored to be the 1st author to give a book talk at the Azores Book Hotel. If you’re ever in Terceira, visit their 5,000 book library and stay in one of their author-inspired rooms. I loved meeting and signing books for Lara, Soraia, Vanessa, Mana, Tiago, Greg, Kerry, Joan, Michelle, Kirk, Sancho, Marge, Bob, Lena, Roby, Davona, Marni and more!
Saturday Oct 12, 2024
Barnes & Noble Center Valley PA
My 1st time signing at B&N Center Valley and 1st time meeting author Robert E. Lofthouse (and his family) in-person. I loved meeting and/or signing books for Amber, Paolo, Nicole, Reem, Liz, Caroline, Susie, Kelly, Veronica, Alyssa, Alycia, Tanishka, Judy Kim, Karen Maida and more!
Saturday Oct 12, 2024
Bay Area Romance Writers
My 1st time teaching a workshop for the Bay Area Romance Writers. I loved discussing Generational Insights with Kris, Amber, Carol, Kristin, Gail, Erica, Lisa, Alice, Pamela, Mary, Mitchelle and Denise!
Sept 26, 2024
Bridgewater Book Club
My THIRD visit with Lauren, Annemarie, Mairead, Jo Ann, Margaret, Amy, Lori and more!
Saturday Sept 21, 2024
Hoboken Library Festival
Beautiful day for the Hoboken Library Festival. I loved seeing director Jennie Pu and meeting readers Amie, Kim, Anne, Olga, Rose, Alex, Agamani, Bethany, Caroline, Tina, Catherine, Maria and more!
Sept 13, 2024
Kansas City Book Club
Thank you, SHELLY DODDS AYERS, for welcoming me to your KC book club after meeting me through Kathy and the Chicago Book Club. It was great discussing the trilogy with you, Ann, Amy, Sarah, Ann, Katherine, and Dana. I was touched that you ended our time with this: “You inspired us. I loved hearing about the behind-the-scenes stories. Thank you for spending time with us!”
AuG 24, 2024
Buffalo Street Books book signing
Thank you, Alejandra and Nora, for welcoming me back to Buffalo Street Books for a 3rd time. It was great meeting Serena, Sandhya, Kate, John, Finn, Victoria, Andre, Rebecca and more. I loved hearing feedback from readers who returned for more of the series, like Alan!
Monday AuG 12, 2024
Mendham Seniors Club 55th Anniversary
Cross-generational connections are special. the Mendham seniors club called me their “young speaker,” loved hearing about the wounded veterans who endorsed my books and enjoyed picking up personalized copies of my Goodbye Orchid series! thank you, pat, mary, gay, jean, nancy, carolyn, marion, diane, eileen, anneMarie, george, judy, joy and more!
July 3, 2024
Book Passage Ferry Building San Francisco
There are moments as an author when you connect with an audience. Tonight was one of those nights. Readers told me “I was meant to meet you,” “You’ve inspired me to follow my dreams,” “you’re a role model for my daughter” and “can I hug you?” I loved speaking and signing books at Book Passage Ferry Building and even sold custom copies of Goodbye Orchid commemorating Book Passage’s 20th anniversary!
June 29, 2024
Book Loft Bookstore Solvang, CA
Solvang readers were a joy. I met visitors from Europe, Australia, and China (Once, I even explained the series in elementary Mandarin). A special needs teacher bought my full trilogy. A book editor loved supporting an AAPI author!
June 22, 2024
Chapter One Bookstore signing
Thank you, Sophia and Stephanie, for welcoming me to Chapter One for Mendham’s sidewalk sale. It was exciting to celebrate Tom Caravela’s best-selling debut book, Job Search Mastery.I loved meeting and signing books for Alexa, Christina, Lisa, Evin, Katie, Robert, Deb, Ani, Pat Daria, Ronald and more!
June 22, 2024
Golden States RW “Media Maven” workshop
Thank you, Kimber Collins, Sue, Joyce, Lisette, Mark V and the Golden States RW, for inviting me to teach how to book TV, podcasts and other media appearances. It was our THIRD visit! And then you made my day by telling me how much the workshop helped!
“Carol has become one of our favorite speakers. She has a way of breaking down the concepts in a way that makes them easy to understand, and a way of conceptualizing actions that is both flexible and totally do-able.”
— Kimber Collins, Programs Director of Golden State Romance Writers
June 12, 2024
Peninsula Book Club Rehoboth DE
Thank you, Tina, Caroline, Leah and the Peninsula Book Club, for inviting me to discuss Always Orchid. “We loved welcoming Carol back a THIRD time. Now we can’t wait for her fourth novel!” —Peninsula Book Club
June 9, 2024
Pulpwood Queens Interview
Thank you, Kathy L. Murphy, for naming Always Orchid PQ’s International Book of June! I loved when you said “I rarely pick three books in a row from the same author!” and “I’m so lucky to be able to speak to an author of your caliber.”
June 8, 2024
Passaic County Book Festival
Thank you, Luca Manna, Shannon Ferber, PALS Plus staff and volunteers for a wonderful festival! I enjoyed meeting Jacqueline, Carla, Devin, Catherine G, Anne, Maureen, Jordan, Siao, Catherine C (who bought the full trilogy and then told her grandma all about it!), Victoria, Jenna, Rosmary, Jennifer, Claudia, Natalie, Lorena, Antuanet, Madisen, Jaylene, Kristen, Grace, Maryann, Megan, Nina, Dee, Angeliz, Debbie, Trish, Kelly, Stephanie, Katherine M, Diana, Jackie, Ashley, Skylar, Angelina, seeing librarian Janette Pardo, speaking with authors Brooke Dean, Felicia Farber, Janelle, Skye McDonald, Catherine, Rey, Maria K Alexander and more!
May 26, 2024
Barnes & Noble Bridgewater Book Signing
Thank you, Cheryl, Charlotte, Freddie, Kristiana, Marina, Megan and the whole staff for the warm welcome! I enjoyed meeting Abe Chang, Erica, Priscilla, Lizzette, Tricia, Donna, Ana, Ellen, Marian, Erin, Sarah, Lorna, Lisa, Janna, Ronnie, Layna, Alycia, Ari, Nicci, Susan, Leah, Tori, Richard and more!
May 4, 2024
Brook Hollow Winery book signing
Thank you, Roz Lee, for this wonderful book event! I enjoyed seeing Debbie, Nancy & Gary Frank, Heather, Rebecka, Melanie, Emma, Meaghan, Leonardo, Rachel, Hailey & Sam, Corinne and Dawn, Morgan and Chrissy, Becky, Amanda and Darlene, Mikaelah, Donnamarie, Desiree, Lourdes and more!
May 1, 2024
Wayne Public Library Book Club 20th Anniversary
Thank you, Janette Pardo and Rose Jacobs, for this wonderful celebration! I enjoyed hearing from Bobbi S, Anna Marie, Janet, Laure, Beth, Noreen, Julia, and Cindy that the Wayne Library Book Club loved Goodbye Orchid.
“Goodbye, Orchid was unputdownable. I stayed up until 2am reading the story until the end!” – Beth M and Bobbi S, Wayne Public Library Book Club
aPr 29, 2024
Chapter One Book Signing to support Deirdre’s House
book signing to fundraise for child abuse prevention month. Thank you, Sophie, Stephanie Caravela, Maria Savettiere, and the whole Deirdre’s house staff!
aPr 6, 2024
YogaSix 2nd Anniversary Celebration
book signing to support yoga six!
Mar 14, 2024
WFMZ 69 News at Sunrise with Eve Russo
She’s a New Jersey mom, wife, executive, and award-winning author. In fact, her latest book was named one of “Seven reads you won’t be able to put down” by Woman’s World. So, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re excited to introduce you to Carol Van Den Hende.
Mar 13, 2024
West Morris Junior Women’s Club
I enjoyed spring into success, a Wonderful community event!
Mar 9, 2024
Barnes & Noble Easton PA
Thank you Ron Evans and the whole staff for hosting me in your beautiful store!
March 5, 2024
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Thank you, Betty and the whole OLLI group for hosting me to discuss the Goodbye Orchid series!
Book club leader Betty Hunt Koval says “The Orchid trilogy….will tear at your heart strings. I learned so much about limb loss from reading these books. WHAT AN AMAZING STORY WITH SUCH DEPTH of COMPASSION AND UNDERSTANDING!”
Feb 10, 2024
Barnes & Noble Paramus NJ
Thank you, Laura, Kate and the whole staff for hosting me in your beautiful store!
Jan 21, 2024
Buffalo Street Books
Thank you, Nora Marcus-Hecht and Alba, for hosting me for a book signing in your ithaca store!
Jan 12-14, 2024
Pulpwood Queens June 2024 Book-of-the-Month
Thank you, Kathy L. Murphy, for selecting always orchid as a 2024 book-of-the-month!
Dec 10, 2023
Barnes & Noble Bethlehem/Easton
Thank you Ron, Stan, B&N Easton staff, and readers for a fun holiday book signing!
Dec 5, 2023
Mendham Borough Library
Thank you kimberley ash, Mendham Library, and reader friends, for joining a fun author talk and book signing!
nov 18, 2023
Whitespace Gallery Hackettstown NJ
Thank you Roni Denholtz for organizing this special art gallery book signing. Great seeing jennifer wilck Elizabeth John Roz Lee D.V. Stone JB Schroeder Judy Kentrus Tina Gallagher Andrew Grey
nov 18, 2023
NJRW workshop
Thank you Miriam Allenson for inviting me to speak about “Presence Persuasion and Planning: Pitching your book to Readers”
nov 17, 2023
Literary Libationists Totowa NJ
Thank you, American Legion Totowa, Tracy Francese, Fran Pritchard, Sumana, Joan Nixon, Patti Sesso, Sean Hopkins and everyone for letting me know that you loved and learned from Always Orchid!
Oct 29, 2023
Barnes & Noble Bethlehem Easton PA
Thank you, Barnes & Noble readers Michael, Amanda, Cambria, Colleen, Jeff, Chris, Melissa, Adam, Ace, Ann, Jocelyne, Sharon, Tiffani, Robin, Kendra, Brownie, Adalynn, Jillian, Denise, Agnes, MaryJo, Isabel and more!
Oct 25, 2023
Chester Public Library
Thank you, Kim Harwanko, for inviting me to celebrate the launch of Always Orchid with the Chester Lioness Group, Joyce Casiello, Tobi, Pippa, Leaann, Jeff, Anya and more!
Oct 24, 2023
In Conversation with Rebecca Rosenberg
Thank you, Rebecca Rosenberg, for celebrating the launch of Always Orchid with Novel Network and me!
Oct 24, 2023
Sparta Books
Thank you, Sparta Books’ Jenn Carlson, Linda Schurmann, Kelly Lucadamo, for hosting me on Always Orchid’s Pub Day. I loved signing books for Nicole, Lynn Tremper Scott, Faith Alison Vohden, Richard Vohden, Vesna Grosin-Dan, Nadine Dandorf, and the Sparta Book Club!
Oct 21, 2023
Thunder Road Books
Thank you, General Manager Kate C (@thesaltybookworm), for inviting me to celebrate the launch of Always Orchid!
Oct 20, 2023
In Conversation with Meredith Stoddard
Thank you, Bookish Road Trip, for inviting me to celebrate the launch of Always Orchid!
Oct 18, 2023
Literary Libationists at Uncorked Wine Lounge
Thank you, Uncorked Lounge and Tracy Francese, for inviting me to celebrate the launch of Always Orchid!
Oct 17, 2023
West Caldwell Public Library
Thank you, alexis prussack-martin, for inviting me to my hometown library!
Oct 16, 2023
In Conversation with Tina Hogan Grant
Congrats to Tina on her series finale, releasing in the same month as Always Orchid!
Oct 7, 2023
Morristown Festival of Books
It was a joy to catch up with Fiona Davis, to meet Carol Fitzgerald and to interview Mary Beth Keane and Laura Spence-Ash. Thank you to Sparta Books for a well-run author signing, and to the Board, donors and volunteers for an incredible 10th anniversary festival.
I’m appreciative that friends came by to enjoy my panel with Laura and MaryBeth, such as Julie Maloney Melissa Young Joanne Flynn Black Debbi Pollinger Dolce and more!
August 28, 2023
KG Book Club
Thank you for hosting me again, Eileen O Sullivan and Marci Ober Wolff!
August 24, 2023
Novel Network Pitchfest
Thank you for hosting us, Susan McBeth, Debbie Harpham and Sara C!
August 23, 2023
Caldwell Public Library & Marian Manor
Thank you for hosting me, Fran Larkey and Lisa Schoenherr!
August 5, 2023
Wayne Public Library
Thank you for hosting us, Janette Pardo and Wayne PL!
July 18, 2023
Bermuda Book Club
Thank you for hosting me, Rebecca Roberts, Michelle, Natalie, Maria, Marilyn, Carol and Nolan!
June 28, 2023
Nobody Reads Short Stories
“You hit a home run.” -Lex Gillette, World Record Holder, Paralympian, Speaker
June 21, 2023
Trend Hunter Future Fest NYC
“Thank you for bringing your expertise and sharing your light to inspire others.” -Derya Turan, Trend Hunter
June 14, 2023
Consumer Goods Technology League of Leaders
“You were so articulate and driven in your approach to sustainability and where we need to head in our conversations…as we think about a true North Star. Thank you for your guidance” -Amanda Jones, Senior Vice President for Thinx
June 11, 2023
WordSleuth Interview
it was an honor to interview jeannee sacken, with sarena straus, as part of @wordsleuth’s pass-the-baton series. Thanks to annie mcdonnell for introducing us, and ibpa for connecting sarena and i.
June 10, 2023
Passaic County Book Festival
Wonderful book festival sponsored by paterson public library and publishing panel facilitated by shabree henry (from manuscript to bookshelf). Thanks to sean hopkins, joan nixon and tracy francese for coming to visit and the readers who bought all my paperbacks!
June 6, 2023
Pulpwood Queen June International Book of the Month
Pulpwood queen kathy l. murphy outdid herself with a wonderful orchid-themed interview and painting inspired by my goodbye, orchid series. she even chose always orchid as one of her 2024 books of the month!
June 3, 2023
Harmony Brookside Author Signing
Thank you for hosting ella slayne. Great seeing kimberley ash, larry walsh, nadja springer, maryanne mistretta-christiano, edwin aponte, anthony, marissa, amalia, melissa rawley-payne, melanie tweedie, celia green, sylvia jorgenson, kristina pasko and many more!
May 30, 2023
Rockin’ Readers Brandon MS Pulpwood Queens
A wonderful evening with Karen Reed, Gloria Harvey, GiGi Sinyard, Nancy Branton and the rest of the Rockin’ readers!
The book club even prepared ORCHID BLOOMING inspired food!
May 13, 2023
Hasty Booklist
Books by Asian American Pacific Islander authors out this year
Thank you, Ashley Hasty PhD, for including ALWAYS ORCHID in this esteemed list
May 6, 2023
IBPA 40th Anniversary Conference
Innovative Publishing models panel
It was a joy and honor to speak alongside Brooker Warner, Jared Kuritz, Thad McIlroy about publishing models. Attendees said they were inspired to hear about B Corps (more info in my interview, here).
May 4, 2023
Bookish NetGalley Interview and Cover Reveal
behind-the-scenes of book cover design (click for interview)
Designer: Sarah Flood-Baumann; Graphic: Alt19 Creative (Stephanie Anderson)
May 4, 2023
Bay Books Coronado, CA
Sold out book signing
Thanks to Maria, Gina, Nancy and all the readers who came and bought 100% of the store’s copies of Goodbye, Orchid and Orchid Blooming!
May 2 and 9, 2023
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Panel
Mars Snacking HQ Newark NJ
April 30, 2023
Brook Hollow Winery Book Signing
Columbia, NJ
April 23, 2023
Literary Libationists Book Club
uncorked lounge totowa, nj
April 18, 2023
Lake Forest Book Club
lake forest, IL
April 13, 2023
Peninsula Book Club
Rehoboth, DE
April 1, 2023
Liberty States Fiction Writers’ Conference & Book Fair
What is author brand and why readers care
March 25, 2023
Golden States Romance Writers
5 principles to spark brilliant cover design
March 23, 2023
West Morris Junior Women’s Spring into Success
Thank you to Holly, Melissa, Liza, Lauren and all the volunteers and readers!
March 20, 2023
Tina Hogan Grant interview
great Orchid Blooming discussion with author Tina hogan grant
March 9, 2023
Summit NJ Book Club
great Orchid Blooming discussion with Marian Davies, Lisa, Kara, Marie-France, Traci, Leigh, Dominique, Dawn
March 6, 2023
Leonia Public Library panel
Discussion with Ruth A. Casie, Miriam Allenson, Tracey lyons, moderated by terri brisbin
Feb 28, 2023
Red Penguin Books Launchpad: Countdown to Writing Your Book
#1 Amazon New Release in Fiction Writing Reference
Feb 18, 2023
Barnes & Noble Kahului, Hawaii
Book signing
Feb 12, 2023
Brook Hollow Winery
Valentine’s day book signing
Feb 9, 2023
L.A. Talk Radio
Interview with Jim Bell & Bobbi Jean Bell
Jan 16, 2023
The Storytellers
Jan 14, 2023
The Pulpwood Queens “East Meets West” panel
Dec 18, 2022
Buffalo Street Books
Wonderful book signing at Buffalo Street Books. I met lovely readers and sold out of Orchid Blooming and Goodbye Orchid! Here’s a selfie with one of my favorite books!
Nov 19, 2022
Golden States Romance Writers
Thanks to Morgan Moore for inviting me to present this foundational workshop!
Nov 12, 2022
Bookycon Mega Metaverse Conference
Thanks to Nicole Talbott, brant menswar and the readers who joined for a great interview!
Nov 5, 2022
Virginia Romance Writers
Brand land: what is author brand and why readers care
Thanks to Moni Boyce, Kathryn Murphy and the VRW Chapter for a great session!
Nov 1, 2022
Parsippany Public Library
Thanks to Jean-Marie, Dee Ernst, Kimberley Ash and the Parsippany Public Library for a fun event!
Oct 15, 2022
Hoboken Book Festival: Author Talk and Book Signing
Thanks to Ethan, Julie Pu and the Hoboken Public Library for a fun event!
Oct 8, 2022
ASCEND-NJ Inspiring Across Generations Conference
Thanks to Sandip Mehta, Alok Goel and Helen Ahn for welcoming me and Sabahat Khan to speak on the Belonging panel. It was inspiring to share examples of creating space for belonging at work and personally; how intersectionality can amplify our voice; and both challenges and enablers to creating space for inclusion.
Oct 6, 2022
In conversation with Main Street Reads
You continue to be a rockstar 🙂
Love and hugs,
Shari
Oct 2, 2022
Barnes & Noble Bethlehem / Easton PA
Oct 1, 2022
Liberty States Fiction Writers
Sept 30, 2022
Bridgewater Book Club
Sept 24, 2022
Barnes & Noble St Pete’s Beach Fl
Sept 22-23, 2022
Novelists Inc Conference
Sept 10, 2022
Thunder Road Books launch party
September – October, 2022 (Various times)
Podcasts, Interviews and more:
Storyblender with Steven James 9/20 12pm
Rockin Book Reviews
KOBO Writing Life 9/6 1.30pm ET
DIYMFA podcast 9/1 3pm
Human Potential@Work 9/8 12pm
She’s Invincible
Story Hour 9/8 4pm
Desideratum 8/30 6pm
Boonton Library Tea Time
Overflowing Bookshelves/Thriving Authors 9/15 4:30pm
Remembering Shanghai blog 9/13
Books Live Forever 9/7
Arell’s Angels FB Group 9/18 7pm
Bookycall launch 8/31
WriteOn! September Spotlight
Steve Sears journalist Mid-Oct
The Storytellers (Dec 12 2022)
IngramSpark Beach Reads Insta
In conversation with hosts Steven James, LuAnn Worley, Rachel Wharton, Lori Walker, Debra Ruh, Kamie Lehman, Kathy Ramsperger, Theresa Bakken, Lotte Newlin, Dallas Woodburn, Claire Chao, Arell Rivers, Grace Sammon and more!
Join me on my launch tour as we discuss extending Goodbye, Orchid into a trilogy, the good/bad/ugly in launching a B Corps (benefits corporation), and how fiction can shine a light on disability awareness. These podcasts and events are captured in the Orchid Blooming media kit!
Sept 8, 2022
Adventures by the Book Fireside chat
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOEd_TqIk1E
Sept 7, 2022
Happy to Help Podcast
Sept 1, 2022
Hasty Book List
Aug 29, 2022
Veterans Breakfast Club
In conversation with Executive Director Todd dePastino. It was an honor to share the story of Orchid Blooming with veterans
June 11, 2022
Warren County Parkfest @ Breadlock Park
Bread Lock Park 2627 Rt 57 Stewartsville, NJ 08886
June 4, 2022
Passaic County Book Fair
Novel Thoughts: Fiction Writers Talk about their Inspiration with Aleks Brittain, Youth Services Librarian Ringwood Library
Get to Know the Author: Carol Van Den Hende in conversation with Eleana Cordova, Wayne Public Library Adult Reference and Interlibrary Loan Librarian
June 3, 2022
I Love 2 Read Literacy Festival
GOODBYE, ORCHID “Word is Lit” and “Reading is Believing” author readings
May 21, 2022
Women Who Write Annual Conference
“How to be interviewed for the media and podcasts”
May 17, 2022
Pulpwood Queens Bonus Book-of-the-Month: Goodbye, Orchid
Excited for the next two books in the Orchid trilogy. I appreciate the thought in your choices—down to the naming of your characters. These are the details that weave magic, and add power to the story.” – Barbara Newman, award-winning authorApril 21, 2022
Independent Book Publisher’s Association Publishing University
March 26, 2022
Lehigh Valley Book Festival
March 15, 2022
Lake Forest Book Club
March 9, 2022
Peninsula Book Club
February 26, 2022
Thunder Road Bookstore
February 14, 2022
Veterans Breakfast Club
January 13, 2022
Adventures by the Book and Wisconsin Public Library
January 8, 2022
Washington D.C. RW
January 5, 2022
Bookends Review Interview with Editor-in-Chief
December 7, 2021
International Writers’ Network Dublin Ireland Near 90.3FM
Nov 20, 2021
RWA Annual Conference
Nov 13, 2021
Boonton Books & Beyond Festival
Nov 6, 2021
Liberty States Fiction Writers Conference
Oct 4, 2021
Zibby Books launch and awards event
Oct 2, 2021
Hoboken Public Library Booktoberfest
Sept 11, 2021
Brand Land: What is Personal Brand & Why Readers Care
aug 7, 2021
Brand Land: What is Personal Brand & How to Craft Yours
june 29, 2021
Personal Brand and How to Craft Yours
may 15, 2021
Women Who Write 10th Annual Conference
may 7, 2021
Junior League of Morristown Luncheon with Authors
April 17, 2021
California Writing Club
february 10 and 20, 2021
The Second Line show with Nola Nash and Write Review interview with Annie McDonnell, JD & Lorie Bridges
febryary 14, 2021
Valentine’s Day celebration
january 26 and Feb 3, 2021
Book Stores: Bethany Beach and Hockessin Book Shop
january 11-12, 2021
“Book Clubs: KG Survival Group and Sparta Book Club”
Virtual
january 4, 2021
“The Hidden Why Interview with Leigh Martinuzzi”
Podcast
December 29, 2020
“National Hero Day” Interview with Bronze Star of Valor combat-decorated Doc Jacobs
FB Live – click to view
DECEMBER 16, 2020
“WWW Goodbye, Orchid Book Club”
Women Who Write
DECEMBER 11, 2020
“Tea and Conversation with Cary Memorial Library”
Cary Memorial Library
Fun chatting about the inspiration behind Goodbye, Orchid, the writing process and what’s next.
“Now I can’t wait to read this!” – Christine.
DECEMBER 8, 2020
“Harness your Marketing Mindset Superpowers & Craft Marketing Plans like an Author-preneur”
International Womens’ Writing Guild
After this double-header 3-hour hands-on workshop, authors left with a plan, and felt more confident to market like a pro.
“Inspiring and motivating. Wheels turning”
“I feel that I have a plan now”
“Extremely helpful. I feel excited and ready to face marketing.”
“Thanks, Carol, so informative and inspiring.”
“Thanks, Carol! Very well done!” Details Here
DECEMBER 4, 2020
“The Joan Hamburg Show” Interview with the First Lady of Radio
WABC Radio
Joan shares her thoughts on Goodbye, Orchid and asks Carol about her Chinese-American background The Joan Hamburg Show
“Publish This! Over Lunch” Interview with David LeGere
Podcast
Carol and Dave discuss what’s inspiring in the literary world, how we source ideas from our own experiences…and not, and how Goodbye, Orchid can inspire optimism and empathy . Click here to listen: https://www.instagram.com/woodhallpress/OCTOBER 27, 2020
International Women’s Writing Guild
Millennial Seminar
Millennials: Applying Generational Insights to writing
“DIYMFA” Podcast Interview with Gabriela Pereira
Podcast
Virtual Event Gabriela Pereira and I discuss the three pillars of author marketing, and how Koehler Books and I applied these principles to launch award-winning Goodbye Orchid. https://diymfa.com/328SEPTEMBER 29, 2020
In Conversation with [words] bookstore
Maplewood, NJ
[words] bookstore hosts Carol to discuss Goodbye Orchid. Words Bookstore event
SEPTEMBER 21, 2020
“She’s Invincible” Podcast Interview with Kamie Lehmann
Podcast
Virtual Event
Carol will be featured on Kamie Lehmann’s entrepreneur podcast, “She’s Invincible” on September 21st. Click here to subscribe to the podcast and listen: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/shes-invincible/id1500146975
SEPT-OCTOBER, 2020
Interviews with Jen Lowry, Cari Marquette, John Raab, Jeff Ayers, Steven James, Dorris Burch, r.r. campbell
Podcasts
Discussing award-winning Goodbye Orchid with
Sept 18 Steven James The Storyblender Podcast
Sept 19 Jen Lowry Youtube Interview
Sept 23 Cari Marquette Homemade Sidedgig Podcast
Sept 30 Dorris Burch New Fab You Podcast
Oct 16 r.r. campbell Writescast podcast
Oct 17 John Raab, Jeff Ayers Suspense Magazine interview
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
Carol VanDenHende and Caroline Leavitt Launch Party
Mendham Borough Library
Launch event with New York Times best-selling author Caroline Leavitt
Caroline loves Goodbye, Orchid and says “What do we really owe the ones we love? How far will we go to protect ourselves at the cost of a relationship? When a traumatic accident near-tragically derails a man’s life, can he dare to trust that the woman he adores will stick by him, despite all he’s hidden from her? A richly detailed story of star-crossed lovers that we root for, all told with unforgettable heart and insight.”
—Caroline Leavitt, New York Times Bestselling author of Pictures of You, Cruel Beautiful World and With or Without You
SEPTEMBER 9, 2020
In Conversation with Shari Stauch
“Main Street Reads”
SEPTEMBER 9, 2020
World Premiere “Wine and Words: Passion to Reality”
“Mendham TV”
AUGUST 12, 2020
Polka Dot Powerhouse
“Ben Salem Chapter”
Guest speaker: reinvention over three careers
june 6, 2020
Rutgers Writers Conference (COVID cancelled)
“Marketing as Mindset”
New Brunswick, NJ
april 24, 2020
NECRWA Annual Conference (COVID cancelled)
“Brand Land: What is Author Brand and Why Readers Care”
Boston MA
april 4, 2020
Liberty States Fiction Writers Annual Conference (COVID cancelled)
“Design as Art: 5 Principles of Assessing Book Cover Design”
Clark NJ
NOVEMBER 2, 2019
Valley Forge Romance Writers
“Craft Marketing Plans Like an Authorpreneur”
Montgomery County Community College, Blue Bell PA
OCTOBER 19, 2019
Put Your Heart in a Book Conference
“Marketing as Mindset”
Renaissance Woodbridge Iselin NJ
JUNE 5, 2019
Kimberley Ash “Forget Me” Book Launch
Mendham Boro Library, Mendham NJ
Enjoy a fun-filled, lively evening as Kimberley discusses her background, her books, and her process with Carol Van Den Hende. Wine and light refreshments, as featured in her book “Forget Me,” will be served.
MAY 18, 2019
NJ Romance Writers
“Marketing as Mindset”
Sheraton Edison Hotel, Edison NJ
To market your work, you need an author brand, visual identity and well-crafted marketing plans. After the hard work of writing a book, why do these marketing tasks seem daunting? Come to this workshop to learn from 20+ Years of marketing and strategy experience. Find out why marketing isn’t manipulation. Overcome the most common marketing blockers using four simple mindset shifts. Join us to experience why authors say “You inspire me and fire me up every time!”
MARCH 30-31, 2019
Liberty States Fiction Writers’ 10th Annual Conference
Renaissance Woodbridge Iselin NJ
BRAND LAND: Applying Best Practices in Branding to your Writing Career
In this fun, fast-paced session, Carol will demystify what an author brand is. You’ll learn why branding is important, how to define your own brand, and the most important principle when translating your brand into a visual world (hint: think consistency!)
Chocolate and Books from Around the World
Come take a trip with your favorite stories from around the world and beyond, with chocolate and treats to accompany your visit.
Travel from Italy to France, China and even beyond the stars by exploring favorites like Da Vinci Code, Toujours Provence to newer titles like Crazy Rich Asians and The Martian…
in a multi-media experience accompanied by Italian desserts, chocolate croissants, Chinese candies and MILKY WAY Bars!
NOVEMBER 27, 2018
Sisters-in-Crime
“Applying Best Practices in Branding to Your Writing Career”
6:00-8:00 PM | The Jefferson Market Library 425 Avenue of the Americas (6th Ave. at 10th Street) New York, NY
What’s more mysterious than marketing yourself as an author? In today’s busy world, attention spans have dropped and it’s tough to break through. So what’s one way to make every marketing investment work harder? Know your brand, translate it into a visual identity and keep the key aspects consistent over time. In this fun, fast-paced workshop, you’ll learn why brand is important, how to use professional marketing tools to define your brand, and the most important portions to keep consistent. means to have an author brand, how it’s much more than a logo and web presence, and why it’s foundationally important to do the thinking behind what you want to stand for. We’ll discuss how to apply archetypes to define your unique brand and the components of an author’s brand framework. We’ll also romp through some real-life examples to show the importance of consistency in visual branding.
SATURDAY: OCTOBER 13, 2018
Marisa Corvisiero, Esq of Corvisiero Agency Author-preneur Conference
“Building an Author Platform & Brand: Marketing Books”
Oyster Point Hotel Red Bank, NJ
This presentation will cover the essentials of building and growing a platform and marketing books; what is a platform, who needs one and why, with a focus on branding and promoting. As the necessity for author platforms continues to grow, our goal is to help Authors be able to bring their projects to their readers and increase their visibility so that they sell more books and continue to reach new readers.
AUGUST 10-12, 2018
Writer’s Digest Annual Conference
“Millennials: Applying Generational Insights to Your Writing” and “Applying Best Practices in Design to Your Book Covers”
New York Hilton; New York, NY.
Writing Tips from Writer’s Digest Conference, including: “Be a great collaborator if you are working with a designer. Knowing what you want helps you determine whether you like the design you get and work with the designer to achieve a shared objective.” – Carol Van Den Hende
JUNE 16, 2018
NJ Romance Writers’ Workshop
“Craft Your Marketing Plans like a Pro!”
General Meeting begins at 10.30 AM | Renaissance Woodbridge, Iselin NJ.
JUNE 10, 2018
Women Who Write Workshop
“Craft Your Marketing Plans like an Authorpreneur!”
1;30 – 3:00 PM | New Providence Library; New Providence, NJ
JUNE 2-3, 2018
NJ-SCBWI Annual Conference
“Applying Best Practices in Branding to Your Writing Career”
Hyatt Regency; New Brunswick, NJ
OCTOBER 21, 2017
Women Who Write Opening Keynote Address
“Applying Best Practices in Branding to Your Writing Career”
Madison Community House, Madison NJ
OCTOBER 14, 2017
NJRW Put Your Heart in a Book Annual Conference
“Millennials: Applying Generational Insights to Your Writing”
Renaissance Woodbridge, Iselin NJ
SEPTEMBER 9, 2017
Valley Forge Writers Group Workshop
“Applying Best Practices in Design to Your Book Covers”
Montgomery County Community College Blue Bell, PA
AUGUST 18, 2017
Writer’s Digest Annual Conference
“Applying Best Practices in Branding to Your Writing Career”
Hilton New York Midtown New York, NY
MAY 6, 2017
Women Who Write Published Authors Network
“Applying Best Practices in Design to Your Book Covers”
New Providence Library New Providence, NJ
FEBRUARY 18, 2017
NJ Romance Writers Workshops
“Millennials: Applying Generational Insights to Your Writing” and “Design Thinking”
Renaissance Woodbridge Iselin, NJ
OCTOBER 15, 2016
NJRW Put Your Heart in a Book Annual Conference
“Design as Art: 5 Professional Principles of Book Cover Design”
Renaissance Woodbridge Iselin, NJ
SEPTEMBER 10, 2016
Women Who Write Published Authors Network
“Apply Professional Branding Frameworks to Your Brand as an Author”
New Providence Library New Providence, NJ
OCTOBER 17, 2015
NJRW Put Your Heart in a Book Annual Conference
“Apply Professional Branding Frameworks to Your Brand as an Author”
Renaissance Woodbridge Iselin, NJ
JANUARY 17, 2015
NJ Romance Writer’s Workshop
“Design as Art: 5 Professional Principles of Book Cover Design”
Woodbridge Hilton Woodbridge, NJ
NOVEMBER 15, 2014
NJ Romance Writer’s Workshop
“*YOU* as Brand: Applying Professional Frameworks to Your Brand as an Author”
Woodbridge Hilton Woodbridge, NJ
Sign up for book or speaking news from Carol!
Author and speaking news right to your inbox
