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Red, Write & Blue

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Scarlett Lewis, successful writer of steamy cop romances, is in a rut. After a rough break-up, she just isn’t feeling the romance anymore. But her publisher isn’t having it; Scarlett is under contract, and has to deliver another bestseller.

Scarlett’s sister offers up her lavish mountain holiday home for a writing retreat, and Scarlett is happy to accept. What she hadn’t counted on was the local sheriff’s sergeant with blue eyes, dimples, and a sexy Texan drawl. Her sister’s unexpected arrival upends everything, and the sisters’ relationship begins to unravel.
Scarlett has to learn how to stand up for herself and be honest about who she is, even if it means risking losing the people whose love she craves the most.

Sergeant Kyle Martenson values honesty and the integrity of his uniform above all else. Ex-LAPD, he loves working in a small town. He is not that keen on tourists, and he certainly doesn’t date them. Particularly not if they’re fancy writers from the big city with snobby sisters, no matter how cute they are. No matter how many times they bombard him with baked goods. So how come he asked for her number?

Red, Write & Blue is a closed-door, sweet romantic farce set in a fictional town in north Idaho. It’s a laugh-out-loud story about serious things like choices, insecurities, and love. A must-read for fans of protective heroes, sizzling chemistry, and Happy Ever Afters.

461 pages, ebook

Published October 1, 2025

6 people want to read

About the author

Maria Yrsa Rönneus

9 books16 followers
Author of seven novels, graphic designer, and artist.

I write historical and contemporary fiction, short stories, and poetry, predominantly in English. A lifelong interest, historical accuracy is critical to me – the plot must work inside the facts. Lucky then, that the vast amount of research that precedes writing a historical novel is absolutely my idea of fun.

As an artist, I work mainly in watercolour, arranging exhibitions and participating in art fairs. As a graphic designer, I make websites and designs for any print media but, as an avid reader myself, book covers are the closest to my heart.

Though starting out with art school, I went on to study film, literature, logic, and philosophy at university. After a kaleidoscopic career, it was chronic illness that forced a plunge into creative professionalism. Being a romantic and terminal optimist with a fervent passion for science and satire, I have an irreverent urge to see the funny in most things. Perhaps then, it is no great surprise that Jane Austen is a favourite author.

Ars Rönnei Media is the label under which I gather words, paint, and pixels. My studio is located in Vittsjö in the south of Sweden. Here, my husband and I are fortunate that the magpies let us use their garden and we grow veg, roses, and dahlias in it.


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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
Profile Image for Katherine Benfante.
Author 5 books16 followers
September 8, 2025
I was already a fan of Rönneus' books, having read her entire historical fiction series and loved it, and now I'm a huge fan of her modern romance novels, too. Red, Write, & Blue was the most fun I've had reading in a long time. It's a cliche to say I couldn't put it down, but it's true; I was literally on a cruise and wanted to stay in our cabin just so I could read the next (and the next...) chapter! This story is addictive, fair warning.

Red, Write, & Blue starts with a meet-cute, and even though I saw it coming and was cringing at that cupcake smash right along with both Kyle and Scarlett, I whipped through the next pages, not wanting to wait to see if they could move past their initial irritation at each other and start letting the sparks fly. From that moment - well, before then, from the characters' introductions - I was hooked on the characters. Kyle and Scarlett are the kind of people you'd want to befriend; heck, you'd feel lucky if they befriended you! Despite both doing some stupid things - misunderstandings, getting tripped up by their own foibles - I loved them both, quirks and all. So when the book ended... yeah, I wish I had the sequel. (Will there be one??)

The characterization is the strongest part of this novel, so any reader who searches for character-driven stories, no matter the genre (romance is not the main genre I read, I'm very picky about the ones I read, and I adored this book), will be carried along by this book like I was, putting off everything else in life just to read "one more page." It isn't just the main characters but the supporting cast who round out this small town setting to make it come alive. I felt like I was right downtown with Scarlett and her friends. Every detail, without slowing down the narrative, is given with a flourish. That's the real treat, the cherry atop the cupcake in this case, of Rönneus' writing: her style and ability to tickle every sense without it sounding pretentious or overbearing. It never tries to hard and is simply beautiful language.

Finally, this is a romance novel, yes, and Kyle and Scarlett's story takes center stage in the action, but it's all framed within Scarlett's relationship with her sister Maddy. How they treat each other changes, and it's so relatable to any woman who has a sister. I felt just like Scarlett... I won't spoil it, but reading how she learned to see herself and treat herself is a lesson a lot of us can take to heart - and apply. This plot line makes the book so deep and well worth the read.
Profile Image for Jenn Romano.
13 reviews3 followers
September 4, 2025
I just finished 'Red, Write, & Blue' and adored it! What a fun story! That ending still has me smiling.

Scarlett, the protagonist, is so likable and relatable. The way she talks to her flowers and her book characters is great. The conflict with her sister is very believable, as is the fact that Kyle would find her so charming.

Kyle is a hero to adore. He's got a wonderful personality and a big heart. His menagerie was a great touch (love the animals!). He's like a real guy! You know how sometimes a romance author will make a hero and you're like "Why did she fall for this guy?" In contrast, he's swoon-worthy.

The secondary characters were also great. I love a good ensemble in a small town. Everyone had a personality and added to the story perfectly. I especially loved how you used them to make Kyle shine as a member of the community.

And that proposal!! Oh, my goodness! Just perfect for a romance author in her niche. The author thought of everything.
Profile Image for Mary Yarde.
Author 10 books163 followers
October 1, 2025
Scarlett Lewis, a celebrated romance author, has lost her creative spark. Struggling to finish her latest cop romance, she’s devastated when her manuscript is rejected. Her publisher, demanding joyful endings over dramatic twists, gives her one last chance to deliver a crowd-pleaser or risk losing her contract. The pressure is crushing, threatening her career and sense of self. As Scarlett navigates a troubled love life and waning confidence, she questions if she can still write a happy ending.

Another birthday, and Sergeant Kyle Martenson finds himself reflecting on his life and the fact that he still hasn’t encountered that special someone with whom he can imagine building a lasting commitment. For years, he has been searching for the right person—someone who could truly understand him and share his journey. That all changes when he meets Scarlett—an alluring woman who seems to embody everything he has ever wanted. From her infectious laughter to her adventurous spirit, she enchants him in ways he never thought possible.

Scarlett experiences a strong and undeniable attraction to Kyle, a feeling that sends her heart racing every time he’s near. Yet, when she overhears him disparaging her beloved books, a wave of apprehension washes over her. In that moment, she wrestles with the fear of revealing her true identity. If Kyle were to find out that she is actually Amaranth Ross—a name that carries both recognition and weight in the romance book world—how would he react? The risk isn’t just the loss of his affection; for Scarlett, it’s the potential confirmation that her work, and by extension herself, is unworthy of genuine love. Would the affection he seems to feel for her remain intact, or would it all vanish the moment he learns the truth, leaving Scarlett even more isolated and vulnerable?

"Red, Write & Blue" by Maria Yrsa Rönneus explores the triumphs and trials of love, the enduring ties of family, and the healing power of friendship.

Scarlett is a richly developed character whose flaws and insecurities make her relatable. After a tumultuous relationship marked by belittlement, she has lost confidence in herself and her ability to form meaningful connections with others. This loss is evident in her shyness, uncertainty, and frequent self-doubt. The fear of inadequacy creates a barrier between her and the authentic connections she seeks. Scarlett’s emotional depth draws readers into her journey. Her private moments at home, chatting animatedly to houseplants and finding humour amid adversity, reveal her quirky, lighthearted side. Her wit and sarcastic observations offer comic relief that contrasts with her inner turmoil. Through Scarlett’s story, Rönneus conveys the message of self-worth—emphasising the value in maintaining relationships that affirm rather than diminish the self. This exploration invites readers to reflect on their own worth and the significance of healthy connections.

Kyle is portrayed as a multi-dimensional character, balancing his police career with a gentle and caring nature, as shown through his bond with his cat, Sidney, and his waterfowl. A significant internal conflict arises as he contemplates ageing, relationships, and the meaning of his birthday, adding depth to his personality. Kyle’s likability is highlighted by his attractive demeanour and strong moral compass; he makes honourable choices reflecting his values. His patience, humour, and growing romantic interest in Scarlett create a compelling dynamic, making him an appealing romantic lead.

The story unfolds across two locations that vividly contrast each other: Scarlett’s bustling city apartment and her sister’s serene vacation home nestled in a picturesque lakeside town. The urban setting is alive with the sounds of non-stop noise, the endless banging of construction, and a palpable sense of confinement, where the hustle and bustle often leaves its residents feeling overwhelmed. Add to that the leery landlord, Scarlett’s world is anything but romantic. In contrast, the vacation home offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, where the gentle lapping of lake water and the rustling of leaves create a soothing atmosphere, allowing Scarlett to relax and reflect. Likewise, the narrative intricately details Kyle’s environment, marked by his expansive thirty-acre property. This sprawling land is dotted with a shimmering pond and an old gazebo that he has turned into a coop for his growing collection of domesticated waterfowl, all of which cultivate an air of rural tranquillity. This peaceful backdrop stands in stark contrast to Kyle’s demanding job as a police officer, highlighting the dualities within his character and life. The town of Lakepoint is painted with vivid imagery—maple trees lining the streets, vibrant cherry blossoms swaying in the breeze, and colourful petunias adorning the gardens. Each element contributes to the town’s idyllic charm, embodying the spirit of community and warmth. Joe’s bar exudes a friendly, small-town vibe where locals come to unwind and socialise. And the local bakery is described in such detail that the reader can almost taste the frosting on the cakes. The settings not only enhance the mood of the story but also serve as a canvas for the characters’ emotional journeys.

The descriptions in this novel are strikingly vivid and richly engaging, immersing the reader in a world filled with sensory experiences. Rönneus masterfully employs sensory details that enliven the narrative; for example, the warm, buttery aroma of lemon blondies baking in the oven wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a cosy blanket, while the lingering taste of wine tickles the palate and evokes memories of laughter-filled gatherings as well as solitude reflections. Moreover, the physical portrayals of the characters are intricately detailed, showcasing not just their physical attractiveness but also the nuances of their personalities. You can easily envision the way a character’s eyes sparkle with mischief or how the gentle curve of a smile reveals a kind-hearted spirit. Each character is imbued with distinct traits that resonate emotionally, making them feel not only tangible but also relatable. Through these careful descriptions, Rönneus breathes life into every moment, inviting readers to savour both the setting and the individuals who inhabit it.

The narrative is characterised by a conversational tone that balances humour with introspection, perfectly mirroring Scarlett’s vibrant personality and complex inner thoughts. This engaging and relatable voice draws readers in, making them feel intimately connected to Scarlett’s experiences and reflections. Throughout the story, Rönneus employs vivid descriptions that create striking visuals, alongside witty dialogue that captures the essence of the characters and their interactions. Pop culture references add a sense of familiarity, as does the annual memorial where the Syringa County first responders pay tribute to those who lost their lives on 9/11. This grounding in a contemporary context resonates with readers. In addition to its humour and sobriety, the writing is rich in sensory details and imagery, bringing scenes and characters to life and making each moment feel palpable and dynamic.

While Scarlett crafts mesmerising, steamy romance novels that ignite passion, Rönneus masterfully weaves a tender narrative that beautifully portrays the deepening bond between her main characters. Rönneus' storytelling is rich with emotion, allowing readers to feel the warmth and affection blossoming within the protagonist's relationship.

Maria Yrsa Rönneus’ “Red, Write & Blue” is an enthralling romance novel. In a beautifully rendered world, the story delves into longing, sacrifice, and the quest for happiness. This enchanting tale promises to resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with the complexities of the heart.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion
Profile Image for Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews.
2,923 reviews217 followers
December 17, 2025
This is a cute romance novel that will have you splitting a gut. 

While some of the novel is predictable, I enjoyed how the different parts of the story were woven together, addressing not only the romance but also the somewhat rocky relationship between sisters Scarlett and Maddy. 

Scarlett does seem a little lost, especially since her most recent book is not faring well with her publisher. Her view on love and relationships is jaded, and who can blame her after her past relationship imploded? However, a budding relationship with Kyle, after some missteps, puts her on the right path for her life.

I enjoyed the many witty barbs and the burgeoning relationship between Kyle and Scarlett. They both had some past baggage, but they worked well together, and their chemistry was enjoyable. Some friendships help Scarlett along the way.

All of the characters were multi-dimensional, and I can imagine a whole series set in this town with other characters in the forefront. 

This book was a quick read, but filled with engaging dialogue and fascinating characters. We give it 5 paws up.
Profile Image for Zenka.
Author 8 books4 followers
September 17, 2025
An enjoyable, cozy read, humorous and often vulnerable. Loveable characters - and some you may want to toss a cupcake at.
Hunky male lead.
Clumsy, hilarious female lead.
Set in a small town with a supporting cast of quirky, charming friends, a jealous rival, a joyfully chaotic hobby farm and a perfect little library.
The real world is messy and difficult. Sinking into a book like this feels like a bubble bath and a glass of wine. It's self care.
You deserve it.
Profile Image for Eva Chatterji.
Author 2 books4 followers
October 1, 2025
Maria Yrsa Rönneus has done it again! A beautifully written, heartfelt romance. The characters dance through the pages - (and sing) - romance is not dead, it just needed a clever writer to have us all snuggled down under our covers, grasping for cupcakes, as we allow ourselves to be whisked away into the magic of love.
Author 8 books12 followers
December 14, 2025
This is one of the most entertaining books I’ve read for a while. A comedy romance, it’s packed with stunning imagery, vibrant, often slightly wacky characters and humour so visual, at times it’s just about slapstick. A thoroughly relaxing read.
Profile Image for Catherine Arthur.
Author 5 books10 followers
October 29, 2025
Red, Write & Blue is a cosy romance filled with humour. The prose is delightful, the setting alive with detail, and the characters easy to like (or not in some cases!)

When Scarlett relocates to her sister’s country home in Idaho, she expects to find peace and quiet, a place where she can hone her next best seller. However, she cannot seem to find any inspiration. Until, that is, she literally bumps into a local police officer. Things seem to take a turn for the better, both in her romantic life and with her writing, but misunderstandings and gossip have a way of scuppering plans. It is not clear if this will be a heavenly happy ever after or a damp squib of a romance going nowhere.

Maria Yrsa Rönneus has a marvellous way with words, and has created characters with wonderful quirks, which lend much to the story, for none of them is perfect, even though some within the tale may want them to be!

Her well-researched descriptions of the small Idaho town, with its cafés and bars, and local community events, transport one to the setting. It is easy to get lost in the tale and imagine you are actually there with the players. The story flows along at a steady pace, and no scene is out of place or superfluous.

For any lover of romance, this book comes highly recommended. One not to miss.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews

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