Unveiling Carley Fortune's Approach to Well-being and Creative Process
In this comprehensive feature, we explore the multifaceted life of best-selling romance novelist Carley Fortune, delving into her personal philosophy on beauty, wellness, and the creative process that underpins her widely adored literary works. From her thoughtful integration of self-care into a demanding schedule to the profound influence of natural landscapes on her storytelling, Fortune offers an intimate glimpse into her world. Her narrative not only captivates readers with heartfelt emotional romances but also subtly champions a holistic approach to life, demonstrating how physical and mental well-being are intrinsically linked to creative output and personal fulfillment.
Carley Fortune, the acclaimed author based in Toronto, has captivated readers with her emotionally rich romance novels, including the New York Times bestsellers "Every Summer After," "Meet Me at the Lake," and "This Summer Will Be Different." Her latest release, "One Golden Summer," continues her tradition of compelling narratives, often set against picturesque natural backdrops. Fortune's novels are renowned for their masterful handling of second-chance romances, seamlessly weaving in themes of mental health, family dynamics, and grief with both elegance and sincerity, making them as comforting as they are profound. The profound connection to nature is a recurring motif in her stories, with settings frequently inspired by her childhood stomping grounds, such as Barry's Bay, Ontario, and the distinctive red cliffs of Prince Edward Island.
Fortune views beauty as an integral component of character development within her fictional worlds. She meticulously considers how characters interact with their hair and makeup, using these elements to reveal their inner lives and self-perception. For instance, in "Every Summer After," the character of Percy struggles with her hair, a reflection of universal experiences with self-image. Similarly, Alice in "One Golden Summer" uses hair and makeup as a means of boosting confidence and navigating her public persona, highlighting how external presentation can profoundly impact internal feelings and growth. Fortune herself embraces a minimalist approach to daily makeup, prioritizing skin health and finding joy in expressive elements like a bold red lip for special occasions. She acknowledges the learning curve involved in maintaining a polished look, especially after periods of less social interaction, but remains committed to the artistic expression that makeup affords.
Her writing environment is deeply tied to her creative flow. Fortune cherishes the tranquility of lakeside retreats, particularly her childhood home in Barry's Bay, where many of her initial book drafts come to life. The isolation and limited digital distractions in these natural settings foster a profound connection to her creativity. When not at the lake, she maintains a disciplined daily writing schedule from her home office, treating it like a standard workday with dedicated breaks for physical activity. This structured yet flexible approach allows her to balance her professional demands with her personal need for mental and physical rejuvenation.
Sun protection is a paramount concern for Fortune, particularly due to her experience with melasma. She diligently incorporates wide-brimmed hats and high-SPF tinted sunscreens into her lakeside essentials. Her skincare regimen, though extensive, is considered an investment in her well-being, even when it requires transporting numerous products to her remote writing havens. She advocates for robust hydration, relying on products like Dr. Jart+ hydrating masks and SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic drops, especially during dehydrating travel. Fortune also embraces natural skincare, praising Holistic Vanity's Barrier Balm for its soothing properties and Cellcosmet for its luxurious effectiveness. For an invigorating boost, she keeps Caudalie mist close at hand, appreciating its refreshing minty scent.
When it comes to personal fragrance, Fortune's journey has been uniquely shaped by her sensitivity to scents and a propensity for migraines. This led her on a quest for a fragrance that not only appealed to her preference for woody, leathery notes but also caused no adverse reactions. Her discovery of BDK Gris Charnel through Nose, a French company offering customized scent samples, marked a significant milestone. She considers a good fragrance a rare find and often compliments others on their chosen scents. Her preference for subtle, non-sweet aromas extends to her choice of candles, with Diptyque's woody Feu de Bois being a favorite for creating a comforting ambiance.
Physical activity is a non-negotiable aspect of Fortune's self-care routine, serving as a vital anchor for her mental health and creative clarity. Regular strength training sessions, guided by a personal trainer, address both current physical needs and preventative health, particularly concerning bone density. Running, though not a natural talent, offers a meditative escape, allowing her to disengage from constant mental activity. This dedication to fitness exemplifies her holistic approach to self-care, acknowledging the interplay between physical exertion and mental well-being.
Fortune's commitment to prioritizing self-care extends beyond physical routines to encompass emotional and mental resilience. She emphasizes the importance of pausing to acknowledge feelings, particularly during stressful periods, and the invaluable role of a strong support system. Her candid sharing of her postpartum experiences highlights the necessity of open communication and seeking professional help. She champions the proactive establishment of supportive networks and practices during times of ease, ensuring resources are in place when challenges inevitably arise. This proactive and self-aware approach underscores her belief that true self-care is about deep listening and continuous support, both internal and external.