November 26th marks a big milestone for me — my 50th birthday. I’ll admit, that number has been sitting with me in a strange way. There’s something about it that feels both heavy and profound. But instead of focusing on the number, I want to celebrate the journey that brought me here — and the art, family, and community that have shaped me along the way.

I’ve always been an artist. As a kid, I filled sketchbooks with drawings and painted anything I could get my hands on. Creativity was my language — the way I understood and expressed the world around me. In college, I discovered the magic of theatre and film, and that love carried me all the way to California after graduation. I chased stories on stage and on camera, learning what it meant to bring characters to life.

When my husband and I moved to Alabama in 2004, the curtain didn’t fall — it simply shifted. I found a vibrant theatre community here, both on and off the stage. And when film opportunities weren’t as accessible, writing became my new creative outlet. It started as a whisper — a need to tell stories — and grew into a lifelong passion.

Since publishing my first novel in 2012, I’ve written worlds born from imagination, heart, and a deep love for storytelling. Each book has been a reflection of my creativity — as an artist, as a dreamer, as a human being trying to make sense of the world. But none of it would have been possible without my family. Their love, patience, and unwavering support have carried me through every chapter. Being a wife and a mom are my greatest accomplishments — everything else, every creative endeavor, is built on that foundation of love.

And then, of course, there’s you — my readers. Your encouragement, your messages, your shared excitement about my books… my stories mean more to me than you could ever know. You’ve helped turn my art into something living, something shared.

So, to celebrate this milestone birthday and to give back a little of the joy you’ve given me, I’m hosting a Birthday Giveaway! 🎁

✨ Enter to win a signed copy of one of my books (U.S. entries only)! ✨

Here’s how to enter:

1. Leave a comment below — tell me your favorite birthday memory, your favorite book of mine, or simply say hello.
2. Fill out the short entry form (linked below) so I can contact the winner.

The giveaway will be open through November 30th, and I’ll announce the winner the first week of December.

As I step into this new decade, I’m choosing gratitude — for art, for stories, for family, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile. Thank you for being part of my creative journey. Here’s to the next chapter — one filled with courage, curiosity, and a whole lot of love. 💜

With gratitude,
Nina Soden
Author | Dreamer | Storyteller

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