Hello

I'm Karen, an Australian author of contemporary fiction.

I’m a book obsessed, sticky chai drinking writer who has copious notebooks around the house (some decades old) crammed with stories and ideas. Gradually they are finding their way to Scrivener to be shaped into gripping page-turners.

ABOUT

Escape. Enjoy. Feel.

Sweet Treats - Jellybeans

2026 Romance Writers of Australia Short Story Anthology

Jemmy Beans

By Karen Pleskus

Tropes:

Boy next door

Best friend's brother

Second chance

“When did Rae’s brother return from London, and how was he even hotter? Jemma opened her mouth and snapped it shut, a flood of painful memories tightening her chest.”

Diversions - Circles

2025 Romance Writers of Australia Short Story Anthology

Aura

By Karen Pleskus

Tropes:

“Jagged white lightning flashed behind her eyelids. A vice tightened around her head.

‘Zo?’ It was Aiden again, his voice soft. She swayed. Tears trickled down her cheeks. ‘I’ve got you.”

Friends to lovers

Slow burn

Chronic illness

Sweet Treats - Bubbles

2024 Romance Writers of Australia Short Story Anthology

The Bubble Specialist

By Karen Pleskus

Tropes:

Second chance

First love

Shared past

“Even as far away as he was, she knew the figure sitting in the middle of the boat. Actor, Blake Brogue. Spin-the-bottle. Her first kiss. Her first heartbreak.”

BOOKS

Judges' Feedback

Current Work-In-Progress

“The writer is able to draw the reader in and feel like they are a part of the story. The character growth is great and will (I am guessing) get better as the story develops."

"Am totally loving this story and can't wait to read more of it. The main characters are intriguing and well developed.”

"A compelling read - two well-drawn characters both with different objectives but linked. An original premise. Page-turny. Some terrific turns of phrase. Evocative setting descriptions."

"Congratulations on such a strong submission. I hope to see this published - I would definitely read it."