Ladder to the Stars

The Story Behind Ladder to the Stars — A Contemporary Romance About Love, Healing, and Second Chances

Sometimes stories don’t arrive fully formed.


They appear quietly — in ordinary moments — and wait to see if you’ll notice them.

That’s exactly how my contemporary romance novel, Ladder to the Stars, began.

I was standing at my kitchen window one evening, looking out toward the house behind mine. There’s a boat perched on top of a shed — unusual enough — but that wasn’t what caught my attention. It was the ladder beside it.

It seemed to lean against nothing at all, as if held in place by fresh air. The sky was darkening, the stars beginning to twinkle, and a thought surfaced:

“It’s a ladder to the stars.”

I wrote the words down — and kept writing.

With no outline and no plan, I followed the story wherever it led. Three months later, in December 2024, I had completed a 56,000-word manuscript — now my second published romance novel, this one edited by Shaun Hand.

At first, I wasn’t sure I would publish it. It had begun as a fleeting moment of inspiration — something small and unexpected. But stories deserve readers, not folders on a computer.

So I chose to share it.

And Ladder to the Stars became an uplifting romantic comedy about rediscovery, creativity, and the courage to open your heart again.


About the Book

A Heart-Warming Romantic Comedy About Love, Art, and New Beginnings

When life falls apart, sometimes you have to climb higher.

After losing her solicitor’s job, Bell returns to her first love — painting. While walking through the woods, she finds a ladder leaning against a tree. Curiosity draws her upward, where she paints a breathtaking view that changes her life forever.

Luke, healing from a difficult divorce, climbs the same ladder only to discover Bell in his hidden sanctuary — a bench tucked high among the branches.

Their connection is instant. Powerful. Unexpected.

But both carry pasts they’d rather keep private.

Through creativity, shared experiences, community, and honesty, they begin to rebuild their lives — navigating:

  • emotional setbacks and reconciliations
  • personal secrets
  • creative ambitions
  • surprising twists
  • and the vulnerability required for a real connection

From woodland escapes to art exhibitions, travel, and celebrations, this feel-good romance blends humour, heart, and emotional depth in a story about second chances and self-discovery.


Why Readers Connect with Ladder to the Stars

  • Relatable characters rebuilding after life disruptions
  • A creative, resilient female lead
  • Slow-burn romantic chemistry
  • Cosy escapist settings
  • A hopeful story about reinvention and healing

Perfect for readers searching for:

  • Contemporary romance novels
  • Romantic comedy books with heart
  • Second-chance love stories
  • Art-inspired fiction
  • Feel-good books that inspire and uplift

Ready to Climb the Ladder?

If you enjoy romantic comedies filled with warmth, humour, creativity, and emotional depth, Ladder to the Stars is waiting for you.

Don’t just read about second chances — experience one.

Buy your copy today and step into a story that will make you smile, reflect, and believe in new beginnings again.

👉 Discover Ladder to the Stars now
👉 Add it to your reading list or book club
👉 Share it with someone who loves uplifting romance

Because the right story at the right time can take you further than you ever imagined.

Start climbing.

Other romance books written by Lisa M Billlingham