From Encouraging School Reports to Bestselling Author: Sophia Valentine’s Journey — UK, Ibiza & Dubai
Sophia Valentine—known on Instagram as @sincerelysophiav—has been enamored with storytelling ever since she could hold a pen. As a child in England, she was the kind of student whose English teachers praised her vivid imagination and creative flair. “Imaginative and creative,” they’d write on her school reports—words that hinted at a bright writing future ahead.
Her early love for reading and writing led her to collect books and spend hours in libraries. Captivated by stories of romance, crime, thriller, and suspense, Sophia’s childhood passion set the foundation for her adult life. Later on, she channeled that passion academically by studying English Literature at college. Those years sharpened her skills and deepened her appreciation for how stories work.
Law, Travel, Writing – A Journey in Many Chapters
Even with diplomas in English and Law, Sophia chose a different path. She spent several years working as a legal executive in England. But her heart was always with writing. In 2012, a nostalgic trip to Ibiza turned into a life-changing decision: she moved there and embraced her writing life while also having a full-time job. There, she also wrote for The Ibizan newspaper and survived on café culture, exploring and discovering the island, leading to midnight ideas.
With a renewed creative spirit, Sophia finally completed “The Black Door Trilogy.” She faced a familiar yet daunting reality: sending out countless queries, enduring rejections, and learning harsh publishing lessons. Still, she persevered—and received multiple offers, including from HarperCollins, one of the biggest publishers in the world. Wanting both print and e‑book availability, she signed with a U.S. publisher and saw the trilogy released in 2017.
Bestselling Success & Growing Legacy
Sophia’s debut novella, His Confession, soared to #1 in its Amazon category. The next two books in the trilogy landed in the Top 100. Overall, she now boasts ten published books and contributions to several anthologies. Her works are widely available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, iBooks, and Goodreads—amassing over 1,000 reviews.
Book signings have taken her from Birmingham and London to Blackpool. She’s known for her warm, engaging presence, often hugging fans who travel far to meet her. One reader even took a flight from Australia just to connect with Sophia in person.
Writing with Purpose & Process
Sophia’s novels exude drama, tension, and emotional depth. She owes this to her detailed planning process. Beginning with a compelling blurb, she meticulously builds character backstories, researches environments, and outlines chapters to ensure tight pacing and believable arcs. As she puts it, characters must have clear goals and obstacles—whether from others, inner demons, or plot twists.
For her, writing isn’t just about spinning plots—it’s about touching readers. Sophia aims to pull at hearts, provoke suspense, and make every scene unforgettable. She’s in no rush; multiple unfinished manuscripts on her laptop are proof that she prefers to polish rather than push out half-finished work.
Dubai: A New Chapter Full of Inspiration
In December 2021, Sophia began a new adventure—relocating to Dubai. Now in her fourth year in the UAE, she’s immersed herself in exploring futuristic architecture, local culture, and hidden gems. Her latest work reflects this love for the city: a comprehensive Dubai guidebook featuring her own photos, curated insights, and must-see spots for travelers and residents alike.
Alongside nonfiction, she continues working on fresh fiction projects. Dubai’s energy fuels her themes of discovery, culture shift, and vibrant settings—inviting readers to see the city through new eyes.
Perseverance Through Challenges
Sophia’s milestones didn’t come easy. Querying publishers and agents meant repeatedly facing rejection. She understands that rejection is part of the journey and encourages writers to stay persistent. Her mantra: keep applying, keep improving, and stay consistent with marketing efforts. She emphasizes that being an author isn’t just creating stories—it’s about long-term dedication to both craft and brand.
Writing Rituals & Creative Philosophy
Mornings begin with coffee, biscuits, a scroll through social media, and then working, and finding time to also write—daily. Ideas strike anywhere, so notepads are always by her side, often filling during moments of rest. She visualizes character voices—sometimes even hearing them in her head—and lets scenes flow organically, though always grounded in a rough outline.
Her advice to fellow writers? Never give up. Write, write, write. Get your manuscript in its best form.
Inspiration, Passion & Vision
Where does she draw inspiration? From everyday life: overheard dialogue, Netflix dramas, casual coffee-fueled chats, book covers, and everyday scenes spotted across the world. Sophia believes that writers with curious minds—those who tend to overthink—have the privilege of turning ideas into unlimited stories.
She dreams of more community-driven reading: book bars, cafés, lively reader-writer meetups—places where books don’t just exist, but connect people. With e‑books booming alongside physical copies, her hope is that reading will become more interactive and accessible.
Words of Wisdom & Lasting Impression
Sophia wants to be remembered for touching hearts, sparking imaginations, and encouraging others to chase their dreams. She believes in doing something joyful every day—whether it’s writing, exploring the outdoors, or connecting with readers. Her personal motto: “Time waits for no one. If you have a dream, pursue it! It’s better to regret the things you do than the things you don’t do.”
She urges anyone in doubt to keep going. In her words: “You can have excuses or results — not both.”
Current Projects & What Lies Ahead
- Dubai Guidebook: A labor of love featuring Sophia’s own photography, insider tips, and hidden gems.
- New Fiction: Several new novels in development—each infused with suspense, romance, and rich setting details.
- Global Connections: Expanding her presence through author signings, online events, and thematic partnerships in both fiction and travel.
Why Sophia Valentine Resonates
Sophia is more than an author—she’s a symbol of dedication, authenticity, and creative ambition. Her writing crosses genres, her processes are intentional, and her success is grounded in both talent and perseverance. She exemplifies what it means to follow your passion, even when the path has twists, turns, and the occasional rejection letter.
Her Instagram, @sincerelysophiav, gives followers a glimpse into her Dubai life—book setups, writing nooks, café adventures, travel moments—and her popular publication updates.
Final Thoughts
Sophia Valentine’s story reminds us that dreams don’t just arrive—they are earned through persistent effort, honest storytelling, and embracing every chapter life offers. From her early student accolades to traditional publishing success, from England and Ibiza to Dubai—she has redefined what success as an author can look like.
Her journey offers a blueprint for new and experienced writers alike: study your craft, market relentlessly, build community, and write with heart. Sophia has not only entertained and educated readers—she has inspired them to believe in themselves, take risks, and live with intention.
Photo Credit: Gregory Mason
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