Colleen Oakley

Colleen Oakley is an Atlanta-based writer. Her articles, essays, and interviews have been featured in the New York Times, Ladies’ Home Journal, Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Redbook, Parade, and Martha Stewart Weddings. Before she was a freelance writer, Colleen was editor-in-chief of Women’s Health & Fitness and senior editor at Marie Claire.

Before I Go is her debut novel.

Recently I asked Oakley about what she was reading. Her reply:

I just finished Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty. I loved The Husband’s Secret, but I think I liked this one even more. Moriarty has a real gift for her wry observation of human nature in current society. As a parent, I completely related, cringing and laughing in turns, at the various parents I recognized from my own social circle. But the best part about her writing is that she never slips into stereotypes— each character is fully realized as a three-dimensional person that you can empathize with — they’re never just heroes or villains. Oh, and her plotting! Genius. Always keeps you guessing and flying through the pages. Can’t wait for her next one.

I just started The Good Girl by Mary Kubica. It’s everything I look for in a good mystery so far— engrossing, puzzling, intriguing. In fact, I’m looking for snippets of time throughout my day (kids, don’t you want to watch Sesame Street?) to sneak in some reading. When a book turns you into a bad parent — that’s when you know it’s got you hooked.

Visit Colleen Oakley's website, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

The Page 69 Test: Before I Go.

--Marshal Zeringue