A Bells & Becks woman is someone you know even without truly knowing her. She’s smart, savvy, put-together, accomplished—and doing it all with flair. These are the women we know, admire, and have in mind when we design. Featuring some of their stories here feels like the best way to celebrate all they’ve accomplished (plus, how they’re doing it with joy and great style). We hope they inspire you as much as they inspire us.
California might conjure images of sunny SoCal for many, but for Bay Area native Mara Williams, the towering redwoods and the cool beaches of Northern California beckon instead. No wonder her novels— “strong, messy women finding their way in the world”—are anchored in the natural beauty of her home base. Juggling a career as a writer with four children and a demanding day job is no joke, which is why Mara depends on lists to keep herself organized.Luckily she loves what she does. The best advice she ever received: “You’ll never learn to love a career just because it pays well. On the flip side, you will learn to resent your dream if it doesn’t pay you enough to live on. Find something that’s fulfilling enough to feed your soul but also pays the bills, and you can always pursue a passion on the side.”
Learn more about Mara’s beautifully crafted (and occasionally spicy!) novels filled with women navigating relationships, families, and the world around them. Plus, steal her tips on dressing to work from home and organizing a full life.
How would you describe yourself?
I am an author of book-club romantic fiction, centered on strong, messy women finding their way in the world. I released my debut novel, The Truth Is in the Detours, this summer, and my sophomore book, The Epicenter of Forever, is slated for release in early 2026. I also have a demanding day job in the social sector, four kids, and a very needy dog, so life is hectic. When I’m not working, writing, or reading, I’m typically enjoying California's beaches, redwoods, or hiking trails.
You released a debut novel this year! Tell us about it.
The Truth Is in the Detours is romantic book club fiction about a woman who finds out the mother she thought dead for decades may have been alive all along and drags her frustratingly attractive former friend on a road trip to find the truth. From desert highways to coastal bluffs, it’s a journey of reconciliation, revelation, and unexpected romance. Sometimes the scenic route is the only way to the truth.
We believe in the idea that if you want something done, ask a busy woman—what are some of your best tricks or hacks for working through a busy schedule and keeping lots of balls in the air?
I won’t remember anything unless I write it down, so I keep a detailed, categorized to-do list divided up between work, writing, kids, home, and personal. The Todoist app syncs to my phone, and work and personal computers so I can keep track of the various threads. I have annual recurring tasks I would otherwise forget, weekly tasks, and minor and major due dates. Outsourcing the mental load to the list is the only way I can lighten the weight of my responsibilities.
What are the best and worst parts of being an author?
The best part of being a writer is writing. There is no greater feeling than when the words are flowing and plot points are slotting together like puzzle pieces. The worst part is the business of publishing. Like in any artistic field, we are trying to make and sell art in a capitalistic system. The industry cuts deep on even the most thick-skinned among us. At every stage, there are people who will say no, who will say you’re not good enough. Agents, editors, reviewers, readers, booksellers, and bestseller lists. Writers have to be soft-hearted to write about the human condition. But we also have to be tough enough to survive rejection at every turn. It’s difficult to have both at all times.
What is your go-to outfit and why?
A few years ago, while I was still going into an office every day, I would have said a wrap dress, simple jewelry, and a pair of stylish heels. These days, I work from home, so my style is more comfortable and casual. I’m juggling virtual meetings, writing, and child pick-up from home, so my go-to is a comfy dress and jean jacket. I can throw on a baseball cap and white sneakers to take the dog for a walk or slip on sandals and some jewelry to dress it up when needed.
How has growing up and living in the Bay Area influenced your style?
The style here is relaxed and casual. Corporate culture is dominated by the tech industry, so most people work in jeans and hoodies. However, I’ve always pushed back against this norm because I’m more comfortable in a dress and heels than jeans and sneakers, so it means I’m typically too dressy for most occasions. I imagine if I lived in a more formal region, I would really embrace my inner style.
What are the best books you’ve read recently, and what can’t you wait to read next?
Three standouts in recent months include These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean, Never Been Shipped by Alicia Thompson, and Left of Forever by Tarah DeWitt. I’m excited about Never Over by Clare Gilmore, which comes out in October, and Most Eligible by Isabelle Engel, which comes out in January. I love deeply emotional books that make me cry, laugh, and celebrate for the characters. I’m also a stickler for a happy ending. While I do enjoy the occasional tragedy, I need to be prepared going in and be in the mood to have my heart ripped out.
What is the thing about your wardrobe that gives you the most joy?
Accessories—shoes, purses, and jewelry—give me the most joy. I love to elevate a simple dress with a cute belt or kitten heels with a splash of color.
How does wearing a great pair of shoes make you feel?
A great pair of shoes is the perfect punctuation on an outfit. It makes me feel polished, put together, and ready for the world. I can be wearing the simplest outfit, but if my shoes are cute, I can walk out the door with confidence.
Shoe Lightning Round
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Flats or heels? My heart says heels; my head says flats.
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Brights or neutrals? Neutrals with a pop of bright color
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Trends or classics? Classics
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Closed toe or open toe? Closed toe (except for the two times a year after I actually get a pedicure and want to show off my polish.)
