Our fearless leader and publisher, Brooke Warner, is celebrating a milestone birthday. As this amazing and inspiring publishing pioneer turns the big 4-0, we reached out to authors, team members and friends alike to shower her with at least 40 reasons we love her so much!

Grab your favorite treat, raise a glass and say CHEERS! to Brooke Warner with us!

• “She is true to her word!” -Jill Dearman
• “Brooke is enthusiastic, accessible, fearless!” -Rita M Gardner
• “She’s a no bullshit, straight shooter and gets it DONE. Handles issues with grace and expertise. Bottom line: She rocks! And she’ll ROCK 40.” -Crystal Patriarche, CEO, SparkPoint Studio
• “I love Brooke for so many reasons: her bravery, her work ethic, her big heart, and her passion for writers. But more than anything I love Brooke for bringing She Writes Press into being. I can name dozens of people inside the world of publishing who rail against the machine morning, noon, and night—I can only name a few who take their frustration and use it to create something needed, visionary, and beautiful. Be the change you seek. That’s Brooke.” -Kamy Wicoff, Founder, She Writes
• “She is committed to self published authors and their success.” -Gina Folk
• “Her generosity (and her hair)” -Jodi Wright
• “For holding us to high standards and opening doors!” -Jeannie Blasberg
• “Fearless & funny, smart & savvy, brave & beautiful!” -Ashley Sweeney
• “I appreciate that Brooke shoots from the hip. She says what she means and she means what she says; all with no false promises.” -Laurie Buchanan
• “She helped create a platform for society to hear voices like mine.” -Sunny Mera
• “Brooke made it happen for my book and so many others & she did it with care and attention to all sorts of issues and details!” -Susan Hadler
• “Gotta love those bangs!” -Robert Soares
• “Just getting to know her but I LOVE that she called me personally to talk about publication and contract questions!” -Mary Plouffe
• “She made a personal connection beyond our professional one.” -Ann Anderson Evans
• “She provides the right balance of support and challenge to improve our work. Her generous spirit and commitment to having voices heard.” -Joan Stanford
• “She is smart, competent, a skilled leader, a brilliant publisher… and she’s beautiful and has just the right amount of sass!!!” -Barbara Stark-Nemon
• “Your steady support and encouragement.” -Linda Dahl
• “Brooke is a dream facilitator, a ‘make-it-happen’ maven! She gives folks a hand when we need it the most.” -Sheila K. Collins
• “I love Brooke because she’s a fierce and fabulous advocate for women and their words.” -Katrina Anne Willis
• “Her vision, focus on quality, and love of the written word. Happy Birthday, Brooke!” -Pam Webber
• “She is a courageous visionary and leader in publishing and generously sharing her experience and advice.” -Joanne Doucette
• “Brooke calls it as she sees it. She doesn’t just tell you what you’d like to hear; hence, her authors sense her integrity and savvy. She is a force to be reckoned with! Can’t believe you are **only** 40, Brooke!” -Betsy Teutsch
• “Who wouldn’t love a woman who follows their dream and opens up freeways of opportunity for the rest of us to do the same? Brooke, this planet is a happy place with you here! Happy birthday!” -Francine Huss
• “Smart and determined to continue to change the path of publishing, there has never been a better mentor to so many. Brooke is the Doogie Howser of publishing!” -Lizbeth Meredith
• “Brooke is an inspirational role model and leader.” -Iris Waichler
• “Her humanity, encompassing commitment to my project and well-being, inviting me into this special sisterhood of women writers.” -U-Meleni
• “Brooke is 100% devoted to She Writes. I really admire her dedication to her authors–that commitment continues with everyone else in the company and elevates the entire project of Booksparks and She Writes. Congratulations!” -Julie Metz
• “Brooke always takes time out of her ridiculously busy day to answer questions, even if they’ve been asked a hundred times by other authors before us. I know she is really busy, but she cares so much about her authors that she’ll make time for you. It’s always appreciated.” -Erin Seidemann
• “For many reasons: she is truly one of a kind and I value her leadership. She is supportive, smart, intuitive, energetic, and knows her stuff inside and out. I feel very supported alongside her. I love her a lot.” -Dorit Sasson
• “For her professionalism and belief that all women should feel empowered by their stories.” -Jessica Barraco
• “Even though I’ve just “met” Brooke via email, I’m amazed at how efficient and productive she is. In the midst of launching Greenlight Your Book, she is helping so many authors realize their publishing dreams.” -Nadine Kenney Johnstone
• “Brooke is and forever will be a true friend to writers, always trying to work through challenges gracefully, and as an ally, and always trying to do the best for writers. She is simply a very sweet person.  Full of good energy!  Happy Birthday, dear Brooke!  Miss seeing you.” -Meeta Kaur
• “Because of the self-assurance, the ability to say “I know good writing when I see it..” … and back it up by her actions.” -Barbara Donsky
• “Oh boy – so many reasons! Her wisdom and humor, her big ideas and vision, her can-do attitude and grace under pressure. Happy Birthday, Brooke!” -Amy Wheeler
• “She can see the future.” -Jeannine Atkins
• “Bright, with the unusual leadership combo of both vision and ability to execute, deft handling of a bunch of anxious amateurs–what’s not to love?” -Monica Starkman
• “She has the ability to impart the sometimes difficult truth of her observations in such a way that leaves you feeling supported, uplifted and appreciated. That’s quite a gift!” -Risa Nye
• “She is an amazing mentor to loads of women and young girls as well!! And one of the best publishers in the world!” -Joan Rough
• “She listens and really cares. And she has a vision and the guts to see it through.” -Leslie Johansen Nack
• “She’s smart and has a great smile. Happy Birthday, Brooke!” -Ginni Simpson
• “Brooke looks ahead.  Brooke is invariably kind and patient no matter what.  Brooke is efficient and clear and lets us see who she really is.” -Mary Fillmore
• “She is genuine, a straight shooter, and a good dresser. :)” -Carlyn Montes De Oca
• “I can’t say I know her well, but she feels honest and forthright. I appreciate that very much!” -Lisa Boucher
• “I love Brooke for her integrity, her honesty, her thoughtfulness, and her sense of humor. I truly couldn’t ask for a better mentor, colleague, or friend.” -Annie Tucker
• “Brooke listened to me while I explained to her about  my book. She listened and really heard me. Then she trusted me and my book and worked with me to make it the best it could be.  Brooke is an absolute GEM in an industry that can be terrifying and cut throat.” -Patti Clark
• “…because she is a pioneer and passionate.” -Sheila Grinell
• “Happiest birthday dear Brooke, you rock my world with your vision and commitment to getting our stories out and voices heard. Thank you!” -Lone Mørch
• “She is tireless in creating an authentic publishing experience for her authors.” -Cindy Eastman
• “She’s the poster girl for integrity in publishing.” -Claudia Six
• “Brooke is the pillar of patience and always open to questions and suggestions.” -Garine Isassi, author of Start with the Backbeat
• “Brooke is so smart and has such a great sense of humor. I love the rare occasions we get to spend time with her, here in AZ!” -Cassie
• “An inspiring woman who is living on the frothy edge of evolution as an agent of change in a hypermasculine culture!” -Suzanne Anderson
• “Clear answers to questions and a willingness to dig when the answer isn’t immediately available.” -Jill Smolowe
• “She has been extremely helpful and forthcoming during my publication experience. Her openness and enthusiasm have spurred me on and inspired me. Thank you, Brooke and Happy Birthday.” -Nancy Hinchliff
• “Courage and compassion in one lovely package!” -Betsy Graziani Fasbinder
• “I love Brooke because she has vision tempered by experience. She listens to her own internal wisdom and takes action. I love Brooke because she is direct, incisive, and upstanding. She is a natural leader, has dignity, and great empathy. Happy birthday, wonderful woman.” -Jennifer Dwight
• “All the S words: Smart, Savvy, Sassy, Sexy!” -Patricia Reis
• “For helping to come up with new ways of publishing instead of simply bemoaning the state of the industry.” -Kate Tyler Wall
• “She is always there for you– not just during office hours.  Brooke never disappoints and I hope she has the best birthday celebration ever!!” -Diana Y Paul
• “She accepted my book and changed my life! Thank you, Brooke!!!” -Barbara McDonald
• “Your openness to learning and mastering such a range of skills impresses me almost as much as your deep commitment to those you love and to the women whose paths cross your own at more of a distance.  Wishing you health, joy, the best kinds of discoveries, and triumphs in your initiatives and ventures.” -Roni Beth Tower
• “She’s gracious, smart, and a fabulous publisher!” -Nan Gefen
• “Smart” -Pat Rohner
• “She meets us where we are and helps us get where we want to be.” -Rita
• “For starting SheWrites Press” -Kimberly Childs
• “Brooke is a visionary, and at the same time she is a hardworking, extremely communicative supporter of women writers.” -Ellen Sherman
• “If I have to, I can do anything. I am strong, I am invincible, I am woman. This is who you are for us! Thank you for being so inspiring, and a happy, happy, birthday!” -Jenni Ogden
• “Vision, leadership, poise, and passion.” -Laura Diamond
• “You have helped so many to realize their dreams and I thank you for that.” -Carrie Highley
• “Brooke Warner’s passion for authors, books and creating a space for women writers in publishing has opened up for new and important stories to be shared. Brooke is changing the publishing landscape for the better to become more inclusive and diverse.” -Lene Fogelberg
• “Because she wouldn’t know how to bullshit if her life depended on it. Because she’s smart, because she’s loyal, because she will always have your back sister. Because she’s the real deal.” -Sam Dunn
• “Because she’s clear-eyed, levelheaded and completely committed to the mission underlying SheWrites Press!” -April E.
• “Brooke is like her name – calm and safe waters.” -Leora Krygier
• “Brooke made my dream come true.” -Jo Ivester
• “I love Brooke because she’s a brave pioneer for women writers.” -Marianne Bohr
• “I love Brooke because she made my dreams come true.” -Kelly Kittel
• “Her amazing eye for new voices and passion!” -Kelly
• “For staying true to her vision of what publishing can and should be for writers of all levels and genres. For opening up that world to so many of us! Have a wonderful birthday, you deserve it!” -Vicki Cody
• “Brooke does more to amplify women’s voices than anyone I know as a coach, editor, publisher, and as a writer herself.” -Eileen Flanagan
• “Brooke’s passion is contagious, and she never gives up, even when that would be the easiest path. We are lucky to have her as our publisher, our advocate, and our Chief Ass-Kicker.” -Tammy Flanders Hetrick
• “She is a patient, understanding mentor who doesn’t mind repeating herself!” -Cait Levin
• “Inspirational and pioneering!!!!!!” -Patricia Minger
• “Brooke is a brave advocate for women who write and works tirelessly to create the space for our voices to be heard.” -Jeanie Kortum
• “Many reasons, including that she is a champion of women, of writers, and an amazing role model for what women can achieve, it’s her honesty and transparency that impresses me most.” -Celine Keating
• “Brooke is a very accomplished writer.” -Jill Coupe
• “Brooke is one smart cookie!” -Irene A
• “I love the clarity of her thinking. I learn a lot.” -JoAnn Smith Ainsworth
• “I love Brooke’s straight-forwardness and honesty.  I trust her completely.  She’s a wonderful mentor, a champion for us all.” -Michelle Cox
• “Brooke believed in my work in a time of crisis and allowed me to start freelancing and become successful–Thanks for all the encouragement Brooke!” -Kiran Spees
• “Because she co-founded SWP! And, because of her book publishing wisdom and willingness to share it!” -Karen Meadows
• “I love that everything Brooke says, writes and does wreaks with conviction and strength. She is among the most congruous, soulful and honorable women I know. Above all, Brooke is the quintessential champion. Who doesn’t feel more powerful and invincible under her watch? Happy new year of glorious life, BROOKE! SO MUCH LOVE.” -Shary Hauer
• “Early on in my SWP publishing experience, I was always so grateful when Brooke made herself available for my questions and concerns, even those inquiries borne out of frazzled nerves. She exhibited a calmness and maturity I thought extraordinary for someone so young.  Wishing her a Happy 40th ! May the future bring much happiness and continued success.” -Sande Boritz Berger
• “Brooke’s balance of professionalism (and knowing when to put her foot down), humor, expertise, and passion is inspiring to me every day! Brooke makes me excited to come to work for this company; she is by far one of the best industry experts I’ve ever worked with on so many levels” -Lauren Wise
• “She’s our tequila shot partner-in-crime. What more do you need?!” -Lauren Wise
• “Because she transformed me: from discouraged to empowered. From unheard to heard. From wannabe to published author. It was one of the biggest, most meaningful transformations of my life. And I’m just one of many for whom she has made this leap possible. Wow!” -Ann Hedreen
• “I love Brooke for many reasons: her vision, her entrepreneurial spirit, her commitment to her writers, but mostly for her integrity and her good, good heart.” -Jean P. Moore
• “She is so encouraging…and totally gets new writers. Sometimes I had a question, but couldn’t figure out to say my question, but she gets us and could read between the lines and figure out what I was really asking and answer it! Happy happy birthday, Brooke!” -Andrea Miles
• “She’s gracious, and generous and kind when fielding all newbie questions.” -Betty Hafner
• “She’s DYNAMIC!!” -Tuya Pearl
• “I love Brooke’s no BS approach. She’s refreshingly real. Happy birthday!” -Alexis Marie Chute
• “Brooke provided me the guidance and support I needed to publish my debut novel, A Tight Grip. Her intelligence, kindness, and expertise in publishing helped me and many others realize our dream of seeing our books in print. Brooke is a class act, and I’m glad to know her.” -Kay Rae Chomic
• “I love Brooke because she is both honest and earnest in her support of authors getting into print.  She is incredibly generous in her working relationships, never jealous or competitive. Her passion for helping authors succeed in publishing is as sincere as it is infectious. I am deeply grateful for her in my life. Happy Birthday, Brooke!” – Rebecca Faye Smith Galli
• “She believes in us.” -Marcia Mabee
• “She is tactfully honest!” -CeCe Cullen
• “Because she is sooooo professional!” -Annette Gendler
• “Gifted publisher, SMART, wonderful role model, excellent team leader, fabulous writer and speaker. Happy Birthday Brooke! I hope you have a glorious day!” -Becky Austill-Clausen
• “She’s genuine and kind, generous of her time and talent.” -Linda Kass
• “I love and admire Brooke for taking a stand for authors who had great books but no platform, for believing in women authors and their voices enough to take the brave leap of starting She Writes Press. I am immensely proud to be part of the community that Brooke made possible, and I thank her for her tireless efforts and unfailing integrity on behalf of women authors everywhere. Welcome to your 40s, Brooke … you have accomplished so much already, but this is a wonderful decade of life that I know will hold even more blessings for you! Much love.” -Stacey Aaronson