An impulsive choice. A tragic death. A shattered family. New York City, 1964 — where Mavis and Harris must decide if love is worth the cost of everything.
Nancy Massand is an award-winning author of historical romance whose debut novel, The Circle Unbroken, captured first place in the prestigious RWA Hearts Through History competition in 2018 — before it ever reached bookstore shelves. Set in the vibrant, turbulent world of 1960s Harlem and New York City, her stories weave together faith, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds of love.
Inspired by the parables of Jesus, Nancy believes stories are more than entertainment — they are invitations. Her writing draws readers into worlds where ordinary people face extraordinary choices, and where love always costs something worth paying.
A lifelong New Englander turned Texan, Nancy's journey took her from Massachusetts through Chicago, the West Coast, and New York City before settling in the Lone Star State. That richness of experience breathes authenticity into every page she writes. A former English teacher and middle school dean, she spent decades inspiring young writers — and has also written children's musicals and dramatic monologues that have graced stages across the country.
When she is not writing, Nancy can be found exploring local history, volunteering in her community, and dreaming up the next story that will not let her go.
“I write about people who have to decide if love is worth the cost of everything — because I believe it always is.”
From literary magazines to radio interviews, The Circle Unbroken has found its audience.
Featured across two issues — September and November 2021 — as InD'Tale spotlights The Circle Unbroken for its authentic portrayal of 1960s Harlem and its unflinching faith.
Nancy joins Linda Thompson for a live audio conversation about faith, historical fiction, and the heart behind The Circle Unbroken — complete with an excerpt reading.
Nancy's nonfiction piece "Not Your Mother's Pumpkin Patch" earned first prize at storyhouse.org — proof that her voice is as compelling outside fiction as within it.
A beautifully crafted story that weaves history, faith, and romance seamlessly. Nancy Massand's debut is a testament to the power of love across generations.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s Harlem, this story gripped me from the very first page. Mavis and Harris are unforgettable characters — real, raw, and deeply human.
Winner of the RWA Hearts Through History award — and you can feel why. The research, the emotion, the faith woven through every page. Highly recommend.
What's the story that really gets you? Strip away the subplots and heady symbolism. Nancy explores why the right story finds you where you live — and why that's the whole point.
What divides you from people you used to love? The wounds of broken relationships cut deep. Nancy explores whether love — and faith — can bridge the distance.
You bask in their praise — then your critique group weighs in. Nancy shares what she learned about letting honest feedback make you a better writer.
A new story is taking shape. Join Nancy's reader community to be the first to hear about her next historical romance — cover reveals, early excerpts, and exclusive updates direct to your inbox.