Welcome

Hello. Thank you for stopping by. I'm happy you're here.

My name is Wren Valentino. I'm an actor, film producer, movie critic, workshop instructor, and writer. I write in multiple genres, primarily romance, thriller, young adult, and horror. In addition, I'm a playwright, poet, and screnwriter. 

As an actor, I can be seen (and heard) in twenty-five films, including many horror movies. Check out the Acting section for more info. 

If you'd like to learn more about me and my life, the About section offers more details. 

The Links page is a great list of writing resources and links to the individual webpages of the members of my collective creative team. There, you will also find links to places you can connect with me online, as well as where you can read some of my work.

I've created a series of workshops for writers of all levels of experience, genres, and form. Visit Workshops with Wren for more information.

Visit Fantastic Classics for film reviews I write about classic films of all eras and all genres.

All of my titles are published by Blue Dasher Press. 

My most recent project is a short story about magic, romance, a black cat, and Halloween called Bells and Spells. 

Don't forget to check out the Giveaways page where you can find information on when the Kindle Unlimited editions of my books and short stories are available free every month. 

Please send all professional inquiries via the contact form. A member of my creative team will be happy to help you. 

Again, thank you for being here. As always, thank you for your support!💙

April Update: Poetry, Passion Projects, and Rays of Hope

Happy April, everyone!

Spring is in full bloom, and so is National Poetry Month — a time I hold close to my heart. As a poet, I embrace this month and all the beauty and truth it represents. Poetry reminds us to slow down, pay attention, and feel more deeply. If you haven’t yet had a chance to dive into my collections of poetry, I invite you to do so. Poetry has always been a lighthouse for me, and I hope mine can offer a little light for you, too.

This month also marks an exciting new chapter in my creative journey — I’ve adopted a new pen name: Jaxon Sevyn. Under this name, I’ll be writing m/m erotic romance stories filled with heart, heat, and hope. My first title as Jaxon, Desire in Varadero, is now available — and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share it with you.

Speaking of new releases, I’ve got several stories that just dropped and I’m incredibly proud of each one:

THE JETSETTERS

Justin Holt is a lonely barista in Chicago, juggling college and evening shifts at Clouds, a cozy coffee shop owned by his lesbian best friend, Starsky. One day, Diego Delgado — the Latin guitarist for rising rock band The Jetsetters — walks in, and everything changes. As love blossoms and the band’s fame skyrockets, Justin must navigate the chaos of instant celebrity, grief, and the strength it takes to hold on when the world starts spinning too fast.

FIFTY YARDS AND HOLDING

Victor Alvarez is a high school football star — and the reluctant leader of a violent street gang. Riley Brewer is a baseball prodigy with a big heart and an even bigger secret. When their paths cross, a powerful connection forms. But in a world where love like theirs is dangerous, the cost of being true to themselves might be everything.

SWIMMING TO CHICAGO

Seventeen-year-old Alex Bainbridge finds refuge on a secluded island near his home after his mother’s suicide. Isolated and adrift, he forms a deep friendship with Jillian Dambro and eventually falls for Robby LaMont, a shy new student. Together, the trio weathers the storms of life, discovering the kind of love and loyalty that can carry you across any ocean — even if it means swimming to Chicago.

And there's more! I’m overjoyed to announce I’ll be a series regular in the upcoming web series Horror Hound Bites with Mary Kate — keep your eyes peeled for all twelve episodes once they drop!

My short horror script The Playhouse was recently named an official selection of the Stockholm City Film Festival in Sweden. I’m also thrilled to share that the powerful feature film Shredded, where I serve as Executive Producer, is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

On stage, my one-act play Hour Glass will be performed at West Texas A&M University on April 27 — an honor I’m deeply grateful for.

As an actor, I’ve been keeping busy with some thrilling film projects, including Dummy (SRS Cinema) and A Beast in the Manor (Black Coppice Films). It’s been a whirlwind of creativity, and I’m loving every moment of it.

Outside of work, I’ve been grounding myself with family time, home-cooked meals, and lots of game nights — Old Maid still holds up, by the way! There’s something soothing about the simplicity of shuffling cards and sharing laughter around the table.

I’ve also been binging a gem of a show I missed the first time around — Scott & Bailey, which originally aired from 2011 to 2016. It’s gripping, smart, and features stellar performances from Suranne Jones, Lesley Sharp, and Amelia Bullmore. The writing, thanks to the brilliant Sally Wainwright, is top-notch. I can't recommend it enough.

On a more personal note… like many of you, I’ve been feeling the heaviness of the world. Some days it’s a lot to carry. But I’ve been making a conscious effort to rest, reflect, and refuel. That balance — between doing and simply being — is more essential than ever. If you have the capacity, please check in on your friends and loved ones. Just asking “Are you okay?” can mean the world.

The other morning, I saw a beautiful ray of sunlight breaking through the branches of a tree. It felt like a sign — a quiet promise that better days are ahead.

So hang in there. Keep going. Keep creating. Keep loving.

Be good to each other.

And thank you, always, for being part of this journey with me.

With love,

Wren Valentino

Blue Dasher Press Announces the Release of The Jetsetters by Wren Valentino

Blue Dasher Press is thrilled to announce the release of The Jetsetters, a captivating m/m romance novel by bestselling author Wren Valentino. Available now in paperback and eBook formats, The Jetsetters tells the passionate and emotional story of two young men navigating the complexities of love, fame, and personal growth.

In The Jetsetters, Justin Holt is a lonely barista living in Chicago who spends his days attending college and his evenings working at Clouds, a cozy coffee shop owned by his lesbian boss and best friend, Starsky. His quiet life is turned upside down when Diego Delgado, the hot Latin guitarist for the rock band The Jetsetters, strolls in for a cup of coffee. From their first encounter, a powerful spark is ignited between them.

As The Jetsetters rocket from obscurity to superstardom, Justin and Diego’s budding romance is put to the test. Justin must fight to preserve their relationship despite the chaos surrounding Diego’s rise to fame. When unexpected tragedy threatens Diego’s career and emotional well-being, Justin faces a heart-wrenching decision that will alter the course of their lives.

Author Wren Valentino shared his thoughts about the creative process behind The Jetsetters:

“I wanted to explore the intensity of young love and how it collides with the pressures of instant fame. At its heart, The Jetsetters is about finding connection and hope, even when the world feels impossibly loud.”

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable romance from Wren Valentino! Grab your copy of The Jetsetters today in paperback or eBook format, available wherever books are sold.

Stay tuned for more updates from Blue Dasher Press, including upcoming releases, author interviews, and special events. Follow us on social media to stay in the loop!

The Public and the Private: The Intersection Where I Exist

There’s a paradox at the heart of my life, and I feel it more acutely every day. As a writer and actor, my career depends on visibility. It requires me to be present, to share, to engage, and to let people into my world. But at my core, I yearn for a quieter, more anonymous existence. The intersection of these two realities is where I live, constantly balancing the demands of a public life with the deep pull toward privacy.

The truth about being a writer—or any kind of artist, really—is that you can’t simply create and expect people to find your work. You have to promote. You have to remind people you exist, that you have something to offer, that your next book, play, or performance is worth their time. This requires social media presence, public appearances, and a willingness to market not just the work, but also yourself.

And therein lies my struggle. I am not naturally inclined to self-promotion. I don’t wake up eager to craft the perfect Instagram caption or engage in endless discourse on Facebook. I find solace in the quiet spaces: in the pages of a book, in the stillness before a scene, in the sacred act of putting words to paper. Yet, to sustain my career, I must step out of those spaces and into the public eye.

There’s a vulnerability in this. The more you share, the more you invite scrutiny. The more visible you are, the less control you have over how you are perceived. Some days, this feels manageable; other days, it feels overwhelming. I find myself envying those who can create without expectation, who can live without the pressure of maintaining an audience’s attention. But I also recognize that this visibility grants me opportunities—to connect, to inspire, to make a living doing what I love.

So I exist in this in-between space. I embrace the necessity of being seen while protecting my need for solitude. I show up, but I also step back when needed. I remind myself that I can be present without giving everything away. And most importantly, I continue to create, because at the end of the day, that is what makes all of this worthwhile.

Perhaps there is no perfect resolution to this tension. Perhaps the answer is simply learning to navigate it with grace. I’m still figuring it out, but I know one thing for certain: I will always find my way back to the quiet, no matter how loud the world gets.

Blue Dasher Press Announces the Publication of Wren Valentino’s New Horror Short Story, Make It 'til Dawn

Blue Dasher Press is thrilled to announce the release of Make It 'til Dawn, a new short horror story by bestselling author Wren Valentino. This unique tale seamlessly blends horror, comedy, and romance into a single thrilling plot, offering readers an unforgettable experience filled with chills, laughs, and heartwarming moments.

At the heart of Make It 'til Dawn is the growing romance between two college-aged men, an element rarely explored in the horror genre. When Andrew accepts a dare to spend the night in an abandoned house to prove his bravery, Charles, a handsome parapsychology student, joins him—both intrigued by the supernatural folklore surrounding the house and eager to finally ask Andrew out. However, as the night unfolds, the two young men realize they’re not alone. Paranormal forces within the house, known to locals as Ghost Toast, are determined to prevent them from seeing the morning light.

“I wanted to write a horror story that not only delivers spine-tingling moments but also challenges the genre’s conventions,” says Wren Valentino. “Horror and romance don’t have to be separate entities, and I thought it was time to showcase a love story between two young men in a setting where they are rarely seen. Make It 'til Dawn is as much about finding courage—both in the face of supernatural terror and in confessing one’s feelings—as it is about surviving the night.”

Available exclusively in Kindle Unlimited edition, Make It 'til Dawn is perfect for readers who love stories that break the mold while delivering all the thrills and heart-stopping moments of classic horror. If you’re looking for a fresh take on the genre with a dash of romance and humor, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Get your copy today and see if Andrew and Charles can make it ‘til dawn!

March 2025 Update: A Month Full of Exciting Projects, Achievements, and New Discoveries

Hello friends!

As March rolls in, I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates, projects, and experiences that have filled my days recently. It’s been a whirlwind of creative milestones, family moments, and plenty of new discoveries.

Screenplay Recognition: The Everlasting Gift at the Beverly Hills Film Festival

I’m absolutely over the moon to announce that my screenplay The Everlasting Gift (adapted from my novel) has been named an official selection for the 2025 Beverly Hills Film Festival! This screenplay is very close to my heart – it follows an aspiring music teacher hired to direct a Christmas variety show at an elementary school in a community that the city has long since given up on. As she grapples with the grief of her past, she finds herself fighting for hope and healing for a town in desperate need of both. It’s truly an honor to see this project receive such recognition, and I can’t wait for you all to see what’s next!

Voice Role and Home Release: Night of the Strangers

I’m also excited to share that Night of the Strangers, the film I have a voice role in, is now available on Blu-ray and DVD! This is such an exciting milestone, and I’m grateful to be part of this unique and chilling project. If you haven’t had the chance to check it out yet, I highly recommend it for fans of gripping horror.

Family Day Out: Dinos Alive Exhibit and Tree House Cafe

On a lighter note, Edward, Connie, and I enjoyed a wonderful family day out recently. We visited the Dinos Alive Exhibit in West Sacramento, and let me just say – it was an experience that had all of us in awe. Dinosaurs never go out of style, right? Afterward, we treated ourselves to a delicious lunch at the Tree House Cafe. If you’re in the area, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy some incredible food. Highly recommend it!

Poetry News: Sounds Like She's Singing in White Winged Doves Anthology

In another exciting creative update, I’m thrilled to announce that my poem Sounds Like She’s Singing will be featured in the upcoming anthology White Winged Doves: A Stevie Nicks Poetry Anthology (Madville Publishing). It’s been such an honor to contribute to a collection inspired by the iconic Stevie Nicks, and I can’t wait for you all to read it.

Screenplay Achievements: Scare Me, Kill Me & The Playhouse

In the world of screenwriting, I’m happy to report that my horror screenplay Scare Me, Kill Me has been named a semi-finalist in the Filmmatic Horror Screenplay Awards! Additionally, my short horror screenplay The Playhouse was named a Quarterfinalist in the Killer Shorts Horror Short Screenplay Competition. It’s always encouraging to see your work being recognized, and these milestones make me even more excited for what’s to come.

A Cultural Experience: National Theatre Live’s Macbeth

Edward and I had an unforgettable afternoon recently when we had the pleasure of seeing the National Theatre Live’s filmed version of Macbeth, starring two of my favorite actors: David Tennant and Cush Jumbo. It was an electrifying performance, and I loved how the production brought the tragedy to life in such a gripping and contemporary way. If you get the chance, I highly recommend checking it out!

Upcoming Film Projects: A Beast in the Manor & Bradlee

I am beyond excited to share that I will be joining the fantastic UK film project A Beast in the Manor in the role of Michael Liston, as well as as an Executive Producer. The project promises to be an incredible journey, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it. I’m also excited to announce that I will be joining the cast of Zak Ferguson’s upcoming serial killer horror film Bradlee. I never imagined I’d be in a movie with horror icon Lynn Lowry – what a surreal and thrilling experience this will be!

Fantastic Classics: New Film Reviews

For the past few months, I’ve been writing film reviews through my new project, Fantastic Classics. If you’re a fan of cinema, Fantastic Classics is a place where you can read reviews from all genres and all eras. 

New Releases

This month, I had the pleasure of seeing a lot of my work released into the world:

Bells and Spells: When Dara Kovach, a college student, decides to apartment-sit in Chicago, she has no idea that meeting a black cat named Ichabod will change her life forever. This Halloween night adventure is one you won’t want to miss.

Love in the Shadows: A suspenseful romance that explores unexpected connections and dark secrets, when a heartbroken American writer in London meets an Italian spy at an exclusive party. Their bond turns into a thrilling partnership as they work to uncover the truth behind an assassination.

Accidents Never Happen: This intense story follows Albert, a Puerto Rican cruiserweight, and Joey, a college sophomore, whose worlds collide after a tragic accident. What begins as an attraction soon spirals into a chain of murder and heartbreak.

Wonder Land: A young girl named Destiny Moore, who has recently lost her mother, moves to Avalon Cove, South Carolina, where she begins a new life and uncovers dark secrets about the mysterious place known as Wonder Land.

Saying Goodbye to Somebody Somewhere

On a more bittersweet note, I want to take a moment to express my sadness at the end of one of my favorite TV shows, Somebody Somewhere. I’ve immensely enjoyed all three seasons, and I’ll definitely miss its terrific cast, heartfelt storytelling, and excellent writing. It’s one of those shows that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Local Discovery: Bento Box

Lastly, I’ve recently discovered a new favorite local lunch spot called Bento Box, and let me tell you – the food is incredible! It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area and looking for a delicious and unique meal.

Closing Thoughts

As we move into March, I want to wish everyone a wonderful, safe, and healthy month. Thank you for your continued support, and I’m excited to share more updates with you all soon. Keep an eye out for upcoming projects, new releases, and plenty more creative endeavors on the horizon.

Until next time!

With much love and gratitude,
Wren

Blue Dasher Press Announces the Release of Accidents Never Happen by Bestselling Author Wren Valentino

Blue Dasher Press is proud to announce the highly anticipated release of Accidents Never Happen, the latest novel by bestselling author Wren Valentino. With his trademark blend of raw emotion and taut suspense, Valentino delivers a gripping story of unexpected connections, complicated desires, and the haunting consequences of choices made in the heat of the moment.

Accidents Never Happen introduces us to Albert, a Puerto Rican amateur cruiserweight whose marriage has become a shell of what it once was. His wife can't even stand the sight of him, and he’s left to navigate the loneliness and turmoil of a fractured relationship. Enter Joey, a college sophomore who is dealing with the traumatic loss of his parents—an event that he feels responsible for, after he allegedly bled the brakes of their car, sending them off a cliff.

When Albert and Joey’s broken worlds collide beneath the shadow of a train track on a street in Chicago, a fierce and undeniable attraction simmers between them. Their desire is immediate and powerful, but when they give in to it, the consequences are catastrophic. A simple moment of passion triggers a chain reaction that spirals into murder, tragedy, and a series of events neither man could have ever imagined.

In a world where desire often defies the rules of identity, Valentino’s novel captures the complexities of human longing and the unpredictable paths it can lead us down.

“I wanted to explore how desire sometimes knows no gender, no boundaries—how it can exist in the most unlikely of places, between people who, on paper, couldn’t be more different,” says Wren Valentino in a statement about the writing process. “It’s a force that can be both redemptive and destructive, and Accidents Never Happen is a meditation on how those moments of desire can set off a chain of events that change everything.”

The novel is a haunting and thought-provoking tale of love, loss, and the way fate can twist and turn with the smallest of decisions. With vivid characters and a plot that is as relentless as it is unpredictable, Accidents Never Happen is a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction that pushes the boundaries of desire, identity, and consequence.

Accidents Never Happen is now available for purchase in a Kindle Unlimited edition.