Wild dreams. Big heart.

Where storytelling meets self-understanding

Wild dreams. Big heart.

Where storytelling meets self-understanding.

Hi, I’m Jodie Benveniste - YA romance author, psychologist, and big believer in letting your heart lead, even when the map isn’t clear.

This space is what happened when I left behind a sensible career (psychologist) to pursue my this-is-what-I’ve-always-wanted-to-do dream (writing).

It’s been a ride - full of doubt and discovery, fear and fulfilment - but more than anything, it’s been real.

Wild Dreams. Big Heart. is where I share the stories behind the stories:

• The inner journey behind the creative one,

• The emotional truths that fuel fiction,

• And the self-discovery that comes from living a life aligned with who you really are.

What you’ll find here:

• Bite-size reflections on creativity, self-expression, and emotional healing

• Insights into writing, psychology, and the deeper layers of being human

• A round-up of what’s inspiring me—books, shows, music, art, and more

• Behind-the-scenes updates on my novels and creative projects

• Plus, when you subscribe, you’ll receive The Story of You—a short guide to greater self-understanding

If you’re into heartfelt fiction, meaningful musings, and the creative path as a form of inner work—you’re in the right place.

Welcome. Let’s dream big - and live true - together.

Hello, I’m Jodie!

I’m an author and psychologist who writes heart-expanding YA romance to support self-understanding and emotional healing.

My stories explore love and friendship, family relationships, mental health, and wellbeing - gently guiding readers into the rich depths of their inner world.

Over the years, I’ve worked as a psychologist in private practice, a trusted parenting expert, an organisational consultant, an academic researcher, and Chair of the Board at an Independent School.

But at heart, I’ve always been a writer.

Now, I create unputdownable fiction with emotional depth - entertaining stories that offer insight, resonance, and healing.

When I’m not writing, you’ll find me reading novels, sipping tea, eating dark chocolate, or walking in the national park near my home.

I live in Adelaide, Australia, on Kaurna land, with my husband, two young adults, two cats, and a view to the hills.

You can also catch me on Instagram and Facebook @jodiebenvenisteauthor.

About my books

Never, Not Ever

Wishing her dad would show up. Avoiding her mum. Ignoring the way Zack makes her feel.

That was how she kept things under control.

But when the dad she’s only dreamed of appears—and the lies unravel—Tilly’s carefully constructed world cracks wide open.

Family secrets. Tangled feelings. A summer that changes everything.

Never, not ever…the story she expected.

Everything’s Absolutely Fine

Win debating. Impress her mum. Be the perfect girlfriend.

That was the plan.

But when everything spirals - and her biggest secret won’t stay buried - 16-year-old Eliza has to face the truth.

About her family. About her feelings. About herself.

Everything’s absolutely fine... until it’s not.

About Emotional Healing

At the heart of my stories - and my life - is a powerful model of self-understanding called Internal Family Systems, or IFS.

It’s an evidence-based therapeutic approach I once used with clients in private practice, and it’s also been a deeply personal part of my own healing journey.

IFS gently teaches us that we’re not just one fixed self - we’re made up of many parts.
Some parts protect us. Others carry old hurts. And beneath them all is our true self - wise, compassionate, and whole.

Through IFS, I’ve learned how to meet my inner world with more curiosity and care.

That’s why you’ll often hear me talk about the ‘parts of me’ - it’s a language that helps make sense of our inner complexity. It’s also an invitation for you to notice your parts, too - because they have stories to tell and gifts to offer.

When you subscribe, you’ll receive The Story of You - a short, soulful guide to exploring your inner world.

Just sign up and look for the link in your welcome email.

Let’s follow the wild dreams - and grow into the truth of who we are.