Why I Set My Stories in Coastal Maine (And My Top 5 Real Spots That Inspired Them)

Evelyn Grace
Sep 29
2 min read

Rocky coast with pinkish stones and calm sea under a cloudy sky. Dense forest lines the horizon, creating a serene and peaceful mood. — Maine's rocky shore | Southwest Harbor, ME

When readers tell me they feel like they’ve been to the towns in my books, it makes me smile — because in a way, they have. Every fictional place I’ve created borrows little details from real-life Maine towns I know and love.

I love photography as well as words, so all of the photos in this post were taken by me on my Maine adventures.

Here are five real places that sparked pieces of my fictional worlds:

1. Camden

The harbor, the mountains that tumble right down to the sea, the mix of locals and tourists — Camden inspired much of the Haven series. It has that perfect blend of postcard charm and lived-in authenticity.

Tall ships docked at a marina on a clear day, with vibrant blue sky and reflections on water. American flags visible, creating a nautical vibe. — Camden Harbor

2. Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

The rocky shoreline, tidepools, and sunrise on Cadillac Mountain… parts of all my stories borrow from this iconic Downeast setting. It’s Maine at its most breathtaking.

Rocky coastline with pine trees framing a view of the ocean under a cloudy blue sky. The scene is tranquil and natural. — Great Head Trail | Acadia National Park

3. York & Nubble Light

Perched on a tiny island just off the rocky coast, Nubble Light is one of Maine’s most photographed lighthouses. The combination of dramatic ocean views and small-town charm has influenced some of the cozy seaside details in my stories — places where community gathers and hope shines bright.

White lighthouse and house with red roofs on a rocky coast, cloudy sky, and choppy ocean waves. Red shed adds contrast. Peaceful mood. — Nubble Lighthouse

4. Eastport

Standing on the easternmost edge of the U.S., watching the sun rise before anyone else? That feeling of hope and new beginnings found its way into my Evergreen Falls Christmas stories.

Boats docked in a marina with a large cruise ship in the distance. Cloudy sky, calm water, and a rocky shoreline create a peaceful scene. — Easport, ME | The day a cruise ship joined the harbor view

5. Wells

For pure beach vibes, Wells has always been a favorite. Long stretches of sand, salty breezes, and that easy pace of life at the shore — these details weave their way into many of my fictional towns, adding a sun-soaked layer to the Maine settings I love to write.

Empty beach under a cloudy sky with houses along the shoreline. The calm ocean meets the sandy, pebbled beach, creating a serene mood. — Wells Beach | cold March day

For me, Maine isn’t just scenery. It’s woven into the stories — a reminder of community, resilience, and beauty in the everyday.

If you’d like to take a little Maine home with you, check out my newest release, Second Pew on the Left. And don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for more behind-the-scenes peeks at the real places that make their way into my fiction.