What does it take to leave a lasting mark on Pasadena’s literary history? For bestselling author Lian Dolan, it’s a blend of sharp wit, heartfelt storytelling, and an unwavering connection to the community — qualities that earned her a place on Vroman’s Walk of Fame during the Colorado Boulevard bookstore’s 130th-anniversary celebration on Saturday.
Dolan, whose novels Helen of Pasadena (2010) and The Sweeney Sisters (2020) have captivated Pasadena readers, has joined a select group of authors whose work has left a lasting impact on the community. Her hand prints are now permanently embedded in the walkway outside Vroman’s.
The event drew a crowd of fans, friends, and family to honor Dolan’s achievements. The store described her as someone who embodies the spirit of Vroman’s, a champion of storytelling, and a beloved figure in Pasadena. “To know that I’m a permanent part of the landscape now is unbelievable,” Dolan said with a smile. “This is earthquake-proof, right?”
For Dolan, the recognition marked a meaningful milestone in her journey as a writer. She moved to Pasadena 32 years ago, knowing no one locally except her husband, and has become one of the city’s celebrated literary voices.
“Bookstores have always been home for me,” she shared during her remarks. “I was a reader long before I was a writer, and bookstores are where we discover other worlds and find our voices. Being honored like this by Vroman’s is a dream come true.”
Dolan’s relationship with Vroman’s began in 2001 with her first book signing for Satellite Sisters’ UnCommon Senses, held in the months following 9/11.
“It was a small crowd, but it felt special,” she recalled. “If that had been the peak, I would have been happy. But what has happened since then has been extraordinary.”
Her debut novel, Helen of Pasadena, became a local sensation and stayed on the L.A. Times bestseller list for a year, cementing her place as a major voice in contemporary women’s fiction.
Her work often draws inspiration from Pasadena itself, weaving the city’s history, landmarks, and diverse communities into stories that resonate far beyond the San Gabriel Valley.
Dolan sees Pasadena as a city with all the elements that make a great story.
“It’s socio-economically diverse, full of iconic landmarks, and layered with history. I was surprised there weren’t more books set here,” she says.
The ceremony concluded with Dolan pressing her hands into the cement, a moment that solidified not only her legacy at Vroman’s but also her connection to the Pasadena community she has called home for over three decades.
As the applause echoed through the walkway, it was clear that Dolan’s impact extends far beyond bookshelves. Now, she and her hand prints have definitely become part of the city.
Deets
- Dolan’s Web site: https://www.liandolan.com
- Vroman’s Bookstore: https://vromansbookstore.com
