Author Vicki Hughes

Welcome!
Let me introduce myself. I’m a retired teacher turned writer living in the North Carolina foothills, where crooked trellises and stubborn livestock inspire both laughter and lessons. My books range from the Gardening with Laughter memoir to adult coloring books, specialty calendars, and even a livestock guardian dog training guide.
And yes — there’s a mystery novel sprouting, too!

I invite you to browse my library.
Click on images or titles for more information.
THE LIBRARY

In this comprehensive and down-to-earth guide, Vicki Hughes draws on years of hands-on experience to help farmers and homesteaders raise trustworthy livestock guardian dogs from puppyhood to maturity. Blending real-life lessons with practical training advice, Hughes explains how to select the right puppy, bond your dog with your animals, prevent common mistakes, and build a reliable guardian that protects with intelligence and heart. Whether you’re new to LGDs or seeking to improve your program, this book offers a step-by-step roadmap to creating the perfect working partner—one that safeguards your livestock and your peace of mind.
Available in Kindle and Paperback.

Book 1 of the Gardening with Laughter Series
Welcome to my garden—where every “lesson” comes with a laugh!
Oh Dear! That Happened is a humorous (and all too true) memoir of one woman’s first grand garden plan gone hilariously sideways. From runaway scooters and collapsing trellises to tree-flattened greenhouses, each mishap sprouts a story—and a smile.
Through it all, Hughes invites you to discover that gardening isn’t just about growing vegetables; it’s about growing patience, resilience, and a healthy sense of humor. So pull up a chair (or a trowel), and join hfor a season of mud, miracles, and memorable mistakes. Because in this garden, laughter blooms best. 🌻
Available in Kindle and Paperback.

Adult Coloring Books

Explore 30 comforting drinks from around the globe in this beautifully illustrated adult coloring book. Each page features a detailed cultural scene paired with a traditional tea, coffee, or regional beverage—from Japanese matcha and Moroccan mint tea to Colombian tinto and the Great Smoky Mountains’ sweet iced tea.
Relaxing, creative, and travel-inspired, Sips Around the World is perfect for anyone who loves coloring, cozy moments, and learning about global traditions one cup at a time.
Available in Paperback only.


Slip into the hush of porch swings, fence posts, and friendly barnyards. The Simple Life invites you to slow down with charming scenes of country living—wildflowers and winding paths, well-worn boots by the door, faithful dogs watching over the day. Whether you’re unwinding after chores or daydreaming about wide-open fields, these relaxing illustrations are made for mindful coloring and a smile or two. Gather your pencils, pour some sweet tea, and let a little country calm color your world.
Available in Paperback only.


Celebrate the heart, grit, and brilliance of the world’s hardest-working dogs. Working Border Collies brings to life the bond between shepherd and dog through beautifully detailed illustrations of real farm moments. Each page captures the intelligence, focus, and instinct that make these remarkable partners unforgettable. Perfect for dog lovers, farmers, and anyone who appreciates the art of honest work and loyal friendship—one color at a time.
Available in Paperback only.


Specialty Calendars

A beautifully rendered calendar that focuses on the incredible working abilities of Anatolian Shepherd livestock guardians. In honor of these wonderful guardians, this calendar shows them at work in the fields guarding their herds and flocks. Enjoy a year of lovely Anatolian images!
Available in paperback only.












