Lisa Kleypas: From Pageant Stage to Romance Royalty
- Yassie
- Sep 7
- 2 min read
Born November 5, 1964, in Temple, Texas, Lisa Annette Kleypas moved to Massachusetts as an infant and grew up enveloped in American colonial history—a rich backdrop that later infused her vivid historical romances.
After earning a degree in political science from Wellesley College, she penned her first novel during summer break. At just 21, Kleypas sold that debut manuscript—launching her prolific career while also earning the title Miss Massachusetts 1985 and performing her own song at the Miss America 1986 pageant, where she was named a “talented nonfinalist.”
A Storyteller’s Journey
Historical Romance Icon
Kleypas is best known for her sweeping historical romance series. Her breakthrough Wallflowers series includes the beloved Devil in Winter and Secrets of a Summer Night. She continued the legacy with The Hathaways and the gothic-tinged Ravenels, whose recent entries—Chasing Cassandra (2020) and Devil in Disguise (2021)—sold well and delighted fans.
Ventures into Contemporary Romance
In the mid-2000s, Kleypas expanded into contemporary romance with the Travis series. She later introduced the charming Friday Harbor series, which was set in Washington State’s San Juan Islands—one of which (Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor) was adapted into the TV movie Christmas with Holly.
Critical Acclaim and Global Reach
Kleypas’s works have been translated into more than 20 languages and consistently appear on bestseller lists worldwide.Throughout her career, she has garnered prestigious accolades, including multiple RITA Awards, Publishers Weekly starred reviews, and Amazon Editor’s Top Ten picks. Notable honors include Worth Any Price winning RITA for Short Historical and Lady Sophia’s Lover earning both a Romantic Times Best Sensuous Historical Romance award and a Publishers Weekly starred review.
A defining moment of her journey occurred in 1998 when her home in Texas was devastated by flood. She and her mother each chose a romance novel amid the chaos—and it reaffirmed her belief that the genre brings comfort and hope when it's needed most.
Now and Always: Her Lasting Legacy
Today, Lisa Kleypas continues to enthrall readers with her emotionally rich storytelling, deep character chemistry, and masterful use of romance tropes. From historical ballrooms to contemporary towns, her novels celebrate resilience, love, and the power of a happy ending.
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