Step into the mesmerizing universe of the Curtain Worlds series, where psychic powers, alien ruins, and sizzling romance collide on the planet Harmony! Penned by Jayne Ann Krentz under her futuristic pseudonym Jayne Castle, this science fiction romance saga transports readers to a world cut off from Earth, brimming with mystery and passion. Whether you’re a fan of paranormal twists or heart-pounding suspense, Curtain Worlds offers an irresistible escape.
Picture this: a distant planet glowing with amber energy, where dust bunnies—adorable yet fierce creatures—steal the show alongside daring heroes and heroines. From ghost hunters to para-archaeologists, the characters navigate a thrilling blend of danger and desire, making every book a page-turner. Ready to explore this captivating series? Let’s dive in!
How Curtain Worlds Began
Jayne Ann Krentz, a titan of romance with over 50 New York Times bestsellers, launched the Curtain Worlds series in 1996 under her birth name, Jayne Castle. Inspired by her love for blending romance with speculative elements, she created the Futuristic World of St. Helen’s with Amaryllis, laying the foundation for the broader Curtain Worlds universe. The series expanded into the Harmony setting, a planet where colonists, stranded after an energy Curtain closed, developed psychic abilities and new societies. Krentz’s knack for crafting strong heroines and intricate mysteries shaped this unique subgenre of paranormal romance.
The Heart of Curtain Worlds
The Curtain Worlds series spans multiple sub-series, including the Futuristic World of St. Helen’s and the Harmony-focused Ghost Hunters and Rainshadow novels. In Amaryllis (1996), psychic detective Amaryllis Lark teams up with rugged Lucas Trent to uncover a corporate leak, sparking a fiery romance amid a futuristic alien world. After Dark (2000), a Ghost Hunters novel, follows para-archaeologist Lydia Smith and ghost hunter Emmett London as they unravel a murder mystery on Harmony, powered by amber and psychic energy.
The Lost Night (2012), the first Rainshadow novel, introduces Rachel Blake, a bookstore owner drawn into a dangerous investigation on Rainshadow Island with pirate Harry Sebastian. The upcoming It Takes a Psychic (June 2025) promises more psychic-fueled adventure. Themes of trust, resilience, and love shine through, set against Harmony’s eerie alien catacombs and vibrant psychic culture. Krentz’s witty dialogue and fast-paced plots make each story a delightful blend of suspense, sci-fi, and romance.
The series’ setting is a character in itself—Harmony’s amber-powered technology, mysterious ruins, and quirky dust bunnies add depth and charm. Whether it’s the Ghost Hunter Guild’s power struggles or the allure of forbidden ruins, the world-building captivates readers, making every book a fresh yet familiar journey.
Why Curtain Worlds Resonates
Curtain Worlds has carved a niche in the paranormal romance genre, blending science fiction’s speculative edge with romance’s emotional core. Fans adore Krentz’s empowered heroines, who are never damsels but heroes in their own right, and the series’ dust bunnies have become cult favorites for their mischievous loyalty. With over 40 books under the Jayne Castle name, the series’ longevity speaks to its enduring appeal, offering escapism and emotional depth.
Its influence extends to inspiring other authors to explore futuristic romance, and its fanbase cherishes the interconnected Arcane Society threads that weave through Krentz’s multigenre works. The series’ ability to balance high-stakes adventure with heartfelt connections keeps readers returning to Harmony’s glowing shores.
- First Book: Amaryllis (1996)
- Latest Book: It Takes a Psychic (June 2025)
- Sub-Series: St. Helen’s, Ghost Hunters, Rainshadow
- Award: Siren’s Call (2015) won Best Science Fiction Romance, All About Romance Reader Award
Grab Amaryllis and dive into the Curtain Worlds’ thrilling blend of psychic adventure and steamy romance—Harmony awaits!