Dive into the quirky, magical world of the Jane True series, where a small-town misfit discovers she’s half-selkie and plunges into a whirlwind of supernatural adventures! Written by Nicole Peeler, this urban fantasy saga blends humor, mystery, and heart, set against the charming backdrop of Rockabill, Maine. Jane True’s journey from bookstore clerk to mystical heroine is a delightful ride for fans of Sookie Stackhouse or Mercy Thompson.
With its sassy protagonist, vibrant supernatural creatures, and a touch of romance, the series captures the essence of light urban fantasy. Ready to explore a world where vampires, gnomes, and genies roam? Let’s uncover what makes Jane True so enchanting!
How Jane True Began
Nicole Peeler, an academic with a Ph.D. in English Literature, launched the Jane True series in 2009 with Tempest Rising, published by Orbit Books. Inspired by her love for mythology and pop culture, Peeler crafted a story that reimagines supernatural beings with a fresh, humorous twist. Rockabill, a fictional Maine town with a quirky whirlpool called the Old Sow, became the perfect stage for Jane’s transformation from outcast to empowered halfling.
Peeler’s background in teaching popular fiction at Seton Hill University shaped her knack for blending witty dialogue with rich world-building. Her goal? To create a heroine who’s relatable yet extraordinary, navigating a world where every myth is real—and slightly off-kilter.
The Heart of Jane True
The series kicks off with Tempest Rising (2009), where Jane, a 26-year-old loner, stumbles upon a dead body during her nightly ocean swim, unveiling her selkie heritage and a hidden supernatural society. In Tracking the Tempest (2010), Jane hones her powers while investigating a fiery mystery with her vampire boyfriend, Ryu. Tempest’s Legacy (2010) deepens the stakes as Jane confronts her mother’s killer, blending action with emotional growth. By Tempest Reborn (2013), the sixth book, Jane battles an ancient evil threatening Rockabill, cementing her role as a fierce protector.
Themes of self-discovery, resilience, and community shine through, wrapped in Peeler’s irreverent humor and vivid Maine setting. Jane’s struggles with her tragic past—losing her high school sweetheart and facing town scorn—make her relatable, while her embrace of her sexuality and safe-sex advocacy add a modern edge. The supernatural world, filled with quirky creatures like healing dogs and grocery-bagging spirits, feels both fantastical and grounded, offering a playful take on urban fantasy tropes.
Peeler’s first-person narration gives Jane a sassy, authentic voice, balancing dark moments with laugh-out-loud banter. Whether she’s sparring with a vampire or befriending a barghest, Jane’s journey is as much about finding her place as it is about solving murders.
Why Jane True Resonates
The Jane True series carved a niche in urban fantasy for its blend of humor, heart, and inclusivity. Fans praise its quirky characters and Peeler’s ability to satirize genre clichés while delivering a compelling story. Though not as mainstream as some fantasy giants, the series won a 2013 RT Reviewers Choice Award for Urban Fantasy Protagonist, reflecting its cult following. Its focus on a heroine who grows from downtrodden to empowered resonates with readers seeking stories of personal triumph.
Peeler’s fresh take on mythology and her nod to marginalized voices—like the lesbian couple who run Jane’s bookstore—add depth, making the series a hidden gem for diverse, lighthearted fantasy fans.
- First Book: Tempest Rising (2009)
- Last Book: Basic Incubus (2015)
- Total Books: 10 (including novellas)
- Award: 2013 RT Reviewers Choice Award
Grab Tempest Rising and dive into Jane True’s quirky, magical world! Whether you’re a fantasy fanatic or just love a good underdog story, Jane’s adventures in Rockabill will keep you hooked!