Picture a Florida storyteller who spun true crime paranoia into a swoony rom-com—meet Alicia Thompson! This USA Today bestselling romance novelist burst onto the scene with her 2022 debut, Love in the Time of Serial Killers, blending sharp wit, heartfelt characters, and a dash of suspense. Living in Central Florida with her family and a black cat, Thompson crafts stories that make readers laugh, blush, and believe in love’s quirky magic.
With her knack for creating flawed, relatable protagonists and chemistry-packed plots, Thompson has carved a unique niche in contemporary romance. Her novels, like With Love, from Cold World, aren’t just about sparks flying—they explore grief, trust, and personal growth with a playful yet poignant touch. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the journey of this Paramore superfan turned literary star!
The Making of Alicia Thompson
Alicia Thompson’s path to romance stardom began in Florida, where her love for storytelling took root. A self-professed reader of anything she could get her hands on, she honed her craft while pulling all-nighters for her senior thesis. Her early writing included short stories for Girls’ Life magazine, and as a teen, she even made a memorable cameo in a 48 Hours episode, breaking the fourth wall at a local murder trial. This blend of pop culture savvy and fascination with human behavior shaped her distinctive voice.
Before her adult romance novels, Thompson dipped her toes in young adult fiction with Psych Major Syndrome (2009), showcasing her knack for witty dialogue and emotional depth. Her transition to adult romance with Love in the Time of Serial Killers marked a bold leap, cementing her as a fresh voice in the genre. Inspired by her love for true crime and rom-com tropes, she found her sweet spot crafting stories that balance humor and heart.
Alicia Thompson’s Unforgettable Stories
Thompson’s novels are a masterclass in blending romance with unexpected twists. Her debut, Love in the Time of Serial Killers (2022), follows PhD candidate Phoebe Walsh, a true crime obsessive who suspects her charming neighbor Sam is a murderer—only to discover he’s a sweet guy who might steal her heart. Praised for its flirty banter and emotional depth, it’s a Cosmopolitan pick for best romance novels ever.
Her sophomore novel, With Love, from Cold World (2023), takes readers to a kitschy Florida amusement park where rivals Lauren and Asa spark an enemies-to-lovers romance. Hailed as a New York Times best romance of the year, it weaves holiday cheer with complex characters and bisexual representation. Recent releases like The Art of Catching Feelings (2024) and A Classic Case (2024) showcase her evolving style, blending sports romance and cozy mystery vibes. Thompson’s writing shines through vivid characters, witty pop culture references, and steamy yet tender love scenes that keep readers hooked.
Known for her “opposites attract” and “grumpy-sunshine” tropes, Thompson crafts narratives that feel fresh yet familiar. Her ability to tackle heavy themes like grief and trauma while maintaining a light, engaging tone sets her apart. Fans love her for creating stories that are as thought-provoking as they are swoon-worthy, making her a go-to for modern romance readers.
Why Alicia Thompson Matters
Alicia Thompson’s impact lies in her ability to make romance feel real and relatable. Her characters—flawed, funny, and fiercely human—resonate with readers navigating love, loss, and self-discovery. By blending true crime intrigue and workplace rivalries with heartfelt romance, she’s redefined what a rom-com can be, earning starred reviews from Library Journal and Booklist. Her inclusive storytelling, featuring diverse identities like bisexual leads, adds depth to the genre.
As a Florida-based author, Thompson brings a unique perspective, turning humid settings into vibrant backdrops for love stories. Her meteoric rise from debut novelist to bestseller in just two years signals a bright future. With upcoming releases like Never Been Shipped (2025), she’s poised to keep charming readers worldwide.
- Key Works: Love in the Time of Serial Killers, With Love, from Cold World, The Art of Catching Feelings, A Classic Case
- Hobbies: Reading, playing “Bad Moon Rising,” and napping
- Fun Fact: She’s a Paramore superfan and proud cat mom!
Snag Love in the Time of Serial Killers and dive into Alicia Thompson’s witty, heart-melting world of romance!