Picture an American storyteller who spins tales of romance, mystery, and a dash of the paranormal—meet Amanda Quick! As the pseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz, Quick has enchanted readers with over 35 million books sold worldwide, earning her 40 consecutive spots on the New York Times bestseller list. Her signature blend of historical romance and suspense, often laced with witty banter and strong heroines, makes her a titan in the genre.
From Victorian England to glamorous 1930s California, Quick’s novels transport readers to worlds where love and danger intertwine. But what makes her stories so irresistible? Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this romance trailblazer.
The Making of Amanda Quick
Born Jayne Ann Castle on March 28, 1948, in Cobb, California, Quick grew up with a love for stories. Armed with a B.A. in History from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and a Master’s in Library Science from San Jose State University, she worked as a librarian at Duke University and other institutions. Her time among books fueled her imagination, but it was her persistence that launched her writing career. After six years of rejections, Quick broke through in 1979, eventually adopting the Amanda Quick pen name for her historical romantic suspense novels.
Amanda Quick’s Unforgettable Stories
Quick’s novels are a delightful mix of romance, mystery, and historical flair, often featuring heroines who are as clever as they are courageous. Her stories, set primarily in 19th-century England or 1930s California, blend steamy romance with fast-paced suspense. Take Ravished (1992), where Harriet, a spirited fossil hunter, teams up with the scarred Gideon to uncover a smuggling ring—sparks fly amid danger. Or Seduction (1990), a Regency romp where a bold heroine orchestrates her own scandalous adventure.
In the Arcane Society series, starting with Second Sight (2006), Quick weaves paranormal elements into Victorian settings, following psychically gifted characters solving arcane mysteries. Her Burning Cove series, like The Girl Who Knew Too Much (2017), trades corsets for Hollywood glamour, delivering noir-inspired romance. Quick’s sharp dialogue, plucky heroines, and alpha-male heroes keep readers hooked, while her research into historical details—like Victorian photography or mesmerism—adds depth.
Her style isn’t just about love; it’s about empowerment. Quick’s women are never damsels in distress but partners in adventure, reflecting her belief that romance celebrates human bonds and resilience. This feminist undercurrent earned her the Susan Koppelman Award for Feminist Studies.
Why Amanda Quick Matters
Amanda Quick redefined romance by blending it with suspense and speculative elements, paving the way for sub-genres like futuristic romance with her novel Sweet Starfire (1986). Her advocacy for the genre, through essays and workshops, has elevated its cultural respect. Beyond writing, Quick’s generosity shines—she founded the Castle Humanities Fund to support libraries and donated to Seattle schools, reflecting her librarian roots.
With over 120 novels across her pseudonyms, Quick’s influence spans decades, inspiring authors and delighting readers who crave stories of love and intrigue. Her ability to craft heroines who defy convention continues to resonate, making her a beacon for romance fans.
- Born: March 28, 1948, Cobb, California
- Key Works: Ravished, Seduction, Second Sight, The Girl Who Knew Too Much
- Awards: Susan Koppelman Award for Feminist Studies, Romantic Times Career Achievement Award
- Fun Fact: Quick writes six days a week, starting at 7 a.m., fueled by discipline and imagination.
Snag Ravished or The Girl Who Knew Too Much and dive into Amanda Quick’s thrilling world of romance and mystery!