Picture a British storyteller who whisked readers from Las Vegas to Capri with a sprinkle of romance and a dash of wanderlust—meet Belinda Jones! Born in 1967, this bestselling author of women’s fiction has charmed audiences with her travel-infused romantic comedies, blending humor, heart, and exotic locales. From her early days as a journalist to her novels that feel like a sun-soaked vacation, Jones’s stories invite readers to embrace adventure and self-discovery.
The Making of Belinda Jones
Born on December 20, 1967, in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, Belinda Cheryl Jones grew up in Exeter, Devon, with parents Pamela and Trefor Jones. Her love for storytelling bloomed early, fueled by frequent moves and a vivid imagination. After studying journalism at the London College of Printing, she kicked off her career at 19, crafting tales for the children’s comic Postman Pat. By her early twenties, Jones was penning features for Woman’s World and spent four years at More! magazine, later freelancing for heavyweights like Elle, Cosmopolitan, and FHM. In 1997, she swapped London for Los Angeles, a move that sparked her pivot to fiction.
Belinda Jones’s Unforgettable Stories
Jones’s novels are like a first-class ticket to dreamy destinations, wrapped in romance and wit. Her debut, Divas Las Vegas (2001), follows two friends chasing glamour and love in Sin City, earning a No. 2 spot in the New Woman Bloody Good Read Awards. I Love Capri (2002) transports readers to the sun-drenched Italian island, where translator Kim Rees finds love amid strawberry bellinis and millionaire suitors. Winter Wonderland (2012), set during Quebec’s Winter Carnival, melts hearts with its snow-globe magic and was nominated for Best Romantic Comedy by the Romantic Novelists’ Association. The Travelling Tea Shop (2014) takes readers on a cake-filled New England road trip, blending culinary delights with romance. Jones’s style—first-person narratives, vibrant settings, and strong female leads—makes her books irresistible escapes.
Beyond novels, Jones penned two nonfiction travelogues: On the Road to Mr. Right, a Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller, and Bodie on the Road, a heartfelt journey with her rescue dog. She also co-founded Notting Hill Press and curated the Sunlounger anthologies, showcasing short stories from top women’s fiction authors. Under the pen name Molly James, she writes magical realism romcoms, with Skip to End slated for a Hollywood adaptation.
Why Belinda Jones Matters
Belinda Jones’s work transcends typical chick lit, offering readers a passport to self-discovery and joy. Her novels, often dubbed “travelicious,” inspire women to chase dreams and embrace new horizons, whether it’s dancing salsa in Cuba or sipping coffee in Costa Rica. Her vivid settings double as travel guides, earning praise from outlets like Marie Claire and Heat for their escapist charm. Jones’s influence lies in her ability to blend humor, romance, and wanderlust, leaving readers eager for their next adventure. Her legacy endures in San Diego, where she continued writing until her passing in December 2024, at age 56.
- Born: December 20, 1967, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
- Key Works: Divas Las Vegas, I Love Capri, Winter Wonderland, The Travelling Tea Shop
- Awards: Winter Wonderland nominated for Best Romantic Comedy (2013)
- Fun Fact: Jones worked with her rescue dog Bodie at Animal Rescue Rhode Island.
Ready for a literary getaway? Snag I Love Capri and dive into Belinda Jones’s sun-soaked world of romance and adventure!