Picture an American storyteller whose sparkling romantic adventures whisk readers from Regency England to secret Martian colonies—meet Brenda Hiatt! A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Hiatt has penned over two dozen novels that blend romance, adventure, and a touch of whimsy. But her story isn’t just about books; it’s about diving into life’s thrills, from scuba diving to Tae-kwon-do, and empowering writers with hard-earned industry insights.
Born in Washington, D.C., Hiatt’s journey is as vibrant as her tales. With a knack for storytelling that began in childhood, she’s crafted worlds that captivate readers, all while embracing indie publishing and living life to the fullest. Ready to dive into her sparkling universe?
The Making of Brenda Hiatt
Brenda Hiatt’s path to literary stardom started with a love for stories that sparked in her youth. Armed with degrees in biology and psychology from the College of William and Mary, she briefly pursued graduate studies at Texas A&M before life took her on a different adventure. As an army wife with two young children, she began writing in 1988, selling her first Regency romance to Harlequin just before her self-imposed deadline. Her early years were shaped by frequent moves across Hawaii, South Carolina, Texas, and Indiana, each new place fueling her research and imagination. Now settled in Key Largo, Florida, with her husband and two children, Hiatt’s eclectic background infuses her work with rich, diverse perspectives.
Brenda Hiatt’s Unforgettable Stories
Hiatt’s novels are a delightful blend of romance and adventure, spanning genres from historical romance to young adult science fiction. Her acclaimed Starstruck series, starting with the award-winning Starstruck (2013), follows Marsha, a nerdy teen who discovers her cosmic destiny as a Martian princess. This electrifying blend of teen romance and sci-fi has won multiple awards, including first place in the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. Scandalous Virtue (1999), a Regency romance, earned the American Book Readers Association Award, showcasing Hiatt’s knack for witty, heartfelt historical tales. Ship of Dreams (2000), set in colonial America, weaves a tale of passion and deception, while Bridge Over Time (1994) explores time-travel romance with charm.
Hiatt’s writing style is sparkling and accessible, with relatable characters and uplifting happily-ever-afters. Whether crafting a Regency heroine navigating societal norms or a teen unraveling interplanetary secrets, her stories balance humor, heart, and high stakes. Her transition to indie publishing allowed her to reclaim older works and release new ones, like Mindbound (2023), directly to fans, cementing her versatility and staying power.
Why Brenda Hiatt Matters
Brenda Hiatt’s impact extends beyond her novels. As a past president of Novelists, Inc., and a longtime member of Romance Writers of America, she’s a pillar in the writing community. Her annual “Show Me the Money” survey, which compiles data on writers’ earnings, empowers authors to make informed career decisions, earning her industry-wide respect. By embracing indie publishing, she’s shown how authors can take control of their careers, inspiring a new generation of writers. Her stories, with their universal themes of love and discovery, resonate with readers craving escapism and hope, making her a beloved figure in romantic fiction.
- Born: Washington, D.C.
- Key Works: Starstruck, Scandalous Virtue, Ship of Dreams
- Awards: American Book Readers Association Award (1999), National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award
- Fun Fact: Hiatt has over 60 scuba dives and is pursuing her 4th-degree black belt in Tae-kwon-do.
Snag Starstruck and dive into Brenda Hiatt’s sparkling romantic adventures—your heart will thank you!