Picture a Texas-born storyteller who swept readers into the elegant ballrooms of Regency England with her captivating romance novels—meet Candace Camp! A New York Times bestselling author, Camp has penned over 60 novels since 1978, blending heart-fluttering love stories with mystery and wit. Her journey from law school to romance royalty is as inspiring as her tales of dashing heroes and spirited heroines.
The Making of Candace Camp
Born on May 23, 1949, in Amarillo, Texas, Candace Pauline Camp grew up in a newspaper family, with her mother, Lula Mae, a reporter, and her father, Grady, managing the business side of the Amarillo newspaper. Storytelling came naturally—she was crafting tales by age 10, using whatever objects were at hand. After studying at the University of Texas at Austin and West Texas State University, Camp pursued a law degree at the University of North Carolina. She briefly practiced law, but her heart belonged to writing. In 1978, she debuted with Bonds of Love under the pseudonym Lisa Gregory, kicking off a prolific career.
Candace Camp’s Unforgettable Stories
Camp’s novels are a love letter to romance, especially Regency England, where her sharp dialogue and vivid settings shine. Her bestselling Matchmakers series, including The Marriage Wager (2007) and The Bridal Quest (2008), follows spirited heroines navigating love and society’s rules with the help of a clever matchmaker. A Stolen Heart from the Lost Heirs series weaves mystery and romance as an American heiress clashes with a reclusive lord during the French Terror’s aftermath. The Stonecliffe series, like An Affair at Stonecliffe (2023), pairs enemies-to-lovers tropes with gripping mysteries. Camp’s style—witty banter, layered characters, and a knack for blending romance with suspense—keeps readers hooked.
Writing under pseudonyms like Kristin James and Sharon Stephens early on, Camp explored diverse settings, from Texas ranches to Scottish highlands. Her Regency romances, however, remain her hallmark, earning praise for their “clever and witty banter” and “utterly likable characters.” With over 60 novels, she’s a master of crafting stories that feel both timeless and fresh.
Why Candace Camp Matters
Candace Camp’s impact on the romance genre is undeniable. Her ability to weave historical accuracy with emotional depth has made her a favorite among readers who crave both escapism and substance. Her heroines—independent, witty, and relatable—resonate with modern audiences, while her heroes balance charm and complexity. Awards like the RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award for Western Romances highlight her versatility. Camp’s influence extends to her daughter, Anastasia Hopcus, a young adult author, proving storytelling runs in the family. Her novels continue to inspire romance fans to dream of love in grand, historical settings.
- Born: May 23, 1949, Amarillo, Texas
- Key Works: The Marriage Wager, A Stolen Heart, An Affair at Stonecliffe
- Awards: RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award for Western Romances
- Fun Fact: Camp once wrote under four different names!
Ready to fall in love with Regency romance? Snag The Marriage Wager and dive into Candace Camp’s enchanting world of wit, passion, and happily-ever-afters!