Picture a Texas-born storyteller who spins tales of magic, mystery, and romance with a side of celebrity sparkle—meet Candace Havens! A bestselling author with over 35 novels, Havens has charmed readers with her young adult fantasy, cozy mysteries, and heartwarming romances. But her story doesn’t stop at the page—she’s also a leading entertainment journalist, a mentor to thousands of writers, and a radio personality who’s interviewed everyone from Tom Hanks to Chris Pratt.
From her roots in the Lone Star State to her vibrant career, Havens blends small-town warmth with big-city flair, creating stories that feel like a cozy chat with a friend. Whether she’s crafting a witchy adventure or solving a murder in Sweet River, Texas, her work is as diverse as her life. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore!
The Making of Candace Havens
Born in Texas, Candace Havens grew up with a passion for storytelling, nurtured by her education at Houston’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and the University of North Texas. Her 17-year career in entertainment journalism kicked off with thousands of articles and celebrity interviews, giving her a front-row seat to Hollywood’s glitz. But writing novels was her true calling. In 2005, she debuted with Charmed & Dangerous, launching a career that would blend her love for fantasy, romance, and mystery.
Havens’s journalism career, including her role as a columnist for Tribune Media and film reviews on 96.3 KSCS’s Hawkeye in the Morning, honed her knack for engaging audiences. As a former President of the Television Critics Association, she built a reputation as a sharp, charismatic voice, which carried into her fiction. Her Texas roots and media savvy shaped her approachable yet dynamic writing style.
Candace Havens’s Unforgettable Stories
Havens’s bibliography is a treasure trove of genres, with over 35 novels spanning young adult fantasy, paranormal romance, and cozy mysteries. Her Bronwyn the Witch series, starting with Charmed & Dangerous (2005), follows a sassy witch balancing magic and romance in Sweet, Texas. Packed with humor and steamy encounters, it’s a fan favorite for its quirky characters and fast-paced plots.
The Ainsley McGregor series, beginning with A Case for the Winemaker (2020), dives into cozy mysteries. Ainsley, a former professor turned artisan market owner, solves murders with her Great Dane, George Clooney, in tow. These books blend small-town charm with clever whodunits, perfect for fans of Hallmark Mysteries. Havens also penned Joss Whedon: The Genius Behind Buffy, a biography showcasing her entertainment expertise, and contributed to anthologies with her signature emotional depth.
Known for strong female leads and genre-blending, Havens’s style is accessible yet layered, weaving romance, humor, and suspense. Her Texas settings add authenticity, while her journalism background infuses her plots with vivid detail. Nominated for RITA, Holt Medallion, and Write Touch Reader Awards, her work resonates with readers craving heartfelt, escapist fun.
Why Candace Havens Matters
Candace Havens’s impact goes beyond her novels. Through her free online writing workshop, serving over 2,000 aspiring authors, and her comprehensive writing classes, she’s a mentor who empowers new voices. Her ability to juggle journalism, fiction, and teaching reflects her dedication to storytelling in all its forms. Havens’s stories, with their relatable heroines and vibrant settings, offer readers a joyful escape while celebrating resilience and community.
In cozy mysteries and young adult fantasy, Havens has carved a niche for inclusive, engaging narratives. Her work, like the Ainsley McGregor series adapted for Great American Family, bridges books and screen, expanding her influence. As a Texas trailblazer, she’s proof that passion and perseverance can create a lasting legacy.
- Born: Texas, USA
- Key Works: Charmed & Dangerous, A Case for the Winemaker, Joss Whedon: The Genius Behind Buffy
- Awards: Holt Medallion winner, RITA nominee, Barbara Wilson Award
- Fun Fact: Her Great Dane in the Ainsley McGregor series is named after George Clooney!
Snag A Case for the Winemaker or Charmed & Dangerous and dive into Candace Havens’s magical, mystery-filled world! Whether you’re a cozy mystery buff or a fantasy fan, her stories promise a delightful escape.