Picture an American storyteller who spins tales of ghosts, werewolves, and steamy romance with a wink and a smile—meet Carrie Pulkinen! A USA Today bestselling author, Pulkinen has enchanted readers with her paranormal romance novels, blending supernatural thrills with heartfelt happily-ever-afters. Growing up next to a cemetery, she’s always had a fascination with the eerie, making her a natural fit for crafting vivid worlds where love conquers all, even the undead.
With series like Crescent City Wolf Pack and New Orleans Nocturnes, Pulkinen has carved a unique niche in paranormal romance, earning critical acclaim and a devoted global readership. Her witty, imaginative stories are as addictive as dark chocolate, and her ability to push the genre’s boundaries keeps fans coming back for more. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this spellbinding author!
The Making of Carrie Pulkinen
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Carrie Pulkinen’s childhood was anything but ordinary. Living next door to a cemetery sparked her lifelong obsession with the paranormal, where ghosts and the undead felt like neighbors. This eerie backdrop, paired with her love for storytelling, set the stage for her future as a writer. Before picking up the pen, Pulkinen spent a decade as a high school journalism and yearbook teacher, honing her craft while inspiring others to write.
After years of teaching, she took a leap of faith to focus on her own stories, blending her passion for romance with her fascination for the supernatural. Her transition from educator to full-time author was a bold move, but one that paid off as she quickly rose to prominence in the paranormal romance genre. Today, she continues to write from Houston, drawing inspiration from her family, travels, and the occasional glass of red wine.
Carrie Pulkinen’s Unforgettable Stories
Pulkinen’s novels are a delightful mix of humor, heart, and supernatural spice, with each story delivering a fresh take on paranormal romance. Her debut, To Catch a Spirit (later re-released as Love at First Haunt), kicked off the Haunted Ever After series, following a psychic medium terrified of ghosts and an empath haunted by one. Fans adore its blend of mystery, romance, and ghostly chills.
The Crescent City Wolf Pack series, a fan favorite, dives into the sultry streets of New Orleans, where werewolves and vampires navigate love and danger. Werewolves Only, a standout, won multiple awards for its gripping tale of a detective and an alpha wolf. Meanwhile, New Orleans Nocturnes offers laugh-out-loud romantic comedies, like License to Bite, where a vampire faints at the sight of blood. Pulkinen’s writing shines with witty dialogue, steamy chemistry, and imaginative world-building, making her books impossible to put down.
Her ability to balance dark paranormal elements with lighthearted romance sets her apart. Whether it’s a cursed witch or a lovesick demon, Pulkinen’s characters leap off the page, their emotional depth resonating with readers. Her stories often explore themes of second chances and overcoming fear, wrapped in a playful tone that keeps the mood uplifting.
Why Carrie Pulkinen Matters
Carrie Pulkinen’s impact on paranormal romance is undeniable. Her innovative storytelling has pushed the genre forward, blending humor and heart in ways that feel fresh yet timeless. With numerous awards, including the Paranormal Romance Guild’s Reviewer’s Choice Awards and InD’tale Magazine’s RONE Awards, she’s earned respect from critics and readers alike. Her global fanbase cherishes her ability to craft escapist fantasies that leave them smiling.
Beyond her books, Pulkinen’s journey from teacher to bestselling author inspires aspiring writers. Her active presence on social media and her newsletter fosters a tight-knit community, making fans feel like part of her world. As she continues to write, her legacy as a trailblazer in paranormal romance grows, proving that love can thrive even in the spookiest of settings.
- Key Works: Love at First Haunt, Werewolves Only, License to Bite
- Awards: Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer’s Choice Awards (2017–2020), InD’tale Magazine RONE Award Finalist
- Hobbies: Reading, traveling, ghost hunting
Snag Love at First Haunt and dive into Carrie Pulkinen’s enchanting paranormal romance today! Whether you’re a fan of ghosts or werewolves, her stories promise a thrilling, heartwarming ride.