Picture a Chicago librarian who swapped dusty tomes for tales of sultry vampires and witty witches—meet Cat Devon, the pen name of Cathie Linz! Known for her paranormal romance novels, Linz enchanted readers with her Entity series, set in the mysterious Vamptown district of Chicago. Her blend of humor, heart, and supernatural sparks made her a beloved voice in romance fiction.
With over 50 novels under her belt, Linz wrote contemporary romances as herself and paranormal tales as Cat Devon, captivating audiences worldwide in nearly 20 languages. Her journey from book lover to award-winning author is as magical as the worlds she created.
The Making of Cathie Linz
Born on November 29, 1954, in Chicago, Cathie Linz was a self-proclaimed 'bookaholic' from an early age. Her love for stories led her to a career as a librarian, where she served as Head of Acquisitions at a university law library. This role nurtured her passion for books, but her creative spark yearned for more. In 1982, she published her first romance novel, Remembrance of Love, launching a prolific career. Linz’s librarian roots and Chicago upbringing infused her stories with authenticity and charm, setting the stage for her later paranormal adventures as Cat Devon.
Cat Devon’s Unforgettable Stories
As Cat Devon, Linz unleashed her imagination in the Entity series, starting with Sleeping with the Entity in 2013. This debut novel introduces Daniella Delaney, a cupcake shop owner tangled with Nick St. George, a vampire clan leader in Chicago’s Vamptown. The story’s mix of quirky humor, steamy romance, and supernatural intrigue hooked readers instantly. The sequel, The Entity Within, follows witch Zoe Adams and demon hunter Damon Thornheart, whose fiery chemistry battles Vamptown’s demonic chaos.
Linz’s paranormal romances stand out for their lighthearted tone and vivid Chicago backdrop. Her characters—like sassy witches and brooding vampires—leap off the page with witty banter and relatable dreams. Later works, like Tall, Dark and Immortal, weave historical depth, connecting vampire detective Alex Sanchez to the Crusades and World War II. Linz’s ability to balance humor, heart, and a touch of danger made her novels a delightful escape for romance fans.
Under her own name, Linz wrote contemporary romances like Good Girls Do, known for their sharp dialogue and charm. Her dual identities showcased her versatility, but her Cat Devon persona let her supernatural creativity soar, earning praise from outlets like Booklist for its 'zingy humor' and 'potent sexual chemistry.'
Why Cathie Linz Matters
Cathie Linz’s impact extends beyond her novels. As a founding member of the Windy City Romance Writers of America chapter and its first Library Liaison, she championed romance fiction in libraries, elevating the genre’s legitimacy. Her advocacy helped romance novels find a home on library shelves, connecting authors and readers. Linz’s seven consecutive starred Booklist reviews underscore her storytelling prowess, while her Entity series continues to captivate paranormal romance fans.
Despite her passing on March 7, 2015, Linz’s legacy endures through her vibrant characters and genre-defining work. Her ability to weave humor and heart into supernatural tales ensures her stories remain timeless, inviting new readers to discover Vamptown’s magic.
- Born: November 29, 1954, Chicago, Illinois
- Key Works: Sleeping with the Entity, The Entity Within, Tall, Dark and Immortal, Good Girls Do
- Awards: Lifetime honorary member of Romance Writers of America
- Pseudonym: Cat Devon for paranormal romance
Ready to sink your teeth into a paranormal romance with a side of cupcakes? Grab Sleeping with the Entity and dive into Cat Devon’s spellbinding Vamptown adventures!