Picture a Southern storyteller who brought the charming town of Valentine, Oklahoma, to life—meet Curtiss Ann Matlock! With her warm, witty romance novels, this North Carolina native has captured the hearts of readers worldwide, weaving tales of love, laughter, and small-town grace. Her beloved Valentine series and evocative Southern voice have made her a cherished name in contemporary romance.
With over 38 novels, millions of copies sold, and a knack for portraying the grit and glory of everyday people, Matlock’s stories resonate with humor and heart. Whether you’re craving a cozy read or a journey through Southern charm, her books are a delightful escape.
The Making of Curtiss Ann Matlock
Born in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Curtiss Ann Matlock grew up in a family of avid readers, diving into books before first grade. Her early love for stories bloomed into writing vignettes in elementary school. After a nomadic childhood in a military family, she settled in rural Oklahoma with her husband, raising their son and a few horses. Her writing career sparked in her thirties with two heartfelt articles, earning her $100 and the confidence to pen her first novel. At the University of Oklahoma’s Professional Writing program, under mentors like Carolyn Hart, she honed her craft, selling her debut romance, A Time and a Season, to Silhouette Books in 1985.
Curtiss Ann Matlock’s Unforgettable Stories
Matlock’s novels are a love letter to Southern life, blending romance, humor, and the resilience of ordinary folks. Her Valentine series, starting with Love in a Small Town (1997), follows the lives of quirky characters in a fictional Oklahoma town. The series’ standout, Lost Highways (1999), earned a RITA nomination for its poignant tale of healing and love. Driving Lessons (2000) explores a mother’s journey after her husband’s departure, while Sweet Dreams at the Goodnight Motel (2004), a finalist for an Oklahoma Book Award, captures small-town dreams with humor and heart.
Beyond the Valentine series, Matlock’s standalone works shine. Miracle on I-40 (2005) is a Christmas classic about a trucker and a waitress finding family, while Heaven in Texas won a National Readers’ Choice Award for its tender romance. Her strong Southern voice, rich with local color and wisdom, portrays characters who face heartbreak with faith and humor, making her stories universally relatable.
Published in 20 languages with over 7 million copies in print, Matlock’s books have graced USA TODAY bestseller lists. Her three RITA nominations, two National Readers’ Choice Awards, and a Christopher Award highlight her storytelling prowess. Fans adore her ability to make small-town life feel magical yet grounded.
Why Curtiss Ann Matlock Matters
Curtiss Ann Matlock’s impact lies in her celebration of the human spirit. Her stories of love and resilience resonate with readers seeking hope and connection, especially in the romance genre. By portraying the ‘secret lives of ordinary people,’ she elevates everyday struggles into tales of valor and grace, earning praise from outlets like the Detroit Free Press. Her Valentine series has created a fictional haven fans return to, fostering a loyal community.
Now living in south Alabama, Matlock continues to write, garden, and RV, infusing her work with the same warmth that defines her life. Her legacy endures in the hearts of readers who find solace in her Southern stories of grit and grace.
- Birthplace: Elizabeth City, North Carolina
- Key Works: Valentine series, Miracle on I-40, Heaven in Texas
- Awards: Two National Readers’ Choice Awards, three RITA nominations, Christopher Award
- Fun Fact: She started reading before first grade!
Snag Love in a Small Town and dive into Curtiss Ann Matlock’s heartwarming world of Southern romance!