Picture an Oregonian storyteller who spins tales of love and scandal with a quill dipped in heart and humor—meet Darcy Burke! A USA Today bestselling author, Burke has enchanted romance readers with her steamy historical and contemporary novels, most notably her beloved Secrets & Scandals series. From Regency England to small-town Oregon, her stories pulse with emotional depth, witty heroines, and heroes who steal hearts.
With a knack for crafting swoon-worthy narratives, Burke balances her prolific writing career with family life, volunteer work, and a love for Disneyland. Her journey from a young dreamer scribbling swan love stories to a romance powerhouse is as captivating as her books.
The Making of Darcy Burke
Born and raised in a Portland, Oregon suburb, Darcy Burke grew up weaving stories in her head, playing house in a two-level backyard, and stargazing with her dad. Her creative spark ignited early—she wrote her first book at age 11, a whimsical happily-ever-after about magical swans, complete with charmingly terrible illustrations. After a career in technical writing and project management, Burke’s passion for romance led her to fiction. In 2008, her talent shone when she finaled in the prestigious Golden Heart® contest, marking her ascent in the romance world.
Now living on the edge of Oregon’s wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, two creative kids, and a menagerie of cats, Burke draws inspiration from her roots. Her love for community shines through her serial volunteering, though she jokingly admits she’s still learning to say “no.”
Darcy Burke’s Unforgettable Stories
Burke’s bibliography sparkles with over sixty novels and novellas, spanning Regency romance to contemporary sagas. Her Secrets & Scandals series, launched in 2012 with Her Wicked Ways, follows spirited heroines and roguish heroes navigating love and societal intrigue. In Her Wicked Ways, Lady Miranda Sinclair, banished for reckless behavior, finds redemption and romance with a dashing highwayman. His Wicked Heart, the steamy sequel, dives into the complex life of Jasper Sinclair, an earl bound by a risky pact.
The Untouchables series explores London’s elite, with tales of forbidden love and secret identities, while Ribbon Ridge, a contemporary series, captures family dynamics in Oregon’s wine country. Burke’s style blends sensual romance with emotional depth, her characters leaping off the page with wit and vulnerability. Whether it’s a Regency rogue or a modern vintner, her stories celebrate love’s transformative power.
Burke’s historical romances, praised by authors like Courtney Milan, are lauded for their vivid settings and compelling characters. Her contemporary works, like the Ribbon Ridge series, weave heartfelt family sagas with small-town charm, reflecting her Oregonian roots.
Why Darcy Burke Matters
Darcy Burke’s impact on romance fiction lies in her ability to craft stories that resonate across eras. Her heroines—bold, resourceful, and often defiant of convention—inspire readers to embrace their own strength. By blending historical accuracy with modern sensibilities, she makes Regency romance accessible and relatable. Her contemporary novels, rooted in community and family, offer a cozy escape for readers craving connection.
Burke’s dedication to her craft and fans, through her Reader Club and active social media presence, fosters a loyal community. Her volunteer spirit and family-oriented life add authenticity to her storytelling, making her a beloved figure in romance literature.
About Darcy Burke
- Birthplace: Portland, Oregon
- Key Works: Secrets & Scandals, The Untouchables, Ribbon Ridge
- Fun Fact: She’s a Disneyland enthusiast and a serial volunteer.
- First Book: Her Wicked Ways (2012)
Ready to fall in love? Snag Her Wicked Ways and dive into Darcy Burke’s irresistible world of romance and scandal!