Picture a Colorado-born storyteller who turned fairy-tale villains into swoon-worthy heroes—meet Emily McIntire! This #1 New York Times bestselling author has taken contemporary romance by storm with her steamy, emotionally charged novels. From small-town heartaches to dark, fractured fairy tales, McIntire’s ability to twist genre conventions and craft unforgettable characters has made her a fan favorite.
Born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, McIntire’s journey from a passionate reader to a literary powerhouse is as inspiring as her books. A stage IV breast cancer thriver, she infuses her stories with raw emotion and soul-deep love, captivating readers worldwide.
The Making of Emily McIntire
Growing up in Boulder, Emily McIntire was always scribbling poems and song lyrics, her love for words blooming early. Her knack for storytelling developed alongside her songwriting, giving her a lyrical edge that shines in her prose. After a life-altering breast cancer diagnosis at 31, McIntire channeled her resilience into writing. In 2020, she debuted with Beneath the Stars, launching her career with a story that hooked readers instantly.
Her Colorado roots and personal experiences—love, loss, and triumph—shape her narratives. McIntire’s ability to draw from real-life emotions while pushing creative boundaries has set her apart in the romance genre.
Emily McIntire’s Unforgettable Stories
McIntire’s Sugarlake series, a four-book saga of interconnected standalones, dives into small-town romance with angsty, second-chance love stories. Beneath the Stars (2020) introduces Alina and Chase, whose childhood bond evolves into a heart-wrenching romance. Each book, from Beneath the Stands to Beneath the Surface, weaves complex characters and emotional depth, earning praise for its relatable yet unpredictable plots.
The Never After series, however, is where McIntire’s creativity truly shines. This dark romance collection reimagines fairy-tale villains as antiheroes with happy endings. Hooked (2021), inspired by Peter Pan, follows James Hook in a gritty, adult romance. Titles like Scarred (The Lion King) and Hexed (The Little Mermaid) blend steam, slow burns, and morally gray characters, translated into over a dozen languages. Her versatility also shines in collaborations, like the mystery romance Be Still My Heart with Sav R. Miller.
McIntire’s style—lyrical, bold, and unapologetically emotional—flips romance tropes upside down. Her villains-turned-heroes and flawed, relatable protagonists keep readers glued to the page, while her knack for witty dialogue adds a playful spark.
Why Emily McIntire Matters
Emily McIntire’s impact on contemporary romance lies in her fearless reinvention of the genre. By giving villains their own love stories, she challenges readers to embrace complex characters and question traditional narratives. Her Never After series has redefined dark romance, blending fairy-tale nostalgia with modern, steamy twists that resonate globally.
As a breast cancer thriver, McIntire uses her platform to uplift others, sharing her journey with authenticity. Her upcoming Defying the Stars series, starting with Burning Daylight (2025), a Romeo and Juliet-inspired tale, promises more gritty, star-crossed romance. McIntire’s ability to connect with readers through raw emotion and bold storytelling ensures her legacy will only grow.
About Emily McIntire
- Born: Boulder, Colorado
- Key Works: Sugarlake series, Never After series, Be Still My Heart
- Notable: #1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author
- Fun Fact: A songwriter at heart, her lyrical prose reflects her musical roots
Snag Hooked or Beneath the Stars and dive into Emily McIntire’s world of steamy, soulful romance!