Picture a New England storyteller who swapped gritty crime reporting for tales of love and happy endings—meet Jane Goodger! Writing under her pen name Jane Blackwood, this bestselling American romance novelist has enchanted readers with her vivid historical romances. From her heartwarming Christmas series to the time-traveling charm of When There Is Hope, Goodger’s stories promise brilliance, kindness, and a touch of Victorian magic.
Born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Goodger’s journey from journalist to romance author is as captivating as her novels. Her knack for crafting worlds where love conquers all has made her a beloved figure in historical romance, inviting readers to escape into stories of second chances and heartfelt connections.
The Making of Jane Goodger
Jane Goodger, born Jane Blackwood, grew up in western Massachusetts, where her love for storytelling took root early. At six, she penned her first tale—about a worm who didn’t want to be a worm! After a 12-year stint as a journalist covering crime for community papers, Goodger found real life too grim. She pivoted to romance, driven by a desire to create worlds where women shine, men are dashing, and every story ends happily. Now living in Rhode Island with her husband and three children, she balances writing with sea glass hunting and dodging housework.
Jane Goodger’s Unforgettable Stories
Goodger’s bibliography spans 22 books across five series, blending Victorian romance with rich characters and emotional depth. Her debut, When There Is Hope (1996), follows Susan Butler, a modern woman waking in 1888 as a despised wife, weaving time travel and redemption into a poignant love story. The Christmas series, starting with Marry Christmas (2008), captures the magic of holiday romance, as Elizabeth Cummings navigates an arranged marriage to a charming duke.
The Brides of St. Ives series, including The Reluctant Duchess (2019), showcases Goodger’s knack for strong heroines facing societal pressures. Her Lords and Ladies series, like When a Duke Says I Do (2011), blends mystery and passion. Goodger’s style—marked by witty dialogue, historical accuracy, and sizzling chemistry—earns praise for its heartwarming escapism. Reviewers call her work “fun, delightfully romantic—and sexy,” a testament to her ability to balance humor and heartfelt emotion.
Why Jane Goodger Matters
Jane Goodger’s impact lies in her ability to craft escapist yet relatable tales. Her novels offer readers a refuge where love triumphs, resonating with fans of authors like Sabrina Jeffries. By portraying resilient women navigating love and loss, she’s carved a niche in historical romance, inspiring readers to believe in second chances. Her transition from journalism to romance reflects her belief in rewriting life’s endings—a legacy that continues to charm readers worldwide.
- Pen Name: Jane Blackwood
- First Book: When There Is Hope (1996)
- Key Series: Christmas, Brides of St. Ives, Lords and Ladies
- Award: HOLT Medallion Winner
Ready to fall in love with Jane Goodger’s Victorian world? Snag When There Is Hope or Marry Christmas and dive into her irresistible blend of romance and redemption!