Picture a Korean American storyteller who swapped courtrooms for captivating romance novels—meet Jayci Lee! Bursting onto the literary scene in 2020, Lee crafts poignant, sexy, and laugh-out-loud romances that celebrate Asian American love stories. With a mission to challenge stereotypes and amplify diverse voices, her books have charmed readers and critics alike, landing in outlets like O, The Oprah Magazine and Cosmopolitan.
From her sunny California home, where she lives with her dashing husband, two energetic boys, and a distractingly fluffy dog, Lee weaves tales that blend heart, humor, and heat. Her journey from defense lawyer to bestselling author is as inspiring as the heroines she creates, making her a standout in contemporary romance.
The Making of Jayci Lee
Born to Korean immigrant parents, Jayci Lee grew up with a love for stories, discovering Harlequin romances at thirteen. A stellar student, she graduated magna cum laude from UC Berkeley and earned a J.D. from USC, embarking on a 15-year career as a defense litigator. Yet, the pull of storytelling never faded. At fourteen, she dreamed of writing romance, but societal expectations led her to law. A mental health break during her legal career sparked a turning point—she penned her first novel in just two months, reigniting her passion and setting her on the path to authorship.
Jayci Lee’s Unforgettable Stories
Lee’s novels are a vibrant blend of romance, wit, and cultural pride, featuring Korean American protagonists who defy stereotypes. Her debut, Temporary Wife Temptation (2020), a Harlequin Desire novel, kicks off the Heirs of Hansol series with a steamy marriage-of-convenience trope, earning a spot on Oprah Magazine’s best romances of 2020. A Sweet Mess (2020), a delightful rom-com, follows a baker and a food critic entangled by a cake mix-up, with mouthwatering food descriptions that leave readers hungry.
Booked on a Feeling (2022) explores a lawyer’s journey to rediscover hope through books and love, showcasing Lee’s knack for emotional depth. Her recent foray into romantasy, Nine Tailed (2024), melds Korean folklore with modern flair, proving her versatility. Lee’s style shines through strong, independent heroines, respectful heroes, and themes of consent and empowerment, all wrapped in a playful, heartfelt tone.
With over nine published works, including the Hana Trio series and upcoming rom-coms, Lee’s stories resonate for their authenticity and joy. Her vivid settings—often inspired by her love for food, wine, and travel—transport readers from California’s cozy towns to glamorous Los Angeles.
Why Jayci Lee Matters
Jayci Lee’s impact extends beyond her page-turning plots. As an #OwnVoices author, she champions Asian American representation in a genre where diverse leads were once rare. Her novels normalize Korean Americans as integral to the American narrative, challenging the “othering” she observed growing up. By choosing romance, a genre with vast reach, Lee ensures her empowering messages reach a wide audience, shifting perspectives with every love story.
Her transition from law to writing also inspires aspiring authors, proving it’s never too late to chase dreams. Lee’s books offer readers hope, healing, and a celebration of love that transcends cultural boundaries, making her a vital voice in modern romance.
- Debut Novel: Temporary Wife Temptation (2020)
- Key Series: Heirs of Hansol, Sweet Mess, Hana Trio
- Notable Recognition: Featured in O, The Oprah Magazine, Cosmopolitan, and Entertainment Weekly
- Fun Fact: Loves food, wine, and travel, which inspire her vivid settings
About Jayci Lee
Ready to fall in love with Jayci Lee’s world? Snag A Sweet Mess or Booked on a Feeling and dive into her heartwarming, steamy romances today!