Picture a storyteller who spins tales of heart-pounding romance and high-stakes suspense in the wilds of Alaska—meet Jemma Westbrook! This dynamic author, also known by her real name Janice Whiteaker and pen name Josie Watts, has carved a niche in romantic suspense with her bestselling Alaskan Security-Team Rogue series. Since bursting onto the scene in 2019 with Loss Recovery, Westbrook’s knack for crafting sassy heroines and protective heroes has hooked readers worldwide.
With a playful yet thrilling style, Westbrook balances steamy chemistry, witty banter, and edge-of-your-seat action. Her stories aren’t just about love—they’re about resilience, trust, and facing danger head-on. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this multifaceted writer who’s redefining modern romance.
The Making of Jemma Westbrook
Born at Kettering Medical Center and raised in Miamisburg, Ohio, Janice Whiteaker—aka Jemma Westbrook—didn’t always dream of being a writer. A former hairstylist for over 15 years, she found solace in reading women’s fiction while raising three kids on a farm-ish homestead in Springboro, Ohio. Frustrated by endless toddler talk of “poop and farts,” she decided to try her hand at writing. What started as an escape became a passion, fueled by her discovery of K.M. Weiland’s outlining techniques. In 2016, she published her first novel, Run, under her real name, but it was as Jemma Westbrook that she found her true calling in romantic suspense.
Jemma Westbrook’s Unforgettable Stories
Westbrook’s Alaskan Security-Team Rogue series is her crown jewel, kicking off with Loss Recovery in 2019. The novel follows Wade Denison, a rugged Team Rogue member, and Bess Hines, a fierce single mom hiding in Alaska. Their second-chance romance, laced with a secret baby twist and a dangerous stalker, sets the tone for the series’ blend of action and heart. Fans rave about the “sexy alpha males” and “strong, intelligent” heroines, with over 3,000 Amazon reviews praising its fast-paced plot and lovable characters.
Other standout titles include Counterfeit Relations, a tale of deception and desire, and Point of Contact, the series’ 2023 finale, which delivers a high-speed road trip and enemies-to-lovers sparks between Courtney and Reed. Westbrook’s style shines through her vivid settings, sharp dialogue, and themes of chosen family and redemption. Whether it’s a hacker outsmarting a mole in Enemy Territory or a slow-burn romance in Strategic Maneuvers, her stories celebrate women with “backbones of steel” and the men who stand by them.
Writing as Josie Watts, she pens laugh-out-loud romantic comedies in the Scandal in Sweet Side series, while her Janice Whiteaker novels explore contemporary romance. This genre-hopping versatility keeps her fanbase growing, with readers eagerly awaiting new Alaskan Security spinoffs featuring teams like Shadow and Ghost.
Why Jemma Westbrook Matters
Jemma Westbrook’s impact lies in her ability to craft relatable, empowering characters who resonate with readers. Her strong female leads—like Bess, who faces a maniacal ex, or Harlow, a hacker with a painful past—inspire fans to embrace their own resilience. By weaving external conflicts into her romances, Westbrook avoids cliché angst, delivering satisfying happily-ever-afters that feel earned. Her Alaskan Security series has become a fan favorite, with readers calling it “addictive” for its mix of suspense, humor, and heart.
Through her active Facebook reader group, Westbrook connects with fans, sharing updates and quirky glimpses into her life—like her love for whiskey and canning vegetables. Her journey from stay-at-home mom to prolific author proves that passion and persistence can redefine a career, inspiring aspiring writers to take the leap.
- Born: Kettering, Ohio
- Key Works: Loss Recovery (2019), Point of Contact (2023), Scandal in Sweet Side series (as Josie Watts)
- Genres: Romantic suspense, contemporary romance, romantic comedy
- Hobbies: Camping, gardening, home renovations
Ready for a thrilling ride? Snag Loss Recovery and dive into Jemma Westbrook’s world of steamy suspense and unbreakable bonds!