Picture a Virginia-born storyteller who swapped hurricanes for heart-fluttering romance at a Renaissance Faire—meet Jen DeLuca! This USA Today bestselling author has woven her love for corsets, kilts, and witty banter into a beloved series that’s as charming as a summer festival. With her debut novel Well Met, Jen transformed her pub wench adventures into rom-com gold, captivating readers with her knack for blending humor, heart, and historical flair.
Now living in Arizona with her husband and a houseful of rescue pets, Jen’s journey from Renaissance Faire volunteer to literary star is as enchanting as her stories. Her books, brimming with flower crowns and swoon-worthy moments, have made her a standout in contemporary romance, proving that love can bloom amid turkey legs and tarot cards.
The Making of Jen DeLuca
Born and raised near Richmond, Virginia, Jen DeLuca grew up with a passion for storytelling that bloomed early, thanks to her mother teaching her to read at a young age. After graduating from Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!), she ventured to Florida, where she spent over two decades soaking up sunshine and inspiration. Her eclectic career—wardrobe master, ice show dresser, fountain pen seller, and paralegal—added colorful threads to her creative tapestry. But it was her time as a pub wench at the Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire in Tavares, Florida, that sparked her literary fire. The way a corset changed her posture and persona fascinated her, planting the seed for her breakout novel.
Jen’s writing journey took a serious turn in 2010 during NaNoWriMo, when she penned a romance novel that ignited her passion. Workshops, mentorships, and Pitch Wars honed her craft, and by 2016, she signed with an agent. Though her first manuscript didn’t sell, Well Met became her ticket to stardom, inspired by the vibrant community and transformative magic of the Renaissance Faire.
Jen DeLuca’s Unforgettable Stories
Jen DeLuca’s bibliography is a love letter to romance fans, with her Well Met series stealing the spotlight. Set in the fictional Willow Creek, Maryland, these novels revolve around a local Renaissance Faire, where love blossoms amid jousting and jesting. Well Met (2019) follows Emily and Simon, whose playful flirtations in costume turn into real sparks, earning praise for its fresh take on rom-coms. Well Played (2020) dives into Stacey’s story, blending flower crowns and fake relationships with heartfelt depth. Well Matched (2021) explores single mom April’s journey, complete with kilts and sword fights, while Well Traveled (2022) follows attorney Lulu and guitarist Dex on a road-trip romance across multiple Faires.
Beyond the Well Met series, Jen ventured into paranormal romance with her Boneyard Key series. Haunted Ever After (2024) introduces a haunted Florida tourist town, weaving ghostly charm into her signature humor. Its sequel, Ghost Business (2025), promises more supernatural shenanigans. Jen’s style is light yet poignant, with snappy dialogue and slow-burn chemistry that keeps readers hooked. Her settings feel lived-in, from Willow Creek’s cozy bookstore to Boneyard Key’s eerie cafés, grounding her stories in relatable warmth.
Why Jen DeLuca Matters
Jen DeLuca’s impact lies in her ability to celebrate niche communities like the Renaissance Faire, often mocked in pop culture, with authenticity and love. Her books have inspired readers to attend, volunteer, or even perform at local Faires, fostering a sense of belonging among fans. By crafting heroines who find strength in vulnerability and heroes who embrace emotional growth, Jen has carved a space in contemporary romance that feels both fresh and timeless. Her work resonates with those who crave stories about transformation, community, and second chances, earning her a loyal following and critical acclaim, including nominations for Goodreads Choice Awards.
From Bookstagram buzz to features in Entertainment Weekly and NPR, Jen’s rise as a debut author highlights her knack for connecting with readers. Her stories remind us that love, like a good Faire, is a place where everyone can shine.
- Birthplace: Near Richmond, Virginia
- Key Works: Well Met, Well Played, Well Matched, Well Traveled, Haunted Ever After
- Notable Trait: Inspired by her Renaissance Faire volunteering
- Fun Fact: Jen loves the Oxford comma and latte-flavored lattes
Ready to fall in love with Jen DeLuca’s world? Snag Well Met and dive into her swoon-worthy rom-coms today!