Picture a Utah-born storyteller who turned a childhood dislike for reading into a prolific career crafting cozy mysteries and heartfelt romances—meet Josi S. Kilpack! With over 30 novels, a cookbook, and multiple awards, Kilpack’s journey from reluctant reader to celebrated author is as captivating as her stories, blending culinary charm, historical depth, and relatable characters.
Born in Salt Lake City, Kilpack’s transformation began at 13 when her mother handed her The Witch of Blackbird Pond. This spark ignited a love for books, paving the way for a career that’s delighted readers for over two decades. Today, she’s a household name in cozy mysteries and Regency romance, balancing family life with a disciplined writing routine.
The Making of Josi Kilpack
Josi S. Kilpack was born on May 26, 1974, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the third of nine children. Growing up, she avoided books until her mother’s gift changed everything. After graduating from Olympus High School in 1992, she married Lee Kilpack in 1993, and they raised four children in Willard, Utah. While on bed rest with her third child in 1998, Kilpack penned her first novel, Earning Eternity, discovering a passion that never faded.
A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kilpack’s faith shapes her storytelling, though she writes for a broad audience, avoiding overt religious themes in her mainstream works. Her early novels, published by Cedar Fort, honed her craft, teaching her the ropes of marketing and publishing while building a loyal readership.
Josi Kilpack’s Unforgettable Stories
Kilpack’s bibliography spans cozy mysteries, historical romances, and contemporary fiction under the pen name Jessica Pack. Her 13-book Sadie Hoffmiller Culinary Mystery series, starting with Lemon Tart (2009), follows amateur sleuth Sadie, a homemaker who solves crimes with recipes woven into the narrative. Each book, named after desserts like Banana Split or Wedding Cake, blends suspense with mouthwatering recipes, earning a Whitney Award finalist spot in 2009.
In historical romance, Kilpack shines with the Proper Romance series, including Lord Fenton’s Folly (2015), which won Whitney Awards for Best Romance and Best Novel. Her novels, like A Heart Revealed, explore love and personal growth against Regency-era backdrops, showcasing her knack for vivid characters and emotional depth. Her upcoming Lulu Dupree Mystery series, launching with Someone Is After LuLu Dupree in September 2025, promises fresh intrigue.
Kilpack’s style is accessible yet layered, blending humor, heart, and suspense. Her culinary mysteries appeal to cozy fans, while her romances attract readers seeking clean, uplifting stories. Collaborations, like the Newport Ladies Book Club series, highlight her versatility, weaving interconnected narratives with other authors.
Why Josi Kilpack Matters
Josi Kilpack’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that resonate across genres, from cozy mystery lovers to Regency romance enthusiasts. Her Whitney Awards (2007, 2015, 2019) and Utah Best of State for Fiction (2012) reflect her storytelling prowess. By sharing her journey—from a non-reader to a novelist—she inspires aspiring writers to embrace their craft, emphasizing persistence and skill development.
Kilpack’s engagement with readers, through thoughtful responses to feedback and her active online presence, fosters a loyal community. Her stories, often grounded in themes of family, faith, and resilience, offer comfort and inspiration, making her a beloved figure in clean fiction.
About Josi Kilpack
- Born: May 26, 1974, in Salt Lake City, Utah
- Key Works: Lemon Tart, Lord Fenton’s Folly, A Heart Revealed
- Awards: Four-time Whitney Award winner, Utah Best of State for Fiction (2012)
- Fun Fact: She’s a real estate agent and manages properties alongside writing!
Ready to dive into a cozy mystery or a swoon-worthy romance? Snag Lemon Tart or Lord Fenton’s Folly and discover Josi Kilpack’s delightful worlds!