Picture a Kentucky-born storyteller who swept readers into worlds of passion, adventure, and timeless love—meet Jude Deveraux! With over 70 novels and 60 million copies sold worldwide, this historical romance icon has captivated hearts for decades. Known for strong heroines and richly detailed settings, Deveraux’s stories, like A Knight in Shining Armor, blend love with a touch of magic.
From her debut in 1977 to her latest works, Deveraux has mastered the art of romance, earning spots on The New York Times Best Seller list and a Romantic Times Pioneer Award. Whether you’re new to her sagas or a longtime fan, her tales of the Montgomery and Taggert families are sure to enchant.
The Making of Jude Deveraux
Born Jude Gilliam on September 20, 1947, in Fairdale, Kentucky, Deveraux grew up in a tight-knit family, the eldest of four siblings. Her love for the arts led her to Murray State University, where she studied fiber arts and ceramics, even joining the varsity rifle team. After teaching fifth grade in New Mexico, she penned her first novel, The Enchanted Land, in 1977. Its warm reception prompted her to leave teaching and dive into writing full-time, adopting the pen name Jude Deveraux.
Jude Deveraux’s Unforgettable Stories
Deveraux’s novels are a love letter to historical romance, featuring fierce heroines who defy convention. Her Montgomery and Taggert family saga, spanning centuries, is a fan favorite. A Knight in Shining Armor (1989) is a standout, blending time travel with a heartfelt romance between a modern woman and a 16th-century knight. The Black Lyon (1980) kicks off the Montgomery series with a medieval tale of love and loyalty.
The Edilean series, set in a charming Virginia town, mixes historical and contemporary romance. Lavender Morning (2009) introduces Jocelyn Minton, who uncovers family secrets and love in Edilean, while Days of Gold (2009) follows Angus McTern and Edilean Talbot on a thrilling 18th-century adventure. Deveraux’s later works, like The Girl From Summer Hill (2016), reimagine classics like Pride and Prejudice with modern flair, showcasing her versatility.
Her style weaves vivid historical details with emotional depth, often incorporating time travel or paranormal elements. Whether set in post-Revolutionary America or 19th-century Colorado, her stories celebrate love’s triumph over obstacles, earning her a devoted readership.
Why Jude Deveraux Matters
Jude Deveraux redefined historical romance by crafting heroines who are as bold as they are relatable, inspiring readers to embrace their strength. Her ability to blend history, romance, and mystery has influenced countless authors and kept her books on bestseller lists for decades. With over 36 novels on The New York Times Best Seller list by 2010, her impact is undeniable.
Beyond her literary success, Deveraux’s stories offer escapism and empowerment, resonating with readers worldwide. Her recent Medlar Mystery series, including An Unfinished Murder (2024), proves she’s still a storytelling force, delighting fans with new genres and familiar families.
- Born: September 20, 1947, Fairdale, Kentucky
- Key Works: A Knight in Shining Armor, The Black Lyon, Lavender Morning
- Awards: Romantic Times Pioneer Award (2013)
- Fun Fact: She writes all her novels by hand!
Ready to fall in love with Jude Deveraux’s world? Grab A Knight in Shining Armor and lose yourself in her timeless historical romance!