Picture a storyteller who whisked readers from modern pools to 19th-century wagon trains with a splash of romance—meet June Lund Shiplett! This American romance novelist captivated hearts with her passionate tales, blending historical settings and time-travel twists. Best known for her Yesterday and Wind series, Shiplett’s vivid characters and meticulous detail made her a beloved figure in romance literature.
But Shiplett wasn’t just about steamy love stories. Her 1996 non-fiction work, A Glass Full of Tears, revealed a deeply personal side, chronicling her journey caring for a spouse with dementia. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this remarkable author whose words still resonate.
The Making of June Lund Shiplett
Little is documented about June Lund Shiplett’s early life, but her storytelling prowess suggests a keen observer of human emotions and history. Likely inspired by the sweeping romance novels of the 1970s, Shiplett began her writing career during a golden era for the genre. Her debut, The Raging Winds of Heaven (1978), launched the Kolter Saga, signaling her arrival as a master of historical romance. With no formal biography available, we imagine a woman fueled by curiosity, crafting tales that bridged past and present with effortless charm.
June Lund Shiplett’s Unforgettable Stories
Shiplett’s novels are a tapestry of passion, adventure, and historical richness. Her Yesterday series, starting with Journey to Yesterday (1979), follows Stacey Gordon, a modern nurse hurled into 1865 Ohio. Readers adored the time-travel romance, praising its vivid depiction of 19th-century life and sizzling chemistry between Stacey and widower Ben Clayton. The sequel, Return to Yesterday (1984), tied up loose ends, earning accolades for its heartfelt resolution.
The Kolter Saga, spanning eight books like The Raging Winds of Heaven and Reap the Bitter Winds, weaves tales of fiery heroines like Loedicia Locke navigating love and danger across the American frontier. Shiplett’s standalone novel, Hold Back the Sun (1981), dazzled with its 1890s Southwest setting and complex themes of amnesia and forbidden love. Her style—lush, evocative, and meticulously researched—made every page a journey, blending romance with historical authenticity.
Shiplett’s non-fiction work, A Glass Full of Tears (1996), stands apart. This raw diary of caring for her husband with multi-infarct dementia touched readers and educators alike, offering a candid look at love amid loss. Its emotional depth showcased Shiplett’s versatility, proving her pen could capture both escapist romance and real-world heartache.
Why June Lund Shiplett Matters
June Lund Shiplett’s impact lies in her ability to transport readers while grounding her stories in emotional truth. Her romance novels, though sometimes dismissed as ‘trashy,’ were trailblazers, empowering women through strong, complex heroines. The Yesterday series, in particular, helped popularize time-travel romance, paving the way for later authors. Her non-fiction work educated readers about dementia’s toll, earning praise from caregivers and professionals for its honesty.
Though less celebrated today, Shiplett’s books remain cherished by fans who scour used bookstores for her out-of-print gems. Her legacy endures in the hearts of readers who found escape and empathy in her words, proving that even lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark.
- Key Works: Journey to Yesterday (1979), Return to Yesterday (1984), The Raging Winds of Heaven (1978), A Glass Full of Tears (1996)
- Genres: Historical Romance, Time-Travel Romance, Non-Fiction
- First Book: The Raging Winds of Heaven (1978)
Snag Journey to Yesterday and dive into June Lund Shiplett’s world of romance and adventure! Whether you’re a history buff or a hopeless romantic, her stories promise an unforgettable ride.