Picture a New Yorker weaving tales of love, laughter, and second chances—meet K.M. Jackson! A USA Today bestselling romance novelist, K.M. Jackson, also known as Kwana Jackson, traded the glamorous world of fashion design for the heart-fluttering pages of contemporary romance. Her stories, celebrated by Oprah Magazine, NPR, and ShondaLand, capture the magic of modern love with wit and warmth.
From her vibrant Harlem roots to her award-winning novels like How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days, Jackson’s journey is as inspiring as her characters. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this romance trailblazer!
The Making of K.M. Jackson
Born and raised in New York City, K.M. Jackson grew up riding the A train, dreaming of becoming a fashion designer and a writer. After studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology, she spent a decade designing women’s sportswear for top New York fashion houses. But as a mother of twins juggling the demands of mid-market fashion, Jackson took a leap of faith to pursue her lifelong passion for storytelling. Her transition from sketching designs to crafting narratives was fueled by a desire to bring diverse, heartfelt stories to the romance genre.
K.M. Jackson’s Unforgettable Stories
K.M. Jackson’s novels are a love letter to romance, blending humor, heart, and relatable characters. Her Creative Hearts series follows strong, creative women navigating love and ambition. For example, Through the Lens (2012) tells the story of Mika Walters, a fashion assistant vying for her photographer boss’s heart during a steamy island shoot. In Seduction’s Canvas (2013), artist Samara Leighton finds passion with a mysterious motorcyclist, proving Jackson’s knack for sizzling chemistry.
Jackson’s standalone novels shine just as brightly. How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days (2021) is a rollicking rom-com about a woman on a mission to win Keanu’s heart, praised by NPR for its laugh-out-loud banter. Her Sugar Lake series, starting with As Good as the First Time (2018), brings readers to a charming Georgia town where family dynamics and pie-baking spark unexpected love. Jackson’s style—character-driven, witty, and inclusive—champions diversity in romance, earning her the hashtag #WeNeedDiverseRomance.
Her ability to weave real-world issues like family ties and career struggles into feel-good narratives sets her apart. Whether set in bustling New York or cozy small towns, her stories resonate with readers craving authentic, modern love stories.
Why K.M. Jackson Matters
K.M. Jackson’s impact on contemporary romance is undeniable. As a vocal advocate for diversity in publishing, she’s helped pave the way for more inclusive narratives in a genre often criticized for its lack of representation. Her novels, filled with vibrant characters of color, challenge stereotypes and celebrate love in all its forms. Recognition from Oprah Magazine, NPR, and ShondaLand underscores her influence, while awards like the Golden Leaf from the New Jersey Romance Writers of America highlight her storytelling prowess.
Jackson’s journey from fashion to fiction inspires aspiring writers, proving it’s never too late to chase a dream. Her stories remind us that love, like life, is messy, beautiful, and worth fighting for.
- Born: New York City, USA
- Key Works: How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days, As Good as the First Time, Creative Hearts series
- Awards: Golden Leaf Award, Author of the Year by New York Romance Writers of America
- Fun Fact: Jackson’s terrier, Jack, is her writing sidekick!
Ready to fall in love with K.M. Jackson’s world? Grab How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days and let her witty, heartwarming romance sweep you away!