Picture a storyteller who swept readers into the glittering ballrooms of Victorian England with tales of passion and pluck—meet Laura Lee Guhrke! A New York Times bestselling author, Guhrke has charmed historical romance fans since her 1994 debut, crafting stories that blend heart, wit, and strong heroines. With RITA Awards and a knack for unforgettable characters, she’s a genre gem.
From her Idaho roots to her celebrated novels, Guhrke’s journey is as captivating as her books. Her vivid settings and slow-burn romances have earned her a loyal following, making her a standout voice in historical romance.
The Making of Laura Lee Guhrke
Born in Idaho, Laura Lee Guhrke didn’t always dream of writing novels. Armed with a business degree from Boise State University, she spent seven years in advertising, ran a catering business in Los Angeles, and even managed her parents’ construction company. But her heart leaned toward storytelling. Inspired by her love of history and the allure of time travel through fiction, she penned her first novel, Prelude to Heaven, in 1994. The romance genre, she found, was the perfect way to whisk readers to eras of dukes and daring heroines.
Guhrke’s shift to writing wasn’t easy—she’s called it the hardest job she’s ever done. Yet, her persistence paid off, proving a discouraging teacher wrong who once called her stories “too sappy.” Today, she lives in Idaho with her husband, two cats, and a passion for skiing and wakeboarding when she’s not crafting her next romance.
Laura Lee Guhrke’s Unforgettable Stories
Guhrke’s novels are a masterclass in historical romance, known for their slow-burn chemistry and heroines who defy convention. Her Girl Bachelors series, starting with And Then He Kissed Her (2007), follows independent women navigating love and society in Victorian England. The book’s heroine, Emma, transforms from a dutiful secretary to a bold writer, winning readers with her pluck.
The Guilty series, including Guilty Pleasures (2004), showcases Guhrke’s knack for flawed, relatable characters. Daphne Wade, a shy archaeologist’s assistant, captures the heart of a duke, earning the Romantic Times Award for Best European Historical Romance. Her An American Heiress in London series brings transatlantic flair, with heiresses like Edie tackling love and scandal. Recent works, like Bookshop Cinderella (2023) from the Scandal at the Savoy series, weave real historical scandals into fiction, set against the opulent Savoy Hotel.
Guhrke’s style shines through her sparkling dialogue and meticulous historical detail, from Regency ballrooms to Edwardian motorcars. Her heroines—often strong, witty, and ahead of their time—resonate with modern readers, while her heroes evolve from rogues to devoted partners, making every page a delight.
Why Laura Lee Guhrke Matters
Laura Lee Guhrke has left an indelible mark on historical romance, earning praise as “one of the most natural voices” in the genre. Her two RITA Awards—for Conor’s Way (1997) and No Mistress of Mine (2017)—highlight her storytelling prowess. By centering strong women and emotionally rich narratives, she’s expanded the genre’s appeal, drawing comparisons to Julia Quinn and Evie Dunmore.
Her books, regular fixtures on USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists, offer escapism and empowerment. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit rave about her ability to make history feel alive, with titles like Scandal of the Year hailed as genre standouts. Guhrke’s work reminds us that love stories can be both timeless and transformative.
- Born: Idaho, USA
- Debut Novel: Prelude to Heaven (1994)
- Key Series: Girl Bachelors, Guilty, An American Heiress in London
- Awards: Two RITA Awards, Romantic Times Best European Historical Romance (2004)
Snag And Then He Kissed Her and dive into Laura Lee Guhrke’s world of Victorian romance—your heart will thank you!