Picture a storyteller who weaves faith, romance, and adventure into unforgettable tales—meet Laurie Alice Eakes! This American author has captured hearts with her inspirational historical romances, blending vivid characters and gripping plots. From Regency England to the American frontier, Eakes’s novels are a delightful escape, earning her awards and a loyal readership.
With over two dozen books and a knack for emotional depth, Eakes has become a beloved voice in Christian fiction. Her stories, filled with love and suspense, resonate with readers seeking both heart and hope. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this remarkable writer.
The Making of Laurie Alice Eakes
Born with a storyteller’s heart, Laurie Alice Eakes spun tales in her mind as a child, whispering stories to herself at night. Her love for reading and crafting narratives led her to earn a degree in English and French from Asbury University, followed by a Master’s in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. Despite early discouragement from professors who deemed writing an impractical career, Eakes persisted, joining writers’ groups and honing her craft.
Her breakthrough came with her first novel, Family Guardian, which won the National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency in 2007. Legally blind, Eakes overcame societal misconceptions about disability, proving her vivid descriptions and compelling stories could shine. Now based in Illinois with her husband, cats, and a dog, she continues to write from a place of passion and perseverance.
Laurie Alice Eakes’s Unforgettable Stories
Eakes’s novels are a masterclass in blending romance, suspense, and faith. Her Midwives series, including Lady in the Mist and The Mountain Midwife, showcases strong heroines navigating love and danger. Lady in the Mist follows a midwife in 1809 Virginia, entangled in a web of secrets and romance, while The Mountain Midwife, her first contemporary novel, delivers modern suspense with a midwife heroine.
The Cliffs of Cornwall series, with titles like A Lady’s Honor, transports readers to 19th-century England, where spirited women face family honor and forbidden love. Eakes’s standalone novel A Stranger’s Secret weaves gothic suspense with a quest for purpose, praised for its emotional complexity. Her style—rich with historical detail, unexpected twists, and themes of redemption—makes every book a page-turner.
Known for crafting relatable characters, Eakes infuses her stories with adventure and heart. As Romantic Times notes, she brings novels to life “without being over the top,” a testament to her ability to balance drama and authenticity. Her works, spanning Regency, colonial America, and contemporary settings, appeal to fans of layered, faith-driven romance.
Why Laurie Alice Eakes Matters
Laurie Alice Eakes has left an indelible mark on inspirational romance, inspiring readers with stories of courage, love, and faith. Her ability to create immersive worlds and resilient characters resonates deeply, offering hope amidst life’s challenges. Winning the National Readers Choice Award and earning a 2016 RITA nomination, Eakes has solidified her place in Christian fiction.
Beyond her books, Eakes’s journey as a legally blind author challenges stereotypes, showing that creativity knows no bounds. Her teaching, speaking, and advocacy for writers and disability awareness amplify her impact, making her a beacon for aspiring authors and readers alike.
- Key Works: Family Guardian, The Mountain Midwife, Lady in the Mist
- Awards: National Readers Choice Award (2007), 2016 RITA Finalist
- Genres: Historical Romance, Christian Fiction, Suspense
Snag The Mountain Midwife and dive into Laurie Alice Eakes’s captivating world of romance and redemption!