Picture a storyteller who weaves heart-pounding suspense with swoon-worthy romance—meet Leslie Tentler! Hailing from Kingsport, Tennessee, this American author has captivated readers with her thrilling novels, earning her a spot as a rising star in romantic suspense. With accolades like the Maggie Award and a finalist nod for Best First Novel at ThrillerFest, Tentler’s gripping tales, like the Chasing Evil Trilogy, keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Now based in Atlanta, Tentler’s knack for blending taut mystery with emotional depth has made her a favorite among readers who crave stories that thrill and tug at the heartstrings. Let’s dive into her journey, from her early days to her unforgettable works, and discover why she’s a name to know in the world of suspense.
The Making of Leslie Tentler
Born in the scenic town of Kingsport, Tennessee, Leslie Tentler grew up surrounded by stories. As a young reader, she devoured Nancy Drew mysteries, sparking a lifelong love for intrigue. Sneaking peeks at her mother’s historical romance novels—perhaps a bit too early—added a dash of passion to her literary tastes. These early influences shaped her unique voice, blending dark, contemporary thrills with romantic flair. Before becoming a novelist, Tentler spent nearly two decades as a writer and editor in public relations, honing her craft. When the urge to write fiction became too strong, she took the leap, and her first manuscript won multiple awards, including the prestigious Maggie Award of Excellence.
Leslie Tentler’s Unforgettable Stories
Tentler’s novels are a masterclass in romantic suspense, delivering pulse-pounding plots and characters that linger long after the final page. Her Chasing Evil Trilogy—Midnight Caller (2011), Midnight Fear (2011), and Edge of Midnight (2012)—introduces readers to complex heroes like FBI agent Trevor Rivette and psychologist Rain Sommers, who face chilling killers in New Orleans. Midnight Caller, her debut, follows a serial killer’s obsession with Rain, earning praise for its “taut, page-turning suspense” from bestselling author Allison Brennan.
The Rarity Cove series, set in a fictional South Carolina town, showcases Tentler’s ability to weave small-town charm with high-stakes drama. Before the Storm (2015) follows a Hollywood star recovering from a stalker attack, while Low Tide and In Dark Water deepen the series’ emotional and suspenseful layers. Her standalone novel Fallen (2014) explores a detective’s fractured marriage amid a murder investigation, highlighting Tentler’s knack for flawed, relatable characters. Her crisp prose and vivid settings make each story a cinematic escape.
Known for her dark, atmospheric style, Tentler balances gritty crime with heartfelt romance, appealing to fans of authors like Nora Roberts and Karen Rose. Her meticulous research into police procedures and psychological depth ensures authenticity, while her focus on character-driven narratives keeps readers invested.
Why Leslie Tentler Matters
Leslie Tentler’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that resonate emotionally while delivering relentless suspense. Her novels explore themes of redemption, resilience, and love against the backdrop of danger, offering readers an escape that’s both thrilling and cathartic. As a member of Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America, she’s helped elevate the romantic suspense genre, earning a loyal following and critical acclaim. Her awards and nominations, including two Daphne du Maurier Award finalist spots, underscore her influence in a competitive field.
Beyond her books, Tentler’s journey from public relations to award-winning author inspires aspiring writers, proving that passion and persistence can turn dreams into reality. Her stories, rooted in her Tennessee upbringing and polished in Atlanta, bring a unique Southern gothic flavor to the genre, making her a standout voice.
- Born: Kingsport, Tennessee
- Key Works: Chasing Evil Trilogy, Rarity Cove series, Fallen
- Awards: Maggie Award of Excellence, ThrillerFest 2012 Best First Novel finalist
- Resides: Atlanta, Georgia
Snag Midnight Caller or dive into the Rarity Cove series for a dose of Leslie Tentler’s heart-stopping romantic suspense! With her signature blend of chills and thrills, you’re in for a wild ride.