Picture a shy Texas girl spinning stories from the heart, only to become a romance novelist who swept readers away with tales of love and redemption—meet Lisa Gregory! Writing under this pen name, Candace Pauline Camp crafted novels that pulse with passion and vivid characters, earning her a cherished spot in the romance genre.
From her first novel in 1978 to her beloved Turner's Rainbows Saga, Gregory’s work invites readers into worlds where love conquers all. Let’s dive into her journey, from a quiet storyteller to a bestselling author whose romances still captivate.
The Making of Lisa Gregory
Born Candace Pauline Camp on May 23, 1949, in Amarillo, Texas, Lisa Gregory was the youngest of three siblings. A shy child, she found her voice through storytelling, weaving tales with toys and scribbling stories by age 10. Writing became her sanctuary, a way to express thoughts too big for her quiet demeanor. After studying at the University of Texas at Austin and West Texas State University, she taught in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, before moving to North Carolina. There, while working in a bank’s trust department, she discovered modern romance novels—a spark that ignited her writing career.
Balancing law school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gregory honed her discipline, finishing her first novel, Bonds of Love, published in 1978 under her pseudonym. This leap from hobbyist to published author marked the start of a prolific journey, fueled by her love for crafting emotional, character-driven stories.
Lisa Gregory’s Unforgettable Stories
Lisa Gregory’s novels are a masterclass in historical romance, blending rich settings with heartfelt narratives. Her debut, Bonds of Love (1978), set during the Civil War, follows Katherine Devereaux, a spirited Boston heiress abducted by a daring Confederate captain. The novel’s fiery romance and vivid historical backdrop hooked readers, establishing Gregory’s knack for intense, emotional stakes.
The Turner's Rainbows Saga, including The Rainbow Season (1979) and The Rainbow Promise (1989), showcases her ability to craft multi-generational tales. These novels explore love, family, and redemption in rural America, with characters like Sarah Turner navigating societal challenges with resilience. The Rainbow Promise earned a 1989 RT Reviewers Choice Award for its poignant storytelling. Other gems like Solitaire (1985) and Sisters (1991) delve into complex relationships, blending romance with themes of trust and second chances.
Gregory’s style is immersive, with lush prose and strong, relatable heroines. Her stories often tackle personal growth alongside romance, set against historical or small-town backdrops, making them timeless for fans of the genre.
Why Lisa Gregory Matters
Lisa Gregory’s impact lies in her ability to make romance resonate. Her novels, published under Candace Camp’s pseudonym, brought emotional depth to the genre, paving the way for character-driven historical romances. With 11 books and awards like the RT Reviewers Choice, she captured the hearts of readers seeking stories of love’s transformative power. Her work remains a touchstone for romance fans, proving that well-crafted stories endure.
Gregory’s journey also inspires aspiring writers. From a shy girl to a bestselling author, she showed that passion and discipline can turn dreams into reality. Her legacy lives on in readers who still cherish her tales of hope and connection.
- Birth Date: May 23, 1949
- Key Works: Bonds of Love, The Rainbow Season, The Rainbow Promise, Sisters
- Awards: 1987 RT Reviewers Choice Award (Light and Shadow), 1989 RT Reviewers Choice Award (The Rainbow Promise)
Ready to fall in love with Lisa Gregory’s world? Grab The Rainbow Season and lose yourself in her heartfelt historical romances!