Picture a Texas-born storyteller who spins heartwarming tales of love and adventure—meet Lori Wilde! As a New York Times bestselling romance novelist, Wilde, born Laurie Blalock Vanzura, has captivated readers with her sizzling chemistry and compelling characters. With over 100 works, her stories have sold millions and inspired Hallmark movies, proving romance is a universal language.
From crafting her first story at age eight to becoming a celebrated author, Wilde’s journey is as inspiring as her novels. Her blend of humor, heart, and small-town charm has made her a beloved figure in contemporary romance, with fans eagerly awaiting each new release.
The Making of Lori Wilde
Born and raised in Texas, Lori Wilde’s love for storytelling bloomed early. At eight, she penned her first short story, and by twelve, she’d completed her first novel. Though her teenage submission to Alfred Hitchcock Magazine was rejected, a handwritten note urging her to keep writing fueled her determination. Balancing nursing school with her passion, Wilde wrote 60 short stories, all rejected, until a teacher’s advice in 1990 prompted her to try novels. In 1994, under the pseudonym Laura Anthony, she sold her second work to Silhouette Romance, marking the start of her prolific career.
Wilde’s nursing background, spanning 20 years in settings from newborn nurseries to dialysis, gave her the flexibility to write. Her father, a journalist, instilled a love of fiction, inspiring her to honor his unfulfilled dream of writing novels. This blend of grit and heart shaped her path to romance stardom.
Lori Wilde’s Unforgettable Stories
Wilde’s novels are a celebration of love, often set in charming Texas towns like Twilight, Cupid, and Moonglow Cove. Her breakout hit, The First Love Cookie Club, a heartwarming tale of second chances, landed on the New York Times bestseller list and became a Hallmark movie, A Kismet Christmas. The Wedding Veil Wishes series, with titles like There Goes the Bride, inspired three record-breaking Hallmark films starring Lacey Chabert.
Known for her witty dialogue and steamy romance, Wilde crafts stories that balance humor and emotion. Her Cupid, Texas series, including Love at First Sight, weaves local legends into tales of destined love. Recent works like The Thomas Crown Effect showcase her knack for blending adventure with romance, following a former Olympian on a thrilling quest. Whether it’s cowboys, small-town sweethearts, or daring heroines, Wilde’s characters resonate with readers craving heartfelt escapism.
Her style—playful yet poignant—draws comparisons to Susan Mallery and Debbie Macomber. With translations in 26 languages and over ten million copies sold, Wilde’s stories transcend borders, offering universal themes of love and redemption.
Why Lori Wilde Matters
Lori Wilde’s impact on contemporary romance is undeniable. Her ability to craft relatable characters and vibrant settings has made her a staple for readers seeking joy and connection. Her novels, often centered on community and second chances, reflect her nursing roots, emphasizing care and resilience. The Hallmark adaptations of her work have brought her stories to a wider audience, cementing her as a cultural touchstone in romance.
Beyond her books, Wilde’s journey inspires aspiring writers. Her perseverance through years of rejection and her transition from nurse to full-time author highlight the power of passion and hard work. As a three-time RITA finalist and yoga instructor, she embodies a multifaceted life, encouraging fans to chase their dreams.
- Born: Texas, USA
- Key Works: The First Love Cookie Club, Wedding Veil Wishes, Cupid, Texas
- Awards: Three-time RITA finalist, Romantic Times Readers’ Choice nominee
- Fun Fact: Her Wedding Veil Wishes series broke Hallmark viewing records.
Ready to fall in love? Snag The First Love Cookie Club and dive into Lori Wilde’s heartwarming world of romance!