Picture a microbiologist turned romance novelist, weaving steamy tales of love and passion from the heart of the Midwest—meet Marie Johnston! A RITA® Finalist, Johnston has captivated readers with her paranormal and contemporary romance novels, blending heart-pounding chemistry with relatable characters. Since her debut in 2014, she’s become a beloved voice in romance, crafting stories that make hearts race and pages turn.
With series like The Oil Kings and Sigma Menace, Johnston’s knack for mixing small-town charm with supernatural intrigue has earned her a loyal fanbase. Her journey from lab coat to laptop is as inspiring as her novels, proving that it’s never too late to chase a dream.
The Making of Marie Johnston
Born and raised in the upper Midwest, Marie Johnston initially set her sights on an English degree, but life had other plans. A brief, disastrous stint in accounting led her to embrace her inner science geek, earning a degree in microbiology and working as a medical technologist. Yet, her creative side simmered beneath the surface, fueled by a lifelong love of romance novels. After leaving her full-time lab job to raise her four children, Johnston decided to pursue her dream of writing, trading scientific reports for stories of love and adventure.
Her transition wasn’t without challenges. Balancing motherhood and part-time work as a medical tech, she carved out time to write, often sneaking to the library or waking at dawn to type while her kids and cat vied for attention. Her perseverance paid off, and in 2014, she published her first novel, Fever Claim, launching her into the romance world.
Marie Johnston’s Unforgettable Stories
Johnston’s bibliography is a treasure trove of romance, spanning paranormal and contemporary subgenres. Her debut, Fever Claim, kicks off the Sigma Menace series, a paranormal saga of wolf shifters and sizzling chemistry. The story follows a Sigma recruit and a lone shifter navigating danger and desire, setting the tone for Johnston’s fast-paced, emotional style.
In the contemporary realm, The Oil Kings series shines with its modern Western flair. King’s Crown, the first book, dives into an age-gap romance between a feisty journalist and a brooding oil baron, packed with drama and steamy tension. King’s Queen, a fan-favorite second-chance romance, explores a couple’s emotional journey to reconnect, earning praise for its mature, balanced storytelling. Johnston’s ability to craft vivid settings—whether small-town ranches or supernatural underworlds—pairs with her focus on strong, relatable characters, making her novels endlessly bingeable.
Her writing sparkles with witty dialogue and heartfelt themes, often exploring trust, redemption, and the courage to love. As a RITA® Finalist, Johnston’s skill has been recognized by the Romance Writers of America, cementing her reputation for delivering romance with a “wicked bite.”
Why Marie Johnston Matters
Marie Johnston’s impact lies in her ability to make romance accessible and thrilling for diverse readers. Her stories resonate with those who crave escapist adventures, whether through the lens of a shifter’s primal instincts or a cowboy’s tender heart. By embracing both paranormal and contemporary romance, she’s carved a unique niche, appealing to fans of steamy urban tales and cozy small-town vibes alike.
Beyond her novels, Johnston’s journey inspires aspiring writers. Her shift from a demanding science career to a prolific author shows that passion and persistence can rewrite life’s script. With over 20 series and 85 books, she’s a testament to the power of dedication, keeping romance alive for readers worldwide.
- Born: Upper Midwest, USA
- Debut Novel: Fever Claim (2014)
- Notable Series: The Oil Kings, Sigma Menace, New Vampire Disorder
- Awards: RITA® Finalist
Ready to fall in love with Marie Johnston’s world? Grab King’s Crown or Fever Claim and dive into her steamy, heartwarming romances today!