Picture a storyteller who weaves Regency romance with heart and historical flair—meet Martha Keyes! Hailing from Vineyard, Utah, this Whitney Award-winning author has captivated readers since her 2019 debut. With over twenty novels blending intricate plots, strong heroines, and a touch of inspiration, Keyes has carved a unique niche in historical romance, inviting readers into worlds of love and adventure.
Her journey from French Studies scholar to celebrated novelist is as compelling as her stories. Keyes’s novels, known for their clean yet swoony romance, draw you into the elegance and drama of the Regency era, making her a must-read for fans of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer.
The Making of Martha Keyes
Born and raised in Utah, Martha Keyes grew up with a love for words and wanderlust. She earned a BA in French Studies and a Master of Public Health from Brigham Young University, but her creative spark led her down unexpected paths. Before writing, she honed her skills as a full-time photographer, capturing life’s beauty while moonlighting as a storyteller. Inspired by Regency romance giants like Georgette Heyer, Keyes took a leap during NaNoWriMo 2015, crafting her first novel despite initial skepticism from family. That leap paid off, launching a prolific career.
Martha Keyes’s Unforgettable Stories
Keyes’s novels are a delightful blend of romance, suspense, and historical detail, often featuring heroines who defy convention. Her debut, Wyndcross (2019), kicks off the Families of Dorset series with Kate Matcham navigating love and smuggling in a tale of tension and charm. Host for the Holidays (2022), a fan-favorite Christmas romance, sparkles with Parisian magic and witty banter. A Confirmed Rake from The Donovans series explores redemption and romance through Rebecca Russell’s journey in high society. Her latest, Reputation at Risk (2024), delivers enemies-to-lovers chemistry with a suspenseful twist.
Keyes’s style shines through her meticulous research and playful nods to Shakespeare, as seen in her Regency Shakespeare series. Her stories balance emotional depth with lighthearted moments, offering clean romance that’s rich with swoon-worthy tension. Whether it’s a coastal escape or a high-stakes courtship, her plots keep readers hooked with unexpected twists and relatable characters.
Why Martha Keyes Matters
Martha Keyes has redefined inspirational historical romance by crafting stories that resonate with modern readers while honoring the past. Her strong, witty heroines challenge Regency norms, empowering readers to embrace their own resilience. With a growing fanbase and consistent bestsellers, she’s earned praise for her authentic voice and ability to weave romance with real-world stakes. Keyes’s global travels with her family infuse her work with vivid settings, making each novel a journey of heart and history.
Her Whitney Award and Amazon bestseller status highlight her impact, but it’s her ability to inspire through clean, uplifting tales that truly sets her apart. Keyes proves romance can be both thrilling and meaningful, leaving a lasting mark on the genre.
- Born: Utah, USA
- Key Works: Wyndcross, Host for the Holidays, A Confirmed Rake, Reputation at Risk
- Awards: Whitney Award winner
- Fun Fact: She’s a globetrotter, writing from places like Seville, Spain!
Snag Wyndcross or Host for the Holidays and dive into Martha Keyes’s swoony Regency world—your heart will thank you!