Picture a storyteller who lassoed romance with a cowboy’s charm and a paranormal twist—meet Myla Jackson! This award-winning author, also known as Elle James, has spun steamy tales that captivate readers worldwide, earning her New York Times and USA Today bestseller status. From the sultry Ugly Stick Saloon to medieval knights and shapeshifters, Jackson’s stories brim with passion and adventure.
With a career sparked by a 2004 RWA Golden Heart win, Jackson’s unique blend of genres and boundary-pushing romance has built a fiercely loyal fanbase. Let’s dive into the life, works, and legacy of this romance trailblazer!
The Making of Myla Jackson
Myla Jackson’s storytelling roots trace back to her vibrant life on a South Texas ranch, where she spent two decades raising horses, cattle, goats, ostriches, and emus. This colorful backdrop left an indelible mark, infusing her stories with rugged charm and untamed spirit. Inspired by her sister Delilah Devlin’s challenge, Jackson turned her childhood love for writing—once filled with princesses and dragons—into a professional pursuit. Her 2004 RWA Golden Heart win for Best Paranormal Romance marked the launch of a prolific career, proving her knack for weaving passion into every page.
Now living in the lush hills of Northwest Arkansas with her husband of over 20 years and her canine muses, Chewy and Sweetpea, Jackson draws on her rural experiences to craft stories that feel both grounded and fantastical.
Myla Jackson’s Unforgettable Stories
Jackson’s bibliography is a treasure trove of romance, spanning historical westerns, paranormal adventures, romantic suspense, and contemporary tales. Her Ugly Stick Saloon series, with 13 books, is a fan favorite, centered around a lively strip club where passion and drama collide. In Boots and Chaps, the first book, club owner Audrey Anderson dons a mask as the mysterious stripper Kiki, sparking a steamy connection that sets the tone for the series’ sinful indulgences.
Other standout works include the Bound and Tied series, which explores daring romantic entanglements, and Trouble with Harry, a whimsical paranormal romance about a wish-granting archaeologist trapped in a bottle. Jackson’s writing style is bold, blending sensuality with humor and heart. Her characters—cowboys, vampires, or immortal seductresses—are multidimensional, reflecting her ability to push romantic boundaries while keeping readers hooked.
Whether set in the Wild West or a fantastical realm, Jackson’s stories celebrate desire and adventure, often with a playful nod to the unconventional. Her versatility across genres keeps her narratives fresh, ensuring there’s a tale for every romance lover.
Why Myla Jackson Matters
Myla Jackson’s impact on romance fiction lies in her fearless exploration of sexuality and genre-blending creativity. By weaving paranormal elements, historical settings, and modern passion, she’s expanded the possibilities of romance, inspiring both readers and writers. Her loyal readership, drawn to her vivid characters and steamy plots, reflects her ability to connect on a deeply emotional level.
Jackson’s awards, including the prestigious RWA Golden Heart, underscore her influence, while her bestseller status cements her as a powerhouse in the industry. Her stories don’t just entertain—they invite readers to embrace their desires and revel in the thrill of love’s wild ride.
- Pen Name: Also writes as Elle James
- Key Works: Ugly Stick Saloon series, Bound and Tied series, Trouble with Harry
- Awards: 2004 RWA Golden Heart for Best Paranormal Romance
- Current Home: Northwest Arkansas
Ready to saddle up for a romantic adventure? Snag Boots and Chaps and dive into Myla Jackson’s sultry, spirited world!