Picture a West Virginia native weaving tales of heart-pounding romance that captivate readers worldwide—meet Nancy Herkness! This award-winning contemporary romance author has charmed fans with series like Whisper Horse and Wager of Hearts, blending rich characters and immersive storytelling. Her journey from a Princeton graduate to a celebrated novelist is as inspiring as the love stories she crafts.
The Making of Nancy Herkness
Born in West Virginia, Nancy Herkness grew up with a love for literature, nurtured by her grandmother’s gift of Georgette Heyer’s Regency romances. A Princeton graduate with a degree in English literature and creative writing, she explored diverse careers—retail management, COBOL programming, and even a stint as a dental receptionist—before finding her calling in romance writing. Her debut novel, A Bridge to Love, published in 2003, marked the start of a prolific career, fueled by her discovery of the optimism and passion in romance novels.
Nancy Herkness’s Unforgettable Stories
Herkness’s novels are known for their vivid settings, flawed yet relatable characters, and soul-deep love stories. The Whisper Horse series, set in Sanctuary, West Virginia, weaves family loyalty and romance with the unique concept of 'whisper horses' that heal emotional wounds. Titles like Take Me Home and Country Roads showcase her ability to blend small-town charm with heartfelt narratives. The Wager of Hearts series, featuring billionaires Nathan Trainor, Luke Archer, and Gavin Miller, explores high-stakes bets for true love in glamorous New York City. Her Royal Caleva series introduces readers to a fictional island nation, with stories like Royal Caleva: Luis highlighting lonely royals finding love. Herkness’s writing style—rich, emotional, and immersive—creates worlds where readers savor the thrill of falling in love.
Other notable works include The Consultants series, blending romance with suspense, and Second Glances, which explores second chances at love. With over a million books sold, Herkness has earned accolades like the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award and two RITA Award nominations from the Romance Writers of America, cementing her status as a romance genre luminary.
Why Nancy Herkness Matters
Nancy Herkness has left an indelible mark on contemporary romance, offering readers stories that balance passion, vulnerability, and optimism. Her focus on authentic characters—whether billionaires or small-town artists—resonates with fans seeking emotional depth. Beyond her books, Herkness supports animal rescue, donating royalties from new releases to organizations like Clarion PAWS, reflecting her commitment to giving back. Her ability to craft escapist yet relatable tales has built a devoted readership, making her a beloved voice in romance literature.
- Birthplace: West Virginia
- Key Works: Whisper Horse, Wager of Hearts, Royal Caleva series
- Awards: National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award, two-time RITA Award nominee
- Fun Fact: Lives in New Jersey with two tabby cats, Skoda and Mobi
Snag The CEO Buys In from the Wager of Hearts series and dive into Nancy Herkness’s world of steamy, heartwarming romance!