Picture a Colorado storyteller who traded newsrooms for novels, weaving tales of heart-pounding romance and gripping suspense—meet Pamela Clare! A USA Today bestselling author from Boulder, Clare blends her investigative journalism roots with a love for history to craft romantic suspense and historical romance novels that keep readers up all night. Her acclaimed I-Team series, inspired by real-life reporting, has made her a beloved voice in the genre.
With a knack for creating strong heroines and steamy chemistry, Clare’s stories are more than just page-turners—they’re emotional journeys. Let’s dive into her world, from her early days to her lasting impact!
The Making of Pamela Clare
Born with a passion for storytelling, Pamela Clare grew up in Colorado, enchanted by the Rocky Mountains. Her love for fiction sparked at nine with Misty of Chincoteague, and by fifteen, she was hooked on romance novels like Kathleen Woodiwiss’ The Flame and the Flower. Studying archaeology in college fueled her fascination with history, while her time living in Denmark for nearly three years—exploring castles and ruins—ignited her passion for historical romance.
Clare’s writing career began in journalism, where she broke barriers as the first woman editor-in-chief of two newspapers. Her investigative work earned her prestigious awards, including the National Journalism Award for Public Service and the Keeper of the Flame Lifetime Achievement Award. These experiences shaped her disciplined writing style and inspired her most famous series.
Pamela Clare’s Unforgettable Stories
Clare’s novels are a masterful blend of romance, suspense, and social commentary. Her I-Team series, starting with Extreme Exposure (2005), follows investigative journalists in Denver tackling dangerous stories. In this debut, single mother Kara McMillan uncovers corporate corruption, sparking a steamy romance with senator Reece Sheridan. Readers praise the series for its well-researched plots and sizzling chemistry, earning awards like the 2010 All About Romance Reader Award for Naked Edge.
In historical romance, Clare shines with the MacKinnon’s Rangers trilogy, set during the French and Indian War. Surrender (2006), a RITA finalist, tells the story of a Scottish soldier and a spirited heroine in colonial America, blending rich historical detail with emotional depth. Her Colorado High Country series, like Barely Breathing (2016), shifts to contemporary romance, focusing on search-and-rescue teams in Scarlet Springs, offering lighter but equally captivating tales.
Clare’s style is immersive, with strong, relatable heroines and heroes who balance rugged charm with vulnerability. Her journalism background brings authenticity to her suspense, while her love for history infuses her romances with vivid settings. Whether it’s a journalist dodging danger or a colonial heroine defying odds, Clare’s stories resonate with passion and purpose.
Why Pamela Clare Matters
Pamela Clare’s impact lies in her ability to elevate romance beyond escapism. Her I-Team series tackles real-world issues like environmental corruption and human trafficking, blending thrills with social awareness. Fans adore her for creating heroines who are smart, courageous, and unapologetically human, inspiring readers to embrace their own strength. Her awards, including two RITA finalist nods and three Daphne du Maurier finalist spots, reflect her influence in romance.
As a single mother of two grown sons, Clare writes from her Boulder home, drawing inspiration from the Rockies. Her transition from journalism to fiction proves that passion and discipline can redefine a career, making her a role model for aspiring authors. Her stories continue to captivate a global fanbase, proving romance can be both thrilling and meaningful.
- Birthplace: Colorado, USA
- Key Works: I-Team series, MacKinnon’s Rangers trilogy, Colorado High Country series
- Awards: National Journalism Award for Public Service, Keeper of the Flame Lifetime Achievement Award, two-time RITA finalist
Ready to get lost in a world of danger and desire? Snag Extreme Exposure and dive into Pamela Clare’s thrilling romantic suspense!