Picture a storyteller who spun tales of quirky heroines and roguish heroes, weaving magic into every page—meet Rebecca Paisley! Born Rebecca Boado Rosas, this American novelist captured hearts with her romance, Regency, and historical romance novels. Under her pen name, she penned nine novels and four novellas between 1990 and 1997, earning a spot on the Publishers Weekly bestseller list and a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award. Despite personal hardships, Paisley’s unique voice and humor-filled stories continue to enchant readers.
With a knack for crafting characters that feel like old friends, Paisley brought a fresh, playful energy to romance. Her debut novel, The Barefoot Bride, introduced the world to her signature style: witty, heartfelt, and a little bit wild. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this romance trailblazer!
The Making of Rebecca Paisley
Rebecca Paisley, born Rebecca Boado Rosas, grew up with a pen in hand, scribbling letters and poems from a young age. Her father, Emil Edward Boado, a U.S. Air Force pilot who died in the Vietnam War, was a profound influence, inspiring her storytelling spirit. Supported by her family, young Rebecca honed her craft, writing everything from tall tales to cheeky poems aimed at her sister. After attending Appalachian State University in North Carolina, she began shaping the bold heroines that would define her career.
Paisley’s path to publishing wasn’t easy. After facing 17 rejections for her early manuscripts, she decided to write for herself, not publishers. This shift led to her breakout character, Chickadee McBride, a delightfully unconventional heroine. That manuscript became The Barefoot Bride, snapped up by Avon Books, launching Paisley’s rise in the romance world.
Rebecca Paisley’s Unforgettable Stories
Paisley’s novels are a blend of humor, heart, and historical charm, featuring heroines who break the mold and heroes with hearts of gold. Her debut, The Barefoot Bride (1990), follows Chickadee McBride, a spirited woman whose wild ways challenge societal norms and win over a skeptical hero. Readers adored its fresh take on romance, blending laughter with tender moments.
Another gem, A Basket of Wishes (1995), dives into a fairy-tale world with a magical heroine and a dashing duke. Its whimsical plot earned a Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for Historical Romance Fantasy. Bed of Roses (1996), set in Mexico’s Sierra Madre mountains, pairs Zafiro Talavera, a fierce caretaker of outlaws, with Sawyer, a mysterious stranger. The novel’s vibrant setting and emotional depth won a Romance Readers Anonymous Award for Best Multicultural Romance. Moonlight and Magic (1990) is a fan favorite for its laugh-out-loud moments and quirky charm, showcasing Paisley’s knack for blending humor with romance.
Her writing style—playful, emotional, and richly detailed—sets her apart. Paisley’s characters mirror her own heart, filled with sensitivity and a love for the outrageous. Her stories often feature fantastical elements and wacky heroines, creating a unique niche in historical romance that feels both timeless and bold.
Why Rebecca Paisley Matters
Rebecca Paisley’s impact on romance literature lies in her ability to craft stories that resonate deeply while keeping readers smiling. Her unconventional heroines challenged the genre’s norms, paving the way for more diverse and dynamic characters. Awards like the Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award and her RITA finalist status highlight her influence. Despite stepping away from writing after 1997, her 2015 digital re-releases with Amber House Books introduced her magic to a new generation.
Paisley’s legacy endures through her fans, who cherish her books for their humor and heart. Living in North Carolina with her beloved pets, she continues to inspire with her belief in magic and the power of a good story. Her work reminds us that love, laughter, and a touch of whimsy can light up any page.
- Pen Name: Rebecca Paisley
- Key Works: The Barefoot Bride, A Basket of Wishes, Bed of Roses, Moonlight and Magic
- Awards: Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award, RITA Finalist, Publishers Weekly Bestseller
- Genres: Romance, Regency, Historical Romance
Snag The Barefoot Bride or A Basket of Wishes and dive into Rebecca Paisley’s enchanting world of romance and laughter!