Picture a storyteller who spins tales of romance and suspense that keep you up all night—meet Roxanne St. Claire! A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Rocki, as she’s fondly called, has penned over 50 novels that blend heart-pounding suspense, heartfelt romance, and a touch of Florida sunshine. From her Pittsburgh roots to her beachside life, her journey is a love letter to perseverance and passion.
With a RITA Award under her belt and a dream to write 100 books, Roxanne’s stories, like the beloved Barefoot Bay series, have captured hearts worldwide. Her books, translated into dozens of languages and even optioned for film, prove that love and adventure know no bounds. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the magic of Roxanne St. Claire!
The Making of Roxanne St. Claire
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the youngest of five, Roxanne—too tiny for her grand name—was nicknamed Rocki from the start. Her love for stories bloomed when she read *Gone With The Wind*, sparking a lifelong passion for words. A typewriter gifted on her 12th birthday fueled her early writing dreams. After graduating from UCLA with a communications degree, Rocki climbed the corporate ladder, becoming a Senior Vice President at a global PR firm. But a life-changing moment came when she read *Nobody’s Baby But Mine* by Susan Elizabeth Phillips, inspiring her to write stories that make readers feel whole and happy.
Balancing motherhood and a demanding job, Rocki wrote her first manuscript, catching a literary agent’s eye. Her second manuscript became *Tropical Getaway*, published by Simon & Schuster’s Pocket Books in 2003. She soon left the corporate world, embracing the rollercoaster of full-time writing. Her Pittsburgh grit and determination shone through, setting the stage for a prolific career.
Roxanne St. Claire’s Unforgettable Stories
Roxanne’s novels are a vibrant mix of romance, suspense, and contemporary fiction, often infused with family ties, dogs, and coastal charm. Her *Barefoot Bay* series, set on a dreamy Gulf Coast island, spans 18 books and five connected series, offering stand-alone romances that whisk readers to a world of love and laughter. Fans adore the emotional depth and happy-ever-after endings that define her work.
The *Dogfather* and *Dogmothers* series are heartwarming hits, blending romance with canine matchmaking. In *Sit…Stay…Beg*, a widowed veterinarian uses his dogs to find soulmates for his kids, while *Hot Under the Collar* features dachshund-loving grannies playing Cupid. Roxanne’s *Bullet Catchers* series, like *Kill Me Twice*, delivers high-stakes suspense with sexy bodyguards and fearless heroines. Her ability to weave humor, heart, and thrills across genres keeps readers hooked.
Roxanne’s style is accessible yet evocative, with vivid settings and relatable characters. Her Florida beach community life inspires her settings, while her love for dogs—evident in her series’ rescue dog covers—adds a unique charm. A portion of her book sales supports the Alaqua Animal Refuge, reflecting her commitment to giving back.
Why Roxanne St. Claire Matters
Roxanne St. Claire’s impact on romance and suspense is undeniable. Her ability to craft stories that resonate emotionally has earned her a loyal global fanbase. With over 50 novels, multiple awards, and translations in dozens of languages, she’s a trailblazer in contemporary romance. Her focus on family, second chances, and love’s transformative power speaks to readers of all ages.
Beyond her books, Roxanne’s journey from corporate executive to bestselling author inspires aspiring writers. Her support for animal rescues and her authentic, approachable persona—seen in her newsletters and social media—make her a beloved figure. As she aims for 100 books, Roxanne continues to shape the genre with stories that uplift and entertain.
- Pen Name: Roxanne St. Claire (real surname: Zink)
- Key Works: *Barefoot Bay*, *The Dogfather*, *Bullet Catchers*
- Awards: RITA Award winner, 10-time nominee; 4-time National Readers’ Choice Award winner
- Fun Fact: Her first Young Adult novel was optioned for a feature film.
Snag *Sit…Stay…Beg* or *Barefoot in the Sand* and dive into Roxanne St. Claire’s world of romance and adventure! Her stories are the perfect escape—grab a book, kick off your shoes, and fall in love!