Picture a Canadian storyteller who spins heart-pounding tales of romance and suspense across exotic locales—meet Ryshia Kennie! From the sweeping prairies of Saskatchewan to the vibrant streets of Morocco, Kennie’s novels blend thrilling plots with deep emotion, captivating readers worldwide. Her award-winning Desert Justice series and standalone gems have cemented her as a master of romantic suspense, drawing inspiration from her global adventures.
Born and raised in Regina, Saskatchewan, Kennie’s life is as colorful as her stories. Her travels—from dodging monitor lizards in Thailand to navigating bustling kasbahs—infuse her work with vivid settings and high stakes. With a knack for crafting fearless heroines and daring heroes, she’s carved a unique niche in the literary world, earning accolades and a loyal readership.
The Making of Ryshia Kennie
Growing up amid Saskatchewan’s endless skies, Ryshia Kennie was a dreamer with a passion for stories. As a child, she devoured Nancy Drew mysteries, but it was romance that sparked her calling. Long prairie winters fueled her imagination, pushing her to write tales that transported readers far beyond Canada’s borders. Her early career saw her penning historical and paranormal romances, but her pivot to romantic suspense with works like Fatal Intent showcased her evolving voice. Winning Regina’s Writing Award in 2011 marked a turning point, affirming her talent and drive.
Ryshia Kennie’s Unforgettable Stories
Kennie’s novels are a thrilling blend of suspense, romance, and history, often set in far-flung destinations. Her Desert Justice series, published in 2017, follows the Al-Nassar brothers—four powerful sheiks running a security agency. From Morocco to Wyoming, titles like Sheik’s Rule and Son of the Sheik deliver edge-of-your-seat intrigue as the brothers battle danger and find love. Readers praise the series for its fast-paced plots and steamy chemistry.
Standalone novels like Suspect Witness (2016), her first Harlequin Intrigue release, showcase Kennie’s versatility. Set in Malaysia, it follows a schoolteacher on the run, weaving suspense with heartfelt romance. Intent to Kill (2013), set in Cambodia, explores a journalist uncovering a smuggling ring, reflecting Kennie’s knack for rich, immersive settings. Her prose is vivid yet accessible, balancing danger with emotional depth, making her stories perfect for fans of Harlequin Intrigue or classic romantic thrillers.
Kennie’s global travels shape her distinctive style. Whether it’s the temples of Angkor Wat or the plains of New Mexico, her settings feel alive, serving as more than mere backdrops—they’re catalysts for suspense. Her heroines, often independent and bold, mirror her own adventurous spirit, while her heroes exude strength and vulnerability, creating dynamic, believable relationships.
Why Ryshia Kennie Matters
Ryshia Kennie’s impact lies in her ability to transport readers to thrilling, romantic worlds while grounding her stories in human emotion. Her genre-spanning work—romantic suspense, historical romance, and women’s fiction—has broadened the appeal of Canadian literature, proving that prairie roots can yield global stories. As a trailblazer in her hometown, she was the first Regina romance novelist to win a local writing award, inspiring aspiring writers to chase their dreams.
Her partnership with Harlequin Intrigue elevated her profile, bringing her tales to a wider audience. By blending exotic settings with universal themes of love and survival, Kennie’s work resonates with readers seeking escapism and empowerment. Her legacy is one of adventure, proving that stories born from curiosity and courage can leave a lasting mark.
- Born: Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Key Works: Desert Justice series, Suspect Witness, Intent to Kill, From the Dust
- Awards: Regina’s Writing Award (2011), Kindle Book Awards Semifinalist (Fatal Intent)
Ready for a thrilling escape? Snag Son of the Sheik or Suspect Witness and dive into Ryshia Kennie’s world of romance and danger!