Picture an American storyteller who spins steamy, feminist historical romances that pulse with passion and defiance—meet Scarlett Peckham! With her debut novel, The Duke I Tempted, she stormed the romance scene, blending gothic allure with bold heroines who challenge convention. Peckham’s tales of love and liberation have captivated readers, earning her a devoted following and critical acclaim.
From her dual homes in Los Angeles and the misty cliffs of coastal Oregon, Peckham crafts stories that feel both timeless and revolutionary. Her unique voice, laced with wit and heart, has made her a standout in historical romance, where she redefines what it means to love fiercely in a world bound by rules.
The Making of Scarlett Peckham
Scarlett Peckham’s love affair with romance began in childhood, sneaking paperbacks from her grandmother’s closet. Those dog-eared novels sparked a lifelong passion for stories of grand emotions and happy endings. She studied English at Columbia University, honing her craft, but pursued a career in communications. Yet, the pull of romance was irresistible. In her free hours, she wrote, dreaming of creating the kind of books she devoured as a young reader.
Her leap into authorship came with The Duke I Tempted, a novel that won the Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart Award and marked her as a fresh, fearless voice. Inspired by the complexities of human connection and the constraints of historical settings, Peckham set out to write romances that empower and provoke, blending sensuality with social commentary.
Scarlett Peckham’s Unforgettable Stories
Peckham’s novels are a delicious mix of gothic atmosphere, feminist fire, and heart-pounding romance. Her debut, The Duke I Tempted (2018), introduces the Secrets of Charlotte Street series, following a meticulous duke and a botanist heroine navigating love and a secret BDSM club in Georgian London. Critics hailed it as “astonishingly good” for its layered characters and cathartic happily-ever-after.
The series continues with The Earl I Ruined (2018), where a reckless gossip columnist must marry the earl she scandalized, sparking enemies-to-lovers tension. The Rakess (2020), from her Society of Sirens series, flips the rake trope, starring a scandalous reformer inspired by Mary Wollstonecraft. Her latest, The Mistress Experience (2024), pairs a courtesan and a shy nobleman, weaving humor, heat, and heartbreak. Peckham’s style—rich with emotional depth, progressive themes, and explicit sensuality—sets her apart, earning praise for its “sex positivity” and “elegant writing.”
Beyond historical romance, Peckham writes contemporary rom-coms as Katelyn Doyle, showcasing her versatility. Her stories, whether set in the 18th century or today, celebrate alpha heroines who claim agency and love on their terms, wrapped in prose that’s both lush and incisive.
Why Scarlett Peckham Matters
Scarlett Peckham has redefined historical romance by centering women who defy societal norms. Her alpha heroines—botanists, reformers, courtesans—reflect a feminist ethos that resonates with modern readers, proving love stories can be both escapist and empowering. By tackling themes like trauma, autonomy, and sexual freedom, she challenges genre stereotypes, earning accolades from outlets like The New York Times and Entertainment Weekly.
Her influence extends beyond books. Peckham’s inclusive approach and candid discussions about kink and diversity in romance have sparked conversations in the genre, inspiring readers and writers alike. For fans, her novels are a beacon of hope, showing that love can triumph even in the most restrictive eras.
- Key Works: The Duke I Tempted, The Rakess, The Mistress Experience
- Awards: Four-time Golden Heart finalist, USA Today bestselling author
- Fun Fact: She dresses her cat in bow ties!
Ready to fall in love with Scarlett Peckham’s world? Grab The Duke I Tempted and dive into her steamy, soulful historical romances today!