Picture a Massachusetts storyteller who weaves romance, suspense, and a dash of the paranormal into unforgettable tales—meet Shana Figueroa! A U.S. Air Force veteran, mother of two, and self-proclaimed science enthusiast, Figueroa crafts stories that pulse with humor, heart, and heroines who kick butt. Her unique blend of gritty realism and supernatural flair has earned her praise as an exciting voice in paranormal romance.
From her Valentine Shepherd series to standalone gems like Spice of Love, Figueroa’s novels captivate readers with intricate plots and characters who feel like old friends. Her military background and love for martial arts infuse her work with authenticity, while her playful wit keeps the pages turning. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and stories of this genre-bending author!
The Making of Shana Figueroa
Shana Figueroa calls Massachusetts home, where she lives with her husband, two young daughters, and two lovable (if slightly ancient) pugs. By day, she served as an aerospace engineer in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. Her scientific curiosity and disciplined mindset shine through in her writing, grounding even her wildest paranormal plots in a sense of realism. Figueroa’s love for storytelling began as a creative escape, with influences ranging from classic sci-fi to steamy romance novels. Inspired by Toni Morrison’s advice to write the books she wanted to read, she dove into crafting tales that blend humor, suspense, and strong female leads.
Shana Figueroa’s Unforgettable Stories
Figueroa’s bibliography is a treasure trove of speculative fiction, with a focus on paranormal romance and science fiction. Her debut, Spice of Love (2015), sets the tone with its mix of passion, humor, and unexpected twists. The Valentine Shepherd series, starting with Vengeance (2016), follows private investigator Val Shepherd, whose ability to glimpse the future drives a thrilling conspiracy-laden plot. Praised by Opal Carew as “beautifully written,” Vengeance hooked readers with its dark edge and shocking twists.
Another standout, Battlefield High (2018), is a sci-fi young adult novel with a heavy dose of romance. It follows a U.S. Army Major who wakes up in the body of a high school girl, navigating time travel, mean girls, and forbidden love. Reviewers raved about its fast-paced action and vivid portrayal of high school drama. Figueroa’s style is marked by complex characters, intricate worldbuilding, and a knack for balancing humor with deeper themes like justice and resilience.
Whether she’s exploring shapeshifting unicorns or futuristic conspiracies, Figueroa’s stories are plot-heavy yet emotionally rich. Her heroines—often tough, witty, and unapologetically human—resonate with readers who crave strong female leads. Her occasional ventures into horror and literary fiction showcase her versatility, proving she’s not afraid to push genre boundaries.
Why Shana Figueroa Matters
Shana Figueroa’s impact lies in her ability to make speculative fiction accessible yet profound. Her stories tackle heavy themes—corruption, loss, empowerment—while keeping readers entertained with humor and heart. As a female veteran in a male-dominated field, she brings a unique perspective to her characters, who often defy stereotypes. Her work has inspired fans of paranormal romance to seek out stories that blend thrills with emotional depth, earning her a loyal following.
In a genre often dominated by predictable tropes, Figueroa’s fresh voice stands out. Her commitment to “words with weight” challenges readers to think while they swoon, making her a trailblazer for diverse, dynamic storytelling. As she continues to write, her influence on paranormal and sci-fi romance is sure to grow.
- Key Works: Spice of Love, Vengeance, Battlefield High
- Genres: Paranormal romance, science fiction, young adult
- Hobbies: Martial arts, video games, reading
Snag Vengeance or Battlefield High and dive into Shana Figueroa’s thrilling world of romance and suspense! Whether you’re a sci-fi buff or a romance enthusiast, her stories promise a wild, heartfelt ride.