Imagine a Chicago-born storyteller who swapped a business suit for a pen, crafting steamy teen romances that captivate hearts worldwide—meet Simone Elkeles! A New York Times bestselling author, Elkeles is celebrated for her Perfect Chemistry trilogy, where cultural clashes and forbidden love spark unforgettable stories. Her knack for authentic, emotional narratives has earned her a RITA Award and a loyal global fanbase.
With a psychology degree and a business background, Elkeles never imagined she’d become a literary star. Yet, her vivid characters and sizzling romances have made her a standout in young adult fiction. Let’s dive into her journey, from corporate offices to crafting tales that make readers swoon!
The Making of Simone Elkeles
Born on April 24, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois, Simone Elkeles grew up in the suburbs, moving from Glenview to Deerfield. A 1988 graduate of Deerfield High School, she earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Illinois and a Master’s in Industrial Relations from Loyola University-Chicago. Initially, she thrived in the corporate world, even becoming CEO of her father’s manufacturing company at 24 after his passing. But her heart wasn’t in boardrooms—it was in storytelling. Inspired by her love for 1980s teen romance and authors like Judy Blume, Elkeles began writing as an adult, channeling her knack for understanding human emotions into vibrant narratives.
Simone Elkeles’s Unforgettable Stories
Elkeles’s breakthrough came with the Perfect Chemistry trilogy, starting with Perfect Chemistry (2008). This novel follows Brittany Ellis, a wealthy cheerleader, and Alex Fuentes, a gang-affiliated Mexican-American teen, as they navigate love against societal odds. Praised for its humor, heart, and alternating perspectives, it won the 2010 RITA Award for Best Young Adult Romance. Rules of Attraction (2010) and Chain Reaction (2011) continue the Fuentes brothers’ stories, blending steamy romance with themes of prejudice and self-discovery, earning spots on bestseller lists.
Beyond Perfect Chemistry, Elkeles penned the How to Ruin trilogy, starting with How to Ruin a Summer Vacation (2006), a witty tale of a teen girl’s transformative summer in Israel. Her Leaving Paradise series tackles forgiveness and second chances, while Wild Cards explores risky teen relationships. Elkeles’s style—sarcastic, emotional, and culturally rich—resonates with teens and adults alike, often compared to West Side Story for its modern take on star-crossed lovers.
To ensure authenticity, Elkeles conducted extensive research, even visiting a juvenile detention center for Leaving Paradise and immersing herself in Mexican-American culture for Perfect Chemistry. Her dialogue crackles with realism, capturing the raw, messy beauty of teenage love and identity.
Why Simone Elkeles Matters
Simone Elkeles has redefined young adult romance by blending cultural diversity with universal themes of love and acceptance. Her books, translated into languages like German and French, inspire reluctant readers, earning YALSA Top Ten Quick Picks honors. Named Author of the Year by the Illinois Association of Teachers of English in 2008, she’s a mentor to aspiring writers and a speaker at schools, igniting passion for reading. Elkeles’s stories remind us that love can bridge divides, making her a vital voice in contemporary literature.
About Simone Elkeles
- Born: April 24, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois
- Key Works: Perfect Chemistry, Rules of Attraction, How to Ruin a Summer Vacation
- Awards: 2010 RITA Award, 2008 Author of the Year (Illinois Association of Teachers of English)
- Fun Fact: She’s a sushi lover and former hockey mom!
Ready to fall in love with Simone Elkeles’s world? Grab Perfect Chemistry and dive into her sizzling, heartfelt romances today!