Picture a Texan storyteller who fuses futuristic tech with sizzling romance—meet Vivien Jackson! A self-proclaimed geek and master of 'salacious kissery,' Jackson burst onto the science fiction romance scene with her electrifying debut, Wanted and Wired, a RITA Award finalist that hooked readers with its gritty dystopia and heart-pounding love story. Her novels weave complex characters, intricate world-building, and a dash of humor, making her a standout in genre-blending fiction.
From her Austin, Texas, home, where she lives with her geeky partner, kids, and two Chihuahuas, Jackson crafts stories that feel like a wild ride through a cyberpunk dreamscape. Her unique voice, shaped by a lifelong love of sci-fi and fandoms like Doctor Who and Firefly, has earned her a devoted following. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the journey of this genre-defying author!
The Making of Vivien Jackson
Vivien Jackson grew up in a family of nerds, rolling dice in tabletop RPGs and geeking out over video games. With an English degree under her belt, she devoured countless books, from J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasies to Neal Stephenson’s cyberpunk classics. Her early writing dabbled in fan fiction and Regency romances, but her true calling emerged when she blended her love for science fiction with steamy romance. Inspired by authors like Sherry Thomas and Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Jackson honed a style that balances action, emotion, and wit, paving the way for her breakout success.
Vivien Jackson’s Unforgettable Stories
Jackson’s debut, Wanted and Wired (2017), kicked off her Tether series with a bang. Set in a chaotic future where Texas has seceded, it follows rogue scientist Heron Farad and gun-for-hire Mari Vallejo as they navigate a high-stakes chase fueled by betrayal and fiery chemistry. The novel’s blend of dystopian tech, snarky humor, and lush romance earned it an Amazon Best Book of 2017 nod and an SFR Galaxy Award.
The Tether series continued with Perfect Gravity (2017), a gritty tale of reunited lovers in a world of cyborgs and political intrigue, and More Than Stardust (2018), which dives deeper into Jackson’s richly imagined universe. Her standalone The Girl Who Fell From the Sky (2020), co-written with Rebecca Royce, explores love and survival on a primitive planet, showcasing her knack for crafting diverse, kick-ass heroines. Jackson’s style—vivid, tech-heavy, and unapologetically romantic—appeals to fans of both sci-fi and paranormal romance, with prose so polished it’s been called 'technically perfect' by readers.
Why Vivien Jackson Matters
Vivien Jackson’s work pushes the boundaries of science fiction romance, blending high-octane adventure with emotional depth. Her strong, self-sufficient heroines and nuanced male leads challenge genre stereotypes, while her focus on tech ethics and human connection resonates in our tech-driven world. As a RITA finalist, she’s helped elevate the visibility of sci-fi romance, inspiring readers to embrace love stories set against futuristic backdrops. Her fandom-fueled energy and relatable geekiness make her a beloved figure for readers craving escapism with heart.
- Pen Name: Vivien Jackson
- Key Works: Wanted and Wired, Perfect Gravity, More Than Stardust, The Girl Who Fell From the Sky
- Awards: RITA Award finalist (2018), SFR Galaxy Award winner (2017)
- Hometown: Austin, Texas
Snag Wanted and Wired and dive into Vivien Jackson’s thrilling sci-fi romance universe! Whether you’re a fan of cyborgs, rebels, or steamy love stories, her books promise a wild, unforgettable ride.