Sarah

MacLean

Romance Novelist

NYT Bestseller

Travels from: New York, NY

“Sarah MacLean’s books are fierce.” — Julia Quinn, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton series

New York Times, Washington Post & USA Today bestseller Sarah MacLean wrote her first novel on a dare and never looked back. Translated into more than twenty-five languages, the books that make up “The MacLeaniverse” are beloved by readers worldwide.

In addition to her novels, Sarah is a leading advocate for the romance genre, speaking widely on its place as a feminist text and a cultural bellwether. A former columnist for the New York Times, the Washington Post and Bustle, she is a founding board member of Authors Against Book Bans and the co-host of the weekly romance podcast, Fated Mates.

Sarah's Featured Titles

Joy as Resistance: The Political Power of the Romance Novel

The History and Legacy of the Modern Romance Genre

Writing Romance 101 with Sarah MacLean

The Romance Revolution: The Power & Purpose of the Romance Novel in a Fast-Changing World

Bestselling author, romance historian and evangelist Sarah MacLean will speak on the importance of a vast, vibrant romance fiction landscape, discussing the work of the genre, its history, and the powerful impact it has on readers and beyond.

“We loved working with Sarah MacLean! She was generous with her time and easy to work with. Her enthusiasm for supporting writers is contagious and her workshops were clear and concise. And her keynote was thoughtful and empowering.” — Romance Writers of Australia, 2025

“One of the leading progressive feminist voices writing romance today. Her work takes on the topics of classism, sexism, racism, police corruption and the normalization of sexual desire.” — Brooklyn Magazine

“When it comes to crafting wonderfully escapist love stories composed of equal measures of sexy romance and sharp wit, literary newcomer MacLean is unrivaled.” — Chicago Tribune

“MacLean writes with an entirely unique blend of elegance and ferocity that bursts from every page.” — Entertainment Weekly

“Sarah MacLean’s books are fierce.” — Julia Quinn, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton series

“Get ready for regency romance and badassery! MacLean returns to England, and this time pairs up an unlikely couple: a secret thief masquerading as a wallflower and a spoiled duke. Hijinks and heat ensue as they race across Britain to stop a wedding.” — Book Riot

“Bestselling author Sarah MacLean’s Regency romance novels are always worth getting excited about, and Heartbreaker is no different.” — Popsugar

“Romance readers can always rely on Sarah MacLean to bring the summer heat.” — Bookish

“…filled with intimate thoughts, delicious yearning, and many sighworthy romantic moments… Subplots regarding the Hell’s Belles’ clients and targets add great tension to the book, while the women’s friendship brings levity and humor. But it’s the quiet, vulnerable moments between the central couple, who embrace each other as true equals, that will ensnare reader’s hearts. Sublimely sensual and passionate.” — Kirkus Reviews

“MacLean gathered accolades for the first in her “Hell’s Belles” series (LJ star–earner Bombshell), and this book continues on that high note with a great deal of wit, heart, and heat. Smart writing, deep characterizations, and a zippy pace will keep readers immersed while MacLean’s deft hand at a number of romance tropes simply delights. An essential title from a key author, buy in droves and share with fans of Erica Ridley.” — Library Journal (starred review)

Sarah’s Recommended Reading

Fated Mates podcast

Sarah MacLean on Writing Romance

Honors, Awards & Recognition

International Bestseller
LibraryReads Hall of Fame author
Indiebound Bestseller
New York Times Bestseller
USA Today Best Seller
The Washington Post Bestseller

Media clips

Brooklyn Magazine | Romance Writer Sarah MacLean: ‘Happiness is Terrifying to Tyranny’

The Boston Globe | Never Judge a Smithie by Her Cover: Sarah Maclean on the Romance Genre

Washington Independent | The novelist talks Hell’s Belles, the essence of romance, and giving her heroines agency

Media Kit

By clicking the link below you will be directed to a Google Docs Folder
where you can download author photos and cover images.