Julie Elizabeth Garwood (née Murphy) was an acclaimed American writer, known for her romance novels in the historical and suspense subgenres. She was born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1944 and passed away on June 8, 2023.

Garwood's journey into the world of literature began with challenges. At the age of six, complications from a surgery left her behind in school, but the guidance of a dedicated teacher, Sister Mary Elizabeth, transformed her into an avid reader and eventually a passionate writer.

Married to Gerry Garwood, she was a mother to three children. Garwood began her writing career after her youngest child started school. Her breakthrough came with her first romance novel, Gentle Warrior, published in 1985, under her married name. This marked the beginning of a prolific career, with over 20 novels gracing the bestseller lists of major publications such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.

Achievements and Impact: Over 35 million copies of her books are in print, and she has at least 24 New York Times Bestsellers. Her novel For the Roses was adapted into the television feature Rose Hill.

Renowned for her masterful storytelling, Garwood's books are cherished for their humor, emotional depth, and surprising plot twists. Her Irish heritage, growing up in a large family, and a love for storytelling played a significant role in shaping her narrative skills.

Legacy: Garwood's legacy extends beyond her novels. She was an advocate for literacy and shared her love of reading with student groups.

Julie Garwood resided in Leawood, Kansas, where she lived with her family and continued to influence the literary world.