In Memoriam: Jo Beverley

by Mary Jo

It is with the deepest of sadness that we announce that our beloved Wench sister, Jo Beverley, died this afternoon.  It was not a surprise, but the end came more suddenly than any of us expected.  

Jo had quietly been through a very dangerous bout with cancer about five years ago, and had come through with flying colors.  The cancer was discovered to have returned some weeks ago, and it moved very quickly.  We all hoped for another miracle, but it was not to be.  Jo died very peacefully in a lovely care home in Yorkshire that used to be a convent, with her husband and her pal Charlie, the Cabbage Patch Kid, by her side.  

A Lancashire lass of Irish descent, she grew up by the sea, and always liked to live near it.  She never lost her lovely English accent, but she and her husband Ken moved to Canada not long after university and she became a proud Canadian with dual citizenship.  They raised their sons in Ottawa, then moved to Victoria, British Columbia, one of the loveliest small cities in the world.  

More recently, she said that "her heart yearned for England," and she and Ken moved back, though they were considering returning to Victoria for good.  

There was no one quite like Jo, with her calm English good sense and quiet warmth and dry wit, not to mention her taste for port wine and very dark chocolate.  She and I were friends for almost 30 years, and our careers have always tracked very closely.  In fact, my first book was published the month before Jo's first book, which pleased Melinda Helfer, the Regency reviewer for Romantic Times Magazine, because that way she could give each of us her Best New Regency Author award for two different years.  

Her full name was actually Mary Josephine (mine is Mary Jo), and I'm grateful that she went by Jo, because we were confused often enough as it was!  I would graciously accept compliments on my Rogue books, pointing out that they were actually Jo's Rogues.  It was an honor to be confused with her. (Add Mary Balogh to the mix, and the confusion grew exponentially!)

I first met Jo at an RWA conference when she was surrounded by enthusiastic Regency readers.  (You know how we become fan girls when we meet favorite authors!)  We were introduced, chatted, and she mentioned that she wanted to go to the RT conference in San Antonio and needed a roommate.  So did I, and that became the first of many conferences where we roomed together, most recently last summer at RWA in New York City. 

In San Antonio, Jo's white nighty got rolled up with the sheets and carried off and disappeared into the hotel laundry system.  The hotel looked for it and sent her occasional apologetic emails saying there had been a sighting, and surely they'd secure it some day. And they did, mailing the nighty to me because that was cheaper than sending it to Canada, so I presented it to Jo when I saw her next. We had some good chuckles over that.  

We all have many memories of Jo, her wonderful smile, her humor and intelligence, and we were lucky enough to secure her daughter-in-law, Melissa Beverley, as our site manager here at Word Wenches. (I see resemblances between Jo and Melissa, too.  Including the smiles.)

We invite you to share your memories here, whether you knew Jo in person or only through her books.  She won five RITAs--a full basketball team--and many other awards, including the RWA Hall of Fame.  Her books deserved all of that and more, and I'm happy to report that she had finished her book for next year, so we have that to look forward to.  

But Jo herself has moved on to the next great adventure, and oh! How we will miss her.

Mary Jo

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(Picture of Anne Gracie, Jo Beverley, Mary Jo Putney)

From Anne Gracie:

Like Andrea, I first met Jo at my very first RWA conference in 2001. I was, of course, a huge fan of her work, and so when I saw she was giving a talk I went. Standing room only, so I sat cross-legged in the aisle and listened. The talk was on "Flying Into the Mist" and it felt as though she was speaking directly to me. So inspiring.

I met her briefly afterward and told her how much I'd loved her most recent book, DEVILISH. The following evening she won the RITA with it . (Picture below of Jo with Julia Quinn, also a RITA winner that night.)

She won five RITAs altogether, and has left us all a legacy of most excellent books.  A few years later I met her in a more casual and relaxed situation at NINC conferences, where she shared her experience and much wisdom and good common sense.

Some years after that I joined the WordWenches, where we talk almost every day on email, and so our friendship developed. My last memory of seeing Jo in person was when she, Nicola, Mary Jo and I sat around drinking wine in my hotel room at the San Antonio conference, feet up, totally relaxed, just chatting and laughing and telling stories.

Vale, Jo. You will be greatly missed.

Anne

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(Picture of Anne, Jo, and Cara/Andrea)

From Cara/Andrea:

At my very first RWA Conference—I was a total newbie who had just sold my first book to Signet, I crept into a seminar Jo was giving. I had read her books, to me she was everything I aspired to be as an author—she understood Life in all its complexities, and crafted beautifully nuanced characters with a poetic command of language that made every word magical.

But in real life she was even more inspiring. She had a regal elegance and grace, and while her voice—with that wonderful English accent—was soft-spoken, there was no mistaking the quiet confidence she had in her craft and her professionalism. She helped pioneer respect for our genre, and that took the same strength, courage and daring to defy convention that she gave to her heroines.

 As fellow Word Wench, I was lucky enough to come to know Jo not just as a legendary icon and inspiration but also as a dear friend. In our daily Wench loop conversations she made us laugh with her pithy sense of humor and sharp wit, and when any of us were going through a tough time, she was always there to send a hug, along with support and encouragement.

I have no words to express how much I am going to miss her.

Cara/Andrea

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From Pat Rice:

My memory doesn't hold moments, it holds impressions. Like Andrea, I saw Jo as a person of elegance and grace, with a complete command of herself, her audience, and her writing. Her confidence was unshakeable, her knowledge and fascination with history, immense. She adapted quickly to changing tides in the industry, but her voice, her books, her characters, were unchanging in  originality and historical accuracy. I will miss her so much, that I cannot imagine how her family must be feeling in this moment. I know she's in a good place, but we who stay behind are bereft.

pat
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Susan King:

When Jo Beverley agreed to join a few of us as we began our blog, I remember how thrilled I was that she wanted to be part of the group. Jo was such a legend in historical romance, and deservedly so. In a sense, she was the quintessential romance writer: stories flowed freely through her, heroes and heroines were strong and unforgettable, themes had substance, her language had clarity and richness, her books were masterful, one after another. The connections among her stories were intricately mapped out in brilliant ways, and her sense of history was impeccable--and on top of that powerful combination of elements, she was elegantly English and very, very smart and far-seeing.

As a sister Wench and a friend to all of us behind the scenes of the blog -- where as others have mentioned, we email every day -- Jo was consistently wise and supportive, always a voice of reason, especially when our opinions piled on and we needed to make a decision. Jo was straightforward and had an ability to cut right to the heart of a matter. She often made the most sense, could be gently funny, and we always listened and learned.  

Like some of the other Wenches, I first met Jo at a conference when I was very green and timid, and she was--well, she was Jo Beverley, historical romance royalty itself, and I felt so awed by this tall, elegant British woman that I practically curtsied. Jo had an air of confidence and certainty, and never sought to be the center of attention--but she was nonetheless.

Though she was low-key and gracious, she had presence and a wonderful charisma. Her perspective on writing, creativity and publishing was balanced, and she was very open minded and curious about life beyond the world of writing. We had many fascinating discussions and I admired her openness, and over the years my initial respect for her grew to friendship.

The Wenches all deeply care about one another, and this loss shakes our family of Wenches. Jo was a quiet goddess in our midst, and we loved her and we are proud of her.

My heart goes out to her family--her love for her husband, two sons, her daughter-in-law, her granddaughter and her sisters was always evident. Jo will always be a Word Wench, and she will always be missed until we see her again.  

Susan

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From Joanna Bourne:

(Picture of Jo, Cara/Andrea, and Joanna)

It was my first National Conference and long, long ago. I’d smuggled three or four of Jo’s books into the signing hall, which you aren’t supposed to do.

It was one of those lulls in the signing and there was nobody in line in front of her. I sidled over, books in hand, and stood about five feet away, and didn't have the guts to actually, y’know, talk to her.

She looks up. So I laid the books down and said I-really-enjoy-your-writing-An-Unwilling-Bride-is-my-favorite-book-in-the-world-you-just-nail-the-aristocratic-Georgian-world-view-and . . .

I may have repeated myself a bit.

She signed the books and said, “Thank you. It’s one of my favorites, too.” After a while I backed slowly away.

I never told her about that meeting. I wish I had. She would probably have laughed.

Joanna

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From Nicola Cornick:
 
Like a number of other Wenches, I first met Jo at my very first RWA Conference in Dallas in 2003. Totally overawed, I approached her to sign a book for me and she was so gracious and charming it only served to awe me more. Since then I have got to know Jo though the Wenches and at the RWA and RNA conferences. What always struck me about her, along with her beautifully distinctive writing voice, was her wisdom and the generosity with which she shared it. I remember one very stimulating discussion at RNA Penrith about the differences between the US and the UK romance markets and I treasure those rare occasions when the Wenches met up for wine and laughter. Reading people’s memories and tributes to Jo has brought home to me how very much she is missed by all who knew her.

Nicola

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Please tell what you remember about Jo--

Picture at left of Jo at an NAL booksigning with Cara/Andrea behind her. Reader and writer Louisa Cornell is in pink.

Special thanks to Anne Gracie for producing all these wonderful pictures at a moment's notice.

Mary Jo

PS:  So many marvelous comments and memories and poems have been posted here.  I have smiles and tears as I read them.  It's impossible to respond to all of the comments directly, but all of us Wenches deeply appreciate this shared celebration of Jo's life and work.  We'll see that her family receives a copy of all the tributes later.--MJP

Comments

[willaful]

This is such a huge loss. She was one of my very first romance loves. I remember joking on Mary Balogh's mailing list, after trying an author I didn't care for that I was sticking to the Marys, Jos, and Mary Jos.

[Evelyn Alexie]

I'm sorry to hear of her passing. She inspired a lot of writers and delighted a lot of readers. I am glad that I got a chance last year to tell her how much one of her books meant to me.

[Lisa Hendrix]

I'm sitting here crying. Jo and I were just acquaintances, but once at a reader con, we spent a glorious hour geeking out together in an office supply store, united by our mutual love of pens and the search for the perfect notebook. She was a delight. My heart goes out to all the Wenches for the loss of your friend. The romance community has lost a treasure.

Rothgar forever!

[janice l dunlap]

Sad to hear of her passing I have all of her books and found her most recent book her best yet. My thoughts are with her friends and family. Jan Dunlap

[PJ Ausdenmore]

I'm heartbroken. Not only was Jo one of my favorite authors but she was one of the loveliest, most gracious ladies I've ever had the pleasure and honor of meeting. The world is a little less bright today but Heaven has gained a beautiful angel.

[DiDi]

Such a huge loss. She was one of the first romance authors I read. Rest In Paradise Jo.

[Carolyn Jewel]

I am so sorry to hear this news. My condolences to her family and loved ones. She spoke to my local RWA chapter once, and it was standing room only for one of the most inspiring and informational talks I've ever heard. Her Into The Mist talk was such a revelation to me. At the time, I didn't know there were others who wrote like that.

I love her books too. I've spend hours and hours immersed in her wonderful stories.

What sad, sad news.

[miriam Bresticker]

Fantastic author. She will be missed.

[Amara Royce]

Such a sad loss. What a lovely, gracious lady. I had the pleasure of meeting her in passing at the last RWA Nationals, and I admire her and her work. My heart goes out to her and her family. She will be deeply missed.

[Philippa Lodge]

I think I spotted her in person at the San Antonio conference. But hers were some of the first romance novels I read, ever. Amazing career, amazing talent. So sad.

[Deb Meredith]

I am so sorry to hear of her passing. I have been a huge fan of her books for years. She will be missed.

[Alison Stuart]

I first met JO at a RWAus conference but spent a wonderful day with her in Victoria where we had lunch (curry tiffin) and she gave my husband and I a personal guided tour of the museum (where she was a docent).
Vale Jo...

[Amy J]

So sorry to read this. When I was in college, email addresses were an exciting new thing...and I was fascinated that a person could interact with a real live author on RRA-L. Jo Beverley is the one I remember from that time, and as I stated earning spending money...one whose books I always had to buy.

[Author Adrianne Lee]

Jo didn't know me at all, but I knew who she was. And when I ran into her a couple of times at RWA national conferences, she was as nice to me as if she did know me. As if we were friends. I will never forget her. I'm so very sad that she is gone.

[Debi]

So sorry to hear about Jo's passing. She was one of many authors I love read. Rest in Peace.

[Mary Balogh]

Goodness, I can't quite imagine a world without Jo in it. She has been a part of my writing world almost from the beginning of my own career, and other commentators are quite right about her--she was regal, intelligent, eloquent, knowledgable, sensible, funny, and affectionate, with a commanding presence that was never either domineering or ego-driven. I always enjoyed meeting her at various conferences and conventions. She was a fellow-Brit and a fellow-Canadian--and a fellow writer and lover of all things Georgian and Regency. Mary Jo was right in her remarks. Mary, Mary Jo, Jo--it could be confusing for readers, and I too have frequently deflected praise onto the right recipient when readers have gushed over me for books one of the others wrote. It has been such an honor to have shared paths with two such writers for so long, and now one of them is gone. I will miss her and mourn her just as legions of her friends and colleagues and fans will do. Rest in peace, Jo.

[Kathy Lynn Emerson]

I am so sorry to hear this news. Jo was a warm, wonderful person as well as a terrific writer. Memory? Walking with Jo through a mall near the hotel at a long ago Ninc conference and talking about, of all things, hockey players. Well, she was living in Canada at the time.

[Sylvia Mease]

This is such a shock. Jo took me on as her US assistant last year, but I have known her for around 26 years. She is going to be missed by so many.

[Eileen Richards]

I'm so very sad right now. I've enjoyed her books for years and years. I never got to meet her unfortunately. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. She'll be missed.

[Laura Resnick]

A memory I have of Jo that says so much about who she was: I roomed with her several times at conferences. And on every occasion, after we unpacked in the room and settled in, we'd decide to go get a meal. Invariably, EVERY TIME, we'd set out as a party of two, and we'd arrive at the hotel coffee shop or nearby restaurant as a party of 8 or 10. Because between our room and wherever we were going, we'd meet friends of Jo's who were so happy to see her, as well as new conference attendees who looked alone and lost--and whom Jo invited to join us. She was always such a warm and down to earth person, and she attracted people like a magnet.

[Diana Brandt]

So sad. She was one of my favorites. I'll never forget how she took the time to respond with a genuine handwritten letter. Back in the day. Condolences to her many friends, fans and her family.

[Jenna Gibb]

I'm am so sorry and shocked by Jo's passing. She has been one of my favourite authors for years, and I always looked forward to her posts here. I will treasure her books. My heart goes out to those who knew her personally.

[Laura Banse]

RIP Jo Beverly. We will miss you. <3 <3 <3 <3

[Faith Freewom]

Heartfelt hugs to all you Wenches, for the loss of your dear friend, and to her family and loved ones.

Many of the fine qualities you describe came through vividly in Jo's characters, and I will miss being able to look forward at least annually to meeting new characters who, by their courage, dignity, and strength of character, inspired me to learn and grow as well.

[Sarah Wendell]

My favorite memory isn't so much a memory as it is a bookmark. I found this one web page a long time ago, and I don't even remember what I was looking for at the time - probably names for a historical romance that I started when I was in grad school that never made it past the middle of chapter one.

Beverley's website has this wonderful "Regency Names" page, and it has been one of my bookmarks for years and years, through multiple computer upgrades and browser file imports.

http://www.jobev.com/regname.html

Why?

Among the women's Regency names, to quote Ms. Beverley herself: Uriana (Yes, really.)

And then, farther down: Busick (I think Uriana and Busick would make a great couple!)

YES. Yes, they would. So I'm raising a quiet toast to all the hours spent in Jo Beverley's Regency, and to Uriana and Busick.

[Barbara Vey]

This makes me so sad. I met Jo Beverley when I went on the first Authors at Sea cruise in 2006 (I think). She invited me to tea with her and Laura Kinsale because I sent her an email saying I loved her books (this was before I started blogging with Publishers Weekly). She had the most lovely accent and I could listen to her all day.

[Samantha Craig]

I only knew her through her books and this blog. She will be missed but her books will live on forever. I know they are on my keeper shelf. Blessings and prayers to those left behind. May her light shine eternally.

[Debbie Lawton]

So sorry to hear about Jo's passing. I have loved her books for years and feel that they reflected a really great person writing them. My prayers and thoughts to all of her family and friends.

[Patricia Franzino]

I'm so very sorry for the loss of Jo Beverley. I enjoyed her books over many years.

[Patricia Rice]

Thank you, everyone, for your comments. Please keep them coming. The wenches are still dealing with the shock behind the scenes, but her family is aware of the blog, and your sharing of Jo's life is a blessing. Her personality shines through in every one of these pieces.

[Kelly Hunter]

I've no pics or stories to share, but have found such joy in Jo's books over the years. A sad loss but what a gorgeous legacy to leave behind.

[Jaci Tobin]

She is one of my favorite authors, Loved her Rogues and Mallorens...All her books were keepers and I had hoped to meet her one day and tell her how her writing changed the books that I read....I am very sad and hope she is at peace now.

[Carol hallberg]

I'm stunned and saddened to hear of Jo Beverley's passing. Fabulous author. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.

[Karenmc]

The Mallorens and the Company of Rogues gob-smacked me when I was a new romance reader. I had no idea of the riches waiting in the Georgian and Regency eras, but I learned quickly as I devoured book after book. So sorry to hear that she's gone, but so glad to have all of her writing.

[Karen]

What a loss to the world of romantic writers and readers. Her stories are wonderful. So sad.

[Phyl]

To all of her family and friends, my deepest condolences. When I re-discovered romance a decade ago, she was one of the first authors I read. I devoured her books and am so grateful for the hours of reading pleasure. I feel an epic re-read coming on. RIP, Jo. You'll be missed.

[April Kihlstrom]

I knew Jo Beverley online and met her in person at RWA, of course. I still remember her keynote speech to the Beau Monde. The world has lost a wonderful writer and I have lost a friend.

[Laura Taylor]

Heartfelt condolences to Jo Beverley's family. She was, and will always be remembered as, a gracious and uniquely talented icon in our writing community.

[Elizabeth Essex]

I'm teary even though I only knew Jo through her books and her wonderful "Flying into the Mist" talks. I adored her stories—my keeper shelf is crowded with her work.

My most heartfelt condolences go out to her family, and to those of you who counted her as your friend. I think I'll spend the evening with "Hazard," which is one of my personal favorites.

[Patricia Burroughs aka Pooks]

I knew Jo on GEnie, such a very long time ago, but then we lost connection. It made no difference. Her books were so wonderful, they always remained a presence in my life.

May light perpetual shine upon her.

[Candice Hern]

Oh no. Sad news for us all. When I first discovered Regency romances many years ago (when a bookseller who knew I loved Georgette Heyer turned me onto them) Jo and Mary Balogh were the first authors I read. And I was hooked. Loved her books first, then met her and came to adore her as well. I will forever be thankful for all the joy she has given me -- through her wonderful books, her posts here at Word Wenches,and her many excellent workshops at conferences. RIP, Jo.

[Joanna Shupe]

Oh, no. This is sad news, indeed. A true talent and she will be missed by romance writers and readers alike. My condolences to her family and friends. RIP.

[Bonnie]

Im in shock at this point. I never met this wonderful author, but I felt i knew her through her works. She was a very passionate writer and it showed in her works. She will be missed

[Ruth Kaufman]

Her "Flying through the mist" workshop gave me faith that being a pantser worked despite the naysayers who insisted plotting first was the only way to go. The romance community won't be the same.

[Pamela Browning]

I'm so sorry to learn of Jo's passing. We first met in Ottawa many years ago before Jo was published. Our mutual writer friend said, "Jo's going to be published someday," and I was delighted for her when she was. Years later, at a Novelists, Inc. conference in Santa Fe, we spent a lovely day enjoying the New Mexico scenery together. She will be missed by her friends, her fans, and her writer friends, but her work lives on to enrich us all.

[Andrea Penrose]

Thank you, everyone for sharing your thoughts about Jo. I can't begin to express how much all of us Wenches will miss out dear friend. But a great source of solace is that she'll continue to give inspiration and joy to so many people through her wonderful books.

[Sue from Renfrew]

I am devastated to learn of Jo's loss. I met her in Ottawa at a writer's meeting. I crashed it just to meet her and pretended to write just to get in! She gave a fascinating talk about motivation and accuracy, both pet peeves at the time. I sat enthralled and told her I was a big fan. She signed my hard cover of Devilish and we had a lovely chat.
I hope the family gets some comfort from knowing she made many, many people happy and that we mourn with them.

[Kathleen]

Oh @*?@?*. R.I.P. Jo. You will be missed by your ever enthusiastic fans. For myself I will miss your postings especially the ones that gave me an insight into good old England's History. I have always liked history and eventually that moved onto the Monarchy which expanded to the rest of Europe & Asia.
I will miss you and your very fertile imagination. Cancer appears to be today's TB or Polio.
There are a few of your books I haven't read yet so that will keep me going for awhile.
Bon Voyage my favourite Historical Romance Writer.

[Lynn Raye Harris]

Oh my goodness, I am so sorry to hear this! I was a huge Jo Beverley fan girl. I never met her in person, but I "met" her on GEnie Romex back in the day. And I joined her then-snail mail newsletter. Oddly enough, just a week ago, my mother gave me an unopened letter she'd found while going through some boxes. It was a newsletter from Jo, sent to my parents' address because I'd been living with them when my husband was stationed in Korea several years ago. It's dated Spring 2004, and she included a couple of signed bookplates. I loved her books. I used to run out and buy them brand new, then devour them immediately. I couldn't wait for the newest one, and as an aspiring author at the time, I studied them, trying to learn just *how* she did it. How did she make those characters so real and wonderful? How did she make me need to know more? How did she make me think if I did enough research, I'd find mention of them in the historical records of the time? I need to go and reread my Jo Beverley collection. I'm so sad to hear she has left us. Hugs to her friends and family, and to all her readers who will miss her.

[Joanna Novins]

I couldn't be more shocked. Jo was amazing...smart...and vital. I vividly remember the first time I met her. It was my first Ninc conference. She and MaryJo were discussing the biological imperatives of romance And the last time, again a Ninc conference. Marianna Jameson and I were fortunate enough to lure her into having dinner with us...

My condolences to her family and to the all the wenches. I cannot begin to fathom the depths of your loss.

[Justine Davis]

You know how sometimes when you first "meet" someone online and then you meet them in person, they sound different than you expected? Not Jo. I always knew she'd have that lovely, regal accent, and always heard all her notes and posts in that voice. She was the heart and soul of our group of dear friends, and I can't exaggerate the size of the hole she will leave. To know I'll never again see a message from her, signed with her ever-present "Cheers," breaks my heart.

[Michele]

I'm sad, not only for the loss to the world of books and me, but for the loss of your friend. My sympathy to all of you.

[Diane P. Diamond]

I was absolutely shocked and heart broken to hear about Jo's death. I always enjoyed reading her books. She will be missed deeply by so many people. My condolences to all of her family and friends.

[Shackle52]

So sorry to hear this. She brought me so many hours of reading pleasure. My condolences to her family and friends.

[Manda Collins]

I am heartbroken. I was lucky enough to meet her after two decades of being a fan and she was just as lovely and gracious as I knew she'd be. She was, along with MJP, Mary Balogh, and Edith Layton, Jo Beverley was among my earliest Regency reads. And I've recommended Emily and the Dark Angel to more readers than I can count. I knew she wouldn't live forever, but I wasn't ready to lose her yet. Thank you, Jo, for giving me a love of an Era that's given me years of great reads and a career of my own. RIP

[Sandie Retzlaff]

I really hate to hear this. She was one of my favorite authors and she will certainly be missed.

[Lynne Connolly]

Jo was my mentor, and a friend. How could you not be friends with a woman so kind, generous and patient?
Her true love was the medieval, but whatever period she wrote in, she made the reader inhabit it.
When I was a brand-new newbier than newbie, she rewrote my query letter, so it sounded less like a business document. "You're much nicer than this makes you sound," she said. That was typical of her.
I got to know her better when she came to Britain. I loved that she didn't bear fools gladly. We didn't agree on everything, and I loved that too, because it meant we could discuss stuff.
I'm going to miss her like the dickens.

[Roseanna Crawford]

My thoughts and prayers for Jo Beverley's family. She brought me so many hours of enjoyment, love her Rogues.

[Polly Cassady]

Once upon a time I wandered into a bookstore. I had not been reading for years, but I was looking for something to light the spark again. Jo Beverley's Malloren books caught my eye, and I was hooked. I think I have all of her books on my keeper shelves, except the newest one. That one I read in one night, then sent to my mom - it was too good not to share immediately. (Mom will give it back.) I am glad we have one more book to look forward to - but it won't be enough. What a great loss her voice will be.

[marymarvella]

She was delightful in a Brit, elegant way! "Flying into the Mist" spoke to me so many years ago!

[Johanna]

Thank you for sharing your lovely stories with me. I appreciate the effort you put into giving me so much pleasure. Peace for you and your family.

[Steven Zacharius]

So sad to learn of this news. Jo was a class act all the way. We were honored at Kensington Publishing to have published some of her wonderful words. Our condolences to her friends and family.

Steve Zacharius

[Dorothy Thompson]

Bless your heart I am so sorry for your loss.

[Claire McEwen]

I didn't know Jo Beverly as a friend, but I had the great fortune to spend a few hours with her last summer. I walked into a volunteer job at RWA in New York, and there she was, Jo Beverly, volunteering with me! I'm a longtime fan of her books, and at first I was totally star struck. But it was just her and me in what must have been the quietest volunteer job in the conference, and we ended up sitting and talking the entire time. We spoke about her family, her home, the book she was working on. I was too shy to speak much about myself but I loved listening to her tell stories in her gorgeous voice. She was so friendly, gracious and encouraging. She told me to keep writing no matter what, to never stop learning, and to always try to write better books. Great advice from a wonderful author and a memory I'll always cherish. I am so very sorry to hear that she has left us and my heart goes out in deepest sympathy to her family and close friends.

[Jeanette]

I feel as if I have lost a good friend and I only knew Jo through her books and blogs. I can only imagine the loss the Wenches, other authors, friends and family must be feeling. Jo is on to her next great adventure. The rest of us will hold her in our hearts. I just shared a piece on Facebook that I will put here as well. It's how I would want to be remembered while those I love and who loved me wait to be reunited. By Henry Scott-Holland

Death is nothing at all. I have only slipped away into the next room. I am I and you are you.Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by my old familiar name.
Speak to me in the easy way you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we always enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without effort, without the ghost of a shadow in it. Life means all that it ever meany. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolute unbroken continuity.
What is death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am waiting for you for an interval somewhere very near, just around the corner.
All is well. Nothing is past; nothing is lost. One brief moment and all will be as it was before. How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!

[Laura Landon]

This is indeed a huge loss. There is now an empty spot in the historical world that will never be filled by anyone quite like Jo Beverley. We miss you Jo.

[Joan Orielle Bessac Steelquist]

I have never met Jo but she is my absolute favorite author.

Jo's stories were all unique, fresh and humane. Her characters believable, lovable and enjoyable. I can only think that she was a lovely as her creations.

I have read her stories many, many times and am, just now, re-reading the Company of Rogues...with this very sad news the stories have more poignancy since I know there will be no more sightings of Nicholas and Eleanor or my favorites, Beth and Luce. To jump back further in time, no more sightings of Bey and Diana...Cyn and Chastity...the list of marvelous people goes on and on.

To shamelessly plagiarize - To all the fallen: may they be young in heaven. To all the wounded: may they have strength and heal. To all the bereaved: may they feel joy again. And please God, may there one day be an end to cancer.

My condolences to all her family and friends.

[Christina McKnight]

Once A Solider is sitting next to me as I type this...I'm at a complete loss. I grew up pilfering Jo's books from my mom's shelves. I fell in love with her older books (Hazard and My Lady Notorious). The writing community has lost such a talented woman and artist.

[Tina Steele-Kersey]

So sad. She will be greatly missed

Arksarge

[Mary Terry]

I "met" Jo when I was looking for another book to read, and saw her last name -- the same name as my favorite aunt! Kid it! I picked up the book and fell in love. I Always enjoyed a new Jo Beverly book, and they are on my reread list. She'll be missed.

[trudy]

This is such a shock and so sad. My condolences to Jo's family and friends. I met Jo several times at conferences and she was a wonderful speaker. And such a font of information and so generous in sharing. She was my favorite, daring, go to regency author. You, milady, shall be missed.

[Vicki L.]

I am so sorry to hear this news. I've always greatly enjoyed her blog posts on here and will miss them dreadfully.

My heart goes out to all her dear Wenchly friends, fellow writers and especially her family.

[Kareni]

My sympathies to all of you and also to Jo's family.

[Lauren Royal]

Oh, I am so sad to hear this. I read and loved Jo’s books, especially her Mallorens, long before I was published. Shortly after my first book came out, I was invited to be part of a historical romance anthology called “In Praise of Younger Men”—a concept that Jo had developed and sold to Signet Books. All I could think of for weeks was: OMG, my name is going to be on a cover with Jo Beverley! Talk about dreams come true. RIP, Jo. You will be so, so missed.

[Patricia Perez]

I am so sorry to hear of Jo's passing. . She was one of the first authors I read and made me want more. My heart goes out to her family and friends. R.I.P. Sweet lady

[Miranda Neville]

I am shocked and sad. Jo and MJP were the two "modern" Regency writers who first inspired me. She will be missed so much.

[Keira Soleore]

I am devastated by this news. She was one of my absolute favorite authors and such a gracious person.

I distinctly remember the spring I discovered her books. First the Mallorens, then the Rogues, then the medieval, then the Regencies. I bought every book of hers I could lay my hands on and I read them back-to-back. Me and my red rocking chair and JoBev--we were united that spring.

Then that summer at the RWA conference, I met her in person. I was floored. I stammered and blushed and babbled incoherently. She listened very patiently, said "thank you," gave me a bookmark, and signed my book. I also attended her "Flying into the Mist" workshop. And every RWA that I attended after that: I met her at the signing and attended her workshop.

Despite all my gushing over the years, I don't think I have ever managed to quite convey my love of her books and her influence over me as an aspiring writer. She's going to be so missed, so missed. The historical romance fiction world is forever dimmed.

And to you, Wenches, and others in this thread who were privileged to know her personally, my hugs and heartfelt condolences.

[Karin]

My sincere condolences to Jo's family, and to the other Wenches who I know are feeling a terrible loss. I never met Jo, but I loved reading her posts and comments at this blog over the years, and it makes me feel like I knew her a bit. I will miss her wit and humor, and most of all, her books. I loved everything she wrote, her Malloren world, her Rogues, her Regencies and her medievals. Feeling very sad, but I will dig into my keepers and reread my favorites.

[Emily Greenwood]

Such sad news. Jo's books have brought me so much reading pleasure. Such wonderfully written, fully imagined stories. And as I made my first forays into writing, I was also encouraged by her essays on writing that were on her website. I, too, met her at an RWA conference, and she was so kind and smart and down-to-earth. My condolences to her family and friends.

[Doranna]

Oh, I am SO sorry to hear this. Jo was one of the good ones in all ways.

[Ginger Calem]

Oh my word, my heart aches to hear of Jo's passing. I have a memory of her that is so special and dear to me. I met her at the Surrey Int. Writers' Conference. It was one of (if not my very first) writers' conference. The last day was a Sunday lunch and Jo walked up to the table where I was sitting with our writing group. She was so gracious and kind. At the end of lunch, we were asked to remove our name tag lanyards so they could recycle them. Jo had a 'Presenter' ribbon on hers. I commented that someday I'd like to have one of those on my name tag. She took the ribbon from her name tag and stuck it to my name tag. She then told me to focus on that and never give up that goal and to work hard, never give up.

Many (MANY - like nearly a decade) years later, after attending that conference many times, I attended as a presenter and got my own presenter ribbon for my name tag. I still have the ribbon she gave me. I treasure it. I emailed her when I found out I'd be a presenter and thanked her for so graciously lighting a fire in me and helping me to chase a dream with determination. She emailed me back with a lovely reply.

She's a GEM. May she rest in peace and love. I know she will be missed immensely.

[Laura Boon]

I discoverd Jo Beverley, like all of the Wenches, through Anne Gracie. It has been the most fortunate discovery of my reading life. All your books give me hours of pleasure, all different to keep me entertained but all revealing humour and love. Jo's most recent release, The Viscount Needs a Wife, is sitting next to my bed right now. The last story of hers I read was 'Miss Finch and the Angel' in The Last Chance Christmas Ball. I may be wrong, but I thought I felt her influence throughout the book from the prologue on, in the gentle wit and beautiful language and the way many individual's personal darkness was made light.

[Lara Lacombe]

I'm so sorry to hear this--my condolences to her family and friends. What a huge blow to the romance community! :(

[Lind Hurst]

I am just heart broken what a lovely person, as well as a wonderful author.

Twice when I was in Victoria, No picked me and a companion and took us out for tea and shopping. She was so generous with her time and had a wonderful sense of humor. She will be missed and I hate the idea of no more Rogue/ Malloran books to look forward to eacH year.

I feel so bad losing her friendship that I can only imagine the pain her family feels. They will be in my prayers.

[Bianca Hamblin]

I'm so shocked to have read this, Jo Beverly was one of the few writers that
I bought all her books from to read and keep, most after I've read them I give away but never her books.....I'm so very much am going to miss her!
Rest in peace dear Jo, and thank you for the many wonderful hours I spend and still will spend reading your stories.

[Elizabeth Rolls]

I'm so sorry to hear this. Jo was one of my absolute favourite authors. It's a terrible loss for romance and writing. I only met her once but liked her enormously. The loss for the Wenches and all her friends and family, I can only imagine. Hugs to all of you.

[Elaine K]

Such a loss, but such a wonderful legacy. I finally tracked down the last Company of Rogues books I hadn't yet read last year. What an impressive accomplishment that series is! And to have a second series set in a different period that is equally brilliant. Many writers could learn from her, and not just romance writers. I think there must be a particular place in heaven for romance writers and that the other tenants there are just like us -- eagerly awaiting the next story.

[margaret evans porter]

We began as Walker & Co. authors at about the same times, and were both acquired by Signet. I cannot believe she is gone. Condolences to her family, colleagues, and many fans.
So many conference memories. And of course, the novels.
I am comforted in knowing she and Edith are having a delightful chin-wag, reunited in heaven.

[LouisaCornell]

Writing through tears here and I can't believe this news.Like so many have said, I knew she would not live forever, but I am not ready for her to be gone. All I want is one more conference, one more time to tell her what an inspiration she has been to me, how very much her books meant and continue to mean to me. The first time I met her I was utterly starstruck. It was at a literacy signing and I babbled like an idiot. Then she discovered I had lived in England and we chatted as if she was a mere mortal interested in my impressions of England. She never failed to speak to me at any conference and to ask how my writing was going. Any of us writing historical romance today stand on the shoulders of giants. Jo Beverley was and remains one such giant. And as a person, if ever there was a gracious lady of the realm in every sense of the word it was Jo Beverley. She has left us such an amazing legacy, but oh it isn't nearly enough. Not nearly enough. My very deepest sympathies to her family and friends. I cannot begin to imagine the depth of their loss. (And the lady in pink in that last photo is me. There is a photo of me with Jo Beverley on the wall of my writing studio. It has been one of my most treasured possessions and never more so than now.)

[Diane Gaston]

I'm stunned by this news. Jo was such a lovely lady! I admired her greatly.

[Lcalvin]

I only know Jo Beverley online and from her books and blogs but this is a tragic loss. She was an amazing and original writer who helped change the genre in many ways. My exclamation of dismay brought my adult son running in to see if I was ok.

My thoughts to her friends and family.

[Elizabeth Benson-Cox]

My heart aches with sadness. I am so sorry to hear of Jo's passing! I love her books so much! My condolences to all her family and friends.

[Vickie Denney]

Jo was an exceptional person and author! She will remain an icon in the industry forever. I have always felt honored to have met her at an RWA conference many, many years ago. I was a bookseller receiving an award and I was so nervous that evening. We struck up a conversation about historical romances and all things Regency. At first I was rather in awe of her (a real groupie) but she quickly put me at ease. She was so down to earth, funny, gracious, supportive... the list goes on. I'm so very sad, as we all are, to think we not have her special in-put on many things. She will always be one of my favorite people - favorite authors.

[Alisha woods]

Never met her in person, but my heart is broken. Have all of her books. Her latest is on my TzbR shelf

[Collette Cameron]

So very sad.

She will be missed tremendously, and historical romance will never be the same.

[Jenette Campbell]

OH I AM SO SHOCKED AND SO SADDENED BY THIS, MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES TO ALL OF HER FAMILY AND HER FRIENDS.A WONDERFUL WRITER, SHE WILL BE MISSED FOR THAT ALONE BY US READERS BUT I WISH I COULD JUST HUG YOU ALL, HER FAMILY, HER FRIENDS. ALL I CAN DO IS SEND YOU MY LOVE AND PRAYERS AND SYMPATHIES AT THIS TIME XOXOXOXOXOXOXO :(

[Terri Reed]

Such sad news. My heart hurts. I love her books and I still remember two pieces of advice she gave at an RWA luncheon: take care of your health ( she was telling a story about being low in iron. I went to my doctor that next week to have my iron level checked) and just write the damn book which I say to myself often when I'm writing and obsessing over every detail. She was a wise woman and will be missed.

[Sharyn Lewis]

I'm so sad to hear this news. I met Jo at my very first Romance readers conference and was lucky enough to sit next to Jo at one of the dinners. We ended up talking about privy hedges of all things! Yes, at dinner! I still have the pamphlet she made that describes the order of each rank of the English peerage and how to address each rank correctly. I will miss Jo and am glad that she has her books to live on as her legacy.

[Diane Sallans]

I'm so sorry for everyones loss - her family, her friends and her readers. She will be missed by so many.

[Lana Williams]

I'm so sad to hear this! I heard her speak at RWA one year and was riveted when she spoke of The Secret. It was like getting a sneak peek into her writing world. I adore her stories and was so thrilled to have the chance to work on the Past Thrills book of excerpts with her. Sharing a cover that had her name on it was a milestone for me. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and everyone who was touched by her amazing spirit. RIP