Meet
Diane Merrill Wigginton
Award-Winning Author and Master Storyteller
Diane Merrill Wigginton’s storytelling journey began in California, where her early love for poetry, short stories, and history evolved into a lifelong career. From historical romance to suspense and children’s fiction, Diane’s writing is known for its rich characters and immersive settings. Her books connect with readers on a personal level, reflecting her belief that storytelling can inspire, heal, and entertain across genres.
The Journey to Becoming a Published Author
Diane Merrill Wigginton’s writing journey began in her early years, but it wasn’t until later in life that she fully embraced her dream of becoming a published author. Born in Riverside, California, Diane’s love for storytelling blossomed as she grew up in San Diego. Inspired by her diverse experiences and rich family life, she has penned a series of novels that explore the depth of historical romance, family ties, and adventure.
As a mother and grandmother, Diane’s storytelling is deeply rooted in the importance of love, family, and overcoming adversity. Today, she enjoys life in Kalispell, Montana, where she draws inspiration from the breathtaking beauty of the outdoors. Her books captivate readers with compelling characters and emotional depth, and Diane is known for creating memorable narratives filled with romance, suspense, and thrilling twists.
Diane’s Journey to Writing
Diane’s path to authorship wasn’t always clear-cut. As a young writer, she won several awards in the John J. Thurman Young Author Contest, which fueled her early passion for writing. Her creative career then took a professional turn, leading her into the realm of marketing, public relations, and corporate communications. Despite the demands of a busy career and raising a family, Diane’s dream of publishing remained steadfast.
In her 50s, after a lifetime of putting family first, Diane decided to make time for herself and embrace her writing passion. This decision led to the creation of her first historical romance novel, Angelina’s Secret, and the birth of the Jeweled Dagger Series, a captivating saga that blends historical fiction with heart-pounding adventure.
Award-Winning Works: A Legacy of Recognition
Diane Merrill Wigginton’s work has not only captivated readers but also garnered numerous prestigious awards:
Recognizing her furry friend’s longing, Marisa surprises Luca with a new playmate – the energetic Sonny, a Labrador puppy brimming with life. Initially, Luca struggles to share his space and beloved owner with the newcomer. As the two navigate the challenges of coexisting in their cozy apartment, they embark on a journey of learning, understanding the importance of sharing and taking turns. Through a series of heartwarming and humorous adventures, Luca and Sonny forge an unbreakable bond, transforming from cautious companions to inseparable friends.
Benjamin Franklin Digital Award 2017
for Angelina’s Secret
Reader’s Choice Awards 1st Place Historical Fiction 2019
for Lara’s Story
Outstanding Creator Awards 2023:
1st Place Suspense, 2nd Place Romance, 2nd Place Women’s Fiction (for A Compromising Position)
2023 Global Book Awards Silver Medal
for Romantic Suspense (for A Compromising Position)
2024 Literary Titan’s Book Award
for The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn, The Dreaded Pirate Captain
These accolades highlight Diane’s exceptional talent for creating stories that resonate deeply with readers across genres.
The Jeweled Dagger Series: A Historical Romance Epic
Diane’s path to authorship wasn’t always clear-cut. As a young writer, she won several awards in the John J. Thurman Young Author Contest, which fueled her early passion for writing. Her creative career then took a professional turn, leading her into the realm of marketing, public relations, and corporate communications. Despite the demands of a busy career and raising a family, Diane’s dream of publishing remained steadfast.
In her 50s, after a lifetime of putting family first, Diane decided to make time for herself and embrace her writing passion. This decision led to the creation of her first historical romance novel, Angelina’s Secret, and the birth of the Jeweled Dagger Series, a captivating saga that blends historical fiction with heart-pounding adventure.
Angelina’s Secret
Lady Angelina Stewart’s adventure begins with a sea voyage that leads her into a world of danger and desire, filled with
swashbuckling pirates and passion.
Isabella’s Heart (Jeweled Dagger Series Book 2)
Olivia’s Promise (Jeweled Dagger Series Book 3)
Olivia Townsend’s unique gift of communicating with spirits leads her into a mysterious and perilous journey, where, truth, and redemption await.
About the Book
Lara's Story
Lara’s Story follows Lara Flannigan, whose life is shattered by tragedy and forced servitude in 1840s Ireland. Rescued by an American couple, she starts anew in Philadelphia’s high society while battling her haunted past. A tale of resilience, forgiveness, and strength set against a historical backdrop.
About the Book
Angelina’s Secret (Jeweled Dagger Series Book 1)
Angelina’s Secret follows Lady Angelina Stewart on a sea voyage that plunges her into a world of pirates and forbidden love. When she meets Captain Jude Deveraux, sparks fly, and a passionate relationship unfolds amidst adventure and family secrets.
About the Book
Isabella’s Heart (Jeweled Dagger Series Book 2)
Isabella’s Heart follows Isabella Deveraux as she journeys to London to rescue her twin brother from abduction. Along the way, she partners with Aiden Townsend, an Irish mercenary, and faces political turmoil, romance, and suspense in this action-packed sequel.
About the Book
Olivia’s Promise (Jeweled Dagger Series Book 3)
Olivia’s Promise centers on Olivia Townsend, who can communicate with spirits. When her friend’s life is at risk, Olivia embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind her friend’s death, exploring mystery, friendship, and the supernatural.
About the Book
A Compromising Position
 Compromising Position is a romantic suspense novel about Catherine Lawrence, a campaign manager who falls for her neighbor, Jake Ryan. Amid their chemistry and past struggles, they must navigate love, sacrifice, and unexpected twists in this small-town romance.
About the Book
The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn, The Dreaded Pirate Captain
In The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn, Timmy, Jimmy, and Jade embark on a treasure hunt and uncover the mysterious pirate captain’s secret. Filled with suspense, humor, and adventure, this children’s novel won 1st place at the 2024 BookFest Awards.
About the Book
El Secreto de Cogburn, El Tuerto El Temible Capitán Pirata (Spanish Edition)
The Spanish edition of The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn offers the same thrilling pirate adventure, now in bilingual form. Young readers can explore the mystery of Cogburn while enhancing their Spanish language skills.
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