JS Kennedy is the pen name of Canadian author Jacqueline Kennedy, a storyteller with a vivid imagination and a determination to write the kinds of characters she always wanted to read. Her journey began in middle school, co-writing with friends for fun, never imagining it could one day lead to publishing. What started as a hobby slowly grew into a passion—and, in 2021, she took the leap to share her stories with the world.

Inspired by authors like Ilona Andrews, Patricia Briggs, and K.M. Shea, Kennedy was drawn to strong, capable heroines who remained true to themselves. Too often, she found that these characters lost their independence the moment romance appeared—something she calls the “puddles of goo” effect. Determined to break that pattern, she set out to create protagonists whose strength, self-respect, and resolve endure through every challenge.

Her best-known work, the Mackenzie Green series, reflects this vision: richly imagined worlds, high stakes, and heroines who face danger, loss, and love without compromising who they are.

Outside of writing, Kennedy works as a Rescue Specialist with the Canadian Coast Guard—a demanding role that has shaped her appreciation for courage and resilience. She balances the intensity of her day job with nights spent weaving adventures, building complex worlds, and connecting with readers who share her love of strong characters and immersive storytelling.

Kennedy makes her home in New Brunswick, Canada, alongside her elderly cat and a stunning view that fuels her creativity. She’s the first to admit that grammar and spelling aren’t her strong suits—but believes that with dedication and resourcefulness, anyone can tell an engaging story.

Her guiding principle, learned from her karate sensei, is one she carries into both her career and her writing: Never give up.