Press Kit

JACKIE PHILLIPS

Author of Roma Arroyo

Jackie Phillips is a Northern California author, professional pet detective, and lifelong student of history and human nature. Her debut novel, Roma Arroyo, reflects her passion for compelling storytelling, richly layered characters, and the fascinating connections between people, places, and the events that shape their lives.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Phillips credits the city's vibrant culture, history, and diversity as major influences on her imagination and creative voice. She attended St. Rose Academy High School before continuing her education at San Francisco State University, City College of San Francisco, and Santa Rosa Junior College, where she pursued studies in writing, business, computer science, veterinary sciences, art, and design.

A devoted reader since childhood, Phillips draws inspiration from both fiction and nonfiction. Among her greatest literary influences is acclaimed historical novelist James Michener, whose ability to blend fictional narratives with real historical events helped shape her appreciation for stories that entertain while educating readers about the world around them.

Outside of her writing career, Phillips operates a professional pet detective business, working alongside a trained tracking dog to help reunite lost pets with their families. Her work has given her unique insight into the powerful bonds between humans and animals, as well as the resilience, hope, and determination that often emerge during life's most challenging moments.

An accomplished dog sports competitor, Phillips actively participates in canine events throughout the West Coast with her adopted mixed-breed dogs. She currently resides in California's East Bay, where she shares her home with a lively collection of animals and continues to pursue her passions for writing, animal advocacy, and lifelong learning.

Through her writing, Jackie Phillips seeks to create stories that engage readers, spark curiosity, and leave a lasting emotional impact.

Quick Facts

  • Author of Roma Arroyo
  • Born and raised in San Francisco, California
  • Professional pet detective specializing in lost pet recovery
  • Competitive dog sports participant throughout the Western United States
  • Lifelong reader of fiction and nonfiction
  • Influenced by the works of James Michener
  • Resides in California's East Bay with multiple rescue and companion animals

Topics Available for Interviews

  • The inspiration behind Roma Arroyo
  • Writing and research processes
  • Historical influences in fiction
  • The human-animal bond
  • Working as a professional pet detective
  • Lost pet recovery and tracking dogs
  • Balancing creative pursuits with entrepreneurship
  • Lifelong learning and creative inspiration
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Biography

Jackie Phillips is the author of Roma Arroyo.

Born and raised in San Francisco, California—a city she proudly considers the most beautiful in the world—Jackie developed a lifelong love of reading, learning, and storytelling. She attended St. Rose Academy High School before continuing her education at San Francisco State University, City College of San Francisco, and Santa Rosa Junior College, where she explored a diverse range of subjects including writing, business, computer science, veterinary studies, art, and design.

An avid reader of both fiction and nonfiction, Jackie has always been fascinated by stories that bring history to life. Among her favorite authors is James Michener, whose masterful blend of fictional characters and real historical settings inspired her appreciation for historical storytelling. She values the way literature can illuminate cultures, events, and perspectives often overlooked in traditional history education.

When she isn’t writing, Jackie operates a professional pet detective business, helping reunite lost pets with their families. Working alongside a specially trained tracking dog, she combines skill, dedication, and compassion to assist pet owners throughout the region.

Jackie is also an active competitor in a variety of canine sports, participating throughout the West Coast with her adopted mixed-breed dogs.

She currently resides in the East Bay area of Northern California, where she shares her home with a lively menagerie of animals.

To receive updates on Jackie’s latest books, projects, and appearances, sign up for her author newsletter.