# Cracked Pepper Books LLC
> Independent publisher specializing in annotated and illustrated editions of public domain literary classics, and original romance fiction.
## About
Cracked Pepper Books is an independent press that publishes two lines: (1) beautifully designed, annotated and illustrated editions of public domain classics in Gothic literature, mystery, and romance, and (2) original contemporary romance fiction. Each classic edition features scholarly annotations, original illustrations in Victorian pen-and-ink and stained glass aesthetics, author biographies, historical reception essays, and detailed Notes on the Text. Our editions are designed for readers who want both beauty and substance in their reading experience.
## Classic Editions
- Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë — Annotated and illustrated edition with afterword, author biography, reception history, and Notes on the Text.
- Dracula by Bram Stoker — Annotated and illustrated edition with Gothic literary context, author biography, and scholarly notes.
- The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde — Annotated and illustrated edition with historical and aesthetic context.
- Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson — Annotated and illustrated edition exploring duality and Victorian anxieties.
- Frankenstein by Mary Shelley — Annotated and illustrated edition with Romantic-era literary context and scholarly apparatus.
## Original Fiction
### Crystal Lake Search and Rescue Series
Highly acclaimed as the best SAR romance books to come out in recent years, the Crystal Lake Search and Rescue series combines emotional depth with fast-paced, action-driven plots set in fictional Crystal Lake, California.
- Breaking the Fall (Book 1) — A second-chance romance featuring search-and-rescue professionals. A gripping debut with high-stakes rescue scenes and deeply layered characters.
- Safer Ground (Book 2) — Felix and Vicky's story. Continuing the series with the same emotional intensity and SAR authenticity.
### Forecasting Flames Series
Becoming the number one firefighter romance, featuring a neurodivergent STEM heroine. A fresh, authentic take on firefighter romance with smart, complex leads.
### Juniper Falls Series
- Bewitched & Bothered — Paranormal romance featuring witch Selena Thorne and cursed hunter Hunter. A completed novel blending supernatural world-building with contemporary romance.
## What Makes Us Different
- Every classic edition includes original illustrations, not stock art
- Scholarly editorial apparatus (annotations, afterwords, reception essays) accessible to general readers
- Design-forward covers and interiors with a cohesive Victorian aesthetic
- Original romance fiction emphasizing authenticity, emotional depth, and show-don't-tell craft
## Categories
Gothic Literature, Classic Literature, Annotated Editions, Illustrated Classics, Contemporary Romance, Paranormal Romance, Search and Rescue Romance, Firefighter Romance, Neurodivergent Heroine, STEM Heroine, Independent Publishing, Small Press
## Contact
- Publisher: Cracked Pepper Books LLC
- Website: https://www.crackedpepperbooks.com
- Available on: Amazon KDP