Some stories are so inspiring, they don’t just entertain—they ignite something inside you. Zane’s journey is one of those stories. From anonymously posting short stories online to becoming a New York Times bestselling author, independent filmmaker and a powerhouse in Hollywood, Zane’s career proves that authenticity and determination can rewrite the rules.
When I chatted with my friend of more than a decade, Zane, I was struck by her unwavering commitment to staying true to herself. She’s not just an author or filmmaker; she’s a trailblazer who broke through barriers to build her empire on her own terms. Along the way, she’s faced challenges that would make most people throw in the towel, from publishers who doubted her voice to hackers who tried to tarnish her reputation. Yet, here she is—resilient, inspiring, and unshakable.
Zane’s story reminds us that greatness doesn’t come from fitting in. It comes from daring to stand out, from refusing to let others define who you are or what you’re capable of. Her journey from self-publishing to Hollywood highlights not only the power of independence but also the impact of believing in your vision even when no one else does.
Whether you’re a creator looking for your big break or someone chasing any dream, Zane’s words will resonate. Her triumphs, her challenges, and her unyielding drive will leave you rooting for her—and maybe even for yourself. Keep reading to discover why Zane’s unstoppable rise is a blueprint for anyone ready to take the leap.
For readers who may not know, who is Zane?
I’m Kristina LaFern Roberts, better known as Zane, a New York Times bestselling author of dozens of books. My career began in the late 1990s when I started anonymously writing short stories online. Over the years, I’ve sold millions of books and had the privilege of seeing my work adapted for the screen, including the feature film Addicted and television series Zane’s Sex Chronicles and Zane’s The Jump Off on Cinemax. I’ve also worn many hats in publishing, running five imprints at Simon & Schuster and publishing over 900 books by more than 120 authors.
You’re celebrated for your trailblazing approach to sex positivity. What inspired you to take that path, especially given your upbringing?
It’s funny because I grew up in a very religious household—my father, Dr. James Deotis Roberts, was a renowned theologian and civil rights leader. You’d think that would make it harder to take the path I did, but my parents were incredibly supportive. They raised me and my siblings to embrace differences, to respect all people, and to think critically. That foundation helped me find my voice and be unapologetically authentic in my writing. When I finally told my parents I was Zane, they were proud, not judgmental.
When you began writing, did you ever imagine you’d reach this level of success?
Not at all. When I wrote my first short story in 1997, I had no intention of publishing. I didn’t release my first book until 2000, and even then, it was because people were already spreading rumors that I had a book out. The success has been surprising and humbling. I never expected to walk into a bookstore and see my books stacked next to Stephen King or James Patterson. It’s been an incredible journey.
You’ve been a pioneer in self-publishing and independence. What drew you to that approach?
It was about creative control. When I first started, traditional publishers told me I needed to tone down my writing, that I was too risqué. I refused to compromise my voice, so I self-published. Eventually, those same publishers came back and offered me deals that allowed me to maintain creative freedom. Independence has always been about staying true to my vision.
You’ve shifted from traditional Hollywood projects to independent filmmaking. Why?
Independence allows me to explore different genres and stories without being pigeonholed. When people hear the name Zane, they often assume everything I do is erotica, but that’s just one part of who I am. Independent filmmaking gives me the freedom to tell a variety of stories without preconceived labels. Plus, it’s an opportunity to work with emerging talent and give others a platform.
What have been the perks and challenges of fame for you?
The biggest perk has been helping others achieve their dreams. I’ve mentored and supported many writers and filmmakers, giving them opportunities they might not have had otherwise. On the flip side, fame can come with misconceptions. People often assume fame equals happiness, but that’s not always true. Success doesn’t shield you from personal challenges or hardships.
You’ve faced a significant challenge recently with your Facebook page being hacked. Can you share what happened and how it’s affected you?
My official Facebook page, which had over 1.3 million followers, was hacked. The hackers have been posting clickbait content that’s completely out of character for me. It’s hurt my brand and left many of my fans confused. Despite multiple reports to Facebook, I’ve had no resolution. It’s frustrating because I’ve spent decades building my reputation, and now someone else is misrepresenting me. I hope Facebook takes this seriously and helps me regain control.
What’s your message to social media platforms like Facebook regarding these issues?
With the resources they have, companies like Facebook should do better. There needs to be a system where creators and public figures can easily report and resolve these kinds of issues. It’s unacceptable that someone can hijack a verified page and continue to post unchecked. This isn’t just about me—it’s about protecting the integrity of platforms for all users.
Given your journey, why is now a great time for creators to explore independence?
The world is more accessible than ever. When I started, there was no social media, no eBooks. Today, creators can reach global audiences through digital platforms, retain creative control, and maintain ownership of their work. Whether you’re an author or a filmmaker, the barriers to entry are lower than ever. Independence is empowering.
Zane’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of authenticity. As she continues to navigate new challenges and opportunities, her story inspires a new generation of creators to dream big and stay true to their vision.
