Picture a California-born storyteller who weaves magic, music, and heartfelt emotion into unforgettable fantasy worlds—meet Adrienne Tooley! This author and singer/songwriter burst onto the literary scene in 2021 with her debut novel, Sweet & Bitter Magic, a sapphic YA fantasy that’s as enchanting as it is emotional. With a background in musical theater and a knack for lyrical prose, Tooley crafts stories that resonate with readers who crave whimsy, romance, and deep explorations of identity.
Now settled in Brooklyn with her wife, their puppy Biscuit, and a small arsenal of guitars, Tooley’s work reflects her vibrant life and creative passions. Her novels blend the fantastical with the personal, drawing readers into worlds where magic is as complex as the human heart. Let’s dive into the journey of this rising star in young adult fantasy!
The Making of Adrienne Tooley
Adrienne Tooley grew up in the sun-soaked desert suburbs of Southern California, where her imagination thrived amid the arid landscapes. Her love for storytelling took root early, with childhood journals brimming with short stories and musings. She pursued a B.A. in Musical Theatre at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, honing her knack for dramatic narratives and emotional depth. After graduating, she traded the stage for the page, moving to Brooklyn and diving into writing while also crafting indie-folk music. Her theater background infuses her work with vivid character motivations and lyrical cadence, setting her apart in the YA fantasy realm.
Adrienne Tooley’s Unforgettable Stories
Tooley’s debut, Sweet & Bitter Magic (2021), is a whimsical yet poignant tale of Tamsin, a witch cursed to never love, and Wren, a girl hiding her magical essence. Their slow-burn romance and quest to stop a memory-stealing plague captivated readers, earning praise for its fairytale-like world and emotional depth. Her follow-up, Sofi and the Bone Song (2022), a Kids’ Indie Next Pick, explores music and magic in a kingdom gripped by endless winter, following a young musician confronting betrayal and forbidden magic.
The Betrayal Prophecies series, starting with The Third Daughter (2023) and continuing with The Second Son (2024), showcases Tooley’s knack for intricate world-building and tender sapphic romances. Her prose, often described as sharp and atmospheric, blends fantastical elements with themes of grief, love, and power. Tooley’s stories stand out for their emotional resonance, queer representation, and exploration of how strength and vulnerability shape identity, making her a beloved voice in YA fantasy.
Why Adrienne Tooley Matters
Adrienne Tooley’s impact lies in her ability to craft stories that feel both timeless and fresh, blending fairytale whimsy with modern queer narratives. Her focus on sapphic relationships and complex emotional journeys resonates with readers seeking diverse, heartfelt fantasy. By tackling themes like grief and self-discovery, she offers a safe space for young readers to explore their own identities. Her work also elevates indie voices in YA, proving that nuanced storytelling can shine in a crowded genre.
- Key Works: Sweet & Bitter Magic (2021), Sofi and the Bone Song (2022), The Third Daughter (2023), The Second Son (2024)
- Fun Fact: Tooley has released four indie-folk EPs, showcasing her musical talents alongside her writing.
- Current Home: Brooklyn, NY, with her wife and puppy Biscuit
Ready to fall under Adrienne Tooley’s spell? Grab Sweet & Bitter Magic or Sofi and the Bone Song and dive into her lush, lyrical worlds of magic and romance!