Picture a Sacramento-born storyteller who breathes life into history’s forgotten heroines—meet Aimie K. Runyan! With a knack for crafting historical fiction that blends meticulous research with heartfelt narratives, Runyan has carved a niche celebrating the resilience of women. Her novels, like Across the Winding River and Daughters of the Night Sky, transport readers to pivotal moments in history, making the past feel vividly alive.
As a celebrated author, educator, and speaker, Runyan’s passion for untold stories shines through, earning her accolades like a Historical Novel Society Editors’ Choice and multiple Colorado Book Award nominations. Ready to dive into her world of courage and sacrifice? Let’s explore her journey!
The Making of Aimie K. Runyan
Born in Sacramento, USA, Aimie K. Runyan’s love for storytelling sparked early, fueled by a fascination with history and literature. Her academic journey led her to become an avid student of French and Francophone Studies, even securing a grant from the Quebec government to research the women who shaped French Canada. This deep dive into history laid the foundation for her debut novel, Promised to the Crown, which marked her entry into historical fiction. Before writing full-time, Runyan taught French to high schoolers, honing her ability to connect and inspire—a skill she now brings to the writing community.
Aimie K. Runyan’s Unforgettable Stories
Runyan’s novels are a love letter to history’s unsung heroines, blending rich historical detail with compelling characters. Her breakout work, Daughters of the Night Sky, follows Katya Ivanova, a Soviet pilot facing discrimination and danger during World War II. Inspired by the real-life Night Witches, the novel showcases Runyan’s ability to weave fact and fiction seamlessly.
Across the Winding River is another gem, exploring love and sacrifice through a dual timeline of World War II and the present. Readers are drawn to its emotional depth and Runyan’s knack for making history personal. Her 2023 release, A Bakery in Paris, transports us to post-World War II Montmartre, where a bakery becomes a haven for two fierce women. Runyan’s 2024 novel, Mademoiselle Eiffel, celebrates Claire Eiffel’s role in her father’s legacy, proving her versatility across eras. Her style—vivid, empathetic, and meticulously researched—makes every story a journey.
Why Aimie K. Runyan Matters
Aimie K. Runyan’s impact lies in her dedication to amplifying women’s voices often overlooked by history. Her novels don’t just entertain; they educate, sparking conversations about resilience and sacrifice. As an adjunct professor at Drexel University’s MFA program and a member of groups like Tall Poppy Writers, she mentors aspiring authors, fostering a new generation of storytellers. Her awards, including five Colorado Book Award nominations, reflect her influence in historical fiction, while her engaging talks inspire readers and writers alike.
- Born: Sacramento, USA
- Key Works: Daughters of the Night Sky, Across the Winding River, A Bakery in Paris, Mademoiselle Eiffel
- Awards: Historical Novel Society Editors’ Choice, five-time Colorado Book Award finalist, Rocky Mountain Fiction Writer of the Year nominee
Snag Daughters of the Night Sky and dive into Aimie K. Runyan’s captivating historical fiction today!