Picture a queer storyteller from the misty Pacific Northwest, spinning tales of unwritten books and hellish libraries—meet A.J. Hackwith! Known for her spellbinding Hell’s Library series and sci-fi romance under the pseudonym Ada Harper, Hackwith crafts worlds where characters leap off the page, literally. Her knack for blending fantasy, horror, and heartfelt storytelling has earned her a devoted following.
With a playful wit and a love for classic RPGs, Hackwith’s stories are as vibrant as her personality. Whether she’s exploring the afterlife or crafting steamy romances, her work invites readers into richly imagined realms. Ready to dive into her unique blend of speculative fiction? Let’s explore the magic of A.J. Hackwith!
The Making of A.J. Hackwith
Living in the woods just outside Portland, Oregon, with her husband, hound, and a few friendly ghosts, A.J. Hackwith (she/they) found her calling in speculative fiction. A graduate of the Viable Paradise writer’s workshop, she honed her craft among fellow dreamers, sharpening her ability to weave intricate narratives. Her early work appeared in Uncanny Magazine and various anthologies, showcasing her talent for evocative storytelling.
Hackwith’s love for fountain pens and Dungeons & Dragons hints at her creative spark. As a queer writer, she brings a fresh perspective to fantasy and romance, infusing her stories with diverse characters and emotional depth. Her journey from aspiring writer to acclaimed author began with a determination to tell stories that resonate, a mission she continues to fulfill.
A.J. Hackwith’s Unforgettable Stories
Hackwith’s Hell’s Library trilogy is her crown jewel, starting with The Library of the Unwritten (2019). In this fantasy gem, unfinished books reside in a neutral wing of Hell, and Head Librarian Claire must wrangle restless characters who escape their pages. With allies like Brevity, a former muse, and Leto, a nervous demon, Claire navigates cosmic stakes, chasing the Devil’s Bible to prevent war between Heaven and Hell.
The series continues with The Archive of the Forgotten (2020), where a strange ink threatens the Library, and The God of Lost Words (2021), which sees Claire and her found family rewriting the Library’s fate. Hackwith’s style is a tapestry of elaborate worldbuilding, poignant characters, and meta-storytelling, earning praise for its ode to books and found families. As Ada Harper, she pens sci-fi romances like A Conspiracy of Whispers and A Treason of Truths, blending action, intrigue, and queer love.
Her ability to craft relatable, complex protagonists—like Claire, a grumpy yet loyal librarian—sets her apart. Hackwith’s themes of identity, sacrifice, and the power of stories resonate deeply, making her work a haven for readers seeking both adventure and heart.
Why A.J. Hackwith Matters
A.J. Hackwith’s impact on speculative fiction lies in her ability to make the fantastical feel personal. Her Hell’s Library series has inspired readers to cherish stories, earning starred reviews from Library Journal and Publishers Weekly. By centering queer characters and exploring themes of belonging, she’s carved a vital space in fantasy and romance, genres often craving diverse voices.
Hackwith’s work also celebrates the act of creation, reminding us that stories, even unwritten ones, have power. Her growing influence, from anthologies to her dedicated fanbase, signals a bright future. As she continues to write, her enchanting narratives promise to captivate and inspire.
About A.J. Hackwith
- Key Works: Hell’s Library trilogy, A Conspiracy of Whispers (as Ada Harper)
- Genres: Fantasy, sci-fi, romance
- Notable: Graduate of Viable Paradise writer’s workshop
- Fun Fact: Loves classic RPGs and lives with her husband and hound in Oregon
Snag The Library of the Unwritten and dive into A.J. Hackwith’s magical, meta-fantasy world! Whether you’re a fantasy fanatic or a romance enthusiast, her stories will leave you spellbound.