Picture a queer fantasy storyteller who spins tales of bards, pirates, and Ottoman-inspired empires—meet Alexandra Rowland! Raised on a sailboat in the Bahamas, Rowland’s vibrant narratives, like A Conspiracy of Truths and A Taste of Gold and Iron, weave mythology, folklore, and hopepunk vibes into unforgettable speculative fiction. Their unique voice, shaped by a life of adventure and a degree from Truman State University, has made them a rising star in fantasy literature.
But what makes Rowland’s work so special? It’s their knack for blending sharp wit, queer romance, and the power of stories to challenge oppressive systems. Let’s dive into their journey, from Caribbean waves to western Massachusetts, and explore why their books are a must-read for fantasy fans.
The Making of Alexandra Rowland
Born in the Bahamas, Alexandra Rowland grew up sailing the Caribbean, a backdrop that sparked their love for storytelling. Tired of tropical life, they ventured to Truman State University in Missouri, studying world literature, mythology, and folklore. These academic roots deeply influence their work, infusing it with rich, mythical undertones. After college, Rowland settled in western Massachusetts, juggling roles as a bespoke seamstress, escape room game monitor, and writer—all under the watchful eye of their feline quality control manager.
Rowland’s writing career kicked off with a self-published novel at 22, followed by their traditional publishing debut, A Conspiracy of Truths, in 2018. Their passion for speculative fiction, inherited from geeky parents, and their coining of the term “hopepunk”—a genre celebrating resilience and kindness—set the stage for a career that’s as eclectic as their upbringing.
Alexandra Rowland’s Unforgettable Stories
Rowland’s bibliography is a treasure trove of fantasy, with all their works set in the same expansive Chantiverse. A Conspiracy of Truths (2018) introduces Chant, a nameless bard whose storytelling unravels a corrupt government from a jail cell. Its sequel, A Choir of Lies (2019), explores the power of narratives to save or destroy lives. Both novels showcase Rowland’s love for bards and the transformative nature of stories.
A Taste of Gold and Iron (2022) is a queer fantasy romance set in an Ottoman-inspired world, following shy prince Kadou and his bodyguard Evemer as they uncover a counterfeiting conspiracy. Praised for its lush prose and slow-burn romance, it’s a fan favorite. Running Close to the Wind (2024), a pirate comedy blending Our Flag Means Death and Six of Crows, delivers chaotic fun with themes of community and resilience. Rowland’s style—witty, heartfelt, and layered with folklore—makes each book a masterclass in world-building.
Their nonfiction work, Finding Faeries (2020), an urban fantasy field guide, examines mythical creatures adapting to modern challenges like climate change. Rowland’s ability to merge scholarship with storytelling shines here, appealing to both fantasy nerds and environmentalists.
Why Alexandra Rowland Matters
Alexandra Rowland’s impact on fantasy literature lies in their celebration of queer identities, community, and the power of stories to resist oppression. As a four-time Hugo Award-nominated podcaster for Be the Serpent, they champion fanfiction’s role in literary conversations, bridging mainstream and fandom cultures. Their hopepunk philosophy inspires readers to find light in dark times, making their work a beacon for those craving inclusive, uplifting fantasy.
Rowland’s influence extends beyond books. Their vibrant online presence, from Twitter to Patreon, fosters a community of readers who connect over shared loves of mythology and mischief. For fans of authors like Neil Gaiman or Tasha Suri, Rowland’s blend of humor, heart, and rebellion is a refreshing addition to the genre.
- Key Works: A Conspiracy of Truths, A Taste of Gold and Iron, Running Close to the Wind, Finding Faeries
- Notable Achievement: Four-time Hugo Award nominee for Be the Serpent podcast
- Fun Fact: Rowland coined the term “hopepunk,” a genre celebrating resilience and kindness
Ready to sail into a world of bards, pirates, and queer romance? Grab A Taste of Gold and Iron and dive into Alexandra Rowland’s enchanting Chantiverse!