Picture a storyteller who wove tales from the banks of the Danube to the cedar woods of the Pacific Northwest—meet Alma Alexander, the Duchess of Fantasy! Born in a country that no longer exists, this Yugoslavian-born author has captivated readers worldwide with her imaginative novels, translated into over 14 languages. With a scientist’s mind and a poet’s heart, Alexander blends history, myth, and magic into stories that feel both timeless and groundbreaking.
From her enchanting Worldweavers series to the scientifically rich Were Chronicles, Alexander’s work invites readers into worlds where the impossible feels real. Her multicultural upbringing across Africa and beyond infuses her narratives with vibrant, diverse perspectives, making her a unique voice in speculative fiction. Ready to dive into her magical realms?
The Making of Alma Alexander
Born Alma A. Hromic on July 5, 1963, in Novi Sad, Yugoslavia, Alexander’s early life was a tapestry of cultures. Her father’s work with international aid agencies took the family across Zambia, Eswatini, and South Africa, with stints in the UK and New Zealand. Educated in a Welsh castle and later earning an MSc in Microbiology from the University of Cape Town, she initially pursued science. But storytelling called, and by the 1990s, she was writing, editing, and critiquing, eventually embracing her pen name, Alma Alexander, to craft fantasy worlds.
Alma Alexander’s Unforgettable Stories
Alexander’s novels are a masterclass in worldbuilding, blending historical depth with fantastical flair. Her breakout, The Secrets of Jin-Shei (2004), is a historical fantasy set in a richly imagined China-inspired world, exploring sisterhood and sacrifice. Its sequel, Embers of Heaven, deepens this alternate history, earning praise for its lyrical prose. Both have been translated into 14 languages, a testament to their universal appeal.
For younger readers, the Worldweavers series (2008–2015) follows Thea Winthrop, a magically challenged teen in a world where computers and spells collide. VOYA Magazine called it a cure for “Harry Potter withdrawal.” Meanwhile, The Were Chronicles (2015–2017) reimagines shapeshifters with scientific rigor, drawing on Alexander’s biology background. Her standalone Midnight at Spanish Gardens weaves haunting contemporary fantasy, while AbductiCon offers humorous sci-fi about a convention whisked into space.
Alexander’s style is immersive, with vivid settings and complex characters. Her love for mythology and fairy tales shines through, creating worlds that are strange yet believable, where every choice has a cost. Whether crafting epic sagas or short stories like the BBC award-winning “The Painting,” she balances wonder with emotional depth.
Why Alma Alexander Matters
Alma Alexander’s impact lies in her ability to bridge cultures and genres, making fantasy accessible and profound. Her diverse perspective challenges Eurocentric norms in speculative fiction, offering readers fresh lenses on history and identity. Her works inspire fans to explore their own creativity, while her scientific grounding adds credibility to fantastical premises. With awards like the BBC Short Story Contest and nominations for the Washington State Book Award, Alexander’s legacy is one of innovation and inspiration.
Her archive at Northern Illinois University preserves her contributions, ensuring future generations can study her craft. As a woman in fantasy, she’s a role model, proving that stories can transcend borders and backgrounds.
- Born: July 5, 1963, in Novi Sad, Yugoslavia
- Key Works: The Secrets of Jin-Shei, Worldweavers, The Were Chronicles
- Awards: 2000 BBC Short Story Contest winner for “The Painting”
- Fun Fact: She lives with two cats and loves knitting scarves to match her books!
About Alma Alexander
Snag The Secrets of Jin-Shei or Worldweavers and dive into Alma Alexander’s spellbinding fantasy today!