Picture a storyteller who spun tales of political intrigue and passionate romance from a life shaped by NASA’s Apollo missions and the misty Pacific Northwest—meet Amy Raby! A fantasy romance author with a knack for crafting vivid worlds, Raby’s debut novel, Assassin’s Gambit, launched her into the literary spotlight, earning accolades and a devoted readership.
Born to parents who met as computer programmers on NASA’s Apollo missions, Raby’s life was destined for adventure. Her unique blend of tech savvy and storytelling prowess has made her a standout voice in fantasy romance, weaving tales that captivate and thrill.
The Making of Amy Raby
Amy Raby’s journey began in Austin, Texas, where she chased lizards and learned to code on a TI99/4A computer. Inspired by her parents’ NASA legacy, she pursued a Bachelor’s in Computer Science at the University of Washington. After an internship at Microsoft, she settled in Seattle, where her love for writing blossomed. Initially a hobbyist penning stories and essays, Raby discovered romance novels and found her calling, merging fantasy’s magic with heartfelt love stories.
Amy Raby’s Unforgettable Stories
Raby’s Hearts and Thrones series, set in a late 1700s-inspired world of carriages and early gunpowder, is her crowning achievement. Assassin’s Gambit (2013) introduces Vitala Salonius, a cunning assassin whose mission to kill Emperor Lucien unravels into a steamy romance amid political chaos. The novel, a 2011 Golden Heart finalist, showcases Raby’s skill at blending high-stakes drama with emotional depth.
Spy’s Honor (2013), a 2013 PRISM winner, follows Princess Rhianne, a mind mage, and Janto, a spy, in a tale of forbidden love and espionage. The Fire Seer (2014), from her Coalition of Mages series, dives into a Bronze Age-inspired world where Taya, a fire seer, solves mysteries with her lover Mandir. Raby’s style—rich world-building, strong heroines, and intricate plots—draws readers into vibrant, emotionally charged narratives.
Her novella Guardian’s Secret (2015) breaks ground with a gay romance featuring Drusus, a retired imperial bodyguard, reflecting Raby’s commitment to diverse storytelling. Each work balances romance and action, with settings inspired by her Pacific Northwest surroundings, from stormy lakes to rugged landscapes.
Why Amy Raby Matters
Amy Raby’s impact lies in her ability to craft fantasy worlds that feel both epic and intimate. Her novels, lauded for their vivid characters and cultural depth, have earned her a USA Today Bestselling Author title and awards like the 2012 Daphne du Maurier for The Fire Seer. By blending romance with political intrigue, she appeals to readers seeking both heart-pounding action and emotional resonance.
Raby’s Pacific Northwest home, where she rides dressage horses and tends to her menagerie of Golden Retrievers, snakes, and an Andalusian horse, infuses her work with a grounded, adventurous spirit. Her legacy is one of inclusivity and imagination, inviting readers to explore diverse love stories in fantastical realms.
- Key Works: Assassin’s Gambit, Spy’s Honor, The Fire Seer, Guardian’s Secret
- Awards: 2011 Golden Heart finalist, 2012 Daphne du Maurier winner, 2013 PRISM winner
- Hobbies: Dressage horse riding, sailing, animal care
Snag Assassin’s Gambit and dive into Amy Raby’s thrilling fantasy romance today!