Picture a Russian-born storyteller who weaves epic fantasy with a scientist’s precision—meet Anna Kashina! This Philadelphia-based author and biomedical researcher has enchanted readers with her thrilling Majat Code series, blending swordplay, romance, and intricate world-building. From her early days in Moscow to her dual career as a University of Pennsylvania professor, Kashina’s journey is a testament to chasing passions in both art and science.
With over a dozen novels published across the US, Russia, and beyond, Kashina’s work captivates with its multicultural flair and dynamic characters. Her unique ability to fuse her scientific expertise with fantastical storytelling makes her a standout in the fantasy genre. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this remarkable author.
The Making of Anna Kashina
Born in Moscow, Russia, Anna Kashina grew up with a pen in one hand and a microscope in the other. She wrote her first novel as a teenager, a feat that foreshadowed her lifelong love for storytelling. After earning a PhD in cell biology from the Russian Academy of Sciences, she moved to the United States in 1994, settling in Philadelphia. There, she joined the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine as a faculty member, researching protein modifications while nurturing her creative side. Her diverse interests—competitive ballroom dancing, martial arts, and folklore—shaped her vibrant, action-packed narratives.
Anna Kashina’s Unforgettable Stories
Kashina’s bibliography is a treasure trove of fantasy, with her Majat Code series standing as a crown jewel. The series kicks off with Blades of the Old Empire (2014), where Prince Kyth’s magical abilities draw the attention of the sinister Kaddim Brotherhood. His bodyguard, the Diamond-ranked assassin Kara, steals the show with her lethal skills and complex loyalties. The sequel, The Guild of Assassins (2014), a double Prism Award winner, dives deeper into the Majat Guild’s intrigues, blending romance and high-stakes action. Assassin Queen (2016) wraps up the trilogy with a thrilling showdown.
Beyond the Majat Code, Kashina’s The Princess of Dhagabad (2000), part of the Spirits of the Ancient Sands trilogy, explores a romantic tale of an Arabian princess and her djinn companion. Her novel Shadowblade (2019) follows a young woman’s rise to elite blademaster, infused with Kashina’s scientific insights into warrior skills. Her writing style, rich with multicultural influences and meticulous research, creates vivid worlds where Eastern and Western elements collide seamlessly.
Kashina’s ability to craft fast-paced plots while exploring human emotions sets her apart. Her novels often feature strong, skilled protagonists navigating political intrigue and personal dilemmas, reflecting her fascination with resilience and transformation. Whether it’s the ninja-inspired Majat warriors or the mystical Russian folklore in Mistress of the Solstice (2013), her stories pulse with authenticity and heart.
Why Anna Kashina Matters
Anna Kashina’s impact lies in her ability to bridge worlds—science and fantasy, East and West, intellect and emotion. Her Majat Code series has earned critical acclaim, including two Prism Awards and a ForeWord Book of the Year nomination, resonating with readers who crave adventure with depth. By drawing on her Russian heritage and global travels, she infuses fantasy with diverse perspectives, enriching the genre’s tapestry. As a scientist-author, she inspires aspiring writers to embrace their multifaceted identities, proving that creativity thrives alongside discipline.
Her work also highlights the power of perseverance. Balancing a demanding research career with writing, Kashina shows that passion projects can flourish with dedication. Her stories, filled with empowered characters and intricate plots, invite readers to explore their own strength and imagination.
- Birthplace: Moscow, Russia
- Key Works: Majat Code series, The Princess of Dhagabad, Shadowblade
- Awards: Two Prism Awards (2015), ForeWord Book of the Year nominee
- Hobbies: Competitive ballroom dancing, martial arts, folklore studies
Ready to lose yourself in a world of assassins, magic, and romance? Snag Blades of the Old Empire and dive into Anna Kashina’s thrilling fantasy universe!