Picture a storyteller who weaves magic, romance, and raw emotion into unforgettable young adult tales—meet Brigid Kemmerer! This New York Times bestselling author has captured hearts with her spellbinding Cursebreakers series and poignant contemporary novels, blending fantasy and real-world struggles with a knack for compelling characters. From her Baltimore home, Kemmerer crafts stories that resonate with teens and adults alike, proving she’s a literary force to be reckoned with.
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Kemmerer’s journey to literary stardom was anything but ordinary. Her tales of cursed princes and resilient heroines have made her a beloved name in young adult literature, but it’s her ability to balance family life, writing, and a passion for weightlifting that makes her truly inspiring.
The Making of Brigid Kemmerer
Brigid Kemmerer was born on January 11, 1978, in Omaha, Nebraska, but her childhood was a cross-country adventure, with stops in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Cleveland, Ohio, before settling near Annapolis, Maryland. Raised Catholic, she later described herself as spiritual rather than religious, a perspective that subtly shapes her emotionally rich narratives. Before becoming a full-time writer, Kemmerer worked in finance, but her love for storytelling—sparked by childhood favorites like Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles and Christopher Pike’s thrillers—drove her to pursue writing. Her persistence paid off after years of rejections, with her first book, Storm, published in 2011 after landing an agent in 2009.
Brigid Kemmerer’s Unforgettable Stories
Kemmerer’s bibliography is a treasure trove of young adult fantasy and contemporary novels, each marked by emotional depth and dynamic characters. Her Cursebreakers series, starting with A Curse So Dark and Lonely (2019), reimagines Beauty and the Beast with a gritty, modern twist. The story follows Harper, a teen with cerebral palsy, and Prince Rhen, a cursed royal, in a lush fantasy world. Its sequels, A Heart So Fierce and Broken and A Vow So Bold and Deadly, deepen the saga with themes of loyalty and sacrifice.
Beyond fantasy, Kemmerer shines in contemporary fiction. Letters to the Lost (2017) explores grief and connection through anonymous letters, showcasing her ability to tackle heavy emotions with grace. Defy the Night (2021) blends fantasy and social commentary, following outlaws in a kingdom plagued by a deadly fever. Her Elemental series, starting with Storm, weaves paranormal romance with family dynamics, cementing her versatility. Kemmerer’s style—punchy, heartfelt, and character-driven—makes every page a journey.
Why Brigid Kemmerer Matters
Brigid Kemmerer’s impact on young adult literature is undeniable. Her stories resonate with teens by portraying raw, authentic emotions and complex characters who face real-world challenges, from disability to loss. The Cursebreakers series, a New York Times bestseller, has inspired countless readers with its feminist take on classic fairy tales, while her contemporary works offer solace to those navigating personal struggles. Kemmerer’s ability to connect with readers globally, coupled with her relatable persona as a mom and weightlifter, makes her a role model for aspiring writers.
Her journey from finance to bestselling author, marked by perseverance through rejections, inspires a wide audience. By tackling themes of family, resilience, and love across genres, Kemmerer has carved a unique space in YA literature, influencing both readers and the genre’s evolution.
- Born: January 11, 1978, Omaha, Nebraska
- Key Works: Cursebreakers series, Letters to the Lost, Defy the Night, Elemental series
- Fun Fact: She’s an avid weightlifter, often found with a barbell when not writing!
Snag A Curse So Dark and Lonely and dive into Brigid Kemmerer’s enchanting world of fantasy and heart! Whether you’re a YA fan or just love a good story, her books are your next obsession.