Picture a Virginia-born storyteller who conjures ancient Rome with a magical twist—meet Cass Morris! A Shakespeare scholar, fantasy author, and educator, Cass weaves history and elemental magic into her captivating Aven Cycle series, starting with From Unseen Fire. Her unique blend of classical knowledge and modern storytelling has made her a rising star in historical fantasy, enchanting readers with tales of power, politics, and sisterhood.
With a knack for bringing the past to life, Cass’s work feels like a toga-clad Game of Thrones, sprinkled with spells and Roman intrigue. Whether she’s crafting novels or co-hosting the Hugo-nominated podcast Worldbuilding for Masochists, Cass’s passion for storytelling shines through, inviting readers to explore worlds where magic shapes empires.
The Making of Cass Morris
Born and raised in Virginia, Cass Morris grew up with one foot in the classical world, studying Latin from age twelve and falling in love with Shakespeare at eleven. Her academic journey took her to the College of William and Mary, where she earned a BA in English and History, followed by a Master of Letters in Shakespeare studies from Mary Baldwin University. Her time at the American Shakespeare Center, where she wrote educational guides, honed her ability to make complex histories accessible and engaging. Inspired by Star Wars and Neil Gaiman, Cass began writing as a child, eventually channeling her love for Rome and rhetoric into fantasy fiction.
Cass Morris’s Unforgettable Stories
Cass’s debut, From Unseen Fire (2018), kicks off the Aven Cycle, a Roman-inspired epic fantasy where elemental magic fuels political machinations. The story follows Latona, a mage of Spirit and Fire, as she navigates a republic reeling from a dictator’s death. Critics praise its rich worldbuilding, likening it to I, Claudius with a magical edge. Give Way to Night (2020) deepens the saga, exploring war and betrayal, while The Bloodstained Shade (2022) concludes the trilogy with gripping intensity.
Her short stories, like “The Price” in Witches & Warriors and “Corvus Monitus” in the CORVID-19 anthology, showcase her versatility, blending feminist themes with mythical settings. Cass’s style is vivid yet crisp, infused with Shakespearean rhetoric and a feminist lens, particularly in her portrayal of strong, complex women like Latona and her sisters. Her worldbuilding, detailed yet accessible, reflects her scholarly roots, making Aven feel as real as ancient Rome.
Why Cass Morris Matters
Cass Morris’s impact lies in her ability to bridge classical history and fantasy, offering readers a fresh take on a genre often dominated by medieval settings. Her focus on female agency and political intrigue resonates with modern audiences, earning praise from authors like Kate Elliott. Through her podcast, she inspires aspiring writers to craft immersive worlds, while her educational work at Mythik Camps brings mythology to life for young learners. Cass’s blend of scholarship and storytelling makes her a unique voice in fantasy literature.
- Birthplace: Virginia, USA
- Key Works: From Unseen Fire, Give Way to Night, The Bloodstained Shade
- Awards: Hugo Award Finalist (podcast, Worldbuilding for Masochists)
- Fun Fact: She’ll challenge you to Mario Kart and probably win!
Snag From Unseen Fire and dive into Cass Morris’s spellbinding world of Roman magic and fierce heroines!