Picture a Canadian prodigy weaving epic fantasy worlds and captivating audiences with piano melodies—meet Coco Ma! At just 15, she penned her debut novel, Shadow Frost, a thrilling young adult fantasy that launched her into the literary spotlight. A Juilliard pre-college graduate and Yale student, Coco balances her dual passions for writing and music with a flair that’s as enchanting as her stories.
Born in 2000, Coco Ma is a Canadian-Chinese author and pianist whose creativity knows no bounds. When she’s not crafting tales of magic and demons or performing on world-class stages, you might find her binge-watching Netflix or indulging in her self-professed love for cake—lots of cake!
The Making of Coco Ma
Coco’s journey began at five and a half, when she first tickled the ivories, setting the stage for a remarkable music career. By her teens, she was performing alongside luminaries like Lang Lang and earning a pre-college diploma from The Juilliard School. But music wasn’t her only muse. Growing up devouring fantasy novels by authors like Leigh Bardugo and V.E. Schwab, Coco found herself scribbling stories, hiding manuscripts in clever spots—like inside her piano—to sneak writing time during practice. At 15, she channeled this passion into Shadow Frost, a novel that caught the eye of a literary agent at a From the Top performance, launching her publishing journey.
Coco Ma’s Unforgettable Stories
Coco’s debut, Shadow Frost, introduces Princess Asterin Faelenhart, a fierce heroine wielding elemental magic to battle an immortal demon in the kingdom of Axaria. Published in 2019, the novel blends intricate world-building, witty banter, and a magical system tied to nine gods, earning praise for its fresh take on YA fantasy. Its sequel, God Storm (2020), ramps up the stakes with more action and deeper exploration of Axaria’s mythical realms. Coco’s Nightbreaker (2023) shifts gears to a gritty, monster-filled Manhattan, showcasing her versatility with a thrilling urban fantasy. Her latest, Deathlings (2023), weaves mystery and magic, cementing her knack for dynamic characters and twisty plots.
Her writing style is vibrant and accessible, with a focus on flawed, relatable protagonists like Asterin, who learn from their mistakes. Coco’s narratives pulse with adventure, romance, and humor, drawing readers into richly imagined worlds. Her ability to craft compelling stories at such a young age has critics calling her a prodigy, with reviewers like Rin Chupeco praising her “gorgeous tales” packed with “stunning magic.”
Why Coco Ma Matters
Coco Ma is a trailblazer in YA fantasy, proving that age is no barrier to creating impactful stories. Her multicultural background and dual talents infuse her work with authenticity and depth, resonating with readers who crave diverse, empowering narratives. By juggling a rigorous music career with writing, she inspires young creatives to pursue their passions fearlessly. Her growing bibliography and plans for new series signal a bright future for this rising star.
About Coco Ma
- Born: 2000, Canada
- Key Works: Shadow Frost, God Storm, Nightbreaker, Deathlings
- Education: Juilliard pre-college diploma, Yale University student
- Fun Fact: She once hid manuscripts inside her piano to write during practice!
Ready to dive into a world of magic, demons, and badass princesses? Snag Shadow Frost or Nightbreaker and get swept away by Coco Ma’s spellbinding YA fantasy!