Picture a Utah storyteller who spins tales where history and magic dance together—meet E.B. Wheeler! This award-winning author of young adult, fantasy, and historical fiction crafts immersive worlds that pull readers into eras of sweeping societal change. With a historian’s eye and a novelist’s heart, Wheeler’s stories blend the real and the fantastical, earning her a devoted following and prestigious accolades.
From her debut novel to her latest dragon-filled adventures, Wheeler’s work is a testament to her love for the past and her knack for storytelling. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this multifaceted author whose pen brings history to life with a magical twist.
The Making of E.B. Wheeler
E.B. Wheeler grew up in California and Georgia, where her love for books took root. A voracious reader of mysteries and historical fiction, she was inspired by authors like Lloyd Alexander and Charlotte Brontë. She pursued a B.A. in history with an English minor at Brigham Young University, followed by graduate degrees in early modern history and landscape architecture at Utah State University. Her academic focus on British religion, popular belief, and historic landscapes shaped her unique storytelling perspective. Wheeler’s writing career began with her 2015 debut, The Haunting of Springett Hall, a young adult novel that won the League of Utah Writers’ Gold Quill award, marking her as a rising star.
E.B. Wheeler’s Unforgettable Stories
Wheeler’s novels are a vibrant blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and young adult adventure, often set in times of societal upheaval like the Victorian or Renaissance eras. Her debut, The Haunting of Springett Hall, is a ghostly tale of love and redemption, praised for its atmospheric prose. Born to Treason, a Whitney Award finalist, follows a Welsh Catholic girl navigating the English Reformation’s dangers, showcasing Wheeler’s knack for vivid historical detail.
In her fantasy series, starting with A Proper Dragon, Wheeler introduces Phoebe Hart, a dragon-linked heroine facing magical and social challenges in a Victorian-inspired London. This Whitney Award finalist weaves elemental magic, dragons, and romance with a low-spice charm that appeals to young adult readers. Cruel Magic, a Whitney Award winner, dives deeper into a gaslamp fantasy world of Faerie enchantments and secrets, cementing Wheeler’s reputation for crafting immersive, optimistic narratives.
Wheeler’s style is marked by strong character voices, witty dialogue, and a hopeful tone, even amid conflict. Her love for history shines through in meticulously researched settings, while her fantasy elements add a playful, magical layer. Beyond novels, she writes award-winning short stories, essays, and scripts, including the Segullah Award-winning “Imperfect Instruments,” a poignant reflection on faith and living with Brown-Sequard syndrome.
Why E.B. Wheeler Matters
E.B. Wheeler’s work resonates with readers who crave stories that blend historical depth with fantastical adventure. Her ability to craft relatable characters—often young women navigating complex worlds—has made her a standout in young adult and historical fantasy. Her awards, including the 2016 League of Utah Writers’ Writer of the Year, reflect her influence in the literary community. As a historian and teacher at Utah State University, Wheeler also inspires through her work in historic preservation and education, sharing her passion for the past.
Her stories offer more than escapism; they explore themes of resilience, identity, and hope, encouraging readers to find strength in turbulent times. Wheeler’s commitment to “fire and smoke but not steam” ensures her fantasy remains accessible and engaging for a wide audience, making her a beloved voice in clean historical fantasy.
- Born: Unknown (lives in Utah)
- Key Works: The Haunting of Springett Hall, Born to Treason, A Proper Dragon, Cruel Magic
- Awards: 2015 Gold Quill, 2016 Writer of the Year, Whitney Award winner
- Hobbies: Gardening, folk music, fiber arts, reading
Snag A Proper Dragon and dive into E.B. Wheeler’s enchanting blend of history and fantasy!