Picture a storyteller who spun tales of angels, demons, and suspense from a tent in the woods—meet Elicia Hyder! This American indie author captivated readers with her bestselling Soul Summoner series, blending urban fantasy with heart-pounding mystery. From personal struggles to literary stardom, Hyder’s journey is as gripping as her novels.
The Making of Elicia Hyder
Born with a vivid imagination, Elicia Hyder grew up crafting wild worlds and quirky characters. As a teen, she devoured books and scribbled stories, forming a tight-knit writers’ group with friends. Life wasn’t always easy—Hyder once lived in a tent, facing hardships that fueled her resilience. Her early forays into contemporary romance and women’s fiction laid the groundwork, but it was a serendipitous idea that sparked her signature series.
A friend’s playful suggestion about a character who could summon people by name, paired with a real-life coincidence involving a long-lost friend, planted the seeds for the Soul Summoner. Hyder studied American Literature and Creative Writing at the American Military University, honing her craft. Her determination and indie spirit led her to self-publish, a bold move that launched her into the literary spotlight.
Elicia Hyder’s Unforgettable Stories
The Soul Summoner series, Hyder’s crown jewel, follows Sloan Jordan, a woman with the uncanny ability to see souls and summon people. The first book, The Soul Summoner, dives into a serial killer mystery laced with paranormal thrills, earning praise for its witty dialogue and unpredictable heroine. Its sequel, The Siren, deepens the stakes with romance and supernatural twists, while The Angel of Death explores darker, angelic battles.
Hyder’s style is a vibrant mix of suspense, humor, and heart. Her books weave urban fantasy with police procedurals, appealing to fans of authors like Darynda Jones. Beyond the Soul Summoner, Hyder’s Saphera Nyx series, starting with Detached, introduces a fierce female lead navigating a gritty paranormal world. With nearly a million copies sold, her works have been optioned for TV and film, a testament to their cinematic flair.
Hyder’s indie journey means she handles everything—writing, editing, and marketing—often working 12-hour days. Yet, she thrives on the freedom to create worlds where strong women, loyal friends, and moral dilemmas shine. Her stories resonate for their relatable characters and seamless blend of genres, making each book a page-turner.
Why Elicia Hyder Matters
Elicia Hyder’s rise from adversity to bestseller status inspires aspiring authors, proving that grit and imagination can triumph. Her Soul Summoner series has built a devoted fanbase, with readers praising its unique take on paranormal suspense. By tackling themes of good versus evil and personal discovery, Hyder’s work connects deeply with those craving escapist yet meaningful stories.
Living in Music City, Tennessee, with her husband, five teenagers, and two anxious dogs, Hyder balances family life with her creative passion. Her authenticity—sipping craft beer in a blow-up pool or joking about CAPTCHA puzzles—endears her to fans. As she continues to write, Hyder’s legacy grows, cementing her as a trailblazer in indie publishing.
- Born: American, exact date unavailable
- Key Works: The Soul Summoner, The Siren, The Angel of Death, Detached
- Fun Fact: Hyder believes heaven will have heavy metal music!
Snag The Soul Summoner and dive into Elicia Hyder’s thrilling urban fantasy world!