Picture a Midwestern storyteller weaving mysteries and magic with a historical twist—meet Elizabeth C. Bunce! This Edgar Award-winning author has enchanted young adult and middle-grade readers with her spellbinding tales of plucky detectives and cunning thieves. From the foggy streets of Victorian England to fantastical realms, Bunce’s stories blend folklore, history, and a dash of the spooky, making her a standout voice in young adult literature.
Based near Kansas City, Bunce crafts narratives that feel like a cozy chat with a clever friend who knows all the best secrets. Her love for the past and her knack for creating strong female characters have earned her accolades and a devoted international following. Ready to dive into her world? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this literary gem.
The Making of Elizabeth C. Bunce
Born and raised in the Midwest, Elizabeth C. Bunce grew up with a passion for literature, folklore, and history. She studied English and anthropology at the University of Iowa, honing her understanding of culture and storytelling. A self-proclaimed 'Maker,' Bunce channels her creativity into needlework, historical costuming, and cosplay when she’s not writing—though she draws the line at cooking! Her writing career began with a lifelong love of stories, and by 2008, she debuted with a novel that would set the stage for her remarkable career.
Elizabeth C. Bunce’s Unforgettable Stories
Bunce’s debut, A Curse Dark as Gold, a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin, won the inaugural William C. Morris Award for a Young Adult Debut in 2009. This historical fantasy weaves romance, suspense, and a gritty Industrial Revolution backdrop, showcasing Bunce’s talent for reimagining folklore with depth and heart. The novel’s rich prose and compelling heroine, Charlotte, earned it a spot on Oprah’s Kids’ Reading List.
Her Thief Errant series, starting with StarCrossed, follows Digger, a quick-witted thief navigating a politically charged fantasy world. Critics have compared its intricate plotting to George R.R. Martin’s work, praising its blend of mystery and high-stakes adventure. Meanwhile, the Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series, beginning with Premeditated Myrtle, introduces a 12-year-old detective in 1890s England. This Edgar Award-winning series sparkles with wit, historical detail, and a cat named Peony, earning comparisons to Trixie Belden and Enola Holmes.
Bunce’s style is a literary tapestry, stitching together meticulous research, vibrant settings, and strong female leads. Her stories often explore themes of independence, justice, and the supernatural, appealing to both young readers and adults. Whether it’s a ghostly mystery or a fantastical heist, her work feels timeless yet fresh, like a classic tale told by firelight.
Why Elizabeth C. Bunce Matters
Elizabeth C. Bunce has carved a niche in young adult literature by blending genres with finesse. Her Myrtle Hardcastle series, translated into multiple languages, has redefined middle-grade mysteries with its smart, irrepressible heroine. Awards like the Edgar, multiple Agatha and Anthony nominations, and Kansas Notable Book honors underscore her impact. Bunce’s workshops and convention appearances inspire aspiring writers, while her stories empower young readers—especially girls—to embrace their curiosity and courage.
Her ability to weave history and fantasy into accessible, thrilling narratives makes her a bridge between past and present, inviting readers to explore worlds both real and imagined. In a crowded genre, Bunce’s voice shines as one that celebrates the nerdy, the bold, and the slightly morbid.
- Birthplace: Midwest, USA
- Key Works: A Curse Dark as Gold, StarCrossed, Premeditated Myrtle
- Awards: Edgar Award (2021), William C. Morris Award (2009), multiple Agatha and Anthony nominations
- Hobbies: Needlework, historical costuming, cosplay
Snag Premeditated Myrtle or A Curse Dark as Gold and dive into Elizabeth C. Bunce’s thrilling blend of mystery and magic!