Picture a wandering storyteller who spun tales of dragons and daring heroines—meet Elizabeth Kerner! Born in 1958, this American fantasy author captured hearts with her bestselling 'Tale of Lanen Kaelar' trilogy, a vibrant blend of dragon lore and human drama. With a knack for crafting strong female characters, Kerner’s work invites readers into the magical world of Kolmar, where courage and curiosity reign supreme.
Her nomadic childhood, rich with myth and legend, fueled her passion for storytelling. From the shores of Scotland to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, Kerner’s life is as adventurous as her novels. Let’s dive into the journey of this fantasy trailblazer!
The Making of Elizabeth Kerner
Born in Florida to a Navy doctor, Elizabeth Kerner’s early years were a whirlwind of moves across the U.S., from Pennsylvania to Kodiak, Alaska. This rootless upbringing sparked a love for fairy tales, mythology, and especially dragons—particularly the shape-shifting Oriental ones. In 1976, she crossed the Atlantic to study at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, earning an MA in English Language and Literature in 1981. Her eclectic career—from goldsmith apprentice in Hawaii to copy-editor for an astronomy journal in Edinburgh—reflected her adventurous spirit, which later infused her writing with vivid detail and authenticity.
Elizabeth Kerner’s Unforgettable Stories
Kerner’s debut, Song in the Silence (1996), introduces Lanen Kaelar, a bold young woman who defies her sheltered life to seek the legendary dragons of Dragon Isle. This novel, a finalist for the IAFA William L. Crawford Fantasy Award, blends romance, adventure, and intricate world-building, earning praise for its 'excellent narrative technique' and 'wit.' Its sequel, The Lesser Kindred (2000), deepens Lanen’s saga as she navigates love and danger with Varien, the Dragon King in human form. The trilogy concludes with Redeeming the Lost (2004), a gripping tale of Lanen’s battle against a demon-lord to save both dragons and humans.
Kerner’s style stands out for its focus on feminine strength and complex characters. Tired of stereotypical fantasy heroines, she crafted Lanen as courageous, compassionate, and clever, evolving from naivety to wisdom. Her dragons, inspired by myth, are intelligent and magical, embodying the essence of fantasy. Kerner’s world of Kolmar, with its rich history and interplay of order versus chaos, offers a refreshing take on epic quests, avoiding the genre’s usual bravado.
Why Elizabeth Kerner Matters
Elizabeth Kerner’s work reshaped fantasy by centering strong, relatable female leads and nuanced dragon lore. Her trilogy, recognized by the American Library Association and VOYA for its appeal to young adults, inspired a dedicated fanbase eager for more Kolmar tales. Though her output slowed after 2004, her influence persists, encouraging authors to explore diverse voices and mythical creatures with depth. Kerner’s ability to weave personal identity and universal themes into her stories continues to resonate with readers seeking adventure and heart.
- Born: 1958, Florida, USA
- Key Works: Song in the Silence, The Lesser Kindred, Redeeming the Lost
- Notable Recognition: IAFA William L. Crawford Fantasy Award Finalist
- Current Home: Scotland, near Edinburgh
Ready to soar with dragons? Snag Song in the Silence and dive into Elizabeth Kerner’s enchanting fantasy world!