Picture a California dreamer weaving tales of dark fairy magic in the misty Scottish Highlands—meet Elizabeth May! This Sunday Times bestselling author has enchanted readers worldwide with her thrilling young adult fantasy series, The Falconer, a dazzling blend of Scottish folklore, steampunk flair, and fierce heroines. From her roots in the Golden State to her adopted home in rural Scotland, May’s journey is as captivating as the worlds she creates.
The Making of Elizabeth May
Born on May 9, 1987, in California, Elizabeth May grew up devouring fantasy novels, with Garth Nix’s Sabriel leaving a lasting mark. Her love for storytelling took her across the globe, from New Zealand’s rugged landscapes to Australia’s coral reefs. After earning a BA in Anthropology/Sociology from Marlboro College, she landed in Scotland, where she fell in love with its winding Edinburgh alleyways and fairy legends. This inspired her to pursue a Ph.D. in Social Anthropology at the University of St Andrews, blending her academic curiosity with her creative spark. In 2010, battling seasonal depression, she penned the first draft of The Falconer, launching her writing career.
Elizabeth May’s Unforgettable Stories
May’s debut, The Falconer (2013), introduces Aileana Kameron, a debutante in 1844 Edinburgh who secretly hunts murderous faeries to avenge her mother’s death. This electrifying young adult fantasy weaves Scottish mythology with steampunk inventions, earning praise for its kick-ass heroine and slow-burn romance. The trilogy continues with The Vanishing Throne (2015), where Aileana navigates a ravaged fae world, and The Fallen Kingdom (2017), a thrilling finale packed with ancient magic and sacrifice. May also co-wrote the Seven Devils duology with Laura Lam, a sci-fi epic dubbed 'Mad Max: Fury Road in space,' showcasing her versatility. Under the pen name Katrina Kendrick, she crafts historical romances, proving her range across genres.
Her writing stands out for its vivid settings and strong female protagonists. Drawing on Scottish Gaelic folklore, May paints faeries as both monstrous and alluring, creating layered, immersive worlds. Her blend of historical grit, fantasy, and emotional depth resonates with readers, making her a fresh voice in young adult literature.
Why Elizabeth May Matters
Elizabeth May’s work has reached readers in over ten countries, with The Falconer earning accolades like an Indie Next Pick and Amazon Book of the Month. Her ability to merge Scottish folklore with modern fantasy has revitalized interest in Gaelic mythology, inspiring young readers to explore cultural tales. By crafting heroines like Aileana—smart, brave, and defiantly independent—May empowers her audience to embrace their strength. Her 2025 re-release of The Falconer trilogy, reimagined for adult romantasy fans, shows her knack for evolving with her readership.
About Elizabeth May
- Born: May 9, 1987, in California
- Key Works: The Falconer trilogy, Seven Devils duology, To Cage a God
- Fun Fact: Lives on an 18th-century Scottish farm with three cats and honeybees in the walls
- Awards: Sunday Times bestselling author
Ready to dive into a world of fae battles and steampunk thrills? Grab The Falconer and let Elizabeth May’s magic sweep you away!