Picture a storyteller who spins tales of time travel and romance from the cobblestone streets of Dresden to the lush forests of British Columbia—meet Elle Strauss! This bestselling American author, now writing as Lee Strauss, has enchanted readers with her young adult, science fiction, and fantasy novels. Known for her whimsical touch, Strauss crafts stories that whisk you away to other worlds, always with a dash of heart-fluttering romance.
Born in Aurora, Illinois, Strauss’s journey to literary stardom began with a dream—literally! A vivid vision of time travel sparked her iconic Clockwise series, turning her into a beloved name in young adult fiction. With homes in Germany and Canada, she draws inspiration from diverse cultures, blending historical charm with modern flair.
The Making of Elle Strauss
Raised in the heart of Illinois, Elle Strauss was always fascinated by the idea of stepping back in time. Her childhood curiosity about history and storytelling shaped her unique voice. After dreaming up a time-travel tale, she ditched the cliché time-machine trope and embraced a paranormal twist, setting the stage for her breakout success. Moving between Dresden, Germany, and British Columbia, Canada, Strauss found a rhythm that fueled her creativity, balancing cozy coffee shop writing sessions with family life.
Her career kicked off with young adult novels, but her versatility shone as she adopted the pen name Lee Strauss for historical fiction, cozy mysteries, and more. This ability to hop genres while keeping her whimsical style intact has made her a standout in the literary world.
Elle Strauss’s Unforgettable Stories
Strauss’s Clockwise series, starting with Clockwise (2011), follows Casey Donovan, a teen who uncontrollably zips back to the 19th century—talk about awkward time-travel dates! Spanning six books, the series blends humor, romance, and historical adventure, earning rave reviews for its fun, otherworldly vibe. Fans begged for more, and Strauss delivered, expanding Casey’s world with charm and wit.
Her Love, Tink series dives into fairy lore, offering a playful take on Tinkerbell’s adventures with a romantic twist. Under her pen name Lee Strauss, she penned the Ginger Gold Mystery series, a cozy historical mystery set in the 1920s, showcasing her knack for vivid settings and engaging plots. Strauss’s writing sparkles with whimsical elements—think fairies, Merfolk, and time slips—paired with relatable characters and heartwarming romance.
Whether she’s exploring dystopian futures in Perception or wartime coming-of-age in Playing with Matches, Strauss’s stories are accessible yet layered, appealing to teens and adults alike. Her ability to weave historical details with fantastical elements keeps readers hooked, making each book a delightful escape.
Why Elle Strauss Matters
Elle Strauss has carved a niche in young adult and historical fiction, inspiring readers to embrace the magic of storytelling. Her Clockwise series redefined time-travel narratives, blending paranormal quirks with relatable teen struggles, while her cozy mysteries as Lee Strauss offer nostalgic charm. Her global perspective, shaped by life in two continents, adds depth to her work, resonating with diverse audiences.
Strauss’s impact lies in her ability to make the fantastical feel real, encouraging fans to see history and romance through a whimsical lens. Her stories remind us that even in chaotic times, love and adventure can find a way. With a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, she continues to inspire aspiring writers to dream big—maybe even across centuries!
- Born: Aurora, Illinois, USA
- Key Works: Clockwise, Love, Tink, Ginger Gold Mystery series
- Pen Name: Lee Strauss for historical fiction and mysteries
- Fun Fact: Strauss loves chocolates and coffee, fueling her writing in cozy cafés!
Ready to tumble through time or solve a 1920s mystery? Snag Clockwise or a Ginger Gold novel and dive into Elle Strauss’s whimsical world!