Picture a Pittsburgh-born storyteller who spun a thrilling tale of three girls battling for a fantastical throne—meet Ellen Goodlett! This young adult author has captured readers’ hearts with her debut novel, Rule, blending court intrigue, blackmail, and sisterly bonds into an unputdownable fantasy. With a life as vibrant as her stories, Goodlett’s journey from a shy bookworm to a globe-trotting novelist is as inspiring as her work.
The Making of Ellen Goodlett
Born in Pittsburgh, Ellen Goodlett grew up with a vivid imagination, crafting stories to escape her childhood shyness. A graduate of Bryn Mawr College, she initially hesitated to share her tales aloud, but writing became her perfect outlet. Before her breakout success, Goodlett honed her craft through short stories and even ghostwriting, all while dreaming of publishing her own novels. Her love for travel—living in a new country every month with a group of digital nomads—infused her work with rich, diverse settings that leap off the page.
Ellen Goodlett’s Unforgettable Stories
Goodlett’s debut, Rule (2018), introduces readers to Zofi, Akeylah, and Ren, three sisters vying for the throne of Kolonya while hiding deadly secrets. This young adult fantasy, often compared to Three Dark Crowns and Pretty Little Liars, dazzles with its fast-paced plot and intricate worldbuilding. Its sequel, Rise (2019), deepens the sisters’ saga, earning praise for its queer romance and political intrigue. Goodlett also co-authored Memory Lane, a sci-fi thriller podcast with Sara Shepard, exploring memory implantation and family bonds. Her style—marked by authentic teen voices, thrilling mysteries, and diverse representation—resonates with readers craving fresh, female-centric narratives.
Whether it’s the magical courts of Kolonya or the futuristic twists of Memory Lane, Goodlett’s stories tackle the messy, exhilarating challenges of adolescence. Her ability to weave forbidden romances and dark secrets into richly imagined worlds has made her a standout in YA fantasy, with fans eagerly awaiting her next project.
Why Ellen Goodlett Matters
Ellen Goodlett’s impact lies in her knack for crafting complex, relatable heroines who navigate power, betrayal, and identity. Her inclusive storytelling, including queer relationships and diverse casts, offers a refreshing take on YA fantasy, inspiring teens to embrace their own strength. By drawing on her global travels, Goodlett creates worlds that feel both fantastical and grounded, encouraging readers to explore beyond their horizons. Her rise from a shy writer to a USA Today bestselling author proves that persistence and passion can turn dreams into reality.
- Born: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: Rule, Rise, Memory Lane
- Notable: USA Today bestselling author, former ghostwriter
Ready to dive into a world of magic and mystery? Snag Rule and lose yourself in Ellen Goodlett’s thrilling YA fantasy!