Picture a young storyteller from Illinois weaving magical worlds that grip your heart—meet Emily Blackwood! At just 23, this bestselling young adult fantasy novelist burst onto the scene in 2020 with her debut, All the Crown’s Shadows. Known for her sassy heroines and heart-pounding romance, Blackwood’s tales have enchanted readers worldwide, all while she juggles a day job and a vibrant social media presence from her Chicago home.
From her roots in Edwardsville, Illinois, to her rise as a fantasy fiction star, Blackwood’s journey is as captivating as her stories. Her blend of action, magic, and emotional depth has made her a standout in the young adult genre, with fans eagerly awaiting each new release.
The Making of Emily Blackwood
Born and raised in Edwardsville, Illinois, Emily Blackwood grew up with a nose in books, devouring fiction from a young age. Her love for reading sparked a passion for writing, which she nurtured through childhood. After graduating college at 23, she balanced a career in IT with her dream of authorship. In 2020, she took a leap, self-publishing All the Crown’s Shadows, the first in her Wicked Flames Saga. The novel’s success marked her as a rising star, proving her knack for crafting immersive worlds.
Emily Blackwood’s Unforgettable Stories
Blackwood’s novels are a thrilling mix of young adult fantasy, dark romance, and magical adventure. Her Wicked Flames Saga, starting with All the Crown’s Shadows (2020), follows Ruby, a fierce heroine battling inner demons and external threats in a richly imagined world. The saga continues with All the Crown’s Embers (2021), where Ruby’s magic and loyalties are tested, and All the Crown’s Ashes (2022), a gripping tale of sacrifice and power.
Her Fae of Rewyth series, launched with House of Lies and Sorrow (2022), dives into a realm of fae intrigue, with a defiant heroine navigating love and betrayal. Blackwood’s style shines through her strong, relatable characters—often sassy women who overcome impossible odds—and her ability to weave romance with high-stakes action. Her upcoming Beg the Night (2025) in the Mystics of Ashora series promises more enchantment, cementing her prolific output.
Blackwood’s storytelling stands out for its emotional depth, exploring themes of self-discovery and resilience. Her worlds are dark yet hopeful, with heroes and heroines who face their fears, making her books resonate with teens and adults alike.
Why Emily Blackwood Matters
In just a few years, Emily Blackwood has carved a niche in young adult fantasy, inspiring readers with her empowering narratives. Her heroines, who tackle both magical and personal challenges, reflect the struggles and triumphs of her audience, particularly young women. By self-publishing and engaging fans on platforms like Instagram and TikTok (@authoremilyblackwood), she’s built a loyal community, proving that independent authors can thrive in a competitive industry.
Blackwood’s impact extends beyond her books. Her journey from a small-town dreamer to a bestselling author encourages aspiring writers to pursue their passions, showing that dedication and authenticity can lead to success. As she continues to write, her influence in the fantasy genre grows, promising more magical tales to come.
- Born: Edwardsville, Illinois, age 23
- Debut Novel: All the Crown’s Shadows (2020)
- Key Series: Wicked Flames Saga, Fae of Rewyth, Golden City
- Fun Fact: She loves The Vampire Diaries and her cat, Mister!
Ready for a magical adventure? Snag All the Crown’s Shadows or House of Lies and Sorrow and dive into Emily Blackwood’s spellbinding young adult fantasy worlds!