Picture a Yorkshire storyteller who spun a queer romantic space opera that captivated readers worldwide—meet Everina Maxwell! This debut author skyrocketed from online serialization to a three-book deal, blending heart-pounding political intrigue with tender relationships in richly imagined sci-fi worlds. Maxwell’s knack for diverse characters and intimate storytelling has made her a rising star in speculative fiction.
Born in Sussex, UK, Maxwell now calls Yorkshire home, where she weaves tales around a day job and a penchant for killing houseplants. Her debut novel, Winter’s Orbit, originally a fan-favorite on Archive of Our Own (AO3), transformed into a Sunday Times bestseller, proving her stories resonate far beyond the digital realm.
The Making of Everina Maxwell
Growing up near a library stocked with sci-fi giants like Lois McMaster Bujold and Anne McCaffrey, Maxwell devoured speculative fiction from a young age. Terry Pratchett’s wit and Georgette Heyer’s Regency romances also shaped her storytelling. Her first dive into writing came with NaNoWriMo in 2004, sparking a lifelong passion for crafting intricate worlds. Balancing writing with a day job, Maxwell honed her craft through online communities, beta readers, and a love for character-driven narratives.
Everina Maxwell’s Unforgettable Stories
Maxwell’s debut, Winter’s Orbit (2021), is a queer space opera that marries Prince Kiem, a charming royal, with Count Jainan, a grieving diplomat, in a politically charged arranged marriage. As they unravel a murder mystery, their slow-burn romance blooms against a backdrop of intergalactic intrigue. Praised as Ancillary Justice meets Red, White & Royal Blue, it’s a masterclass in balancing romance and suspense.
Her follow-up, Ocean’s Echo (2022), dives deeper into the same universe, exploring a fake soulbond between a telepathic socialite and a psychic soldier. Maxwell’s queernorm worlds—where gender is marked by accessories, not stereotypes—shine, offering refreshing inclusivity. Her upcoming fantasy novel, described as a “sapphic winter soldier” tale, promises to expand her repertoire, slated for 2026.
Maxwell’s style is accessible yet sophisticated, weaving fanfic-inspired tropes like “only one bed” with nuanced worldbuilding. Her stories tackle duty, healing, and identity, wrapped in witty dialogue and emotional depth, making them catnip for readers craving both heart and adventure.
Why Everina Maxwell Matters
Maxwell’s impact lies in her ability to craft queer narratives that feel effortless and universal. By normalizing diverse identities in speculative fiction, she builds worlds where acceptance is as natural as starlight. Her journey from AO3 to traditional publishing inspires aspiring writers, showing that online roots can lead to global acclaim. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and TikTok adore her for blending political stakes with tender romance, cementing her as a voice for inclusivity in sci-fi.
- Born: Sussex, UK
- Key Works: Winter’s Orbit (2021), Ocean’s Echo (2022), upcoming fantasy (2026)
- Awards: 2022 Alex Award for Winter’s Orbit
- Fun Fact: Maxwell loves Let’s Plays of video games she claims she doesn’t have time to play!
Ready to blast off into Maxwell’s universe? Snag Winter’s Orbit and dive into her dazzling blend of queer romance and cosmic adventure!