Picture a storyteller who spun steampunk adventures and fantasy epics from a small Oregon town—meet H.L. Burke! Born in north central Oregon, this award-winning author has enchanted readers with her vivid worlds, heartfelt characters, and a knack for blending romance with thrilling plots. Known for the 2016 Realm Award-winning Nyssa Glass series, Burke’s stories resonate with fans of speculative fiction who crave adventure and heart.
With a lifelong passion for geek culture—think Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Star Trek—Burke’s writing reflects her love for epic heroes and intricate narratives. Married to her high school sweetheart, a retired US Marine, she’s a devoted mom of two daughters and a pet enthusiast, proving home is wherever her family is. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this rising star in fantasy and steampunk.
The Making of H.L. Burke
Born amidst the trees and farm animals of north central Oregon, Heidi L. Burke grew up with a book in hand and epic tales in her heart. Influenced by the heroic sagas of Middle Earth and Narnia, she developed an incurable romantic streak and a fascination with geek culture. Her addictive personality led her to dive deep into fandoms, from Tolkien to Trek, shaping her eclectic storytelling style.
Burke’s writing journey began with self-publishing her first novel, The Ordinary Knight and the Invisible Princess, in 2013. Married to her high school crush, she balanced family life and frequent moves due to her husband’s military career while crafting stories. Her unique blend of romance, adventure, and speculative elements quickly caught readers’ attention, setting the stage for her prolific career.
H.L. Burke’s Unforgettable Stories
Burke’s bibliography is a treasure trove of fantasy, steampunk, and superhero tales. The Nyssa Glass series, a five-book steampunk adventure, follows a reformed cat burglar turned electrician’s apprentice navigating killer robots and mysterious mansions. Winning the 2016 Realm Award for Young Adult Fiction, it’s praised for its action, humor, and touch of romance.
Her fantasy series, The Dragon and the Scholar, weaves a four-part tale of a pragmatic scholar and a cursed dragon prince, blending political intrigue with slow-burn romance. For younger readers, Cora and the Nurse Dragon offers a whimsical middle-grade fantasy about a girl dreaming of owning a pet dragon. Burke’s Supervillain Rehabilitation Project series dives into superhero fiction, exploring redemption and found family with teens mastering their powers.
Burke’s style shines through her vibrant characters and immersive world-building. Whether it’s steampunk gadgets or magical creatures, her stories balance heart, humor, and suspense, appealing to readers who love speculative fiction with emotional depth. Her ability to craft relatable heroes facing moral dilemmas sets her apart in the genre.
Why H.L. Burke Matters
H.L. Burke’s impact lies in her ability to create stories that resonate across ages and fandoms. Her focus on redemption, family, and perseverance speaks to readers seeking hope and adventure. The Nyssa Glass series has earned a dedicated following in steampunk circles, while her fantasy works draw praise for their rich worlds and character-driven plots.
As a self-published author, Burke’s success highlights the power of independent publishing in speculative fiction. Her engagement with fans through platforms like Goodreads and her contributions to anthologies like Fellowship of Fantasy show her commitment to the genre. Burke’s stories inspire readers to embrace their inner hero, making her a beloved voice in modern fantasy.
About H.L. Burke
- Born in north central Oregon, surrounded by nature and books.
- Key works: Nyssa Glass series, The Dragon and the Scholar, Cora and the Nurse Dragon.
- Won the 2016 Realm Award for Young Adult Fiction for Nyssa Glass.
- Married to a retired US Marine with two daughters and pets.
Ready to explore epic adventures and heartfelt tales? Snag Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors and dive into H.L. Burke’s thrilling steampunk world!