Picture an American storyteller who rocketed into the sci-fi scene with a universe-spanning saga—meet Jennifer Foehner Wells! Born in 1972, this science fiction novelist has captivated readers with her Confluence series, blending cosmic adventures with deeply human stories. With a knack for crafting scientifically plausible worlds and relatable characters, Wells has carved a unique niche in the genre, earning a devoted global readership.
From her rural Illinois roots to her viral debut, Wells’s journey is as fascinating as her stories. Her passion for science fiction, sparked by Ray Bradbury’s tales, fuels her imaginative narratives, making her a rising star whose books are must-reads for sci-fi fans.
The Making of Jennifer Foehner Wells
Growing up in the wild outdoors of rural Illinois, Jennifer Foehner Wells found solace in books and her budding imagination. A family friend’s gift of a Ray Bradbury compilation ignited her love for science fiction, shaping her future. She pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Biology at Monmouth College, later working as a lab technician in an animal disease diagnostic lab and as an assistant store manager at a greenhouse. These experiences grounded her scientific curiosity, which shines through in her writing. Before her original novels, Wells dipped her toes in fan fiction, penning a Stargate Atlantis story, Futura Memoratia, which built her early online following.
Jennifer Foehner Wells’s Unforgettable Stories
Wells’s breakout novel, Fluency (2014), introduced the Confluence series, a space opera blending first-contact thrills with linguistic and biological intrigue. The story follows linguist Jane Holloway, who uncovers an alien ship’s secrets, earning praise for its fast-paced, character-driven narrative. It soared up Amazon charts, becoming a KDP Select All-Star. Remanence (2016), the sequel, expanded the universe with political and alien exploration themes, earning a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist spot. Inheritance (2016), originally The Druid Gene, weaves a parallel storyline about Darcy, a woman with a mysterious genetic secret. Vengeance (2018) continues the saga, diving deeper into the multispecies crew’s galactic quests. Wells’s style—accessible yet rich with scientific detail—draws from influences like Douglas Adams and Karen Traviss, creating immersive worlds that resonate with both casual readers and science buffs.
Her characters, from determined linguists to ragtag crews, leap off the page with realistic dialogue and emotional depth. Wells balances hard science with human connections, avoiding clichéd alien tropes to craft nuanced, brotherhood-like bonds between species, making her series a refreshing take on space opera.
Why Jennifer Foehner Wells Matters
Jennifer Foehner Wells has redefined modern science fiction by blending rigorous science with heartfelt storytelling. Her Confluence series has inspired readers to explore the genre’s possibilities, earning accolades like the 2015 eLit Gold Award for Fluency. As a member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, she’s a respected voice, contributing to anthologies like The Alien Chronicles. Living in Pennsylvania with her literature professor husband, two teenage sons, and a menagerie of pets, Wells remains a serial hobbyist—knitting, gaming, and spinning yarn—infusing her work with a vibrant, multifaceted perspective. Her growing influence signals a bright future for sci-fi.
- Born: 1972 in Illinois
- Key Works: Fluency, Remanence, Inheritance, Vengeance
- Awards: 2015 eLit Gold Award (Fantasy/Science Fiction), Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist (2016)
- Hobbies: Knitting, watercolor painting, gaming
Snag Fluency and dive into Jennifer Foehner Wells’s thrilling sci-fi universe today!