Picture a Chicago storyteller who spun magic, humor, and a touch of the risqué into unforgettable tales—meet Jennifer Stevenson! Born in 1955, this American author has carved a niche in fantasy and romance, blending urban grit with whimsical charm. Her debut, Trash Sex Magic, captivated readers and critics alike, earning nods for prestigious awards and cementing her as a voice for the underdog.
With a knack for sex-positive narratives and working-class heroes, Stevenson’s stories pulse with life, humor, and heart. As a proud member of the feminist speculative fiction community, she’s not just a writer but a mentor, shaping the next generation of storytellers with her bold, inclusive vision.
The Making of Jennifer Stevenson
Born on October 6, 1955, in Waukegan, Illinois, Jennifer Stevenson grew up with a storyteller’s spirit. Writing since age four, she didn’t publish until 34, embracing a ‘backward’ life that included swimming at 40, roller derby at 52, and speed skating at 54. Living in Chicago with her stagehand husband and two mischievous cats, she draws inspiration from the city’s vibrant, gritty energy. Her love for crows—tossing them peanuts for fun—mirrors her delight in life’s quirky moments.
Stevenson’s career kicked off with short stories, but her 2004 novel Trash Sex Magic marked her as a rising star. Influenced by Chicago’s working-class culture and feminist ideals, she crafted tales that celebrated the overlooked, earning her a place in the speculative fiction scene.
Jennifer Stevenson’s Unforgettable Stories
Stevenson’s bibliography is a treasure trove of genre-blending brilliance. Her debut, Trash Sex Magic (2004), weaves magical realism with raw, human struggles, following characters in a trailer park who defy classist stereotypes. Praised by critic Jessica Crispin for its non-judgmental portrayal of the poor, it snagged spots on Locus’s First Fantasy Short Novel Award shortlist and the Nebula Award longlist.
The Hinky Chicago series, starting with The Brass Bed (2008), mixes romantic fantasy with urban flair. It follows fraud cop Jewel Heiss and her encounters with a cursed incubus, blending humor and heat. The Coed Demon Sluts series flips the succubus trope, exploring female empowerment through cheeky, food-loving demons. Meanwhile, Backstage Boys delivers non-magical rom-coms about sexy stagehands, turning blue-collar workers into heartthrobs. Stevenson’s style—witty, sex-positive, and grounded in Chicago’s pulse—makes every page a joy.
Her short stories, like ‘Solstice,’ and contributions to anthologies showcase her versatility, while her work with Book View Cafe, a publishing co-op, highlights her commitment to author autonomy. Whether it’s voodoo, music, or love, Stevenson’s stories feel fresh yet timeless.
Why Jennifer Stevenson Matters
Jennifer Stevenson’s impact lies in her fearless storytelling and advocacy. By centering working-class and female voices, she challenges genre norms, offering representation that resonates with readers craving authenticity. Her mentorship and workshops, like ‘Finding Your Voice,’ empower new writers, while her ‘Smut and Nothing But’ erotica readings at conventions like WisCon celebrate bold, inclusive narratives.
Her papers, archived at Northern Illinois University, reflect her creative process, ensuring her legacy endures. Stevenson’s blend of humor, heart, and social commentary continues to inspire, proving speculative fiction can be both fun and profound.
- Born: October 6, 1955, Waukegan, Illinois
- Key Works: Trash Sex Magic, The Brass Bed, Coed Demon Sluts, King of Hearts
- Awards: Nominated for Locus and Nebula Awards
- Fun Fact: She feeds crows and loves roller derby!
Snag Trash Sex Magic or dive into the Hinky Chicago series for a wild, witty ride through Jennifer Stevenson’s magical world!