Picture an American storyteller spinning tales from a quaint Cotswold cottage, where rolling hills and roving cows inspire chilling horror and heartfelt young adult novels—meet Jennifer Marie Thorne! A USA Today bestselling author, Thorne crafts stories that dance between genres, weaving themes of duty, community, and love with a wit and warmth that captivate readers worldwide.
Born in a small Tennessee town, Thorne’s journey from a drama student to a versatile writer is as enchanting as her books. Now settled in Minchinhampton, England, she channels her expatriate perspective into narratives that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The Making of Jennifer Thorne
Jennifer Thorne grew up shuttling between her parents’ homes across the U.S., with books as her steadfast companions. Her love for storytelling led her to NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she earned a BFA in Drama. Initially drawn to acting, Thorne found her true passion in writing, crafting scripts for friends that sparked her shift to novels. After a stint in Los Angeles, she embraced writing full-time, debuting in 2015 with the acclaimed young adult novel The Wrong Side of Right under her pen name, Jenn Marie Thorne.
Jennifer Thorne’s Unforgettable Stories
Thorne’s bibliography is a vibrant tapestry of genres. Her young adult novels, like The Wrong Side of Right, a romantic comedy set in the whirlwind of presidential politics, showcase her knack for blending humor with social commentary. The Inside of Out tackles advocacy with a light touch, while Night Music explores the passion and heartbreak of classical musicians. Her picture book, Construction Zoo, inspired by playtime with her sons, delights young readers with its whimsical charm.
For adult readers, Thorne ventures into folk horror with Lute, a haunting 2022 novel set on an idyllic island with a dark secret—every seventh summer, seven people die. Diavola, a USA Today bestseller, reinvents the haunted house tale with a gothic Tuscan villa and sharp family dynamics. Co-authored with Lee Kelly, historical adventures like The Antiquity Affair and The Starlets blend Indiana Jones-esque thrills with rich character arcs. Upcoming works, including Newbourne Park and My Fair Frauds, promise more genre-bending magic.
Thorne’s style is elegant yet accessible, often described as “quiet minimalism” that amplifies emotional and horrific stakes. Her ability to pivot from YA rom-coms to unsettling horror reflects her versatility and deep understanding of human connection, making her stories resonate across age groups.
Why Jennifer Thorne Matters
Jennifer Thorne’s impact lies in her ability to bridge genres, offering readers both escapist thrills and thought-provoking themes. Her young adult novels empower teens to navigate identity and societal pressures, while her horror explores the darker corners of community and belonging. As an American expatriate, Thorne brings a unique lens to her settings, from Tennessee to Tuscany, enriching her narratives with cultural nuance.
Her growing fanbase and critical acclaim, including a Goodreads Choice Award nomination for Diavola, signal her rising influence. Thorne’s stories remind us that whether facing supernatural terrors or personal crossroads, the human spirit endures—a message that resonates in today’s complex world.
- Born: Small-town Tennessee, USA
- Key Works: The Wrong Side of Right, Lute, Diavola, The Antiquity Affair
- Current Home: Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire, England
- Notable: USA Today bestselling author, Goodreads Choice Award finalist
Ready to dive into a world of witty romance, chilling horror, or historical adventure? Snag Lute or Diavola and discover why Jennifer Thorne’s stories are impossible to put down!