Picture a storyteller who spins fairy tales into heartfelt, modern classics—meet Jessilyn Stewart Peaslee! This Utah-based author, with a knack for reimagining beloved stories, has enchanted readers with her award-winning novels like Ella and Finding Beauty in the Beast. A mother of five with a passion for inspiring young writers, Jessilyn crafts tales that blend romance, resilience, and a touch of magic.
From her roots in sunny Southern California to her life amidst Utah’s towering Rockies, Jessilyn’s journey is as captivating as her books. With a BA in English from Brigham Young University, she channels her love for Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and fairy tales into stories that resonate with teens and adults alike.
The Making of Jessilyn Stewart Peaslee
Born into a family of avid readers, movie quoters, and sports fans in Southern California, Jessilyn grew up surrounded by stories. Her love for literature deepened at Brigham Young University, where she studied English, French, and the humanities, drawing inspiration from classic authors. It wasn’t until later, as a mother, that she began writing, turning her lifelong passion for fairy tales into novels that offer fresh, grounded perspectives. Her debut, Ella, written while juggling family life, marked the start of her literary ascent.
Jessilyn Stewart Peaslee’s Unforgettable Stories
Jessilyn’s novels are fairy tale retellings with a twist, blending historical settings, romance, and themes of self-worth and resilience. Her debut, Ella (2015), a Cinderella-inspired tale, won the Silver Quill Award from the League of Utah Writers. It follows Ella Blakeley, a resilient heroine who overcomes cruelty with kindness and determination, offering a humanized take on the classic story. Its companion, Ella’s Will (2016), retells the tale from the perspective of Will, a stable boy, adding depth and humor.
Her standout work, Finding Beauty in the Beast (2018), earned the Gold Quill Award. This Beauty and the Beast retelling flips expectations, with Princess Rose’s fiery temper challenging suitors until a blacksmith’s simple rose sparks an unexpected romance. Jessilyn’s latest, Awake at Widmore Manor (2020), reimagines The Princess and the Pea in a Regency-era setting, exploring themes of trust and redemption. Her style—elegant, witty, and emotionally rich—makes her stories accessible yet profound, perfect for young adult and romance readers.
Why Jessilyn Stewart Peaslee Matters
Jessilyn’s impact extends beyond her books. By visiting schools across Utah and beyond, she inspires young writers to chase their dreams, emphasizing perseverance and creativity. Her stories, which champion strong, relatable heroines, resonate with readers seeking empowerment and hope. Fans praise her for crafting clean, meaningful romances that appeal to tweens, teens, and adults, making her a beloved voice in young adult fiction. Her ability to balance motherhood with a thriving writing career further cements her as a role model.
- Born: Southern California
- Key Works: Ella, Ella’s Will, Finding Beauty in the Beast, Awake at Widmore Manor
- Awards: Silver Quill (2016), Gold Quill (2018)
- Hobbies: Playing piano, watching movies, folding laundry (or so she claims!)
Snag Ella or Finding Beauty in the Beast and dive into Jessilyn Stewart Peaslee’s enchanting world of fairy tale romance!