Picture an American storyteller who conjured swashbuckling fantasies and post-apocalyptic adventures from the vibrant shores of Hong Kong—meet Jordan Rivet! A master of dystopian, fantasy, and young adult fiction, Rivet has enchanted readers worldwide with her immersive worlds and determined heroines. Her celebrated series, like Steel and Fire and The Seabound Chronicles, blend heart-pounding action with intricate character arcs, earning her a devoted global fanbase.
Now settled in Hong Kong with her husband, Rivet draws inspiration from literary giants like Robert Jordan and Leigh Bardugo, weaving tales that resonate with readers of all ages. Her journey from Arizona to Asia is as captivating as the stories she tells, making her a standout voice in modern YA literature.
The Making of Jordan Rivet
Born in Arizona, Jordan Rivet grew up with a passion for storytelling, influenced by epic fantasy masters like Robert Jordan, whose name inspired her pen name. A former fencer, she traded swords for pens, channeling her competitive spirit into crafting vivid narratives. In 2010, she moved to Hong Kong, where the bustling city and Victoria Harbour sparked her imagination. Rivet quit her day job in 2014 to focus on writing, launching her career with The Seabound Chronicles, a bold post-apocalyptic series set at sea.
Her love for adventure and world-building stems from a supportive network of family and friends, as well as her admiration for authors like Brandon Sanderson and Sarah J. Maas. This blend of personal drive and literary inspiration shaped Rivet’s unique voice, marked by strong heroines and richly detailed settings.
Jordan Rivet’s Unforgettable Stories
Rivet’s bibliography spans over twenty-four books across seven series, each showcasing her knack for blending action, intrigue, and emotional depth. The Steel and Fire series, a five-book YA fantasy epic, follows Dara Ruminor, a fierce duelist navigating political intrigue and forbidden magic in the kingdom of Vertigon. Titles like Duel of Fire and King of Mist are lauded for their swashbuckling energy and complex relationships.
The Seabound Chronicles, a post-apocalyptic trilogy, sets sail on a cruise ship turned survivor haven after a volcanic catastrophe. Heroine Esther, a resourceful mechanic, battles storms and human threats, offering a fresh take on dystopian survival. Empire of Talents, another YA fantasy trilogy, dazzles with its shapeshifting protagonist, Mica, who spies in a decadent imperial court. Rivet’s latest, The Lost Clone, dives into YA sci-fi with a murder mystery about a clone named Jane, showcasing her versatility.
Rivet’s style is immersive and character-driven, with vivid settings that transport readers from storm-tossed seas to magical palaces. Her themes of resilience, loyalty, and self-discovery resonate deeply, earning praise for their originality and emotional nuance.
Why Jordan Rivet Matters
Jordan Rivet’s impact lies in her ability to craft worlds where young readers see themselves in determined, flawed heroines. Her stories, set in diverse locales from sea-bound dystopias to fantasy kingdoms, broaden the scope of YA literature, offering fresh perspectives in often formulaic genres. By self-publishing successfully for over a decade, she’s also a beacon for aspiring indie authors, sharing insights at events like the Hong Kong International Literary Festival.
Her global perspective, shaped by life in Hong Kong, infuses her work with cultural richness, appealing to readers seeking inclusive, adventurous tales. Rivet’s growing fanbase and audiobook adaptations—twenty-three titles and counting—cement her as a rising star in fantasy and sci-fi.
- Pen Name Origin: Inspired by Robert Jordan and the surname “Rivet” for its mechanical vibe.
- Key Series: Steel and Fire, The Seabound Chronicles, Empire of Talents, The Lost Clone.
- Notable Work: Duel of Fire, a YA fantasy hit.
- Hong Kong Resident: Living there since 2010.
Ready for a thrilling escape? Snag Duel of Fire or Seabound and dive into Jordan Rivet’s spellbinding worlds of fantasy and adventure!