Picture a Massachusetts-born storyteller who spun Greek mythology into a spellbinding young adult saga—meet Josephine Angelini! A #1 international bestselling author, Angelini burst onto the literary scene with her Starcrossed trilogy, blending ancient myths with modern teen drama. Her vivid storytelling and empowering themes have captivated readers worldwide, making her a standout voice in young adult fantasy.
With a knack for crafting heroines who face epic destinies, Angelini draws from her unique background to create worlds that feel both timeless and fresh. Let’s dive into her journey, from a farmer’s daughter to a celebrated author whose books keep fans up all night!
The Making of Josephine Angelini
Born in 1975 in Ashland, Massachusetts, Josephine Angelini grew up as the youngest of eight siblings on a farm, where her imagination flourished amidst sprawling fields and family chaos. A graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, she studied theater with a focus on classical literature, particularly Greek mythology. This passion for ancient stories became the bedrock of her writing career. After moving to Los Angeles, Angelini initially pursued screenwriting, but her love for novels took over, leading to her debut, Starcrossed, in 2011.
Josephine Angelini’s Unforgettable Stories
Angelini’s Starcrossed trilogy—Starcrossed (2011), Dreamless (2012), and Goddess (2013)—is her crown jewel, reimagining the Trojan War through the eyes of Helen Hamilton, a modern-day Scion with divine powers. The series weaves romance, action, and mythology, earning praise for its “clever reworking of Greek mythology” from Newsday. Fans, dubbed StarHearts, adore its high-stakes drama and Helen’s journey to defy her tragic fate.
Beyond Starcrossed, Angelini’s Worldwalker trilogy—Trial by Fire (2014), Firewalker (2015), and Witch’s Pyre (2016)—explores a multiverse inspired by the Salem witch hunts. Protagonist Lily Proctor navigates parallel worlds with elemental magic, showcasing Angelini’s knack for strong, relatable heroines. Her 2020 thriller, What She Found in the Woods, shifts gears to psychological suspense, proving her versatility. Angelini’s style blends vivid imagery, emotional depth, and fast-paced plots, often drawing from dreams to evoke powerful feelings on the page.
In 2022, Angelini co-founded Sungrazer Publishing with her husband, expanding her creative reach. Her recent Chronicles of Lucitopia series, starting with Illustrated Girl (2023), targets middle-grade readers, showing her range across age groups. Each work reflects her love for mythology, empowerment, and the messy beauty of human connections.
Why Josephine Angelini Matters
Josephine Angelini’s impact lies in her ability to make ancient myths resonate with modern teens. Her heroines, like Helen and Lily, inspire readers to embrace their strength and rewrite their destinies, earning her a loyal fanbase and accolades like Germany’s Reader’s Choice Awards. By blending classical influences with contemporary issues, she bridges past and present, encouraging young readers to explore their own power.
Her work also highlights the importance of diverse storytelling in young adult literature. Through Sungrazer Publishing, Angelini champions new voices, ensuring fresh narratives reach eager readers. Her books remain a gateway to mythology for a new generation, sparking curiosity and wonder.
- Born: 1975, Ashland, Massachusetts
- Key Works: Starcrossed trilogy, Worldwalker trilogy, What She Found in the Woods
- Awards: Reader’s Choice Awards (Germany)
- Fun Fact: She can still drive a tractor!
Ready to dive into a world of gods, magic, and epic romance? Snag Starcrossed and lose yourself in Josephine Angelini’s enchanting fantasy!