Picture a British storyteller who whisked readers away to a world of psychic powers and soulmates—meet Joss Stirling! As the pseudonym of Julia Golding, Stirling has enchanted young adult readers with her urban fantasy, romance, and mystery novels. With over fifty books published worldwide, her stories, especially the beloved Benedict/Savant series, weave supernatural thrills with heartfelt coming-of-age tales, all from her home in Oxford, UK.
Stirling’s knack for blending travel, mystery, and romance has earned her a devoted following and prestigious awards. Whether it’s the telepathic Benedict brothers or a chilling psychological thriller, her work captures the magic of finding one’s place in a fantastical world. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this literary gem!
The Making of Joss Stirling
Born in London in 1969, Julia Golding grew up on the edge of Epping Forest, a setting that likely sparked her imaginative flair. She studied English at Cambridge University before embarking on a diplomatic career in Poland, even exploring coal mines and mountains. Later, she earned a Ph.D. in English Literature from Oxford University, focusing on the Romantic period, and worked as an Oxfam lobbyist advocating for civilians in war zones. This eclectic background—blending academia, global travel, and activism—infused her writing with rich, worldly perspectives.
Writing as Joss Stirling, Golding debuted in 2010 with Finding Sky, launching her Benedict/Savant series. Her decision to use a pseudonym allowed her to explore young adult romance and fantasy without overlapping with her middle-grade and historical fiction written as Julia Golding and Eve Edwards. This strategic move unleashed a flood of creativity, cementing her as a versatile storyteller.
Joss Stirling’s Unforgettable Stories
Stirling’s Benedict/Savant series is her crown jewel, a nine-book saga following the seven Benedict brothers, savants with psychic powers like telepathy, healing, and fire manipulation. Finding Sky (2010) introduces Sky Bright, a British teen who discovers she’s a savant and soulmate to Zed Benedict in Colorado. Readers are hooked by the mix of suspense, romance, and supernatural intrigue, set against vivid backdrops like the Rockies and Venice.
Stealing Phoenix (2011) shifts to London, exploring Phoenix’s secretive life and her connection to Yves Benedict, while Seeking Crystal (2012) dazzles in Venice with Crystal, a savant who feels like an outsider. Later books like Misty Falls (2014) and Angel Dares (2015) introduce new heroines and settings, from South Africa to a fictional UK music festival. Stirling’s style—fast-paced, emotionally rich, and laced with humor—avoids clichés like vampires, offering fresh paranormal romance.
Beyond the Savant series, Stirling’s Struck (2014) won the 2015 Romantic Novel of the Year Award for its detective romance, praised as “Mean Girls meets 21 Jump Street.” Her adult thriller Don’t Trust Me (2018) and The Silence showcase her versatility, diving into psychological twists. Each story reflects her love for travel, diverse characters, and the thrill of uncovering hidden truths.
Why Joss Stirling Matters
Joss Stirling’s impact lies in her ability to craft relatable heroines and immersive worlds that resonate with teens and adults alike. Her diverse characters, like Raven in Struck, address the need for inclusivity in young adult fiction. By blending romance with mystery and supernatural elements, she’s carved a niche in urban fantasy, earning accolades like the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize and a German Children’s Literature Award shortlist.
Stirling’s stories inspire readers to embrace their unique gifts and navigate life’s complexities, all while delivering heart-pounding adventures. Her Oxford-based storytelling continues to captivate, proving that even lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark.
- Born: 1969, London, UK
- Key Works: Finding Sky, Stealing Phoenix, Seeking Crystal, Struck
- Awards: 2015 Romantic Novel of the Year (Struck), Waterstones Children’s Book Prize
Ready to get lost in a world of savants and soulmates? Snag Finding Sky and dive into Joss Stirling’s thrilling urban fantasy!