Picture a Washington, DC storyteller who traded courtroom battles for heartfelt tales of sisterhood—meet Karen Roberts Turner! A trial attorney with a knack for narrative, she rekindled her childhood love for writing to craft her debut novel, The Other Twin, in 2021. Her journey from legal briefs to literary brilliance is as inspiring as her stories.
The Making of Karen Roberts Turner
Born and raised in Washington, DC, Karen Roberts Turner was a dreamer with a pen from an early age. In sixth grade, she penned her first book, earning praise from her English teacher for her storytelling gift. A proud graduate of Cardozo Senior High School, she earned a BA in Biology and Africana Studies from Vassar College, an MA in Bioethics from Georgetown University, and a JD from George Washington University Law School. Her legal career spanned over two decades, handling complex civil, commercial, and medical malpractice cases, but her heart never strayed far from fiction.
A cancer diagnosis in 2013 forced Karen to pivot from private practice to Senior Associate General Counsel for Health Sciences at Howard University. Inspired by her daughter’s creative spark, she revived her passion for writing during a 2016 snowstorm, beginning the journey that would lead to her literary debut.
Karen Roberts Turner’s Unforgettable Stories
Karen’s debut novel, The Other Twin, published in 2021, is a vibrant coming-of-age tale about African-American twin sisters, Ebony and Essence Morgan. The story explores their evolving bond as they navigate college life, heartbreak, and personal growth. Essence, the outgoing leader, seeks to break free from their ‘twinning,’ while Ebony grapples with her sister’s rejection, finding strength in her own identity. Readers praise the vivid characters and relatable themes of sisterhood, friendship, and resilience.
Karen’s writing style is warm and immersive, painting a cinematic picture of college dorms, family ties, and emotional triumphs. Her legal background shines through in her nuanced exploration of ethical dilemmas, while her bioethics expertise adds depth to themes of identity and choice. Though The Other Twin is her only novel to date, its award-winning reception and rave reviews hint at more stories to come.
Karen coined the term ‘Inspirement’ to describe her blend of inspiration and entertainment, a vibe that permeates her work. Her storytelling discourages stereotypes, especially about twins, and celebrates individuality within close-knit bonds. Readers of all ages connect with her universal themes, from navigating first love to overcoming adversity.
Why Karen Roberts Turner Matters
Karen Roberts Turner’s impact transcends the page. As a two-time cancer survivor, she channels her resilience into advocacy, serving on the National Brain Tumor Society board and fundraising for glioblastoma research. Her novel resonates with young adults and beyond, offering hope and relatability in a world of complex relationships. As a Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and a mentor to young professionals, she uplifts her community with the same passion she brings to her writing.
Her shift from law to literature inspires aspiring authors to pursue their dreams, no matter the detours. Karen’s ‘Inspirement’ philosophy encourages readers to find joy and meaning in every story, making her a beacon of positivity in contemporary fiction.
- Birthplace: Washington, DC
- Key Work: The Other Twin (2021)
- Education: Vassar College (BA), Georgetown University (MA), George Washington University (JD)
- Notable Roles: Trial Attorney, Senior Associate General Counsel at Howard University, Author
Snag The Other Twin and dive into Karen Roberts Turner’s heartfelt world of sisterhood and ‘Inspirement’—you’ll be hooked!