Picture a British storyteller weaving magical worlds filled with fierce heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and heart-pounding battles—meet Karen Tomlinson! A USA Today Bestselling author, Tomlinson captivates readers with her spicy, action-packed fantasy and paranormal romance novels. From her home in Derbyshire, England, she balances a career as a nurse and resuscitation trainer with crafting epic tales that transport fans to realms of magic and adventure.
With her knack for creating vivid characters and intricate worlds, Tomlinson has carved a niche in the fantasy genre. Her bestselling series, The Goddess and the Guardians, is a testament to her storytelling prowess, blending romance, danger, and destiny. Ready to dive into her enchanting universe? Let’s explore the life and works of this rising star!
The Making of Karen Tomlinson
Born and raised in Derbyshire, England—think rolling hills and Mr. Darcy vibes—Karen Tomlinson grew up with a love for books and an imagination sparked by fantasy. A self-professed bookworm, she devoured stories across genres, but epic fantasy romances stole her heart. Her early life wasn’t all about writing, though. Tomlinson trained as a nurse and now works as a resuscitation and clinical skills trainer, teaching medical professionals life-saving techniques. This dual life as a healthcare hero and storyteller shapes her disciplined yet creative approach to writing.
Tomlinson’s writing journey began with a desire to craft the kind of stories she loved reading—tales of strong women, magical worlds, and emotional depth. Inspired by authors like Sarah J. Maas, she started penning her debut novel, A Bond of Venom and Magic, which launched her into the literary spotlight. Her background in Shotokan karate, which she’s practiced since age 13, also infuses her stories with dynamic action scenes.
Karen Tomlinson’s Unforgettable Stories
Tomlinson’s bibliography is a treasure trove of fantasy and paranormal romance, known for its spicy romance, intricate world-building, and characters who grow through adversity. Her flagship series, The Goddess and the Guardians, follows Diamond Gillon, a half-Fae, half-human heroine navigating war, magic, and forbidden love. The series kicks off with A Bond of Venom and Magic, where Diamond’s journey from naïve village girl to powerful warrior captivates readers. Sequels like A Bond of Blood and Fire deepen the saga with intense battles and emotional stakes.
Beyond high fantasy, Tomlinson explores paranormal romance in the Shadow Sentinels series, a steamy urban fantasy featuring wolf shifters and standalone novels like Alpha Scorned. Her latest work, the Aether Series, including Veil of Souls and the upcoming King of Demons, blends fast-paced action with romantic tension. Tomlinson’s style shines through her focus on strong, flawed characters—think kickass heroines and alpha heroes who’d burn worlds for love—paired with vivid magical systems and heart-wrenching plot twists.
Her ability to weave romance and action has earned comparisons to Jaymin Eve and Ilona Andrews, appealing to readers who crave emotional depth and high stakes. Whether it’s dragons soaring through the Eight Kingdoms or shifters prowling urban streets, Tomlinson’s worlds are immersive and unforgettable.
Why Karen Tomlinson Matters
Karen Tomlinson’s impact lies in her ability to create empowering stories that resonate with fans of fantasy and romance. Her heroines, like Diamond Gillon, evolve from vulnerability to strength, inspiring readers to embrace their own resilience. By blending spicy romance with intricate plots, she’s expanded the appeal of fantasy, drawing in diverse audiences. Her contribution to charity anthologies, like Fierce Hearts for Ukrainian refugees, also showcases her commitment to using her platform for good.
As a self-published author who’s risen to USA Today Bestseller status, Tomlinson is a beacon for aspiring writers, proving that passion and perseverance can break through. Her growing fanbase, active on platforms like her Silver Guardians Facebook group, reflects her knack for connecting with readers through newsletters and Patreon, where she shares exclusive content.
- Key Series: The Goddess and the Guardians, Shadow Sentinels, Aether Series
- Notable Work: A Bond of Venom and Magic
- Hobbies: Shotokan karate, mountain biking, cake decorating
- Fun Fact: She lives with her husband, twin girls, and dalmatian, Poppy!
Ready to lose yourself in a magical adventure? Snag A Bond of Venom and Magic and dive into Karen Tomlinson’s spellbinding fantasy today!