Picture a storyteller who spun tales of teenage mischief and heartfelt road trips, all while juggling two author names—meet Katie Finn, the playful pseudonym of New York Times bestselling author Morgan Catherine Matson! Known for her vibrant young adult novels, Finn’s stories capture the thrill of summer romances and social media mysteries, making her a favorite among teens and nostalgic adults alike.
Beneath the Katie Finn pen name lies a writer whose journey from theatre kid to literary star is as engaging as her books. With a knack for crafting plot-driven dramas and character-focused coming-of-age tales, Finn (aka Matson) has carved a unique niche in YA fiction, inviting readers to laugh, cry, and rediscover themselves through her pages.
The Making of Katie Finn
Born in New York City on September 19, Morgan Matson grew up splitting time between the city’s buzz and the quieter charm of Greenwich, Connecticut. As a teen, she was a theatre devotee, dreaming of the stage rather than the page. Her love for storytelling took root at Occidental College in Los Angeles, where a job at Vroman’s Bookstore’s children’s department sparked a passion for young adult literature. Halfway through her theatre degree, she added English as a double major, setting the stage for her writing career. Matson later earned an MFA in Writing for Children from The New School in New York, followed by another in Screenwriting from USC, honing her ability to craft vivid narratives.
Katie Finn’s Unforgettable Stories
Under the Katie Finn pseudonym, Matson debuted with Top 8 in 2008, a juicy novel about Madison MacDonald, a teen navigating a social media mystery after her online profile is hacked. The Top 8 trilogy, including What’s Your Status? and Unfriended, is packed with prom heists and friendship dramas, showcasing Finn’s flair for fast-paced, plot-driven stories. These books, set in a fictional Connecticut town reminiscent of Matson’s own Greenwich, resonate with readers for their witty take on early 2000s teen culture and digital dilemmas.
Finn’s second series, Broken Hearts & Revenge, kicks off with Broken Hearts, Fences, and Other Things to Mend (2014). Set in the sun-soaked Hamptons, it follows Gemma, a teen untangling past mistakes and new romances amidst a whirlwind of secrets. The trilogy’s comedic tone and cliffhanger endings keep readers hooked, with titles like Revenge, Ice Cream, and Other Things Best Served Cold reflecting Finn’s playful style. Unlike Matson’s introspective novels, Finn’s works lean into soap-opera-esque twists, making them perfect for readers craving light, dramatic fun.
As Morgan Matson, she writes character-driven stories like Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour (2010), inspired by her cross-country move, and Second Chance Summer, which draws from her Pocono Mountains vacations. This duality—plot-heavy Finn versus soulful Matson—lets her explore diverse storytelling styles, earning her a versatile fanbase.
Why Katie Finn Matters
Katie Finn’s novels offer more than escapist fun; they capture the messy, thrilling essence of teenage life. Her focus on friendship, identity, and redemption resonates with young readers navigating their own dramas. The Top 8 trilogy, with its early exploration of social media’s impact, feels prescient in today’s digital age, while the Broken Hearts series celebrates resilience and second chances. Matson’s ability to toggle between Finn’s breezy mysteries and her own poignant tales has cemented her as a YA powerhouse, inspiring aspiring writers to embrace versatility.
Her critical acclaim, including an ALA Top Ten Best Books nod for Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour and a California Book Award for Second Chance Summer, underscores her influence. Finn’s stories, though lighter, have sparked a loyal following, proving that even plot-driven tales can leave a lasting mark.
About Katie Finn
- Real Name: Morgan Catherine Matson
- Born: September 19
- Key Works: Top 8 trilogy, Broken Hearts & Revenge series
- Fun Fact: Lives in Los Angeles with her rescue terrier, Murphy
Ready to dive into a world of summer flings and digital intrigue? Grab Top 8 or Broken Hearts, Fences, and Other Things to Mend and let Katie Finn’s vibrant YA adventures sweep you away!