Picture a storyteller who spun a tale of a dethroned princess rising from ashes to reclaim her kingdom—meet Laura Sebastian! Born and raised in the sunny groves of South Florida, this young adult fantasy author has captivated readers with her vivid worlds and fierce heroines. Her debut novel, Ash Princess, marked her as a rising star, blending heart-pounding rebellion with intricate court intrigue.
Now based in New York City, Sebastian crafts stories that resonate with fans of Victoria Aveyard and Sabaa Tahir, earning her a spot on the New York Times bestseller list. Let’s dive into the journey of this imaginative author who’s redefining fantasy with every page.
The Making of Laura Sebastian
Laura Sebastian grew up in the vibrant landscapes of South Florida, where avocado groves and island adventures fueled her storytelling passion. As a child, she penned tales—like a second-grade Cinderella retelling with angels—that hinted at her future flair for fantasy. After high school, she pursued a BFA in Performing Arts at Savannah College of Art and Design, honing her creative instincts. Moving to New York City, she immersed herself in writing, babysitting, and publishing internships, all while dreaming up epic narratives.
Her persistence paid off after a decade of writing, with her tenth manuscript becoming her breakout hit, Ash Princess. Inspired by her love for ancient Greece, Rome, and Viking lore, Sebastian’s worlds are as rich as her journey from a sun-loving small-town girl to a celebrated author.
Laura Sebastian’s Unforgettable Stories
Sebastian’s bibliography sparkles with young adult fantasy, anchored by the New York Times bestselling Ash Princess trilogy. Ash Princess (2018) introduces Theodosia, a princess stripped of her throne, navigating a treacherous court to spark a rebellion. Its sequels, Lady Smoke (2019) and Ember Queen (2020), deepen the saga with political intrigue and emotional stakes, earning praise for their feminist twists and unpredictable plots.
Her Castles in Their Bones series (2022–2024) follows three princesses trained for conquest, weaving seduction and betrayal into a 17th-century-inspired world. Sebastian also ventured into adult fiction with Half Sick of Shadows (2021), a bold Arthurian retelling of the Lady of Shalott, and charmed younger readers with the middle-grade Into the Glades (2022), set in an Everglades-inspired fantasy realm. Her style—lush, character-driven, and layered with themes of resilience and identity—draws readers into worlds where heroines wield sharp wits and sharper hearts.
Known for crafting matriarchal societies and morally complex characters, Sebastian’s stories resonate with readers seeking empowering narratives. Her knack for blending historical influences with magical elements makes each book a thrilling escape.
Why Laura Sebastian Matters
Laura Sebastian’s impact on young adult fantasy lies in her ability to craft heroines who rise above trauma to reclaim their power. Theodosia’s journey in Ash Princess mirrors real-world struggles for agency, striking a chord with readers navigating their own challenges. Her inclusive, feminist narratives have inspired a new generation of fantasy fans, earning accolades from authors like Kate Quinn and Tamora Pierce.
By expanding into adult and middle-grade fiction, Sebastian proves her versatility, cementing her as a voice to watch. Her stories remind us that even in the darkest courts, hope and rebellion can light the way.
- Born: South Florida
- Key Works: Ash Princess, Castles in Their Bones, Half Sick of Shadows, Into the Glades
- Notable Achievement: New York Times bestselling author
- Hobbies: Reading, baking, and forcing her dog Neville on walks
Ready to lose yourself in a world of rebellion and magic? Snag Ash Princess and dive into Laura Sebastian’s spellbinding fantasy!