Picture a spirited English storyteller who tackles tough topics with wit and heart—meet Laura Steven! Hailing from the northernmost town in England, this award-winning author, journalist, and screenwriter has taken the young adult fiction world by storm. Her debut novel, The Exact Opposite of Okay, not only won the inaugural Comedy Women in Print Prize but also set the stage for a career blending humor, feminism, and fearless storytelling.
With a knack for crafting relatable characters and sharp dialogue, Steven’s books resonate with readers worldwide, from teens to adults. Her work, often infused with contemporary issues like social media and gender dynamics, has been translated into multiple languages and even caught the eye of TV producers. Ready to dive into her vibrant world? Let’s explore Laura Steven’s journey!
The Making of Laura Steven
Born and raised in Berwick-upon-Tweed, Laura Steven grew up with a love for stories, channeling her inner Matilda with frequent library visits. She earned a BA in Journalism and an MA in Creative Writing from Northumbria University, honing her craft while dreaming of novels. Starting in magazine journalism, she published her first crime thriller, Run Away, at just 23 under the pseudonym Laura Salters. This early success paved the way for her pivot to young adult fiction, where her bold voice found its true home.
Steven’s passion for empowering women in the arts shines through her work with Mslexia, a non-profit supporting women writers. Her early career also included a finalist spot for her TV pilot, Clickbait, in the 2016 British Comedy Sitcom Mission, showcasing her versatility across mediums.
Laura Steven’s Unforgettable Stories
Laura Steven’s novels are a delightful mix of humor, heart, and hard-hitting themes. Her debut, The Exact Opposite of Okay (2018), follows Izzy O’Neill, a teen navigating a revenge porn scandal with sharp wit and feminist fire. Its sequel, A Girl Called Shameless (2019), sees Izzy tackling systemic sexism, cementing Steven’s knack for blending comedy with activism.
Steven’s reimaginings of classics are equally compelling. Every Exquisite Thing (2023), a feminist retelling of The Picture of Dorian Gray, explores beauty and ambition, landing in Waterstones’ Best Books of 2023. The Society for Soulless Girls (2022), a sapphic horror take on Jekyll & Hyde, dives into female rage and was shortlisted for the YA Book Prize. Her latest, Our Infinite Fates (2025), a fantasy romance spanning 1,000 years, hit #1 on the New York Times bestseller list, proving her range across genres.
Known for her quip-heavy dialogue and vibrant characters, Steven’s style is both accessible and profound. Her books tackle issues like misogyny and identity with a light touch, making complex topics relatable for young readers. Whether it’s a middle-grade mermaid tale or a dark academia thriller, her storytelling sparkles with authenticity.
Why Laura Steven Matters
Laura Steven’s impact lies in her ability to make readers laugh, think, and feel all at once. Her feminist narratives have carved a space in YA fiction for nuanced discussions about gender, power, and resilience. By addressing real-world issues through relatable characters, she empowers teens to question societal norms and find their voices. Her work with Mslexia further amplifies her commitment to uplifting women in the creative arts.
With translations in over a dozen languages and TV adaptations in the works, Steven’s influence extends globally. Her rise from a small-town book nerd to a bestselling author inspires aspiring writers, proving that passion and persistence can break barriers. As she ventures into adult fantasy with the upcoming Silvercloak trilogy under L.K. Steven, her legacy continues to grow.
- Birthplace: Berwick-upon-Tweed, England
- Key Works: The Exact Opposite of Okay, Our Infinite Fates, Every Exquisite Thing
- Awards: Comedy Women in Print Prize (2018)
Snag The Exact Opposite of Okay and dive into Laura Steven’s witty, empowering world! Her books are perfect for anyone craving stories that spark laughter and courage.