Picture a storyteller who spins tales of magic, mischief, and mayhem with a hearty dose of humor—meet Lisa Shearin! This New York Times and USA Today bestselling author has enchanted fantasy fans with her witty Raine Benares series and the urban fantasy thrills of The SPI Files. From her North Carolina farm, where she dotes on retired greyhounds and collects vintage fountain pens, Shearin crafts worlds that feel as vibrant as her own colorful life.
Known for her comedic flair and knack for blending adventure with supernatural shenanigans, Shearin’s stories are like a cozy chat with a friend who just happens to know a few dragons. Her journey from advertising editor to fantasy luminary is as captivating as the tales she tells, proving that magic can be found in the most unexpected places.
The Making of Lisa Shearin
Born and raised in the United States, Lisa Shearin’s early life was shaped by a love for storytelling and a penchant for creative pursuits. Before she was weaving spells on the page, she honed her skills in the corporate world, working as a magazine editor, advertising copywriter, and freelance proofreader for an advertising agency. These roles sharpened her ability to craft engaging narratives, a skill she later channeled into her novels. Her passion for fantasy was fueled by a lifelong love of reading and an enthusiasm for fencing—foil, epee, and even rapier and dagger dueling—which likely inspired the swashbuckling spirit of her characters.
Lisa Shearin’s Unforgettable Stories
Shearin’s breakout hit, the Raine Benares series, is a six-book comedic fantasy adventure that follows the titular sorceress, a seeker with a knack for trouble. The first novel, Magic Lost, Trouble Found (2007), introduces Raine as she grapples with a powerful amulet and a world of danger, all while delivering snappy one-liners. Subsequent books like Armed & Magical and Bewitched & Betrayed ramp up the stakes with demons, goblins, and romantic tension, earning comparisons to Janet Evanovich for their humor and heart.
In 2013, Shearin launched The SPI Files, an urban fantasy series described as “Men in Black meets Stephanie Plum.” Starting with The Grendel Affair, the series follows Makenna Fraser, a seer for Supernatural Protection & Investigations, as she battles monsters like Grendel’s descendants and vampire gangsters. Shearin’s writing shines with vivid world-building, fast-paced plots, and a playful tone that makes every page a delight. Her ability to balance action, humor, and supernatural intrigue has cemented her as a beloved voice in fantasy.
Shearin also ventured into paranormal political thrillers with the Aurora Donati series, showcasing her versatility. Her stories often explore themes of resilience, loyalty, and the chaos of magical worlds, all wrapped in a style that’s accessible yet richly detailed.
Why Lisa Shearin Matters
Lisa Shearin’s impact lies in her ability to make fantasy feel fresh and fun. Her comedic approach has carved a niche in a genre often dominated by grim epics, offering readers an escape that’s both thrilling and lighthearted. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise her for creating relatable heroines like Raine Benares, whose wit and grit resonate deeply. By blending urban fantasy with humor, Shearin has influenced a wave of authors who prioritize character-driven stories over sprawling lore.
Her dedication to her craft, despite a demanding day job, inspires aspiring writers to pursue their dreams. Shearin’s love for her greyhounds and her rural life also endears her to readers, painting a picture of an author who lives as vividly as she writes. Her work continues to spark joy for fantasy fans worldwide.
- Born: United States
- Key Works: Raine Benares series, The SPI Files, Aurora Donati series
- Hobbies: Fencing, collecting fountain pens, crocheting
- Awards: RT Reviewers Choice Awards for The Dragon Conspiracy (2015) and The Ghoul Vendetta (2017)
Ready for a magical adventure? Snag Magic Lost, Trouble Found and dive into Lisa Shearin’s hilarious, heart-pounding world of fantasy!