Picture an American storyteller who weaves magic, mystery, and mouthwatering pastries into unforgettable young adult tales—meet Lola Dodge! Bursting onto the literary scene in 2014, Dodge enchanted readers with her debut novel, M10: Unlikely Beginnings, and later captivated fans with the spellbinding Spellwork Syndicate series. Her stories, brimming with witches, romance, and magical baking, offer a delicious escape into worlds where danger and sweetness collide.
When she’s not crafting enchanting narratives, Dodge is a compulsive traveler, a Korean drama binge-watcher, and a baker who likely dreams in cherry soda and chocolate. Her unique blend of whimsy and adventure has carved a special niche in young adult fiction, making her a hidden gem worth discovering.
The Making of Lola Dodge
Lola Dodge’s journey to becoming a beloved young adult author began with a passion for storytelling and a knack for baking. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in English from Stonehill College and an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University, Dodge honed her craft with a focus on creating vibrant, accessible stories. Her love for travel and diverse cultures infuses her work with rich, dynamic settings, while her playful personality shines through in her characters’ witty banter and quirky charm. Before her debut, Dodge was already experimenting with genre-blending narratives, setting the stage for her signature style.
Lola Dodge’s Unforgettable Stories
Dodge’s debut, M10: Unlikely Beginnings (2014), introduced readers to her knack for blending action and romance, following a heroine navigating love and danger with a playful twist. However, it’s her Spellwork Syndicate series that truly showcases her magic. The first book, Deadly Sweet (2018), follows Anise Wise, a witch whose rare ability to bake enchanted treats lands her in a world of mystery and peril in Taos, New Mexico. Readers are drawn into Anise’s struggles with rejection, her growth as a magical baker, and a slow-burn romance with her gruff bodyguard, Wynn.
The sequel, Sugar Spells (2019), dives deeper into Anise’s evolving powers, introducing death magic that threatens her dream of a peaceful baking life. Dodge’s writing sparkles with vivid descriptions of magical confections—like “killer Oreos”—and a cozy yet thrilling atmosphere. Her contribution to the Shadow Ravens series, including Quanta (2015), showcases her versatility, blending sci-fi with high-stakes adventure. Dodge’s style, marked by humor, heart, and a touch of danger, makes her books a delightful treat for fans of paranormal and urban fantasy.
Why Lola Dodge Matters
Lola Dodge’s impact lies in her ability to craft relatable heroines who embrace their quirks while facing extraordinary challenges. Anise Wise, with her passion for baking and resilience against adversity, resonates with readers who crave stories of self-discovery and empowerment. Dodge’s focus on magical baking adds a fresh twist to young adult fantasy, blending cozy aesthetics with high-stakes drama. Though not a household name, her growing fanbase cherishes her ability to make the mundane magical, inspiring readers to find enchantment in everyday passions like baking or storytelling.
Her work also highlights the power of niche storytelling, proving that lesser-known authors can leave a lasting mark by staying true to their unique voice. Dodge’s stories encourage young readers to embrace their individuality, making her a quiet but meaningful force in young adult literature.
- Education: BA in English (Stonehill College), MFA in Writing Popular Fiction (Seton Hill University)
- Key Works: M10: Unlikely Beginnings (2014), Deadly Sweet (2018), Sugar Spells (2019), Quanta (2015)
- Fun Fact: Dodge is a self-professed fan of Hello Kitty and curry.
Ready to taste the magic? Snag Deadly Sweet and dive into Lola Dodge’s enchanting world of witches, pastries, and adventure!