Picture a storyteller who weaves Viking magic and mythic quests from a quiet corner of Washington state—meet Mande Matthews! This American author, born in Colville, Washington, has enchanted readers with her fantasy fiction, particularly the spellbinding ShadowLight Saga. A self-described hermit with a passion for myth and legend, Matthews crafts worlds that pulse with intrigue, romance, and magic, drawing inspiration from the likes of Joseph Campbell and Terry Brooks.
With over a third of a million books in circulation, Matthews is a #1 international bestselling author and a multi-award-winning artist under her alter-ego, A. Matthews. Her stories, steeped in Norse mythology and epic fantasy, invite readers to lose themselves in realms where heroes battle shadows and hearts ignite. Ready to dive into her magical universe? Let’s explore the life and works of this captivating creator!
The Making of Mande Matthews
Born in the small town of Colville, Washington, Mande Matthews grew up with a vivid imagination, finding solace in the realms of fantasy. Her love for storytelling took root at thirteen when she read Terry Brooks’s *The Sword of Shannara*, sparking a lifelong obsession with magical worlds. While studying writing and arranging at a performing arts college, she discovered Joseph Campbell’s *Masks of God* series, which fueled her desire to explore humanity through myth and legend. This blend of influences shaped her unique voice, blending epic fantasy with deep emotional resonance.
Matthews’s early career was eclectic—she optioned two screenplays, one to the executive producer of films like *The Seventh Sign*. Yet, her heart belonged to fantasy fiction, and she embraced indie publishing to bring her visions to life. A hermit at heart, she retreats into her imagination, supported by her husband and a menagerie of “mostly magical” pets, emerging to share stories that captivate readers worldwide.
Mande Matthews’s Unforgettable Stories
Matthews’s flagship work, the *ShadowLight Saga*, is a cornerstone of modern Norse-inspired fantasy. The series kicks off with *The Light Keepers*, a free prequel novelette introducing Astrid, a warrior maiden with forbidden shadow-walking powers. This short tale sets the stage for *Bonded*, the first full novel, where Astrid’s vow to protect her realm pits her against dark forces and forbidden love. *Broken* and *Shadow Born* continue the saga, weaving a tapestry of prophecy, betrayal, and Viking romance that keeps readers hooked.
Beyond the *ShadowLight Saga*, Matthews explores Arthurian legend in the *Queen’s Honor* series, starting with *Betrothal*. This romantic fantasy follows Lady Guinevere as she navigates love and power among Arthur and Lancelot, blending medieval intrigue with emotional depth. Her standalone novelette, *If Angels Whisper*, and contributions to anthologies like *The Spellbound Box Set* showcase her versatility, mixing vampires, werewolves, and Celtic myths with her signature magical flair.
Matthews’s style is immersive and cinematic, blending gritty action with heartfelt romance. Her heroines, like Astrid and Guinevere, are fierce yet vulnerable, reflecting her knack for crafting emotionally rich characters. Drawing on Campbell’s mythic structures, she creates worlds where light and shadow clash, inviting readers to ponder their own beliefs and choices.
Why Mande Matthews Matters
Mande Matthews’s work resonates with fans of epic fantasy and romance, offering a fresh take on Norse and Arthurian myths. Her ability to blend mythic archetypes with relatable characters has earned her a dedicated following and a place in notable fantasy anthologies alongside bestselling authors. With over a third of a million books in circulation, her stories have touched readers globally, inspiring them to embrace their inner strength and imagination.
As an indie author and artist, Matthews embodies creative freedom, proving that passion and persistence can carve a lasting legacy. Her therapeutic art projects, offered under her A. Matthews persona, further her mission to bring beauty and healing to the world, making her a unique voice in fantasy fiction.
- Born: Colville, Washington
- Key Works: *ShadowLight Saga* (*The Light Keepers*, *Bonded*, *Broken*, *Shadow Born*), *Queen’s Honor* (*Betrothal*, *Quest*), *If Angels Whisper*
- Awards: 2014 BTS Red Carpet Cover of the Year, 2016 Best Cover Contemporary Category
- Influences: Joseph Campbell, Terry Brooks, Marion Zimmer Bradley
About Mande Matthews
Snag *The Light Keepers* for free and dive into Mande Matthews’s spellbinding Norse fantasy! Whether you’re a fan of Viking warriors or Arthurian romance, her stories promise a magical escape you won’t forget.