Picture an American storyteller who spun a world of love, power, and rebellion in a single trilogy—meet Marie Rutkoski! Born in Illinois in 1977, this New York Times bestselling author of young adult fiction has captivated readers with her intricate plots and heart-wrenching characters. A professor at Brooklyn College by day, Rutkoski crafts stories that blend fantasy, romance, and political intrigue, making her a standout in contemporary YA literature.
From her breakout hit, The Winner’s Trilogy, to her ventures into adult fiction, Rutkoski’s work resonates with readers who crave depth and emotion. Let’s dive into her journey, from a book-loving kid to a literary star whose tales of star-crossed lovers keep us up all night.
The Making of Marie Rutkoski
Growing up in Bolingbrook, Illinois, as the eldest of four siblings, Marie Rutkoski was surrounded by stories. Her early love for books led her to the University of Iowa, where she earned a B.A. in English with a French minor in 1999. Her passion for literature deepened at Harvard University, where she completed her M.A. and Ph.D. by 2006, specializing in Shakespeare. Living in Moscow and Prague after college sparked her imagination, and a fellowship in London inspired her first novel, The Cabinet of Wonders. Today, she balances teaching Renaissance drama and creative writing at Brooklyn College with her writing career, living in Brooklyn with her family and two cats, Cloud and Firefly.
Marie Rutkoski’s Unforgettable Stories
Rutkoski’s storytelling shines in The Winner’s Trilogy, a young adult fantasy series that began with The Winner’s Curse (2014). Set in a war-torn empire, it follows Kestrel, a general’s daughter, and Arin, a slave she impulsively buys, as they navigate love and betrayal. The trilogy, including The Winner’s Crime (2015) and The Winner’s Kiss (2016), is praised for its rich world-building and themes of power and sacrifice. Fans adore its slow-burn romance and political intrigue, earning it starred reviews from Kirkus and YALSA Best Book nods.
Beyond the trilogy, Rutkoski’s Kronos Chronicles, starting with The Cabinet of Wonders (2008), blends magic and adventure for younger readers. Her 2020 novel, The Midnight Lie, an LGBTQ+ romantic fantasy set in the same world as The Winner’s Trilogy, explores freedom and identity. In 2022, she debuted in adult fiction with Real Easy, a literary crime novel drawing on her experience as a former dancer, showcasing her versatility. Her upcoming novel, Ordinary Love (June 2025), promises more emotional depth.
Rutkoski’s style is marked by lyrical prose, complex characters, and morally gray choices. Whether crafting forbidden love or gritty crime, she weaves emotional stakes into every page, making her stories linger long after the final chapter.
Why Marie Rutkoski Matters
Marie Rutkoski’s impact on young adult literature lies in her ability to tackle heavy themes—love, power, and identity—with nuance and heart. The Winner’s Trilogy redefined YA fantasy by prioritizing character-driven storytelling over magical systems, inspiring authors and readers alike. Her inclusive narratives, like the queer romance in The Midnight Lie, resonate with diverse audiences, while her adult fiction expands her reach. As a professor, she shapes future writers, cementing her legacy in both academia and literature.
Her work has garnered accolades, including Amazon Best Book of the Year and a New York Times Best Crime Novel nod for Real Easy. Rutkoski’s stories remind us that even in fictional worlds, human struggles are universal, making her a vital voice in modern storytelling.
- Born: March 5, 1977, in Hinsdale, Illinois
- Key Works: The Winner’s Trilogy, The Midnight Lie, Real Easy
- Awards: Amazon Best Book of the Year, Kirkus Best Teen Book
- Fun Fact: She can tie a double figure-eight knot!
Snag The Winner’s Curse and dive into Marie Rutkoski’s spellbinding world of romance and rebellion!