Picture a Canadian storyteller who conjures dark, magical worlds with a twist of humor—meet M.K. Lobb! This rising star in Young Adult fantasy has captivated readers with her thrilling narratives and complex characters. Her debut, Seven Faceless Saints, and its sequel, Disciples of Chaos, have cemented her as a fresh voice in the genre, blending mystery, romance, and rebellion in a way that keeps you hooked.
Born and raised in small-town Ontario, Lobb’s journey from political science scholar to fantasy author is as intriguing as her stories. With a knack for weaving dark aesthetics and sharp wit, she’s quickly become a must-read for fans of immersive YA fantasy.
The Making of M.K. Lobb
M.K. Lobb grew up in the quiet corners of Ontario, where her imagination thrived amidst the simplicity of small-town life. She pursued political science at the University of Western Ontario and the University of Ottawa, even landing a job in Canada’s federal parliament. But her heart was elsewhere—scribbling stories during breaks, researching literary agents, and dreaming of publication. After years of persistence, Lobb signed with a literary agent in 2020, and her debut novel sold the following year. Her background in politics infuses her work with themes of power, corruption, and rebellion, making her stories resonate with readers who crave depth.
M.K. Lobb’s Unforgettable Stories
Lobb’s debut, Seven Faceless Saints (2023), introduces the city of Ombrazia, where saints and disciples wield terrifying power. This YA fantasy thriller follows Rossana, a rebel disciple, and Damian, a scarred security captain, as they navigate a murder mystery and a corrupt system. Praised for its ‘searing romantic tension’ and ‘thrilling twists,’ it earned a Kids’ Indie Next Pick and a Barnes & Noble Children’s & YA Book Awards shortlist spot. Its sequel, Disciples of Chaos (2024), dives deeper into the rebellion, amplifying the stakes and chemistry between its leads.
Her third novel, To Steal from Thieves (March 2025), promises a high-stakes heist with an alchemist and a con man teaming up to steal a rare necklace. Lobb’s style shines through her dark, atmospheric worlds, witty dialogue, and nuanced characters who grapple with grief, faith, and love. Her ability to blend enemies-to-lovers romance with gritty fantasy elements has drawn comparisons to Leigh Bardugo, making her a standout in the romantasy subgenre.
Lobb’s stories don’t shy away from heavy themes—PTSD, systemic injustice, and moral ambiguity are woven seamlessly into her plots. Yet, her humor and heart keep the tone accessible, appealing to both teens and adults who love a story with bite.
Why M.K. Lobb Matters
M.K. Lobb’s impact lies in her ability to craft YA fantasy that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. Her focus on flawed, relatable characters and corrupt systems resonates with readers navigating their own complex worlds. By championing diverse, authentic storytelling, she’s helping redefine romantasy, pushing for inclusivity in a genre often criticized for its lack of diversity. Her growing fanbase and critical acclaim signal a bright future, with each book expanding her influence in the literary world.
- Born: Ontario, Canada
- Key Works: Seven Faceless Saints (2023), Disciples of Chaos (2024), To Steal from Thieves (2025)
- Genres: Young Adult Fantasy, Romantasy
- Awards: Kids’ Indie Next Pick, Barnes & Noble Children’s & YA Book Awards Shortlist
Ready to lose yourself in a dark, magical adventure? Snag Seven Faceless Saints and dive into M.K. Lobb’s thrilling YA fantasy world!