Picture a Midwestern storyteller who spins quirky sci-fi tales with a dash of unicorns and physics—meet Naomi Hughes! This dynamic young adult author has captivated readers with her imaginative worlds and heartfelt characters, blending thrilling narratives with mental health representation. From her nomadic childhood to her standout novels, Hughes’s journey is as compelling as the stories she tells.
The Making of Naomi Hughes
Born in the U.S., Naomi Hughes grew up on the move, her family relocating every year or two for the sheer adventure of it. This nomadic lifestyle shaped her as a self-described 'raging introvert,' finding solace in books, particularly sci-fi and fantasy. Settling in the Midwest, where tornadoes and blizzards test her love for the region, Hughes discovered her passion for writing young adult fiction. Inspired by Neil deGrasse Tyson’s Cosmos and her own experiences with mental health, she began crafting stories that blend science, emotion, and whimsy.
Hughes’s writing career kicked off in her mid-20s during a period of joblessness and boredom—perfect conditions for creativity. After years of honing her craft through journalism, poetry, and unpublished manuscripts, she landed representation and published her debut novel, Afterimage, in 2018. Her persistence through rejection and rewrites reflects the resilience she instills in her characters.
Naomi Hughes’s Unforgettable Stories
Hughes’s novels are a vibrant mix of young adult sci-fi and fantasy, often featuring monsters, mental health themes, and unexpected twists. Her debut, Afterimage (2018), follows Camryn Kingfisher, a teen grappling with panic disorder after surviving a terrorist bombing. Paired with a mysterious transparent boy named Quint, Camryn unravels a conspiracy involving time and space. Critics praised its fast-paced plot and emotional depth, with School Library Journal noting it 'deserves a prominent place on sci-fi shelves.'
Refraction (2019), another standalone, dives into a dystopian world where mirrors unleash deadly monsters. Seventeen-year-old Marty Callahan, navigating OCD, runs an illegal mirror trade to find his brother, only to face exile and his deepest fears. Reviewers lauded its 'wild, fast-paced ride' (Kirkus Reviews) and thoughtful OCD representation, making it a standout for fans of dark sci-fi. Hughes’s upcoming works, like the 2022 Sundered Worlds Trilogy, promise more unicorn-infused adventures, showcasing her knack for blending quirky and gritty.
Known for her #ownvoices mental health portrayals, Hughes crafts protagonists who are heroes despite their struggles, avoiding clichéd 'magical cures.' Her love for physics shines through in intricate world-building, while her playful nod to unicorns adds a whimsical charm. Whether it’s a fog-shrouded city or a cosmic mystery, Hughes’s stories keep readers hooked with their emotional stakes and inventive premises.
Why Naomi Hughes Matters
Naomi Hughes has carved a niche in young adult fiction by blending high-stakes sci-fi with authentic mental health narratives. Her focus on invisible disabilities, like OCD and panic disorder, resonates with teens and adults alike, offering representation that feels real and empowering. As a school librarian in Minnesota, she inspires young readers and writers, proving that quirky, heartfelt stories can leave a lasting impact.
Hughes’s influence extends beyond her books. Through freelance editing at naomiedits.com and her candid social media presence, she mentors aspiring authors, sharing insights on perseverance and craft. Her ability to weave complex themes into accessible, thrilling tales makes her a rising star in YA literature, with fans eagerly awaiting her next release.
- Key Works: Afterimage (2018), Refraction (2019), Mercurial (2021)
- Fun Fact: Hughes is a knitter who crafts scarves when autumn hits.
- Current Role: School librarian in Minnesota
Snag Refraction or Afterimage and dive into Naomi Hughes’s thrilling, quirky sci-fi worlds—you won’t be able to put them down!