Picture a British storyteller who spun tales of rebellion and romance in vibrant, Asian-inspired worlds—meet Natasha Ngan! This New York Times bestselling author of young adult fantasy and sci-fi has captivated teens with her lush prose and diverse characters. From her multicultural roots to her Paris adventures, Ngan’s journey is as fascinating as the stories she tells.
The Making of Natasha Ngan
Born in 1990 in St Albans, Hertfordshire, Natasha Ngan grew up straddling two worlds: the UK and Malaysia, where her Chinese-Malaysian mother’s family hails from. This vibrant blend of cultures shaped her storytelling, infusing her work with rich, diverse perspectives. A geography graduate from the University of Cambridge, specializing in cultural geography, Ngan explored intercultural relations—a passion that later fueled her novels. Before writing full-time, she dabbled as a fashion blogger, social media consultant, and yoga teacher, bringing a unique flair to her creative path.
Natasha Ngan’s Unforgettable Stories
Ngan’s debut novel, The Elites (2013), introduced readers to Silver, a warrior with genetically superior DNA navigating a divided city. Inspired by Philip Reeve’s Mortal Engines, the sci-fi tale tackles racism and identity with a fast-paced plot. Her follow-up, The Memory Keepers (2014), set in a futuristic London where memories are currency, explores love and loss through a memory thief’s eyes. Ngan’s breakout came with the Girls of Paper and Fire trilogy (2018–2021), a fantasy epic set in Ikhara, where concubines Lei and Wren defy a Demon King in a sapphic romance. Praised for its lush worldbuilding and feminist themes, the series addresses sexual assault, homophobia, and empowerment, drawing from Ngan’s Chinese-Malaysian heritage and personal experiences as a sexual abuse survivor.
Her writing style is cinematic, blending lyrical prose with heart-pounding action. Ngan’s worlds feel alive, steeped in cultural details like Malaysian foods and traditions, yet accessible to a global audience. Themes of resistance, identity, and love resonate deeply, making her stories both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Why Natasha Ngan Matters
Natasha Ngan’s impact lies in her commitment to diversity and representation. By centering Asian-inspired narratives and LGBTQ+ romances, she offers teens mirrors to see themselves and windows to other cultures. Her unflinching exploration of trauma and empowerment equips young readers to navigate a complex world. As a mixed-race author, Ngan bridges East and West, enriching YA fantasy with fresh voices. Her New York Times bestseller status and devoted fanbase prove her stories resonate widely.
- Born: 1990, St Albans, Hertfordshire
- Key Works: The Elites, The Memory Keepers, Girls of Paper and Fire trilogy
- Notable Achievement: New York Times bestseller for Girls of Paper and Fire
- Fun Fact: She’s a yoga teacher and loves gaming!
Snag Girls of Paper and Fire and dive into Natasha Ngan’s spellbinding fantasy worlds!