Picture a scientist by day, spinning tales of teenage triumphs and heartaches by night—meet Rachael Allen! This American author, with a PhD in neuroscience, crafts young adult novels that dive fearlessly into the messy, beautiful world of adolescence. From her debut 17 First Kisses to her bold Harley Quinn series, Allen’s stories resonate with readers craving honesty and heart.
With a knack for tackling tough topics like slut-shaming and rape culture, Allen’s work is both poignant and empowering. Her unique blend of scientific precision and storytelling magic has earned her the 2019 Georgia Young Adult Author of the Year award. Ready to explore the world of a writer who’s as adventurous as her characters? Let’s dive in!
The Making of Rachael Allen
Rachael Allen grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, where her love for stories and science took root. With a PhD in neuroscience, she spends her days researching how the eye can diagnose diseases like Alzheimer’s. But by night, she channels her passion for young adult literature, inspired by authors like Laurie Halse Anderson. Her early love for football and adventure—think flag football and global travels—infuses her writing with vibrant energy.
Allen’s writing journey began with a spark: the desire to craft stories that feel like stepping inside another person’s soul. Her debut, 17 First Kisses, published in 2014 by HarperTeen, marked her entry into the YA scene. Since then, she’s been unstoppable, balancing her scientific career with a prolific writing life, all while raising two kids and wrangling two sled dogs in Decatur, Georgia.
Rachael Allen’s Unforgettable Stories
Allen’s novels are a masterclass in blending raw emotion with sharp social commentary. Her debut, 17 First Kisses (2014), follows Claire as she navigates friendship, love, and a family tragedy through a series of kisses. It’s a sex-positive tale that celebrates exploration over fairy-tale endings, earning praise for its fresh take on romance.
In The Revenge Playbook (2015), four girls team up to take down their high school’s football team, tackling rape culture head-on. Allen’s unflinching prose and witty dialogue make it both hilarious and heart-wrenching. A Taxonomy of Love (2018), a Junior Library Guild selection, uses taxonomies to chart a boy’s journey with Tourette’s syndrome, blending humor and heartache. Her Harley Quinn trilogy—Reckoning (2022), Ravenous (2023), and Redemption (2024)—reimagines the iconic DC character with fierce, feminist flair.
Allen’s style is fearless, weaving themes of empowerment, identity, and resilience into fast-paced, richly detailed narratives. Her characters are relatable yet bold, often challenging societal norms with wit and grit. Whether it’s a girl reclaiming her power or a teen grappling with disability, Allen’s stories leave readers feeling seen and inspired.
Why Rachael Allen Matters
Rachael Allen’s impact on young adult literature lies in her courage to confront uncomfortable truths. By addressing issues like slut-shaming and gender inequality, she empowers teens to question toxic norms and embrace their authenticity. Her work, recognized as a 2018 Book All Young Georgians Should Read, resonates globally, with translations in German, Spanish, French, and Polish.
Allen’s dual life as a scientist and storyteller also inspires, showing that passion and purpose can coexist. Her stories don’t just entertain—they spark conversations, making her a vital voice in contemporary YA. For readers seeking stories that blend heart, humor, and hard-hitting reality, Allen delivers every time.
- Winner of the 2019 Georgia Young Adult Author of the Year award.
- Key works: 17 First Kisses, The Revenge Playbook, A Taxonomy of Love, Harley Quinn trilogy.
- Lives in Decatur, Georgia, with her husband, two children, and two sled dogs.
- Passionate about homemade peach ice cream and global adventures.
About Rachael Allen
Snag 17 First Kisses or dive into the Harley Quinn trilogy to experience Rachael Allen’s bold, heartfelt YA magic!