Picture a storyteller who conjures magic from the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest—meet Rachel Griffin! A New York Times bestselling author, Griffin crafts young adult novels that blend enchanting magical realism with urgent themes like climate change. Her spellbinding debut, The Nature of Witches, and its successors have captivated readers worldwide, earning her a devoted following among YA fantasy fans.
Born and raised in the lush landscapes of Washington, Griffin’s deep love for nature infuses every page she writes. When she’s not penning tales of witches and wild magic, you can find her mentoring aspiring authors, hiking through towering evergreens, or sipping tea by a cozy fire.
The Making of Rachel Griffin
Rachel Griffin’s journey to authorship began in the Pacific Northwest, where moody skies and thunderstorms sparked her imagination. A graduate of Seattle University with a Bachelor of Science in diagnostic ultrasound, she spent five years in healthcare before transitioning to a small startup. Yet, her childhood dream of writing never faded. At age ten, she listed “write a book and have it published” as her top goal, a vision that came to life through dedication and mentorship in programs like Pitch Wars, where she honed her craft under established authors.
Griffin’s connection to nature, from the rugged mountains to the churning ocean, shaped her storytelling. Her love for the environment, coupled with a fascination for weather, inspired her to weave climate change into her narratives, making her work both timely and timeless.
Rachel Griffin’s Unforgettable Stories
Griffin’s debut, The Nature of Witches (2021), introduces Clara Densmore, an Everwitch whose magic ties to all four seasons. Set in a world where witches control the climate but are losing their grip, the novel blends lush prose with a poignant message about environmental responsibility. Critics, including Shea Ernshaw, praised its “masterfully told” blend of nature and magic, calling it a “love letter to the earth.”
Her second novel, Wild is the Witch (2022), follows Iris Gray, a teenage witch racing to undo a dangerous curse. Set against the drizzly Pacific Northwest, this enemies-to-lovers tale sparkles with vivid outdoor settings and romantic tension. Griffin’s third book, Bring Me Your Midnight (2023), explores forbidden love and duty through Tana Fairchild, a witch navigating a politically charged alliance. Each work showcases Griffin’s signature style: lyrical writing, intricate magic systems, and characters who grapple with self-acceptance and love.
Known for her atmospheric settings and emotional depth, Griffin draws comparisons to Shea Ernshaw and Adrienne Young. Her ability to intertwine climate activism with magical realism has made her a standout in YA fantasy, resonating with readers who crave both escapism and relevance.
Why Rachel Griffin Matters
Rachel Griffin’s impact extends beyond her enchanting stories. By centering climate change in her novels, she invites young readers to reflect on their relationship with the planet. Her diverse characters, including bisexual protagonist Clara and Korean American love interest Sang, champion inclusivity in YA literature. Griffin’s mentorship in Pitch Wars since 2017 also nurtures the next generation of writers, cementing her influence in the literary community.
Her work has sparked conversations about environmental stewardship and self-discovery, earning accolades from outlets like the New York Times and School Library Journal. As a Pacific Northwest native, Griffin’s love for her region shines through, inspiring readers to find magic in the world around them.
- Born: Pacific Northwest, USA
- Key Works: The Nature of Witches (2021), Wild is the Witch (2022), Bring Me Your Midnight (2023)
- Fun Fact: Griffin dreams of vampires settling in Washington!
Snag The Nature of Witches and dive into Rachel Griffin’s magical world of nature, love, and spellbinding adventure!