Picture a Seattle-born storyteller who weaves Greek mythology into heart-pounding young adult adventures—meet Raye Wagner! A USA Today bestselling author, Wagner transitioned from nursing to crafting the enchanting Sphinx series, captivating readers with tales of courage, romance, and mythical curses. Her stories, inspired by a lifelong love of fantasy, invite teens and adults alike to embrace their inner hero.
The Making of Raye Wagner
Born in Seattle, Raye Wagner grew up with a passion for stories, fueled by her seven siblings and escapes into fantasy worlds. Initially pursuing nursing, inspired by a fictional character, she practiced part-time while her love for young adult fiction blossomed. The Twilight saga and Percy Jackson series sparked her writing journey, leading her to pen her debut novel after a mythological epiphany about the Sphinx. Now living in Tennessee with her husband and three children, Wagner balances writing with family life, Tae Kwon Do, and beach trips.
Raye Wagner’s Unforgettable Stories
Wagner’s Sphinx series, starting with Cursed by the Gods (2015, also known as Curse of the Sphinx), follows Hope, a teenage Sphinx navigating a modern world ruled by Greek gods. This urban fantasy blends high school drama, romance, and mythology, with Hope battling Apollo’s curse and shadow demons. The series continues with Demigods and Monsters, where Hope infiltrates a conservatory, and Myths of Immortality, diving into the Underworld. The finale, Fates and Furies, explores fate and sacrifice. Wagner’s style, praised for its vivid world-building and realistic fight scenes drawn from her third-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, resonates with fans of Percy Jackson and Cassandra Clare.
Her prequel novella, Origin of the Sphinx, sets the stage with Phoibe, a demigod facing Olympian drama. Wagner’s clean romance and flawed, courageous protagonists shine, tackling themes of fate, love, and identity. Readers rave about her fresh take on Greek mythology, weaving ancient curses with modern stakes, making her books page-turners for mythology lovers.
Why Raye Wagner Matters
Raye Wagner’s impact lies in her ability to make Greek mythology accessible and thrilling for young readers. Her Sphinx series challenges teens to question fate and find courage, resonating with those navigating their own struggles. By blending myth with relatable coming-of-age themes, Wagner inspires readers to embrace their unique journeys. Her work, lauded by authors like Quinn Loftis, has carved a niche in YA urban fantasy, encouraging fans to explore their inner strength.
- Born: Seattle, Washington
- Key Works: Sphinx series (Cursed by the Gods, Demigods and Monsters, Myths of Immortality, Fates and Furies)
- Influences: Percy Jackson, Twilight
- Fun Fact: Holds a third-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do
Snag Cursed by the Gods and dive into Raye Wagner’s mythical world of monsters, demigods, and epic romance!