Picture a Kansas storyteller who rockets readers across 1,001 planets with a snarky, space-faring hero—meet Rebecca Coffindaffer! This rising star in young adult science fiction has captured hearts with their thrilling 'Crownchasers' series, blending vivid world-building, relatable characters, and high-stakes adventure. With a knack for crafting stories that are both exhilarating and thought-provoking, Coffindaffer is carving a vibrant path in sci-fi literature.
Born and raised in a household brimming with dragons, fairies, and epic tales like Star Wars and Star Trek, Coffindaffer’s imagination was destined for the stars. Now, they’re a celebrated author whose tales of spaceships, politics, and slow-motion explosions are leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
The Making of Rebecca Coffindaffer
Growing up in Kansas, Rebecca Coffindaffer (they/she) was steeped in fantasy and sci-fi from an early age. Their parents fueled their creativity with Lord of the Rings read-alouds and screenings of The Dark Crystal, fostering a love for magical, far-off worlds. This vibrant upbringing shaped their storytelling, blending whimsy with gritty adventure. After waiting in vain for secret elemental powers to manifest, Coffindaffer turned to writing, channeling their passion for epic narratives into stories about bold heroines and cosmic quests.
Their writing journey wasn’t instant stardom—they faced rejections, with an earlier YA sci-fi novel failing to find a publisher due to a lack of character voice. Undeterred, Coffindaffer honed their craft, landing an agent and eventually signing with HarperTeen for the 'Crownchasers' duology, a testament to their resilience and evolving talent.
Rebecca Coffindaffer’s Unforgettable Stories
Coffindaffer’s debut, 'Crownchasers' (2020), is a high-octane space opera following Alyssa Farshot, a reluctant heir thrust into a deadly race across the galaxy to claim the imperial throne. With its fast-paced plot, witty banter, and themes of duty versus freedom, the novel earned praise as a love letter to sci-fi, drawing comparisons to The Hunger Games and Guardians of the Galaxy. Its sequel, 'Thronebreakers' (2021), deepens the stakes with darker tones, exploring grief, guilt, and galactic upheaval.
Beyond the duology, Coffindaffer penned 'The Bloody and the Damned,' an action-packed heist featuring a nonbinary assassin, Val, navigating betrayal and redemption. Their short stories in anthologies like 'Mermaids Never Drown' and 'Critical Role: Stories Untold' showcase their versatility, weaving magic and intrigue across genres. Coffindaffer’s style is marked by voice-driven narratives, diverse characters, and richly imagined worlds, from ghostdocks to hyperlight lanes, making every planet hop a thrilling ride.
Their work tackles complex themes—friendship, identity, and the cost of power—while keeping readers hooked with snarky humor and emotional depth. Alyssa’s sarcastic yet empathetic voice, for instance, resonates with teens navigating their own responsibilities, making Coffindaffer a standout in YA sci-fi.
Why Rebecca Coffindaffer Matters
Rebecca Coffindaffer’s impact lies in their ability to reinvigorate YA sci-fi, a genre some publishers once deemed fading. 'Crownchasers' proved them wrong, delivering diverse, inclusive casts and queer relationships normalized without fanfare, reflecting a galaxy where love is love. Their stories inspire young readers to embrace their inner rogues, blending adventure with introspection on leadership and sacrifice.
As a nonbinary author, Coffindaffer brings authenticity to their morally gray characters, broadening representation in sci-fi. Their growing fanbase and critical acclaim signal a lasting legacy, with more stories on the horizon to expand their universe. In a genre built on imagining futures, Coffindaffer is a bold voice shaping its present.
- Key Works: 'Crownchasers' (2020), 'Thronebreakers' (2021), 'The Bloody and the Damned'
- Hometown: Kansas, USA
- Pronouns: They/she
- Fun Fact: They’re a tabletop gaming enthusiast!
Snag 'Crownchasers' and blast off into Rebecca Coffindaffer’s thrilling sci-fi universe—adventure awaits!