Picture an Australian storyteller who weaves angels, mystery, and heart-pounding romance into unforgettable tales—meet Rebecca Lim! A former lawyer turned literary star, Lim has captivated young adult readers with her unique blend of fantasy, sci-fi, and contemporary fiction. With over 20 books to her name, including the internationally acclaimed Mercy series, she’s a powerhouse whose stories resonate across cultures and languages.
Born in Singapore and raised in Australia after her family migrated in the 1970s, Lim’s journey from corporate law to award-winning author is as inspiring as her novels. Her work, translated into German, French, Turkish, and more, reflects her passion for diverse voices and authentic storytelling, making her a standout in the literary world.
The Making of Rebecca Lim
Rebecca Lim’s early life was shaped by her family’s move from Singapore to rural Queensland, where access to diverse stories was scarce. Growing up, she rarely saw characters who looked like her in books, fueling her determination to write inclusive narratives. A voracious reader of sci-fi and fantasy, Lim honed her craft while working as a commercial lawyer in Melbourne. Her leap into full-time writing came after years of balancing legal briefs with late-night storytelling, driven by a desire to create worlds where marginalized voices shine.
Co-founding the Voices from the Intersection initiative with Ambelin Kwaymullina, Lim has championed emerging authors from First Nations, People of Colour, and LGBTIQA+ communities. Her advocacy, paired with her legal background, gives her a unique perspective that infuses her work with depth and authenticity.
Rebecca Lim’s Unforgettable Stories
Lim’s bibliography is a treasure trove of genre-blending brilliance. Her Mercy series, a four-book saga, follows a fallen angel navigating love, betrayal, and cosmic battles. Praised for its “sinister and rather fabulous world” by The Age, the series has been longlisted for the David Gemmell Legend Award and celebrated for its gripping mix of romance and mystery. Tiger Daughter, a poignant contemporary novel, explores the struggles of a Chinese-Australian teen and won the CBCA Book of the Year for Older Readers and the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award.
The Astrologer’s Daughter, a Kirkus Best Book, blends thriller and mystery as a teen unravels her mother’s disappearance, showcasing Lim’s knack for taut, emotional narratives. Her latest, Two Sparrowhawks in a Lonely Sky, a historical fiction tale of Chinese-Australian siblings during Mao’s Great Leap Forward, earned the NSW Premier’s History Award. Lim’s style—vivid, empathetic, and layered with cultural nuance—draws readers into worlds where resilience and identity take center stage.
Whether crafting paranormal thrillers or grounded coming-of-age stories, Lim’s themes of belonging, courage, and diversity resonate deeply. Her ability to shift between genres while maintaining a distinct voice has made her a favorite among YA readers and critics alike.
Why Rebecca Lim Matters
Rebecca Lim’s impact extends beyond her books. Through her advocacy, she’s reshaping Australian literature to be more inclusive, ensuring young readers see themselves in stories. Her work challenges stereotypes, offering nuanced portrayals of Asian-Australian experiences and marginalized identities. Awards like the CBCA and Victorian Premier’s Literary honors underscore her influence, but it’s her ability to connect with readers—especially those who feel unseen—that cements her legacy.
As a co-editor of Meet Me at the Intersection, a groundbreaking YA anthology, Lim amplifies voices often sidelined in publishing. Her stories, rich with emotional truth, inspire empathy and resilience, making her a vital voice in global YA literature.
- Born: Singapore, migrated to Australia in the 1970s
- Key Works: Mercy, Tiger Daughter, The Astrologer’s Daughter, Two Sparrowhawks in a Lonely Sky
- Awards: CBCA Book of the Year, Victorian Premier’s Literary Award, NSW Premier’s History Award
- Languages: Translated into German, French, Turkish, Portuguese, Polish, Vietnamese, Russian
Ready to dive into a world of angels, courage, and unforgettable characters? Snag Tiger Daughter or Mercy and let Rebecca Lim’s storytelling sweep you away!