Picture a Georgia-born storyteller who weaves epic tales of queens, magic, and sisterhood—meet Rebecca Ross! A celebrated author of young adult fantasy, Ross captured hearts with her debut novel, The Queen’s Rising, a Renaissance-inspired saga that blends passion and political intrigue. Her vivid worlds and heartfelt characters have made her a beloved voice in fantasy literature, with fans spanning the globe.
With a knack for crafting stories as vibrant as the wildflowers in her Northeast Georgia garden, Ross’s journey from a voracious reader to a #1 New York Times bestselling author is as enchanting as her novels. Let’s dive into her life, works, and the magic she brings to young adult fantasy.
The Making of Rebecca Ross
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Rebecca Ross grew up as the eldest of six siblings, surrounded by books and a longing for Narnia-like adventures. Her love for stories by Jane Austen, C.S. Lewis, and Juliet Marillier shaped her imagination. After earning a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Georgia, Ross explored diverse paths—working at a Colorado dude ranch, serving as a school librarian, and even captioning live college lectures. These experiences infused her writing with authenticity, from rugged landscapes to the quiet wisdom of libraries.
Ross’s writing career began with a leap of faith. Inspired by folklore like East o’ the Sun, West o’ the Moon, she penned her first novel, a Beauty and the Beast retelling, before crafting The Queen’s Rising. That debut, written in just 48 days, changed her life, launching her into the literary spotlight.
Rebecca Ross’s Unforgettable Stories
Ross’s novels are a masterclass in world-building, blending lyrical prose with intricate plots and fierce female characters. Her debut, The Queen’s Rising (2018), follows Brienna, a young woman navigating a world of passions—art, music, dramatics, wit, and knowledge—to uncover a hidden royal legacy. Inspired by Renaissance France, the duology, completed with The Queen’s Resistance (2019), is praised for its clean romance and compelling political intrigue.
The Letters of Enchantment duology, starting with Divine Rivals (2023), is a historical fantasy gem. It tells the story of rival journalists Iris and Roman, whose magical letters spark love amid a war between gods. Its sequel, Ruthless Vows, deepens the emotional stakes. Ross also shines in standalone novels like Sisters of Sword & Song (2020), a Greek mythology-inspired tale of two sisters bound by loyalty, and Dreams Lie Beneath (2021), a haunting story of magicians and curses.
Her writing style is immersive, with vivid landscapes and emotionally rich characters. Ross avoids clichéd love triangles, focusing instead on slow-burn romance, sisterhood, and personal growth, making her stories resonate with teens and adults alike.
Why Rebecca Ross Matters
Rebecca Ross has carved a unique space in young adult fantasy, where her female-led stories challenge stereotypes and celebrate resilience. Her works, translated into 13 languages including Spanish, Portuguese, and German, have reached readers worldwide, earning starred reviews and a devoted following. By centering her worlds around passions rather than traditional magic systems, Ross offers a fresh take on fantasy, inspiring readers to embrace their own creativity.
Her influence extends beyond books. Ross engages fans through social media, sharing glimpses of her writing process and garden-inspired musings, fostering a community of readers who feel connected to her worlds. As she continues to write, her legacy as a storyteller who uplifts and enchants grows ever stronger.
- Born: Atlanta, Georgia
- Key Works: The Queen’s Rising, Divine Rivals, Sisters of Sword & Song, Dreams Lie Beneath
- Influences: Jane Austen, Juliet Marillier, Melina Marchetta
- Fun Fact: Ross is a coffee addict with a love for vintage typewriters.
Ready to lose yourself in a world of queens and magical letters? Grab The Queen’s Rising or Divine Rivals and dive into Rebecca Ross’s spellbinding fantasy!