Picture a courtroom dynamo who swapped legal briefs for heart-pounding young adult thrillers—meet Rektok Ross! Writing under the pen name of Liani Kotcher, this former trial attorney has captivated readers with her gripping narratives and fierce female leads. Her debut novel, Ski Weekend, has snowballed into a fan favorite, blending survival drama with nostalgic teen vibes, all while Ross empowers creatives with her legal expertise.
Born in South Florida, Ross’s journey from law to literature is as thrilling as her stories. With a knack for crafting tales that resonate with teens and adults alike, she’s carved a unique niche in young adult fiction, proving that a pivot from the courtroom to the bookshelf can change the game.
The Making of Rektok Ross
Liani Gwen Kotcher, born May 1, 1980, grew up in a small South Florida town, where her mother, an elementary school teacher, sparked her love for reading. Roaming bookstore aisles and volunteering at libraries, young Liani dreamed of storytelling. She earned a journalism degree from the University of Florida and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami School of Law, diving into a high-flying career as an intellectual property attorney at a top global firm. Handling complex cases for Fortune 500 companies, she honed skills that later shaped her writing—precision, creativity, and a knack for high stakes.
A back injury sidelined her legal career, but it ignited her writing passion. Bedridden for two years, Ross took writing classes at Southern Methodist University and began crafting Ski Weekend. Her legal background gave her a unique edge, blending analytical rigor with emotional storytelling, and her pen name—Rektok (Kotcher backward) Ross (her mother’s maiden name)—honors her roots while embracing her bold new path.
Rektok Ross’s Unforgettable Stories
Ross’s novels are adrenaline-fueled escapes, packed with strong female protagonists, swoon-worthy romance, and life-or-death stakes. Her debut, Ski Weekend (2021), follows six teens stranded in a blizzard, battling nature and their own prejudices. Pitched as The Breakfast Club meets Alive, it’s a survival thriller that’s earned accolades from Cosmopolitan, Entertainment Weekly, and more, even landing a major motion picture deal. Its diverse cast and 80s-inspired nostalgia make it a standout.
Summer Rental (2023) channels 90s slasher vibes, with teens on a party island facing dark secrets and a missing friend. Ross’s love for horror and romance shines, drawing comparisons to R.L. Stine and Gillian Flynn. Prodigal (2013), a contemporary romance, hit number one on Amazon’s bestseller list, showcasing her versatility. Her style—fast-paced, emotionally intense, and layered with social commentary—hooks readers who crave both thrills and heart.
Ross’s storytelling isn’t just about scares; it’s about connection. Her characters grapple with stereotypes and personal growth, reflecting her belief in bridging differences. Whether it’s a snowy mountain or a sun-soaked island, her settings amplify the drama, making every page a pulse-pounding ride.
Why Rektok Ross Matters
Rektok Ross is more than a writer—she’s a trailblazer. Her transition from law to literature inspires aspiring authors, showing that it’s never too late to chase dreams. Through her blog and social media (@RektokRoss), she builds a vibrant community, hosting The Book Nook on Facebook and the Level Up Writers chat on Clubhouse. Her educational course, Copyright 101, empowers creatives to protect their work affordably, leveraging her legal expertise to demystify intellectual property.
In young adult fiction, Ross’s diverse casts and nuanced themes challenge stereotypes, resonating with readers navigating a divided world. Her awards—American Fiction Awards, Readers’ Favorite, and more—cement her growing influence. As Ski Weekend heads to the big screen, Ross’s star is rising, proving her stories are as timeless as they are timely.
- Born: May 1, 1980, South Florida
- Key Works: Prodigal, Ski Weekend, Summer Rental
- Awards: American Fiction Awards, Readers’ Favorite Book Awards, Firebird Award
- Fun Fact: Her dogs, Falkor and Blair Waldorf, are named after beloved fictional characters!
Snag Ski Weekend and dive into Rektok Ross’s thrilling world of survival, romance, and unforgettable teens!