Picture an American storyteller who conjured werewolves, dragon-shifters, and magical realms with a bowl of popcorn by her side—meet Rita Stradling! A USA Today Bestselling Author, Rita crafts young adult and new adult paranormal romances that weave flawed characters into soulmate-driven tales. Her journey from a struggling reader to a self-published sensation is as enchanting as her stories, proving that passion and perseverance can turn dreams into reality.
With a knack for blending mythology, romance, and modern twists, Rita’s books captivate readers who crave immersive, heartfelt adventures. Her unique voice and vivid worlds have earned her a growing fanbase, making her a rising star in paranormal fiction.
The Making of Rita Stradling
Born with a love for stories, Rita’s childhood was shaped by her father’s nightly readings, sparking a lifelong passion for storytelling. Despite battling dyslexia and learning disabilities in the 1980s and 1990s—when support was scarce—her drive to tell stories pushed her to master reading and writing. A degree in Art History fueled her imagination, inspiring tales rich with medieval and modern influences. Living in Northern California with her husband, son, and puppy, Rita turned her novel addiction into a career, self-publishing her first book and never looking back.
Rita Stradling’s Unforgettable Stories
Rita’s works are a vibrant mix of paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and gaslamp fantasy, often featuring dragon-shifters, werewolves, and magical heroines. Her debut, The Deception Dance (2012), kicks off a thrilling trilogy where Raven Smith battles a demonic Marquis in a world of secrets and seduction. The series, praised for its twists and Christian mythology, sets the tone for Rita’s immersive style.
Ensnared (2017), a cyberpunk Beauty and the Beast retelling, follows Alainn, who trades places with an AI robot to save her father, finding unexpected romance with a scarred recluse. Fans love its sci-fi twist and emotional depth. The Grayhaven series, co-authored with Alexa B. James, starting with Escaping Monsters (2020), dives into a supernatural town where omega wolf Teagan navigates love and danger. Colorless (2017), a gaslamp fantasy set in a Regency-Victorian world, showcases Rita’s ability to craft unique magical systems.
Rita’s style shines through her flawed, relatable characters and belief in happily-ever-afters. Her stories blend intense romance, mythological depth, and fast-paced plots, appealing to readers who love emotional stakes and otherworldly settings.
Why Rita Stradling Matters
Rita’s impact lies in her ability to inspire. Overcoming learning disabilities to become a bestselling author, she shows that creativity can triumph over adversity. Her diverse stories—spanning paranormal, sci-fi, and fantasy—offer escapism and hope, resonating with young adult and new adult readers. By self-publishing, Rita has built a career on her terms, proving that independent authors can shine in a competitive industry.
Her focus on soulmates and love’s power to overcome obstacles strikes a chord, making her a beacon for readers seeking heartfelt, magical tales. As her fanbase grows, Rita’s influence in paranormal romance continues to soar.
- Born: United States
- Key Works: The Deception Dance, Ensnared, Escaping Monsters, Colorless
- Genres: Young Adult, New Adult, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
- Fun Fact: Rita has an all-consuming addiction to popcorn!
Ready to dive into a world of werewolves, magic, and romance? Snag Escaping Monsters and lose yourself in Rita Stradling’s spellbinding tales!