Picture a Canadian storyteller who spun a queer, feminist selkie tale into a haunting debut—meet Rose Sutherland! Born in rural Nova Scotia with a voracious appetite for books, Sutherland’s journey from theater stages to pastry kitchens has shaped her into a unique voice in historical fantasy. Her novel, A Sweet Sting of Salt, blends gothic dread with tender romance, capturing hearts worldwide.
With an imagination as wild as the Nova Scotian coast, Sutherland’s eclectic life infuses her writing with authenticity and charm. From falling off a roof while reenacting Anne of Green Gables to crafting niche Victor Hugo jokes online, she’s a delightful mix of whimsy and depth, making her a rising star to watch.
The Making of Rose Sutherland
Rose Sutherland grew up in rural Nova Scotia, devouring every book she could find. Her childhood was filled with creative escapades, like the infamous roof incident inspired by her love for Anne of Green Gables. This boldness carried her to New York City, where she studied theater, immersing herself in character-driven storytelling. Later, she apprenticed at a pâtisserie in France and moonlighted as an usher and bartender in Toronto, collecting experiences that enrich her vivid prose.
Her writing journey reignited during her pastry chef days, when isolation from odd hours pushed her back to the page. Inspired by her coastal roots and a Tumblr post about selkies testifying at the UN, Sutherland found her calling in reimagining folklore with a queer lens, blending her love for history and human connection.
Rose Sutherland’s Unforgettable Stories
Sutherland’s debut, A Sweet Sting of Salt (2024), is a sapphic retelling of the Celtic selkie wife folktale set in 1830s Nova Scotia. The story follows Jean, a midwife, who uncovers dark secrets about her neighbor’s mysterious wife, Muirin. Their slow-burn romance unfolds against a windswept, gothic backdrop, with prose that evokes the salty air and rugged shores. Critics praise its feminist twist and emotional depth, calling it a “mesmerizing debut” (The Washington Post).
While A Sweet Sting of Salt remains her sole published novel to date, Sutherland’s storytelling shines through her meticulous world-building and complex characters. Her style weaves historical detail with subtle magic, exploring themes of autonomy, queer love, and cultural identity. Fans eagerly await her next work, expecting more folklore-inspired tales that challenge traditional narratives.
Sutherland’s background in theater and culinary arts informs her sensory-rich descriptions, from the crunch of snow underfoot to the warmth of a hearthside tea. Her ability to craft dialogue that dances around hidden truths adds tension and authenticity, making her characters feel like old friends—or enigmatic strangers.
Why Rose Sutherland Matters
Rose Sutherland’s impact lies in her ability to breathe new life into ancient stories, centering queer and marginalized voices in historical settings. A Sweet Sting of Salt challenges the often-tragic selkie myth, offering a narrative of empowerment and love that resonates with modern readers. Her focus on queer representation in 19th-century contexts dismantles the myth that such stories didn’t exist, providing a hopeful, inclusive lens on the past.
As a Nova Scotian, Sutherland’s work is a love letter to her homeland, capturing its wild beauty and cultural diversity. Her debut has sparked conversations about folklore’s relevance today, earning her a dedicated following and critical acclaim. With her fresh perspective, Sutherland is carving a niche in historical fantasy, inspiring readers to seek out their own stories of connection and courage.
- Birthplace: Nova Scotia, Canada
- Key Work: A Sweet Sting of Salt (2024)
- Fun Fact: She dreams of owning a large dog, chickens, and maybe a goat!
Snag A Sweet Sting of Salt and dive into Rose Sutherland’s lush, heartfelt world of queer folklore and coastal magic!