Picture a storyteller who weaves music, magic, and sisterhood into spellbinding tales—meet S. Jae-Jones! Known as JJ, this American fantasy novelist has captivated readers with her lush, whimsical worlds and vibrant storytelling. From her New York Times bestselling debut Wintersong to her enchanting Guardians of Dawn series, JJ’s work invites you to lose yourself in richly imagined universes that hum with gothic charm and emotional depth.
Born and raised in sunny Los Angeles, JJ’s journey from adrenaline junkie to literary star is as colorful as her prose. With a knack for blending folklore, romance, and self-discovery, she’s carved a unique niche in young adult fantasy, earning praise from readers and critics alike.
The Making of S. Jae-Jones
Growing up in Los Angeles, JJ was a voracious reader who found solace in books and the outdoors. Her active lifestyle—think skydiving, rock-climbing, and taekwondo—infused her with a bold, adventurous spirit that shines through her writing. After studying English and Art History, she worked in finance and publishing, even serving as an editorial assistant at St. Martin’s Press. But it was her love for stories, sparked by childhood favorites like Harry Potter and His Dark Materials, that led her to pen her own novels. Now living in North Carolina, JJ balances her writing with her twin dogs, Castor and Pollux, and an ever-growing collection of hobbies.
S. Jae-Jones’s Unforgettable Stories
JJ’s debut, Wintersong (2017), is a gothic fantasy inspired by Labyrinth and Goethe’s Der Erlkönig. Set in 19th-century Bavaria, it follows Liesl, a composer drawn into the Underground to save her sister from the enigmatic Goblin King. Critics praised its lyrical prose and themes of music, love, and self-actualization, calling it “a joy for the senses.” Its sequel, Shadowsong (2018), deepens Liesl’s journey, exploring memory and sacrifice with haunting beauty.
In 2023, JJ launched the Guardians of Dawn series with Zhara, a vibrant fantasy blending Sailor Moon and Cinder. Set in an East Asian-inspired world, it follows Zhara, a magical heroine navigating love and chaos. Ami (2024) and the upcoming Yuli (2025) continue this effervescent saga, earning accolades like a Kids Indie Next Pick for their lush worldbuilding and charismatic casts. JJ’s style—whimsical, romantic, and emotionally resonant—creates stories that feel like a cozy blanket and a thrilling adventure all at once.
Why S. Jae-Jones Matters
S. Jae-Jones has redefined young adult fantasy by infusing it with diverse influences and unflinching heart. Her ability to weave music, mythology, and identity into her narratives resonates with readers seeking both escapism and depth. As a neurodivergent author with bipolar disorder and ADHD, JJ brings authenticity to her characters’ struggles, inspiring fans to embrace their own complexities. Her work, lauded by authors like Marie Lu, continues to enchant a global audience, cementing her as a vital voice in contemporary fantasy.
- Born: Los Angeles, California
- Key Works: Wintersong (2017), Shadowsong (2018), Zhara (2023), Ami (2024)
- Notable: New York Times bestselling author, Kids Indie Jobs Pick for Zhara
Ready to dive into a world of magic and music? Snag Wintersong or Zhara and let S. Jae-Jones’s whimsical fantasy sweep you away!