Picture a Utah storyteller who spun tales of fierce heroines and magical realms—meet Sara B. Larson! This bestselling young adult fantasy author captured hearts with her debut novel Defy, launching a career filled with epic adventures, swoony romances, and empowering stories. From scribbling in a Little Mermaid notebook as a child to crafting bestselling series, Larson’s journey is as inspiring as the worlds she creates.
Balancing life as a mother of four in Utah, Larson writes in stolen moments—late afternoons, quiet nights, or even during nap times. Her knack for multitasking, as her husband jokingly claims, deserves its own degree. With a sugar addiction she ‘repents’ for at the gym, Larson’s down-to-earth charm shines through, making her a relatable figure for fans and aspiring writers alike.
The Making of Sara B. Larson
Born and raised with a passion for storytelling, Sara B. Larson began writing as soon as she could hold a pen. Growing up, she filled notebooks with stories, dreaming of becoming an author. She attended Brigham Young University, briefly pursuing a different path, but her love for young adult fiction pulled her back. After her first child was born, her husband’s encouragement reignited her writing spark, leading to countless hours of crafting stories that would eventually become bestsellers.
Larson’s road to publication wasn’t easy. She faced years of rejections, switched agents, and poured her grief over a family member’s loss into her work. Her persistence paid off when Defy was published in 2014, marking the start of a prolific career. Inspired by her own experiences as the eldest of five sisters, Larson infuses her stories with themes of sisterhood, resilience, and self-discovery.
Sara B. Larson’s Unforgettable Stories
Larson’s books are known for their kick-butt heroines, intricate world-building, and heart-pounding romance. Her debut, Defy (2014), follows Alexa Hollen, a girl disguised as a boy in a king’s army, navigating danger and forbidden love in a war-torn jungle kingdom. The Defy trilogy (Defy, Ignite, Endure) blends action, political intrigue, and emotional depth, earning praise for its cinematic finales and strong female leads.
The Dark Breaks the Dawn duology (2017–2018), a reimagining of Swan Lake, showcases Larson’s ability to weave magic and betrayal into a fresh narrative. Her Sisters of Shadow and Light duology (2019–2020) explores the bond between sisters Zuhra and Inara, trapped in a magical citadel, with themes of love and sacrifice. Larson’s stories resonate with readers for their relatable characters and empowering messages, often addressing real-life struggles like grief and identity through a fantastical lens.
Her writing style is accessible yet vivid, appealing to both teens and adults. Larson’s heroines, like Alexa and Evelayn, are independent and resourceful, inspiring readers to embrace their own strength. Her knack for blending romance with high-stakes adventure has earned her a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, including Indie Next List selections and starred reviews.
Why Sara B. Larson Matters
Sara B. Larson’s impact on young adult fantasy lies in her ability to craft stories that empower and uplift. Her characters, often scarred or marginalized, show readers they are beautiful and capable, as seen in fan letters thanking her for Defy’s scarred heroine. By tackling themes like loss and self-discovery, Larson offers a safe space for teens to confront their own challenges, wrapped in the thrill of fantasy.
As a Utah author, Larson contributes to the state’s vibrant YA scene, alongside names like Shannon Hale and James Dashner. Her persistence through publishing struggles serves as a beacon for aspiring writers, proving that grit and passion can turn dreams into reality. Her stories, filled with sisterhood and courage, continue to inspire a new generation of readers to find their own magic.
- Key Works: Defy (2014), Dark Breaks the Dawn (2017), Sisters of Shadow and Light (2019)
- Hometown: Utah, USA
- Notable Trait: Writes during nap times and late nights
Snag Defy or Sisters of Shadow and Light and dive into Sara B. Larson’s thrilling young adult fantasy worlds today!