Picture a New York City storyteller who spins tales of teenage dreams and supernatural twists—meet Shani Petroff! This Young Adult (YA) author has won hearts with her witty, relatable novels, blending humor, romance, and a touch of magic. From the devilish charm of her Bedeviled series to the dystopian intrigue of Destined, Petroff’s stories capture the chaos and wonder of adolescence with a playful flair.
Based in the vibrant hustle of NYC, Petroff crafts narratives that resonate with teens and tweens, drawing them into worlds where crushes, friendships, and unexpected powers collide. Her ability to weave everyday struggles with fantastical elements has made her a standout in contemporary YA literature.
The Making of Shani Petroff
Shani Petroff’s journey to becoming a beloved YA author began in New York City, where she still resides. While little is known about her early life, her passion for storytelling shines through her multifaceted career. In addition to writing novels, Petroff has worked in television news, honing her ability to craft compelling narratives under pressure. This blend of media savvy and creative flair likely shaped her approachable, fast-paced writing style. Inspired by the energy of NYC and her love for books, boys, and TV, Petroff dove into YA literature, creating stories that feel like a chat with a best friend.
Shani Petroff’s Unforgettable Stories
Petroff’s bibliography is a treasure trove of YA and tween fiction, with her Bedeviled series leading the charge. Launched in 2009 with Daddy’s Little Angel, this four-book saga follows Angel Garret, a teen grappling with her father’s devilish powers. Sequels like The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Dress and Love Struck blend humor and heart, exploring themes of identity and family with a supernatural twist. Fans love the series for its lighthearted take on teenage dilemmas.
Co-authored with Darci Manley, the Destined series takes a darker turn. Ash (2015) and Ultraviolet (2017) dive into a dystopian world where destinies are pre-determined, following teens Madden and Dax as they challenge fate. Petroff’s standalone novels, like Romeo and What’s Her Name (2017), showcase her rom-com prowess. In this laugh-out-loud tale, Emily, an unprepared understudy, navigates a high school Shakespeare production and a crush on the dreamy Wes. Similarly, My New Crush Gave to Me (2017) delivers holiday romance with Secret Santa mishaps and hate-to-love sparks.
Petroff’s style is defined by snappy dialogue, relatable characters, and a knack for blending humor with deeper themes like self-discovery and resilience. Her stories often center on strong female protagonists who face chaotic situations—whether it’s demonic dads or dystopian governments—with grit and wit.
Why Shani Petroff Matters
Shani Petroff’s impact lies in her ability to make YA literature feel like a warm hug for her readers. Her stories resonate with teens navigating the messy, magical years of adolescence, offering both escapism and empowerment. By tackling universal themes through a fantastical lens, she creates a safe space for readers to explore their own identities. Petroff’s work with Macmillan’s Swoon Reads, a reader-driven imprint, highlights her connection with fans, who help shape her published novels.
In a crowded YA market, Petroff stands out for her versatility, moving seamlessly between paranormal, dystopian, and romantic genres. Her New York City roots infuse her stories with a vibrant, urban energy, making her a unique voice in the genre. Whether she’s writing as Shani Petroff or her pseudonym Shani Michelle, her stories leave a lasting impression.
- Born: Unknown, resides in New York City
- Key Works: Bedeviled series, Destined series, Romeo and What’s Her Name, My New Crush Gave to Me
- Fun Fact: Petroff also writes as Shani Michelle for thrillers like You Should Have Seen This Coming
Ready to dive into Shani Petroff’s world of witty heroines and supernatural shenanigans? Snag Romeo and What’s Her Name or Ash and get swept away by her irresistible YA charm!