Picture a Canadian storyteller who spun a magical post-war London into existence—meet Shannon Fay! With her Marrowbone Spells duology, Fay crafts urban fantasy tales that blend cheeky charm, sharp social commentary, and a touch of rebellion. From her global adventures to her cozy Halifax life with a vocal cat, Fay’s unique journey fuels stories that captivate and inspire.
Born in the Year of the Rabbit, Fay’s imagination was sparked early, dreaming up tales of rocket ships and alien worlds. Her path to becoming an acclaimed author wasn’t a straight line, but her experiences— from Shanghai to London—shaped her vivid storytelling, making her a rising star in contemporary fantasy.
The Making of Shannon Fay
Shannon Fay’s creative roots trace back to her childhood, where fanciful stories filled her notebooks. Armed with a journalism degree, she honed her craft, but urban fantasy became her true calling. Her time at the Clarion West Writers Workshop in 2014 sharpened her skills, and her day job editing manga in K’jipuktuk/Halifax, Nova Scotia, adds a unique flavor to her narrative style. Living with her supportive partner and a fluffy white cat who’s her toughest critic, Fay’s life is as colorful as her stories.
Fay’s global travels, especially her transformative stint in London, deeply influenced her work. Arriving in 2015 with just a suitcase, she faced hardships—like a stolen bag and dwindling funds—that taught her resilience. Working at the National Portrait Gallery, she soaked up British history, which later infused her magical reimagining of 1950s London.
Shannon Fay’s Unforgettable Stories
Fay’s Marrowbone Spells duology is her crown jewel, starting with Innate Magic (2021). This debut follows Paul Gallagher, a cloth mage with illegal innate magic, navigating a class-divided, post-war London. With charm and wits, Paul’s journey explores identity and resistance, wrapped in a delightfully cheeky tone. The sequel, External Forces (2022), sees Paul crafting magical outfits for royalty while facing a power-hungry foe, deepening the series’ themes of justice and belonging.
Beyond the duology, Fay’s short story collection, Clever Bits (2015), showcases her speculative fiction prowess, offering glimpses into alternate realities and hidden pasts. Her work, known for its LGBTQ representation, weaves same-sex relationships into fantastical settings, earning praise for its fresh perspective. Fay’s style—playful yet poignant—draws readers into worlds where magic mirrors real-world struggles.
Her storytelling shines through meticulous world-building, inspired by her London days of bussing through the city and exploring free galleries. This grounding in reality makes her magical systems feel tangible, while her focus on marginalized voices adds depth and relevance.
Why Shannon Fay Matters
Shannon Fay’s impact lies in her ability to merge urban fantasy with social commentary, particularly for LGBTQ readers. Her Marrowbone Spells series offers a fresh take on class and identity, resonating with those who feel like outsiders. By centering diverse characters in a richly imagined world, Fay challenges genre norms and amplifies underrepresented voices.
Her global perspective and resilience—forged through personal hardships—make her stories relatable and inspiring. As a Clarion West alum and manga editor, she bridges cultures and genres, paving the way for new voices in fantasy. Fay’s growing fanbase eagerly awaits her next work, a testament to her rising influence.
- Born: Year of the Rabbit
- Key Works: Innate Magic (2021), External Forces (2022), Clever Bits (2015)
- Hobbies: Ice-skating, board games
- Fun Fact: Lives with a vocal, fluffy white cat
Ready to dive into a magical London? Snag Innate Magic and lose yourself in Shannon Fay’s enchanting urban fantasy!