Picture a storyteller who spun a galaxy-spanning saga from the rolling hills of Maine—meet Sharon Lee! Born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1952, Sharon Lee is the brilliant mind behind the Liaden Universe, a beloved science fiction series co-authored with her husband, Steve Miller. With a knack for blending space opera with romance and intricate world-building, Lee has enchanted readers for decades.
From her early days as a secretary to her rise as a celebrated author, Lee’s journey is as captivating as her stories. Her work, including solo mysteries and fantasy novels, reflects her love for Maine’s charm and her passion for crafting characters who leap off the page. Ready to explore her universe? Let’s dive in!
The Making of Sharon Lee
Sharon Lee, born Sharon Lee Backof on September 11, 1952, grew up in Baltimore, Maryland. A 1970 graduate of Parkville Senior High School, she later attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, while working as an administrative aide. Her early career was a whirlwind of roles—secretary, freelance reporter, photographer, and even tractor-trailer deliverer. In 1980, she married Steve Miller, a fellow writer, and their creative partnership began. By 1988, they relocated to Winslow, Maine, later moving to nearby Waterville in 2018, where Maine’s rugged beauty became a muse for Lee’s solo works.
Lee’s writing career kicked off with her first published story, “A Matter of Ceremony,” in Amazing Stories in 1980. Her diverse experiences shaped her storytelling, blending practicality with imagination. With Miller, she began crafting the Liaden Universe, a series that would define her legacy.
Sharon Lee’s Unforgettable Stories
The Liaden Universe, launched with Agent of Change in 1988, is Lee and Miller’s crown jewel. This sprawling space opera follows Clan Korval and other characters across a richly detailed galaxy, weaving action, romance, and cultural intrigue. The series, now boasting 27 novels, including the upcoming Diviner’s Bow (April 2025), is celebrated for its Regency-inspired romances and complex characters. Scout’s Progress (2001), a fan favorite, follows Aelliana Caylon’s journey to independence, blending heart and adventure.
Beyond the Liaden Universe, Lee’s solo works shine. Her Archers Beach trilogy—Carousel Tides (2010), Carousel Sun (2014), and Carousel Seas (2015)—is a contemporary fantasy set in a magical Maine amusement park, brimming with folklore and charm. She also penned two Maine-based mysteries, Barnburner and Gunshy, showcasing her versatility. Lee’s style is warm and immersive, with themes of honor, community, and cross-cultural connection running through her work.
Her collaboration with Miller extends to over 70 short stories and the Fey Duology (Duainfey and Longeye), blending fantasy with their signature storytelling. Lee’s ability to craft vivid worlds and relatable characters has earned her a loyal following.
Why Sharon Lee Matters
Sharon Lee’s impact on science fiction and fantasy is profound. The Liaden Universe, with over half a million books sold, has redefined space opera by blending romance, adventure, and intricate societal structures. In 2012, Lee and Miller received the Edward E. Smith Memorial Award for Imaginative Fiction, and in 2025, Lee was honored with the Robert A. Heinlein Award for her space-themed works. Her solo novels, rooted in Maine’s culture, have brought local folklore to a global audience.
Lee’s dedication to her craft and her protective stance on her intellectual property—she and Miller famously oppose fan fiction—highlight her commitment to her characters’ authenticity. Her stories resonate with readers who crave adventure, heart, and a touch of magic, making her a cherished voice in speculative fiction.
About Sharon Lee
- Born: September 11, 1952, Baltimore, Maryland
- Key Works: Liaden Universe series, Archers Beach trilogy, Barnburner, Gunshy
- Awards: Edward E. Smith Memorial Award (2012), Robert A. Heinlein Award (2025)
- Fun Fact: Lee and Miller’s cats often inspire their storytelling!
Snag Agent of Change or Carousel Tides and dive into Sharon Lee’s thrilling, heartfelt worlds today!