Picture a Colorado storyteller who weaves history, mystery, and a dash of the paranormal into unforgettable young adult novels—meet Sherry Ficklin! A former military brat turned full-time author, Ficklin’s vibrant imagination and knack for blending historical drama with relatable emotions have captivated readers worldwide. Her bestselling Stolen Empire trilogy, a decadent dive into the world of Catherine the Great, is just one gem in her diverse literary crown.
With a large white hot chocolate in one hand and a towering stack of books in the other, Ficklin is a familiar sight in her local bookstore—unless she’s on deadline, when she vanishes like a mythical creature. Her journey from a childhood love of reading to crafting thrilling tales for teens is as inspiring as her stories.
The Making of Sherry Ficklin
Born into a military family, Sherry Ficklin’s early life was shaped by constant travel and exposure to diverse cultures. Growing up as a military brat, she developed a curiosity about the world, which later fueled her richly detailed novels. Her passion for storytelling bloomed in childhood, inspired by classic young adult novels and a growing fascination with mystery, thriller, and paranormal genres. After settling in Colorado, Ficklin transitioned from writing enthusiast to full-time author, driven by a determination to create magical worlds for a new generation.
Her career took off with her debut novel, Foresight, in 2010, but it was her ability to weave historical fiction with emotional depth that truly set her apart. Living in Colorado with her husband, four kids, two dogs, and an ever-changing number of chickens, Ficklin balances family life with her creative pursuits, often drawing inspiration from her surroundings and her love of history.
Sherry Ficklin’s Unforgettable Stories
Ficklin’s bibliography is a treasure trove of young adult fiction, spanning historical drama, paranormal romance, and thrilling mysteries. Her most celebrated work, the Stolen Empire trilogy, follows young Sophie, who becomes Catherine the Great, navigating love, betrayal, and political intrigue in 18th-century Russia. The series, comprising Queen of Someday, Queen of Tomorrow, and Queen of Always, is praised for its lush historical detail and Sophie’s transformation from a vulnerable princess to a formidable empress.
Beyond historical fiction, Ficklin excels in paranormal and mystery genres. Chasing Daybreak, the first in her Dark of Night series, introduces Isabel Stone, a vampire navigating a murder mystery with a ghostly twist. Her steampunk series, Lost Imperials, co-written with Tyler H. Jolley, blends time travel and adventure, showcasing her versatility. Ficklin’s writing style is cinematic, blending fast-paced plots with emotional depth, making her stories resonate with teens and adults alike.
Her ability to craft strong, relatable heroines—whether a future empress or a vampire sleuth—sets her apart. Ficklin’s novels often explore themes of resilience, identity, and sacrifice, wrapped in a thrilling package that keeps readers turning pages late into the night.
Why Sherry Ficklin Matters
Sherry Ficklin’s impact on young adult literature lies in her ability to make history accessible and thrilling for modern readers. Her Stolen Empire series has introduced countless teens to the complexities of Catherine the Great’s era, blending historical accuracy with fictional flair. Her paranormal and mystery novels, meanwhile, offer a fresh take on beloved genres, appealing to readers who crave strong female leads and unexpected twists.
As a professional speaker at major conventions and co-host of the Pop Lit Divas radio show, Ficklin engages with her audience beyond the page, inspiring aspiring writers and connecting with fans. Her dedication to her craft and her warm, approachable persona have earned her a loyal following, cementing her as a beloved figure in young adult fiction.
- Birthplace: United States, raised in a military family
- Key Works: Stolen Empire trilogy, Chasing Daybreak, Extracted
- Fun Fact: Ficklin loves alpacas and reading to her baby goats!
Snag Queen of Someday and dive into Sherry Ficklin’s thrilling world of history and heart-pounding adventure!