Picture a New England storyteller who spun a magical tale of faeries and prophecies right from the heart of Boston—meet Skylar Dorset! This Providence-born author has enchanted young adult readers with her Otherworld series, a delightful blend of urban fantasy and coming-of-age adventure. Her debut novel, The Girl Who Never Was, introduced the world to Selkie Stewart, a half-faerie princess navigating a world of secrets and destiny, and it’s no wonder fans are hooked on Dorset’s whimsical storytelling.
With a knack for crafting vivid worlds and relatable characters, Dorset has carved a unique niche in YA fantasy. Her stories, rich with humor and heart, invite readers to explore the magic hidden in everyday places. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this rising star!
The Making of Skylar Dorset
Born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, Skylar Dorset’s imagination was sparking from a young age. At seven, she penned her first story about feuding squirrel factions—a furry twist on Romeo and Juliet with a dash of espionage! A true New Englander, she stayed close to her roots, graduating from Boston College and later earning a law degree from Harvard. Before becoming a full-time author, Dorset worked as an attorney in Boston, often scribbling ideas for her novels during subway commutes. Her love for Boston’s quirky charm and history became a cornerstone of her storytelling, grounding her fantastical tales in a relatable setting.
Dorset’s transition to writing was fueled by a lifelong passion for the characters “living in her head.” She’s described her mind as a crowded, noisy place filled with drama and adventure, and her ability to share these stories has delighted readers. Her New England upbringing, paired with stints in New Orleans and Washington, D.C., added layers of cultural texture to her work.
Skylar Dorset’s Unforgettable Stories
Dorset’s Otherworld series is her crowning achievement, a captivating blend of faerie lore, romance, and suspense. Her debut, The Girl Who Never Was (2014), follows Selkie Stewart, a Boston teen who discovers she’s a half-faerie princess destined to either save or destroy the supernatural world. Critics praised its “Alice in Wonderland meets Neverwhere” vibe, with snappy dialogue and vivid descriptions of Boston’s streets. The novel’s fast-paced plot and Selkie’s relatable journey of self-discovery make it a standout in YA fantasy.
The series continues with The Boy with the Hidden Name, deepening Selkie’s adventure with twists and a richly built faerie court. Dorset also penned two novellas, The Girl Who Kissed a Lie and The Girl Who Read the Stars, which expand the Otherworld universe with new characters like Merrow, a star-reading teen with rainbow hair. Dorset’s writing shines for its quirky formality and emotional depth, balancing humor with themes of family, loyalty, and identity. Her ability to flip clichés, like prophecies, keeps readers guessing.
Dorset’s style draws comparisons to Holly Black and Laini Taylor, yet her Boston-centric world-building feels uniquely her own. She excels at creating characters you want to root for—Selkie’s wit, Ben’s mysterious charm, and the quirky aunts steal the show. Her stories resonate with teens and adults alike, offering a magical escape grounded in real-world emotions.
Why Skylar Dorset Matters
Skylar Dorset’s impact lies in her ability to make the fantastical feel personal. Her Otherworld series has earned a dedicated following for its fresh take on faerie lore, blending urban settings with mythical stakes. By centering stories on strong, relatable female protagonists like Selkie and Merrow, Dorset empowers young readers to embrace their own identities and destinies. Her work has been lauded for its inclusivity, with subtle nods to diverse characters and relationships, like Merrow’s lesbian adoptive family in The Girl Who Read the Stars.
Though still an emerging voice, Dorset’s influence is growing. Her books have sparked discussions among YA fans about the power of family and self-discovery, and her vivid settings have made Boston a magical destination for readers. As she continues to write, Dorset’s whimsical yet heartfelt storytelling promises to leave a lasting mark on the genre.
- Born: Providence, Rhode Island
- Key Works: The Girl Who Never Was, The Boy with the Hidden Name, The Girl Who Kissed a Lie, The Girl Who Read the Stars
- Fun Fact: Dorset dreams of owning a dog and keeps a cardboard cutout of the Tenth Doctor at home!
Ready to get lost in a world of faeries and Boston charm? Snag The Girl Who Never Was and dive into Skylar Dorset’s enchanting YA fantasy today!