Picture a marine biologist turned fantasy maestro, weaving tales of magic and adventure—meet Susan Dennard! Born in Georgia in 1984, this New York Times bestselling author swapped ocean expeditions for epic storytelling, captivating young adult readers with her vivid worlds and fierce heroines. From zombies in Victorian Philadelphia to elemental witches in the Witchlands, Dennard’s books are a thrilling ride.
With a master’s degree in marine biology and a knack for global exploration, Dennard’s unique journey infuses her work with a sense of wonder and authenticity. Her series, like Something Strange and Deadly and Witchlands, blend heart-pounding action with deep friendships and slow-burn romance, earning her a devoted fanbase and a TV deal with the Jim Henson Company.
The Making of Susan Dennard
Susan Dennard grew up in Dalton, Georgia, dreaming of castles and battling humidity. Initially set on studying English at the University of Georgia, she pivoted to science, earning degrees in fisheries, statistics, and marine biology. Her master’s took her across six continents, studying overfishing and tidal pools. In 2009, she left her PhD dreams to join her French husband in Germany, where she began writing. Her love for storytelling, sparked by childhood tales for her sister, blossomed into a full-time career.
Susan Dennard’s Unforgettable Stories
Dennard’s debut, Something Strange and Deadly (2012), is a steampunk zombie adventure set in 1876 Philadelphia. Heroine Eleanor Fitt joins a ghost-busting squad to save her brother, facing necromancers and supernatural chaos across three novels and a prequel novella, A Dawn Most Wicked. The series is packed with historical flair, witty banter, and spine-chilling stakes.
Her Witchlands series, starting with Truthwitch (2016), is a high-fantasy epic about witches with elemental powers. Best friends Safiya (a Truthwitch) and Iseult (a Threadwitch) navigate empires, war, and betrayal. With five books, including Witchshadow (2021) and the upcoming Witchlight (2025), the series is lauded for its intricate world-building and fierce female leads. It’s also in development for a TV adaptation.
The Luminaries trilogy, beginning with The Luminaries (2022), dives into a secret society of monster hunters. Dennard’s style—rich with magic, layered characters, and vivid settings—draws from her scientific curiosity and global travels, making every story feel alive and immersive.
Why Susan Dennard Matters
Susan Dennard’s impact on young adult fantasy is undeniable. Her strong, complex heroines inspire readers, while her worlds—rooted in her marine biology background—feel uniquely real. Through her newsletter, Misfits and Daydreamers, she mentors aspiring writers, sharing tips on crafting novels and navigating publishing. Her ability to blend science, adventure, and magic has carved a niche in YA literature, and her growing fanbase eagerly awaits her next tale.
- Born: February 25, 1984, in Virginia, raised in Georgia
- Key Works: Something Strange and Deadly, Witchlands, Luminaries
- Notable: New York Times bestselling author, Witchlands TV adaptation in development
Ready to explore magical worlds and fierce heroines? Grab Truthwitch and dive into Susan Dennard’s spellbinding fantasy!