Picture a spirited American storyteller who brought swashbuckling pirate adventures to life with a fierce female twist—meet Tricia Levenseller! Hailing from a small town in Oregon, this young adult novelist has captured readers’ hearts with her thrilling tales, most notably the Daughter of the Pirate King series. With a knack for crafting strong heroines and high-seas escapades, Levenseller blends romance, fantasy, and adventure into stories that feel like a treasure hunt on every page.
Now living in Utah with her delightfully bossy dog, Rosy, Levenseller’s vivid imagination and love for powerful women have made her a standout voice in YA literature. Ready to dive into her world of cunning pirates and magical sirens? Let’s set sail!
The Making of Tricia Levenseller
Born and raised in Oregon, Tricia Levenseller grew up climbing trees and weaving make-believe stories, planting the seeds for her future as a writer. Inspired by the strong women in her life—her mother, grandmother, and aunt—she developed a passion for creating bold, complex female characters. After earning a bachelor’s degree in English Language and Editing, she bid farewell to textbooks and dove into writing full-time. Her early love for fantasy, historical dramas, and even jigsaw puzzles shaped her vibrant storytelling style, which sparkles with wit and adventure.
Levenseller’s journey to publication wasn’t without storms. Her breakout novel, Daughter of the Pirate King, was the fourth book she wrote, but the first to hit shelves in 2017. Drawing from her fascination with pirates like the legendary Ching Shih, she crafted a tale that turned the pirate genre on its head, proving she was destined to make waves in YA fiction.
Tricia Levenseller’s Unforgettable Stories
Levenseller’s novels are a thrilling blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure, often centered on fierce heroines who carve their own paths. Her debut, Daughter of the Pirate King, introduces Alosa, a cunning pirate captain on a mission to steal a treasure map. Packed with sword fights, siren magic, and a slow-burn romance with the charming first mate Riden, this duology (completed by Daughter of the Siren Queen) has sold nearly a million copies and earned praise for its feminist edge and Pirates of the Caribbean-esque energy.
Beyond pirates, Levenseller’s standalone novels like The Shadows Between Us showcase her versatility. This sly romantasy follows Alessandra, a cunning noblewoman plotting to marry and murder a king, only to find love complicates her schemes. Her Bladesmith duology, starting with Blade of Secrets, dives into magical weaponry and sisterly bonds, while Vengeance of the Pirate Queen, a companion to her pirate series, spotlights the assassin Sorinda on a high-stakes rescue mission. Levenseller’s style—witty, fast-paced, and brimming with morally gray characters—keeps readers hooked, with plots that twist like a ship in a storm.
Her research into historical figures like Ching Shih and her knack for blending humor with danger make her stories both immersive and empowering. Whether it’s sirens singing deadly songs or a scheming queen outwitting her foes, Levenseller’s worlds celebrate women who are unapologetically fierce.
Why Tricia Levenseller Matters
Tricia Levenseller has redefined the YA fantasy landscape by putting strong, flawed, and fiercely independent women at the helm. Her heroines, like Alosa and Alessandra, resonate with readers who crave stories of empowerment without sacrificing romance or adventure. With translations in over 20 languages and a passionate fanbase, her work has brought the Golden Age of Piracy to a new generation, proving that women can rule the seas—and the page.
Levenseller’s impact extends beyond her books. By championing diverse crews and complex female leads, she inspires young readers to embrace their own strength and cunning. Her ability to weave historical inspiration with fantastical flair has cemented her as a beloved voice in YA literature, with fans eagerly awaiting her next adventure.
- Born: Oregon, USA
- Key Works: Daughter of the Pirate King, The Shadows Between Us, Blade of Secrets, Vengeance of the Pirate Queen
- Hobbies: Jigsaw puzzles, volleyball, gaming, and snacking on extra-buttered popcorn
Ready to embark on a high-seas adventure or scheme with a cunning queen? Grab Daughter of the Pirate King and dive into Tricia Levenseller’s thrilling world of YA romantasy!