Picture a storyteller who fled the Soviet Union as a child, only to weave fantastical worlds in English—meet Vera Nazarian! Born in Moscow in 1966, this Armenian-Russian-American author is a singular voice in speculative fiction, blending myth, adventure, and her multicultural heritage into stories that captivate readers worldwide.
From refugee to Nebula Award finalist, Nazarian’s journey is as compelling as her novels. Her ability to craft vivid, imaginative tales—infused with Armenian humor and Russian depth—has earned her a devoted following. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this remarkable writer!
The Making of Vera Nazarian
Born to an Armenian father and Russian mother, Vera Nazarian’s early life was a whirlwind. At eight, she fled the Soviet Union during the Cold War, traveling through Lebanon, Greece, and Italy before landing in the United States in 1976. Settling in Los Angeles, she mastered English and began writing, selling her first story, 'Wound in the Moon,' at 17 to Marion Zimmer Bradley’s anthology Sword and Sorceress II. This early success marked the start of a prolific career.
After graduating from Pomona College with degrees in English and Psychology, Nazarian balanced a tech job by day and writing by night. Her multicultural roots and love for languages—Russian, Armenian, Spanish, and more—shaped her storytelling, infusing it with a sense of wonder and ancient myth.
Vera Nazarian’s Unforgettable Stories
Nazarian’s work spans fantasy, science fiction, and mythpunk, often weaving moral fables and lush world-building. Her debut novel, Dreams of the Compass Rose (2002), is a 'collage novel' reminiscent of The One Thousand and One Nights, with interlinked tales exploring truth and illusion. Critics praised its vivid imagery and mythological depth.
Lords of Rainbow (2003) transports readers to a colorless world where a warrior seeks to restore hue, blending epic fantasy with philosophical undertones. The Atlantis Grail series, starting with Qualify (2014), is a YA dystopian hit, optioned for film, where teens compete for survival against an asteroid threat. Nazarian’s humorous side shines in her Supernatural Jane Austen Series, like Mansfield Park and Mummies (2009), mixing Regency romance with monsters and wit.
Her style is lyrical yet accessible, drawing on her Armenian-Russian heritage to create characters who grapple with identity, love, and destiny. Whether crafting high-stakes sci-fi or playful parodies, Nazarian’s stories resonate with universal themes wrapped in fantastical settings.
Why Vera Nazarian Matters
Vera Nazarian’s impact lies in her ability to bridge cultures and genres, offering readers escapist yet thought-provoking tales. As a double refugee, her stories of resilience and hope reflect her own journey, inspiring readers to embrace their unique identities. Her work with Norilana Books also amplifies diverse voices in speculative fiction.
A two-time Nebula Award finalist and 2018 Dragon Award finalist, Nazarian’s influence extends beyond awards. Her fans adore her intricate worlds and heartfelt characters, making her a beloved figure in fantasy and sci-fi communities. Her Armenian sensibility—optimistic, curious, and creative—infuses her work with a timeless appeal.
About Vera Nazarian
- Born: May 25, 1966, in Moscow, Soviet Union
- Key Works: Dreams of the Compass Rose, Lords of Rainbow, The Atlantis Grail series
- Awards: Two-time Nebula Award Finalist, 2018 Dragon Award Finalist
- Fun Fact: She’s fluent in Russian and Armenian and has studied Mandarin Chinese!
Ready to explore new worlds? Snag Qualify from The Atlantis Grail series and dive into Vera Nazarian’s thrilling blend of sci-fi and adventure!