Picture a Canadian storyteller who weaves intricate fantasy worlds from a cozy farmhouse in the Maritimes—meet Victoria Goddard! With a PhD in Medieval Studies and a knack for crafting vivid, character-driven tales, Goddard has enchanted readers since her debut in 2014. Her sprawling Nine Worlds universe, brimming with magic and mischief, has made her a standout in contemporary fantasy literature.
The Making of Victoria Goddard
Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Canada, Victoria Goddard grew up across the North, Prairies, and Maritimes, with a dash of global influence from her parents’ teaching stint in Papua New Guinea. Her academic journey led her to a PhD from the University of Toronto, where she delved into the poetry and philosophy of Dante and Boethius. This medieval fascination, paired with a love for languages and cultures, shaped her richly textured storytelling. A gardener, cheesemonger, and Anglican church sexton in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Goddard’s eclectic life infuses her work with warmth and authenticity.
Victoria Goddard’s Unforgettable Stories
Goddard’s literary career kicked off with The Tower at the Edge of the World (2014), launching her expansive Tales of the Nine Worlds series. This universe, anchored by the Fall of the Empire of Astandalas, connects multiple series like Greenwing & Dart, a cozy fantasy-mystery blend following Jemis Greenwing’s adventures in Ragnor Bella. Stargazy Pie (2016), the series’ opener, introduces Jemis’s knack for unraveling secrets with wit and literary savvy. The Hands of the Emperor (2018) is a fan favorite, weaving bureaucracy and epic friendship in a tale of cultural reclamation. Goddard’s style—layered with philosophy, humor, and intricate world-building—creates accessible yet profound narratives that linger with readers.
Her interconnected series, including The Sisters Avramapul and The Red Company Reformed, showcase her ability to blend swashbuckling adventure with introspective depth. Goddard’s characters, from daring scholars to reluctant heroes, shine through her poetic prose, drawing inspiration from her medieval studies and love of human creativity. Each story feels like uncovering a hidden world, making her books perfect for readers who crave both action and emotional resonance.
Why Victoria Goddard Matters
Victoria Goddard’s impact lies in her ability to push fantasy beyond traditional tropes, crafting stories that celebrate friendship, fealty, and the beauty of ordinary lives in extraordinary settings. Her Nine Worlds series has garnered a global following, with fans praising her character-driven narratives and cozy yet epic scope. By blending medieval influences with diverse cultural perspectives, Goddard offers a fresh voice in fantasy, inspiring readers to find magic in the everyday. Her work, available through libraries and platforms like Amazon and Kobo, continues to grow in influence, proving that indie authors can leave a lasting mark.
- Birthplace: Sault Ste. Marie, Canada
- Key Works: The Hands of the Emperor, Stargazy Pie, The Tower at the Edge of the World
- Notable Fact: Has walked the length of England (2013)
Ready to dive into a world of magic and mischief? Snag Stargazy Pie or The Hands of the Emperor and discover Victoria Goddard’s captivating fantasy today!