Picture a Pakistani American storyteller who spun a time-loop fantasy that’s equal parts thrilling and heartfelt—meet Zeba Shahnaz! Bursting onto the young adult fantasy scene with her 2023 debut, Midnight Strikes, Shahnaz crafts worlds brimming with political intrigue, twisted romance, and just the right dash of existential angst. Her stories don’t just entertain; they pull you into a whirlwind of emotion and adventure, leaving you eager for more.
With a knack for weaving her cultural roots and academic prowess into spellbinding narratives, Shahnaz has quickly become a voice to watch in YA fantasy. Let’s dive into her journey, from a New Jersey dreamer to a celebrated author who’s redefining the genre.
The Making of Zeba Shahnaz
Growing up in New Jersey, Zeba Shahnaz was surrounded by stories—ones she read, watched, and eventually created. A proud Pakistani American, she channeled her love for storytelling into a history undergraduate degree and a master’s in South Asian studies, where she explored national identity, culture, and cinema. This academic foundation shaped her unique lens, blending rich cultural insights with fantastical narratives. Her early years were marked by a voracious appetite for fantasy and sci-fi, with influences like Leigh Bardugo and Naomi Novik fueling her imagination. Writing was always her calling, but it was in 2018, after years of abandoned projects, that she began crafting what would become her breakout novel.
Zeba Shahnaz’s Unforgettable Stories
Shahnaz’s debut, Midnight Strikes, published in 2023, is a masterclass in YA fantasy. The novel follows Anaïs, a 17-year-old outsider at a glittering royal ball, trapped in a nightmarish time loop where an explosion kills everyone at midnight. With each reset, Anaïs must unravel the mystery behind the attack, teaming up with the roguish Prince Leo. Shahnaz’s storytelling shines through her intricate worldbuilding, inspired by a Spanish-influenced fantasy setting, and her exploration of themes like prejudice, identity, and resilience. Critics praised its pacing and Anaïs’s gritty determination, with Kirkus Reviews calling it “riveting, time-looping fun.”
Beyond Midnight Strikes, Shahnaz is reportedly working on new projects, though details remain under wraps. Her style is unmistakable: lush prose, complex characters, and a knack for balancing heart-pounding action with emotional depth. She tackles heavy topics—oppression, colonization, and self-discovery—while keeping the tone accessible and engaging. Her ability to craft side characters, like Anaïs’s friend Gaspard, adds richness to her worlds, making every page feel alive.
Shahnaz’s narratives often reflect her Pakistani American identity, subtly weaving themes of cultural duality and belonging into her work. This authenticity resonates with readers, especially those seeking diverse voices in fantasy. Her stories aren’t just escapism; they’re a mirror and a window, inviting readers to see themselves and others in new ways.
Why Zeba Shahnaz Matters
Zeba Shahnaz’s impact lies in her ability to elevate underrepresented voices in fantasy. As a Pakistani American author, she brings fresh perspectives to a genre often dominated by Western narratives. Her exploration of colonized identities, as seen in Anaïs’s Proensan heritage, sparks conversations about power and privilege. Readers and critics alike celebrate her for creating heroines who are resourceful and relatable, like Anaïs, who fights not just for survival but for justice.
Shahnaz’s debut has inspired aspiring writers, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, showing that perseverance can turn dreams into reality. Her journey—penning a 150,000-word draft and revising it relentlessly—proves that storytelling is as much about grit as it is about talent. As she continues to write, Shahnaz is poised to leave a lasting mark on YA fantasy, one twisty, magical tale at a time.
- Key Work: Midnight Strikes (2023)
- Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
- Hometown: New Jersey
- Social Media: Follow her on Twitter (@zaybashah) and Instagram (@zaybashahwrites)
Ready to get lost in a world of magic and mayhem? Snag Midnight Strikes and dive into Zeba Shahnaz’s unforgettable YA fantasy!