Media Kit
Susan Dennard is the award-winning, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Luminaries trilogy, the Witchlands series (now in development for TV from the Jim Henson Company), and the Something Strange and Deadly series—as well as the upcoming The Executioners Three. Her books have been translated into many languages all over the world.
Before becoming an author, she got to travel globally with her M.Sc. in marine biology. She also runs the popular newsletter for writers, the Misfits and Daydreamers. When not writing or teaching writing, she can be found reading, playing with her toddler, or mashing buttons on one of her way too many consoles.
To learn more about her, sign up for her fan newsletter, her writing advice newsletter, or follow her on Instagram.
Praise for the Luminaries series
“Will draw you in and leave you begging for more. Rich with tension, atmosphere, and finesse, you’ll want to get lost in the world of The Luminaries again and again.”
– Leigh Bardugo, #1 New York Times bestselling author
“The Luminaries is a chilling, gripping contemporary fantasy set in the heavily forested–and haunted–town of Hemlock Falls…Winnie, a nervous teeth-clicker and glasses-shover, is tremendously likable.”
– Starred Review, Shelf Awareness
“Plentiful action, terrifying monsters, and a kind, courageous heroine.”
– Publishers Weekly
“I lost myself from page one in Hemlock Falls and its deadly forest, as vicious as it is inescapably alluring. Winnie Wednesday is the sort of outcast-turned-monster-hunter you can’t help loving and rooting for, even as you become convinced that the nightmares she faces will probably never let her go. Where is the next book?!”
– Marissa Meyer, #1 NYT bestselling author
“Susan Dennard’s newest series is both wildly fun and truly captivating. Impossible to put down, The Luminaries will lead you on a twisted trail that will have you gasping to the very end.”
– Kailey Steward, Barnes & Noble in Oak Brook, IL
“Touching and gore-spattered, a real gem.”
– The Daily Mail
“The Luminaries is exactly the thrilling, dangerous, heart-pounding fantasy I needed, with an incredibly original world and a heroine who knows and fights for her worth. Prepare yourself accordingly―I devoured this in a single sitting.”
– Marie Lu, #1 NYT bestselling author
“The Luminaries is your next obsession. Part family drama, part fantasy procedural, part helpful guide to monster hunting, all with a dash of romantic tension―this book is all my favorite things combined.”
– Olivie Blake, NYT bestselling author
“The Luminaries will transport you to an stunning atmospheric world full of forests, friendship, monsters, and family. Winnie is fighting to become who she is meant to be and will inspire you to do the same. I was completely swept away to Hemlock Falls and I never wanted to leave!”
– Meghan Vanderlee, Schuler Books in Grand Rapids, MI
“Dennard’s newest begins with a triumphant success, heralding her third sensational series filled with delectable worldbuilding and dynamic characters.”
– Buzzfeed
“Dennard’s newest is overflowing with action, adventure, and mystery with a sprinkling of romance that will keep readers turning the page.”
– Booklist
“Readers will want to don a motorcycle jacket and join the nightmare hunt.”
– Kirkus Review
“In The Luminaries, bestselling author Susan Dennard kicks off a darkly magical, action-packed new series and introduces a mysterious world filled with monsters. . . . Plenty of gasp-inducing thrills, monstrous gore and empathetic soul-searching―plus a little tentative flirting―bring The Luminaries to a satisfying conclusion.
– BookPage
“You know the feeling of excitement when you’re at the very top of the first hill on a roller coaster looking down? That’s how I feel after reading the cliffhanger!”
– Jenna Arter, The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines, NC
“Enthralling from the first page, The Luminaries lures you into a misty darkness rife with thrills and romance. Living nightmares may stalk across the pages, but this book is a paranormal fantasy dream. The forest calls, and you will love every second of devouring its mysteries.”
– Alexandra Bracken, #1 NYT bestselling author
“A richly realized tale about monster hunters that explores family, community, and a whole lot of female rage.”
– Paste
“Supernatural mysteries, family secrets, lies, terrifying monsters, loyal friends, and budding romance had me staying up all night to finish this YA contemporary dark fantasy. I need the next installment immediately!”
– Jess Holleran, Copper Dog Books in Beverly, MA
“What a delight to be back in the world of the Luminaries with Winnie, Erica and #UghJay. I loved everything about Hemlock Falls – the eerie forest, nightmare monsters, fast paced action, family secrets – and cheered for Winnie as she chased her dream of joining the Luminaries against all odds. Told in pitch perfect style, once I started reading I could not put it down.”
– Angela Mann, Kepler’s Books in Menlo Park, CA
Praise for the Witchlands series
“There is a sureness to [Dennard’s] writing, a seamless understanding of what makes a solid fantasy, and two feisty heroines who are able and willing to save themselves rather than be saved. Fantasy readers will sink comfortably into this world, and await with pleasure the next installment.”
– Booklist
“Truthwitch has it all, strong female characters, adventure, magic, romance, and non-stop action that will leave you breathless!”
– Maria V. Snyder, NYT Bestselling Author
“…emotionally charged continuation of the Witchlands series…complicated politics and personal relationships [are] full of surprises. Readers will want nothing more than to see Safi and Iseult reunited in the midst of the action and mystery that carries this story at a fast clip.”
– RT Book Reviews
“A fantasy saga for the feminist generation.”
– Hypable
“Worldbuilding after my own heart. So good it’s intimidating.”
– Victoria Aveyard, NYT Bestselling Author
“Truthwitch by Susan Dennard is so, so, so great – epic fantasy, epic adventure, epic friendship.”
– Kate Elliott, NYT Bestselling Author
“Dennard is a talented juggler, and readers may gasp for breath from the pace, but she doesn’t let anyone slip through the cracks. She sets scenes so skillfully that the descriptions of the geography become immersive, and the characters continually develop along familiar lines. The plentiful action in this exciting fantasy almost makes it feel like one is in a multiplayer online game.”
– Booklist on Windwitch
“Sometimes, from not even halfway through a book, you know that you’re going to make everyone you know read it. It’s a book that, by the time you get to the end you crave the next book as if it were the most addicting chocolate on the planet. Truthwitch is that book for me. Gorgeously written, elegantly built, and perfect for ANY reader–Truthwitch is something you will not want to miss. Seriously.”
– Rachel Strolle, Anderson’s Bookshop
“To me [Windwitch] as a whole is the perfect sequel to Truthwitch! Our knowledge of The Witchlands grows as we explore new places and we’re introduced to new characters who will entice you. Windwitch is unputdownable and unforgettable it’ll leave you wanting more. It is the perfect blend of action, suspense, heartbreak, shocking and swoon worthy moments. It’ll keep you coming back for more.”
– Melissa Lee, Blue Bunny Books
“A world you’ll want to inhabit forever!”
– Alexandra Bracken, NYT Bestselling Author
“Two devoted friends dreaming of independence contend with unfathomable magic and the schemes of empires in this action-packed series opener…Epic adventure and steamy smooches make for a crowd-pleasing formula.”
– Kirkus Reviews
“Full of intriguing, complex characters and innovative plot elements–not to mention some pretty rockin’ action scenes–this was a story I couldn’t put down. I highly recommended it to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy thriller, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the series!”
– Bethany Ayres, Schuler’s Books
“Susan Dennard’s Truthwitch is a wildly original adventure full of fantasy, legend and political intrigue. But better than all of that is the fiercely loyal friendship of Safiya and Iseult. These two young women are simply amazing and, maybe, just maybe, they are destined to change the world!! I cannot wait for more of this epic story!”
– Laura Donahoe, Malaprop’s
“Get ready…because Bloodwitch is going to blow your mind. The Witchlands series is back with higher stakes, new tricks and a deeper dive into this already epic world. Readers are in for a treat as more of the world is explored and Dennard continues to dazzle with nonstop action, beautifully crafted characterization and stunning prose. Fantasy at its best as the last page leaves your adrenaline pumping, heart broken and a yearning for more!”
– Katie Stutz, Anderson’s Bookshop
Starred Review. “…Dennard’s rich descriptions, insightful characterizations, and breathtaking action sequences will keep readers on their toes.”
– Publisher’s Weekly
“Truthwitch has all of the elements I savor–a richly imagined magical world, ruthless politics, steamy romance, and characters who grab you and won’t let go. At its heart, a partnership between two strong young women who might change the world.”
– Cinda Williams Chima, NYT Bestselling Author
“Featuring vibrant characters and an innovative system of magic, Susan Dennard’s Truthwitch is a fast-paced adventure and a wonderful tribute to the power of the binding ties of friendship.”
– Jacqueline Carey, NYT Bestselling Author
“From the first page, Bloodwitch sucked me back into the incredibly immersive world of the Witchlands! It’s hard to find a book in which I can’t wait to read every character perspective, but with these characters — each connected by threads of friendship, love, and loyalty — I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next! Placed in Dennard’s stunning world and amidst her compelling plot, they had my heart racing and oozing emotions! Bloodwitch is the best Witchlands book yet! If you have yet to journey to Dennard’s world… well, what are you waiting for?”
– Meghan Vanderlee
“Full of magic, unbreakable friendships, and purpose, Truthwitch is absolutely everything I look for in a fantasy. Dennard’s stunning prose weaves a lush and wonderful adventure tale that has already hooked this reader and will utterly enchant everyone else.”
– Gaby Salpeter, Books of Wonder
“Truthwitch by Susan Dennard is like a cake stuffed full of your favorite fantasy treats: highway robbery, swordplay, deep friendships, treachery, magic, piracy on the high seas, and romance. If you like any or all of the above in the fantasy tales, this book will delight you.”
– Robin Hobb, NYT Bestselling Author
“This is an all-action, white knuckle adventure that kept me enthralled from the first page. Beautifully written, brimming with magic, and all about the power of friendship – don’t miss this one.”
– Angela Mann, Kepler’s Bookshop
“Truthwitch is a fast-paced and quick-witted story of magic and international intrigue. Dennard weaves the threads that connect the characters and their unique abilities into a complex but never tangled pattern of power, friendship, and magical awakening. Give Truthwitch to readers who love vast world building and fantasy novels with equal parts humor and high stakes.”
– Tirzah Price, Great Lakes Book & Supply
“Brace yourselves for this heart pounding, gut wrenching, spellbinding third installment to the Witchlands. You may even need to stop and catch your breath.”
– Melissa Lee, Bluebunny Books on Bloodwitch
Praise for the Something Strange & Deadly series
“Mystery, romance, humor, action, a sure-fire setting: Dennard delivers.”
– Kirkus Reviews
“Thrilling, charming, and dark, Something Strange & Deadly is a delicious sandwich of harmonious flavors. I fell for Daniel, I soaked in the zombie mayhem with glee, I delighted in the steampunk fashion and gadgetry. If you enjoyed Clockwork Angel, you’ll love this. Fantastical fun.”
– Marie Lu, NYT Bestselling Author
“[A Darkness Strange & Lovely is] enjoyable as a stand-alone, but will especially thrill fans of Something Strange and Deadly.”
– School Library Journal
“From the first page, readers will be awakened to an 1876 Philadelphia replete with animated corpses, irresistible romance and a game of intrigue. Those who enjoy Cassandra Clare’s the Infernal Devices series will be spellbound by Dennard’s macabre and impressive debut.”
– Shelf Awareness
“Give [Something Strange & Deadly] to anyone who likes a light zombie story with a pinch of romance.”
– School Library Journal
“Something Strange and Deadly as a captivating and empowering thriller.”
– Huffington Post
“[A Darkness Strange & Lovely is] fast paced and entertaining.”
– Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)
“Realistic characters, compelling action sequences and an entertaining, twisty plot will delight.”
– RT Book Reviews
“Blending historical fiction, horror, romance, and mystery, Dennard creates a roaring—and addictive—gothic world.”
– Publisher’s Weekly
“A wonderfully brisk pace sweeps readers into an intriguing mystery. Eleanor serves as a highly entertaining guide and readers will find themselves settling in among the undead just fine.”
– Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“[In Strange & Ever After]…the author adds dimension to and deepens the characterization of several of the protagonists while exploring the nature of the soul and the human capacity for change…fans of the series will enjoy it immensely.”
– School Library Journal
“A spirited, period piece that ties together a woman’s place during the Victorian era with the adventures that only a zombie tale can bring. Dennard writes in an easy-to-read, conversational style with strong characters that leave you rooting for Eleanor and wishing that you could be there cracking zombie kneecaps right beside her.”
– Children’s Literature
“Set against a backdrop of 19th-century Paris, the ambience [of A Darkness Strange & Lovely] is classic and romantic despite the walking dead roaming the streets. Their presence creates conflict and adds a perfect balance of action.”
– RT Book Reviews
“An emotionally honest, well-earned denouement, [Strange & Ever After] brings this lively historical zombie trilogy to an honorable end.”
– Kirkus Reviews
“This debut novel is quite compelling and features a plot that moves at breakneck speed. The plot is full of action, betrayal, and romance.”
– Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)
“[Something Strange & Deadly] flows immaculately pulling you in and turning pages for you.”
– The Guardian
“[A Darkness Strange & Lovely has] a dark, glittering world, full of unforgettable characters, swashbuckling action, and heart-stopping romance. Susan Dennard’s books now have a permanent place on my All-Time Favorites shelf!”
– Sarah J. Maas, NYT Bestselling Author
“Dennard’s series finale [Strange & Ever After] is a fun and rollicking ride. She pairs a wonderful and immersive landscape with a highly twisty plot that will have fans gasping.”
– RT Book Reviews