Emily Thiede's debut novel, This Vicious Grace, thrusts readers into a world where magic can both save and destroy. As the author behind The Last Finestra duology, Thiede brings her distinctive voice to young adult fantasy, weaving tales where high-stakes adventure collides with the complexity of human connection. Her writing resonates with readers who seek strong heroines, vivid worlds, and emotional depth — all wrapped up in a package of thrilling magic and romance.
A storyteller at heart, Emily grew up in both New Jersey and Virginia, where she spent her childhood immersed in books and imagining worlds beyond her own. Her passion for crafting stories was matched only by her love for teaching, which she pursued for several years before diving into full-time writing. This background gives her an innate understanding of character development and emotional nuance, which shines through in her novels.
Drawing on her experience as a mother and educator, Emily brings authenticity to her characters, making them relatable even in the most fantastical of circumstances. In This Vicious Grace, the protagonist faces immense challenges, and readers can't help but feel every triumph and setback along the way. Her ability to balance high fantasy with grounded emotional storytelling has earned her a place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Her work has garnered attention from both readers and critics. This Vicious Grace was named one of the best fantasies of 2022 by BuzzFeed, and the series has been widely praised for its intricate world-building and powerful character arcs. Emily’s books have been translated into multiple languages, allowing her to connect with a growing, global audience.
When she’s not lost in her writing, Emily enjoys hiking through the woods near her home, rescuing kittens, and dabbling in DIY home projects. She is also a devoted advocate for other writers, serving as Vice Chair of the board for Writer House, a nonprofit writing center in central Virginia, and mentoring aspiring authors through programs like Pitch Wars.
Emily Thiede’s books aren’t just for fantasy lovers — they’re for anyone who believes in the power of magic, the resilience of the human spirit, and the possibility of transformation. If you're looking to dive into a world that’s as full of heart as it is of adventure, her stories are waiting for you.
