Step into a world where history takes a different turn, survival is a test of will, and time itself refuses to follow the rules. In this thought-provoking interview, New York Times bestselling author Ryan Graudin discusses her bold storytelling, the challenges of writing alternate history, and why speculative fiction is a powerful tool to reimagine the past and challenge dominant narratives. From the Nazi-won WWII world of Wolf by Wolf to the high-stakes survival of The Walled City and the time-bending adventure of Invictus, Graudin’s books transport readers into thrilling, immersive worlds. But the journey wasn’t always easy—her novel Wolf by Wolf almost didn’t get published due to its daring premise. An editor even warned her, "Your career will be over if you publish this book." How did she push forward and stay true to her vision?
Born and raised by the sea in Charleston, South Carolina, Ryan Graudin grew up surrounded by fairytales, poetry slams, and the magic of storytelling. A graduate of the College of Charleston with a degree in Creative Writing, she has traveled the world, teaching in South Korea, farming in New Zealand, and hiking through Peru. Now, she writes from a crumbling Victorian house guarded by stone tigers—when she’s not experimenting with sourdough or debating her next tattoo!
visit her website: https://www.ryangraudin.com/