Leigh Bardugo
State: California
Leigh Bardugo is a New York Times bestselling author best known for her immersive fantasy novels set in the Grishaverse, a richly imagined world of magic, politics, and intrigue. Born in Jerusalem and raised in Los Angeles, Bardugo studied English at Yale University and worked in journalism, copywriting, and makeup artistry before publishing her debut novel Shadow and Bone in 2012. The book launched the Grisha Trilogy, which became the foundation for her expansive Grishaverse, later expanded through the Six of Crows duology, King of Scars duology, and companion short stories. Known for her complex world-building and morally gray characters, Bardugo’s work has been adapted into the hit Netflix series Shadow and Bone. She has also found success in adult fantasy with Ninth House and its sequel Hell Bent, a dark academia series steeped in secret societies and the occult. Bardugo’s writing appeals to both young adult and adult audiences, cementing her as a powerhouse in modern fantasy literature.
Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance
Audiences: Adult, All Ages, Young Adult